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Beyond the Sea: The budget

4 March 2013

Happy Monday, friends! I’m here with the final post in our wedding series — at least for now :) I wanted to share our budget breakdown, in the hopes that it might be helpful for those of you currently planning.

A little background:
Date of wedding: September 15, 2012
Location: Southeastern Connecticut
Number of guests: 115
Contributors: My parents (43%), John’s parents (33%), John and me (13%), and my grandmother (11%)

em for marvelous wedding budget

I know that pie chart is tricky to see, so here’s the breakdown, from most to least:

33.7% ON CATERING | Includes food, staffing, bar, and tip.

17.4% ON RENTALS | Includes our 32×70′ Sperry tent with string and onion lighting, a catering tent, 15 high top tables, 11 8′ tables, 4 6′ tables, 9 36″ round tables, 2 bar back tables, 45 black chairs, a 16×16 black and white dance floor, four couches, 16 linens of various sizes from La Tavola, 16 basic linens from our local rental company, and a generator. The generator was a last-minute expense (like, the day before the wedding) that pushed this category way up.

9.8% ON PHOTOGRAPHY | Includes Tanja and Tia’s travel but does not include any sort of album.

6.3% ON CINEMATOGRAPHY | Includes a highlight and feature film; Inkspot did not charge us for travel as described here.

5.9% ON LOCATION | Our ceremony venue was free, so this includes use of the O’Neill’s Sea Porch and Sunken Garden.

5.8% ON FLOWERS | Includes 1 bridal bouquet, 4 bridesmaid bouquets, 2 small nosegays for our moms, 2 pin-on corsages for our grandmothers, 8 boutonnieres for the gents, 2 wreaths for the church doors, 21 small to medium centerpieces for the tent, 6 small centerpieces for cocktail hour high tops, and arrangements for the guest book, bar, and gift tablea.

5.4% ON BAND | Includes fee and tip.

4.5% ON GIRL ATTIRE | Includes my gown minus the amount we sold it for, alterations and cleaning post-wedding, my shoes, and half of my veil (I split it with my sister in law!).

2.7% ON HAIR & MAKEUP | Includes hair and makeup for the bride, as well as some subsidizing of hair for 5 others and makeup for 6 others.

2.3% ON STATIONERY | Includes 90 9×18″ custom-designed flat-printed invitations and envelopes, 90 response cards and envelopes, save the dates and envelopes, and postage for all of the above.

2% ON RECEPTION/COCKTAIL HOUR DECOR | Includes the four ottomans and four side tables we purchased from Ikea, all of the silver centerpiece vessels, our cubbies, candles, photo frames, etc.

1.6% ON THE CEREMONY | Includes bell and bow materials, our string trio, travel costs for our pastor, etc.

1.2% ON BOY ATTIRE | Includes John’s tux, tuxedo shirt, dress shoes, suspenders, cuff links, and tailoring.

1% ON DAY-OF COORDINATOR | This was a bit less than usual because Diana is a friend of ours.

.25% ON MISC. DIY PROJECTS | Includes various frames, signage materials, calligraphy ink, stickers for the poppers, etc.

.13% ON OTHER | I actually realized this entire category was made up of ribbon – ha!

Whew! I hope this was helpful! Note that this did not include our wedding bands, gifts, rehearsal dinner items, or our honeymoon or minimoon. I tried to include everything else but certainly could have missed a few things.

wedding-picnic

WHERE WE SAVED:
– I sold my gown post-wedding and recouped more than 50% of the cost. A designer gown would have been out of the question otherwise.
– I borrowed most of my accessories from friends and family or wore things I already owned. Marget and I also split our veil.
– Paying our bar on consumption versus a fixed price per person was a huge savings for us — over 50%.
– Our ceremony spot was so beautiful that we didn’t feel we needed any additional decor beyond the door wreaths.
– We splurged on custom designed invitations, but saved on flat printing versus engraved or letterpress.
– I made most of our signage with materials I already owned instead of paying someone else to do it. I also addressed our save the dates and invitations myself.
– We opted to drive my car instead of rent a vintage one for the day, and I restrained myself from purchasing custom cocktail napkins.
– We played a custom CD at cocktail hour instead of hiring musicians.

WHERE WE SPLURGED:
– A videographer. SO WORTH IT.
– Having a tapas style reception meant our staffing costs were much higher than they would have been over a buffet or sit-down style, but it was the bedrock of the “feel” we were going for.
– A Sperry tent versus a standard frame or pole tent.
– John’s dress shoes were about six times as expensive as mine (ha!) but because they’re dress shoes and not tuxedo shoes, he can wear them to work, church, etc. for years to come.
– We booked a luxe, large hotel room for Friday and Saturday night instead of staying at our nearby homes. The gals used it to get ready on Saturday morning and John and I stayed in it Saturday night.

Those are just a few examples for each category — I’m sure I could list many more.

One last thing I wanted to say: Weddings are my passion, and I’ve had a vision for my own for a long time. We have wonderfully generous parents that were happy to contribute to our special day, but early on I knew there were going to be costs going above and beyond the usual ones that I simply wouldn’t expect them to cover — namely top of the line photography and cinematography. We spent WAY more on capturing our day than most people would have, and it was important to me that John and I helped make up that cost. I started saving in college for our wedding, and I don’t regret it for a second. (Granted, not everyone knows who they’re going to marry at that point, but I did!) If you think you fall into the same category as me, start saving your pennies now! :)

I’d be happy to try and answer questions in the comments!

P.S. If you’d like to compare our percentages to the “average,” check out this link or this link.

6 Comments

Inspiration Board No. 99: Beyond the Sea

27 February 2013

Y’all thought we were done talking about our wedding, but no — I’ve still got a few tricks up my sleeve! Since I’ve shared so many inspiration boards over the years, I think it’s only fitting that I show you my own. I know inspiration usually comes before fruition, but I think it’s kind of neat to see where everything started now that you’ve seen where it ended up.

My vision for our classic garden party seaside wedding…

Em for Marvelous

I would describe our colors as a gray ocean blue, navy, blush pink, softest peach, black and white, and the green of our surroundings (yes, people looked at me like I had two heads when I gave that answer), and our style as classic elegance and tradition with a light heart. One of the hardest parts of making everything come together cohesively was managing the balance between the black and the navy, but in the end, I think it worked out beautifully. The words I tried to keep in mind throughout planning were easy and elegant. I wanted the end experience to feel effortless, but intentional.

The Details:

Tablescape photo by Jonathan Canlas via Snippet & Ink (this is the wedding that inspired my linens!); my favorite cake of all time from my favorite wedding of all time, via Martha Stewart Weddings; Sperry tent flags photo by Cramer Photo via Snippet & Ink

Wine bottle photo by Jonathan Canlas from this wedding (inspired me to work with Magpie Paper Works!); anemone bouquet photo by Stephanie Williams; navy wedding invitation poster by I am Always Hungry via 100 Layer Cake; flowering boxwood bush photo by Katie Stoops from Southern Weddings

Dapper groomsmen photo by A Bryan Photo; bow tie escort cards from Martha Stewart Weddings (these inspired our “belles and beaus” in part); white arrangement photo by Lisa Lefkowitz via Snippet & Ink

Black and white dance floor photo by Abby Jiu via Southern Weddings; dock portrait by Tanja Lippert via Style Me Pretty; tablescape photo by Jonathan Canlas via Snippet & Ink

This inspiration board was a long time coming. I have long admired the ability of photographers like Bryan, Jon, Tanja, and Lisa to capture ease and love in an effortless, classic way, and I’ve long been a fan of the refined and understated editorial viewpoint of Martha Stewart Weddings and Snippet & Ink, and the fun, warmth, and focus on tradition of Southern Weddings. Before getting engaged, I thought it might be hard to sift through the abundance of inspiration available, but in the end, it was pretty easy for us to narrow in on what was right for us.

P.S. Wouldn’t it have been perfect if this inspiration board had been no. 100?? Alas, I came up one short.

4 Comments

Beyond the sea: Reception

26 February 2013

As we drove up the hill from the beach, we could see our guests transitioning from the cocktail hour area to the reception tent in the Sunken Garden of the O’Neill.

eugene o neill tent wedding

As guests approached the tent from the side, they could take a favor, peruse the menu, and/or leave some of their belongings inside the cubbies we had set up, and just inside the tent was a table with our guest book, marriage certificate, and family wedding photos. Let’s take a closer look at all that, shall we?

popper favors

Em for Marvelous

We opted to spend the majority of our “favor money” on a charitable donation to the shelter from which we adopted our beloved kitties. We did set out homemade popper favors filled with Snickers and Starbursts (two of our favorite candies!) as a small token along with a sign explaining our donation. Yes, those are actual watercolor paintings of our cats — we had them made through this Etsy shop a few years ago, and I scanned them for this special card!

oversize menu

Since our reception set-up was a little unusual — what I termed a “strolling small plates” reception — I wanted to give guests an idea of what to expect right off the bat. Our oversize menu did the trick. To make it, I purchased an old frame at the flea market for $5, popped the “art” out and wrapped it in a textured silk fabric to match our linens, painted the frame, popped the backing back in and secured it with my staple gun, then added the hand-lettered menu cards and bow. Not sure why it was positioned behind the tent strapping, but oh well :)

Em for Marvelous

You’ve already heard a bit about our “Quaker” marriage certificate, but I’m happy to say it worked out great! A quick tip: Definitely plan for fewer lines than you have guests, as many of ours signed as a couple, leaving us with half an empty column on our finished poster.

Em for Marvelous

I also loved our guest book. We printed up cards with six different prompts or questions — “What is your favorite memory of us?” “Emily and John are meant for each other because…” “What has been your favorite part of our wedding?” — and guests could fill out as many as they found interesting. I’m planning to compile them in some sort of book or display as soon as I hit upon a good format!

sperry tent

Our tent was filled with high tops, small round tables and chairs, and two lounge set-ups. Our florist used all of the silver containers we had collected to gather garden-y arrangements of my favorite flowers and fruits, including garden roses, anemones, spray roses, lisianthus, hellebores, jasmine vine, peaches, and crab apples.

mint julep centerpiece

Em for Marvelous

tented wedding

calligraphy signage

Since our reception had open seating, we made sure to reserve three tables on the recommendation of our caterer — one for my Mom’s Mom and her friends, one for my Dad’s Mom and her friends, and one for John and me. It was nice to know we had a designated spot we could retreat to, though I think we sat down for about five minutes the entire night!

Alrighty, now for two details that didn’t quite measure up.

Em for Marvelous

Keeping it real here, folks! It was only when the photos came back that I noticed these two little blips, so happily, they didn’t bother me on the day of. On the left, you see the cocktail tables just outside our tent. This was the inspiration, and as you can see, it fell a bit short. On the right, you see the mini boxwood wreaths on the back of our chairs. I loved them, I just wish that knot had been rotated to the back so it wasn’t visible and the two wreaths matched. Y’all probably think I’m NUTS for even noticing and/or mentioning these teensy details, but I think it goes with the territory of my job!

first dance

After our guests were settled in the tent, we made our triumphant entrance to “Ready to Go” by Panic at the Disco (the instrumental part at the beginning). A tip: Make sure you specify title AND artist when giving your song choices to your bandleader or DJ. I didn’t, and we almost had a heavy metal song also titled “Ready to Go” accompany us — yikes!!

happy first dance

black and white dance floor

Photo above by Nancy Ray!

We moved immediately into our first dance, which was to “Beyond the Sea” by Bobby Darin (hence the title of this series). Our first dance cracked me up. John and I talked about taking some lessons in the months leading up to the wedding, but never got around to it. To make matters worse, we were still deciding between two different songs about two weeks out – the other was “I Won’t Give Up” by Jason Mraz. In the end, we chose “Beyond the Sea” largely because it is a standard foxtrot rhythm and much easier to dance to than the Jason Mraz song, which is a very quick waltz. After deciding, we watched several YouTube instructional videos (oh yes we did), and practiced a few times in our living room. And that was it! The hilarious part is that we received compliments on our performance the whole night, with many guests assuming we had taken actual lessons! My theory about first dances is that it’s always better to look like you’re having fun (and actually have fun!) rather than be huffing and puffing and struggling to remember a series of moves.

father of the bride toast

As soon as we exited the dance floor, my Dad took our place to offer an opening toast. He told me he actually wrote it months ahead of time in a stroke of inspiration, and as usual, his brilliant way with words served him well.

happy wedding

Wait staff unveiled the first “course” after he finished — passed one-bite Shepard’s pie mini meals (complete with tiny slices of green bean on top!) and a “trio of tomatoes” station. Other highlights throughout the night included tiny lobster rolls, a trio of fancy mac and cheeses, and a mini “Thanksgiving” meal! We also finally had a chance to hug some beloved people!

Here’s a photo of the three mini meals at our tasting, since we didn’t get great shots of them on the night of:

mini meals

Em for Marvelous

Em for Marvelous

We spaced our other toasts between the courses. John’s best man and one of our dearest friends, Dan, gave the first toast, which, if you recall, was threaded through our highlights film. Needless to say, he did a marvelous job. My two sisters gave a joint toast, and they also did a fabulous job weaving their specialty (bones and ligaments — one is a physical therapist, the other is a physical therapist in training!) into our story. Fun fact: Our bandleader emailed me the week after our wedding to say that our toasts were the best she had ever heard at a wedding! I can’t take any credit for that, but I was impressed!

giving a toast

Em for Marvelous

Ever since my friend Katharine’s wedding, when she spoke so eloquently, I have wanted to take advantage of the opportunity of having all of our loved ones in one room to say a few words. I had my chance (so did John), and I hope I used it well! I concluded by inviting my Dad on to the dance floor for our father daughter dance.

father daughter dance

We chose “Lullaby” by Billy Joel. Billy Joel songs were a huge part of my childhood, and “Lullaby” always tugs at my heartstrings. In fact, I teared up pretty much every time I heard it in the months leading up to the big day, but on that night, I don’t think either of us shed a tear! I guess I used them all up on my walk down the aisle…

bustled wedding gown

military wedding

John and his Mom joined us halfway through the song. I love these photos of them!

Em for Marvelous

After more dancing and eating, we made a brief pause for our last scheduled events of the evening: our cake cutting and slideshow!

Em for Marvelous

Em for Marvelous

As much as I love a traditional white, tiered wedding cake, we went with something a little less grand — but majorly yummy — for our wedding dessert. It was a group effort! Our caterer made mini hot apple cobblers, chocolate cake “shots” with fresh raspberries, apple cider donuts, and mini fruit tarts (John’s favorite). We also served each of our mom’s specialties – chocolate peanut butter balls from mine, and chocolate chunk gingerbread cookies from his. We also served chocolate glazed munchkins from Dunkin’ Donuts as a late-night snack!

homemade wedding cake

Finally, my sister and I made our simple wedding cake — with Funfetti! — so we had something to cut into. I made a garland wreath topper with a little bow on top for a topper, but it never made it to the reception. Though it wasn’t what I was envisioning, the flowers the florist stuck on looked nice, too.

cake cutting

wedding cake cutting

Not sure what’s happening in this photo, but I kind of enjoy it.

funny wedding photo

After that, all there was to do was dance!

Em for Marvelous

parents dancing

Em for Marvelous

dad and grandma

tanja lippert photography

reception dancing

At the end of the night, everyone that was left gathered in a circle on the dance floor for a good old singalong to “American Pie.” Good memories.

end of reception dancing

Photo by Nancy Ray!

sparkler exit

sparkler getaway

And that, my friends, is the story of our wedding. Thank you again for indulging me, especially with today’s super long post. It has been such fun to share our memories with you along with so many of Tanja’s beautiful photos. Much love to you all!

Photographer: Tanja Lippert / Videographer: Inkspot Crow Films / Day-of-Coordinator: Diana Chouinard of Jubilee Events / Reception Venue: The Sunken Garden at the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center / Tent: Sperry Tents / Dance Floor, Chair, Basic Linen, and Catering Rentals: Liberty Rentals / Lounge Furniture Rentals: Rentals Unlimited / Linens: La Tavola Linen / Flowers: Blush Floral Design / Hair and Makeup Artist: Tia Reagan / Catering: A Thyme to Cook / Signage: Em for Marvelous / Boxwood wreaths: Save on Crafts / Ribbon: MJ Trimming / Bride’s Gown: “Brisa” by Christos / Bride’s Earrings: “Toulouse” by Nina / Bride’s Necklace: Blue Nile / Bride’s Veil: Chaviano Couture / / Groom’s Attire: Tuxedo by Tommy Hilfiger from Macy’s / Groom’s Bow Tie: Bows N’ Ties / Groom’s Suspenders: J. Crew

Previously:
Wedding Week
Rehearsal Dinner
Wedding Morning
First Look
Ceremony
Cocktail Hour

17 Comments

Beyond the sea: Cocktail hour

21 February 2013

I planned the time between our ceremony and reception very carefully, because I knew we didn’t have much with which to work. First, we sped off as soon as possible from the church. Philip and Tanja rode in the car with us (John driving!), and MacKenzie and Tia followed in their own cars. Second, we took a slight shortcut to our venue while directing guests to the slightly longer route to buy us a little extra time.

eugene oneill theater center

The goal was for Tanja and Inkspot to have time to record the cocktail hour and reception details in daylight, before they were enjoyed by our guests. While they worked on that, John and I headed down the hill to our pre-selected tree. Our caterer, A Thyme to Cook, assigned us a special friend for the night, Dina, and if we’re being honest, I’m pretty sure that was one of John’s favorite parts of the wedding! He thought it was the coolest thing. Anyway, Dina brought us a picnic basket of goodies and two glasses of something to drink, and we enjoyed the next twenty minutes or so chatting about the day and sampling our cocktail hour snacks. Perfection!

wedding picnic

It was so fun looking up the hill and watching our guests arrive for cocktail hour, too!

eugene o neill theater center wedding

By the way, this was their view out to the ocean. Glorious! I could stare at that every day.

eugene oneill theater view

Our guests were greeted with raspberry lemonade and prosecco with blackberries as they arrived. We offered a limited bar on the porch, and then opened it up to a full bar once under the tent. We paid our bar tab on consumption, and I think this was something that helped us keep our costs down!

Em for Marvelous

Aside from passed pigs in a blanket with violet mustard (trying to class the pigs up a little), the main gustatory attraction at cocktail hour was our Southern Favorites table.

southern favorites

Though born and raised in New England, John and I have spent the past three and a half years in the South, and we wanted to treat our guests to a little Southern comfort. We served biscuits (with our favorite North Carolina blackberry jam!), corn muffins with honey butter, mini pulled pork bites, and Tex Mex deviled eggs.

biscuits

Em for Marvelous

Em for Marvelous

The final addition to our Southern table was mini glasses of Cheerwine. For those of you who are not familiar, Cheerwine is a distinctly North Carolina product that is similar to but not quite like cherry Coke. It does not, in fact, contain alcohol, something that confused many of our Northern guests!

olive branch centerpiece

Em for Marvelous

Yes, the ink blot on the “L” still annoys me :)

As a side note, I loved our olive branch arrangement — a great choice for something like a bar area, where you want a larger arrangement to make an impact. Greenery instead of blooms = money savings.

Once Tanja and Inkspot had finished with the details, they came to collect us for a few more portraits. We had to scurry to catch the remaining daylight, and I mean that literally!

Em for Marvelous

That’s what I call hustling your bustle!

You may be wondering why dear Philip is sitting in the trunk of a car. To expedite things, Tanja and Tia drove us the short distance from our tree to the beach. Philip had planned to come along to film, but seeing as there was no more room in the 4-door car, he began to demur. The dynamic duo of Tanja and Tia, however, insisted that he ride in the car trunk for the short trip (I should have known something like this was going to happen — they are, after all, the infamous chicken suit duo). Once Philip agreed, they took off at an alarming pace down the bumpy dirt road, all of us laughing our heads off. Thankfully, the trip was short and Philip made it in one piece!

beach wedding portrait

I can’t blame Tanja for wanting to catch the light, because it certainly was magical!

tanja lippert

It’s funny how certain photos catch your eye the first time you look through your wedding photos, and other favorites don’t surface until a second or third trip through. The one above was not at all on my radar at first, but now, it’s one of my most beloved.

Now, I’m only sharing this next photo because I love y’all, and I want to make a point.

beach wedding ideas

One of the reasons that I believe Tanja is an artist, and why her photos are so magical, is because she is not afraid to TRY things. And, she works with clients who are willing to try things, too. Not everything she tries works every time, but it’s only when you push the envelope that you sometimes come out on the side of amazing. Sometimes, of course, the trial ends up being a dud, but in my opinion, no duds = no amazing.

All this to say, while the above photo was a bit outside my comfort zone (can you tell I’m more of a smile-y person?), we were game to try and allow Tanja to do her artist thing. She probably hated us a little bit because most of the photos from this pose ended up like the one below, but at least we tried :)

beach wedding photo

September 15th had the softest, pinkest sunset — I think it was chosen especially for me!

sunset portrait

We ended our beach time with a walk along the water, just the two of us. Perfect.

sunset beach portrait

P.S. A tip. I know some people don’t like the idea of plastering their wedding photos all over their walls. If you’re lucky enough to have a photographer who took gorgeous environmental photos, I’d highly recommend them as an alternative! We’re considering enlarging one of these, because they take us back to that moment as much as the ones with us in them do…

connecticut coastline

Em for Marvelous

Photographer: Tanja Lippert / Videographer: Inkspot Crow Films / Day-of-Coordinator: Diana Chouinard of Jubilee Events / Reception Venue: The Sunken Garden at the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center / Tent: Sperry Tents / Dance Floor, Chair, Basic Linen, and Catering Rentals: Liberty Rentals / Lounge Furniture Rentals: Rentals Unlimited / Linens: La Tavola Linen / Flowers: Blush Floral Design / Hair and Makeup Artist: Tia Reagan / Catering: A Thyme to Cook / Signage: Em for Marvelous / Bride’s Gown: “Brisa” by Christos / Bride’s Earrings: “Toulouse” by Nina / Bride’s Necklace: Blue Nile / Bride’s Veil: Chaviano Couture / / Groom’s Attire: Tuxedo by Tommy Hilfiger from Macy’s / Groom’s Bow Tie: Bows N’ Ties / Groom’s Suspenders: J. Crew

Previously:
Wedding Week
Rehearsal Dinner
Wedding Morning
First Look
Ceremony

19 Comments

Beyond the sea: Our ceremony

18 February 2013

us coast guard memorial chapel

This is what the Chapel looked like when we pulled up. What a gorgeous, gorgeous sky! I think we arrived around 4pm for our 4:30 ceremony, and there were already guests outside – yikes! I would have liked to arrive a few minutes earlier (per our schedule!), but we were able to sneak in through a side door, so it was okay.

While we waited downstairs (everyone together), guests were treated to a few surprises upstairs. Ladies were invited to take a bell to ring at the end of the ceremony…

bells at wedding ceremony

…and gents, a boutonniere to pin on for extra festiveness. I made all of the boutonnieres out of velvet ribbon and hand wrote the tags – DIY instructions coming soon!

velvet boutonnieres

Web

I designed our two-sided, single sheet ceremony programs in Illustrator and had them printed through UPrinting.

wreath ceremony programs

We had five helpers at the front of the Chapel — my brother in law, John’s brother in law, our friend, and two of my cousins — and between them, they handed out programs, facilitated the bells and bows, and helped guests to their seats.

Soon enough it was time for us to line up. When I was standing next to my Dad in the narthex, I felt the first flip in my stomach. I got another one when the string trio began to play the first song of the processional (more about our music here).

After the last bridesmaid had begun her walk down the aisle, the doors to the sanctuary closed, and my Dad and I moved into position.

blusher veil

I had specifically asked that the doors not be opened until about fifteen seconds into my song, so that we would hit the top of the aisle at the right point in the music. My emotions started to build, and I couldn’t help smiling, while we waited behind the closed doors. When the doors finally opened, I could hear an audible intake of breath from our guests. (That sounds horribly vain, but it’s true!) I think it was in part because I was wearing a blusher veil, which is so unexpected these days but so me, and my Dad looked stunningly handsome in his dress whites (military uniform).

groom waiting at ceremony

horsehair edge veil

blusher veil inspiration

I had my eyes locked on John’s the entire time we walked down the aisle, but when we reached our guests, I had to start taking deep breaths in and out to try and control the impending flood. Once we got a little closer, I could hear the entire row of bridesmaids and entire row of groomsmen sniffling, and that finally opened the flood gates for me. We all had tears rolling down our faces throughout the beginning of our ceremony, so much so that our pastor had to remind everyone to take deep breaths before he began.

coast guard chapel

After Carl’s welcome, our readers took the stage. You can read more about the selections we chose here. They all did a wonderful job!

coast guard chapel wedding

Besides my grandmothers, and John’s relatives who came from as far away as Taipei and Shanghai, our most special guest was our pastor, Carl. He’s the pastor of our church, and has had such a huge impact on our lives and our life together since we met him two years ago. We were so excited and grateful when he agreed to fly north to lead our ceremony. We were equally as devastated when we found out two months before our wedding that he had been diagnosed with cancer. He had surgery about a month before, and happily, was recovered in time to still make the trip. His presence was one of the most special parts of our entire day – our wedding would have felt entirely different (at least to John and me) had he not been a part of it. His address was perfect.

coast guard academy wedding

The next part of our ceremony was our congregational hymn — “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee.” It was one of my favorite parts! John and I both like to SING hymns, and apparently it made quite the impression on our guests! :)

Em for Marvelous

military wedding

Next were our vows. We chose to recite personal vows as well as the classic vows — you can read more about our decision here! You can also hear a bit of our vows in our highlights film. For our ring exchange, we used these words: John, I give you this ring as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you in the name of God.

wedding vows

The final component of our ceremony was communion. There’s more about our decision to serve it here, but let me say again how glad we were that we did; many guests told us that it was their favorite part of the day. We served our parents first, and then my grandmothers at their seats.

Em for Marvelous

Em for Marvelous

wedding - communion

Em for Marvelous

All that was left at that point was the kiss! Went off without a hitch, and then we were up the aisle as Mr. & Mrs.

coast guard memorial chapel

walking up the aisle

And out onto the steps, where our guests were waiting with ringing silver bells in hand!

tanja lippert photography

And finally into our oh so elegant chariot for the day. It would have been nice to rent a vintage Rolls Royce, but my beloved SUV did just fine when the budget came up short :)

Em for Marvelous

tanja lippert

With cheers and clapping, we were off to the reception!

Web

P.S. I adored the pom poms, courtesy of our bridal party!

Photographer: Tanja Lippert / Videographer: Inkspot Crow Films / Day-of-Coordinator: Diana Chouinard of Jubilee Events / Ceremony Venue: The United States Coast Guard Memorial Chapel / Ceremony Officiant: Rev. Dr. R. Carl Frazier from First United Methodist Church, Cary / Silver Bells: Factory Direct Craft / Velvet Ribbon and Bouquet Trim: M&J Trimming / Flowers: Blush Floral Design / Hair and Makeup Artist: Tia Reagan / Bride’s Gown: “Brisa” by Christos / Bride’s Earrings: “Toulouse” by Nina / Bride’s Necklace: Blue Nile / Bride’s Veil: Chaviano Couture / Bridesmaid Dresses: “2834″ by Dessy / Groom’s Attire: Tuxedo by Tommy Hilfiger from Macy’s / Groom and Groomsmen Bow Ties: Bows N’ Ties / Groom’s Suspenders: J. Crew / Groomsmen Suspenders: The Grunion Run

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Blogroll

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Archives

  • 2013
    • May
      • House search update no. 3: The conclusion
      • Home
      • Happy Mother's Day
      • Tinsel stirrers at a baby shower!
      • May Goals
    • April
      • Inspiration Board No. 101: A Nevis Wedding
      • Pet Nicknames
      • Marvelous Monday: Small Backyards
      • Marvelous Money: Tracking your budget with the envelope system
      • Packing for Nevis!
      • Marvelous Money: Tracking your budget with Google Docs
      • April Goals
    • March
      • Inspiration Board No. 100: Anne of Green Gables
      • Picks for spring
      • House search update no. 2
      • Making Things Happen
      • Marvelous Mondays: Easter Eggs
      • Marvelous Money: How to spend money
      • Beyond the Sea: The budget
      • March Goals
    • February
      • The Birthday Party Project
      • Inspiration Board No. 99: Beyond the Sea
      • Beyond the sea: Reception
      • Beyond the sea: Cocktail hour
      • Beyond the sea: Our ceremony
      • Beyond the sea: First look
      • Beyond the sea: Wedding morning
      • Beyond the sea: Rehearsal dinner
      • Beyond the sea: Final preparations
      • February Goals
    • January
      • House search update
      • Marvelous Money: Building a budget
      • Tinsel stirrers in the shop!
      • Super foods
      • Marvelous Money: Managing Joint Finances
      • Friends of Em + Graham Terhune Photography
      • Board No. 98: Backyard Garden Party Wedding
      • Marvelous Money: The emergency fund
      • Marvelous Mondays: Bedrooms with wood plank walls
      • Marvelous Money: What's your story?
      • Target Threshold Spring Collection
      • Welcome back to the Bachelor
      • January Goals
      • Daily Goals 2013
  • 2012
    • December
      • 2012: A year in review
      • Merry Christmas!
      • Christmas cards 2012
      • Board No. 97: Blue and White Christmas
      • Em loves you: A Christmas giveaway
      • Gifts for Em
      • Em for Marvelous Christmas playlist 2012
      • 2012 Em for Marvelous Gift Guide: Neutral Gifts
      • 2012 Em for Marvelous Gift Guide: Bright Gifts
    • November
      • Blessed to be a blessing: acts of kindness for Christmas
      • Felt mistletoe
      • Christmas cupcake flags in the shop!
      • Marvelous mondays: wreaths
      • Happy Thanksgiving!
      • Gold party outfit
      • Crafting our ceremony: serving communion
      • Our wedding film from Inkspot Crow
      • Marvelous mondays: kitchen banquettes
      • Crafting our ceremony: our vows
      • Modern Christmas newsletter
      • Minted Christmas Cards
      • Crafting our ceremony: music
    • October
      • Inspiration Board No. 96: Falling for Dahlias
      • Christmas trees in baskets
      • Hiking in Asheville
      • Antiquing in Asheville
      • Eating in Asheville
      • Pumpkin chocolate chip muffins
      • Gilded pumpkins!
      • Crafting our ceremony: readings
      • Marvelous mondays: caramel apples
      • Pure Barre
      • Advice for first time home buyers
      • Marvelous mondays: gilded pumpkins
      • The hunt is over: Nitsa's
      • On the hunt: David's Bridal
      • On the hunt: The White Dress by the Shore
      • Marvelous mondays: black stair railings
    • September
      • On the hunt: Maddison Row
      • On the hunt: inspiration
      • Fall to do list
      • Marvelous mondays: built-in bunks for four
      • New beginnings
      • Wedding road trip!
      • Wedding planning update: 9 days to go
      • Our wedding registry
      • A good weekend
    • August
      • Wedding planning update: 16 days to go
      • Wedding planning update: 24 days to go
      • A picnic bridal shower
      • Rehearsal dinner outfit
      • Wedding planning update: 1 month to go
      • Favorite group portraits
      • Our wedding invitations, part two
      • Our wedding invitations, part one
      • Invitations out of the house!
      • Invitations in the house!
    • July
      • Dreams do come true
      • Paloma's Nest Ring Bearer Bowl
      • Ann Taylor tops
      • Seasonal Home of Gales Ferry
      • Wedding planning update: 2 months to go
      • Seth and Marget are getting married!
      • Oilcloth project possibilities
      • Happy Fourth of July!
      • June Instagram
    • June
      • Accessories Week: Comb + Veil
      • Accessories Week: Earrings + Clutch
      • Accessories Week: Bracelet + Necklace
      • Classic Groom Essentials
      • Summer to do list
      • A Kate Spade Bridal Shower
      • Wedding planning update: 3 months to go
      • Paper Picks 2012: One Canoe Two
      • Paper Picks 2012: Belle & Union
      • Paper Picks 2012: Alee & Press
      • Paper Picks 2012: Figs & Ginger
      • Paper Picks 2012: Mr. Boddington's Studio
      • Our engagement photos!
      • Cupcake flags + donuts!
    • May
      • Lot 190 + blue doors
      • Wedding weekend welcome packs
      • Wedding planning update: 3+ months to go
      • Busy week ahead!
      • Quaker marriage certificate
      • Inn at Palmetto Bluff: Treehouse
      • Accessorizing
      • Backyard bridal shower
      • Lowcountry Produce
      • Hunting Island State Park
      • 101 in 1001: May 2012
      • City Loft Hotel in Beaufort, SC
    • April
      • Old Sheldon Church Ruins
      • Bridesmaid dress recap
      • Wedding planning update: 4+ months to go
      • Engagement photos!
      • The wedding morning, part three
      • Vintage silver at the reception
      • Drink more water
      • Tried and true recipes
      • Ways to Personalize a Groom's Formal Look
      • Tuxedo junction
      • Flea market find: floral frogs
      • A Kate Spade Bridal Shower: The Invitations!
      • A Kate Spade Bridal Shower: Inspiration
      • Tips for hiring destination wedding vendors
    • March
      • Black and white dance floors
      • Inspiration Board No. 95: Pastel Spring
      • Wedding planning update: 5+ months to go!
      • Method spring soaps
      • Spring to do list
      • A dress for the mother of the bride!
      • Registering for china
      • Sweet watercolor paintings
      • (Almost) Spring weekend
      • Black and White Cheesecake Brownies
      • Adorably Small Houses
      • Kate Spade Sample Sale
      • Valentine's Day Party Invitations
      • 101 in 1001: March 2012
      • Spring Fling
    • February
      • Here's to 25
      • Colorful Cocktail Napkins
      • Wedding planning update: 6+ months to go!
      • Mini desserts
      • Julie & Julia Dinner Party
      • How to Make a Wedding Website Using Blogger
      • Happy Valentine's Day!
      • Flea Market Finds
      • A creative groomsman "proposal"
      • Our videographer + budget realities
      • Easy Valentine's Day DIY
      • A slightly military wedding ceremony
      • Our save the dates!
      • 101 in 1001: February 2012
    • January
      • Wedding shoes: update!
      • The wedding morning, part two
      • Wedding planning update: 7+ months to go!
      • Yard sale chairs remade!
      • Recycled art!
      • Garden bouquet inspiration
      • Bouquet wrap inspiration
      • A Trip to M&J Trimming
      • Bridesmaid Dresses!
      • Our wedding photographer: Tanja Lippert!
      • Player piano
      • Inspiration Board No. 94: Mulberries in Hawaii
      • Wedding shoes!
      • Em for Gems
      • Old Lucketts Store + silver update
      • 2012 Goals
      • Scenes from the holidays
  • 2011
    • December
      • Merry Christmas!
      • Christmas in the apartment
      • Our Christmas cards!
      • Gift Wrapping Inspiration
      • Inspiration Board No. 93: New Tartan
      • Em for Minted: Giveaway winner!
      • Inspiration Board No. 92: Candy-Colored Christmas
      • Gifts for Em
      • EFM Gift Guide 2011: Neutrals + Metallics
      • EFM Gift Guide 2011: Colorful
      • EFM Gift Guide 2011: Cool Tones
      • EFM Gift Guide 2011: Brights
      • Giveaway: Em for Minted!
      • Welcome to Em for Marvelous!
      • Christmas tartan
      • Wreaths
    • November
      • Watercolor letterpress calendar
      • Vintage state towels
      • Peppermint drink stirrers in the shop!
      • Happy Thanksgiving!
      • The perfect cardigan
      • Thanksgiving dinner inspiration
      • More silver for the reception!
      • Cayman Islands
      • The wedding morning
      • Sperry tents
      • Faux fur fuzzies
      • Eno River fall foliage
      • 101 in 1001: November 2011
    • October
      • Pumpkin chocolate chip muffins
      • Steve Madden flats
      • Candlelit
      • Wedding planning update: 10+ months to go
      • Hostess gift idea!
      • Minted save the date options
      • Rainbow bookshelf
      • Ringing the bell
      • Makeup bags
      • charleston: angel oak & middleton plantation
      • charleston: folly beach & kayaking
      • Haw River rock hop
      • Green Knob Trail
      • Edward Hopper stamps
      • Pink in the park
      • 101 in 1001: October 2011
    • September
      • Camping this weekend!
      • Bacon + avocado grilled cheese
      • Embroidering
      • Kendra Scott earrings
      • Wedding planning update: 11+ months to go
      • Fall to do list
      • Summer to do list: update!
      • Venue reveal: our reception site!
      • Venue reveal: our ceremony site!
      • Wedding prep extravaganza!
      • The great venue search (part two)
      • The great venue search (part one)
      • Berry wedding ideas
      • Polka dot gift bags
      • Treehouse Point
      • Mini food at weddings, part II
      • Rope bracelets
      • Charleston: Video!
      • Charleston: French Quarter + Battery
      • Charleston: Eats
    • August
      • Charleston: Folly Beach + Kayaking
      • Charleston: Angel Oak + Middleton Plantation
      • Back Porch Music at the American Tobacco Campus
      • Wedding planning update: 12+ months out
      • Minted business cards!
      • Book baby shower
      • Flea market success!
      • Flag escort cards in action!
      • Back from Charleston!
      • Charleston
      • Black Bean Mexican Pizza
      • Summer wedding dress
      • 101 in 1001: August 2011
    • July
      • All time favorites: M and C
      • All time favorites: Lauren and Joe
      • Wedding planning update: 12+ months out
      • All time favorites: Caroline and Clark
      • All time favorites: Liz and Chris
      • All time favorites: Dabney and Rob
      • All time favorites: Erin and Paul
      • All time favorites: Lily and John
      • Mini food at weddings
      • My engagement ring!
      • Weekend in Beaufort
      • You will probably want to watch this video...
      • Happy Fourth!
      • 101 in 1001: July 2011
    • June
      • Drink stirrers in action!
      • Happy anniversary, Mom and Dad
      • Deep dish chocolate chip cookies
      • Poppers
      • Board No. 91: Green and Cafe Au Lait
      • Guest bedroom style
      • Fourth of July drink stirrers!
      • Apartment garden: June
      • Flea market find: faux bamboo table
      • Bathroom plans!
      • 101 in 1001: June 2011
      • Veronica Sheaffer swiss dot gowns
      • Market Imports in Raleigh
    • May
      • Outdoor summer movies
      • BHG winners!
      • Happy Memorial Day!
      • BHG giveaway reminder + recipes
      • Seersucker bikinis
      • Pedestal sink bathroom
      • Apartment garden: baby plants
      • Better Homes & Gardens site redesign + giveaway!
      • National Stationery Show
      • Festive brunch ideas
      • Board No. 90: Daybreak
      • Ann Taylor Loft Petites
      • One-piece swimsuit round up
      • 101 in 1001: May 2011
      • Summer to do list
    • April
      • Blue bedrooms
      • Better Homes & Gardens May Issue
      • Board No. 89: Royal Wedding Sapphire
      • Easter weekend!
      • Formal accessories on a budget
      • Vintage Village
      • Swiss dot wedding fashion
      • Nautical bags
      • Boden spring/summer collection
      • Keds
      • Cherry blossom weekend!
      • 101 in 1001: April 2011
    • March
      • Swell towels
      • Cherry blossom wedding ideas
      • Board No. 88: Soft cherry blossoms
      • H&M pillows
      • On being green
      • Board No. 87: Plum and evergreen for Caroline
      • I stop writing the poem
      • Happy St. Patrick's Day!
      • P&P packaging
      • Making an inspiration board
      • Bridal shower tin cans
      • Board No. 86: Beyond the sky blue sea
      • Anthro headbands
      • Pierrepont Hicks Spring
      • My whole heart
      • 101 in 1001: March 2011
    • February
      • Happy birthday to me!
      • Janet Hill Studio
      • Bridesmaid dresses
      • Long distance maps
      • Apartment garden: the seedlings!
      • Winter travels: the Old Edwards Inn
      • Board No. 85: My Summer Valentine
      • Happy Valentine's Day weekend!
      • From Song of the Open Road
      • Polka dot dress, version two!
      • Anthro Color-Dipped Dress
      • 101 in 1001: February 2011
    • January
      • Board No. 84: Bold Yellow
      • To paint or not to paint?
      • Shower curtain update
      • Happy Monday!
      • Polka dot dress
      • TOMS update
      • P&P valentines!
      • Board No. 83: The Most Delicate of Delicates
      • Colorful dresses
      • Robert Allen Khandar fabric for sale!
      • Better Homes and Gardens January issue
      • John Robshaw Textiles
      • New York, New York!
      • Pink + gold wedding invitations
      • 101 in 1001: January 2011
      • 101 in 1001, Vol. II
  • 2010
    • December
      • Happy New Year's Eve!
      • A very merry Christmas to you!
      • Black Bean Soup with Cumin and Jalapeno
      • Board No. 82: Pinecones and Sage
      • Nutcracker tonight + 101 reminder!
      • Christmas CD Swap Wrap Up!
      • Modern Christmas from JL Designs
      • Black and white Christmas
      • Comfy winter bedroom
      • Christmas cards!
      • Board No. 81: Softly Shining Christmas
      • P&P Gift Guide 2010: Metallic
      • P&P Gift Guide 2010: Neutrals
      • P&P Gift Guide 2010: Cool
      • P&P Gift Guide 2010: Warm
      • Board No. 80: All that Glitters is Gold
      • Modcloth for New Year's Eve
      • 20x200 on One Kings Lane
      • Happy December!
    • November
      • Colorful blocks
      • Thanksgiving Recap
      • Happy Thanksgiving!
      • Sycamore Street Press Announcement
      • Recent project
      • Board No. 79: Jewel Tone Thanksgiving
      • Christmas CD Swap!
      • Toms shoes
      • Possible Curtain Fabric
      • Shutterfly Holiday Cards
      • Thanksgiving table inspiration
      • Inspiration Board No. 78: Fall Figs
      • In which I consider buying a leopard jacket
      • Out to Dinner: The Grove Park Inn
      • Gifted Magazine
      • Happy November!
    • October
      • The Middle Daughter
      • Blues + natural texture
      • Minted Holiday Cards
      • Tree trunk side tables
      • Frye Boots
      • Applique wedding dress
      • Someone please have a baby so I can buy you one of these
      • Toast & Laurel
      • 101 in 1001: Favorites!
      • 101 in 1001: Recap, Part III
      • 101 in 1001: Recap, Part II
      • 101 in 1001: Recap, Part I
      • Board No. 77: Rich Fall
      • Weekend Project: Closet Cleanup
      • Nate Berkus
      • Cool and classic cocktail party
      • Kitchen ferns
      • Basil centerpiece
      • Sweet Potato Harvest
    • September
      • Navy and Yellow Bunting
      • Gorgeous recipe styling
      • Fall Fashion Week: J. Crew
      • Fall Fashion Week: Old Navy
      • Fall Fashion Week: LOFT
      • Fall Fashion Week: Land's End Canvas
      • Dark August
      • Breakfast Jewelry
      • The Ribbonerie
      • Out to Dinner: Vin Rouge
      • Monday, Monday
      • Inspiration Board No. 76: Black and White Summer
      • Happy weekend!
      • Happy September!
    • August
      • Kate + Cormac DIY: Ribbon Drink Stirrers
      • Shower curtains
      • Blue and white decor
      • Peach and Pearl in Brides!
      • Addison's Vision
      • Peony pave posts
      • Rubber lace coasters
    • July
      • Neiman picks under $100
      • New in the shop!
      • Front Door Decoration
      • Board No. 75: Spring Green Garden Party
      • Summer
      • Casual Interiors
      • Welcome to Maine!
      • Summer camp
      • Lewis & Sheron Fabrics
      • Weekend Project: Handmade Wedding Signs
      • Bright gingham shorts
      • Board No. 74: Bold Blue and Red Picnic
      • Happy Fourth!
      • Happy July!
    • June
      • Buttermilk and friends
      • Dream Home: Hideaways + Nooks
      • K + C wedding invitation
      • Emersonmade Sneak Peak
      • Board No. 73: Daisy Blue
      • Happy weekend!
      • Les petites douceurs
      • Good Bones Great Pieces
      • How to find fun things to do!
      • i love you much(most beautiful darling)
      • Oriental rugs in interesting places
      • Kate's alphabet bridal shower
      • Friend ship
      • Board No. 72: Pomegranate + Plum
      • Gilded wood blocks
      • Alligator stationery
      • 101 in 1001: June 2010
      • Today I love...
    • May
      • Alphabet poster round-up
      • Dream Home: Outdoor living spaces
      • Miyuki Sakai
      • Favorite fabric sources
      • Honeysuckle perfume
      • Board No. 71: Hamptons Pool Party
      • Happy weekend!
      • Daybreak
      • Summer dresses
      • Dream Home: Exposed beams, open feel
      • Sailor's knot bracelet, v. 2
      • Board No. 70: Red and orange ranunculus
      • On Turning Ten
      • The non-toss ceremony exit
      • Netflix queue
      • Zebra shorts
      • Porcelain farmer's market containers
      • Bulletin board wall
    • April
      • A Blessing
      • Vintage beach engagement session + style board
      • Dream Home: Snuggly Beds
      • My new favorite...
      • Lobstah
      • Blackberries for Amelia
      • Alphabet bridal shower invitations
      • New in the shop!
      • Striped paper straws
      • Striped paper straws
      • Board No. 69: Fruit and Flowers
      • Coda
      • New bike
      • Bunting invite + bunting cake
      • Dream Home: Kitchen Island
      • Indian Summer at Lands End
      • DIY: Paper Dogwood Flowers
      • Dream Home: Walls of Books
      • Board No. 68: Black and Red Gingham
      • Box of sunshine
      • Hummingbird
      • 101 in 1001: April, 2010
    • March
      • Dream Home: Filled with light
      • Mini bunting
      • Dream Home: Deep Window Seats
      • Save that date!
      • Board No. 67: How Does Your Garden Green?
      • New looks from old standbys
      • Board No. 66: Zinc and Deep Royal
      • My new favorite...
      • Orange you glad
      • Bunting 101: Help!
      • Vintage silverware garden markers
      • And my Oscar goes to...
      • Oscar Party Prep
      • Bamboo for you (and me)
      • 101 in 1001: March, 2010
    • February
      • DIY Calligraphy
      • Bunting cards
      • Spring dresses
      • Persimmon & Pink
      • Valentines: A Recap
      • Campfire votive
      • Board No. 65: Stone Fruits, Baking Tarts
      • Valentines: Hearts in nature
      • Task lamps
      • Valentines: Knottedrush
      • Dinghy Driving
      • John Takes a Hike!
      • Board No. 64: Cassie's Sunburnt October
      • Valentines: Catbird
      • Valentines: Rifle Paper Co
      • Valentines: Bird & Banner
      • Valentines: Woven paper hearts
      • 101 in 1001: February, 2010
      • Board No. 63: Woodsy Lodge
    • January
      • Bright + cheery childrens' bedroom
      • P&P Valentines on Etsy!
      • Pie bar
      • I'm headed to New York!
      • Quilled marriage certificate
      • Go Jane
      • Enter Maribel
      • Fourth&Folded
      • J. Crew complaints no more?
      • Board No. 62: Pink and Blue and Gold Tinsel
      • Pottery Barn to the rescue!
      • Recipe storage
      • Bedroom Inspiration, v. 341
      • Dress like a cupcake
      • 101 in 1001: January, 2010
  • 2009
    • December
      • Merry, Merry Christmas... one day early!
      • P&P Christmas, Day 7: Movies
      • Monday, Monday + Winter
      • P&P Christmas, Day 6: Our decor!
      • Lovely Love Shoot
      • P&P Christmas, Day 5: My favorite things
      • Board No. 61: Cherry and Sky Holidays
      • Monday, Monday + One Horse Open Sleigh
      • P&P Christmas, Day 4: My Cards, Part I
      • Holly Farrell
      • P&P Christmas, Day 3: Gift Wrap Inspiration
      • More Modcloth
      • The hunt for the bridesmaid dress is on!
      • Board No. 60: Aqua and Green Holidays
      • P&P Christmas, Day 2: Wreaths
      • Board No. 59: Eucalyptus, Cream, and Coral
    • November
      • P&P Christmas: Playlists
      • The 12 Days of Peach & Pearl Christmas!
      • Happy Thanksgiving!
      • Amy Atlas Thanksgiving
      • NieNie
      • Board No. 5: Blue and Orange Thanksgiving
      • Board No. 58: Hello Navy and Yellow!
      • Board No. 57: Pumped Up Sherbet
      • Board No. 56: Primary Picnic
      • Board No. 55: Nautical Knots
      • Reader Mail: Sweater Dresses
      • Thanksgiving table
      • Board No. 54: Blooming Navy
      • Monday, Monday + Heart
      • Party time! My dream look
      • Party time! The Menswear Look
      • Party time! The Runner-Up
      • Apple crate side table
      • Board No. 53: Gilded Halloween
      • Monday, Monday + Pumpkins
    • October
      • Happy Halloween!
      • DIY Friday: Dictionary Art
      • Alterna-Bedding
      • Dreamy
      • Veggie Week
      • Falling for fall
      • Wedding weekend brunch: the recipes
      • Wedding weekend brunch
      • Board No. 52: Bond + Baby's Breath
      • Monday, Monday + Leaf Portrait
      • City Guides + Weekend Plans
      • DIY Friday: Painted Furniture
      • Moving Announcements
      • Sources
      • My new favorite...
      • Board No. 51: Blue and Orange for Catherine
      • Monday, Monday + A Writing Desk
      • Mulled Cider
      • Brunch Inspirations
      • My new favorite...
      • Joy + Amy at home
      • Board No. 50: Prizewinning Party
      • Monday, Monday + Vintage Fall
      • DIY Friday: Brunch invitations!
      • Fall Travels: Blue Ridge Parkway
      • My new favorite...
    • September
      • Fall Travels: Serenbe
      • Fall Wreaths
      • Board No. 49: Wild Roses
      • Monday, Monday + White
      • My new favorite...
      • Inkwells
      • Red carpet style
      • Monday, Monday + Hydrangeas
      • DIY Saturday: Upholstered Headboard
      • Flea Market Finds
      • Flea Market
      • Board No. 48: Bluebell and Buttercream
      • Monday, Monday + A Swing
      • DIY Friday: Monogrammed Tote Bag
      • Haven in Paris
      • Upcycled Birthday Card
      • Anthropologie for a Wedding
      • Tuesday, Tuesday + The Beach
      • DIY Friday: Nautical Porch Garland
      • Audrey
      • Riding boots
      • crewcuts
      • Driftwood Hearts
    • August
      • Board No. 47: A Formal Affair
      • Monday, Monday + RH in Paris
      • Happy Weekend + Chalkboard Paint
      • Summer Travels: Seaside, FL
      • My NEW new favorite...
      • Back to school II
      • Back to school
      • Board No. 46: Alice in Wonderland
      • Happy Weekend + Handmade Soap
      • Bake It Pretty
      • My new favorite...
      • Latte Bowls
      • Paint Chip Placecards
      • Be My Guest
      • Board No. 45: Teal Appeal
      • Monday, Monday + Porches
      • My new favorite...
      • Julie & Julia
      • Board No. 44: Orange Sherbet
      • We've Moved!
      • My new favorite...
      • Summer Travels: Island Shower
      • Stars in Residence
      • Summer Travels: Wildflowers
      • Summer Travels: Cherry Republic
      • Board No. 43: White Elephant
      • Monday, Monday + A Castle
    • July
      • Happy Weekend + Cotton Candy
      • Summer Travels: Amish Country, Ohio
      • Board No. 42: Amber in Connecticut
      • Board No. 41: Amber on the Vineyard
      • Board No. 40: Amber in the Caribbean
      • Thursday, Thursday + A Survey
      • Uniqlo Neutrals
      • Two Projects
      • Bear with me...
      • Ikea + victory
      • J. Press
      • Happy Tape
      • Kris + Matt: A Jack + Jill Shower
      • Board No. 39: Hand in Hand at the Edge of the Sand
      • Monday, Monday + I'm Back!
      • Monday, Monday + Parents
      • Rubie Green
      • Praia Piquinia
    • June
      • Board No. 38: Cherries Jubilee
      • Monday, Monday + Road Trip
      • Happy Weekend + Polas
      • Have to have Hable
      • My new favorite...
      • Venue Scout: Kirkwood Gardens
      • Board No. 37: One Morning in Maine
      • Happy Weekend!
      • Paperwink
      • Venue Scout: Church Landing at Mill Falls
      • Board No. 36: Lemon Drop Martini
      • Monday, Monday + Head in the Clouds
      • Happy Weekend + Kitchens
      • Peonies
      • My new favorite...
      • Felix Doolittle
      • Board No. 35: Romance in the Garden
      • Currently Coveting...
      • Through Her Eyes
      • Announcements
      • Swayspace
      • Board No. 34: Roman Holiday
    • May
      • The Last Emperor
      • Lizzie's Bridal Shower
      • Alice Temperley Camps
      • Board No. 33: Old Glory
      • Monday, Monday + Memorial Day
      • Happy Weekend + 2009
      • My new favorite...
      • Interview Outfit
      • Vintage Engagement Shoot
      • Rosecliff: The Party!
      • Board No. 32: Fiesta Afternoon
      • Monday, Monday + Teacups
      • Happy Weekend + Adirondack Chairs
      • My new favorite...
      • J. Crew Inspiration
      • Rosecliff: The Accessories
      • Board No. 31: Lilacs in Spring
      • Monday, Monday + Lilacs
      • Happy Weekend + Cousins!
      • Schooled
      • Board No. 30: Bread and Olive Oil
      • The Island
      • Technical Difficulties
      • Happy Weekend + Bookshelves
    • April
      • DIY Swizzle Sticks
      • House Stalking No. 3
      • Rosecliff: The Face
      • Skinny Minnie, v. 2
      • Board No. 29: Cowboy Take Me Away
      • Monday, Monday + the Seashore
      • Happy Weekend + Buds
      • Reader Mail: Rugs + Curtains
      • Framed
      • Rosecliff: The Jewelry
      • Board No. 28: Build Me Up, Buttercup
      • Monday, Monday + Bicycles
      • Happy Weekend + Golf
      • Egg Press Sample Sale
      • Today I love...
      • Rosecliff: The Hair
      • Board No. 27: Kid Gloves
      • Monday, Monday
      • Happy Weekend + Smooch
      • Porsche & Larry
      • DIY Embellished Cards + Lined Envelopes
      • Reader Mail: Leather & Metallic Sandals
      • Rosecliff: The Dress
      • My new favorite...
      • Board No. 26: Opulent Pink and Navy
      • Monday, Monday
      • Happy Weekend + Radishes
      • Today I Love Silhouettes (In My Hand)
      • Today I Love Silhouettes (In Action)
      • Today I Love Silhouettes (In Print)
    • March
      • Rosecliff: Location
      • Guest post on Rock 'n Roll Bride
      • Board No. 25: Gold Rush
      • Monday, Monday + The Sun
      • Potting Puttering
      • Mine!
      • Down on the farm
      • Board No. 24: Spring Fling
      • Poster print winner!
      • Monday, Monday + Vanities
      • Giveaway Reminder: Win a poster print!
      • Happy Weekend + Cumberland Island
      • My new favorite...
      • Well Wed Cape Cod: Amelia Rose
      • Well Wed Cape Cod
      • Board No. 23: Luck of the Irish
      • Poster Print Giveaway!
      • Monday, Monday + Georgia
      • Happy Weekend!
      • Board No. 22: Sweet Cream
      • Board No. 21: Orange Pop
      • Board No. 20: Rainbow Sherbet
      • Happy Weekend!
      • A Banner Day
      • See Sea Lorraine Dress
      • Custom Inspiration Boards!
      • Board No. 19: Tuscany in Texas
      • Monday, Monday
    • February
      • Happy Weekend!
      • A Shower By Any Other Name...
      • Handle & Spout
      • My new favorite...
      • Board No. 18: Classic Summer Navy
      • Monday, Monday
      • Happy Weekend!
      • Please, Mr. Postman
      • Today I Love...
      • From Me to Yoo
      • Short Dress Brides
      • Board No. 17: St. Valentine's
      • Monday, Monday
      • Bow Wow
      • Olive You
      • My new favorite...
      • DIY Daisy Wreath
      • Board No. 16: Blackberry Black Tie
      • Happy Weekend + A Truck Portrait
      • Skinny Minnie
      • Valentine's Day Chocolate DIY
      • Chocolate Raspberry Tea Cakes
      • Board No. 15: Cream and Sugar, Please
    • January
      • Happy Weekend!
      • My new favorite...
      • DIY Hair Flower
      • Casablanca
      • Vote For Me!
      • Board No. 14: Style Me Pretty Vineyard
      • Happy Weekend!
      • Vines, Light Bulbs, and Cardboard: Oh My!
      • DIY Wine Charms
      • Board No. 13: Dainty Brunch
      • Happy Weekend + Lemonade
      • House of Telsa
      • Soft Neutrals
      • Organizing Bathroom Drawers
      • Board No. 12: Daisy Chain
      • Happy Weekend!
      • My new favorite...
      • Creativity Headquarters
      • My new favorite...
      • Board No. 11: Willow Ware
      • Happy Weekend + Ruffles
      • The 101 in 1001 Book
      • 101 in 1001
  • 2008
    • December
      • A Night at the Ball
      • Martha's Butterscotch-Pecan Cake
      • DIY Bell Chandelier
      • Board No. 10: Pop the Bubbly!
      • Happy Christmas Eve!
      • Board #9: Merry, Merry Christmas
      • Happy Weekend!
      • Last Minute Gift Idea!
      • Molten Chocolate Babycakes
      • Going to the Ballet
      • Board #8: Elegant Evergreens
      • Happy Friday!
      • Put your stamp on it
      • Inspiration Board #7: Blue Christmas
      • Happy Friday!
      • Beach Dwelling
      • Ruffle Cake Stand
      • This Just In...
      • Displaying Holiday Cards
      • Inspiration Board #6: Pinecones and Chocolate
    • November
      • Happy Thanksgiving!
      • My new favorite...
      • A Little Southern Wedding Love
      • Inspiration Board #5: Blue and Orange Thanksgiving
      • S'mores Y'all
      • A Dreamy 99 Cents
      • It's almost 2009!
      • Happy Friday!
      • My new favorite...
      • Etiquette Dinner
      • Happy Weekend + A French Tree House
      • Inspiration Board #4: Teal, Yellow, and Black
      • Inspiration Board #3: Punch, Blush, and Green
      • Blue Hill Reserve
      • Vote!
      • Patrick Dougherty
    • October
      • My new favorite...
      • Jenna Lyons House Tour
      • Inspiration Board #2: Green Apples
      • Pink and green Bird Ornament Set in the shop!
      • New Garland Cards in the shop!
      • Oh, My Deer!
      • Just Peachy
      • Lazy Sunday
      • New Cupcake Cards in the shop!
      • Butterfly Weekend
      • House Stalking #2
      • The Duchess = Eye Candy
      • Fall Fashion: Current J. Crew Favorites
    • September
      • Fall Fashion: J. Crew
      • Cool Hand Luke
      • Have a relaxing weekend!
      • That's what she said...

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