Looking to make a real statement? Well then, do yourself a favor and check out our DIY Video on Paper Pennant Bunting below for great ways to create a one of a kind look without a one of a kind price!
Both fun and simple, bunting is one of the industry’s latest trends to hit the scene, and we’ve made it simpler than ever for every bride to use!
Leave a Comment August 25, 2011
When a girlfriend at work (wad up, C-rock!) sent me a link featuring a finger-licking-good cupcake bouquet, I thought I had died and gone to heaven! I mean, c’mon! An amazingly colored rosebud bouquet… made of cutie pie cupcakes??? Um, yes please!
While we offered several options for alternative brides looking for their fix of unconventional arranging in Flowerless, DIY Wedding Bouquets, we did not include this double duty cutie, and after seeing some of the prospects below… I can’t imagine why! Just look at these mouth-watering treats! Some even rival the looks of the inspired flowers themselves! Bravo, bouquets, bravo :)
courtesy of (from top to bottom, left to right) littleruffledfeathers.blogspot.com, delishcupcakes.net, pinterest.com, brideandjoy.ie, morningglorybakes.blogspot.com via thecupcakeblog.com, delishcupcakes.net, littleruffledfeathers.blogspot.com, delishcupcakes.net, katherinesconfections.com, claudiaowen.wordpress.com and Eat My Shots
1 Comment August 11, 2011
courtesy of katiedayphoto.com
The use of parasols on a wedding day is hardly a new concept. In fact, it’s more than likely one of the oldest ones there is. However, with the modern bride growing trendier and trendier every day, the perception of the traditional parasol has taken flight and landed somewhere near, on or around amazeballs!
Not only do these bumber-shoot (what me niece calls them) beauties look and feel fabulous in photos, but they also pull double duty in the function arena, as well! Check out below for some inspiring ways to make your wedding soar with parasols…
Get Creative with Color. Use parasols opposite on or complimentary to each other on the color wheel to really make a statement drenched in “ooh la la!”
courtesy of (from top to bottom) stylemepretty.com, Amanda Cremona Moorefield, riweddingguide.com, katiedayphoto.com, katiedayphoto.com, weddingbee.com and weddingwire.com
All White is All Right. For the ladies-in-waiting looking something a little more classic, use all white parasols to create a look of crisp freshness.
courtesy of (from top to bottom) 2sistersblog.com, weddingbee.com, theknot.com and terrismithphotoblog.com
Divine Decorations. Use these ultimate umbrellas sprinkled into your wedding decor and transform an average shindig to a whole new level of hooplah!
Courtesy of (from top to bottom) big-wedding-tiny-budget.com, Google Images, pinkfrosting.com.au, blog.hgtv.com, blog.hgtv.com and pauljohnsonphoto.com
Parasol with a Purpose. Ideal for outdoor and destination weddings, hand these bad boys out as favors for your wedding guests to relax and enjoy in style.
courtesy of (from top to bottom) lunabazaar.com, sincerelyyoursonline.blogspot.com, perdekoop.co.za, theknot.com, snippetandink.com and apartmenttherapy.com
A Touch of Vintage Glam. When prints and lace are added to your parasols, they become an instant rewind for all things fabulously retro!
courtesy of (from top to bottom) jamiedelaineblog.com, ruffledblog.com, herecomestheguide.com, ruffledblog.com, ruffledblog.com, amorologyweddings.com and jenstewartphotography.com
Statement Pieces… literally. Encode and reveal your own messages for the ultimate of chic treats for your big day celebration!
courtesy of (from top to bottom) weddingbee.com, idooriginals.com and divadecorating.com
4 Comments August 4, 2011
courtesy of treschicbride.blogspot.com
When throwing a shower for one of my girlfriends awhile back, I came across a little recipe for “cake pops” and have been OBSESSED ever since!
Being the regular Betty Crocker (for those of you that know me, please hold in your laughter) that I am, I decided this would be an excellent choice for a festive dessert! And if I’ve gotta be completely honest… it TOTALLY was! (Subsequently pats self on back) I made three kinds: Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry.
Now, while these three flavors may seem like nothing all too impressive, it’s what you can do with them that makes them so incredible! After baking the three cake mixes in the oven (according to the box instructions), I simpled let the pans cool for about 15 minutes before crumbling each flavor into a mixing bowl and stiring in the same flavor frosting. (White w/ Vanilla, Chocolate w/ Chocolate and Strawberry w/ Strawberry.) After which, I balled the sugary goodness into small circles and covered them with candy melt toppings.
It took a little practice, but once I got the hang of it, it was super easy… and even more delicious! I topped the White Cake Balls with vanilla icing and yellow sprinkles; the Chocolate Cake Balls with chocolate candy melts and coconut, and the Strawberry Cake Balls with a melted white chocolate candy bar and pink candy heart sprinkles (my faves!). I placed some on sticks, creating a gourmet sucker look and the rest I left on decorative trays for easy, sweet munching!
There are several options on how you can create your cake pops / balls, but I have yet to find one I didn’t enjoy! Take a look below for some delicious inspiration and easy to make recipes (found below images) and start poppin’ your way to party goodness!
Choloate and Turquoise Dream!
courtesy of karascakery.com courtesy of Google Images courtesy of bzevents.com
Pretty in Pink!
courtesy of bakersroyale.com
Citrus-y Goodness!
courtesy of bzevents.com
Wrapped with Love!
courtesy of etsy.com
Turtle-Something Surprise!
courtesy of cakebybridges.com
Cupcake Cuties!
courtesy of thehappychickadee.blogspot.com
Designed by Darlings!
courtesy of camillestyles.wordpress.com
Lined with Perfection!
courtesy of thesepeasarehollow.blogspot.com
Sweetly say “I do!”
courtesy of etsy.com
Example Recipe Guide for Reference:
1. Prepare the cake mix according to package details, using any of the recommended pans for backing. Once cake is baked fully, simply crumble the cake while still warm (but after 15 minutes of cooling) into a large mixing bowl, and stir in the frosting until well blended.
2. Melt your flavored confectionery or candy melt coating in a glass bowl in the microwave or a metal pot over a pan of simmering water on the stove-top, stirring occasionally until at a smooth consistency.
3. Use a melon baller or scoop (or even just your hands!) to form small balls (use Dunkin’ Donut holes as reference) of your cake mixture. Then, either dip the balls into the melted pan of goodness using a toothpick or simply drizzle it on top using a spoon to coat each one accordingly. Place on waxed paper to set.
4. Decorate accordinly. Place on sucker sticks if desired. Refrigerate once fully cooled.
5. & ENJOY!!
1 Comment August 2, 2011
courtesy of marthastewart.com
A girlfriend at work (holler for a dollar, Carolyn!) sent me a link on deconstructed wedding cakes last week, and I have to admit, it had my mouth watering for cake before the sun could rise and you could question, “Cake, for breakfast??” With all the new (not necasarily improved) but super fun ways brides are choosing to divy out dessert on their big day, I was sooo glad to see deconstructed wedding cakes as one of them!
And don’t let the chunky, clunky name fool you, because these beauties are anything but! Not only can the sleeker, chic’er cakes have a crisper, cleaner look, but they can also be filled with a countless number of flavors, which their larger versions are often times limited to! Um, hello?? More cakes to sample?? Yes, please!!
Whether a bride chooses to do each cake a different flavor or a select a specific amount of tantalizing tastes to divide between the masses, these deconstructed darlings have an abundance potential that will have your head spinning. Some brides even choose to double them as centerpieces, which encourages guests to mix ‘n’ mingle while trying to uncover which table has the BEST flavor!
Oh, and did I mention that the cost for these un-tiered dreams can be significantly, less? Yeah, add that to the win column too, ladies! Haha! Check out below for even more, mouth watering examples!
Stick with the same theme and shape for a more uniform look…
courtesy of theknot.com
Play with textures, sizes and shapes to really create a unique look…
courtesy of bridalguide.com
Decorate your deconstructed cakes in theme or according to the season…
courtesy of projectwedding.com
When doubled as centerpieces, disassembled cakes encourage guests to get up and move about…
courtesy of baileysbrides.blogspot.com
Ideal for creating a rustic, do-it-yourself ambiance…
courtesy of featherlove.com
2 Comments July 26, 2011
photo courtesy of Lindsey Kroemer Photography
At Marilyn’s Keepsakes, we recognize the importance for the DIY bride to shine in all her shabby chic goodness! We also recognize, however, that she can’t shine fully if not provided with the proper tools. After all, not all of us our born killer crafters with do-it-yourself goodness infused into our DNA!
We can, however, own the right to fake it ’til we make it with our line of DIY Stationery. Among the most recent addition is our DIY Paper Pennant Bunting Kit! This do-it-yourself, dream project kit will leave your guests “oohing” and “awing” from the minute they step onto the scene to the minute they bid you adieu. Because of its versatile nature, this one of a kind flag banner ensemble really lets your creative side shine by garnishing all your favorite events with a personalized touch of charm.
And by kitting these items altogether in one, simple package, we leave the fun part up to you for making everything from outdoor weddings and baby showers to anniversary extravaganzas, birthday parties, holidays and more a little bit more fun and a lot more personal! See below for product details and decor options:
Paper Pennant Bunting Kit Includes:
When creativity reaches a lull, use one of our design options available on complimentary CD to re-inspire you! (courtesy of marilynskeepsakes.com)
1 Comment July 21, 2011
Modeled after our best selling program fans and shaped to curvy cutie perfection, our DIY Heart Fan Program Paper Kits are an ideal source for trendy brides to get really creative. Whether you’re hosting an outdoor ceremony or taking your guests on a dream destination, it’s easy to see why these fun, heart shaped fans are one of the wedding industry’s leading accessories for brides to la-Louvre!
And because each kit comes with a complimentary CD of designs (see choices below), brides can choose to edit one and make it their own or start from scratch for a wedding day original. It’s truly up to you and will leave your guests with a breezy attitude for your beautiful day!
Click here to pick up a set today or check below for an example of the designs featured on our complimentary CD!
All templates available on complimentary CD!
Leave a Comment June 14, 2011
photo courtesy of computerclipart.com
Don’t rub your eyes. You read the title correctly :)
A man cave, also known as a mantuary, is a male sanctuary found within a home, generally equipped with specialized tackle of the hardy-har-har variety. This includes, but is not limited to: sport’s paraphernalia, video game consoles, big screen TVs, power tools, hot sauces, beer, grease, glory etc… you get the idea.
Now, before you get ahead of yourselves, ladies, and think, “Why the heck would I ever want a man cave at my wedding?!?”, please allot me a moment to explain. Recently, I attended a wedding (holler Kelly and Matt!), where they had a man cave or more appropriately a man corner set up in the rear of the reception hall.
It was kind of like a kid’s table you’d see at someone’s reception today. Actually, it was just like a kid’s table you’d see at someone’s reception today – the maturity level at least, hehe! The only difference was the equipment.
Instead of coloring books and crayons, the man cave or in this case the man corner had blackjack and brandy. Mixed nuts and flavored cigars replaced the typical kiddy supplies of fruit punch and sugar coated candies, and right smack dab in the center of it all was a large – but not overtly cumbersome - air hockey table. Yes, I said air hockey. (They’re from Chicago; so, apparently the Blackhawks – and all that is holy – is engrained in their blood.)
The emblematic connotation of a man cave may make women leery of its presence, but let me reassure you that was not the case here! It was actually a huge hit and become a part of the reception rather than a distraction to it. And just think of the possibilities! You could sanction and supply your wedding day man cave however you see fit, and who knows?? It just may be one of your favorite spots too! — Goodness knows I was schooling kids with these mad, air hockey skills :)
2 Comments March 15, 2011
photo courtesy of flickr.com
Recently, a girlfriend at work (hollerrrrr Jessi!) attended a wedding, and after being impressed by the unique bouquet toss, she came in to dish the deets for The Best Wedding Blogger Ever – thank ya muchly, my dear!
At the reception she attended, instead of the bride throwing a traditional “tossing bouquet,” she threw a bouquet that split into several mini bouquets. Thus, providing more than one lady-in-waiting the coveted prize of “you’re next!” Obviously, la-Louvre-ing the idea, I immediately went into search mode to see what I could find.
While this kind of breakaway bouquet (also known as a fortune bouquet) hasn’t quite made a famed name for itself in the wedding world, it’s definitely a trend growing in popularity. Many brides who choose to take this option on keep the base idea the same: one bouquet splitting into several parts, but they also tag it with their own individual style as well.
Some brides will invite all their female guests - not just the single ones – out onto the dance floor and will either A) ask them all to make a wish or B) simply say that it’s a bouquet for luck, love or (fill in the blank) that everyone can enjoy.
I have also seen where other brides separate their entire bouquet into individual flowers and attach charms, fortunes, good luck ribbons, etc. to the stems; so, that each girl vying for a piece of that bridal gold will gladly do so.
It’s for sure an uber cute idea, and as someone who has made countless “walk ‘o’ shames” to catch the single lady bouquet, it most def makes it easier on any lady who begrudges the whole process!
So, put on your thinking caps, start tossing and spread even more joy!
photo courtesy of kai-photo.com
2 Comments January 24, 2011
photo courtesy of Google Images
So much of who we are is because of where we come from. Our past and all the people in it not only mold us into the people we are today but will continue to shape us into the people we hope to be in the future. Being a girl who comes from an extremely LARGE, extremely loving family, I can’t help but think of the old African proverb: It takes a village to raise a child. But perhaps this is because there are enough members in my family to be a village. Don’t believe me? Check out this beast from the Mister and me’s wedding last year…
And that’s strictly just my dad’s side!! Haha! Gotta love it :)
Anyhoot, if you’re a bride that’s anything like myself, you more than likely want to have a wedding day celebration that’s just as wonderful for you, as it is for all the important people in your life. Because without your village to support you, your life just wouldn’t be the same!! Haha!
One way to do this is by displaying flashback family wedding pictures for all to see! Heirloom wedding photos at the reception is not a new trend by any means, but all the ways brides are displaying them display is! Whether brides choose to just set up pics from the days their parents said “I do” or go all out and include grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, you name it… is strictly up to you!
The Mister and I chose to use pics of our parents’ and grandparents’ wedding days, which were set up by the entrance to ensure that every one coming in could get their blast from the past early :) I’ve also seen where other brides will actually use the cake cutting photos from their family photos to decorate their cake table or toasting photos at the head table. Really it’s up to!
Just be sure to have fun with it…. because I can gosh darn guarantee you everyone else will have fun seeing them!
4 Comments December 13, 2010
The BEST RSS Feed EVER!
