Favorite Fall Wedding Ideas

If I had to choose one favorite wedding season, it would be fall. It might have something to do with the crisp cool temperatures, aromas (pumpkin spice anyone??), or my slight obsession with textures (and the pairing of them):

Pillows: West Elm | Stool: World Market | Pink Stone Coasters: West Elm | Hammered Metal Decanter: Bed Bath and Beyond | Pretty Macaroons: L'extravagance | Fall Wedding Centerpiece: Jacin Fitzgerald

Colors: My go-to colors that are inspiring me right now are jewel tones with a touch of neutral + light pink. I think it keeps it ethereal while still adding the right amount of bold elements. 

Textures: Fall is your ticket to using all sorts of textures and patterns without anything looking or feeling too busy. Along with the more expected (warm) textiles like fur, I love the idea of incorporating other elements like stone or crystal to mix it up and keep it interesting. 

Gold: Need I say more? Gold goes with everything. Use it. 

Comfort Food: The fastest way to your guests' hearts is through their tummies. Take advantage of the cooler weather and serve both sweet and savory comfort food. Now is the time to get a little decadent and experiment with a menu that touches all of their taste buds. {And hot toddies are never a bad idea either}

Flowers + Foliage: Whimsical, natural, and textural. This amazing centerpiece by my friend Jacin Fitzgerald says it all. 

Beaded Wrap: Bhldn | Peaked Lapel Tuxedo: The Black Tux | Gold + Pearl Cufflinks: The Black Tux | Rockstud Ivory Pumps: Valentino

A fall wedding is also the opportunity to get jazzy with your look for the day. Statement pieces and bold accessories are such a beautiful addition. 

For her: Boleros and caplets are all great additions (both for style and comfort), but how about this stunning beaded wrap? And imagine, some killer shoes and a classic, ethereal gown. 

For Him: Who can go wrong with a black tux? This classic look is both dramatic and stunning at the same time. While suits became the norm of summer weddings, I'm looking forward to seeing more of this iconic look this fall season. Pair it with some eye-catching cuff links and I'd say this couple is camera-ready. I recently came across The Black Tux, an online tuxedo rental company, and was so excited to see quality, well-fitted tux, suit, and accessory rentals available to men wherever they're located. If you haven't discovered it yet, take a peek- you'll be glad you did! 

What are your current favorite trends or ideas for fall weddings? 

Xo,

Brandi

Office Inspiration

We've been in our office space for a little over a year now (same building since about 2011, but last September we moved into the basement level), and once the whirlwind of wedding season came to a close this year for us, we realized that we haven't done one thing with our office since our holiday party last December. As creatives, that's sad. When we moved downstairs, we were originally faced with two main problems: 1) the lime green and orange walls (thanks, Ampersand Girls! Muah!)  and 2) the added space and the fact that we had exactly one desk, 2 ottomans, and a conference table. The space we moved from was in the ballpark of about 200 sq ft (gotta start somewhere!), and our studio is now likely more in the 1000 sq ft range. We had a lot of ground to cover. So between September and early December of last year, we went on a buying spree to purchase as much as we realistically could (thank you, slow season) to at least make it look less like a 25,000 sq ft warehouse and more like a stylish wedding planning office.

Well fast forward to the end of October 2014 and I've decided it's time to start really personalizing this space. It was such a roller coaster season that styling the office was just the last thing on the list. In fact, I don't think it even made the list. So as I've gotten more in the office planning mood, I've already seen so many inspiring images that maybe one day our studio will grow into, and here are some favorites so far. Happy Monday!

xo,

Brandi

Via Cedarhillfarmhouse.com and Pinterest

Loving the reclaimed or vintage doors hung barn-style. Would love to do something like this to our extra-wide doorway leading into the main room of our office. 

Via Domaine

Let's talk about all the beauty oozing out of Lauren Conrad's newest Paper Crown office make over. It's the perfect marriage of eclectic and sophistication- this is exactly what we are aiming for in our office. Bring on the personality and style! 

via breakfastattoast.com and Style Me Pretty

With our great room being so expansive, and well, great, we are doing a little space planning on how to lay it out better. Considering moving all of our work stations into the great room with shared desk spaces to make better use of the area. And the chalkboard from designer Erin Gate's studio? That was totally the inspiration for our giant gold-framed chalkboard. We need to use it now, though...it's so pretty we never want to mark it up! 

via Praise Wedding

Definitely loving the mix of textures and patterns in this one! 

I'll be on a pinning spree over the next few months- feel free to check more inspiration out on our pinterest pages too! 

Friday Favorites

Happy Friday, lovelies!

I've been on a quest for more "me" in my life...and all of these things just spoke to me this week. Here are five of my favorites...what new finds or loves do you have this week? Happy weekend!

Xo,

Brandi

1. Julep Wedding Nails. Loving these shades for a big day | 2. Just feeling a little smitten with this gold pattern by Saffron Avenue | 3. These monogram cups are perfect for the cup of joe in the morning...Soirette Stephanie actually bought me one last year for my baby shower and it has become my favorite cup since | 4. Loving the newest patterns and palettes from Plum Pretty Sugar for BHLDN | These candles from Anthropologie are equal parts cheery and chic.

An August Soiree

{Sometimes, in the midst of planning weddings and parties, we find a spare moment to dream up our own perfect iconic wedding. Here is a look for an August bride I'd love to see....}

The August Soirette.....

• Is elegant and cool in a form-fitting back-see gown perfect for the garden
• Loves a succulent over a peony any day
• Sips on a Watermelon Sangria
• Isn't afraid to show her soft and daring side with a mix of gold and diamonds....and a little blue for hue
• Knows that gold heels can be worn after the wedding, too

What are your current favorites for August? 

Succulent Bouquet | Iris Gown by Claire Pettibone | Crystal Venus Flytrap Necklace | Olive Leaf Bracelet | Pave Link Bracelet | Gold Nudist Heel

Soiree Feature | Ties.com

When Ties.com emailed us, we were ecstatic! We're always looking for ways to include the menfolk and to make sure he's feeling just as dapper on the big day. Ties.com is a perfect site for a whole assortment of colorful, unique ties. They have a talented team of designers, and with over 35 colors and 10 styles, you are sure to find the perfect match for that wedding day attire!

My favorite part? How To Tie A Tie, now we will all know how! Not just how to tie one tie either, a handful of ties to tie! There are so many to look at on the site, be prepared to have trouble picking a favorite, but I think I narrowed mine down to a page... Polka Dot Ties. But their entire line of Wedding Ties is perfect for those summer time nuptials. Here's a little line from their site, 

To entice you even more, Ties.com is offering our readers an exclusive offer to receive 15% off your entire purchase- just enter WEDDINGSBYSOIREE at checkout! I hope to see some swanky neckwear on all those gentlemen this wedding season!

Happy day,

Kim

Soiree Feature | Bonobos Clothing for Men

We know it's just as important for those gentlemen to look and feel dapper on their special day, and that's why we're super excited to feature this fabulous clothing line for men!  So happy Bonobos sent us some photos- the minute I checked out the line, I was in love. They offer so many different colors and patterns and just overall handsome designs for all the fellas, and best yet? The Spring Suit Collection, a line of seersucker and cotton suits, the perfect compliment for the warm weather weddings we have coming up!

A little behind the curtain snippet from the brand themselves: 

"Bonobos is a clothing brand focused on delivering great fit, high energy, and superb customer experience. Launched in 2007 on the Internet with its signature line of better-fitting men’s pants, Bonobos is now the largest apparel brand ever built on the web in the United States."

They are so great in helping to find the perfect attire for the big day, with these awesome customer service reps called Ninjas, Guideshops that offer personalized service one on one, and Groomservice, to help set up appointments and find the perfect look and fit for all those groomsmen, and of course the groom, for the big day! Not in New York? No problem- this company is used to suiting up guys all over the states- just give them a call and they'll get you set up. 

I seriously hope to see some of you guys rocking these looks at those warm weddings this year. From simple, patterned, light, classic, all the styles are perfect. Check out the full site- from another one of our favorites, the Slim Shop, find shoes, to everyday wearables- just in time for spring. And here's the real treat, 20% off your purchase if you're a new customer, so use it before it's up! Promo code, NEWCUSTOMER20 at Bonobos.

I hope you love it as much as we do!

Happy day,

 

Table Faves | Thanksgiving

It's about time to get planning that Thanksgiving dinner, however you choose to celebrate, I'd have to say decorating is one of the best parts! Here are a few of my favorite items for the table this year.

 

1. Rosemary Wreath Place Cards | I love this take on a simple place card by "spicing" it up a bit.

2. Golden Harvest Candle | Because everyone needs a little gold fruit on their table. Festive huh?

3. Wheat Stalks | I'm loving the look of natural wheat as a centerpiece this season.

4. Table Runner | Subtle, great color choices, and I love all the flatware silhouettes. How fun is this? 

5. Candle Holders | Simple yet bold, and I'm loving the wood and glass combination.

What will your table look like on this fine holiday? 

Cheers!

2013 Mother's Day Picks

At my house Mother's Day consists of a sunshiny morning brunch with the family. And there's nothing better than a cold mimosa, yummy quiche, and awesome moms! So with Mother's Day coming this Sunday, Soiree has been rounding up all the things we think our fabulous moms would love! Here are a few of our top finds...

1. We are loving this entire line of Philosophy skin care, and we're sure Mom would too!
2. Succulent Wall Planter Kit, because anything involving succulents is bound to be beautiful. 
3. Fruit Infuser Water Bottle, perfect gift with that warm weather right around the corner.
4. This set of family glassware is adorable. These awesome illustrations are from Mary and Shelly Klein, find them here!
5. Jar Candle for a fresh springy scent.

What are your finds for this Mother's Day?

Enjoy!

On My Nightstand

They say time flies when you're having fun, or in this case, snuggling baby toes every day! It's already been a month since Baby H arrived, and he's changing more and more each day. Along with his month birthday, Spring seems to be trying to make an appearance ( even with Boise's chilly wind) so I've been really drawn to cleaning up my diet and getting healthy again. While catching up on my blog reading (such a nice-and usually a rare- treat I get to indulge in every morning lately), one of my favorite blogger gals Camille Styles posted about Gwyneth Paltrow's newest cookbook, It's All Good. I was interested immediately and went to buy it last weekend. The food faire in the book is chock full of healthy greens, must-have fats, and even fun items for the kiddos (and adults) that I think I can sneak into K's diet easily. While I'm not entirely into all of the plan options in the book such as the Vegan way of life (just not my thing- I need cheese and wine!), the recipes are a great starting point to making sure all the right vitamins and good things are making it into your diet. And with all of the summer weddings coming right around the corner, this could be just the thing to kick start a honeymoon-ready body too (without a lot of sacrifice- I feel you girls).

I'd love to hear what you're doing to get ready for swim weather & wedding season- any other books or links you can recommend? 

Xo,

Kim's 2012 Holiday List | Accessories Galore

As I've been decking the halls, Christmas shopping, and enjoying all of those great holiday movies, I noticed everything I've been loving this holiday season revolves around those little, but great, accessories! And along with the fabulous bags, jewelry, and perfumes, I've also fallen in love with the soft pinks and the nude colors of the season, which add a simple, but glamorous touch to my wardrobe. So here are a few things I wouldn't mind finding under the tree this year!
Tis the season to accessorize...

From left to right:

1. Pearlescent Multi-Strand Necklace from Forever 21. Loving the pearls mixed with the chains, and of course the colors.

2.  BCBGeneration Coral Love Affirmation Bracelet at Dillards. I saw this in the store the other day and knew I had to have it. This fun little bracelet comes in so many different colors, with different words making each unique. There were so many to choose from I couldn't pick just one. I was thinking these could be the perfect little gift to give as well!

3. Black Metallic Herringbone shoes. Toms have to be some of my favorite shoes that I own, so when I saw these, with the subtle little hints of metallic throughout, I knew they were a must have for my wardrobe this year!

4. Royal Apothic perfume from Anthropologie. When Soiree went into Anthropologie the other week for some winter style inspiration, I came across this and decided it was my favorite scent of the season. This one is called, Noble Carnation, and it smells just as lovely as its name.

5. Eternity Scarf from Urban Outfitters. I'll never get tired of scarves, and one could never have too many. This one caught my eye. Big, soft, and of course, pink!

6. Marc Jacobs Leather Handbag. Coming from someone with far too many bags, I'm just dreaming big with this item, but it sure is pretty to look at. And it's the perfect shade of blush.

7. La Mer Triple Wrap Watch at Target. Saved the best for last, this is one of my favorite items on my list this year. The perfect combination of a watch and a bracelet, I couldn't ask for a more fabulous accessory.

Happy Holidays! And happy shopping!

Sunday Soiree | 2 Must Have Books For The Newlywed, Stylish Hostess, and Foodie

Good morning lovelies! Are you doing what I often do...sitting in my pajamas, coffee cup in hand, cyber shopping? If you're looking for last-minute Christmas ideas (just over 2 weeks until the big day!) for a foodie, newlywed, or someone who loves to entertain, take a look at these two books. Buy both or choose one that would fit your stylish recipient best; both have rave reviews and are sure to please the palate.

#1: Bite By Bite: 100 Stylish Little Plates You Can Make For Any Party, by Peter Callahan

Caterer to the stars Peter Callahan is known for his stylish parties, raving weddings and more, and now he has brought his culinary creations he's famous for to the rest of the world through this must-have book.

#2: Mrs. Lilien's Cocktail Swatchbook

Have you discovered the quirky blog known as Mrs. Lilien? If you haven't, as soon as you order this book you must go read her online compilation of pure style. The equally colorful swatchbook (in all it's fan-out convenience) was launched this year in May, and I haven't heard the end of it since. In fact, I think I may be purchasing one of these for myself too- use it as a hostess gift, stocking stuffer, or a little treat for yourself to wow your guests at the next get together.

So there you have it, two great ideas for the entertainer in your life. Have a fabulous Sunday!

Xo,

Weekend Notes

What are your plans this holiday weekend? It's going to be a frosty one in Boise, so we'll probably cozy up with some Christmas movies, popcorn, and a fluffy blanket at least one of the nights. The last of our decorating happens this weekend too- Hubs is hanging the lights on the house and then we're officially done and ready to go. Whatever you're planning hope you enjoy the weekend, and maybe take some time out for some hot cocoa like this couple did during their winter engagement session. Happy weekend!

Some other links you may have missed from the week:

- I rolled out my 2012 holiday wish list, and realized it would be quite fitting for others like myself (ala simple sophisticate). If you are looking for gift ideas, take a peek.

- I also started a personal mission.

- Stephanie had a soup party and I think it's a fabulous twist on a typical holiday party too. Add in some holiday mixers and voila- you've got a great get together.

And from around the web:

- Pantone officially announced the 2013 color of the year, the green goddess of colors, Emerald. Perfect for the holiday season, and perfect for me- stay tuned next week for some of my thoughts on the gorgeous hue.

- Loved this post from Thinksplendid.com...Think Jackie O, Ramona and Beezus, and the concept of how everything comes full circle.

- And finally some of my favorite holiday gift guides published so far:

* This Is Glamorous
* Note To Self, for the host and holiday decor
* Matchbook Mag, for the person who loves all things sparkle
* Greenweddingshoes.com, for the newlyweds

Xo,

Kelly's Holiday Wish List 2012 | Au Naturale

It's time for Kelly's picks of the season, perfect for the naturalist...

Left to right:

iPad 3: Because we're all getting a little techy around here. In fact, Kelly just got her Macbook Pro this week...welcome to the Apple world Kelly (read: her life will change).

Tuxedo blazer: For the love of the blazer. We're a big fan.

 Naked 2 Eye Palette by Urban Decay: A lovely, neutral palette for day or night.

 Alice + Olivia Peplum Dress: In the best shade- emerald!

 Simplicity cake dome: Every hostess needs one.

 Brown leather boots by Born Shoes: Rustic yet sophisticated all wrapped up into one.

* If you missed our other holiday wish list boards check out mine here and Stephanie's here.

~ Happy Friday!

Brandi's 2012 Holiday List | Simple Sophisticate

The tree is trimmed, lights are up, and I've already had my eye on the many holiday gift guides going around in the blogsphere of late. This year, instead of doing a gift guide round up like we did last year, we are personalizing things a little bit by posting our personal favorites that we'd be giddy to receive ourselves. If you missed Stephanie's, be sure to take a peek if you fancy fashion, and we've got more holiday and wish lists coming up this week and next for you.

As I was putting together my holiday list, I took a look at it and realized everything (ok, almost everything) was pretty practical and would be reasonable additions to both wardrobe and lifestyle, and all of the items would graciously carry one well into next seasons to come. Or so says my voice of reason. That was when I named mine "simple sophisticate", because that is what I'm focusing on this year...getting back to my roots and really building a foundation that can be accessorized as seasons come and go. Then add in the fact that I'm currently six months pregnant, I'm finding the more basic and classic I go, the better off I am (and saves me mad frustration in the mornings as I find things to wear).

So forgive me as I channel my inner stylist and post my current most coveted things here...if anything it might give you some gift ideas if you're currently searching for someone with classic, simple taste (or just needing ideas for your own wish list).

From Left to Right:

1. Boucle Peplum blazer from Jcrew. I'm currently loving all things blazer right now, especially since I can pair them with a fitted tee to show off the baby bump. Not to mention blazers always keep me feeling pulled together and ready for business or play.

2. On The Dot studs from Kate Spade. One of our good photographer friends has a pair similar to this, and I am always staring. Sometimes a gal just needs a basic, non-fussy pair of earrings and these fit the bill.

3. The Dodocase for Jcrew. I currently have a sleeve that I keep my iPad in, but as I carry it around to every single appointment I know I need a little more protection. This one is stylish and even has a camera hole.

4. Coach Poppy perfume. As I've sworn off all forms of scent since becoming pregnant, this is literally the first perfume I've come across that I was not only attracted to, but rather smitten with. Its citrusy properties with a touch of floral undertones really makes this a fresh daily must have. And come to think of it, brides, do check this out- I think it would be a lovely scent to wear on your wedding day without being overpowering.

5. Moss Stitch Cowl Neck by the Gap. I usually lean more toward basic blacks and gray, and tend to be quite fickle around color, but I find this violet-fuschia color striking. I think it would dress up those basic blacks in a nice way.

6. A new family portrait by Rifle Paper Co. This hand-drawn portrait is of Oh Joy's Joy Cho and her sweet family. How perfect is this as a gift idea? Send in a favorite photo and Rifle Paper Co will turn it into personalized stationery for thank you notes and such, but I love the idea of framing it as Joy did to use as family momentos each year.

7. Okay. This may be one thing that is neither practical nor a reasonable item. But the fact is, I want one. I want him. Dear Santa, can I have my French bulldog puppy this year?

What's on your list this year?

Xo,

December Wish List | Stephanie

Cape Coat Vintage Pajamas Cloche That Girl Bowling Shoes Driving Gloves Turtleneck Anne Marie and Donald Cute Car Beanie

This Christmas I am channeling Marlo Thomas from one of my favorite TV shows, the 1960’s “That Girl.” She is adorable and leads an adorable life in New York City. Yes, she is fictional, but that won’t stop me from stealing some of Anne Marie’s looks for my December wish list!

She is the queen of accessorizing so at the top of my list I have hats. They add pizazz to any outfit and also cleverly disguise bad hair days. I’m loving these leather driving gloves because, they’re driving gloves!  They would pair perfectly with this red cape coat from Luella. When I stumbled across these sweet little bowling shoes on etsy I knew I had to add them to the list. I get tired of always wearing boots in the Winter months and these would be a cute alternative. I love that whole look by J.Crew but really love the striped turtleneck, casual and chic. I’m also digging the vintage lounge wear from J.Crew, perfect for padding around my apartment rollers in hair, fake lashes set, preparing for a night out in NYC…oh wait, perfect for cuddling up in my house in Boise with a mug of tea watching “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

And really, who doesn’t want a cute little car piled to the brim with gigantic pink packages?? It looks ready to drive off into the countryside to meet up with friends and family for merriment and good cheer, which is truly what the Holiday Season is all about!

Fall Favorites | Kelly

This Fall I have a lot to be thankful for, and my Fiancé Jefferson is at the top of my list.  I’m so excited that I will be getting married this December.

Fall wouldn’t be complete without my homemade Pumpkin Chocolate chip bread-buttermilk is my secret ingredient!

I’m loving Essie’s fall colors this year.  These neutral colors match everything in my wardrobe.

My favorite thing to do during this time of year is watching College football on Saturdays, and cheer on my team!!

When I’m relaxing and planning my wedding I like to light my Voluspa candle that I bought from Anthropology. These are always on my Christmas list because every candle smells AMAZING!

Lastly, as a girl who loves to craft,  Krylon’s Looking glass spray paint has been a must this fall.  I have even taken an old lamp from Goodwill and turned it in chic statement piece for my new apartment.

Here's to a fabulous holiday week!

Have A Festive Week

It's already time to be thinking gifts, wrapping, and giving. Christmas tags from Primele, via the Styleberry Blog

Can't believe it's Thanksgiving this week! And from our Friday tradition of casual shopping (no, we don't bang down the store doors at 4a anymore) and breakfast with the family to decorating on Saturday, I already can't wait for this three day work week to be over.

Hopefully you only have a few days of nine-fiving it, and then can be on your merry way to officially kicking off the holidays!

Happy Monday,

Fall Favorites + What I'm Thankful For | Kim

1

*.     As the days get shorter and drives in the car get colder, listening to my favorite tunes warms me right up! What’s in my CD player right now? Imagine Dragons and the new Mumford & Sons.

2.     Revlon Just Bitten Kissable balm stain. My go to color is “Charm”. I love this right now!

3.     This one never gets old for me. Sensual Amber products from Bath and Body Works- Smells magnificent and always puts me in the mood for fall. Not to mention, the body cream will keep your skin silky smooth in this cold!

4.     This month I purchased some super cute boot cuffs at DSW. They just fold right over the top of your favorite boots. These add a little something to my fall wardrobe, and there are so many styles to choose from!

5.     And lastly, scented pinecones! I mean it when I say these are my favorite. They smell so good in the store that I can’t help but pick up a bag for myself. They make my home smell so good and get me pumped for the holidays!
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This season I’m ever so thankful for my family and my best of friends who laugh with me, support me, and love me through all of my endeavors. I’m thankful for my education, for the opportunity to attend different classes and learn new things every day. And of course, I’m forever grateful for Soiree, and the amazing chance to work with an even more amazing team!

May your fall season be full of lots to be thankful for! Enjoy!