Real Wedding: Julia & Brett

I know most of us are looking forward to Spring right now, but this vintage-inspired winter wedding was just too lovely not to share with you (Julia and Brett describe their wedding vision as old world European meets post-war America, with some inspiration pulled from Moulin Rouge and Amelie). Plus, I'm really excited to share Genevieve Nisly's photography with you - she's a talent you'll want to know about.






Julia and Brett designed and made the stationery suite themselves, from the rounded corners to the gilded edges (with Martha Stewart materials from Michael's), and each invite was customized for its recipient. Says Julia, "Not only did we save several thousand dollars creating our own stationery, but it grew into one of the elements of our celebration that we really cherish, and that received an overwhelming response from the recipients."














Julia on her dress: "I saved massively by buying a floor sample, and I cannot say better things about [the designer] Eden Bridals - unbelievable customer service. They sent me a list of every boutique in the United States who had sample of my dress in my size, and by finding the size I needed, I ultimately needed no alterations whatsoever, which was also a great cost saver."






"Huge money saving tip: Buy fewer slices of cake than you need, especially if you have another dessert or cookies like we did. Our cake served 82 and though we had 125 guests, we were still was able to save the top and had many slices left over." The cake included layers of red velvet, almond, lemon and spice, all frosted in Crème de cacao butter cream, and it was topped with vintage handmade bride and groom clothespin ornaments that Brett's parents used to announce their engagement to Brett's mother's family.



Ceremony venue: Saint John the Baptist in Canton, OH

Reception venue: The Canton Club

Bride's dress / shoes: Eden Bridal's / Zappos

Flower girl dresses: J.Crew

Ring bearer's ensemble: eBay

Groom's 3-piece suit: Target

Ring pillow / crowns: Insignes

Paper / envelopes: Envelopper Inc.

Cake: And Eat It Too

I just had to share this tidbit from Julia, for any bride who worries that everything won't turn out exactly as you've planned or envisioned: "The only thing I had really really really always envisioned for my wedding was to wear my hair in perfect marcel and finger waves, and it unfortunately just didn't happen. I could have cried about my hair, but I just had to let it go. I found the love of my life and married him, and we had the most gorgeous and fabulous party with our family and friends from all over the world, and that is what matters. Have a vision, be flexible, prioritize, and let it go when you must. Don't lose focus on what it's really all about. Like every one told me, something (or ten things) always go wrong at the last minute. They totally did, and we lived."

Congratulations Julia and Brett - thank you so much for sharing all of these wonderful details with us, and thank you to Genevieve Nisly for sending along this beautiful photos! You can see lots more from this wedding over at Genevieve's blog.

Board #458: Orchid & Silver

These days I seem to be drawn to lots of neutrals, white flowers, and subdued colors - I apologize to those of you looking for wild or unique color palettes! Today's inspiration board is mostly white and silvery grays - a minimalist palette that allows for more ornate details, like the millefeuille skirt, the ornate silver frames, and the whimsical calligraphy. Things that might seem over the top* in outrageous colors.

(*This is not to say that you can't have both a riotous color scheme and ornate details - it's just more difficult to do so tastefully.)

Mood: simply refined
Palette: winter white, silvery gray (with bits of chocolate torte and orchid leaf)

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Top row from left: wallpaper table runner with potted orchids from Wedding Style Guide, potted trees from Martha Stewart via This is Glamorous, tiered mini dress from Martha Stewart Weddings
Row 2: gray invitation with calligraphy by Betsy Dunlap, monogrammed chocolate tortes from Martha Stewart Weddings
Row 3: chocolate truffles from Coco Delice, framed photos via Curious Sofa, Mindy Rice bouquet photo by Jose Villa, pocket flower from The Sartorialist

When you're trying to make every single element in your wedding totally original, you're more likely to end up going crazy with DIY projects, or to spend tons of money hiring professionals to personalize everything for you. And if you know this going in, and still want to do it, then go right ahead. For everyone else, focusing on just a few special details should help to save sanity, and maybe even some money. Since simplicity is currently my favorite wedding word, here are some of the doable special details I had in mind when creating today's inspiration board:

- Hire a calligrapher to create your invitation for you, then have them offset printed. They'll look both custom and tasteful, and they won't cost you an arm and a leg.
- Tables are dressed up with a wallpaper table runner (some good wallpaper sources here), and a row of potted orchids. Orchids can get pretty pricey, so look for a nursery near you and find out if you can get a deal for buying more than a few plants.
- Is it just me, or have boutonnieres become as big as corsages? Instead, how about plucking a single flower from your bridal bouquet, and tucking it in to your groom's buttonhole or pocket?
- Display parents' and grandparents' wedding photos in beautiful antique silver frames. It's a lovely, thoughtful touch (and less self-centered than a slideshow or photo display of the bride and groom).
- Instead of paying more for a wedding cake, purchase decadent chocolate tortes from a local bakery and personalize them with monogram stencils and cocoa powder. To continue the chocolate theme, place brioche molds filled with truffles on each table.

Update! I just came across phalaenopsis orchids on the IKEA website for as little as $13 each. They're not available for purchase through the site, but you might be able to find them at your nearest IKEA store.

Board #455: Lemons and Paperwhites

Sugared lemons* and potted paperwhites are the perfect decor elements for a winter wedding: simple, sophisticated, and lovely, as well as DIY- and budget-friendly (without necessarily looking DIY or budget-friendly). Clear beads strung on a bendable wire turn into a pretty table number, and lemon curd adds color to a simple buttercream cake (okay, this 5-tiered cake isn't exactly, but you could spread lemon curd on the top of smaller layer cakes for a similar effect that is, in fact, simple). And what's in that little favor box that doubles as a place card? How about lemon drops, or pate de fruit. (Edible favors always seem like a good idea to me: if your guests leave them behind, you're stuck with lots of yummy treats instead of, say, 100 miniature picture frames.) Notice that this isn't really a yellow wedding; it's a winter white wedding with just a pop of color. For those brides who are unsure about color, and who can't afford to hire a professional designer to direct your aesthetic choices, my suggestion is this: stick with a neutral background (preferably white), and use one color sparingly. It's hard to go wrong with a {white + one color} palette.

*Directions for making sugared fruit.

Mood: sweet and simple winter wedding
Palette: sugared lemon yellow, crisp paperwhite

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Top row from left: sugared lemon centerpiece with beaded table number from Martha Stewart Weddings, ruffled dress via This is Glamorous, paperwhites from Brides
Row 2: calligraphy favor box and lemon curd wedding cake both from Martha Stewart Weddings
Row 3: white flower girl dresses from Martha Stewart Weddings, narcissus and freesia bouquet by Artfool, snowy house photo by Cameron Purdy
Row 4: paperwhite centerpiece by Artfool, Alee & Press blind letterpress invitation suite and eaux-de-vie both from Martha Stewart Weddings

Board #451: Cotton & Blue

Happy New Year! I hope that everyone had delightful holidays, and maybe some left-over treats to make this Monday back at work a bit sweeter. I thought I'd pick up where we left off in December, with inspiration boards that take a less-is-more approach to wedding planning...

I absolutely adore this beautiful dress by Elizabeth Dye, and when I noticed the "nosegay" of raw cotton* in the model's hand, I was inspired to create this quaint winter wedding board. This would have been pretty in just brown and white, but a small amount of the faintest Tiffany blue adds a bit of visual interest, and allows this look to work as well in early spring as in winter. The tea-length dress, birdcage veil, locket, and champagne coupes are the perfect touch of vintage - sweet, not theme-y. Glassine envelopes filled with rice look pretty either plain or embellished with a custom rubber stamp. And how about this for a twist on DIY? Write out your wedding invitations by hand. It doesn't require craftiness or creativity, just nice enough hand-writing, pretty ivory paper, and good black ink. Not only is it traditional, it will also be a delightfully unexpected surprise for your invitees. Depending on the tone you're trying to set, you can either use traditional wording or you can write a personalized note to each guest.

(*Raw cotton is a wonderful decorative element during winter months when fresh flowers are either unavailable or frighteningly expensive, and it makes for unusual bouquets and boutonnieres, as well as beautifully rustic wreaths and centerpieces. You can order it online, or if you live in an area that grows cotton, see if a local farmer might let you have some on the cheap.)

Mood: sweet and quaint
Palette: cotton boll white, chocolate truffle, barely-there blue

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Top row from left: custom Beatrix dress by Elizabeth Dye, twine-bound letters photo by Elizabeth Messina, miniature bundt cake and wooden cake stand by Herriott Grace via Darling Dexter, birdcage veil by Twigs & Honey
Row 2: cotton branch wreath from Blue Moon Events, glassine packets of rice from Martha Stewart Weddings, chocolate truffles photo by Elizabeth Messina
Row 3: vintage locket from Deanna Littell's Charm School (published in Martha Stewart Weddings), champagne coupe photo via Kiss the Groom, country chapel photo by HH Fine Arts via {frolic!}, cotton boll bouquet from New York Magazine

I'm still totally smitten with the idea of a simple ceremony followed by a reception of champagne and dessert. It works with any number of guests - champagne and dessert makes for a perfectly lovely gathering of just a few close friends and family, but it's also not going to break the bank if your guest list is considerably bigger. Also, this type of reception doesn't require professional event planning experience. Don't get me wrong - I absolutely admire the beautiful work that event designers do, and have so much respect for the skill of planners and coordinators. But not everyone can afford (or wants) to hire one of these professionals, and for those who are planning a wedding without one, a dessert and champagne reception is manageable with help from a few friends and family members. Bake or purchase some pretty cakes and treats, pick up some chocolates from your favorite local shop (if you're in San Francisco, the caramel truffles at XOX are my personal favorite), buy some nice champagne in bulk, and borrow pretty cake plates and candy dishes from aunts and godmothers. Plus, there's something charming in a wedding that doesn't seem "produced."

A Winter Holiday Soiree

I've posted a number of winter wedding inspiration boards this week and last, so when my sweet friend Janie at The Bride's Cafe asked if I'd like to share this winter holiday shoot with you here on Snippet & Ink, I jumped at the chance. And that was before I'd even seen the photos! Created by some wonderfully talented ladies, including Janie, Courtney from Merriment Events, and Katie from Open Air Photography, this lovely shoot is exactly what I love - beautiful and thoughtful without being overdone. Whether you're looking for inspiration for your winter wedding or for next week's holiday party, you'll definitely find some great ideas here...




The tree was decorated with pine cones and mercury glass ornaments hung with jute twine.


Courtney created this garland by stamping the letters on vintage tags, then stringing them on jute twine.


Vintage sheet music can be found throughout the shoot, from accordion "garlands" on the mantle, to paper pinwheels, to gift wrap. (Can you see the name on that gift tag? It's Kathryn! How much did that make my day!)


Gifts were also wrapped with kraft paper and tied with gold ric rac, upholstery ribbon, or green satin. This one was embellished with vintage skeleton keys.




The mantle was decorated with various flowers in mercury glass vases and a vintage box filled with jute twine and silver ornaments. Silver serving trays were hung on the wall above the mantle - what a simple and effective way to fill up wall space!




Janie decorated the table with white amaryllis, French anemones, Victoria white ranunculus, supergreen parrot tulips, and white peonies all in mercury glass vases. Using only one type of flower in each vase allows each flower to stand out, and is simple solution for centerpieces. The amaryllis arrangements are rather tall, so they can be removed once guests are seated to allow for conversation across the table.


The menus were lettered in the shape of a star, and embellished with little stars made of sheet music.


Menus and place cards were calligraphed by Jen at Pretty Pen Jen, using gold ink on ivory paper.




Croquembouche is a perfectly dramatic and appropriate dessert choice for a winter wedding or party. This one, created by Jenny at Sweetest Thing Bakery, is drizzled in white chocolate.


For the winter brides out there, a bouquet of white peonies, gray dusty miller, nearly black privet berries, and tied with beautiful striped French wire ribbon.





Thank you so so much to all of these talented ladies for sharing this beautiful winter shoot with us - now I can't wait to throw a holiday dinner party! I hope we'll be able to have all of you back on Snippet & Ink again very soon.

Photography: Katie Stoops at Open Air Photography

Styling: Courtney Spencer at Merriment Events / Little White Book)

Flowers: Janie Medley at JM Flora / The Bride's Cafe)

Calligraphy: Pretty Pen Jen

Cake: Sweetest Thing Bakery

Hair and makeup: Sarah Valentine at Mango Hair Salon

Board #450: Gingerbread and Lavender

This is sort of a mini-inspiration board - it just worked better this way than with any of the other images I tried to fit into it. Sometimes less is more...

If you're a winter bride who loves lavender, how about a bouquet of dried lavender, wrapped in soft velvet ribbon? After the ceremony, treat your guests to dessert and champagne (I'm dead set on bringing this type of reception back, can you tell?). Gingerbread linzertorte is a perfectly appropriate, yet totally unexpected, winter wedding "cake." Each dessert certainly doesn't need to be color coordinated, but the table also doesn't have to look like a middle school bake sale. Arrange things thoughtfully, maybe with a small vase of flowers, and let this table of sweets be the focal point in the room. Unless you're lucky enough to hold your reception in a room with a working fireplace - that would be the perfect focal point for a winter wedding. You'll have one less thing to worry about if you skip the party favors, though you might make small glassine bags available for guests to take some chocolate truffles home with them.

So what do you think? Can you still get a sense of this wedding with only 6 images?

Mood: sweet and simple
Palette: gingerbread, faded lavender, rosé

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Top row from left: winter bride and groom from Brides, champagne coupes filled with rosé and chocolate truffles both from Martha Stewart Weddings
Row 2: gingerbread linzertorte from Martha Stewart, dried lavender bouquet with velvet ribbon photo by Elizabeth Messina, snow-topped church

Things are winding down here at Snippet & Ink - this is the last inspiration board of 2009! I've still got a few beautiful posts lined up for you, though, before heading out for the holiday. Later this morning, I'll be posting a beautiful shoot that Janie Medley, Courtney Spencer, Katie Stoops, and some other talented folks put together just for us! It's full of winter and holiday inspiration for a wedding or dinner party, so don't miss out on that. Also, don't forget to enter in the Ban.do giveaway before Thursday at midnight!

Board #448: Poinsettias in Pink

Today's winter wedding board draws its inspiration from a classic harbinger of the holidays, the poinsettia. But instead of the traditional red, I've used poinsettias in various shades of pink and cream. With a mostly white palette and lots of candles, the pink isn't cloying - though it would certainly make for a sweet bridal shower as well as a wedding or holiday party. Invitations are all white, except for calligraphy lettered in pink ink, and they're finished off with white twine and sealing wax (if you want to send envelopes wrapped in twine, you'll need to put them inside glassine envelopes for mailing). I imagined this as a simple tea reception, with cake and candies, and of course champagne and tea - a budget-friendly option that's charming and sophisticated.

Mood: warm, charming
Palette: poinsettia pink, candlelight white

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Top row from left: poinsettia wreath from Matthew Mead Style, white Christmas crackers from Rebecca Thuss, red calligraphy from Mr Boddington's Studio, red-lipped bride with pale pink dress from Martha Stewart Weddings
Row 2: various white candies via The Bride's Guide, blusher veil photo by Corbin Gurkin, tea cake from Crown & Crumpet, ceremony site with candles from Wonderful Graffiti
Row 3: bouquet with cattleya orchids from Martha Stewart Weddings, envelope with twine and wax seal from Linea Carta, vintage gloves photo by Anna Kuperberg, pink poinsettia from Matthew Mead Style

Board #447: Fantaisie de Noël

I love the holiday season and the way it lends itself to fantasy and whimsy and even a little mystery. Today's wedding board was inspired by this idea, and by the laurel garland from Tail of the Yak*, with the olive green, the pop of pink ribbon, and the aged gilt of the mirror behind it. I think it's a luxurious and unexpected twist on the traditional Christmas green and red, and it's definitely full of holiday fantasy.

(*Tail of the Yak is an incredibly well-curated and magical little shop in Berkeley, and if you ever have the chance to visit, do. It also happens to be where my engagement ring came from, which might make me a little biased, except that it actually is the most wonderful shop ever to exist. Promise.)

Mood: sumptuous holiday whimsy
Palette: laurel and pine green, fuschia velvet, bronze and chocolate

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Top row from left: laurel leaf garland with pink ribbon from Tail of the Yak via Oh Happy Day, chocolate taffeta dress photo by Rodney Smith, centerpiece with magenta rose and begonia leaves by Ariella Chezar
Row 2: place setting with red napkin photo by Silvana di Franco via Wiley Valentine, vintage-style Roman-inspired crown from Heather Bullard, fuschia velvet chairs via My Little Apartment
Row 3: snowy library from Anthropologie's Nov. '09 catalog, bouquet with deep pink garden roses and jasmine by Artfool, hand-lettered menu with pink garland border by Cynthia Warren for Chez Panisse (photo by Aya Brackett)
Row 4: vintage fuschia velvet shoes via Nostalgia at the Stone House, designer Christmas tree with glass ornaments in shades of pink, chocolate chestnut wedding cake with sugared fruit and laurel leaves and diamond engagement ring in fuschia velvet box both from Martha Stewart Weddings

(I know I've been writing a lot more lately, and I hope that's okay with everyone. Some of you are probably just here for the pictures, and that's okay too.)

In the context of our recent conversations about keeping things simple, today's wedding inspiration board might not make much sense, especially if you are thinking of "simple" as "minimalist." There is certainly nothing minimalist about this sumptuous holiday wedding that I've imagined for today - it's full of outrageously rich fuschia velvet, it's decorated with garlands and Christmas trees, there's a crown and illustrated menu and fabulous vintage shoes, and a tiered chocolate cake covered with sugared fruit. I think, no matter how you try to make it fit, "simple" just doesn't apply here.

But I don't believe that richness and thoughtfulness are mutually exclusive. In fact, I think that they can and should go hand in hand. That was how I thought about today's inspiration board - it's the way I'd like to approach the holidays, my own wedding planning, and most parts of my life. It includes finding and creating beauty - both material and spiritual - in every day, thinking carefully which objects you choose to surround yourself with, giving to others, and doing these things in a way that is authentic for you. Below is part of an email I wrote to my friend Meg awhile back (she even posted it on her blog!) that seemed appropriate for this conversation, and that I thought I'd share with you:

...[I was thinking] about was why do I love all of the wedding details? Because I really do love them (well, most of them; there are a chunk that I find absurd). And I realized that it's because I love details in general, I love things that are done thoughtfully and beautifully, that are meaningful, and that are little gifts to other people whether they realize it's a gift or not. And if a bride doesn't feel that way about the details, and if all she feels is pressure and like she doesn't measure up, then that's not thoughtful or meaningful in a good way, and it's not a gift to anyone! People need to remember that their wedding day should reflect who they are, and if for them that means walking down the aisle to Johnny Cash, and not perfectly coordinated vintage stamps, then THAT'S their gift.

So, what do you think? How you feel about this idea? Is it something that resonates with you? How are you applying it to your own wedding planning (or holiday shopping, or whatever)?

Board #446: Ivory & Evergreen

I apologize for repeating images from time to time - there are some that I return to again and again. It seems like every year around this time, this sweet ruffled dress by Oscar de la Renta makes an appearance in one of my inspiration boards (like here, and here). I just can't help it - I love it! And even though it's short, it feels like the perfect winter wedding dress to me.

Though winter weddings are generally more formal than in other seasons - I think it's the fact that we're stuck indoors and wearing more clothes - that's no reason to sacrifice the simplicity that we've been talking about lately. Choose a dress that makes you feel beautiful, a classic color palette (inspired by this post), and choose a few details that matter to you and make them extra-special (like quirky calligraphy, or a wreath in lieu of a traditional bouquet, or miniature panettone for your guests to take home). As Gia Canali wrote in this insightful post (which I linked to on Friday, but in case you missed it), take it easy and do a few things well.

Update! Check out what Meg posted this morning over on A Practical Wedding!

Mood: classic sophistication, elegant whimsy
Palette: ivory and evergreen

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Top row from left: tea-length Oscar de la Renta dress from Martha Stewart Weddings, shoes and birdcage veil photo by Jose Villa, olive branch heart via Cafe Cartolina, miniature panettone favors from Martha Stewart Weddings with letterpress tags by Austin Press
Row 2: bay leaf garland from Martha Stewart Weddings via The Bride's Guide, chapel photo by Mark Staff, white rose petals photo by Jonathan Canlas
Row 3: laurel-wreath table number from Alison Events, cake with greenery decorations photo by Jose Villa, whimsical calligraphy by Betsy Dunlap, wreath "bouquet" from Martha Stewart Weddings via The Bride's Guide

Board #445: Baby It's Cold Outside

Gosh it's starting to feel like winter, even here in Austin. We actually did have a tiny bit of snow on Friday, which was so exciting - there's always something a little magical about snow flurries. Then on Saturday, my honey and I went to a friend's house and decorated cookies and watched Home Alone. And of course I've been listening to Christmas music since before Thanksgiving (I know! I couldn't help myself!). Anyway, I thought that since we're well into December, it would be fun to do a week of winter wedding inspiration boards. First up, a winter wonderland of cold white and sophisticated blue, with a few touches of silver glitter.

Mood: quiet winter chic
Palette: snow white, silver ice, royal blue

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Top row from left: snow bride photo by Kdog Photographers, royal blue stilettos photo by Jose Villa, cake with silver crown topper photo by Elizabeth Messina, snowy farm photo from Martha Stewart
Row 2: white flowers and votive candles via Daisy Pink Cupcake, blue birds and holly invitation suite by Austin Press
Row 3: blue settee photo via Design Shimmer, white chocolates and teacup from Martha Stewart Weddings, sparkly headband by Jennifer Behr, peony bouquet photo by Jose Villa

I also just had to share this bit of wonderful news. My cousin sent out an email on Saturday night to everyone in our family, announcing that she and her boyfriend would be getting married the next day! So in case she happens to stop by Snippet & Ink: Congratulations Barb and Mike! I love you!

Board #442: The Red Piano

The color red and I have a funny relationship. I avoid wearing it and using it in my personal decor, and I especially dislike red flowers, but then I see it in places where no other color would do, and it surprises and charms me. Red lipstick on a bride (the perfect accessory!), red letters on a bistro chair, a shockingly red door or piano. But it's a dramatic color, so use it wisely - perhaps against a crisp white backdrop as I've done here. Though I love the bride's red lipstick, I've imagined her carrying a bouquet of white flowers and some foliage. Red ranunculus have made their way into the centerpieces, but the gorgeous porcelain vase by Frances Palmer has enough personality to hold its own (you'd better believe this woman's work is going on my registry). Though I think this palette could work well in most seasons, right now I can't help but think of it as a cheery color scheme for a snowy winter wedding - appropriate for this first day of December, don't you think?

Mood: cheery and charming
Palette: lacquer red, snow white

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Top row from left: Jenny Lee dress from Martha Stewart Weddings, bistro chair photo via Sunday Suppers, "quilted" wedding invitation by Prentiss Douthit, IKEA tea towels via The Kitchn
Row 2: red velvet layer cake via The Bride's Guide, red piano from Martha Stewart Weddings, bouquet with white roses and snow berries photo by Clark + Walker Studio
Row 3: red ranunculus in a vase by Frances Palmer, red door photo by Love Life Images, white chocolate wedding cake favors from Martha Stewart Weddings, blind letterpress save-the-date by Alee & Press

Board #440: Kumquats & Orchids

I know it's still the middle of autumn, but I was so inspired by this orchid and kumquat and couldn't wait to create a chic winter wedding board with it in mind. Crisp white is the perfect backdrop for this unique winter palette of evergreen and orange. Though it's not a minimalist look, the details are simple and not over done. It balances classic and modern, for a timeless yet updated look. If you wanted to add a holiday touch to this winter wedding, without being too obvious, unembellished white crackers would be a good choice.

Mood: modern elegance, winter chic
Palette: dark evergreen, white orchid, kumquat orange

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Top row from left: centerpiece with orchids and kumquats and green wedding invitations both from Martha Stewart, modern orchid centerpieces from Wedding Style Guide, kumquat boutonniere photo by Blonde Tulip
Row 2: white bridal headband from Brides, cascading orchid and vine bouquet from Martha Stewart Weddings, floral gown by Reem Acra, escort cards with jasmine display from Michelle Rago
Row 3: green and white ring pillow by Maihar Design, calligraphy favor box from Martha Stewart Weddings, kumquat arrangement and citrus desserts photo by Aya Brackett, Location 05 modern loft studios

Board #326: Love and Warmth (and a winner...)

First off, since I still haven't heard from the winner of the Beau-coup giveaway, we've got a new winner! Bo who said, i love the whole leaf tea sachet favors. they are in such elegant pyramid shaped boxes with a leaf sticking out on top. i picture them being used as favors in a winter wedding with a lunch reception, along with vintage teacups. Bo, email me to claim your prize!

I know we had a whole week of winter wedding boards last week, but how could I resist a snowy log cabin, deer-topped cupcakes, and kissing in the snow! In my mind, this intimate wedding takes place at a cozy inn, with a day of cross country skiing followed by a ceremony (maybe a short one outdoors!) and a reception full of cookies and eggnog.

Mood: warm and cozy
Palette: eggnog, nutmeg

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Top row from left: bride photo by Aaron Almendral, note basket from Better Homes and Gardens, silhouette cookie photo by S&J Photo, log cabin photo by James Carriere
Row 2: eggnog, bouquet from Martha Stewart Weddings, votive and basket of flowers both from Matthew Mead
Row 3: pearl ring photo by Jessica Claire, cupcakes by Baked NYC via Creature Comforts, invitations from Martha Stewart Weddings
Row 4: notecards by Moderncard, bouquet from Brides, kissing in the snow photo by Grazier Photography, yellow bedroom

Be sure to stop by tomorrow for the first installment of the 2008 Snippet & Ink gift guide!

Board #325: Let's Be Jolly

I'm so sorry for such a late post today - I just got back from New York late last night, and have so much catching up to do! Anyway, I thought we'd end our week of winter wedding inspiration with red and white - peppermint sticks, pomegranates and seeds, poinsettias, and a hit of red lipstick of course. This one might be a little too Christmas-y for a wedding, but it could certainly make for a sweet holiday party!

Mood: cheerful cocktail party
Palette: snow white, cranberry red

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Top row from left: Alberta Ferretti dress from Martha Stewart Weddings, shoe photo by Elizabeth Messina, apple tartelettes from Tartelette, fireplace ceremony from Loft Eleven
Row 2: bellini photo, snow photo and lily bouquet both from Martha Stewart Weddings, poinsettia place setting from Better Homes and Gardens
Row 3: evergreen window boxes, snowflake cake and pomegranate seating cards all from Martha Stewart, sleigh from Brides
Row 4: calligraphy by Tara Jones, white chocolate dipped peppermint from Sweet Paul, lily centerpiece by Michelle Rago

Board #324: I'll Have a Blue Christmas

When it comes to the holidays, I'm pretty traditional as far as decorations go, but for day three of our winter wedding inspiration and I just couldn't resist the Tiffany blue tree from Cottage Living. And a silver jingle bell that's actually from Tiffany's? Perfect! I imagine this wedding to be simple and charming, with a reception of cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and dessert.

Mood: charmingly whimsical
Palette: Tiffany blue, gold, silver, cream

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Top row from left: blue and white Christmas tree via This is Glamorous; Tiffany jingle bell, Oscar de la Renta dress and centerpiece (with table number by May-Bell) all from Martha Stewart Weddings
Row 2: ranunculus via Decorology, cupcakes from Cannelle et Vanille, ring pillow from Martha Stewart Weddings, numbered table runner
Row 3: photo via Design Editor, monogram neckties from Martha Stewart, bouquet by Mindy Rice from InStyle, aquamarine ring from Twist
Row 4: knit shell from J.Crew, ornaments via Lily G, invitation via Once Wed, cheese buffet from Martha Stewart Weddings

Board #322: All is Calm, All is Bright

I thought I'd get in the holiday spirit with a week of winter wedding inspiration boards. Today's board is not just a warm and wintry wedding, but it's also a new look at pink and green. I imagine this wedding taking place at home in the depth of a snowy winter, with lots and lots of candleglow, and touches of greenery in the details. Greet guests with miniature cups of hot chocolate and marshmallows. Set the ceremony up at the fireplace - even if it's not a working fireplace, you can fill it with large candles, line the mantle with them too, and light those. Give your attendants cardigans (personalized with their initials) to keep warm.

Mood: warm, light
Palette: pastel pink, pale yellow, boxwood green

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Top row from left: hot chocolate with homemade marshmallow from Martha Stewart Weddings, veil by Rosa Clara, favor boxes from Martha Stewart Weddings, snowy house photo by Cameron Purdy
Row 2: photo from Martha Stewart Weddings, fireplace altar from Wonderful Grafitti, typography by Jessica Hische
Row 3: topiary banner from Martha Stewart Weddings, shoe photo by Jamie Grenough, boxwood wreath cake from Martha Stewart Weddings, peach bouquet from Rebecca Thuss
Row 4: dress from Martha Stewart Weddings, candle centerpieces from Red Orchid Design, shortbread cookies from Martha Stewart Weddings, green tie from Brides

Board #311: Winter Whimsyland

We've had flurries twice so far, and the temperature is way down, so I thought it might be time for a winter wedding board. I'm not quite ready to go all out with snowflakes and pinecones; instead I thought I'd ease into the season with fresh green in the form of wheatgrass centerpieces and a moss wreath, and bright white in the form of cable-knit details. Winter weddings lend themselves to being more formal than in other seasons, but I wanted to keep this one playful with things like pinwheels, cupcakes and and a gold polka-dotted dress.

Mood: playful, winter
Palette: grass green, white

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Top row from left: front door from Martha Stewart, bouquet by David Stark, cupcake photo by Craig Paulson, cable-knit bride and groom from Brides
Row 2: miniature caramel apples from Martha Stewart Weddings, veil by Melissa Sweet, heart seating cards photo by Jeff Tisman via Brooklyn Bride, bouquet via The Bride's Guide
Row 3: wheatgrass and ornaments, knit ring pillow from juicyyumburger's flickr, paper pinwheels from Elsje Designs via Kim Gray, Lucienne dress from J.Crew
Row 4: cable-knit invitation by Linda & Harriett, wheatgrass centerpieces via Lovely Little Things, cookie buffet by Rebecca Thuss

Board #294: Playful Poppy

Oh, I love red when it doesn't take itself too seriously. Cherry red. Poppy red. Paired with cream and a few touches of the palest pink, red is playful and cheerful, rather than overly dramatic. I imagined a winter wedding when creating this inspiration board, but I think this palette could easily be translated into a spring or summer wedding. The yarn-wrapped vase by Paul Lowe is a simple detail that adds so much texture and interest, and I think a yarn-wrapped bouquet stem would work here, too. A variety of fun patterns adds to the playfulness of this look.

Mood: whimsical, bright
Palette: poppy red, cream, touches of pale pink

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Top row from left: calligraphy by Linea Carta via Brooklyn Bride, flower veil by Ellen Christine Millinery via Little Winter Bride, cake from Martha Stewart Weddings, getaway car photo by Drew B via The City Sage
Row 2: yarn-wrapped vase from Sweet Paul, photo by Whitebox Weddings, red table setting from Martha Stewart Weddings via Once Wed
Row 3: Lara Helene dress from Brides, milk and cookies favors from Martha Stewart Weddings, ring pillow by Twigs & Honey, boutonniere via Brooklyn Bride
Row 4: flowers by Custom Event Group, stationery by Poppies for Grace, chihuahua and striped skirt, bouquet by Chelsea Fuss via Once Wed

Board #278: Budget Friendly #10, Winter Wonderland

Holding your wedding on an off-day, or in the off-season, is a great way to save. You'll have an easier time negotiating prices with vendors on a Friday than on a Saturday, and certainly in the winter than in the spring and summer months. Seasonal elements are also key to sticking to a budget, and there are so many lovely details that are unique to a winter wedding.

Who says...you have to get married in June?

Mood: winter sophistication
Palette: evergreen, shades of brown, white

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Top row from left: altar via Elizabeth Anne Designs, cupcakes photo by Frances Photography, calligraphy by Tara Jones, winter bride from Martha Stewart Weddings
Row 2: pinecone boutonniere by Jo Gartin for In Style Weddings, the War Memorial Green Room via Weddingbee, photo by Tiffany Aicklen
Row 3: customized matchbooks by Amber Chic, gloves from Martha Stewart Weddings, candle centerpieces from Red Orchid Design, photo via Cannelle et Vanille
Row 4: ice candles from Mi Mi Design, crabcakes from La Gentille Bonne, pinecone escort cards photo by Carol Masica, blusher veil from Martha Stewart Weddings

The Paper: Having a calligrapher write out invitations in your favorite script is a formal and elegant option that is significantly cheaper than going through an entire graphic design process. Instead of letterpress, probably your most expensive option, go with offset or thermography which can be just as beautiful and are certainly significantly cheaper.

The Fashion: A long-sleeved dress is perfect for a winter wedding. Accessorize with a pair of vintage short gloves borrowed from your mother or grandmother, or found at an antique shop, and a second-hand blusher veil. To go with the season, the groom could wear a sweater vest under his jacket, which he could easily wear again after the wedding.

The Decor: Seasonal floral options are limited in the winter, but not to worry! Candles are cheaper than most flowers, and en masse they create a warm and romantic atmosphere. Branches, evergreens, and pine cones are all great non-floral options. For some color, spray paint branches or pine cones gold or silver, or something completely unexpected, and group them together for a winter centerpiece. Finally, by choosing a beautiful venue, you'll have less decorating to do, so that might be a place to consider splurging.

The Flowers: Forgo the floral bouquet and boutonnieres, and instead go with what's in season. Carry a crescent wreath of evergreen, or even a fur muff, and make boutonnieres out of pine cones or a sprig of mistletoe. Not only will you save by going with what's in season, but you'll create a look that works with a winter setting.

The Food: Again, go seasonal (this is a good budget tip for any season, not just winter). Take advantage of ingredients that aren't as readily available the rest of the year, such as Alaskan king crab, squash, and cranberries. For dessert, serve cupcakes in a variety of your favorite flavors, keeping them relatively simple to keep costs down. To warm your guests up, set up a hot cocoa buffet, where they can customize cups of hot chocolate with whipped cream, spices, or a peppermint stick - and if you want this to be your signature cocktail, you might include Kahlua or crème de menthe as an option, too!

Other Details: With so many candles lighting up your venue, customized matchbooks are a great favor for a low price. You can find them at For Your Party for about 50-cents apiece, or check out this free printable matchbook notebook cover by the fabulous Ez of Creature Comforts.

Splurges: If you go with the calligraphed invitation, it makes sense that your envelopes would be calligraphed as well - for $1.50 to $4 each depending on the calligrapher that you choose, it might be a splurge that you go for.

For Free: Before your wedding, sign up for a free makeover at your favorite cosmetics counter. You'll probably have to buy a few pieces of makeup, but the makeup artist can create a look for you for your wedding, and often give you a makeup sheet to take with you and re-create the look on your own. Practice a few times before the wedding, though, to make sure you're comfortable doing your own makeup.

Real Wedding Inspiration: Amanda & Matt by Jessica Johnston, and Amanda & Brett by Laura Novak

Board #64: Let it Snow!

We had our first flurry of snow the other night, which inspired this board. Whether in a rustic lodge or a clean white banquet hall, this snowy wedding is warm, cozy and chic.

Mood: warm, chic
Palette: warm white, chocolate

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Top row from left: image by Aaron Almendral, bouquet from Brides, Fresh Studio seating cards via Oh Happy Blog, milk and cookies via Le Tartine Gourmand
Row 2: flowers and cake both from Brides, boutonniere from Fresh Studio, monogram from MS, photo from Alan Maudie
Row 3: candy and birdhouse both from Brides, lanterns via Classic Bride, table via An Excited Bride
Row 4: snow bride, Taste desserts via Style Me Pretty, photo from The Knot