Trending | Banana Leaf and Palm Print

I'm admittedly a pattern girl. Give me a pile of fabric with complimentary (yet contrasting) patterns, I'm smitten. But as patterns, prints and trends come and go, there are a few that have continually stood the test of time, and one of those happen to be the ever lovely palm leaf (or banana leaf) print. It's one of those elements that can morph itself into any design inspiration- from natural, to glam (Hollywood Regency, anyone?), to boho- this leafy maven has us covered.  Laurel and Wolf, the iconic online interior design firm, inspired me to share my thoughts on how to introduce the print into whatever you happen to be styling.

Interiors + Living Space

I tend to lean toward the philosophy of grounding with neutrals and adding patterns, color, or unexpected elements in smaller doses (or in specified areas) for a beautifully layered effect.

Right: via  | Left via My Domaine

Via Elements of Style

Each of these spaces have mostly white, tan, gold and black accents, layered with the leafy pattern. 

Via Project Nursery

However, the print is also amazing at grounding a busier space, too, like this crazy adorable nursery. 

Weddings + Parties

Using the palm leaf as part of your wedding design and/or party decor is less about becoming tropical and more about adding a fresh + modern accent to your event. And while the leaf definitely lives in harmony with a Hawaiian vibe, it can also be super stylish with even the most romantic or playful design. 

Right via Camille Styles | Left via Laurel and Wolf

I love turning traditional things into unexpected surprises, like penning a menu on a large palm leaf (or insert any object de nature, here), and a wedding lounge would be so sophisticated and on point with a pairing of graphic patterns, complimentary colors, and the palm print. 

Left via The Sweetest Occasion | Right via We are Scout

And of course, for the more fun-loving social parties, this print is perfect on decorations or as a live centerpiece to your table. 

All in all, this print is one of those you just can't go wrong with. All of this inspiration has me rethinking our outdoor lounge at home, too- just might need to pick up some of these banana leaf pillows for a little touch of sophisticated nature to our backyard. Would love to know- what are your favorite inspirations or ways to use the print? 

Don't forget to check out Laurel + Wolf for even more inspo on all things style and decorating, via their website, blog, Instagram, and Pinterest!

Xo,

Brandi

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

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

Table Faves | Thanksgiving II

Here are some of my favorite ideas for this years Thanksgiving table scape! My ideal setting is casual and simple yet stunning. Spending time with my family is what I am thankful for and what better way to show your appreciation than to host a beautiful holiday event that will create everlasting memories and will bring joy to those you love!

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Happy Holidays!

Guesterly | A True Guest Experience

A couple of months ago I awoke to an email headed "Boise-fast coffee or beer chat"? I thought to myself, someone really knows how to get my attention! Fast forward about a week and I sat over a cup of really good coffee sharing a Dulce de Leche macaroon with Rachel Hofstetter of Guesterly. 

We met at A Tavola in Boise to chat about her brainchild, a get-to-know-you magazine for wedding guests. After chatting for a bit about her former life as a food editor (at the likes of O, The Oprah Magazine no less), we got down to the nitty gritty of how Guesterly was born and how it works. 

While planning her own wedding to her husband, Lorne, they dreamt of finding a way to introducing and making their guests (from all over the country) feel as though they already knew each other. They wanted a way to create an experience for their guests so that everyone came to their wedding weekend relaxed, having fun, and making lasting memories. After a bit of walking down memory lane via Lorne's Princeton Herald they came up with the idea to create their own Herald-like booklet with heartfelt bios of each of their wedding guests. Rachel put her magazine editor skills to work to write those tidbits and fun facts about each of their guests, including interviewing Lorne's entire side of the guest list. Then Lorne put his skills to the test to design the book to showcase every single guest in attendance. A week before the wedding the books were mailed out and soon the phone calls and emails came pouring in- their guests loved every bit of it. 

Rachel and Lorne at their wedding | A few snapshots of actual Guesterly's 

Before they knew it, friends of the couple began asking for the booklet for their weddings. One thing led to another, and soon they knew it was time to set out to create Guesterly 2.0 so they could offer that lasting experience to everyone. 

"Find your tablemates", "Meet her globetrotting grandparents"...just a few of the sneak peek snippets to welcome your guests

So how does it work? Like magic really. Lorne and Rachel have thought of everything, including a specially designed software that pulls photos of your guests through Facebook. Photos are enhanced via a photo editor to make your guests shine, and are dropped into a custom layout (including colors, typography, and more) created by Guesterly's graphic designers. A few weeks before the wedding Guesterly's writers set up a fun interview with the couple to help create the bios for your guests, then send a proof check for you to look over. When all is approved, the booklet is sent to their printing partners (many of which print some of the most popular magazines on newsstands now- thanks to Rachel's insider connections!) and the finished product is mailed out to your guests a week before the wedding. In short, they've made the process so easy peasy, and your guests are guaranteed to throw a fit about it (in a good way!).

What's more is you get to customize your Guesterly however you want- think table assignments, directions, maps, to-do activities and more. No matter what, the booklet will become a cherished keepsake from your wedding- for you and your guests, and we can't stop talking about it.

Be sure to take a peek at the website for more information, photos, and even a free sample! You can also stay up to date by following on Twitter and Facebook.

Happy Planning,

Room to Wedding | Naturally Modern

This room is combining two amazingly different themes! In nature the lines are sinewy and have movement. On the other hand, when designing to create a modern feel, designers tend to use strait lines and more geometric figures and shapes. It's edgy and different yet tends to create a serene feel that I absolutely love! Notice how they pull the colors out of nature and use them to accent the room! And this cake! The general direction of the layers rise up in an angular line but the cake itself has amazing movement!

Room | Table Scape | Cake

As always, happy planning!

Lifestyle | Organization

I am always looking for cute new ways to organize my crazy busy life! Here are a few tips that I'm planning to try myself! Hope you find them helpful!

Idea Inspiration

I LOVE movies and have a ton! I get really sick of looking at all the DVDs lined up on my bookshelf though. It is NOT attractive. Try this cute and practical tip that can declutter any shelf!

Idea Inspiration

Love this idea, it's my favorite! This fab DIY enthusiast purchased these clipboards from a dollar store, then covered them in scrap wallpaper. There are some very stylish wrapping paper options out there as well. These can be used to organize to-do lists, recipes, bills, even photos or design inspiration! It's a cure all for the mess of papers on your desk!

Idea Inspiration

If you're a pack rat like me and refuse to get rid of the clothes that you're convinced you'll wear again, this tip may help you kick that habit. First flip all of your hangers backwards. After you've worn something face the hanger forward in its normal position. Anything left facing backward after a year? Say a few words in commemoration, then toss it into the donation pile:) Sometimes we just need a little motivation:)

Happy organizing!

Some History Behind Wedding Traditions

I am a sucker for history and as we blaze through wedding season and I witness all of the amazing wedding day highlights, I find myself wondering why some of these traditions exist. Here is some insight into a few of those significant little details that make your wedding day so very special.

1. The Bridal Bouquet

Brides used to walk down the aisle with different herbs to ensure that she was protected against anything that would create bad luck or sickness. Unfortunately, those herbs included dill and garlic which didn't have that great of an aroma. Brides modified this tradition and started to use beautiful floral arrangements making the bridal bouquet what it is today. The flowers also stand for fertility and happiness and well smell a bit better too!

Photo | Info

2. The Wedding Ring

The wedding ring dates back to Roman times, although the whole diamond aspect didn't come along until the 1920s. It is one of those traditions that has stood the test of time. The Romans believed that the ring finger had a vein in it that went straight to the heart and that the circle represented eternity. Now how romantic is that!!

Photo | Info

3. The Best Man

The meaning of the best man is somewhat different today than it was in the past. In history, the best man was a strong and reliable fighter chosen to guard the groom so as to ensure no other man could steal the groom's bride. When the women became scarce in certain towns, the bachelors would become quite desperate. Thank goodness those barbaric ways are in the past!

Photo | Info

So when planning your special day keep in mind all the great stories behind those little details.

Happy Friday!

Room to Wedding | Pink and Blue

This color scheme is in demand right now concerning all aspects of design. Because these colors are so bold, especially together, there are a few things you can do to make sure that this motif is sophisticated and not silly. Like the room below, adding different shades of blues, greens and accents of dark wood furniture is the perfect example of how to create this look without going overboard.   

Room | Setting and Cake | Invites

Happy Tuesday!

Inspiration Board | Neon

I've ended up loving neon as summer approaches, far more than I expected to! Especially when I was doing some late night Pinterest, and it kept popping up on people's wedding boards... I was inspired, and had so much fun looking through pictures of all things neon. It's the perfect punch of color. It's fun, fresh, funky and just looks so darn good! I love the idea of neon accents throughout someone's wedding decor, I definitely think it's my favorite trend of the season!

 Sources (from left to right, top to bottom) 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Have a very happy weekend! Cheers!

Trending | The Bridesmaid Skirt

Bridesmaids in skirts? Absolutely! This is a fabulous trend to have your girls sport on your special day. Mix and match the lengths, colors, patterns... the options are endless! The bridesmaid skirt is the perfect way to add a little creativity and uniqueness to your bridal party - and we love it!

 

Image via | Green Wedding Shoes

 Image via | Belle The Magazine

Image via | One To Wed

Enjoy!

Inspiration | Royal Purple

I saw this vintage couch on Pinterest and was instantly inspired! Not only by the color but also by the beautiful wood detail. It is such a dramatic piece that is sure to create a bold statement. This "royal purple," as I like to call it, is actually found quite often in nature! So while you're outside playing in the sun, look around and see what colors inspire you. You may be surprised at what you find!

Lanters | Couch | Flowers | Figs | Bride and Her Girls

Happy May!

Inspiration | Hairstyles

Here are some wedding hair styles that are in vogue this spring and summer. Whether your hair is short or long there are several options that you can pull inspiration from. Create your own trend with a beautiful hair piece or a floral element that couple with these untied soft looks.

From Left to Right: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Enjoy the rest of the week!

Trending | Furniture

If you've been looking for a twist on the traditional seating for your special day, here it is... vintage furniture! And we love it!

 Via | Ira & Lucy

 Via | Found Rentals 

Are you loving the vintage seating as much as we are?

Trending | Bright Wedding Lips

Good Morning!

With so many fabulous trends happening this season, it's tough to pick just one. What's trending right now? Bright wedding lips! Red, pink, even coral. And these lip colors give every bride the opportunity to add a little "pop" of color to her wedding day style.

Image via: Style Me Pretty

Will you be rocking the red lips for your wedding? Check out this step-by-step tutorial for those bright lips. Also, check out some more trending beauty combos (it really is impossible to pick just one!), whether it's for your wedding, or just a fun day out. Enjoy!