Wedding Styling .... The Colour Purple!

I'm quite excited about today's styling ideas I'm sharing with you. I have something to admit ... growing up I hated the colour purple! It was my sister's favourite colour .. she was obsessed with the colour, everything she owned had to be purple ... and so, of course I hated it!
I have, however, had a change of heart. Since styling my lovely sister's wedding and making her stationery I have become slightly obsessed myelf with the colour! Its not something I would ever really wear a lot of clothing wise but I now adore it in interiors and especially weddings!
Here's an example of some bespoke stationery I did using purple last year ....

For more of our stationery vist http://www.knotsandkisses.co.uk/

The great thing about purple is it comes in so many different shades and variations, which can be used to style your wedding in so many different ways.

I personally love deep purples and plums, which can go really well with deep pink colours to create a vibrant glamourous effect. These colours work brilliantly with other deep jewel colours, vintage jewellery and look stunning as well with peacock feathers. Here's a few styling ideas using these deep purple colours.

central image by http://www.fairynuff-flowers.co.uk/ ; left and right images by http://www.flowerstudio.im/

 

left image make up by http://www.ivyclara.co.uk/ ; central image http://www.etsy.com/ ; right image courtesy of shutterstock

left and right images courtesy of Firefly Weddings http://www.fireflyeventmanagement.com/ ; cake http://www.cottonandcrumbs.co.uk/

Hope thats given you a few ideas! If you want to discuss a gorgeous bespoke purple stationery design drop us an email at info@knotsandkisses.co.uk or give me a ring on 07976625201.

Look out for a further blog post on Wednesday when I'll be styling with the lighter shades of purple .. lavender and heather!

Introducing The New Bridal Collection From Julieann Beads!

I'm really honoured today on the Supplier Spotlight to be the first to introduce the new range of bridal accessories from Julieann Bead's Allure range. The delicate pearl designs would work perfectly with a vintage style wedding .. I can so imagine the pendant necklace with a beautiful floaty wedding dress and lots of blush pink roses! The whole range would also go really well with our Country Garden Stationery range with its pearl details! ( You can see the Country Garden Range on our website http://www.knotsandkisses.co.uk/ )

Here's a few more details about the new range ....
You can find more information and products on their website http://www.julieannbeads.co.uk/

The Julieann Beads best selling Allure bridal jewellery collection has some stunning new additions. Officially to be launched on Friday 4th March 2011 at the NEC, National Wedding Show. Go and see them on stand J21 or visit their website www.julieannbeads.co.uk.


Following the dazzling success of the Allure Purely Pendant necklace designs launched at the Autumn NEC National Wedding Show, Julieann Beads are thrilled to introduce new bridal jewellery and wedding hair accessory designs. These include pretty combs, headbands, bracelets, necklaces, earrings and pins.

Every single design in the Julieann Beads Allure bridal collection is lovingly hand created from luxurious ivory freshwater pearls, sparkling Swarovski diamante and clear crystals.

Beautiful and distinctive, the Julieann Beads Allure bridal collection is perfect for brides seeking vintage inspired wedding jewellery and hair accessories. Easy to wear and a pleasure to own, their jewellery designs become treasured keepsakes that will be worn long after the wedding.

Established in 2005, Julieann Beads work closely with their brides ensuring that they offer fantastic value for money designs in the latest styles with excellent customer service. Many of their brides return to purchase bridesmaid jewellery and jewellery for the mothers and other key people in the wedding party.
Owner and designer Julieann Bird says “vintage inspired wedding jewellery such as our Allure collection continues to be one of our best selling ranges; brides are still looking for affordable bridal jewellery designs with a huge nostalgic theme”.

My Wedding Stationery Inspirations

I thought today I'd discuss the my inspirations behind the wedding stationery I create.
Although I'm not a massive fan of head to toe 'themed' weddings, I often find brides & grooms find it difficult to come up with a thread that will tie their wedding together. I personally think if your stuck for ideas finding a stationery design you love is a great starting point, so hopefully this post might help!

I tend to be quite eclectic when it comes to inspiration. I read a lot of fashion and interiors magazines and often find trends from both areas filter into the wedding industry quite quickly. I studied fashion illustration at University so am always looking for illustration work to inspire me as well. These images below helped to start the ideas process, for example, for the latest range English Eccentrics.

But mainly I have a passion for jewellery, vintage clothes, haberdashery and fabrics and like to work these into the stationery I create. I'm always shopping for ribbons and fabric to inspire me ... or even pieces of vintage china. The blue style of the Vintage Cameo range was inspired by my love of wedgewood jasper ware and I combined that with victorian inspired pearls and lace.

I also draw inspiration from different eras, the new English Eccentrics range was based a lot on Victoriana, and I love the fifties and seventies as well. I think the trick with borrowing from different eras is not to copy the look wholesale but to take the spirit of the look and make it your own.

If you would like my help coming up with a beautiful design or thread for your wedding stationery why not drop me an email at info@knotsandkisses.co.uk . To see our whole range of wedding stationery please visit the website http://www.knotsandkisses.co.uk/

Gorgeous Powder Blue & Pearls Wedding Styling !

Today's styling feature incorporates one of my favourite colour combinations .. a really elegant powder blue and cream pearls, which I've featured in my Vintage Cameo range below. It's a great option for those that want a glamorous vintage wedding without going for traditional dark colours.

The range is also available in a black and cream colourway on the website www.knotsandkisses.co.uk.

This gorgeous combination of cream and blue can be used in quite a classic modern way .. but I love it with vintage styling, such as 1950's style dresses and birdcage veils, lace trims and boleros and beautiful pearl jewellery. Tables look great laid with fresh blue linen, cream napkins and old vintage glassware ... which can also be used for a fabulous sweet buffet. You can also echo the stationery with beautiful Wedgwood blue cameo necklaces.



credits

pearl bracelet : www.sljewelleryandaccessories.co.uk

floral hair corsage : www.weddingandbaby.co.uk

cake from maisie fantasie ; shoes from momentville.com ; brides dress from i-weddingdresses.com

cameo necklace from craftjuice.com ; bridesmaid dress from coast ; table setting and sweet buffet from bride.com

Spotlight on Beady Eyes Design Bridal Jewellery

On today's supplier spotlight I'd like to share with you the new 'Country Garden' range from Beady Eyes Designs. When Jane contacted me about this I couldn't resist but have a look, as its the same name as one of our stationery ranges .. the Country Garden range below!

The Beady Eyes Country Garden range of Jewellery and Hairpieces has that same romantic look with pearl details and would work perfectly for those having a lovely country style wedding with lots of pale roses and wild flowers. Here's how Jane from Beady Eyes describes the range ....

"The new collection from Beady Eyes Designs features natural components: freshwater pearls, rock crystals and pure silk petals in organic designs to create a cottage garden feel.

This range of wedding hair accessories includes a bridal headband and for bridesmaids a side comb or hair pin to coordinate their style with yours.
“We love the way these pearls, rock crystals and petals sit together in an informal design aiming for grace and charm rather than a structured look.”


For further details on Beady Eyes Country Garden range you can contact them via their website at http://www.beadyeyesdesigns.co.uk/

Wedding Venue Feature - Tregenna Castle

Today is Wedding Venue day and we're heading to the other end of the country this week and featuring the stunning Tregenna Castle, which overlooks St Ives!

The view that awaits you once you’ve driven through the gates at Tregenna Castle is nothing short of spectacular. You emerge from the short tree lined drive to find yourself high above the world famous fishing village of St Ives with a breathtaking panoramic view over the whole of the St Ives Bay and Godrevy Lighthouse!
Tregenna Castle (in Cornish meaning the dwelling at the mouth or entrance) takes its name from the hill on which it stands. Originally built in 1774 as a 12 bedroom house Tregennatoday is an impressive 3* Hotel with 81 bedrooms and over 60 self catering apartments, cottages and impressive Japanese Pole Lodges all set in a beautiful 72 acre walled estate overlooking the world famous fishing village of St Ives. The estate has an extensive choice of sports and leisure facilities. A challenging 18 hole Presidents Golf Course surrounding the hotel, 2 heated swimming pools, large gym, tennis, badminton, squash, table tennis, outdoor kids play area, croquet, sauna, spa bath and steam room. Castle Beauty and Hair by Sara Veal is also there to pamper you.

The Hotel is licensed for Civil Ceremonies throughout the year. With 5 rooms to choose from they can hold Weddings for 2 to 160 people and, from May to September, you could even get married outside under their Pavilion overlooking the Atlantic Ocean! There is an experienced team on hand to take care of your special day from the initial show round through to the big day itself.

While you’re staying there’s also plenty to do only a short walk from the Hotel. There’s Porthmeor Beach if surfing’s your thing. There’s the beautiful Porthminster, Porthgwidden and Carbis Bay beaches close too for a more relaxing time! Then there’s St Ives itself with it’s winding streets and hidden alley ways to explore where you’ll find resident artists, galleries, Tate St Ives, The Hepworth Museum, The Leach Pottery and a wide variety of interesting shops, cafes and restaurants around every corner.

To contact Tregenna Castle about your wedding :
Tel: +44 (0) 1736 795254 (Option 2)

http://www.tregenna-castle.co.uk/

Styling Ideas To Match Our Lime & Pink Damask Wedding Stationery

I thought as I didn't do the usual styling post on Monday I'd put together some styling ideas today for you.

I've blogged before about our Damask range of stationery, but concentrated on the Red & Teal collection.

Today I'd like to introduce you to the other colourway in the range which is Cerise & Lime.



The hot tropical colours of this range work fantastically for a summer wedding, either with lots of fifties style florals and greenery for an English feel ...or with hot pinks and limes for a more tropical beach feel.

The damask print on the background of the invitation could even be used to match a Moroccan themed wedding! Here are a few styling ideas below to go with this range. I especially love the splash of colour a pair of bright pink satin shoes would bring to a traditional bridal outfit!

credits etsy.com / notonthehighstreet.com / weddingcometrue.com / kugadesigns

I really didn't know whether to write a post today or not, so I've decided instead to do something a little different....

For most people Valentines Day is a day of celebration, celebrating those we really love and are closest to us in our lives... and so it should be!
Unfortunately it can for others, including myself, be a day which brings back the sadness of those we have lost.
Six years ago today we lost my amazing Dad, who was one of my best friends, to the horrible disease Leukaemia. So today, instead of ignoring this and doing a blog post full of hearts and red valentines styling ideas .. which was my plan originally... I'd like to ask my readers to remember the loved ones of others and perhaps think of making a donation to Leukaemia Research.
Around 7000 adults are diagnosed with the disease in the UK alone every year. Research into new drugs is really important as many adults become resistant or are intolerant to standard methods of chemotherapy.
My Dad was diagnosed just after Christmas and we had unfortunately lost him by February. I can personally vouch for the fact that new drugs really do need to be looked into.
You can find out lots more information about how you can donate and the various ways you can help on the website of the Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research Organisation http://www.beatbloodcancers.org/give

I'm sorry if this is a bit of a downer on what is such a great day for most, but if I can persuade one person to make a donation this post will have been worthwhile.

On a cheerier note, I really hope everyone has a great Valentines Day, full of flowers and chocolates and perhaps even the odd proposal!

Wedding Supplier Spotlight!

Today I'm delighted to introduce to you on our regular Supplier Spotlight the fantastic work from Beckwith Events! They believe that all weddings are so different ... and will help you create the right look for your wedding.

As well as chair covers and other decor they also provide really beautiful candelabra to decorate your venue!

Below Maria from Beckwith Events describes a little bit more about what they can offer you for your wedding ....
"We cater for all types of events, no matter how big or small. Whether you want a Moulin Rouge themed party, chocolate fountain, limousine, helicopter hire, acrobats or spectacular fireworks display we will endeavour to achieve your desired objective with seamless perfection.

We do all the running around and will eliminate the stress, hidden costs, research, design, planning, negotiation and coordination allowing you the opportunity to be a guest at your own event.
Our area of expertise is in our ability to transform your venue into something truly spectacular. As we will predominantly use our own stock, this will ensure you get the best possible value for your money.

Call us to arrange your free initial consultation on 0191 513 0612."

For more information on Beckwith Events and where they work visit their website on www.beckwithevents.co.uk

Wedding Venue... the stunning Loch Lomond !

Today I'm continuing on with our new Wedding Venue Feature. For something a little bit different we're heading up to Scotland for not so much of a venue as a beautiful area to get married ... Loch Lomond.

The lovely people at http://www.yourweddingatlochlomond.co.uk/ have been kind enough to give us the inside information, below, on having a wedding in this stunning location and can provide all the help you need to organise your big day!

"Your wedding day should be the most romantic and most important day of your life. If you are looking for somewhere to get married with the ‘wow’ factor, then why not consider a venue on the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond? A strikingly beautiful area in central Scotland, Loch Lomond is famed all over the world and throughout history for its stunning landscapes and romantic ambience; an ideal location for weddings of all shapes, sizes and styles.

www.ciaphotography.co.uk

Loch Lomond is one of Scotland and the UK’s most romantic venues for a wedding. You could get married in a hotel, a castle and you could even get married in the middle of Loch Lomond, whether it is on a boat or one of the Islands.


Loch Lomond is also the perfect location for a romantic break, especially if you plan to propose. Whatever your romantic celebration, Loch Lomond will make it a celebration never to be forgotten.

www.ciaphotography.co.uk

If you decide that Loch Lomond is the location for your wedding, then please take a moment to look at our wide variety of professional suppliers. We take great pride in offering you all the information you need to achieve the wedding of your dreams. Everything can be provided from a romantic setting, top quality food and top class entertainment all provided with an impeccable service.


Loch Lomond in Scotland will add its own special magic to your wedding day!

http://www.ciaphotography.co.uk/

 http://www.greatscotphotography.co.uk/

 

If you are interested in Loch Lomond as a unique wedding venue, then have a look at our special wedding directory for that area. Drop us an email with any questions you may have as we would be more than happy to assist!"

www.yourweddingatlochlomond.co.uk

info@yourweddingatlochlomond.co.uk

A Sneak Peek At Our New Wedding Stationery Range!

I've been working on my new range of wedding stationery called Wonderland for a while now, so I thought it was about time I gave you all a sneak peek!
It will hopefully be launching at the end of this month ... so keep watching for all the launch excitement!

Styling To Match Our Country Garden Wedding Stationery!

Another new week and another chance to share styling ideas with you for our wedding stationery ranges. Today its the Country Garden range.

The Country Garden range evokes images of a glamourous garden party, with details of pearls and beautiful full blush roses. The great thing with this range is it works as well with a country manor house wedding as it does with a beautiful marquee or rustic barn hung with chandeliers. For full details of the range please visit our website http://www.knotsandkisses.co.uk/

The styling for this range is all about crisp white table linen, beautiful china and crystal glassware, but matched with country style floral arrangements and vintage dresses. Also the pearl details on the stationery look great matched in with your jewellery or in your hair. Dress your tables with candelabra or jugs of fresh flowers.



flowers by http://www.youngblooms.co.uk/ ; headband and jewellery from http://www.chezbec.com/

wedding styling from http://www.sweetdaysandroses.co.uk/ ; cake by www.sugarrosecakecompany.co.uk

Our Handpainted Wedding Table Plans!

Today I wanted to shine the spotlight on some of the work we do here at Knots & Kisses and show you some of the handpainted table plans we can provide for customers to match their wedding stationery.
Here are a few of the examples of table plans I've handpainted for clients in the past. We also offer a bespoke service so if you want something different please let us know!
For more details see our website www.knotsandkisses.co.uk or email me info@knotsandkisses.co.uk

Our First Wedding Venue Feature!

Today I'm really excited to launch a new regular feature on the blog which will showcase some really stunning wedding venues in the UK.
I hope to bring you venues that have that little something different, that little something vintage and that little something special ....  a bit like our stationery!

For this first feature I'm going back to my roots a little bit and featuring a venue in Birmingham.
It might not be your first thought for a wedding venue but today I'm featuring weddings at the University of Birmingham.
The University offers an extensive range of wedding venues and exclusive locations for those who appreciate elegant surroundings. From the magnificent Great Hall with its marble foyer and stained glass windows, to the more contemporary Hub, to the Edwardian-style residence and beautifully landscaped grounds and gardens of Hornton Grange that are ideal for marquee events and wedding receptions.

Their versatile facilities offer catering options from the smaller wedding breakfast to large sit-down meals for up to 480 guests as well as an approved premises for civil marriages and civil partnerships.

They can coordinate catering menus and flowers for all occasions (to suit all tastes and budgets) for a service that gives your guests a memorable experience

Hornton Grange, in the university grounds, is an Edwardian style residence which stands in attractive and peaceful gardens and retains a wealth of features, from its impressive oak-panelled reception and bar to its ornate ceilings, mouldings and archways. All have been tastefully restored to enhance every feature.

The adjoining conservatory has the capacity to seat 88 guests for a wedding breakfast and up to 150 guests for the evening buffet, and our terrace bar is the ideal place for your guests to relax and enjoy themselves.

For more information or advice on size, suitability and all other aspects of your event call Liz Carlin on +44 121 415 8400 or email weddings@contacts.bham.ac.uk
You can also see all the information on the venue on their website http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/partners/conferences/venues/thegreathall.aspx