DIY Tools Must Have

There are some things that every DIY Bride should have. Two of my absolute musts are a hot glue gun and spray paint that matches or compliments your wedding colors.

I'm a big fan of finding decor and making it better. You can always do a quick color change to any item with spray paint. There have also been many times that I have found great table decor then just added a beaded trim or crystals to make it pretty.

Always remember if your using spray paint, to use outside or in a well ventilated space.
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Great Favors

This article I found from Wedding Paper Diva's, &^%technical error for link, is really great, because it highlights the one thing that everyone forgets...keep it simple. We all freak out when it comes to the favor because you don't want a gift that people just throw away. You want something that makes a lasting impression, something that people talk about. I have one suggestion if you are doing something edible. Think about the container. People are more likely to keep something that they can reuse practically.(even if it has your monogram on it) So, if you have decided to do something edible, because lets face it, is practical, then your container should be memorable.

OK, since we are dedicated to practical theory at this website, maybe you go to the fabric store and find fabric that is discounted or even quilting squares(super cheap) and make a little bag with satin ribbon.(all in coordinating colors of you wedding of course) Women can reuse these as jewelry bags to hold delicate jewelry. We would reuse these things because they can be tucked away nicely into a drawer. If you can splurge a satin fabric would be ideal.

Don't have a sewing machine, don't fret. A small bag can be hand sewn if you allow enough time. Don't worry if you don't know how to do hand stitch. Send me an email and I'll be more than happy to guide you through the simple process.

time sensitive

Hello My Faithful Followers

I just have to say that I know I've been regrettably absent from this blog, but the truth is that business has picked up dramatically for me and being the unstoppable one man show that I am, my time has been occupied else where. But don't think that I haven't been thinking about you all the time because I have. And I'm glad to say that I have a slew of new information and links for you that will be coming shortly. ( Thank God For Christmas-literally). I am in desperate for a little break and some much needed R&R. I say R&R but what I really mean is a slow down so that I can focus on some things in need of focusing. Just a teaser of things to come:

-expect to launch website around the first of the year
-Very exciting collaboration with brilliant Chicago Wedding Experts in January!(details to come very very soon on this exciting event, and I would love to see and meet all of you if I could)
-New designs/photo
-expect to launch Etsy store around the first of the year
-Blog update for my discovery of some very talented artists and crafters making some unique items you have to consider for your wedding

Wow! That's a jam packed list now that I look back at it. I hope I haven't set my sights to big! Never! Who am I kidding! I work best under pressure.

I do leave you with this one useful tip.
Are you a bride who has given herself at least a year for planning at this point in your engagement? Are you having a Christmas wedding? Maybe your having a winter wedding? Please take advantage of all of the Christmas decor sales that are going on right now! Think about this. If your wedding is in the winter now is the time to buy any kind of decor to fit your winter theme. For example, what are you going to put on your receiving table besides the guest book and gift box? You can get some gorgeous large hurricanes to accent your gift table. I saw beautiful silver ones at Pottery Barn on sale. I believe Micheals craft store had some large shimmer floral decor on sale. I have seen pearl accents, beads, trim, fabric, and many craft items that can be used for weddings on sale right now!

Here's an idea for a center piece; Large Glass vase(whatever style suits you). I personally like a shallow square vase. ornaments(you can get them now in just about any color)I'm using gold and Ivory and Chartreuse and a mix of fillers. By fillers try feathers. I found feathers in a gorgeous chocolate brown color. Lightly speckle the feathers in very fine gold glitter. Don't use too much or it will be gaudy over kill. Don't use a cheap glitter either. (come on...glitter is not very expensive so just do yourself the favor and get the better kind) If your stuck on what to get Martha Stewart has a great glitter line at Micheals Crafts stores or go to
http://http://shop.marthastewart.com/category/32263250881/1/Crafts-Party-Supplies.htm
Put these items together into your vase and you have a gorgeous center piece with tons of texture. I think over the holidays I'm going to try this one and post pictures.

Today I purchased this amazing gold fabric, super inexpensive because it's the end of the season. I'm hoping that before Christmas I can hem it and use it has a stunning table cloth for my Christmas dinner.

Anyhow, I hope that I have left you with something useful this evening!

Keeping Warm

So, here in the great city of chicago it pretty cold this time of year. I am on the hunt for fashionable yet affordable warm attire for brides getting married in the winter. If its something you made even better. Drop me a line and send me pictures or details and you could be featured here.
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Must See

Attention brides,crafters, and artists. This weekend is the One Of a Kind show at the Chicago Merchandise Mart. This is an absolute must if you have the means to go. I believe tickets are $12. You never know what unique items. you will find that can be incorporated into your wedding. Ill be sure to update my! fabulous finds after the weekend
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