Sailor's Wife for Me

Sapling Press

2011-04-10T10:08:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Design Editor and Swiss Miss for introducing me to Sapling Press. I laughed out loud while reading these cards for the first time. They're just perfect.

Check out they're Etsy page for more amazing stationary.

Panama City Finds

2011-03-15T11:29:00.001-04:00

Fist-pumping perfect nautical finds from our favorite Panama City store thanks to my lovely mother.

Soon-to-be new additions to the apartment! Whahooooooo!

1. Shabby Chic Wooden Wall Organizer 2. Nautical Star 3. Signal Flags 4. Signal Flag Pillow

Peaches to the Beaches

2011-03-14T11:40:00.000-04:00

I'm not sure if any of you are familiar with Peaches to the Beaches, but I can explain in three words -- 200 mile yardsale. Yes, it is a yardsale that stretches from Perry, Ga. to Brunswick, Ga. And my friends, we conquered it all. My sweet trooper of a fiance, his dad and his dad's girlfriend drove along highway 341 all the way to the beach. Not only did we have an absolute blast doing it, but we found some pretty fantastic finds along the way.

From top to bottom:
1. Antique Blue Mason Jars - $15
2. Sailor Oil Painting - $15 (We call him Capt. Joe Mcrae Brunswick IV)
3. 1940's Clipper Ship Trash Bin - $14
4. Turquoise Pottery Bowl - $5 (fruit not included)
5. Antique Bread Cupboard - $10
6. Glass Pitcher - $5

Our New Apartment - Sneak Peak

2011-03-10T13:37:00.002-05:00

I'm pretty sure this has been the most adult week of my life. To start, David and I moved into a new apartment last Friday -- an incredible new apartment! All I have to say is whitewash brick, hardwood floors and exposed beams. Swoon. A couple of teaser photos are below with much more to come as we get moved in. It's pretty much my favorite place EVER.

A recap of my day yesterday: I worked an 8 hour day and was super stressed out about my job, we have SO much to do and clean at the apartment, I currently do not have enough money to buy things that I want for the apartment and I actually stopped myself from buying them, our brand spankin' new washer and dryer were delivered(LG front loaders with STEAM, I die) -- and then the kicker, David and I sat down to go through coupons before going grocery shopping. Hello adulthood - nice to meet you.

Oh, and just for fun -- here are a couple pictures of the new loves of my life. I literally sat on the ground and watched after putting in our first load. Yes, this is my life.

Seafaring Affair

2011-02-23T18:16:00.000-05:00

A big thanks to Etsy Weddings today for pulling together this collection of nautical treasures. I'll have one of each. Thanks.

I need a vacation

2011-02-17T14:43:00.000-05:00

Dreaming of meandering through the streets of Florence today. Sooner or later we will get there. But while we wait, I'll just look at this really cool screen print of the city map.

Valentine's Cards

2011-02-15T13:52:00.002-05:00

Life is busy, really busy, but I finally made time to craft. Thank goodness. I was afraid my creative genes were starting to atrophy. Here are the Valentine's Day cards I made for my Sailor and my mom with paper, scissors, a glue stick and a lot of TV. I hope everyone had a wonderful day with their loved ones!

DIY Sailor's Knot

2011-01-02T20:34:00.005-05:00

I just stumbled across this DIY via Design*Sponge and about fell out of my chair. How wonderfully perfect is this? I have been debating ordering this knot doorstop, but now I might just make my own instead!

Christmas Gift Tags

2010-12-24T22:21:00.000-05:00

Some last minute gift tag freebies via Creature Comforts! Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

1. Creature Comforts 2. Creature Comforts 3. Eat Drink Chic 4. Miss Pickles Press 5. Poppytalk

Scrapwood Wallpaper

2010-12-14T13:13:00.003-05:00

I am absolutely in love with this scrapwood wallpaper by Piet Hein Eek. I cannot wait until I have a house to put some in! Or maybe even incorporate it into the wedding somehow... hmmmmm... Either way, it shall be mine!

*Found via A Cup of Jo and sfgirlbybay

Lonny Magazine

2010-12-13T16:07:00.003-05:00

The first step is admitting you have a problem. Well, I have a problem -- I am addicted to discovering beautiful digital magzines. And oh baby, have I found a good one. I'm obsessing over Lonny Magazine right now. Ob. Sessing. Seriously, it is just plain fantastic.

*Found via sfgirlbybay

Paper Garland

2010-12-12T23:36:00.006-05:00

So this year I got a little crafty with our Christmas decorations. I made this garland out of gold and silver paper, a rubber stamp, a 1.5" hole punch, fishing line and a hot glue gun. Here are my little how-to pictures for some lovely and super easy DIY garland! Merry Christmas!

Room with a view

2010-12-08T15:12:00.003-05:00

A view like this is the cause for much reflection on well-spent semester -- the last semester of my college career. Yesterday was my last day of class and tomorrow will be my last day interning with the Madison CVB. My college experience has been, in one word, blessed and spent with such wonderful people. I have loved, learned, lost and loved so much more. Here's to you December 2010 graduates. This is only the beginning.

We wish you a merry Christmas and a happy reindeer

2010-12-03T11:25:00.004-05:00

I'm really into reindeer and moose decor pieces right now. They are just super festive and add so much interest to a room. Holidays or everyday, I'm lovin' the antlers. These are some of my faves.

1. Creature Comforts 2. Vintage brass deer 3. The City Cradle 4. Coco + Kelley 5. Absolutely Beautiful Things 6. The Bake Lab 7. Antler pillow cover

Giovanni's Lobster Pate

2010-12-02T19:39:00.003-05:00

All due to this picture via The Wedding Chicks and Paper & Thread Studio (who is doing our save the dates, by the way, and they are FABULOUS), I have been dying to get my hands on these little lobster tins. I finally found them here through a random website, but now that I found them I have no idea what to do with them.

At first, I thought they were empty tins, but apparently they actually have lobster pate in them.. I never even knew lobster pate existed until now. Do I just sit some around for added interest? They are just too perfect for me to forget. Lobster pate anyone?

Cinco de Marriage-O

2010-12-02T12:00:00.001-05:00

Fact: We are getting married on May 7th. Fact: We are going to the beach a few days before the wedding to plan, play and party. Also, fact: The Thursday before our wedding is CINCO DE MAYO, which in turn means CINCO DE MAYO PARTY!!!! And my planning of said fiesta begins with one of these fan-freaking-tastic pinatas.

Oh, and this garland. FAB.

Found courtesy of A Cup of Jo! (Of course.)

This tree needs you

2010-12-01T12:01:00.003-05:00

I have a very strong affection for the Charlie Brown holiday series. A Charlie Brown Christmas still makes me cry every time. Every time. So when I found this little guy at Urban Outfitters, I had to buy it immediately.

Of course, I had to add my own touches.. :)

dujour Magazine

2010-11-30T13:35:00.008-05:00

Stumbled upon this little today gem thanks to Eat Drink Chic. Their new handmade issue is simply stunning. I am seeing a subscription in my near future.

Check out the sneak preview of the handmade edition below.

Etsy Love

2010-11-29T12:04:00.003-05:00

Oh how I love this anchor cameo necklace. Love. Love. Love. A bit too Victorian and dark for the wedding, but not so for the honeymoon!

Straw Hand Fans

2010-11-27T17:36:00.002-05:00

I'm loving these natural-looking hand fans from Shore Chic! For those color craving individuals, you can customize the fans with pretty ribbon handles too.

An Anthropologie Christmas

2010-11-17T17:51:00.001-05:00

I can't lie. I am SO in the Christmas spirit and it's not even Thanksgiving. I'm doing a little DIY Christmas decor this year and these Anthropologie ornaments are definitely inspriring me.

Redo My Shoe

2010-11-16T19:15:00.002-05:00

My mouth is still hanging wide open in awe after finding these on Etsy. The creator of Redo My Shoe takes shoes (these both happen to be Christian Louboutin covered in Swarovski crystals.. I die..) and makes them look like this! Ummmmm... FAB. U. LOUS! If I wasn't getting married on sand.. I might just sell a kidney to wear some of these.

Quilting with Maw Maw

2010-11-05T14:13:00.007-04:00

So lately I have been in a crafting craze. I spent a few days with my grandmother this past weekend finishing a quilt we started when I was a teenager.. and after years of off and on sewing it's finally DONE! Not only did we produce a beautiful quilt, but we also had a blast doing it. There's not much better than spending time with Maw Maw and learning how to sew from the master seamstress.

Horizon Field

2010-11-04T14:38:00.003-04:00

I recently created this as a project in my web design class. I didn't know what to expect at first, but now that it's finished, I kinda love it.

If you ever get a chance, stop by Horizon Field in Acworth! It will change your life.

Gifted Magazine

2010-11-02T19:29:00.005-04:00

I am still slightly drooling over Gifted Magazine by Creature Comforts. It's chock full of beautiful inspiration, creative gift suggestions and DIY ideas. Honestly, it's just stunning. It is without a doubt my new favorite magazine. See it for yourself!

Open publication - Free publishing - More christmas

The Bucket List

2010-11-01T18:13:00.006-04:00

If you live in Athens, get to Add Drug immediately. I honestly believe the pimento cheeseburger is the best burger I've ever had. I couldn't stop thinking about it for days... Confessions of a fat kid.. Seriously. This drug store soda counter is Mayberry precious and the sweet, little ladies that serve you make the small-town feel all the more convincing.

Ouma

2010-10-28T20:14:00.006-04:00

I'm dying over these fabulous party dresses by Ouma. DYING.

*Photography by GALAXIE ANDREWS

Engagement Pictures Part 2

2010-10-25T13:26:00.008-04:00

My excitement for our engagement pictures still hasn't calmed down! So glad we finally have some decent pictures together.

Engagement Pictures!

2010-10-22T12:48:00.010-04:00

So it only took us a solid year to get our engagement pictures taken. Totally normal. The incredible, amazing, wonderful ladies of the VUE did a fantastic job! We are so pumped that they shot our engagement session! Thank you so much Genya & Wesleyann!

Here are a couple of my faves..

Feeling crafty.. and I like it.

2010-10-21T15:22:00.004-04:00

Stopped by my favorite and my Sailor's least favorite store yesterday, good 'ol Hobby Lobby! Picked up a $3 twig wreath, some faux leaves and this Happy Thanksgiving sign for half off. I love how everything is always on sale there. A hot glue gun, some wire and a couple of Glee episodes later, this was my creation.. It makes me love our front door so!

The Bucket List: Men v. Athens' Food

2010-10-12T20:35:00.008-04:00

So before my Sailor and I get hitched and move away from God's country, better known as Athens, Ga., we have decided to embark upon a great journey, a journey that is not meant for the faint of stomach. With one semester left, we are going head to head with Athens' finest eateries. From the stuff that made Italy famous to the down home cookin' of Athens natives, we are attempting to taste it all!

Our first stop was a local pizza place that we've probably driven past 500 times without noticing. And let me just tell you how much I regret my oversight. Mama Sid's should be in every UGA students list of go to food joints. It's cheap and delicious and all-you-can-eat. Need I say more?

These are called "dough nuggets". Not so much on the diet, but oh so much on the bucket list. Every UGA senior must go to Mama Sid's immediately.

Today and everyday in the Classic City, Athens' food wins.

My plates have arrived!

2010-10-11T19:54:00.008-04:00

My vintage US Navy plates from Etsy were waiting on my doorstep when we came home this weekend! I am already imagining dinner parties! :)

I may be a huge nerd, but the fact that these plates were actually created for the midshipmen of the US Navy to eat on during during WWII is just SO cool to me.

Inspiration Board Evolution

2010-10-10T21:10:00.005-04:00

While organizing all of my wedding files, I came across my first two inspiration boards that I made over a year ago. It all started with peacocks, extravagant decor and typical beach inspiration...

While I still love these inspiration boards, they just aren't our style. Now, a year later, we are here...

Vintage, eclectic, romantic, nautical. What a difference a year makes!

Terra Cotta + Blue

2010-10-07T16:25:00.006-04:00

I'm really loving terra cotta & blue combos right now. Probably because it reminds me of our wedding designs. I never thought of the accent color as "terra cotta", but it's not orange and it's not tan.. it's in between. Really it's terra cotta.

And the terra cotta + navy combos I found on coco+kelley are really just spot on perect. Absolutely perfect.

1. Desert Beads 2. Vintage Table 3. Real Simple Magazine

My Sparrow

2010-10-02T00:02:00.006-04:00

Just discovered My Sparrow courtesy of A Cup of Jo and I absolutely adore their inspired and eco-friendly home decor!

1. Knot Door Stop 2. Recycled Tea Light Holders 3. Linen Stripe Pillow 4. Dainty Glasses 5. Dainty Glass Flutes <-- (How gorgeous are these??)

My Workspace Makeover

2010-09-30T09:36:00.004-04:00

My workspace used to be a very sad place.

But one amazing yard sale changed it all! With some 25 cent picture frames, some 50 cent fabric and a couple $1 candlestick holders and bookends, my workspace is totally inspired! Perfect for wedding planning!

My Registry Favorite!

2010-09-27T17:07:00.007-04:00

After a full weekend of wedding registering at Target and Macy's, my sweet Sailor asked what was my favorite thing on our registry. My answer was easy. Our Vietri dinnerware! I absolutely ADORE these dishes which are from the Vietri Incanto collection! My wonderful mom was sweet enough to buy us our first place setting! They will serve as both our fine china...

and when paired with a few patterned Dansk pieces, our everyday, casual dinnerware!

And as many of you know, I have an extreme Etsy obsession. These Etsy-bought, vintage Tepco US Navy plates will also be added to complete our casual dinnerware. I just couldn't stop myself. I. am. obsessed.

Jonathan Adler

2010-09-21T14:17:00.005-04:00

I am crushing on all the new items at Jonathan Adler today. From the iPhone covers to the precious foot stools. And he is stealing my heart with some new nautical pieces!

Etsy Lovesss

2010-09-09T15:17:00.013-04:00

I want to decorate a room with much of these things. I am lusting.

1. Sunburst Driftwood Mirror 2. Driftwood Cabinet 3. Summer Breeze Chair 4. Porthole Cabinet 5. Driftwood Heart

Dress Confession

2010-09-07T10:48:00.005-04:00

Ok, as most of you know I am TERRIFIED of trying on a wedding dress. I have no idea why, but I suffer from extreme wedding dress anxiety. So now for my confession.. The other day while shopping for engagement outfits, I TRIED ON MY FIRST WEDDING DRESS! And I LOVED it!! Not like I bought it loved it, but I was actually really happy with the way I looked in it. Which really is the stem of all of my dress anxiety. It wasn't anything extravagant or even anything you would expect, but here it is..

I was quite enthralled with the back of the dress.

I found it at Nordstrom and it is part of the Sue Wong Alice in Wonderland collection. Told you. Nothing you would have expected.

Havana Blue Extended Cut

2010-09-01T20:36:00.005-04:00

Havana Blue is so pretty. Just so pretty.

This little secluded patio just hits the spot. So romantic.

Meet the new Intern!

2010-09-01T14:01:00.007-04:00

I just started a new internship with the Madison Georgia Convention & Visitors Bureau and I am super pumped! Madison is full of beautiful antebellum architecture, incredible restaurants, great downtown shopping and it was the only town that Sherman refused to burn!

Follow this blog as I recount all of my intern experiences and for a fresh perspective on an all around great town with a rich historical background.

Bling Band-Aids

2010-08-30T18:06:00.003-04:00

I almost am wishing for a boo boo now that I discovered these blingin' Band-Aids. Just a little, tiny boo boo though.

*Found via Oh Joy!

Etsy Love

2010-08-30T12:05:00.005-04:00

Loving all of the shabby chic items from GloryBDesign.

From top to bottom: 1. Carved Wooden Mirror 2. Vintage Piano Stool 3. Vintage Memo Board 4. Child's Rocking Chair 5. Vintage Vanity Chair

My New Favorite Shirt

2010-08-28T13:22:00.004-04:00

This weekend is all about engagement photo outfit shopping. Stumbled across this gem at J. Crew yesterday and fell in LOVE. Pair it with some white linen shorts and put me on a sailboat. Cape Cod here I come!

It comes in red too! To. die. for.

If I were a camper..

2010-08-26T18:29:00.003-04:00

I would totally use these sleeping bags!

And they come with cute, matching carrying bags..

*Found via A Cup of Joe

Etsy Love

2010-08-24T15:42:00.006-04:00

Loving these jewelry trees from Red Bark Designs. I want one in my room asap.

They just look like they are flowering with jewelry. So pretty. And then without jewelry.. gorgeous naked tree! Love.

Etsy Love of the Day: Dani Notes Stationary

2010-08-20T15:04:00.006-04:00

I must have these return address labels from Dani Notes Stationary ASAP!

And can we take a moment to envision our child's first birthday party (someday) with these cupcake toppers, plate and platter..

And then a grown up party with these customizable melamine plates..

Before & After

2010-08-20T08:36:00.006-04:00

I recently became acquainted with magic of Sips n Strokes. The perfect wedding planning de-stressing activity. You bring the wine and they bring your artistic skill. I started out with my painting station looking like this...

And thanks to their step by step directions, my canvas ended up looking like this..

And this...

If you can't tell (and that is huge possibility), the first is a boat and the second is a nautilus shell. Yes, they are both nautical. Did you expect something different from me? :)

Etsy Love of the Day

2010-08-19T15:17:00.008-04:00

I just can't get over how beautiful these brooch wedding bouquets from LionsgateDesigns are!

Vineyard Vines New Collections

2010-08-19T09:33:00.004-04:00

I'm loving Vineyard Vines new knot print collection.

And how about their newest cardigan collection. So great. I can just imagine wearing one of these on a crisp fall night watching the Dawgs play.

Rehearsal Dinner Lovin

2010-08-18T18:26:00.010-04:00

My wonderful and sweet fiance booked our rehearsal dinner venue! He's so great. Get ready for the culinary magic of Panama City's Boatyard. Their Lobster BLT is oh my lanta, and the gouda grits.. shut. up.

The atmosphere is amazing as it is actually a boatyard and boats come and go throughout your meal. The dock in front of the Boatyard is also home to Panama City's own pirate ship, the Sea Dragon.

Etsy Love of the Day

2010-08-17T14:50:00.004-04:00

I'm feeling crafty today. I love these nautical craft charms.

Not sure what I would use them for just yet, but maybe for this...

*Via 100 Layer Cake

Bridal Party Gifts Continued!

2010-08-16T10:06:00.010-04:00

The previous post about our the gifts for our bridal party was a little brief, so I wanted to go round 2 and show a few more details! Here is the finalized shirt..

We put the airbrushed tees in a sand bucket with some little cutesy nautical themed trinkets. A koozie and rubber ducky for the boys and a koozie and notepad/pen combo for the girls.

Etsy Love of the Day

2010-08-12T18:27:00.006-04:00

Today's Etsy Love of the Day is a great print and design shop called Beyond Design. They have some super cute and unique invites and save-the-dates! Love. Love. Love.

Etsy Love of the Day

2010-08-11T16:06:00.004-04:00

Thanks to a lovely friend of mine, I get to show you my Etsy Love of the day! These nautilus shell screenprinted silk neckties are just too wonderful! Please and thank you.

Oh and while we are on ties by Toybreaker, can I just say how obsessed I am with THESE Clipper Ship neckties?! Groomsmen.. start planning accordingly. :)

Thanks Ashleigh for the inspiration!!

The Surprise Twist!

2010-08-11T13:55:00.010-04:00

Okay so I know that we went through the whole venue selection process and it was quite a stressful time, but now we have a new surprise twist! Some of you may remember Havana Blue from previous posts and how much we loved it. Well after much planning and chatting and freaking out, I am so excited to announce that we will now be having the reception at Havana Blue in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida!

Don't worry.. we are still having the ceremony at my first love, the beautiful beach of Carillon! Having the combination of the two has worked out perfectly for us! Both Carillon and Havana Blue have been so incredible during all the craziness of planning and they are truly making our dream wedding come true! Only 269 days until I marry my best friend and I CANNOT wait!

Our Wedding Website!

2010-08-10T14:44:00.006-04:00

So it is definitely still a work in progress, but I am excited to reveal the beginnings of our wedding website! We are using Project Wedding which provides FREE wedding websites for brides and grooms. How great is that? I also added a link to the right for easy access. Only 270 days until our wedding! SO excited!!

Etsy Love of the Day: Londonxox

2010-08-10T09:09:00.004-04:00

Today I am loving these fabulous feather headpieces from Londonxox.

These gorgeous headpieces are not only helpful to vintage inspired brides, but they are also helping save animals as well! Seller Londonxox donates a portion of all of her proceeds to local animal shelters. Just so good all around.

Cheese Wedding Cakes

2010-08-09T19:44:00.002-04:00

I think I have found my wedding cake... These cheese wheel wedding cakes are genius!

Found via A Cup of Jo

Speaking of table linens.. plus Friday Fab Finds!

2010-08-06T12:10:00.007-04:00

Can you say OBSESSED? This navy & aqua wedding from Coco + Kelley gets me every time.

*Photography by Amelia Lyon

Friday Fab Finds..

What a cute bride.

The perfect picnic.. oh my goodness!

A GORGEOUS summertime wedding.

May be my new favorite photographer.

The Notebook inspired engagement photos.. precious!!

If you're in Athens, you have to stop by our newest boutique Cheeky Peach! Everything is under $100!

Inspired by nautical summer weddings.

And my favorite: a photo captures the romantic reunion as a sailor returns home. The beautiful story here.

Etsy Love of the Day

2010-08-06T10:10:00.005-04:00

First, I want to apologize for my abrupt absence in posting for the last week or so. I have been a bit under the weather, but I'm back!

Ok now that that's taken care of, here is my Etsy Love of the Day! How great is this boat patterned fabric from AuntJune!

This post just puts me in the mood for some wedding table setting inspiration. Perhaps not this exact boat fabric, but I know for sure that I want patterned fabric for my table linens.

We have our swim trunks and our bridal party!

2010-08-04T19:02:00.003-04:00

Cat's out of the bag! We officially have our bridal party! And these little gems are how we asked each of them to be in it. You can't have a Panama City wedding without AIRBRUSH TEES!

"We have our swim trunks and our bridal party" was also added to the top left corner on the back. Each shirt says the persons name on the front with the exception of mine and my Sailors which say "Bride" and "Groom" respectively. Thanks so much to the sweet lady at Island Market who stayed up all night to make these possible.

We placed each t-shirt in a beach bucket and gave them to our bridal party at a really special get-together on July 24th. We are so fortunate for such wonderful friends and family. Thank you so so much everyone for making this experience everything we could hope for. You are each so special to us and we love you all!

Urban Escape

2010-07-28T12:43:00.006-04:00

As I sit at my desk, I can't help but dream of a tropical paradise somewhere waiting for me. Since there is no time for vacay, I want to jump in a hammock for an urban escape. I can't think of a better way to relax than laying in a hammock watching the clouds float by.

Top to bottom:
1. Matrimonial Hammock 2. Tranquil Paradise Hammock 3. Nantucket Hammock 4. Barbados Hammock

Photogenic

2010-07-27T14:34:00.007-04:00

Beyond the traditional wedding photos, I am just so in love with the idea of a photo booth. Some of my favorite memories have been in wedding photo booths. One of these memories being my Sailor and I's second date at a family friend's wedding. Luckily I saved a quick snapshot of the photos on my phone..

The photo booth somehow fit both my parents, myself, my Sailor and my sister-in-law -- all in costume. Love.

As for my wedding, I found Magnolia Photo Booth Co., an incredible photo booth company, that provides this precious photo booth, suitcases of props, instant prints, web access to all the photos and a coffee table book of all the photos taken at the event. Too bad they don't have them in Ga or Fla..

I also found these super cute photo props from Smitten Sticks! Love love them.

Etsy Love of the Day

2010-07-23T16:47:00.003-04:00

So maybe not for a bridesmaid, but does anyone need a necklace and/or outfit ideas for the wedding? Because this Coral Red Organza Flower Bib Necklace is just precious!

What's cookin?

2010-07-22T14:42:00.010-04:00

I'm completely consumed with kitchen wares and china sets today. I feel so domestic.

My all-time fave dinnerware has got to be Vietri's Incanto collection. These Italian-inspired pieces are all unique and great for mixing and matching! Incanto translates to enchantment, and I am definitely enchanted by this collection!

With it's intricate sealife depictions and little nautical touches,
Anthropologie's From the Deep Dinnerware may just be my new favorite.

I first ran across these vintage Tepco U.S. Navy dinnerware pieces in the nautical antique store I fell in love with in San Diego. After a bit of searching, I found them again on an Etsy listing. I'm crushing hard.

Oh, and how great is this Anthropologie apron??

Etsy Love of the Day

2010-07-22T14:30:00.002-04:00

Loving this Peacock and Cobalt Nexus Multi Strand Gemstone Bracelet from seller Catrocks. I'm thinking multi strand jewelry for bridesmaids is a must.

Etsy Love of the Day

2010-07-21T16:07:00.005-04:00

How great is this vintage travel bar? Have a destination wedding to go to? Grab your vintage travel bar and bring the party with you wherever you go!

Etsy Loves of the Day

2010-07-19T13:07:00.005-04:00

Today I am crushing on nautical themed totes! How wonderful would these be as beach bags?

Top to bottom:
1. Anchor Beach Tote 2. Stockholm Tote 3. Sailor Tote Bag

Cake Toppers: The Good, the Funny and the Creepy

2010-07-16T13:49:00.012-04:00

Keeping with the Etsy Love of the Day theme, here are a couple of my favorite cake toppers. ...Aanndd a few others.

Love is all you need.

Adorable.

If we're being honest... this might should be our cake topper.

Can't help but love this little love pinch.

"He's her lobster."

Love the palm trees, but this is just a bit riskay..

And this, this is just creepy.

I get love birds, love bugs and love nest, but love tomatoes??

Til death do us part??

Ok, this is just disturbing. Inter-species wedding? No words.

Again, I'm speechless. Does anyone even know what these are??

Top to bottom:
1. LOVE 2. Leg Pop 3. Cell Phone Fanatics 4. Lobsters 5. Love Pinch 5. Over the Threshold Hawaiian 6. Custom 7. Love Tomatoes 8. Dia De Los Muertos 9. Inter-species Couple 10. Custom Unidentified Animals

Etsy Love of the Day

2010-07-16T13:29:00.005-04:00

I absolutely love when I stumble upon a gem such as this on Etsy. It's finds like this that can stop me dead in my tracks leaving me confused and happy and grinning from ear to ear. It's an item like this that just quite honestly refreshes my day. I hope this Military Super Sexy Cake Topper brightens your day like it did mine.

This ridiculously awesome cake topper comes complete with the military seal of your choosing. Of course, I went with the Navy seal.

Summertime Blues

2010-07-15T15:06:00.008-04:00

No, this title does not refer to my state of mind.. I'm in San Diego with the man of my dreams! How could I have the blues? It refers to my current obsession: blue furniture. I just can't help myself. To me, a blue accent makes every room feel happy, and what better way to add that accent than with a gorgeous piece of painted blue furniture.

1. Dreamy Blue Cabinet 2. Elegant Clawfoot Buffet 3. Pool Blue Dresser 4. Lisa Teague's House 5. Absolutely Beautiful Things

Etsy Love of the Day

2010-07-15T13:17:00.003-04:00

Nautical inspired items are ENDLESS on Esty. And this makes Morgan a very happy girl.

Today's Etsy love of the day is this lovely, vintage Sea-Farers Charm Bracelet complete with gorgeous nautical charms and other funky little trinkets. I'm crushing hard. The seller, Pinguim, features tons of other charming vintage items for sale.

San Diego Bound

2010-07-13T17:04:00.002-04:00

Because I am jetting off to San Diego tomorrow to visit my Sailor during his Navy Annual Training, I felt it only right to post this lovely little Palm Springs wedding courtesy of Style Me Pretty.

Just gorgeous. I'm dying over her dress.

Photos via Sarah Yates.

Etsy Love of the Day

2010-07-13T09:41:00.011-04:00

I'm so obsessed with Etsy lately that I am going to start an Etsy Love of the Day post.

Today's Etsy Love is an incredibly inspiring hand stamped pendant.

Courtesy of the seller, One Life Jewelry, this piece was inspired by
an excerpt from New York Times Bestseller, and the book that I am currently reading, Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. Purchase this book and read it NOW if you have not already. Listen to how beautiful Gilbert's writing is:

"The last line of the Divine Comedy, in which Dante is faced with the vision of God Himself, is a sentiment that is still easily understandable by anyone familiar with so-called modern Italian. Dante writes that God is not merely a blinding vision of glorious light, but that He is, most of all, 'l’amor che move il sole e l’altre stelle…' 'The love that moves the sun and the other stars.'”

How wonderful!! Whether it is a street sign, 'dare precedenza', for example, which so beautifully means 'yield', or a quote from Dante, the Italian language always seems to sweep me off my feet.

A couple things I need

2010-07-12T16:07:00.007-04:00

One. A band. My band of choice is Rupert's Orchestra, but hello PRICEY. I've also heard great things about The Grapevine, but they are booked. I've looked up a bunch online, but it is so hard to tell from a small sound clip. What I really need is band recommendations. If you have any, please please PLEASE let me know!

Two. This sign.

I found it hanging on the front door to the Man & the Sea Museum in PC.. totally random. If you or anybody you know has seen this sign, please contact ME.

Etsy Love

2010-07-10T15:05:00.008-04:00

Just a few of my current Etsy obsessions..

Top to bottom:
1. Turquoise Matte Lace Bowl 2. Vintage Mermaid Salt & Pepper Shakers 3. So Very Happy Print 4. Nautical Place Cards 5. Handmade Mediterranean Tile Ring

All perfect for a nautical wedding, yes? And how wonderful are these hand painted wine glasses?

These would be great wedding gifts.. And, of course, I'm not implying anything by that.. I'm just saying. :)

Signed, Sealed, Delivered!

2010-07-08T13:08:00.005-04:00

The votes have been tallied and all factors have been considered. The decision was certainly not easy and was the cause of many emotional break-downs in the past month. We are so very excited to announce that we will be getting married at.... CARILLON! On what date? Oh yeah, 5-7-11! Whoop! Whoop! What's that you say? Yes. That IS the exact same location and date as before. After a month of panic and stress, we have come full circle in our search and landed right back at the original venue of our dreams, Carillon Beach.

We are so excited for this special day and look forward to sharing it with family and close friends. So mark your calendars for 5-7-11 and grab a seat because the real work is just beginning!

Venue Six: Havana Blue

2010-07-02T19:45:00.007-04:00

Finally, we have Carillon's one true contender: Bentley's on the Bay's new venue, Havana Blue. It is right across the street from Bentley's and sits on the same bay! Wanna know where we are getting married?? You're just one post away!

View of Havana Blue from the road. They planted a bunch of palm tree to separate the area and make it much more private.

The dock.. quite possibly my favorite thing about Havana Blue. We could leave on a boat!

Covered deck area. Love it.

Uncovered deck area. It will have the same string lights as Bentley's.

Yes, there is an inside area with a bar and A/C!

The low-down on Havana Blue:
For me, it was love at first sight. Havana Blue is unique and BRAND-SPANKIN'-NEW. Who doesn't love new stuff? Like wearing clothes for the first time or being the first of your friends to discover a really cool band. I love new stuff. It's so new in fact, that it isn't even finished yet. When these pictures were taken, there was still about 4 weeks left of work. Once it is finished, it would basically look like I want my wedding to look - with navy and green accents and decorated with classy, tropical furniture. This venue has enough room to hold both the ceremony and the reception and the best part about Havana Blue - you can bring your own vendors! This is so rare for locations along 30A!

But after the initial luster wears off, there are a couple serious drawbacks to this venue. First, there are no on-site accommodations. For me, this is a biggy - I want everyone to stay near and at least have the option to stay at the same place. This also eliminates a little bit of the drinking and driving risk. In the words of Damon Evans, "If you drink and drive, you lose."

Another big draw-back with Havana Blue is the contract is a teeny bit over-reaching. For most people, this is not a big deal considering it is written in lawyer jargon and they probably would just skim over it. But not for us Ingram's. Oh no, I have been blessed (and cursed, ha) with an attorney for a father. Ol' daddy caught that little clause in the contract that basically made us an insurance company for the venue if anything were to go wrong.. even if it was COMPLETELY their fault. Good catch on that one Roberto. He eventually caught up with the owner via telephone and after an hour long convo convinced him to change the contract. By the end of their chat, this dude was basically in love with my dad and is asking to take him out to dinner.. go figure. Only Roberto.

So, the verdict on Havana Blue: Although Damon makes DUIs seem pretty glamorous, it's just too risky to have a venue with nowhere for guests to stay.

Venue Five: Bentley's on the Bay

2010-06-29T17:13:00.008-04:00

Nestled on the Choctawhatchee Bay in Santa Rosa Beach, Fla., Bentley's on the Bay offers a unique alternative to the beach wedding. The setting is beautiful and offers a much more private location than the very public gulf front.

"Beach" area for outdoor ceremonies

Outdoor reception area:

Part covered

Part uncovered

LOVE the dramatic strung lights on the deck

Prettttyyyy

Indoor reception area

The low-down on Bentley's:
Bentley's is unique. To me, that's a huge draw. And it's private. It is nice to know that you wouldn't have randos wandering around in the background or maybe even the foreground of your beach wedding ceremony. Also, the bridal suite at Bentley's is gorgeous!

The biggest drawback of Bentley's is the fact that there is nowhere for people to stay on the property. I love my family and friends too much to allow them to face that deadly option, the option of drinking and driving. I'd much rather have a place where everyone can stay at the same place-- and how much more fun is that anyway?

While on the tour of Bentley's, we were told they have a second venue that isn't even open yet, Havana Blue.. A brand new venue? Now, you're talking my language. So, we headed across the street to check it out. Forget Bentley's we wanted Havana Blue!

Venue Four: Seaside

2010-06-27T14:11:00.012-04:00

With it's brightly colored, unique homes, fun beach-inspired boutiques and seafront eateries, Seaside is a picturesque beach town.

The Chapel

Outdoor reception area across from the Chapel

It's surrounded by cute little boutiques and beautiful trees.

Stage area

Unrelated mermaid painting that I passed walking around in Seaside, but I just thought it was AWESOME!

Again, unrelated, but how beautiful?! I need this on my front porch.

The low-down on Seaside:
Seaside is picturesque. Beautiful. Quaint. Happening. Everything you want on a beach vacation. There is always something going on in Seaside from concerts to daily specials at Bud & Alley's. Like some venue options before, Seaside is PERFECT for a vaction, but if you ask me, there's just a little too much going on for a wedding. A little self-centered, yes, but doesn't every bride want to be the center of attention on her big day? There are just too many people and too much going on to have your day feel special. I don't want to be lost in a crowd on my wedding day.

Venue Three: Alys Beach

2010-06-18T13:01:00.009-04:00

All I can say about Alys beach is that it is a Mediterranean oasis on the Emerald Coast. Tropical extravagance.

These photos are all of the Caliza Pool. Too gorgeous for words.

This would be the aisle.. can you just imagine?? Stunning.

Ceiling detail. Just fabulous.

And this... This is the Gulf Green.

If I could close my eyes and imagine where I would get married.. it would be here. It makes me heart flutter just a bit. Right beyond the beautiful pillars is the gulf. I was devastated to learn that they will doing construction in this area next year.

The low-down on Alys:
Alys Beach is stunning, but unfortunately it is much more a fantasy than a reality. Because with it's beauty comes a hefty price tag. You will run into a $10,000 venue fee and a $5,000 clean up fee to rent just the Caliza Pool! YIKES. The other drawback is that aside from the beautiful pool and homes, there isn't too much else at Alys Beach. It is more of an oasis for those fortunate enough to vacation here. So I say, fantasy vacation-YES, wedding-NO.

Venue Two: Rosemary Beach

2010-06-17T14:26:00.009-04:00

The next stop on our venue journey took us to the beautiful Rosemary Beach.

The West Green with a glimpse of downtown Rosemary.

The West Green.

Beach Access area with Bath houses.

Town Hall - LOVE this.

Inside of the Town Hall.

The little green next to the Town Hall.

Entrance to the Barbados Pool.

The Coquina Pool.

The low-down on Rosemary Beach:
Rosemary is gorgeous. Let's just cut to the chase. Everywhere you look families are laughing, riding bikes and just loving life. You can't help but feel like you have magically appeared in an Italian beach town once you step foot in Rosemary. From the architecture to the town square areas, this little beach haven will steal your heart. The West & East (not pictured) Greens are perfect for an outdoor tented wedding. And I LOVE the Town Hall. It is stunning inside and out and can hold around 250 people. Their a 4 pools, 2 of which are pictured. Each one is unique and all can serve as wonderful rehearsal dinner areas. The downfall to Rosemary is the cost and the hoops you must jump through to have your wedding there. Requirements include 3 house rentals for 4 days each, security guards, and following the alternating green policy. What? That's what I said. Chances are there will be another wedding happening at the same time as yours on a different part of the property. For vacations, Rosemary can make you feel like a very special guest, but when it comes to weddings, you feel more like a number.

Venue One: Carillon Beach

2010-06-14T15:26:00.010-04:00

We will start with the original, the first venue that stole my heart: Carillon Beach.

The chapel. How you speak to me. If only you held more than 90 people.

The garden surrounding the chapel. The trees are strung with lights. Mmmmm I love you.

The Village Green, a popular reception area.

Market Street! The strung lights are fabulous at night.

Market Street from the other direction with the chapel in the background. Pretty. Pretty.

The low-down on Carillon:
Quaint beach town feel with gorgeous homes and a little downtown area. Carillon's beachfront and walkways to the beach are the prettiest along the Emerald Coast in my opinion. They have an in-house wedding coordinator, Carillon Weddings by Victoria, which is run by Victoria Volpone and her assistant Avis. They are WONDERFUL. (And Avis is a UGA graduate. GO DAWGS!) Coordination fees are included in the venue fees, which is rare and a wonderful service. They require that you use vendors from their preferred vendor list, but the vendors they have selected are all top notch. Though we love all of the selected vendors, there is not much wiggle room to minimize costs by using friends or other connections.

The venue dilemma

2010-06-11T18:37:00.002-04:00

And we're back!! My Sailor is home and life is good. Stressful, but good. The beach was wonderful, but it made choosing the venue even tougher. Each place we visited was more beautiful than the next! And just to make things more interesting, as soon as we hit Front Beach Rd. I got an email from Carillon. Their wedding program is back on! Since we had already made the trek, we went ahead and explored some other options. In the next few posts, I will share pictures and a little info from each place we visited. Hope you enjoy!

P.S. We have already chosen the venue! I will reveal it at the end of this little posting series. Feel free to give us some feedback and try to guess which one we chose. :)

My ship has come in!

2010-06-03T19:05:00.003-04:00

At 5:30 tomorrow morning, I will be reunited with my love! I cannot begin to say how excited and overwhelmed with emotion I am. He has been gone since mid April and with him he took my heart. I will be so glad to have it back tomorrow! Please forgive my lack of posts in the next couple days. We will be taking some much needed time together. We will also be going down to the beach to scout a new location for our wedding. I will post pictures of our options next week. Love you all!

Pottery Barn Nautical Necessities

2010-06-02T17:09:00.011-04:00

Pottery Barn stole my heart with all of their new nautical goodies. I just love them all!

Top to bottom: Marine Flags; Ship in a Bottle Pace Card Holder; Distressed Wood Buoys; Nautical Lanterns; Wire Ship; Oversized Oyster Shell Serving Bowl; Seaweed Serving Stand

Thanks for the tip on the nautical flags Katie!

Romona Keveza Dress

2010-06-01T11:46:00.004-04:00

Okay, so I know that I have completely sworn off looking at dresses until after my Sailor and I finish p90x, but I saw this Romona Keveza dress via the Southern Weddings Magazine blog and I just can't resist. Oh. My. Lanta. I'm in love.

Photography: Incontrast Images

Our thornbush has roses

2010-05-28T15:42:00.006-04:00

Okay, so apparently just booking a date doesn't ensure that the venue will even be hosting weddings during the time your wedding is booked. I received an email yesterday from our wedding venue informing me that not only is our wedding planner taking her business elsewhere, but that the property doesn't know if they will even have a wedding program next year. Apparently, the homeowners aren't too big on all the weddings. I have no hard feelings toward the wedding planner as she has no say-so in the matter, but the homeowners all need to have a come to Jesus moment or I might just give it to them myself.

After my brief emotional breakdown, I realized something. Instead of just getting to plan my dream wedding once, I get to plan it twice -- without even having to find a new groom!! This seemingly disastrous situation may not be so bad after all. Or how my Sailor so endearingly puts it -- our thornbush has roses. Because my first vision was completely intertwined with the venue, I'm starting fresh. Back to the drawing boards. Don't worry, it's still going to be nautical. Duh. And everything I posted before, I still love! BUT now I have to formulate a new vision with a new venue. Speaking of venues -- anyone have any suggestions??

Oh, and happy Memorial Day weekend everyone!

Madison Fab Finds

2010-05-26T13:11:00.020-04:00

Mommy-daughter day in Madison was a complete success! We sifted through 75 vendors at the Antique and Interiors Market, went into every appealing shop in the downtown area, and realized just how alike we really are. We were exhausted, but we dominated that town. We found some fab stuff along the way. Here's to Madison, G-A!

Finds from the Antique & Interiors Market included...

A nifty covered chandelier

This rustic nautical-themed wall sconce -- don't be fooled, it's electric.. boogie woogie woog...

LOVE this hanging capiz shell chandelier

Okay.. so I like romantic lighting and chandeliers. BUT the best find of the day has to be these REALLY creepy alligator purses!! Even though my mom looks super cute holding them, yikes. Just yikes.

Creepy alligator purses. Creepy.

Next stop was a cute little store in downtown Madison called Laughing Moon. Endless amounts of merch to go through, but we sure enjoyed ourselves -- primarily because of this sassy hand towel..

Other great finds included..

This pretty, pretty sailboat that has wedding inspiration written all over it

And..

This sign that just makes me smile and think of my old crab :)

Mommy-Daughter Day in Madison, G-A

2010-05-25T09:19:00.007-04:00

Today is a very special day. My mommy came to visit me! I just love my mom. Seriously, she is my hero. I took the day off from work and we are heading to the beautiful, historic Madison, Georgia to shop for antiques! I'll post some of our fab finds later.

The Fitzpatrick House in the National Register Historic District

Photo credit: Madison CVB

The Madison County Courthouse in beautiful downtown Madison

Photo credit: Madison CVB

FUN FACT: I will be interning with the Madison CVB this fall! Love me some Madison.

Thomas Paul Love

2010-05-24T16:14:00.006-04:00

Thanks to Joanna Goddard, I'm crushing on all things Thomas Paul today. Pretty, pretty, pretty.

Daily Inspiration - Love on a boat

2010-05-21T16:27:00.005-04:00

For the weekend, I am leaving you with a beautiful photo from the Eliza Magazine blog. It has a nautical theme, of course, but it is quite modest. There is something so intriguing to me about how casual yet stunning this photo is. Happy weekend all!

Photographer: Alpha Smoot

we love typography.

2010-05-20T12:02:00.004-04:00

We love typography is quickly becoming one of my favorite Websites for wedding inspiration. Beautiful words in beautiful fonts inspire me. I'm crushing big time on this little invite from orangebeautiful's Etsy shop.

And let's just talk about how obsessed I am with these programs and invites. Wouldn't you know they are from the wedding of my favorite blogger, Joanna Goddard. Gosh, she's great.

Lantern Love

2010-05-19T16:32:00.006-04:00

I stumbled across these beauties today at an antique market. Potential purchase tomorrow -- regardless I will have these at my reception. LANTERN. LOVE.

I'm imagining something like this. Romantic? Mmmm hmmm.

I spotted this gem and many other beautiful scenes at Designs by Hemingway.

Daily Inspiration - Boat Quote

2010-05-19T10:02:00.005-04:00

I'm loving this poster created using vintage nautical charts by Beautiful Angle. (Check out all of the other super interesting prints created from this guerrilla arts poster project in Tacoma, Washington!)

My sweet Sailor's contribution

2010-05-18T14:41:00.014-04:00

"Morgan and David"

Just can't get enough of this man. His mock up of our names spelled out in nautical signaling flags. You'll have to wait until the wedding to see where this will appear!

Pattern Persuasion

2010-05-18T00:45:00.004-04:00

Ok, so the pattern obsession has gone to the next level. I was so inspired by the IOMOI designs that I completely changed my blog header. I started toying around with Photoshop tonight and eventually came up with this. (I am still very fond of the old header so I just moved it to the bottom of the page.) Now that I am starting to really materialize my vision for the wedding, this seems much more fitting. I can actually see it in my head now. I'm SO excited! Only 354 more days!

Pattern Love

2010-05-17T19:48:00.007-04:00

I am obsessed with these designs from IOMOI. Like including them in my wedding obsessed.

This design is actually from one of their canvas totes. I must have this ASAP.