Summer Style Signature Drinks

Are you looking for a unique drink to serve as your signature drink? Then here is a list of drink ideas that will would be perfect!

Honey I Dew

Fill an ice-filled shaker with 3 oz. light rum, juice from 1 lime, and 3 oz. liquid honey (a blend of equal parts honey and water). Shake and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with one melon-baller scoop of honeydew and a ball of cantaloupe skewered on a toothpick.

honey I do

 

Lemon Meringue Cocktail
Beware: It’s easy to get pie-eyed with this citrusy confection of a cocktail.
– 2 oz. Boru Citrus Flavored Vodka
– 1 oz. Pallini Limoncello
– 1 oz. simple syrup
– 1 oz. half-and-half, chilled
– Whipped cream; peeled and minced lemon zest (for garnish)
To make simple syrup, bring 2 cups of sugar and 1 cup of water to a boil. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove from heat. Let cool to room

lemon

Frozen Margarita

2 tsp coarse salt
1 lime wedge
3 oz white tequila
1 oz triple sec
2 oz lime juice
1 cup crushed ice

Place salt in a saucer. Rub rim of a cocktail glass with lime wedge and dip glass into salt to coat rim thoroughly, reserve lime. Pour tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and crushed ice into a blender. Blend well at high speed. Pour into a cocktail glass.

margarita

Strawberry Watermelon Mojito

It was mint to be: a sunny drink filled with a summer favorite-and no seeds.
– 1½ oz. Smirnoff Strawberry Vodka
– ½ oz. fresh lime juice
– ½ oz. mint-infused simple syrup
– 1 cup fresh seedless watermelon, cubed and chilled
– 1 bunch fresh mint leaves
– Club soda

To make mint syrup, bring 2 cups of sugar and 1 cup of water to a boil. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove from heat and add 8 to 10 mint leaves. Let cool for 30 minutes. Strain. Combine vodka, lime juice, simple syrup, ½ cup of watermelon and about 10 mint leaves in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake for 10 seconds. Strain into a glass with ice and remaining watermelon. Top with club soda. Garnish with additional mint leaf.

moito

Source: www.brides.com

10 Cent DIY Card Holders

Cardholders can take a big chunk of your wedding budget, especially if you need one for every seat. Most places want about $2 each for a cardholder. Well, now you can do it yourself and create an elegant holder for under 10 cents! All you have to do is repurpose a traditional tea light. Most stores sell bags of 100 for about a dollar. Check out your local dollar store or discount department stores for the best deals. This idea will also work to display pictures at your wedding. 

Step 1:

First, you will need a traditional tea light candle. Keep in mind that you will need a tea light that is in the metal container. The plastic containers will not work. Remove the candle from the container by pulling the candle out by the wick.

candle 1

Step 2:

Next, you will need to take a pair of tin snips and cut the metal holder of the candle. Make a cut from the top to the bottom on each side. Make sure the sides are cut parallel to each other.

candle 2

Step 3:
Now gently fold the tea light container in half until the sides meet.

candle 3

Step 4:

Flatten out any wrinkles you have made and place the place card or picture in the middle

candle 4

Get the Look from MAC

MAC 

EYES
Dust Brule Eye Shadow all over eye lid with the 239 Shading Brush. Using the 222 Tapered Blending Brush, apply Omega Eye Shadow following the natural contour of your eye and blend up to brows. Deepen the crease in the outer corner of your eye by blending in Cork Eye Shadow. For highlight add a light touch of Naked Pigment to the center of the lid, inner corner of the eye and browbone. Fill in brows with Omega Eye Shadow. Apply 7 Lash to top and bottom lashline. For the bottom lashes, trim 7 lash into small pieces and apply each piece with a small space in between. Complete eyes with one coat of Coal Black Pro Lash to top and bottom lashes. 
 
CHEEKS
Softly contour cheekbones and under jaw line with Harmony Powder Blush using the 168 Large Angle Contour Brush. Apply Tenderling Powder Blush all over cheeks. Highlight cheekbone and temple with Shell Cream Colour Base. 
 
LIPS
Smooth on Please Me Lipstick and top with C-Thru Tinted Lipglass. 

DIY Card Holders

card holders

Make graceful holders with swirls that enhance a card’s design. These are actually pieces of inexpensive radio wire — cloth-covered wire, used in vintage radios, that is available in a variety of colors online (look for solid, not stranded, wire). Give it a new twist for a wedding, and it can hold aloft menus, table numbers, or place cards. The wire bends easily and is sturdy enough to keep its shape. The shorter stands rest on a table, and the tall version can be placed in a centerpiece. Copy our designs or create your own.

Wire Card Holders How-To
With scissors, cut about 10 inches of radio wire for small holders, 20 inches for tall ones. Bend wire into a big loop at middle. On each side, first bend a slightly smaller loop, crossing over in front, then a slightly larger loop, this time crossing over behind. Keep bending the wire to form the same-size loop again, directly behind the last one to make a spiral (the cards will be held between these loops). For a short holder, bend each remaining tail of wire to form a C shape perpendicular to the rest of the holder (below); these will sit on the tabletop. For the tall version, bend the remaining tails to form sticks. Trim ends.
Source and more pics

Your Four-Legged Ring Bearer by Gretchen of mywedding.com

pets

 Photography by Anna Kuperberg – see more at www.annakuperberg.com

Forget about having your sister’s temper-tantrum-throwing five year old son as the ring bearer. You’ve got your loyal, dedicated doggie to do the job. You know, that obedient, furry pal who cuddles at your feet every night in bed? Yes! Have your pet walk down the aisle on your big day! The trend is vastly growing and therefore, many attire options, as well as training classes are available for you and your pup to get ready for the big day.

There are just a few things to think over before Rover’s name is printed in the program. How is his temperament? Is he relaxed and cool, or hyper and jumpy? Is he friendly or territorial? Does he leap up on people, whether it’s for excitement or to threaten? These things are very important to consider in making your decision.

Here are a few guidelines to follow if you do decide to have your pup be a part of your special day:

  • Suit up your furry friend with formal wear. Dog Tuxedo’s are so cute are plentiful today. You can also get personalized dog tees for you little doggy. And if Rover is getting walked down the aisle, there are tons of fancy leashes and collars to choose from.

  • Have your pup washed and thoroughly cleaned right before the ceremony to keep people with allergies from having a bad reaction to his dander.  

  • Make sure your dog has relieved himself before the ceremony! It would be horrible for him to use a pew as his fire hydrant.

  • Bring Rover to the ceremony site a few times before the actual big day so he can familiarize himself with the site. Dogs get stage fright too!! 

  • Assign one of your dog-lover friends to keep Rover friendly and polite through the night. This person should make sure Rover doesn’t leave “surprises” under the reception tables!  

  • Be considerate of guests who may be fearful of dogs – as cute as yours is.

There you have it. Your favorite four-legged friend can make a great addition to your special day if you take a few precautions. Get some professional training if you wish, but if you can cater to these suggestions you should be fine without it. And if your sister can’t get over the fact that you won’t have little Timmy as the ring bearer, well, maybe suggest professional training for Timmy. Ouch! Source

 

Tartelette

Tartelette is a wonderful blog filled with a ton of elegant and artful confections. If you are looking for inspiration for your wedding dessert menu, then I suggest you check out this site. Tartelette has everything from pastries to wonderfully flavored ice creams. I have compiled a few of my favorites below! But beware, you may not want to read the rest of this post hungry!

 

 

dessert

Top 15 Wedding Dresses to Wear this Spring

Spring brings with it glorious weather, sunshine, flowers, and an air of renewal. And if you’re a spring bride, you should carry these themes through in the dress you choose. Several trends that are hot for spring wedding dresses this year, include light cotton, organza, and chiffon materials, eyelet patterns, floral accents and lace. Being a spring bride, you also get a little freedom to play with length. Spring is a playful time, a time for us all to celebrate our release from winter hibernation and go forth into the great outdoors. Go short or mid-length if you dare, pick a babydoll style or go long with a natural and casual material. Here are some of the top picks for spring wedding dresses this season.

 

  1. Floral and Strapless: While the material on this dress is a little more formal, the light, pastel floral accents and sparkly beaded detail on the skirt make this dress a perfect pick for spring, allowing a bride to play on the theme of the season without losing the formality and princess-like quality many brides seek in a dress. Outside of wedding fashion, colors and bold prints are hot this spring on the runways and in the department stores. While this dress doesn’t quite fit that mold, it does add a splash of color and some bold accents. The back of the dress, with its light, wavy fabric accents, pastel bow, and ruffled skirt gather even further enforce this dress’s qualifications for a spring bride. This dress is unique and any lady who chooses to wear it on her big day will undoubtedly be the center of attention. The floral dress really makes you look like the pedals of a flower and is definitely an eye catcher. With this dress you can be both elegant
    and playful at the same time and it will
    certainly be one that people will talk about.
  2. Maggie London Eyelet Halter: Eyelet fabric is all the rage for the casual girl this spring, and if you’re looking for a casual, light wedding dress, look no further than this number from Maggie London. The halter cut and empire waist makes it flattering for almost all body types, and the not-quite-floor length allows a long, leg-concealing dress to appear fun and flirty. The fabric is extremely breathable and the style embodies the spirit of a social butterfly – this dress is great for any girl, whether you’re preppy, sporty, fashion-forward, extremely simple, or artsy. Perfect also for those of you planning an outdoor wedding.
  3. Platinum for Priscilla: If you’re going to go short, by all means check out this amazing new dress from the Platinum for Priscilla Spring 2008 collection. It’s cute, flirty and sophisticated all at the same time, and it completely evokes the character of Carrie Bradshaw from “Sex and the City.” The organza dress features well-executed bands that add texture and depth to the dress; the satin belt accents the waist nicely and adds a floral element that screams, “Spring!” The bouncy skirt is spunky and chic. This dress is the perfect short, spring dress that could certainly accommodate many different personality types. Alright alright so platinum isn’t exactly the color you were thinking of for your wedding. This dress might not come in the wedding white that you would see normally on a bride on her big day. But this isn’t just any normal day. This is your day and with the Platinum for Priscilla dress you will definately be the the center of attention and it will be a dress that goes remembered for a long time. Do you like to take a step on the wild side and have some fun? If you do then try this dress on for size it will not disappoint.
  4. Henry Roth Chiffon Halter: The light, flowing chiffon material used for this dress is easy, understated, yet so very elegant. The dress hangs simply, gathering in a pool of airy ripples at the bottom. The Swarovski crystals used to accent below the bust bring a bright and fun element to an otherwise simple, yet beautiful dress. This style is perfect for spring because of its light, flowing nature. There are almost no complications to its design, meaning architects all over the world will appreciate its form, function and innate beauty. A bride in this dress would be comfortable walking down a church aisle or skipping across a field of flowers to reach her intended. Definitely a must-see for a no-nonsense bride.
  5. Lela Rose Two Tiered: A fun and stylish dress, this one really has it all for spring. First off, the two-tiered design lends an air of playfulness and is a nice diversion from the traditional ball gown or A-line cut. Second, the chiffon material used drapes very nicely and it’s frothy and spring-like in its weight and measure. Third, the floral accent used on the bodice is nicely done. It’s big, bold and simple, and it’s a terrific alternative to minute, beaded floral accents. And who can really argue with the sheer beauty of the delicate, wide straps and detailed pleating on the bodice? This dress is a trend setter for the season and really one of a kind.
  6. Vera Wang Swagged Ball Gown: The runways this spring all have one thing in common – color and bold patterns. So, if you’re the adventurous type, consider ditching the white and going for something a little stronger. Just take this gorgeous, draped, iridescent golden ball gown from wedding-dress master Vera Wang. It’s a full and classic shape with a shimmering fabric that sparkles and commands attention. The pinkish hue of the material also makes it a perfect tone for spring. But the crowning jewel of this gown is the attention-commanding, deep burgundy rose accent that curves around the waist, making a big splash. This gown is sophisticated and avant-garde and is a great option for the bride who turns her nose at all things pastel and pink.
  7. Mori Lee Chantilly Lace: Stylish and dainty, this strapless, floor-length gown by designer Mori Lee is a great option for this year’s spring bride for many reasons. First of all, the A-line cut is simple and flattering to most body types. Second, the intricate lace overlay gives the dress a light, airy feeling, while maintaining a strong sense of femininity. Lace is definitely in this season, as are empire waists. And the subtle crystal Swarovski beads you’ll find on this wide empire waist band add a sense of elegance, formality and sheen. For brides so inclined, this dress comes with the option of ordering an accompanying shawl, which is available in three lengths. And don’t neglect the gentle scalloping that ruffles out around the train. And beautiful detail for the bride that appreciates beauty!
  8. Jim Hjelm Short & Satin: Another terrific option for brides interested in short dresses, this sassy number from Jim Hjlem’s Spring 2008 collection has many of the simplest elements that are defining spring style. First of all, the shimmering satin fabric is fresh and comfortable and the above-knee length is fun and flirty. The feature that really makes this dress one with the times is the careful and waist-enhancing diagonal pleating that starts midway down the bodice, narrows to a point underneath the crystal-beaded sash and then spreads back out through the voluminous and lively skirt. The blush tint of the satin further qualifies this dress for a spring wedding by lending a warmness and lightheartedness to the look. Again, this is another dress that is a great option for both the cosmopolitan and the spunky bride.
  9. Judd Wadell Cap Sleeve: Most spring dresses this season are strapless or feature dainty, lacey straps. That’s why this dress is a great addition to what’s available in the spring collections. The cap sleeves are very flattering to the arms and add a level of class and sophistication lacking in some of the shorter skirt or strappy varietals. This style will suit brides looking for something more classic, yet still modern. Made of Peau de Soie, a drapeable, matte fabric that has satin woven into the fibers, the dress’s medium weight and dull finish makes it flattering to most figures since it hides imperfections instead of highlighting them like some shinier materials. The empire waist is doubly flattering to most body types. A simple dress without being too plain, the bodice features a shimmering satin that extends just below the bust and is intricately woven. The floor-length dress also has a chapel-length train. A gorgeous dress for the romantic bride.
  10. Monique Lhuillier Floral Strapless: Floral accents are in, in, in this season and no one does them better than Monique Lhuillier, who is known for her elegant and romantic dress designs. This beige dress is one of the best pieces out of Lhuillier’s 2008 collection, which was dubbed “The Enchanted Forest” in her runway show. Lhuillier steered clear of polished fabrics this season and is using lots of the other hot trends, like chiffon, organza and tulle. This loud and experimental dress is definitely made for the adventurous bride. But for those of you wanting to take an artsy risk, you’ll find no better tailor than Lhuillier. The four-tiered skirt is encrusted with beautiful light blue floral accents, mimicking leaves falling to the earth and conjuring images of, literally, an enchanted forest. The beige color is soft and would especially favor brides with warmer skin tones, and the top of the dress is constructed beautifully, with the organza material and blue floral accents tying up gently across a shoulder. If this dress isn’t for you, check out some of Lhuillier’s other pieces from her collection – one is sure to suit your style.
  11. Kirstie Kelly Couture: If you want to keep some semblance of a traditional wedding gown yet still incorporate some in-style elements, this gown from Kirstie Kelly Couture might just be the one for you. It shows its spring 2008 status through the lace V-neckline and the pinkish hue of the eggshell-finish fabric. The cream satin sash is also a telltale sign of its vintage – so many designers are incorporating this look into a variety of gown styles. But the ball gown classification will allow the fairy tale bride to stay in sync with the dreams of her girlhood while also wow her guests with the sleek style of modern times and the girly accents that are so in style this spring season. This dress is definately a very beautifully elegant dress. It is cute and fun and really anything that you need it to be. This dress will not disappoint the bride that chooses it.
  12. Christos Lace: Bring on more lace! Lace is so very beautiful and so very in this spring season. And this wonderful Alencon lace covered gown from Christos uses the material just right. The tiered organza gown is covered in a beautiful light lace that extends from just below the bodice to the floor. The subtle way it’s incorporated into the gown set this lace number apart from other dresses that are constructed to make it the obvious focal point rather than a demure and discreet detail. A truly romantic dress that would flatter many body types.
  13. Reem Acra Sheath: Fans of the Star Wars remake movies will love this gauzy new dress from Reem Acra that incorporates all the elements of hot spring style into a unique, avant-garde look that calls forth the image of a much-chicer Queen Amidala. Over the top of a simple, strapless, floor-length sheath drapes a gauzy, see-through material that wraps all the way around the bride. Worked into the shoulder and left forearm are floral accents that add softness and beauty to the look. And gauzy banding wrapped around the arms further adds texture and style. This dress is perfect for the artsy and adventurous bride – it’s modern while still maintaining a graceful quality.
  14. Romona Keveza: Another short and spunky number, this great dress by Romona Keveza is really a quintessential look for the spring bride looking for a fun and romantic mini-dress. Made from a moveable light-pink fabric, the strapless dress accents the chest and shoulder areas nicely, coming up around the bust in a heart-shape. The bubble hem moves well with the bride, and the folds and draping in the bodice are expertly done. Another major spring element is the large rose accent to the left of the midriff, from which a wide bow hangs. Another fun and flirty dress for a fun and flirty season, complete with breathable fabrics, pastel hues and floral elements.
  15. Reem Acra Fitted: Enough with all this bounce and sway, you say? If you’re looking for something a little more form-fitting, check out this gorgeous floor-length dress from Reem Acra. The body of the gown hangs fairly tight to the frame, and the subtle tiers give a soft texture. The silk satin-faced chiffon is ideal for a spring bride and the ivory color – just slightly off white – is very flattering to most skin tones. But let’s not forget the other spring-perfect details expertly worked into this gown. The V-neck bodice features some very tastefully-done bead work and the narrow satin sash at the waist gives the dress much class. The back of the dress flows to the ground in ripples of satin that move beautifully. You really can’t go wrong in any way by choosing this dress.

How to Add Volume to Flat Hair

volume

 

Is your hair lacking in the volume department? Here are some tips and some secret techniques that help pump up the volume!
 
Add Some Color: Adding highlights or lowlights gives your hair dimension. Hair that is all the same color appears flatter.  When adding dimension to the hair, you are creating an illusion of thicker hair with more lift. Multi-tonal hair works like an optical illusion on the eyes, they perceive movement, even where it does not exist.
 

Layer it Up: Hair styles that have short layers will add volume to the hair, especially those that have shorter layers in the crown. The shorter the layers go, the more lift you will have, but keep in mind if you go really short it will create a punkish pixie look. Also keep in mind that the layers should go with the hairstyle. Some styles do not work well with short layers, so you may have to opt for longer ones or a different style. 

Tease it Up: Don’t get scared, we do not mean 80’s style teasing! If you have an area that just needs a little more volume, take that section and tease the under side of the hair strand, then spray with hair spray, let the hair spray dry for a minute, and then smooth out the top side of the hair strand. This technique will add a little more volume to those trouble areas.
 
Use Do Dads: Do Dads, are simple hair combs with hair extensions attached. You choose the color to match your own or a contrasting color for an edgier look. To get the lift, you fasten it on just as you would a traditional hair comb by combing it in against the grain of your hair.
 
Use a Volumizer: Volumizers are designed to add lift and body to the hair. They are available in gels, mousses, and spray versions. These products are applied to the roots of towel dried-hair, lifting hair with your fingers as you apply.  Our favorite is the spray mousses. These products make it easier to apply because you simply spray it on. This comes in handy in those hard to see spots in the back of your head.  

Use a Curling Iron: If used properly, a curling iron will give a great lift. This is because of the intense heat generated. The correct way to use a curling iron is to start at the crown of the head, take hold of one-inch sections of hair and lift vertically, wrapping hair around the iron, as close to your scalp as you can. Then spray with a firm hairspray, for a firm but still flexible hold.
 
Hot/Cold Blow-Dry: Blow-drying will give you a good lift if used with a medium to large round brush. The trick is to place the brush as close to your scalp as you can, then pull your hair straight up from the base of your head, following the brush with a blow dryer on high heat, and then follow with a blast of cool air which “sets” the style.
 
Use Velcro Rollers: A few strategically placed Velcro rollers will give your hair terrific volume. After hair is washed and blow-dried, curve one-inch sections of the hair you want lifted around the roller (small rollers for a slight lift and large for a higher lift). Three or four rollers should do the trick. Leave rollers in for about five minutes, remove and arrange newly lifted hair with your fingers. It’s recommended you don’t brush at this point, as brushing could “deflate” the set.

 

Mood Lighting

mood lighting

Give the decorations at your wedding reception the romantic look of lace. The intricate patterns shining through these luminarias (paper-bag lanterns illuminated by votive candles) are courtesy of doilies glued inside. Place a grouping of the lanterns in different sizes on the guest-book table or dinner tables for a beautiful, glowing display. We chose ivory paper bags for an understated look, but you can use thin paper bags in any light color. Set the candles in heavy-glass votive holders to help anchor the bags.

Tools and Materials
Light-colored paper lunch bags in various sizes
Ruler
Scalloped rotary cutter
12-inch gold-colored doilies (white ones won’t show through as well)
Utility knife
Scissors
Glue stick or Xyron sticker-making machine
Votive candles in glass holders
Utility lighter

Luminarias How-To
1. Lay each bag flat; use a ruler to guide the scalloped rotary cutter as you cut a new top edge 1 inch below the bag’s original edge.

2. To cut doilies to fit the bag, lay a bag flat on the work surface. Lay a doily on the bag, and determine where to cut in order to create a pleasing design. Cut straight lines with a ruler and a utility knife; use scissors to snip along curves. The final size of the doily should be 1/8 inch narrower than the width of the bag so the doily will lay flat inside.

3. Coat the gold side of the doily generously with glue from the glue stick, or coat it with self-adhesive using the Xyron machine. Attach doily to the inside of the front of the bag, positioning it as desired. After gluing, close the bag, and run your hand firmly over the design to seal. Open the bag, and let dry at least 1 hour.

4. Set the bag in desired location, and then put the votive candle, in its holder, inside. Light the wick once the candle holder has been securely placed; do not carry the lit luminaria.

Source