In my search for a truly inspirational tablescape for a destination wedding to take place at the breathtaking Seaport Hotel in Boston, I visited one of my very favorite sites and came across this simple, elegant and luxurious tablescape designed by the one and only; The Wedding Library out of New York!
Seriously, this tablescape is simply amazing to say the least. It speaks volume to the bride who wants to make a statement but wants to keep it clean, simple, scrumptious and luxurious. What do you think about this table? Can you picture your wedding with this kind of décor? You know I would love to hear your thoughts.
Inspired by The Wedding Library,
Violaine Diogene
I love the very simple, white orchids on the clear acrylic table and chair. There’s something so stunning about the contrast between the color arrangements. Notice the several different lengths of glasses on the table which adds simple drama.
Seeing the whole table from a few feet away really allows you to take in how truly beautiful it is.
I love the brown chargers under the crisp white entrée plate with the dark cream salad plate. The colors are simply stunning. Did you notice that the only linen on the table is the white napkin? I love that.
I simply adore how all the very simple details were attended to. Instead of a traditional napkin ring, they used this very modern, crisp platinum sea seashell to keep the napkin in place.
This simple little statuette of the sea horse simply finalizes this tablescape.
Yesterday, we discussed the several different concentrations of perfumes and how different versions of the fragrances are created (Perfume Etiquettes: Part One). A perfume’s scent depends upon its combination and type of ‘notes’. Each note is categorized into a scent family. Just like the individual notes of a song make up the melody, the notes in a perfume produce the final, blended scent. These notes must blend well together and in return, we have a masterful scent.
Just as there are different types of note family categories, perfume notes are also classified according to their lasting power. In the perfume world, there are three notes of this type. According to Angela Harris, the top note in a perfume is its first impression. The top notes are sometimes called head notes or “notes de tete”. This is the scent that you smell when a perfume is first sprayed or applied. The top note scent is the first scent, but it also lasts the least amount of time. Top notes usually last less than fifteen minutes. Citrus type scents are most commonly used for top notes.
Middle notes are the scents in a perfume after the top note has evaporated. Middle notes are also called heart notes, central notes, and “notes de coeur”. Middle notes in some perfumes may take an hour or longer to develop, but usually start to emanate in just a few minutes. Most middle notes last an hour or longer. Middle notes are usually floral scents.
Base notes, or “notes de fond”, are the last notes in a perfume to become apparent. Middle notes and base notes comprise the ‘essence’ of the perfume. After the top notes have disappeared and the middle notes have started to fade, the base notes become more prominent. Base notes last longer than other perfume notes, usually several hours. Base notes tend to be more rich than other perfume notes. Base notes tend to be from woodsy or earthy fragrance families.
When shopping for new perfume, keep these notes in mind. Don’t buy a perfume right away. Apply the scent to your skin. Wait for the top note to evaporate. Leave the store. Experience the middle note in about an hour. If you like the middle note, wait for the base note. This is the most important note to evaluate. If you like the base note as well, you’ve found a winner
My sweet darlings, I promise you, a brilliant perfume is a bit like an abstract painting; It takes time to understand it and appreciate the true beauty of the fragrance. But with the right information, you will appreciate having such having it in your collection. Tomorrow, we’ll discuss the proper way to wear your perfume and storing your perfume and that will be the end of the series. Below are some of my favorite perfumes containing some amazing notes.
So, you know you have to let me know your thoughts on this post. I know it’s a long series but I’m hoping that I’ve shed some light and given you some knowledge on perfumes.
Hoping to inspire you,
Violaine Diogene
Top Notes: Lilly of the Valley, Rose (white), Apricot Heart Notes: Iris, Lilac, Heliotrope, Peach Base Notes: Sandlewood, Vetiver, Amber, Musk and Vanilla
Top Notes: pink pepper, pear, ruby red grapfruit, peony, rose, geranium, vanilla, creamy musk and tonka
Top Notes: Mandarin, Champaca Flowers, Ivy, African Orchid, Rose, Violet, Damascus Plum, Amaranth Wood, Blackberry Musk.
Top Notes: Lemon notes, mandarin, neroli, and Italian bergamot. The heart introduces Guatemala cardamom, tea leaves, Indian jasmine, and Haitian vetiver, while the base reveals Indonesian patchouli, Indian sandalwood, benzoin and Virginian cedar.
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It’s official as I’m absolutely crazy, head over hills in love with everything and anything that Ines Di Santos designs. I’ve had the sheer joy of seeing some of the most talented designers design some amazing gowns but I find myself at awe with just about anything this brilliant designer puts her hands on.
I must tell you that I can easily stare with my mouth open at Ines Di Santos 2010 Collection as this collection is nothing short of a feast for your darling eyes. These gowns, to simply put are amazing, gorgeous and yes, beautiful. If you’re the bride whom demands absolutely nothing but the best, you’ve met your match as the 2010 collection features nothing less than the most luxurious European silks, impeccable details in the beading and trims in every gown which brings glamour to the highest power.
Ines Di Santos designs her gowns to fit a particular bride’s silhouettes and I promise you that these gowns are designed as if they have a body of their own; yes, the gowns have a body of their own! Well, what do you expect from a woman who’s the embodiment of romance? This amazing designer was born in Italy, raised in Argentina with strong Spanish heritage. I know, it made me giggle when I thought of how it all played into her dresses. To me, not every bride can wear these dresses. An Ines Di Santo bride is a special bride. Just like Ines Di Santos, she too is the embodiment of romance in her own right. She’s daring, she’s bold, when she walks into a room she owns the room with her confidence! She’s exquisite, sophisticated, and can stop traffic dead on!
Now, you know I have to tell you about my personal favorite gown. My only issue is, I love each and every single gown in this collection. Forgive me, I had to include all the pictures below and I had to allow all the dresses a personal moment by not aligning them on the same roll (I know, I’m weird like that) but I’m hoping that you’ve fallen in love with this collection just as much as I have.
After you’ve seen it all, you know I would love to know your thoughts. Tell me about your gown. Tell me why you choose your designer. What drove you to him/her? What do you think about these gowns?
In love with Ines Di Santos,
Violaine Diogene
What can I say about this gown? Can you hear it? Listen closely and you can literally hear the collective gasp that spreads through the crowd the moment you walk onto the aisle to your future husband….. I need to get remarried so that I can wear this gown!
Yes, I know. I too was speechless when I saw this work of art in the form of a gown. Where do I start? This gown features a translucent beaded corset bodice with lace-up back and heavily Swarovski crystal jeweled neckline along with a amazing ballroom skirt.
How many times can I renew my wedding vows? I promise you I’m going to have a reason to wear this gown.
I told you these gowns had a “body” of their own right? Do you believe me now? Gown features fully beaded bodice and beaded appliqué on one side of hip; pick-up skirt.
WOW, WOW and another WOW! Gown features a ruched bodice with peek-a-boo hem revealing handmade roses in soft pink and green hues. Detachable overskirt has roses at side, front and diagonally across centre back.
I know; I was in awe when I saw this gown as well. Gown features ruched bodice and asymmetrical beaded tulle with Swarovski floral motifs on skirt.
I love that this gown features this very prety ruched bodice with the dropped waist and tiered skirt. A pair of daring red stilettos would be stuning!
Have I told how much I love Ines Di Santos?
This gown is the simplest one on this collection but make no mistake as this is a stunner! This gown features a one shoulder strap made with handmade large flowers and the detail skirt has princess seams down front and back with pleated detail.
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For as long as I can remember, every Sunday afternoon I’ll spend some quality time turning the pages of one of my favorite wedding magazines and this Sunday was no different. This little time that I refer to as “Bridal Magazine Time” usually gives me something to think about, chat about and definitely obsessed about and my new obsession (at least for this week) is Stephanie Browne of Australia.
Who is Stephanie Browne? Am I glad you asked…
Stephanie Browne is a designer of elegant couture jewelry with a combination of classic and uncomplicated pieces through to strikingly bold “must have” fashion accessories. Several of her collections are highlighted with head turning feather hair accessories, bejeweled belts and headbands, and stories inspired by the increasingly popular styles of the 1920’s showgirl era. Yes, I know; this must be an incredible collection and let me assure you my sweet darling brides, it is!
Stephanie’s awareness of her customers is legendary. Her unique styling allows the wearer to be reminded of classic elegance of a time gone by. Each design reflects originality and beauty, with each hand made piece ensured to become a treasured possession.
According Stephanie Browne, every piece of her work is an original designed, hand-made collection is made using only the finest of components, from Swarovski crystals and pearls, rhodium non-tarnishing bases, flowing emu and peacock feathers, through to silk flowers. And you know I love peacock feathers and Swarovski crystals.
I’m going to start this favorite category off with this stunning and simply to die for piece and you’re right… these pieces are not for the fainted heart. These pieces are for the bride whom adores boldness and dares to make a statement. My absolute number one pick had to be this piece referred to as St Tropez Headpiece and WOW is all I have to say about that.
Obsessed with anything and everything wedding,
Violaine Diogene
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With all the little pleasures in the world, nothing makes happier than an amazing clutch to compliment my assembles of the evening. It is my honest opinion that a girl can never have too many clutches and I do mean you can never, in this lifetime or the next have to many clutches. Whether I’m attending a cocktail party or a black-tie affair I’m certain a clutch will add true elegance to the look and to make me feel truly amazing, Davie And Chiyo are customizing these spectacular delectable’s. No, this is not a typo and you didn’t misread the post; Davie and Chiyo are truly customizing your clutch with whatever your sweet adorable heart desires. Have I customize one yet? Off course silly, anytime I’ve given a chance to put my name on something I love, you can be certain I will take the opportunity.
These aren’t just any clutch; these little delectables are remarkable, unique and eye-catching in every way and are made of high quality materials and attention to detail ensures the excellence of each clutch. Now, you know that it’s simply my joy to share with you what’s posted on line as well my personal favorites. As you can imagine, I had a hard time choosing just two of these clutches but the first two are the ones that I personally ordered and I just fell madly, passionately and head over hills in love it. And yes, I would like to know your thoughts on these amazing little delectables.
The first very pretty and hip fuchsia clutch was my first order with my name stitched inside! The clutch is made in one of my favorite fabric which is dupioni silk in one of my absolutely favorite colors of fuchsia. The lining is cotton with black and white animal patterns. And because I love bows, I have to have the over sized, eye catching bow on and that’s really what makes this clutch amazing!
The second clutch is the Cream Tiered Rose which is made from two kinds of silk; the structure of the body is made with ivory dupioni silk, with layers and layers of silk charmeuse in cream color sewn around the entire clutch. The silk charmeuse comes into a beautifully sculptured rose in the front of the bag, slightly off-centered. The silk edges are all left raw, giving the layers a very soft look. The clutch is lined with dupioni silk in champagne. Need I say more? Oh, my name is also engraved inside this amazing little pile of dupioni and charmeuse silk. Now, you know I can go on and on about these but why not go visit them online and see which of these little delectables will have your name engraved?
Madly in love with clutches,
Violaine Diogene
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For just about every wedding I’ve had the pleasure of planning, a little man always walks in with a cute little pillow which symbolizes he’s carrying two precious metals. Two precious metals which will be worn by two people who are committing their selves to each other. Two precious metals which will remind two people of a scared vow which was made in the present of friends and family. And this little pillow full of traditions is referred to as the Ring Bearer’s Pillow. Yes, I know you’re well aware of that little fact, but I still have to share it.
Per one of my bride’s request, I’ve been on a hunt for a couture ring bearer’s pillow and while on my journey, I found these stunning little pillows. Now, who would want to throw these away? I love these couture pillows and I love the silk fabrics which they are made out of. Now, you know I’m going to tell you which two are my personal favorites and yes, you guessed it as I had a hard time picking just two out of the 11, simply because I adore all. But I do love anything with feathers and amazing, elegant fabric flowers and because of that, my very first choice is the Paige from Belles & Crystals! This stunning ring bearer pillow is made out of luxurious silk dupioni. A hand cut silk organza flower with a rhinestone center and ostrich feather accent and a satin ribbon accented with Swarovski rhinestones to easily ties secures your several karats; how amazing is that? If you’re planning on wearing a hair pin, why not compliment the look wearing this matching bloom made of 100% silk organza petals and accented with a genuine Swarovski crystal center and wisps of ostrich and hand stripped coque feathers! All I can say is Wow!
My second favorite had to be the Phoebe ivory pillow which is made of luxurious silk dupioni and a stunning artisinal flower. Your rings will be held by a matching double faced satin ribbon perched atop a cluster of shimmering Swarovski pearls! If you love all things detailed like me, you’ll love the fact that you can get matching baskets for your adorable flower girls whom will throw petals at your thrown and what more can a girl ask for?
My Third choice is designed by Y&E Bridal and is absolutely beautiful. The simple, yet vintage pillow is made of ivory soft satin, with embroidered flowers, tiny little pearls with a wide taupe ribbon and covered with a beautiful lace overlay. And finally I had to include this one in my personal favorite simply because of the choice of color. When was the last time you saw a lime green ring pillow? I love this color and this lime green satin ring pillow is decorated with a wide white ribbon and two beautiful white silk roses. Thin green ribbon is attached to hold the rings and a green ribbon is also attached to the back to hold the pillow.
Now, you know I love nothing more than for you to leave me your thoughts. Tell me about the details in your wedding. Do you have pictures of your pillow? What will you do with your pillow after your karats are on your finger?
Passionate about my brides,
Violaine Diogene
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A perfect day in the office for us at André Winfrye Events is when we make a bride’s day by showing her something completely new and she has her “WOW” moment. Today, such a moment came when I introduced one of my brides to a new concept of cake stands! Yes, I said cake stands!
My bride Melisa is planning her dream wedding which will reflect truly her personality and style. Melisa is sexy, fun, stunning, elegant with a hint of funky and I love it. Everything so far as far as her décor goes is out of the norm and I thought her cake stand should be the same. And that’s when I logged onto Raise the Cake to show her what I had in mind for her amazing cake. Melisa was floored by these beautiful and amazing work. These are not your average cake stands!
With these amazing work of arts, you will see how your wedding cake will take center stage with these custom cake platforms. Brightly colored and textured cake stands can match your wedding theme and feature the attributes of your confection, making an elaborate tiered cake even more so or enhancing a small, simple design with added height and interest. Raise the Cake allows you to design your stand by selecting a fabric, color and embellishing it with an assortment of broaches, ribbons, pins and buckles.
As you know, it’s my great pleasure to show you my personal favorites in anything I recommend! I had a hard time choosing between the platforms but the first platform had me at the first sight of burnt orange, soft satin fabric and beautiful broach. What won’t this go with? You can tie this look into your wedding gown, your chair covers and anything else your amazing heart feels like. My second favorite features the stunning silk dark green fabric with hand-cut flowers and tiny little green crystals. Can you see how stunning your cake will look being displayed on one of these pieces of art?
As always, I what do you think of these cake stands? How are you displaying your cake? You know I would love to hear from you.
In love with anything wedding,
Violaine Diogene
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By now, I trust that you know how much I love to make a statement. I love accessories that screams elegant, I love a dress that is classic and certainly I love flowers that are bold and colorful. Some of the most memorable events I’ve attended included the nicest centerpieces that will remain with me for the rest of my life. When going through my photo album of the weddings that I’ve been fortunate enough to plan, I went on the knot to see what else I can show you to bring your creative side out.
Below are some of the nicest arrangements I’ve ever seen and it is my hope that these arrangements will inspire you to think out of the box when it comes to picking your centerpieces.
Did you just ask if I’m going to tell you which ones are my favorites? Don’t be silly, off course I am! What kind of planner would I be if I didn’t tell you which one truly had me at first sight? The first two are most definitely my personal favorites. Wow for the first centerpiece for being one of the most creative centerpiece ideas I have seen in a long time! Heffernan Morgan Designs designed this masterpiece by using classic lampshades and glass vases filled with water and small strands of white orchids. In each lamp was a pink light bulb which provided the soft glow. To finish them off, each centerpiece was lit from the bottom up using a mirrored light box. A fairly involved set-up, but very scene-setting!
My second favorite was achieved by using three cylinder vases were filled with sea glass and LED light cubes which provided that stunning but soft glow. Your eyes can’t help but stare at blush cymbidium orchids, cream peonies, white hydrangeas, lisianthus, and roses.
Well, what do you think of these centerpieces? How will you use these to inspire your décor? Did you choose your centerpieces already? I would love nothing more than for you to share your pictures and your thoughts with me.
Hoping to inspire you,
Violaine
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It is simply an understatement to say that Vera Wang understands your wedding gown represents more than just a dress. Vera Wang knows that the gown of your choice is the ultimate expression of the lady that you’ve grown to be. Your gown expresses the sides of you that perhaps rarely seen. Your gown can bring out the princess side of you, the diva side of you, the glamorous side of you and simply the very classic side of you.
For what’s considered to be one of the most timeless moments in your life, Vera Wang designs gowns to meet every woman’s style and feature. I hope you’ll find the gowns below to be of inspiration and do visit Vera Wang for more information.
As always, I love to get your opinions on my posts. What do you think of these gowns? What kind of gown will you be wearing? How and where did you find your gown?
Inspired by you,
Violaine Diogene
To me, pictures are worth a million words. Pictures tells a story in a fashion like non other. A brilliant photographer can make you feel as though you personally know the person who’s being photographed, as though you can feel the essence of the love and passion instilled between a bride and groom. A brilliant photographer can show you the excitement in a newly engaged couple awaiting their day to become husband and wife. With my obsession for amazing photography, I came across the work of Keith Cephus out of Virginia Beach, VA but certainly travels all over the world to photograph people from all walks of life. I have to tell you that I’ve worked with some amazing photographers in my 13 years of planning weddings and events and very rarely do I gasp at the site of a photograph but these photographs managed to get a few gasps out of me.
I love these engagement photos which I’m so privilege share with you. Keith managed to infuse seduction into his engagement sessions. There is nothing traditional about these pictures and that’s why I love Keith’s style! I simply love how seductive these pictures are. I love the boldness of these photos and can appreciate the creative edge it takes to photograph these beautiful couples. One of my favorite pictures is of the lady in red on the hood of the car. I love the bright light on her face while the hood of the car serves as a mirror which clearly reflects how beautiful she is and highlights her bright, red lipstick. I love how her smile simply shines in the picture and further more, I love how her fiancée is casually sitting back and looking at her. I love that Keith focused on the bride and showed very nice details of her but managed to include the groom in great details as well.
It takes a creative, bold, spontaneous couple to go take such pictures. As always, I would love to know your thoughts. What do you think? What kind of photographer are you looking for? What’s important to you? Leave me your thoughts on the pictures below.
Best wishes,
Violaine Diogene
