J.Crew Swim

This weekend I am braving the yearly search for a bathing suit. I've been scoping out a couple of my favorites online this week and I have landed at the same place I always do: The Crew. I am so predictable when it comes to suits. Colors: blue, grey and white. Pattern: stripes, polka dots or anything that resembles them. Fit: comfortable but still fresh and young. Style: classic. How many suits do I have that already have polka dots on them? It's not worth the embarrassment of sharing. But do I stop looking at them? Of course not. Each year they are just different enough to call my name again and again...Brides, I know you're on the hunt too and I would steer you toward my alma mater, J. Crew. They never disappoint. Look smokin' on your honeymoon and skip the trendy metallics and crazy sequins, or the disappearing seats of bikini bottoms. Go with fresh sophistication :)

My two favorites?  The Marina-striped ring bandeau suit and The Annik-stripe string bikini.  In LOVE.  I wish they carried more swim wear at their stores...

{Images: J.Crew}

What to wear...Elie Tahari Resort 2012

Elie Tahari went exotic for their 2012 Resort collection, finding inspiration in Marrakesh's easy wear kaftans, hot desert colors and not to mention turbans. I don't know if you'll ever see me sporting a turban but I assure you white, white and more white is what this season is all about and I will enjoy every moment of it!

{Images: style.com}

Inspiration Shoot: rPhotography

Good morning, ladies!  Check out this sweet wedding inspiration shoot by Portland wedding photographer, Niki Rhodes of rPhotography!  A perfectly cheerful tabletop with pretty lace, vintage crystal glass and simple flora handpicked from the backyard garden.  This shoot just makes me smile :)

Wonderful inspiration!  Thank you, Niki for sharing!!

{Images courtesy of: rPhotography}

Gown Friday: Marchesa Spring 2012

Ah, Marchesa can do no wrong.  And this dreamy dress above is my absolute favorite.  Gorgeous sweetheart neckline and a fabulous skirt pouf of tulle--so fun!

See you all next week!

{Images: Marthastewartweddings.com}

What to wear...Bottega Veneta Resort 2012

Weightless fabrics and a fresh union of soft neutrals & saturated color blocks made me fall for the Bottega Veneta Resort 2012 collection.  These easy breezy shift dresses, and silk pants and blouses couldn't be more effortless chic.  Gorgeous.  Add this to my daydream list: check.

{Images: Style.com}

Inspiration: tabletop

You can't go wrong with using a rustic table for any event, casual or traditional.  Bring your chunky, worn, antiqued table outside and dress up with almost anything you've got!  This tablescape is set with green and clear found bottles with fresh white hydrangea, a simple wooden box fit with summery succulents and lovely hand painted plates.  I love the woven mats and pops of turquoise.  Paired together it makes for a wonderfully bohemian combination of organic textures and bright accents.

{Images: found via Katie Grace Designs from Annabelle Lane Designs, photographed by Kellie Kano Photography.  Go here for all then shoot details!}

Bountiful Bouquet

Good morning!  I took a little impromptu hiatus from blogging last week with the help of Blogger, as I was unable to post anything for a little while but I'm back!  And I spotted this colorful, eclectic wedding shot by Hedi of Our Labor of Love the other day--such a fun, Anthropologie vibe with a tea length wedding dress, clusters of hanging origami birds and a collection of found wooden chairs that make you feel like you just stepped into a sweet family dinner.  

{Images: found via Peacock Feathers by Heidi of Our Labor of Love}

Inspiration Shoot: Diana Marie Photography

Good morning!  I have been waiting to share these gorgeous images with you for a while now and it's been well worth the wait.  Diana Marie attended one of the coveted Jose Villa workshops last year and shot this wedding inspiration in a beautiful rustic adobe setting.  It's a perfect collection of striking magenta and romantic soft pink coupled with earthy brown and red tones mimicking the gorgeous setting sun on a hot summer night.  Ooh, I need to go on vacation...

Thank you, Diana, what a beautiful job!

{Images courtesy of Diana Marie Photography}
For complete list of the talented vendors involved in the workshop see here!