The Sweetest Things by Sweet June Events

Wedding Photograper? Cake Baker? Floral Designer? We Want You!

2009-08-16T12:05:00.000-07:00

Dearest SJE Readers,

Are you an up-and-comer in your biz? An artist, a bad-ass, a pro? If so, or if you know of some, we want to hear from you!

SJE is all about discovering the best new wedding and party-related vendors in the Los Angeles, Orange County and South Bay areas ~ we know SoCal is brimming with tons of talent, so if you are (or know of):

~ A photographer/Videographer
~ A makeup artist
~ A floral designer
~ A graphic/stationery designer
~ A Baker
~ An accessories designer
~ A musician/entertainer

...or if you provide any special services that you feel would be especially great for parties and weddings, please do give us a shout. We'd love to not only feature your work on the Sweetest Things blog and with our Facebook community, but actually connect with you in the hopes of adding you to our ever-growing roster of top-tier vendors.

Sweet June Events is a relatively young company as well, and one of the best things we can all do is become resources for one another. Our business has plenty of established pros, but we want to hear from super-talented folks who are ready to grow their business and who are willing to work within a client's budget ~ no matter how modest.

Ready to network? Great! Just send us some photos/videos of your work and a quick blurb about you and what you do (as well as any website or blog info)...and so the fun begins!

Looking forward to meeting you all!

XO SJE

*image courtesy of Tracy Stern’s new book Tea Party: 20 Themed Tea Parties With Recipes For Every Occasion, from Fabulous Showers to Intimate Gatherings

Color Us Happy ~ Non-Traditional Wedding Inspiration from Designer Wai-Ching!

2009-08-15T11:05:00.002-07:00

We were on a search for colorful wedding gowns - splashes, dashes, sprays, washes...you name it! Color is the big thing right now and we couldn't be more excited because it's time to turn tradition on its arse and bring in some beautiful hues!

Well, we not only found color, but we found eco-conscious, beautifully constructed raw silk couture gowns from Chrissy Wai-Ching, a Seattle-based designer whose special gowns are a favorite among brides with a funky, off-beat style. You can see her collection on her site, Wai-Ching.com, but we've featured some of our favorites here and even did a little mini-inspiration board for each gown.

~Sea Glass Inspiration~

L'Arbre Dress by Wai Ching

Invitation Inspiration (from Folklore Eye Designs)

Bouquet Idea

Cake! From Michele Coulon Dessertier

~Boho Juliet Inspiration~

Silvio Dress by Wai-Ching

Floral Inspiration

Gothic Indian Choker Necklace from XinXinemin's Etsy Shop

Vintage Postcard Wedding Invitation from Golden Rectangle Press's Etsy Shop

Cake Inspiration by Ron Ben-Israel Cakes, New York

~Woodsy Floral Inspiration~
Chrystanthemum Dress by Wai-Ching

Passion - Gold Satin Clutch with Feathery Brooch / Hairclip from AngeeW's Etsy Shop

Incredibly Unique Invitation Inspiration from Tugboat Printshop (Note: you can see all of the details of this custom woodcut wedding invitation here)

Adorable woodland-themed cake topper from Sweet Pixie Pie's Etsy Shop

~Gypsy Chic Inspiration~
Zolotova

...which the STUNNINGLY GORGEOUS designer wore for her very own wedding:

Save-the-Date/Invite Inspiration from Kim's Custom Cards & Gifts

Decor, Moroccan Style

Lounge decor, from Mosaik Events

From Overstock.com ~Mediterranean Faux Stained Glass Chandelier

Hope you enjoyed today's inspiration! Be sure to check out Wai-Ching's site...you'll really be blown away.

Have a great weekend, lovelies!

xoSJE

Invitation Designer Spotlight: Betsy White Stationery

2009-08-14T00:23:00.000-07:00

We're not afraid to admit it: Paper is like porn to us. Perhaps it's a bit unhealthy, sure, but really? There are just so many talented stationery designers out there that we feel need to be shared with the world! Okay, perhaps just our wee readership...hey, it may be a small world but it's our world nonetheless, and we want to share our great finds with you!

Which brings us to Betsy White and her absolutely precious designs! There's something really special about her style, and it's not limited to wedding invites. She's a full service design shop, creating everything from personal stationery to party invites to wedding logos. You name it, she does it, and she does it with complete finesse.

Behold, the Cheeky Cherub Party Invitation ~

...and the Tropical Bird Personal Stationery~

...and the Cirque baby announcement~

...and the Parker collection ~

...and from the Amelia collection ~

..and this gorgeous personal wedding monogram sample:

...and the adorable Truckin' Kids Party Invite~

As you can see, it's official...Betsy White is awesome. Check out her inspiration blog, Flights of Fancy!

xo SJE

Sweet Decor Idea: Framed Chalkboards

2009-08-13T14:31:00.000-07:00

We love the idea of using framed chalkboards in party and wedding decor. Whether it's to write something as simple as the menu, or to tell a little story, or to instruct your guests, these are a fun, decorative solution and they offer instant style.

We found some great ones on Etsy (of course!):

From Polkadots n' Pinstripes' Shop

Large White Vintage French-Inspired Framed Chalkboard

Chalkboard Magnetic Memo Board Oval Metal Frame from Shabby Vintage Mom's Shop:

Mini Day of the Dead Chalkboard in Orange from Kitty McFar's Shop:

Antique Framed Chalkboard from Rowan's Room's Shop:

Purple Ornate Chalboard Frame from Nonookyes's Shop:

And this one...so cute! From K9Gifts.com:

Actually, we're told this is a fairly easy D.I.Y. project - just buy some frames at Goodwill or a garage sale! We've included some instructions below. Send us pics if you decide to do it and we will feature them!

Supplies

Large vintage or secondhand frame

Chalkboard paint

Pencil

Masking or painter's tape

Nails, hammer, paintbrush/small roller

Instructions

Place the empty frame on the wall in the exact place you would like to have your chalkboard. Have someone hold it very steady, or actually nail it on the wall. Using a pencil, trace the inside perimeter of the frame directly onto the wall. Remove the frame from the wall.

The next step is to tape the area off. Place tape along the lines you have drawn, not flush against the pencil marks, but about an inch away. This will create a space in the same shape, but about a full inch larger altogether than the pencil outline. Erase the pencil marks.

Place the frame back over the area, and make sure you can't see any tape from any angle. (The boundary of the tape now represents the unpainted wall, and what you will be able to see once the project is complete.) If necessary, adjust the tape lines so they are covered completely by the frame. If this is difficult, your frame's edges may be too thin/narrow.

Happy Crafting!
xo SJE

Invitation Spotlight: Old School Retro Goodness!

2009-08-11T19:32:00.000-07:00

Why is it that retro never gets old? Maybe we just long for the past when life was simpler, or maybe it's because there's something about design from the 60's and 70's that makes us giddy!

There are so many fun invitation designs out there, and we decided to dedicate a post to some of our wedding and party invitation finds. Kind of makes us want to channel our inner Carol Brady!

Our first..."Retro Sunset" from Wedding Paper Divas:

Stunning custom design by Nickelson's Invitations:

"Sewn Poppy" Fabric Invitations from Merriment Design

This one is amazing! Custom design by Paisley Quill:

These are super fun - they look like old school plane tickets! From Wedding Invitation Designer:

"Vivienne Greene Peacock" invitation from Periwinkle Stationery:

Hope you dug our groovy finds!

xo SJE

Romantic, Bohemian Topanga Canyon Wedding!

2009-08-11T11:57:00.000-07:00

If any of you have ever watched The Rachel Zoe Project on Bravo, then you'll be familiar with the phrase: "I...Die!" ~ it's usually used in the context of something being so gorgeous, so absolutely perfect, that you simply may cease being from the overall loveliness overload.

This wedding, friends, is one of those occasions that calls for us to channel Rachel. First off, it took place in the glorious Topanga Canyon, at a heavenly venue called The Mountain Mermaid, which we were unfamiliar with and it's in our own backyard! Evidently (and quite understandably) it is frequently used for photo and film shoots.

Please, just take a look at what the place looks like from the front:

I know! Right? And here is the view of the grounds in the back and the pool:

And then of course, apropos of the name, there are the many fountains and decorative elements around the property featuring beautiful mermaids...

And now for the wedding. We found this by way of one of our new fave photographers, Justine Ungaro. We happened upon her site some time ago and fell in love with her style. And now you will see why!

Welcome to Liz & Edward's Wedding!

The bride!

Some details...

Yes, that is a percussionist seated on a gorgeous woven rug...too cool.

View of the ceremony by the pool.

The kiss.

And...we die!

Still dying...

Breathtaking presentation of the food.

Pure romance.

This image shows why having a photographer who "gets it" is so important. Beautiful nod to photojournalism.

Precious couple.

Ah...so good...every last detail. We hope you enjoyed! And thanks to Justine Ungaro for featuring this special wedding on her blog.

Have a lovely day!

xo SJE

Let's Hear it for the Boys!

2009-08-10T17:49:00.000-07:00

We have to admit, the blogosphere isn't exactly teeming with wedding-related content written for, and by, the guys. Well, The Man Registry is here to represent!

TheManRegistry.com is an online resource for grooms and is the internet leader in grooms wedding tips and wedding advice for grooms. The website features a specialized wedding gift registry featuring hundreds of wedding gifts tailored toward grooms, including electronics, barbecue grills and accessories, bar supplies, tools and outdoors gear and items from favorite sports teams — In addition to the wedding registry, the website also offers a wealth of information, how-to articles and resources designed to help successfully guide the 1.2 million grooms who get married each year through every step of the engagement, wedding and honeymoon planning processes.

They even have a blog, which frequently features guest bloggers from some of our fave wedding sites.

Check out this great post on planning a bachelor party -- not only how you should go about it but some awesome suggestions, like Mini Grand Prix go-karting followed by beer tasting at three micro breweries.

Don't let your groom wander around without a cyber place to call home during all the pre-wedding chaos -- spread the word!

xo SJE

Beautiful Boudoir Photography: Kim Le

2009-08-07T21:13:00.000-07:00

If you've been toying with the idea of doing a boudoir photography session either for your special one or just for yourself, may we introduce Kim Le. We came across her beautiful work through Vivian Tran of Orange County's All Made Up Team, who did the makeup for some of the sessions Kim features on her blog. It doesn't hurt that each of these lovely women is absolutely stunning in their own right, but Kim manages to capture the glamour and intimacy that makes this kind of shoot work, along with her own glossy, modern style.

Timeless Black & White:

Blue Belle:

Sultry:

Girl Next Door Glam:

Honestly, they are all so good, and the MAKEUP! The All Made Up Team did such an amazing job. And the great thing about it is that you do the styling for your shoot - you pick what you'll wear, the vibe you're going for and the overall environment you're most comfortable being your sexiest self. And wouldn't it be great to have photos like that to look back on when you're a Golden Girl? :)

xo SJE

E-tailer Spotlight: Social Couture!

2009-08-07T19:48:00.000-07:00

Social Couture is one of those e-shops where you find yourself absolutely GIDDY with each click of your mouse. Then you start trying to figure out who you can throw a party for an how soon because their stuff just makes you *happy*. Here's a little taste of their many, many delightful offerings.

We fell in love with their Vintage Baby Shower items ~ Forget those creepy plastic babies and baby bottles you can get at the local party or crafts store...these are so much cuter!

The baby pin placecards (also an easy and fun D.I.Y. idea):

and the little blue booties!

Enjoy!
xo SJE

Sweet Deal: Wedding Paper Divas Friends & Family Discount!

2009-08-06T14:47:00.000-07:00

Please use our personal codes, guys!

To save 15% on your order, use personal code 97AZC6552D. Share these codes with up to five friends so they can enjoy the savings as well: CAXZBD73FE, 6384Z6Z6B6, E7E766BEC5, C3X57DZD5Z, CAFFD2DD86. Add free shipping with code FREESHIP.

Happy Thursday!

xo,SJE

Etsy Seller Spotlight: Sweet Ambs's Cookies

2009-08-05T17:19:00.000-07:00

I have to tell you, the first time we saw Sweet Ambs's cookies we thought, "Wait! Those are too pretty to eat!" The stunning decoration on each cookie is truly awe-inspiring! From the Wedgewood design to the monograms to the cameo silhouettes...trust us, you have never seen cookies like these.

Sweet Ambs's Orange Vanilla Spice Cookies are about 3-1/2" in diameter. They are made from a basic sugar cookie recipe, which is then flavored with fresh orange zest, vanilla beans, and a hint of cardamom. The royal icing has a dash of vanilla extract to bring together the wonderful flavors of the cookie. You can purchase each set of 6 for under $20 bucks.

Now, we ask you, small price to pay for something that looks - and tastes - *that* good! Here's just a tiny sampling of the many lovely cookie designs available at Sweet Ambs!

Spring assortment:

Black & White Cameo:

Oh, did we mention you can also order 2 dozen of the mini button cookies?

Wedgewood:

We can't wait for an occasion to place our order. Second thought, do we really need one? :)

Have a wonderful day!

xoSJE

Take it from the Topper: Unique Cupcake Toppers from Etsy

2009-08-04T12:15:00.000-07:00

Ideas for party themes can come from anywhere, even something as simple as a handmade cupcake/cake topper. Here is a selection of toppers we found on Etsy that are sure to inspire you to throw a sweet soiree!

From HModine's ephemera-inspired shop:

A little Marie Antoinette!

Teacups

Fortune Tellers:

From Cupcake Social's Shop:

Butterfly Ring Toppers

Pinwheels

And for the little ones, from creatingfromtheheart's shop

Clothespin Ballerinas

Candle Kids

Hope you enjoyed these as much as we enjoyed finding them!

xo SJE

Brilliant Save-the-Dates with Tutorial!

2009-08-03T18:43:00.000-07:00

Oh my! We happened upon these adorable Save-the-Dates via myweddingreport.com and had to share because there is also a fantastic, truly step-by-step tutorial included! It looks like there's a bit of work involved, but the result is definitely worth it! The pull out date...can you handle it? So cute.

Feast your eyes...

For a complete step-by-step guide on creating your own, here you go:

DIY Save the Dates How To

You can also see more detailed images of these on the bride's Wedding Bee posts. here: http://www.weddingbee.com/2009/05/27/save-the-date-for-the-ducklings/.

And for another great example from a Ms. Martha Stewart (not sure if you've heard of her, but apparently she has some good ideas ;), see below!

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Enjoy!

Cutest RSVP Idea Ever!

2009-07-31T01:38:00.000-07:00

If you have a minute you *must* drop on by Portland couple Automne & Graham's wedding blog, Our Punk Rock Wedding, at http://theeweddingparty.wordpress.com/ -- these guys are so adorable and original and here just one reason why: they did "Draw A Portrait of Yourself" RSVP's...brilliant! It doesn't hurt to have funny & creative friends, right? Anyway, the results are priceless. Here's just a tease:

Be sure to read the story of how they got together, here: http://theeweddingparty.wordpress.com/about/

Love it!

Pretty Porcelain & The Rose Bowl Flea Market

2009-07-31T00:46:00.000-07:00

Today's post was inspired by this gorgeous photo (via NIN's Flickr photostream) of several porcelain pitchers and bowls she picked up at a local garage sale to be used as centerpieces for her wedding. How many times have you been to a flea market or garage sale and seen tons of mismatched porcelain tea sets, pottery and china and thought..."Hmmm...pretty, but what would I do without a whole set?" And therein lies the charm. The fact that they are all different, yet somehow there's a beautiful harmony that makes each piece look like it belongs. And the bonus? Usually you can score some really fantastic deals, and we all know...nothing's better than when you score such a great deal you feel like you stole it :)

How inspiring is this? You can create porcelain pitcher centerpieces for your wedding, a bridal shower, a baby shower, a birthday...anytime! Just fill them will beautiful blooms and *viola!* ~ instant elegance.

This pretty pitcher (above) was purchased at a garage sale for $2.99...

More loveliness...

So simple, so cheerful...

We can't wait to hit a few garage sales or maybe the Pasadena Rose Bowl Flea Market ~ a fantastic place to find tons of this kind of stuff. Can't wait? Here's the schedule for the next few:

August 9, 2009
September 13, 2009
October 11, 2009
November 8, 2009

Happy Bargain Hunting!

Get Schooled by Creature Comforts!

2009-07-29T00:38:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for some champagne taste/beer budget-style favor/gift ideas, look no further! Creature Comforts offers some really wonderful D.I.Y. tutorials that are so delightfully do-able, it'll surprise even the least craft-astically inclined! Check out one of our faves for paper-wrapped soaps here:

http://creaturecomforts.typepad.com/my_weblog/2008/05/diy-paper-wrapp.html

They even give the option to download printable labels! Visit their Freebies & Tutorials section often!

Sweet Stop Motion Save-the-Date Video!

2009-07-28T22:50:00.001-07:00

Save the Date_9/26/09 from Jason Harmon on Vimeo.

Inspired Wedding Palette: Lilac + Aqua + Emerald

2009-07-28T19:25:00.000-07:00

So cool, it's hot, hot, HOT!!! We came across this gorgeous pallette via Coco & Kelley ~ a truly stylish blog on everything from interior design to fashion and everything in between. Pay them a visit at http://cocokelley.blogspot.com/.

{Printable} Parties By Hardie on Etsy!

2009-07-28T01:43:00.000-07:00

We LOVE this idea! Parties By Hardie has created a fantastic concept - "printable" parties! Everything you need to throw a playful, colorful, fun themed kid's party all in one PDF file ~ just print and cut! To get the idea, here's what the Ladybug Printable Party kit contains:

party hats
favor bag toppers (two styles/sizes)
place cards/food label cards
square tags/labels
fill-in invitations
thank you cards
flower shaped thank you cards
tags (1.7 “, 3”, 5”)
favor box
"The party's here" signs
crown (3 styles)
triangle birthday banner
flower birthday banner
mini patterned paper banner
patterned papers

To see more photos of everything in this kit and what you can make with it, see PBH's party blog: www.partiesbyhardie.com.

SO Cute! Perfect for all of us time-crunched folks who are thoughful, but overscheduled :)

Let Us Introduce Ourselves...

2009-07-28T00:24:00.001-07:00

Hello! Welcome to Sweetest Things, a blog brought to you fresh daily by the ladies of Sweet June Events. Our hope is to fill it with tons of delightful and inspiring ideas, tips, trends, happenings and all-around "good stuff" we find in our daily wanderings online and in our real-life adventures working as wedding and special event planners in Southern California.

Our inspiration comes from everywhere: nature, music, film, all things handmade, vintage/retro style, architecture, design, illustration, fine art, and most of all...the extraordinarily creative and generous community of fellow bloggers in the 'sphere who amaze us on a regular basis with so much wonerful, rich content. We are truly humbled to be part of that community now and look forward to sharing our finds with you! Please drop us a line and let us know what you're loving right now ~ we'd love to hear from you!

Cheers,
The Sweet June Events team