Archive for the ‘Trend Spotting’Category

Henna Inspired Details Add an Artistic Flair to Wedding Cakes

You’re sure to swoon over these wedding cakes featuring artistic details inspired by the art of Henna (Mehndi).  Largely inspired by the popular tradition of bridal henna (practiced for centuries in India, Africa and the Middle East) these wedding cakes range from dramatic to colorful to elegant.

Because I’m still feeling a bit awe-struck over the the henna inspired cake that was shown on the “Amber and Amethyst” inspiration board I recently created, I’ve collected a few more great examples that I’m excited to share with you!  If this type of cake is appealing to you, you should know that wedding cakes designed with henna inspired details and intricate patterns are also called mehndi cakes.

Pictured below is a gorgeous cake inspired by South Asian and Indian culture.  Created by IndAroma‘s Abhishek Handa, this artful cake makes a glamorous and memorable statement.   Source: IndAroma. 6548C Little River Tpke., Alexandria; 703-354-1812
cake photo by storymotion.com
This next lovely henna inspired wedding cake is by  Eileen Carter Creations.

cake photo by www.jamiehowell.net

Many thanks to Jamie Howell Photography for the above photo

What’s not to love about the subtle elegance of a white on white cake?  Pattern and texture make this cake come alive!

cake photo by jaytsaiphotogrpahy.com

photo by jaytsaiphotography.com

The henna inspired pattern seen on this next wedding cake has a more whimsical flair.  The intricate detail is very pretty and balanced nicely by the simplicity of the smooth white icing.Purple Henna Cake by Sugar Coated Desserts and Cakes

, LoveLifeImages.com

And just for fun…  how about some cookies!

photo of mehndi inspired cookies

03

01 2013

Bridal Portraiture | Artist Debi Griffin Captures Your Inner Fashionista!

Illustrative Moments by Deborah Griffin

Debi Griffin‘s bridal illustrations stem from over a dozen years in luxury bridal design.  After 13 years of working in couture bridal with Vera Wang and Amsale , sketching wedding gowns for clients and bridal publications Debi decided to make this modern keepsake available to every bride.  Rendered in the high fashion style you would see on the design room walls of the coveted labels in NYC/Europe, Debi has the talent to turn your memories into a timeless piece of art!

Each custom illustration is approached with much thought and detail, highlighting unique characteristics such as hair color/style, gown silhouette, and jewelry.   Debi’s sketches are not meant to be portraits; the magical essence of her illustrations exists in her ability import her subject into a high fashion setting – thus creating a timeless original fashion illustration.

The process begins with an order and payment, and requires several photos, such as a good full frontal, three-quarter view, full back view if that option is selected, and then detail shots (shoes, jewelry, hair ornaments, dress embellishments).   The chosen pose is decided by the dress and all highlighted details creating a flattering composition.

Every illustration is an original piece done on bristol board using permanent artist ink, colored pencil and markers with accents of metallics. You will also receive a scan of the finished piece before shipping.  Once completed each piece is signed and then set in a 12×16″ light ivory mat with backer board, and then placed in a protective clear sleeve. Each piece is carefully packaged in a non bend envelope before mailing.

Debi graciously agreed to my Three-Q-Interview , and I am delighted to share her responses with you!  Enjoy!

Q1: Name a celeb you would love to have as a client

Gwen Stefani would be a dream client! I would love to illustrate her custom-made pink and white silk faille wedding dress by John Galliano for Dior, with an antique lace veil also designed by John Galliano.

Q2: What are your favorite fabrics and/or embellishments?

My favorite fabric is silk faille. It is the new taffeta. Lots of body and richness and ultra chic. I love embellishments that are bold but understated like Vera Wang’s use of fabric treatments that do not need alot of glitter to make it important.

Q3: Who is your favorite wedding dress designer for current year or new season.

There are so many great designers who I admire for so many different reasons. I have had an obsession with Marchesa for several seasons now. I love Georgina and Keren’s vision of the new glam.

 

Illustrative Moments renderings are perfect for any occasion- Bridal shower, Wedding, Anniversary (the ULTIMATE first anniversary gift of paper), Valentines, Birthday, Christmas, or just because.

Additional Links & Contact info for Debi…

http://www.etsy.com/shop/IllustrativeMoments | info@illustrativemoments.com

(c) 2012  E.Delgardio

10

09 2012

Where NOT to Skimp: Key Wedding Elements

wedding rings

3 Wedding Things You Don’t Want to Skimp On

(Me:) What?  Only three things?  So unfair: I’m a wedding planner! – we know that EVERYTHING is important!   But, if you insist… I suppose I could narrow a few dozen things down to a few key elements.   And, it would take barely a breath for me me to rattle off a list; however, I’d prefer to share some ideas and experiences instead – because as we like to say: no two weddings are alike.

DIY wedding flowers

http://weddingfavorsunlimited.net

As founder and primary planner for my company, I have experienced hundreds of weddings and worked with such a wide array of couples that it’s difficult to even cast a client profile.   Nonetheless, I have noticed a few commonalities that I can share:

DIY Wedding (Type 1): Couples who have a very strict or tight budget need to watch expenses and will certainly benefit from help of a planner to advise them early on.  Of course you can save money by doing some things yourself, just be realistic about what is possible and what will send you over-the-edge.  I encourage these couples to invest in a seasoned planner / coordinator that can advise them and assist them the day of the wedding.  Don’t skimp on the venue, because food and built-in amenities (linens, interior space for contingency, staff, etc.) have tremendous value, and can make or break the entire day.  Don’t skimp on the photography because things such as limited hours (partial coverage), inexperience – which often times translates into timing issues on the wedding day, and inadequate or poor quality images & editing are not worth the expense.  Summary: Hire a planner to help you and for advice making wise budget decisions; secure a good venue to accommodate your guests comfortably and provide most necessities; hire the best qualified photographer you can afford.

An investment in experience is far wiser than savings gambled on inexperience.

Young & Fabulous (Type 2): Couples who enjoy the luxury of a larger budget have countless options and rarely skimp on anything.  They are able to plan an event with all the trimmings – spectacular décor, an amazing venue, the elaborate wedding cake, etc. However, even these couples eventually reach a point where they need to rein in costs.  For them, my advice is:  Be the best hosts you can be.  Don’t skimp on your bridal party – offer to pay for their accommodations, hair and make-up, and offset the costs of their attire.   Don’t skimp in any area that jeopardizes your guests’ comfort – anticipate their experience and make sure they are not too hot or too cold, or too far from one place to another.  Lastly, don’t skimp on taking care of your vendors – that’s an investment that will pay off in spades!   Summary:  If you have the money, invest it throughout.  The level of style and grace should be perfectly matched, and result in a great experience for all.    second wedding-beach wedding

Second Weddings and Blended Families (Type 3):  Almost without exception our second wedding clients are at least in their mid-thirties and beyond.  They are less inclined to host over-the-top events, or invest a lot in décor, and the guest lists tend to be less than one hundred.  Their priorities often center on quality, and we encourage them to splurge on Food and Beverage, Photography and/or Videography, Entertainment (wanting guests of all ages to have fun).   Summary: Set the tone for the wedding with a less traditional venue where guests can enjoy quality time and a lovely meal together; hire a great photographer to capture all the fun and memories; add an interactive element or unique entertainment to keep everyone amused and in the moment.

(c) 2012 E. Delgardio

Private Residence | New Years Eve + Wedding

Photos from an intimate New Year’s Eve Wedding celebration – December 2011

Photos courtesy of Errol Colon
Private residence wedding and party by A Flair for Affairs

I can’t tell you how excited I was to receive a call about a New Year’s Eve wedding! Especially upon hearing this couple’s unique love story and the special circumstances of their nuptials (and I will honor my promise to respect their privacy). I worked with them to bring together all the elements of an exceptionally memorable New Years Eve wedding.

Elegant poolside reception by A Flair for Affairs

New Years Eve wedding cake and floral bouquet with pewter ribbon

The couple exchanged vows in the grand entrance hall of their home with their closest family and friends in attendance. Following the ceremony, guests toasted the couple with Dom Perignon. A custom menu of mostly vegetarian hors d’oeuvres and small plates were passed by Puff n Stuff, and guests ate, mingled, and danced until the New Years Eve countdown began.
outdoor patio wedding reception by A Flair for Affairs | errol colon photography

Pool patio decor lighting for house party

New Years Eve fireworks over lake

The weather could not have been more perfect for such a grand fête! Guests were led out onto the client’s private dock to view the fireworks over the lake. They cheered and sipped champagne and asked if they could do it all again next year… (Exactly what we like to hear!)

Photography | Errol Colon Photographers
Catering | Puff n’ Stuff
Floral | Raining Roses
DJ Music | Junction 88
Cake | The Sugar Suite
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