stellina*stellina

loving this chandelier

2010-06-23T09:07:00.000-07:00

I apologize for being so MiA...and trust me when I tell you that I've missed sharing the love on StellinaStellina. I promise to figure out a way to share here and live this dream of mine...but until then...
I wanted to share this amazing chandelier I saw on Style Me Pretty this am by Jeff and Julia Woods Photography! Isn't it amazing???

SBC glitzpick inspired: Mexico inspired wedding

2010-05-26T17:57:00.000-07:00

My Santa Barbara Chic glitzpick was all about the bold! And since I'm loving the bright/bold colors of the latin world this week, I knew this versatile Ippolita ring would be a perfect piece! This wedding incorporate a colorful mix of red, turqouise, gold, pink and dark blue, perhaps held at a beachside hacienda or hotel. Guests would dine al fresco, complimented by individualized margarita bar. This wedding would be super festive, and last way into the night. Perfecto!

a little wedding blogger vacation comes to an END

2010-05-24T09:40:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday everyone! Last week, I took an unexpected, yet much needed break from wedding blogging (except, of course, for my Santa Barbara Chic inspired post). Today starts a new week, with a new round of wedding inspiration...{and} I'm excited to share with you what I've been up to, and how things are going.

Since this week is supposed to be so gloomy outside, I thought we all might need a little sunshine! All this week I'll be going Latin....so first...here are some long awaited top pics from my trip to Mexico last month:

Wouldn't this be a gorgeous wedding arch?

A contrast in colors (and my five seconds (literally) of model fame!)

Doesn't one of these sound great right now?

Perhaps a little sunscreen might be in order?

Yummy deep fried beach treats...mmmm. Thanks 36Thirty for these great shots...& for organizing such a great trip (can we go again...now???). Doreenie and Halli--xoxox always! More to come this week!

SBC glitzpick inspired: spanish inspired celebration

2010-05-19T10:12:00.000-07:00

This week's Santa Barbara Chic glitzpick necklace is bold and daring...perfect for the confident bride with a little edge. Designed by Jose and Maria Barrera, this jewelry invokes the vision of a spanish-style wedding in the country, complete with an outdoor Catholic mass, tones of faded turquoise and brick, and a decadent feast of olive inspired dishes. Imagine dancing the night away to the hypnotic sounds of an acoustic spanish guitar, followed by a night cap of decadent cigars. Muy Fantastico!

for the love of the wedding night: Strumpet & Pink bloomers!

2010-05-14T09:46:00.000-07:00

Underwear is Underwear...but these 100% silk bloomers from Strumpet & Pink are works of art. Handmade in Great Britain, each piece is truly unique and evokes a fun, playful vibe in various themes. Perfect for the shy...

...made for the frisky...

...these bloomers are great accompaniments for any bride and her wedding dress (not to mention perfect additions to the wedding trousseau).

You can purchase these gorgeous Strumpet & Pink bloomers, here & here & here.

photography: 1) urbantakeout 2) embelezzia 3) eve without adam 4) lingni-net 5) phillip a fioretti 6) threadme 7) petite coquette

thoughts from a passion-filled life.

2010-05-13T09:48:00.000-07:00

All that keeps repeating in my mind is: tired, tired, tired! *
It's amazing how exhausting working can become, especially when you're sort of doing three jobs in one. Having spent the first few months of this journey working from home...by myself...I had forgotten how demanding working at an office can become, both physically and emotionally. Now that I'm working from home AND working in an office, I feel almost overwhelmed sometimes with how much wedding information I have stirring around in my brain. *
Don't get me wrong...I love every minute of it!! But doing what you love in such a manner does take its toll! Like right now...my desk, my room...they look like war zones. I always think that I'll have an afternoon on the weekend to get organized, but then (as if in some perfect tradition), my weekend gets full. For example, since I've been out of town for the last two weekends, this Saturday and Sunday were supposed to be relaxation time, spent lounging by the pool with family & watching movies cuddled on the couch with my dog. Now...I'm heading out for date number 2 with a great guy, driving to Santa Barbara for alumnae sorority work and some wedding location scouting, and working to develop and create the remainder of this month's blog calendar. Oye! *
I AM tired, but there's no way I'd give it all up, or choose to slow down. I keep repeating the same vision over and over in my head--&, it's that vision that makes the piling laundry and physical exhaustion worth every second of the craziness. *
photographer unknown

daily wedding night cap.

2010-05-12T23:39:00.000-07:00

"The loving are the daring."
~Bayard Taylor
engagement photography by Brightwood Photography

SBC glitzpick inspired: victorian, sea glass wedding by-the-sea

2010-05-12T10:18:00.000-07:00

This morning's glitzpick on Santa Barbara Chic is all about sea glass, the gorgeous jewels formed from antique treasures tossed away years ago at sea. The jewelry, designed by GhostShip, invokes a feeling of peaceful-natural beauty, and immediately I felt a strong desire to design a Victorian-inspired beach wedding in tones of sea glass-blue, cream and white (with subtle hints of soft pink). The victorian era was all about restriction, so my goal was to create a wedding that felt Victorian, yet also felt peaceful and free. I would imagine this to be a small wedding (an intimate gathering of family and friends), perhaps held on the shore of a New England seaside estate. Guests would dine on Lobster, caught by the brides brothers earlier that morning, and sip champagne via the glow of old lanterns. Magical!

daily wedding night cap.

2010-05-11T20:18:00.000-07:00

"I love rain, actually."
~Bill Rodgers
engagement session photography by Kristin Joy Photography

foodie report. the wedding cupcake-32 flavors of desserts & counting

2010-05-11T09:49:00.000-07:00

Meet Ming Makes Cupcakes! 32 flavors of the most complex and flavored cupcakes you will ever eat. Before my journey into the wedding world, I spent one crazy summer in high school working at a chain ice cream store. For the sweets lover, getting a job that allowed you to take home $3.50 in ice cream each night was a blessing. For the teenage girl living in Los Angeles, the 20+ lbs I packed on in 3 months was more like a curse. Suffice it to say, I have a passion for sweets, which is why the wedding dessert is always at the forefront of my mind. Imagine my excitement, then, when I came across Ming's site. The blog itself is like an art gallery of dessert photographs combined with the efficiency of a recipe card catalogue.

Wait...Hate cupcakes? No worries! There are cookie recipes & savory scone and muffin recipes, too!

This blog is perfect for the foodie bride or groom looking to DIY your wedding desserts. With 32 unique cupcake flavors to choose from (my fav? number 18: Sour Cream Apricot Cupcakes with Marscapone frosting & Toasted Almonds shown above), you're sure to find a treat to satisfy bride, groom, & wedding guests alike! Visit this amazing blog-your guests will thank you!

daily wedding night cap.

2010-05-11T00:20:00.000-07:00

"Many are the stars I see, but in my eye no star like thee"
~English Saying
wedding photography by Turn Loose the Art

Kelly Oshiro Events weds a new look and name!

2010-05-10T08:15:00.000-07:00

Good morning blog fans! The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and it's another beautiful day in the world of weddings. Over the weekend, one of the best wedding and event designers launched a brand new company logo and brand, and I have to say I'm loving the new design.

Introducing...Kelly Oshiro Design (formally Kelly Oshiro Events). Check out the new webpage, and new blog, here (and for those of you who haven't seen the blog yet...every Tuesday is Shoesday! Get a look at some of the best designed shoes you'll ever see [perfect for your upcoming wedding!]).

daily night cap.

2010-05-07T22:39:00.000-07:00

"Love one another and you will be happy. It's as simple and as difficult as that."

~Michael Leunig

wedding photography by Missy Cochran Photography

for the love of the wedding night: Javier VallHonrat

2010-05-07T08:05:00.000-07:00

Brides spend hours (and perhaps years) attempting to find the perfect wedding dress. But what's often overlooked is the importance of your wedding night "look", including the boudoir intimates underneath that glowing bridal gown. Photographer Javier VallHonrat truly captures the beauty and sensuality of all parts of the wedding outfit in these breathtaking photographs. Stunning!

daily night cap.

2010-05-06T23:39:00.000-07:00

"A hundred hearts would be too few, to carry all my love for you."
~Anonymous
Bouquet and Bridesmaid Photographed by Melissa Diep Photography

thoughts from a passion-filled life.

2010-05-06T10:07:00.000-07:00

Here we are...another Thursday, and I'm forcing myself to contemplate life. And this morning, I'm somewhat resisting have to admit what I think needs to be said. As anyone having lived through an intentional life transition might attest, part of moving forward requires letting go. Throughout my life, the universe seems to always supply what I've needed. In college, that desire was for a feeling of validation--that I had something to offer the world beyond my simple existence. That validation came through the leadership opportunities in my sorority, and I've been forever attempting to repay my gratitutde ever since. Last year I was asked to be part of an amazing committee dedicated to educating and empowering our sororoity women, and I've had the most amazing and personally empowering experience over the last year as a contributor to this team. Yet...here I am, embarking on a major life transition, and I find myself at a point where I'm letting my committee members down in my commitments, as the result of a new life/work schedule that leaves very little time for much beyond all-things-wedding. Admittedly, I've always had difficulty saying no or moving-on, which often creates procrastination and disappoint. And despite every personal intention not to, I seem to have done it again. For those I've let down, I truly apologize. Please know...while not reflected in my actions, I've forever grateful and humbled for getting to be in the presence of such amazing women.
photograph by onelovephotography

daily night cap.

2010-05-06T00:52:00.000-07:00

"You call it madness, but I call it love!"
~Diane Arbus
photography by Jessica Stout

glitzpick inspired: peach/grey beach

2010-05-05T21:06:00.000-07:00

When I first laid eyes on the Alexis Bittar bangle that I featured this morning on Santa Barbara Chic, my immediate thought was seaside elegance. The colors are so bold, yet so subdued...similar to the feel of an afternoon by a beach in the middle of summer. The color of grey and peach offer a softness to the opulent nature of this wedding's details....and I don't know about you, but I'm dying to get an invite to this wedding!

foodie report: the BIGGEST cupcakes (and desserts) in the world

2010-05-04T09:10:00.000-07:00

...and perhaps the most expensive!

Isn't this amazing?! A few weekends ago my family and I took a drive down to Malibu for an afternoon at the beach. On the way home, we stopped by one of my favorite dessert hot-spots, Malibu Kitchen and Gourmet Country Market. While the market itself is jam packed full of specialty food, sandwiches, and old-time candies, what stood out the most were their amazing cupcakes and frosted treats!

Can you see the amazing gummi-bear yumminess in the top left of the case?! Delish!

Chocolate mouse...berry tart...walnut carmel cheese torte?! Oh my! What a great way to spice up the wedding cake tradition with something you might actually order with your sweetie on a Saturday night. Mmmmmm. Be sure to check out these sweet treats on your next trip to Malibu.

daily night cap.

2010-05-03T20:55:00.000-07:00

"My bounty is as boundless as the sea, my love as deep; the more I give to thee the more I have, for both are intimate"

~Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet

photograph by Beaux Arts Photographie

sleepy monday

2010-05-03T08:21:00.000-07:00

The Brass Petal did an amazing blog this morning about beds...amazing for the beauty, not so amazing for a tired woman on Monday morning. Remember the days of being a little girl and dreaming of a flowing canopy bed? Yeah....they make them for adults, and these are probably the most beautiful you will ever see. Check it out! In the meantime, I'm off for another long day immersed in weddings...yippee!
photograph via pia jane

daily night cap.

2010-04-30T20:01:00.000-07:00

"Love makes your soul crawl out from its hiding place."

~Zora Neale Hurston

photography by Steve DePino

for the love of the wedding night: Shibue, the miracle strapless panty!

2010-04-30T06:52:00.000-07:00

She's wearing one...are you? For all of you who've ever dealt with the oh-so-annoying issue of a panty line (hello bridesmaids!!!), the solution has finally arrived! Meet your new best friend, The Shibue Strapless Panty.

It's easy to apply and take-off, completely indiscreet and comes in three colors (black, nude & red).

Amazing! Make sure to visit their website for a simple tutorial by the designer, Jenny Buettner!
photographs: 1)fashionroar 2) Shibue 3)Luxemix

daily night cap.

2010-04-29T21:50:00.000-07:00

"Where there is love, there is life."
~Gahndi
photograph by Lilia Photography

thoughts from a passion-filled life.

2010-04-29T11:32:00.000-07:00

This post is perhaps my first intentional opportunity to sit down and reflect about this crazy journey thus-far, and believe me when I tell you I've somewhat been dreading it. I've had so many mixed emotions over the last three months, from pure jubilation to shear terror, and I've been navigating this wedding industry with mostly enthusiasm and part caution. The fact of the matter is at the end of the day, I could look at wedding venues, lunch with industry professionals, and edit blog/magazine content till I'm blue in the face, and that passion alone is the only thing keeping me going. But there are some days when the fear of the "hows" creep in...how I'm going to make enough money to pay my bills, become financially abundant, own a home, and move-out of my parents house?! I have this amazing vision in my mind that I can see and feel if I close my eyes...I'm sitting on a grey velvet couch-lounger in my own 3 bedroom bungalow, reading the latest YWD mag with my two puppbabies in my lap (Frankie and his future brother Beans), waiting for my gorgeous and adorable husband to finish making breakfast so we can eat before our baby girl wakes up from her crib. Its an amazing vision that's so detailed I can feel the cold espresso colored wood floors, and marble kitchen counter tops, and....

ahhh...pure bliss.
Still...the "hows" stresses get so much sometimes that it makes it hard to breathe & last month I even went to the hospital, convinced I was having a heart-attack. The anxiety is insane, and on many occasions I've questioned my choice to make this crazy move at 30. Then again, I think about the alternative. I have never been one to stick with something that makes me unhappy (as can be evidenced by my 21+moves since 1998), and I refuse to stay in a career/job that is limiting and stifles my creativity. So for now, I balance my time as an associate wedding planner for Kelly Oshiro Events, and as the Executive Assistant to the Editor at Your Wedding Day. I'm also trying to grow my blog, and I'm in the process of working on an upcoming photoshoot with one-love photography and some pretty amazing LA staples. I have booked three clients for 2010 with Kelly, have assisted in an amazing photoshoot, visited some pretty outstanding estates and ranches in Santa Barbara, and toured the mecca of fabric stores in downtown. And...in just 4 days at YWD, I've attended planning meetings and site visits for some future YWD events, developed & edited content for our upcoming spring/summer 2010 issue, and have been in contact with some pretty amazing vendors! Seeing it all written down is pretty amazing...and makes me wonder how I keep up with it all (admittedly some days better than others). But as my faith teaches, the "hows" aren't really up to us. As long as I stick with passion, stick with those things that make me happy and help me grow, the answer to the "hows" will appear. I guess that's really all I can do for now. As Wayne Dyer reminds: "When you engage Spirit, your regain the power of your ultimate Source." And that is just what I intend to do.
photography: 1)GemmaCommas; 2&3) unknown(if these are yours, please let me know so I can credit)

daily night cap.

2010-04-28T20:57:00.000-07:00

"Age does not protect you from love, but love to some extent protects you from age."
~Jeanne Moreau
photograph by Halberg Photographers

SBC Glitzpick inspired: Magnolia ArtDeco

2010-04-28T09:48:00.000-07:00

I was immediately dreaming of champagne and yearning for a big-band celebration in old hollywood glamour when I cam across these amazing dangles for Santa Barbara Chic. I was somewhat torn between something a little art deco, and something with a little bit of modern whimsy, so I thought...why not combine the two?! It was definitely a little more difficult with this concept to find pictures than I had hoped, but overall the finished concept feels both romantic and warm as it does bold and brassy.

daily night cap.

2010-04-27T22:02:00.000-07:00

"Let yourself be silently drawn by the stronger pull of what you really love."
~Rumi
photography by Halberg Photographers

foodie report: another amazing Herriott Grace release

2010-04-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

For those of you who've been following my blog for a while, you know I have a huge obsession with the amazing hand carved kitchen products from Herriott Grace (see previous blog posts here and here). What's not to love love love about a company that was formed by a father-daughter duo who live across the country from each other, and wanted some way to share their lives and connect on a more regular basis. SO SWEET! The only sad part to this amazing story is that the company releases a very limited number of pieces at a time, depending on how much wood they collect and how much time they've got. This dumpling roller and mortar & pestle below, for instance, were part of a line released yesterday, and all but two of the pieces have already sold.

Wouldn't these make an amazing wedding gift or thank you present for Mom & Dad? Don't miss your chance to own one of these heirloom stunners! Be sure to check out their website (you can still purchase the two remaining pieces such as the cakestand at the top of the page), & don't forget to sign-up for their mailing list!

daily night cap.

2010-04-26T22:27:00.000-07:00

"Absence is to love as wind is to fire; it extinguishes the small and kindles the great."
~Roger De Bussy-Rabutin
photography by Belathee

this ain't like any other Monday.....

2010-04-26T08:29:00.000-07:00

So when someone starts a journey in following their dreams, it's hard to imagine just exactly how the stars will align to turn those dreams into a reality life & career. For me, I've been in shock at almost ever turn, but I'm happy to report that today begins an amazing new journey in the wedding industry. Drum roll...

Today is my first day working at Your Wedding Day magazine! Initially, I'll be working part-time and learning the ropes...but evenutally (and hopefully within the next 6 months) I'll be working full-time and immersing myself in a daily barrage of wedding industry design inspiration and details. Yippeee :) I'm so excited for the journey, and can't wait to live through this amazing new experience! And so it is*

daily night cap.

2010-04-23T21:35:00.000-07:00

"Love is blind, but marriage restores its sight."
~ Georg C Lichtenberg
photography by Belathee

a little love for the wedding night

2010-04-23T11:51:00.000-07:00

I've always found such beauty in boudoir and lingerie photography, such as this photograph above by Jeffrey Graetsch...

or this photograph by the amazing Jodi Barima...

or this one above by Markus Pritzi. For me, these photographs inspire a confidence and love of self beyond what's normally found in photography, simply because they honor and appreciate the beauty in all types of women. But...I'm an even bigger fan of couture boudoir lingerie collections and boutiques, and Faire Frou Frou, owned by the gorgeous Gail & Alison Rubke, is the ultimate in chic!

This mother and daughter team have made the romantic and intimate feel elegant and classy. Plus...they can make any woman feel like a lingerie model, especially for that oh-so-intimate wedding night! So...if you're in the LA area, be sure to visit their store. For those outside of LA, get your daily boudoir fix from their blog, Frou Frou Fashionista (all these photographs were found via their blog!).

the fireplace mantel

2010-04-22T12:03:00.000-07:00

For some reason, I've spent the better part of this morning ogling over fireplace mantels. I can't really explain my current obsession except to say that it's likely due to my fixation on this vision in my head of the perfect home, and having an amazing fireplace mantel is part of that perfect vision.

Fireplaces, too, are symbolic of many things, and have come to serve as a place where loved ones (families, brides/grooms, friends, etc) can congregate, contemplate and/or commit life, love, and the pursuit of happiness (and, oh yeah, pursuit of heat in the dead of winter!). Here are a few that I love love love. And...if you think you've got a better one, send me a photograph!

photographs: 1, 3, 5, 6 & 7) designsponge 2)gardenpartysisters 4)luxuryhousingtrends

daily night cap.

2010-04-21T20:48:00.000-07:00

"I think we dream so we don't have to be apart so long. If we're in each others dreams, we can be together all the time."
~Hobbes (of Calvin and Hobbes)
photography by carla ten eyck

glitzpick inspired: french opulence

2010-04-21T15:37:00.000-07:00

While the Ranjana Kahn necklace featured this morning on Santa Barbara Chic could mold to almost any style, for me it felt like something that would adorn the neck of monarchs. I knew that I wanted to pair it with this amazing Francois Boucher inspired dress by Carolina Herrera (a painting by Boucher is included in the board), and drew on elements of colorful french patisserie, fromage and overall culinary elegance. This wedding has a truly regal feel, and would incorporate long rectangular tables for guests, tall taper candles in golden candellabras, and his & her bride and groom throne chairs. Magnifique!

new glitzpick on Santa Barbara Chic

2010-04-21T11:30:00.000-07:00

It's Wednesday again, and time for another glitzpick on Santa Barbara Chic! And, later today, I'll be posting an inspiration board on StellinaStellina centered around the piece...get excited!

Vera Wang for David's Bridal?

2010-04-20T10:44:00.000-07:00

It's all the talk this morning in the wedding blogging world...but Vera Wang has collaborated with David's Bridal?! Starting with 20 dresses? Ranging in prices starting at @$600? There are soo many mixed reactions out there...some wondering if the designer with lose her couture edge...

...others praising her for boldly recognizing that great style should come at ever budget. I for one don't know where I stand, but what I do know is that Vera never compromises on the ethereal, and I have no doubt this collaboration will deliver the same.

Soo...until the yet-to-be-named line is revealed, fans (such as myself) can starting saving a little less and starting believing a little more that they too can one day own a beautiful Vera Wang masterpiece! What are your thoughts?! I'd love to know...

Photographs: 1) Zimbio 2) PassionforFashion 3) ME, via a visit to the Melrose Place flagship store

daily night cap.

2010-04-19T23:30:00.000-07:00

"If I know what love is, I know it because of you."
~Hermann Hesse
Photography by Orchard Cove Photography

monday should always begin with tutu's

2010-04-19T09:34:00.000-07:00

It's been a slow morning...and i must have had some sort of bad dream last night, because when I woke up I had this instant feeling of dredge and fear. weird. I spent all of my first few moments awake (you know...walking to the coffee maker, inserting coffee filter, walking to sink for water, etc.) contemplating the arduously funky mood I was in. And when I finally made it to the computer for my morning blo'wsing, I was instantly transported away from the funk with these amazing photographs taken by Tram Tan Photography.

The adult tutu's are handmade couture pieces by Gina Comeaux of Dainty Darling, who also makes infant and little girl pieces as well...(magical). I think these would make amazing bridesmaids gifts at a bachelorette party, don't you?

Below: the photographer in action, as shot by Dawn Garcia of Beautiful Barcelona, the genius behind the shoot concept, as well as the hair/makeup/set stylist extroardinaire.

Be sure to check out Dawn's blog and Tram's blog for more of these amazing photographs.

daily night cap.

2010-04-16T22:44:00.000-07:00

"I love you not only for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you!"
~Roy Croft
photography by Halberg Photographers

a photographer becomes a bride

2010-04-16T09:10:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love it when a simple lunch turns into an impromtu wedding dress shopping extravaganza...especially when it happens to an amazing wedding photographer who is getting her own turn to walk down the aisle?!?!

Meet Sara Wolfram of onelove photography...the wedding photographer turned bride.

"This is surreall...!"

The woman at Rose Petals Bridal Store was so gracious (especially since we practically stormed into the salon following our lunch next door at SweetSalt Food Shop). She let Sara try on everything!

Gorgeous bride-to-be!

daily night cap.

2010-04-15T22:11:00.000-07:00

"We are the leaves of one branch, the drops of one sea, the flowers of one garden."
~Jean Baptiste Henry Lacordaire
photography by onelovephotography

back from Mexico and ready for...doughnuts?

2010-04-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

Perhaps it's the fact that sweets are a far cry from the savory Mexican food I devoured over the last few days, but somehow I'm dying for some yummy doughnuts. But...not just any doughnuts..I'm craving the amazingly gourmet version as served at the best dough-nut-eria this way of the Mississippi: Top Pot's hand-forged-goodness!

wouldn't this truck be a nice surprise for your wedding guests following a long hard night of dancing and drinks?

yummy strawberry and lemon. They have donuts in almost every color of the rainbow!

handmade with love! Find your nearest store...quick!

see???? That's what I'm talking about. My favorite was the Pink Feather Boa (coconut, strawberry, and champagne? any day!). What will your favorite be? To find out more, visit here. And...thanks always to 36Thirty for the amazing photographs.

croquembouche for the sweet tooth

2010-04-08T11:29:00.000-07:00

I love cake! But...more than cake, I love croquembouche!

This French dessert consists of cream filled profiteroles dipped in carmel (and sometimes chocolate), which are then stacked into a magnanimous cone shape.

And, as if these sweet treats weren't decedent enough, the golden tower is then drizzled with sugar or carmel or sugared almonds or macaroons...or ANYTHING YOU WANT!

Yummy!
photographs above from: 1)CakeSuite 2)Flickr 3)Zested 4)Annica'sDeli & 5)GourmetTraveller

daily night cap.

2010-04-07T22:37:00.000-07:00

"So long as men can breathe, and eyes can see...so long lives this, and this gives life to thee."
~Shakespeare
Photography by onelovephotography (Congratulations, Sara, on your engagement!)

daily night cap.

2010-04-06T23:26:00.000-07:00

"Love makes your soul crawl out from its hiding place."

~Zora Neale Hurston

Photography by Belathee'

day 2 of Santa Barbara Chic, Bridal Style Revealed recap

2010-04-06T12:32:00.000-07:00

What's up for today? My showcase of my first stop of the day: Carolina Herrera spring 2010. AMAZING! But, don't take my word for it...see for yourself!

9 more days to register for Engagement Shootout!

2010-04-05T18:19:00.000-07:00

Don't miss this great opportunity...If you're engaged with a wedding date, live in the L.A. area, and haven't picked a photographer yet, this is the premier event for you!

Here's the skinny:

When: Thursday, April 22nd from 2:30 to 5pm or 5pm to 7:30pm
Where: The Sunset Restauranthttp://www.TheSunsetRestaurant.com/ in Malibu
What: Get photographed at no cost with some extraordinary photographers (up to 6 shooters will work with you for 15 minutes each.)
You Get: All your files from each photographer at no cost! A donation of any size to LETMESAIL will be encouraged: http://www.letmesail.org

The Catch: There is none! You get to test drive some really great shooters BEFORE you hire one with no strings attached.

Rules:Please RSVP to Jen no later than April 14th via email.
You must be engaged to be married with an actual date set
You cannot have a photographer already booked for your wedding.
There is limited space so please get your RSVP in soon tojen@jenosullivan.com

For more info, visit here!

Bridal Style Revealed, Take 1

2010-04-05T14:41:00.000-07:00

Be sure to visit Santa Barbara Chic today, tomorrow & Wednesday for our in-depth look at Unveiled-Bridal Style Revealed. First up, today, an overview in pictures. FABULOUS!

daily night cap.

2010-04-02T23:42:00.000-07:00

"Life is the flower for which love is the honey."
~Victor Hugo
photography by JoseVilla

Abbot Kinney...my new Disneyland!

2010-04-02T15:05:00.000-07:00

Moving back to LA after years of moving from city to city has enabled me to experience LA from the perspective of someone new to the area. It's as if I'm re-discovering all of the amazing places I forgot existed...case in point, yesterday's trip to Venice for a potential client meeting where I had the surprise of re-discovering Abbot Kinney! Abbot Kinney is the most adorable little street/neighborhood area in Venice Beach, full of amazing foodie restaurants, boutique shops and art galleries.

One such store?...French 50s60s is an amazing home decor/design/antique/gallery that specializes in french vintage items from the 1950's and 1960's (hence the title). But beyond the furniture and light fixtures, the space is truly a magnificent work of art.

Such as this hand woven, rope mural of a woman. The detail of this piece is indescribable (this picture does not do it justice.

Two amazing chandeliers.

Tchotchkes galore! Fabulous! I was so inspired by this gallery that I started taking pictures of everything in every store on the street...here are a few of my favorite's:

Gorgeousness everywhere...I'm definitely heading back soon!

Sneak peek #3 for next week's Unveiled recap

2010-04-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

3 more days till the 3 day expose for Santa Barbara Chic on last week's Unveiled-Bridal Style Revealed event. Until then, here's a final sneak peek for the weekend :)

daily night cap.

2010-04-01T22:27:00.000-07:00

"That love is all there is, is all we know of love."

~Emily Dickinson

photography by ErinHeartsCourt

Only 2 weeks left to RSVP for Engagement Shootout!

2010-04-01T10:41:00.000-07:00

Tell your friends...

Here's the skinny:

When: Thursday, April 22nd from 2:30 to 5pm or 5pm to 7:30pm
Where: The Sunset Restaurant http://www.TheSunsetRestaurant.com/ in Malibu
What: Get photographed at no cost with some extraordinary photographers (up to 6 shooters will work with you for 15 minutes each.)
You Get: All your files from each photographer at no cost! A donation of any size to LETMESAIL will be encouraged: http://www.letmesail.org

The Catch: There is none! You get to test drive some really great shooters BEFORE you hire one with no strings attached.

For more info, visit here!

daily night cap.

2010-03-31T20:32:00.000-07:00

"I am like a falling star, who has finally found her place next to another, in a lovely constellation where we will sparkle in the heavens forever."

~Amy Tan

Photography by Justin&MaryPhotography

sneak peek #2 for next week's Unveiled recap

2010-03-31T14:23:00.000-07:00

Only 4 days left until my recap of Unveiled: Bridal Style Revealed explodes on Santa Barbara Chic. It's loads of wedding goodness! Until then, here's my all time favorite dress from the Monique Lhuillier's Fall 2010 line, as displayed in their gorgeous Melrose Place salon.

disaster strikes before the morning coffee

2010-03-31T09:46:00.000-07:00

For those of you who know me...I'm addicted to my morning coffee. Even more crazy, though, is that I'm addicted to my morning coffee mug. I'm sure, then, you can imagine my disgust when I accidentally dropped my mug (along with my hot morning coffee) on the way to my computer.

AHHHhhhh!

So this morning, I went online mug shopping, and came across the most amazing website from Great Britain (thanks google search) called Not on the High Street, which has the most adorable mugs you've ever seen.

Wouldn't this be the most amazing wedding favor? Just fill the bottom with your favorite homemade cookie, and wrap in a cute little bag. Adorable!

How fun would it be to give these as a wedding gift? The typeface is so festive and flirty.

Who needs a cupboard, when you can his this adorable mug tree? And think...you can paint it any color under the sun!

Or, for the man without a plan...how about a little breakfast in bed, with the morning coffee? Talk about a great way to start the day! These are only just a few of the amazing mugs and gifts they offer, so please make sure to check out their website ASAP!

daily night cap.

2010-03-30T19:10:00.000-07:00

"Love does not consist of gazing at each other, but in looking together in the same direction."

~Antoine De Saint Exupery

Photography by Stephanie Ann Photography

Engagement Shoot-out with Jen O'Sullivan

2010-03-30T14:01:00.000-07:00

If you're engaged with a wedding date, live in the LA area, and haven't picked a photographer yet, this is the premier event for you!

Here's the skinny:

When: Thursday, April 22nd from 2:30 to 5pm or 5pm to 7:30pm
Where: The Sunset Restaurant http://www.TheSunsetRestaurant.com/ in Malibu
What: Get photographed at no cost with some extraordinary photographers (up to 6 shooters will work with you for 15 minutes each.)
You Get: All your files from each photographer at no cost! A donation of any size to LETMESAIL will be encouraged: http://www.letmesail.org

The Catch: There is none! You get to test drive some really great shooters BEFORE you hire one with no strings attached.

Rules:
Please RSVP to Jen no later than April 14th via email.
You must be engaged to be married with an actual date set
You cannot have a photographer already booked for your wedding.
There is limited space so please get your RSVP in soon to jen@jenosullivan.com

For more info, visit here!

spring flower chart on THE FULL BOUQUET!

2010-03-30T10:13:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but I have a hard time remembering the name of all the amazing flowers out there. Thankfully, we have websites like The Full Bouquet, that remind us in nice and organized little charts, like this! :)

daily night cap.

2010-03-29T21:14:00.000-07:00

"No, there is nothing half so sweet in life as love's young dream."
~ Thomas Moore

photography by Steve DePino

ottoman love

2010-03-29T15:20:00.000-07:00

I saw this gorgeous ottoman in an inspiration board the other day, and I couldn't help but melt! I can imagine drinking coffee and reading my favorite magazines here (and of course, in this vision, "here" is located in my imaginary Italian villa). I loved this ottoman soo much, that I went on a quest to find the most adorable ottomans out there (like this one below made out of studded pink leather):

If you don't have one of these in your home, you've no doubt seen something similar grace the pages of your favorite wedding or design magazine. The ones below are exquisite patchworked cowhide!

The glorious ottoman is not just a comfortable accessory for the common chair...it can become your stylish new coffee table or, even a chair itself.

Plus...it's one of the main ingredients to a successful reception lounge space!

Gorgeous!

Unveiled-Bridal Style Revealed teaser...

2010-03-29T13:14:00.000-07:00

Next week I'll be highlighting my day at Unveiled-Bridal Style Revealed wedding event this past Sunday on Santa Barbara Chic. Until then, here's a teaser for those who love a little wedding design torture :) Happy Monday!

Unveiled-Bridal Style Revealed

2010-03-28T10:03:00.000-07:00

If you're in the LA area, don't miss this amazing show today! I'll be there, scoping it out & taking pictures for Santa Barbara Chic, so stop me and say hello if you're there. Have a fabulous Sunday, everyone.

daily night cap.

2010-03-26T21:12:00.000-07:00

“I invented my life... by taking for granted that everything I did not like, would have an opposite, which I would like.”
~Coco Chanel
photography by mi belle

another strong & powerful woman!

2010-03-26T18:36:00.000-07:00

I've been inspired lately by strong & powerful women who work hard, and follow their gut. Kelly Cutrone is one of them, and her new book is all about following your passion and keeping strong. I'm waiting to buy it for next month's Mexico trip, but I encourage you all to get to your local bookstore and buy it! Amazing & fabulous!

do you bask yourself?

2010-03-26T10:37:00.000-07:00

imagine being the editor-in-chief of one of the top lifestyle magazines one day (Home and Garden to be exact), and jobless the next. how does one recover from that? especially in a market where publishing isn't necessarily opening any new doors.

Dominique Browning lived through the experience, and shares her continual journey post-HG in her amazing blog: SlowLoveLife. Her recent post? Questioning our ability to allow ourselves to be happy (even in the face of amazingly great life happenings!). I can definitely relate, and it surely made me take a step back this morning and "bask" in my own small successes over the last few months. Hopefully it will for you too.
photograph #1 by Sandra Lane

daily night cap.

2010-03-25T21:38:00.000-07:00

"I welcome the fear, knowing that if I wasn't feeling it, I would be in the wrong place!"

~Anon

gorgeous gems and their gorgeous meanings

2010-03-25T17:00:00.000-07:00

I love a little hidden symbolism, and love the idea that something inanimate can bring to life and represent feelings and emotions.

Sapphire, for instance, is connected to the eye, and known to represent joy and the vision of the future, whereas...

... the tigereye is said to attract clarity and love! To find out what your wedding jewelry gems might be saying, click here!

swag from the oscars=swag for your bridal party

2010-03-25T09:31:00.000-07:00

I love love love these adorable keys, and love love love them even more since they were part of the 2010 Oscar guest swag bags! Nothing like adding a little piece of celebrity to your day. I think the heart above would make a great bridesmaid gift!

Is your husband a professional poker player? Have weekly poker games with the guys?

What about the groom or groomsmen with an obsession for his Harley? These would be the perfect gifts! Check out all their crazy designs (+ find out about their custom orders), & grab your own here.

daily night cap.

2010-03-24T22:44:00.000-07:00

"The most beautiful things in the world are not seen nor touched. They are felt with the heart."
~Helen Keller

Photography by Carrie Patterson

my first glitzpic on Santa Barbara Chic

2010-03-24T12:33:00.000-07:00

Visit Santa Barbara Chic to see the entire post. So excited about this new project ( you all know how much I love jewelry!). Make sure to bookmark your browsers every Thursday....

daily night cap.

2010-03-23T21:20:00.000-07:00

"You don't marry someone you can live with. You marry someone you cannot live without!"

~anon

photgraphy: Lara Porzak

the ultimate love letter experiment

2010-03-23T11:13:00.000-07:00

why limit our letters of love to those we know...as we're reminded in my all-time favorite romantic comedy, Love Actually, "If you look for it, I've got a sneaking suspicion-love actually IS all around." Asia Wong agrees. And she's set out to share this sentiment around the world, in letters of her own love, sent to absolute strangers.

In her own words: "There are always connections between people, things to admire in people, trust that goes unnoticed, small kindnesses, shared silences. There is always so much to see, and there is always so much to feel. There is so much we don't talk about, so much we have trouble believing in....In the same way that art school training is training your eye to take in and process the world around you, to stop and notice things, to learn how to really see, I wanted to train my heart how to really feel."

Magical. Check out her journey here.

love notes

2010-03-23T10:56:00.000-07:00

I had the most amazing dream last night...you know, that dream where you're blissfully happy and totally in love? although i have yet to receive one, I love the idea of a love note. it takes us back to the days without computers and text message, when the only way to communicate across distance was through the written word. I'm going to spend today looking at love notes...how do we save I love you today?

#1. on a t-shirt, like these found on Dalloways?

#2. how about in chocolate?

#3. what about that all important question? or that all important celebration? Emersonmade has the answer in these adorable fabric floral messages.

#4. what about for the couple that's been through everything? after 25 years of marriage, what does the love letter look like? Like this...

On the night before your wedding, have a couple write a love letter to each other. Following the big day, deposit the letter into a safe deposit box, and have them re-visit the letters on their 25th wedding anniversary.

daily night cap.

2010-03-22T21:36:00.000-07:00

~bettershelter
Me: "enough said".

is it akward to ask: can we be friends?

2010-03-22T21:20:00.000-07:00

have you ever had the experience of meeting someone for the first time, and thinking..."man, I really wish I was friends with this person?" You know, where your trying to figure out how to ask if they'd be up to meet you for margaritas next Tuesday (and not for the purpose of discussing any sort of wedding)? Well, that's how I felt today with two fantasticly adorable potential clients! They were such a fun couple, who were totally real and got the bigger picture of the wedding process (plus, it doesn't hurt that they love love love a family-style, barn wedding + the joy of a great signature drink!)

As you get older, it becomes harder and harder to meet new friends...and for someone who just moved back to the area (an area where most of my friends have long since left), I sometimes wish I had more groups of friends around. But...what do you do if you meet people who you totally want to be your new BFF's? Is it possible to ask for someone's number without sounding creeping? I wonder what Martha Stewart would say?
photo by: Ross Whitaker

great coasters on twig and thistle

2010-03-22T09:21:00.000-07:00

happy Monday everyone! I about melted when I saw these amazing felt coasters highlighted on one of my favorite blogs, Twig & Thistle, this morning. Aren't they amazing?

Check them out here: Twig & Thistle

happy weekend!

2010-03-20T11:37:00.000-07:00

actually taking a weekend away from blogging. But, I didn't want to leave without sharing some inspiration that's really been keeping me going the last few days. Hope you all are enjoying a nice few days...see you on Monday!

"We loved with a love that was more than love. "

~Edgar Allan Poe

Photography by Belathee as seen on Brooklynbride

so i thought i was over cupcakes, until...

2010-03-19T10:49:00.000-07:00

..I met Frosted Cupcakery in Hollywood! Umm, can we say amazing? I really do think these are the best cupcakes I've ever had. This is the second store for Stacia Samartan (the first of which is located in belmont shores), and I must say I'm so glad they came north.

The store itself is absolutely delightful! Cute candy jars, bright modern colors, and a display case that is to-die-for. Plus, store manager Simone Dole and her employees are absolutely the most kind people you will ever meet.

To me, though, what's so great about the cupcakery is their support and collaboration with the local LA food truck scene. Every Thursday you can find LA's greatest food trucks parked right out front (including the infamous grilled cheese truck, which makes its rounds to the cupcakery parking lot on the last Thursday of every month).

If you're in LA, make sure to head over right away (I know I will!) For more information, check them out their blog {and} follow them on twitter. Thank you Sara for these amazing photographs! More to come later today as to how we even found this amazing place...

daily night cap.

2010-03-18T23:22:00.000-07:00

"All you need is love"

~John Lennon

photography by Sara Wolfram of one-love photography

a sneak peek

2010-03-18T17:33:00.000-07:00

Here's a little taste of the amazing wedding related project that I have in the works with Sara from one love photography! More to come on this tomorrow. Stay tuned!

spring in Chico

2010-03-18T11:41:00.000-07:00

I recently made a trip to my old alma mater, and couldn't help but be inspired by the gorgeousness that is spring in Chico. How romantic?!

daily night cap.

2010-03-17T22:33:00.000-07:00

I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past.

~Thomas Jefferson

photography by: JoseVilla

what would you do with more time: part 2

2010-03-17T17:23:00.000-07:00

sketch.

I've always wanted to design wedding gowns, and I used to sketch a ton. it's definetely on the list of things i want to accomplish in my life. And..one day, I really hope to own a signed sketch of a Vera Wang wedding gown.

sigh.

what would you do with more time: part 1

2010-03-17T16:58:00.000-07:00

baking.

I used to cook and bake a ton, especially when I had weekend mornings free. this apron from Anthro, and these muffins baked by Emily of CupcakesandCashmere, of course don't help the catholic guilt from stirring its ugly head.

sigh.

what would you do with more time?

2010-03-17T12:34:00.000-07:00

I happily awoke from a great nights sleep, to a postcard on the bathroom sink reminding me (from a conversation I had 2 weeks ago) that the power would be out for the entire morning. All this, before coffee. ugg. Determined to have a positive attitude, and without a real choice of alternative options, I sat down to start reading the 10th anniversary edition of Real Simple that I've been putting off to read due to lack of ME time.

How ironic, then, that the entire issue is about time (getting more of it, and using it more wisely). Even though I started reading the magazine thinking about all the things I needed to be doing but couldn't, I ended the power outage wishing I had more un-interrupted time. And although I'm working on a ton of projects today, I've decided to continue the ME time trend & take a few shorts breaks to share with you some of the other things I wish I could be doing if my power was still out. Similarly, I'm curious what YOU would do with more time. So I pose a question: If your power went out, and your phone went dead, how would you choose to spend an hour for yourself? Leave a comment, and I may just feature your idea in a future post.

daily night cap. a new blog ritual.

2010-03-16T22:29:00.000-07:00

I have an evening ritual that involves reading some inspirational words, and reflecting on the day I've just experienced. For me, it's a time to remember where I've been, and to make sure I'm staying focused on the life I want to lead. I've decided share this nightly reflection with you all, in a new feature on Stellina*Stellina: the Daily Night Cap. Hope you enjoy it!

The grand essentials of happiness are: something to do, something to love, & something to hope for.

~Allan K. Chalmers

Photo by Belathee Photography

behind-the-scenes on my first photoshoot (outakes)

2010-03-16T16:44:00.000-07:00

Buckets, buckets & buckets of flowers! We picked these up the day before, and they practically filled the entire back of the Uhaul van.

The shoot took place at the Stow House in Santa Barbara, and this was in the inside-front parlor. Here, Kirsten Ellis' assistant of Beaux Arts is helping stage the couple.

The rain showing its strength. Pools of water were starting to weight down the tarp.

Posing by the truck (I made her do this!)

Styling some plants.

Taking a break. This picture was mid-smile, and not mid-meltdown like it looks.

Putting the finishing touches on lighting. I think everyone was wondering if they rain would start-up again. Plus, it was freezing (our poor models were freezing!!!)

All that was left at the end of a great day! Be sure to check out all the real photographs from the shoot on Santa Barbara Chic and Once Wed. Thanks to Kelly and all our vendors for such an amazing day...looking forward to the next one!

behind-the-scenes on my first photoshoot (ribbon)

2010-03-16T09:24:00.000-07:00

I like to call this the ribbon monster. Seriously, this ribbon-canopy went on forever! 540 loops later, it turned into pure gorgeousness. But, before the pictures were shot, this ribbon gorgeousness wasn't so cooperative...more on that in a second.

The ribbon scheme was added to almost every part of the wedding set.

Here, on the drink table, the ribbons added a little something extra to the blank slate design of the porch.

The original cake stand had some ribbons too. But, in the end, Kelly chose (and rightfully so) to take them off.

It was supposed to be a hot day, so we had ribbon-inspired fans ready for all our heat-stroked "guests".

Back to the monster. While the ribbons were fairly easy to put together, the hanging of the darn thing was not so easy.

Since we used ribbon, and since it was a little bit humid, ribbon chains kept coming off and falling apart. We kept re-attaching them, and decided that stick pins or stitching would be needed next time. I love our model Megan's face here...!

behind-the-scenes on my first photoshoot (take#1)

2010-03-16T09:01:00.000-07:00

I know what you're saying, right? Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous! The bride, the groom, the decorations, the photography, the food...everything looks like it was a perfect & smooth day, right??!! ha! 3 words:

RAIN

RAIN.

The day looked mostly like this. At about 2:30, when we were supposed to be setting-up to wrap, the weather finally cleared and we were able to shoot the tablescape. Unitl 2:30, however, this gorgeous reception table area....

...looked something like this:

Awesome!

Really, though, it was a great day. And truthfully, even though Kelly and I both felt as we would have after working a wedding (feet dead, head jumbled, back out-for-the-count), I couldn't help but keep thinking how much I loved my life!

Check out Santa Barbara Chic for posts on the professionals pics! Next up....the decoration prep, top-to-bottom.

the big reveal

2010-03-16T07:44:00.000-07:00

Drum roll please......remember that big project I was working on with Kelly Oshiro? Well, I can finally reveal the finished product: a vintage, Anthropolige inspired wedding photoshoot. Featured on Once Wed yesterday, the concept was designed and produced by Kelly, and the gorgeous photographs were shot by Kirsten Ellis from Beaux Arts Photography. Gorgeous! Check out Santa Barbara Chic and Once Wed for the full details, including all the amazing vendors involved.

Later today, I'm going to give you a behind-the-scenes look into the crazy day, so stay tuned.

natural inspiration from seattle

2010-03-15T13:44:00.000-07:00

i heart seattle. period. for someone seeks to live in inspiration everyday, this would be the perfect place to be. everything in seattle is a launching board of inspiration...from the art disiplays & architecture, to the breathtaking scenery and neighborhoods....I want to live here.

Can you imagine this as your morning-coffee view?

Spring had definitely sprung.

the weather has taken its toll on the mailboxes.

as if the big redwood fence wasn't clue enough....classic.

this was amazing! the river meets the ocean here, and there's a significant height difference. So...to get boats to pass through, they have to raise and lower them here. We tried to see one come through, with no luck :(

And finally...this gorgeous pink tree + brick. Inspiration board from this to come.

mid-century modern meets 36Thirty

2010-03-15T13:27:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the seattle Magnolia district, and 36Thirty. In each of the different buroughs of Seattle, there are a plethora of architectural design-forms, all intermixed within eachother. Halli & Nick's home...mid-century modern, is exquisite. As a couple, their style is black/white/&grey-modern all-the-way, with surprising pops of design genius intermixed. This Magnolia sign above is about 12-feet long and is left over from an old chain of gas stations in the south. It was soo large it had to be shipped in two pieces.

I love this chair...it looks like something that would be on a the starship enterprise. Behind...a mainly design book display, organized in stacks by color scheme. Gorgeous.

My new favorite design magazine...I sat here for hours perusing through them.

Love this silver antler piece...there were amazing pops of black, white and silver all over the home, including various letterblocks of "n" and "h", & an old metal shoe form. I must have spent an hour walking around, looking at it all. Next up, the kitchen...

Despite the simple pallette, the house has a truly warm vibe. This picture of their kitchen island is the perfect example.

Music is always playing...especially when preparing the food (Halli is an amazing cook!)

I love this wall piece...I never knew that a "dash" was an actual measurement. Awesome.

Here is one of the "real" homeowners, patrolling the property.

These are just a few of my own favorite pictures, and Halli & Nick are nowhere near done with all they want to update in the home. Check-out their blog, 36Thirty, and follow them along on their great design journey! Thanks Halli & Nick for a great visit!

inspiration is everywhere in seattle

2010-03-15T13:02:00.000-07:00

I finally feel rested and normal again after a fantastic weekend in Seattle. I can't wait to share with everyone all of the amazing projects that are in the works from this weekend, including a re-branding of Stellina*Stellina and the blog. Until then, I'm going to share with you as much of the inspiration I experienced on the trip, as possible. UP first? the gorgeous interior design work of Halli & Nick Thiel. First off, this picture above...who knew a cabbage could be so gorgeous in an old canning jar?

Seattle or Bust

2010-03-11T10:46:00.000-08:00

T-minus 12 hours until I'm UP IN THE AIR headed to Seattle. I love love love this city, especially for all of the amazing boathouses, like the one above designed by MillerHull. It will be a weekend of product development, antique browsing, and Guacamora-style laughing. I've got lots and lots to do before I leave, so I'm signing-off until Monday. Happy Weekend, Everyone!

xoxo, Cynthia

its morning and I'm at the office

2010-03-11T08:31:00.000-08:00

Has anyone else ever experienced a morning where you're trying a new type of coffee from Trader Joes, only to realize upon first sniff that it smells somewhat like pulled rubber as opposed to the gloriousness you've come to expect? Welcome to my morning. With a trip to Seattle later this afternoon, and some bills coming due, however, I'm going to have to stick with it until it's done. :(

The coffee situation is annoying. But...the desk situation is ridiculous! Thank you Design*Sponge for turning me on to this crazy find.

Picture 1: the "large" steamer trunk.

Picture 2: the even LARGER (aka phat) steamer-trunk-desk. Yowzers! Now if only I had a few grand lying around...I'd be the first one in line at Restoration Hardware for one. And, because it's on wheels, imagine all the crazy things you could do with it! It could even be rolled out for a Great Gatsby themed wedding...think seating cards or signature cocktails station.

A girl can dream.

the new "working" lunch

2010-03-10T16:02:00.000-08:00

My favorite part about this new career is that I get to experience all of my favorite things, and call it "work". Today, for instance, I had a business meeting with Sara from OneLove Photography. But, instead of the usual board-room (or mildewy bomb-shelter at one past job), I got to talk future projects {and} conduct "foodie" research for my blog...all while getting friendly photography tips & tricks.

Our location today: El Criollo. The food? Cuban goodness.

First up? Ensalada de Aguacate (Avocado salad). A true cuban treat. mmmmm

We both had cuban delicacies for our main courses as well.

I had a Media Noche sandwich

Sara had Bistec Empanizado with Morro rice. DOUBLE MMMMMMmmmmm.

To finish? The perfect classic Mojito (and in true Cuban fashion, the rum was plentiful).

The decor was a mix of old school brick and mortar, combined with contemporary art/architecture.

All in all, the service was phenomenal, the inspiration was flowing, and we're definitely going back! Next time you're in the San Fernando Valley, check it out!

Post-post note: I think the waiter thought we were food critics. Mama brought out our food to us herself, and we got exceptional service. Might be a nice tip for future restaurant visits.

2010-03-10T10:48:00.000-08:00

i found this most adorable Pom-Pom necklace by Kathryn Blackmore , & was instantly obsessed with everything POM. See OCD session results below:

Isn't this wallpaper from WallpaperDirectUK amazing? I would love to put this in a guest bathroom or half-bath.

These flower-weeds shown on Domestifluff are super cheap and super gorgeous. This color is perfect for a fall or winter wedding.

i heart poms {and apparently so does Musings from the Fishbowl}