Why You Need a Sweetheart Table

On your wedding day, you'll be surprised to learn that you won't get much one-on-one time with your husband to be.  From hair and makeup to bridal party photo sessions to playing hostess, the bride is the center of attention.  On my wedding day, dinner was really the only time I got to spend alone with my new husband.  Our romantic four course meal was the highlight of my night, which is why I highly encourage you to have a sweetheart table too.  You will get to sit back and take in the whole room...not to mention share some romantic laughs.  If my experience doesn't convince you to have a sweetheart table...maybe these photos will.

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Poppin Bottles: Pink Champage

I hope you had a lovely weekend.  It is a two cups of coffee kind of Monday.  We celebrated Kaylin's first bridal shower yesterday and I cannot wait to share the gorgeous photos.  You will be blown away at all the pretty little details.  I don't know about you, but lately, there have been so many reasons to pop bottles of champagne!  Over the past month, I have attended my share of bachelorette parties, bridal showers, brunches, and house warming parties.  For those special occasions, I select Barefoot's Pink Moscato as my drink of choice or as a thoughtful hostess gift.  This bubbly is sweet, pink, and really sets the right tone for a fun time with your girlfriends.  Try this for your next gathering...or my Skinny Blackberry Cocktails are a great choice too if you want to hit it hard. 

Cheers!

Chic Ankle Strap Wedding Shoes

In case you missed it, Kristin Cavallari married Jay Cutler last week wearing shoes from her new shoe line for Chinese Laundry.  I find it hard to give her credit for designing these shoes since they are a popular style but nonetheless, I love them.  Besides, she was a stunning bride for sure.  Over the weekend, I did a little research to find similar shoes.  Here are the best of the best if you are searching for the chic look of a single ankle strap for your big day.

The original "Love" shoes that Kristin wore and designed for Chinese Laundry. ($129.95)

If I was getting married again, I would 100% pick these Blue by Betsey Johnson shoes.  ($99.95)  The heel is studded with crystals and the sole is Tiffany blue.  I just love the unexpected pop of color from a wedding heel with a colorful sole.

These blinged out, crystal encrusted "Realov-R" Sandals by Steve Madden are another great option. ($99.95)  Affordable and right on trend with a single ankle-strap, you can't go wrong.

 This Caparros "Eileen" ankle strap sandal is a hybrid of the options above.  It is ivory with a silver toe and rhinestone ankle strap.  The best of both worlds, it is also the most inexpensive option - on sale for $59.50!

I love the look of mixed metals, and these Via Spiga "Patsy" sandals do not disappoint. ($225, on sale for $112.49).  The metallic tones blend from a gold toe to a silver sky-high heel.  If you are gutsy and fashion forward, these might be the shoe for you.

 Which one would you pick?

One Tray Two Ways (Palermo Tray from Crate and Barrel)

As a wedding gift from the awesome team I work with, I received the Palermo Tray from Crate and Barrel.  It is an iconic yet modern wooden tray, and I love the clean lines.  Now that my summer patio is underway, I had the pleasure of using the serving tray for 2 outdoor dinner parties.  Here, I styled it two ways.

{Pink Peony and Assorted Nuts}

{White Hydrangea and Salty Snacks}

Do you have the Palermo Tray?  Which way would you style it?

Happy Father's Day!!!

Happy Father's Day!  I am so happy to celebrate the man who taught me how to count, taught me how to paint kitchen cabinets, and above all...taught me how to love.  My daddy is the most honest, hard working man I know, and he has influenced me in every decision I make.  In honor of all our special daddies, I have found a couple sweet shots of the father/daughter dance.  This special moment always...and I mean always...brings a tear to my eye. 

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How did you celebrate Father's Day?  Are you planning a wedding...if so, what song are you going to dance to with your dad?

Stunning Wedding Dresses with Dramatic Backs

The back of a wedding gown takes my breath away.  Details like a pretty bow, a long train and lace covered buttons are so subtle and so elegant, that they leave lasting impressions.  Really, they are the finishing touches that make you say "yes to the dress" and bring happy tears to your eyes.  Here are some of my favorite.

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What details are your favorite?  Is there something specific you are searching for in your dress?  I had my eye set on a low back with satin covered buttons...and that is how I knew I found the one.  What made you say yes to the dress?