The Preppy Wedding

Join me at The Preppy Baby

2009-06-28T15:01:00.001-04:00

I'm taking a break from wedding blogging these days. If you want to read up on my adventures in motherhood, join me at The Preppy Baby!

Spring Favorites

2009-03-25T18:52:00.009-04:00

Hey guys -

Sorry I disappeared for a while there, I blame it on working hard and having only 8 weeks left on my pregnancy.

Anywho, I haven't done a favorites post in a while, so here are some of my wedding favorites for spring 2009:

The new William Arthur collection at Wedding Paper Divas. There are letterpress and thermography options. I am loving the simplicity of the Winged Monogram design.

The Emily Elizabeth Jewelry Wishbone necklace. Love, love, love it for a bridesmaid gift. Couple it with a sweet note about future wishes for your friendship.

You guys know my love of Hanky Panky. Well how about a hanky panky something blue garter set? Divine!

Coren Moore's Lily style dress. I would love this even more in seersucker!

Oh and brides to be, you gotta check out ruelala on March 30. There is going to be a Nicole Miller bridal boutique and judging from their deals in the last few days, you better check it out.

Bella Figura Winner

2009-02-18T16:08:00.003-05:00

Hey guys, just wanted to pop in and let Sara know she is the WINNER!

Here's her comment:

I am still in need of invitations for my June wedding - we have had a few last minute "surprises" that have kept us from moving forward with purchasing them. Not to mention the fiance and I can't seem to agree on a design we both love - he likes plain, I want to make a statement. However, two designs we both agree on are the Deveril and the Odessa from Bella Figura. Both of these invitatations are simple to suit him, yet have an elegant flair that gives it the statement I need. We are getting married in a historic building and I love that both of these designs tie into the theme of the building and our wedding - timeless, elegant, classy, and yet unfussy. We don't need a lot of decorations at the church and neither do either of these invitations. They are perfect as is! The letterpress is fancier than we thought we could afford for the wedding, so the extra money would allows us to have invitations that perfectly fit the style of the wedding.

Sara - just e-mail me with you info (preppywedding@hotmail.com). For all you other gals, fear not, I have another great give-a-way brewing.

Oh and don't forget to check out Bella Figura's sister site Smock Paper for some amazing personal stationary options!

Bella Figura Contest - The Preppiest Letterpress Around

2009-02-11T19:45:00.010-05:00

Ok guys, I told you I would be back this week and here I am!

I have the coolest give-away to talk about today. I know you all have heard me sing the praises of the awesome letterpress company Bella Figura, well they want to introduce themselves to all you preppy brides-to-be out there. And they are doing it with a 200 dollar gift certificate to one special preppy reader.

To qualify, all you have to do is go to their website and leave a comment about what you would purchase with your 200 dollar gift certificate. The folks over at Bella Figura are going to pick the winner, so make sure to tell us how you are going to tie their oh so beautiful product into your own wedding. I am going to close the contest next Wednesday, February 18.

And in case you didn't know, Bella Figura has over 40 eco friendly designs and six amazing letterpress designers. They have an invitation to fit the feel and design of any wedding. They are also one of the most environmental letterpress shops in the country - they're wind powered; they donate 1% of sales to environmental causes through 1% for the Planet - so you can feel good about purchasing a beautiful product from an all American vendor that is concerned with giving back.

Now, if I were entering this contest today, here are my favorites (with a little wedding imagination mixed in):

The Palais. I see a sweet little bouquet, a vintage cake topper, an outdoor reception by the sea, and the perfect something blue.

This is the new calligraphy design. I see an antique rolls royce, this dress, white tie sit-down dinner and a saber champagne welcome to the reception.

The Fieno. I see a sunny day, a clapboard church with a red door, a converted barn reception and bridesmaids in yellow. Oh and a pie dessert buffet in lieu of the wedding cake.

And just because, here is my favorite Bella Figura pick these days. I only wish I could enter the contest!

Real Simple Weddings 2009

2009-02-05T12:43:00.002-05:00

I was lucky enough to get a copy of the new Real Simple Weddings last week sent from their publisher in NYC. And, I gotta say, where were you Real Simple Weddings when I was planning my wedding?

You brides-to-be need to go out there and get this book (it's way more like a book than a magazine). There are inspiring pictures of real weddings and real wedding details, lots of helpful planning information and its all written in that down-to-earth real simple style that makes me such a fan of their magazine. You'll definitely be inspired and there's still a lot of practical information and advice to help through all stages of planning.

You can pick it up at Barnes & Noble or even Crate & Barrel on your way to register.

And even better girls - there is website.

Check in early next week, I have a VERY cool stationary giveaway coming up. Two words, Bella Figura.

Erin Gallagher

2009-01-19T18:24:00.002-05:00

Have you guys checked out Erin Gallagher jewelry? Her stuff is beautiful.

She makes the perfect bridesmaid gift or something to work with your wedding dress. What I love, love, love is the the everything is customizable. You can pick your gems, adjust the length of the necklaces, the metal of the chains, anything.

And if you enter "gems" at checkout, you'll get 40% off your order until January 25! Thank you Erin.

In case you're wondering, here are my favs:

The Elsa Necklace
The Isabella Bracelet
The Violet Necklace
The Eleanor Earring

Go buy yours now - remember the discount ends on January 25!

Soulmates

2008-12-19T11:43:00.003-05:00

Ok. All you brides-to-be out there. Meet Soulmates. Ingenious ideas or hideous heel appendage? Would you outdoor brides wear these? Or hand them out to guests?

Anyone wish they trademarked these things?

Update on Rue la la

2008-12-17T14:39:00.005-05:00

Here's an update on Rue la la girls. From now until December 31, if you do the following, they are going to give you a 10 dollar credit to use for their sample sales. Do I need to mention that the John Hardy boutique is up and running this morning AND shoshanna starts tomorrow? And by doing this, you automatically are invited to join the fun, so I am going to stop manually adding those of you who commented on the last post.

Here's what you do:

1. Go to www.ruelala.com/gift
2. Enter my e-mail: preppywedding@hotmail.com

And WOWSA. You get a 10 dollar credit.

Thanks to our friends at rue la la.

Great Bridesmaid or Christmas Gifts

2008-12-12T09:24:00.008-05:00

UPDATE:
The Vera Bradley code is no longer working. I hope lots of you got some deals before they pulled the plug. As for rue la la, let me know if you're interested and I will invite you!

Don't know if you gals are looking for cute bridesmaid or Christmas gifts this year, but Vera Bradley has an awesome sale going on right now.

Cosmetic bags for 12 dollars (and an extra 50 percent off)
Belts for 5 dollars (and an extra 50 percent off)
Duffels and purses for as low as 15 dollars (and an extra 50 percent off)

Go here now to order friends!

Here's the details on the free shipping and extra 50 percent off:
Additional 50% off clearance with code VBMILITARY and free shipping on orders of $100 or more with FreeShipDec (the free shipping code expires today).

Also, are you girls members of Ruelala? It's a members only site that is like one big sample sale. Today is the Kate Spade sale and the next sales will be David Yurman and Shoshanna. Some awesome deals there too. If you are interested in being a member, just leave your e-mail in the comments section and I will send you an invite!

2008-11-18T21:14:00.003-05:00

Guess whose Christmas cards are done? All for $5.50, shipped. Times are tough and this preppy gal is adapting. Head to snapfish to order yours today!

Great Christmas Card Deal

2008-11-17T10:54:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to share this fantastic deal I found online last night. If you order 20 of the 4x8 photo cards from snapfish and enter the code CARD08 at checkout, the cards are only 1 penny each, a total of 20 cents plus a few dollars for shipping and handling.

While these cards aren't as cute as some of my other favorites, this is a great deal. I think the code expires on 11/23, so get them while you can!

Here are a few of my favorite designs -

The Preppy Empire Expands

2008-11-13T17:09:00.012-05:00

First, I want to thank so many of you for your concern these last few weeks. I have been a bad blogger lately and it shows. No posts, no fun quips from yours truly, no preppy wedding finds, not even a peep about politics.

Well, I am hoping all you readers out there in blogland will blame this on my inability to do anything other than spontaneously gag, sleep and cry these last few months.

And if you really need someONE to blame....

Try the little preppy baby that Mr. Preppy Wedding and I will be having in May. That's right - we're pregnant.

It's been three months, but I am still trying to wrap my head around the whole having a baby thing. I'm so excited, but I am also nervous and am just glad that as I enter my second trimester, the whole day sickness phenomenon is starting to wane.

So, here's the deal. I am still going to post on this site. I'm going to tailor my posts specifically to wedding related stuff. And if you want to hear more about all things preppy baby, check out my new site.

It feels good to finally fess up to you guys about my absence. Don't give up on me though, I've still got lots of preppy inspiration to share.

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T11:06:00.004-04:00

Hi Everyone ... I'm Fine

2008-10-21T16:31:00.002-04:00

Hey everybody -

Thanks for all the well wishes gals (and guys). I am so sorry for my absence these last few weeks. Things just got pretty crazy and overwhelming, so I needed to try and take a blog breather.

And not to worry, I have not been hiding under a rock this last month, instead, I have:

- Seeing Bailey perform as Elle Woods in one of her last performances of Legally Blonde on Broadway. LOVE. THIS. SHOW. I was singing Oh My God, Oh My God You Guys the entire time I was in NYC.

- Hung out with my in-laws for a week in Duck. We stayed in an awesome neighborhood AND I got to stop here for a fro-yo flurry on the way there and on the way home.

- Found the perfect fall dress. In leopard print. For 20 dollars. Warning for you gals who wear larger than an A cup, this dress makes your girls look huge!

- Am almost done planning my 10 year high school reunion. We're having a party on Saturday here and a picnic in our hometown that's kid friendly on Sunday. Anyone want to drive over to my house to help me stuff 30 grab bags for the kids on Sunday.

I promise to bring you some wedding/fall/preppy inspiration in the coming days, I just wanted everyone to know I was ok.

Oh and one more thing, I need help lovely readers. As you know the preppy pooches, Dempsey and LuLu always make a costume statement on Halloween. I am totally stumped this year. I haven't seen anything cute at my normal go-to places (target and old navy). Suggestions?

Preppy Pop Art Paintings

2008-09-24T13:42:00.004-04:00

Kristine over at Figment studios sent me these really cool pop art inspired wedding portraits. I totally dig them. Get your own here.

Preppy Bride Organization

2008-09-15T17:21:00.002-04:00

Calling all money is no object preppy brides. You NEED these monogrammed file folders to hold your important wedding planning papers (ok, well they can hold the contact information for your celebrity wedding planner). And, if stripes aren't your thing, try toile.

Also, do not forget your pink retro phone for taking important calls from said planner. You know cell phones can be rather irritating to the wrists.

Preppy Wedding Inspiration

2008-09-11T16:32:00.003-04:00

So, Patricia Lyons just sent me a link to the fantastic Charlottesville wedding I attended in August. It was just the inspiration kick in the butt I needed. Easton Events served as wedding planner. So, so gorgeous. I think this one belongs on the Southern Weddings Blog. Don't y'all agree?

Check it out here:
http://www.patricialyonsphotography.com/KellyandGraham

Fall Fun

2008-09-08T15:36:00.002-04:00

Some things I am LOVING about September:

1. One Tree Hill on Monday nights. You know it's not high school anymore!
2. Doing some advanced planning and invitation shopping for the first annual Halloween Party at chez Preppy Wedding.
3. Having an excuse to make chili.
4. CNN stalking. See that B.A. from UVA in American Politics makes it impossible to turn off the election coverage.

Things I am NOT LOVING about September:
1. Getting on the highway this morning and realizing I had a flat tire.
2. Planning for the high school reunion, why is it that you can never make EVERYONE happy?
3. Being totally uninspired wedding wise. I need to get back on my game.

Back from the Beach

2008-09-07T00:23:00.002-04:00

As you'll see below via wordle, we created lots more memories during Beach Week 2008. Hope everyone had a good week without me.

Vacation

2008-08-29T16:59:00.004-04:00

Hmmm. Did I tell you I was going on vacation? Because I am. For one blissful week. I'm going to shop, eat, read, and drink. Be back in a week!

Things I Love: Almost Fall Edition

2008-08-28T14:18:00.006-04:00

I'm back friends. And as the days get a little shorter and the temperatures a little cooler, I find myself looking squarely into my very favorite season. I love everything about fall: football games, a hot pink J.Crew Jackie cardigan and my favorite jeans, apple cider, the kids Halloween costumes at OldNavy, the perfect pair of brown boots, the smell of a new, perfect pink eraser (even adults should be able to buy new school supplies).

So, I thought I would put together my list of almost fall favorites. These things will help me transition into the nights of extra blankets and pumpkin pie.

A Note From Cards

O.K. I know I am not a teacher, but I can pretend with these cute notecards.

Bananna Republic Silk Wrap Dress
Have I mentioned to you all that the husband and I both have our 10 year high school reunions in October? So, I am on the look-out for a good night time dress that doesn't look like it is trying too hard. I think this lovely number says, yes, I was in the math club, but I also enjoyed a good Jack Daniel's Watermellon Cooler from time to time.

The Kate Spade Halle Wedge

One word - YUM. I treat myself to a new pair of black work shoes in the spring and the fall. Love these, but the price is a little steep. Good thing Jessica Simpson has been taking time off her day job to design shoes. These are almost as good as the Kate Spade version.

The J. Crew Jacinda Jacket in Honey Glaze

This would be great with jeans for a Saturday and equally great with some navy work pants for a Monday meeting. Love the wearability.

What are your almost fall favorites?

For the Preppy Bridesmaid

2008-08-20T21:57:00.004-04:00

I'm off to Dallas tomorrow morning, EARLY. Like so early, I think the last time I had to set my alarm clock this early, it was to cram before the SATs.

Anyways, wanted to share this lovely stamped monogram necklace from GemsByEm on etsy. This would be a great bridesmaid/hostess/just for me because I am awesome gift. Agree?

Preppy Party Craft Kick

2008-08-20T16:17:00.005-04:00

O.K. This project makes me want to learn how to sew. I love the look of this home-made garland. Also perfect for your next birthday party or shower.

Via The Purl Bee. WARNING: This website will make you want to be a craftier person.

Monogrammed Chocolates

2008-08-18T15:12:00.002-04:00

I am obsessed with this personalized candy board via Martha Stewart.

This will be on the agenda for the next shower I throw. Especially these babies. They are almost too pretty to eat.

YUM

2008-08-14T10:12:00.003-04:00

Loving the neckline and look of J.Crew's Gracie wedding dress. Also loving the price ($395) and that it comes in petite.

Also really loving the Cecelia dress for the maids.

And the Matilda or the Super 120 (in purple) if you're attending a fall/winter wedding.

Pink & Green Preppy Wedding

2008-08-13T15:57:00.004-04:00

Here's a picture from the lovely wedding I attended this weekend. As we entered the afternoon cocktail hour, we were greeted by servers with silver trays filled with signature cocktails (pink lemonade & vodka and bourbon & gingers) and these beautiful table arrangements overlooking the lush lawn of the Farmington Country Club.

The event planners for the wedding, Easton Events were fantastic. I even got to chat with one of their planners, who sent me a link to this beautiful wedding they coordinated. Check it out gals, it is lovely.

And in case you're wondering, Jamali Garden Supply has the best selection of trays, julep cups in varying sizes and lots of galvanized products (we used their french vase to hold our sparklers).

Hypothetical Do Overs

2008-08-11T16:20:00.002-04:00

If I had it to do all over again ….

I would look like this.

Mr. Preppy Wedding and I would hop on a plane and climb to the top of this castle.

I would learn how to say A Perfect Fit in Italian.

There would be nutella gelato instead of a wedding cake.

Now how about you girls?

Richmond Wedding & Home Inspiration

2008-08-07T11:09:00.002-04:00

I just love it when I find bloggers who live in my city, it's like your cheering for the same hometown team. In the last few weeks, I have been searching for more inspiration and found these two little Richmond based gems:

- The Little White Book - awesome site for Richmond wedding planning. There are vendor reviews, location ideas and lots of other inspiring tidbits. Check it out.

- This Young House - some great information on DIY home projects. And the couple who runs the blog had a super cool, low key wedding.

Which leads me to my second point. I've also gotten a few e-mails from Richmond brides-to-be and new married ladies who were interested in having a meet-up. I am proposing limeaid and raspberry white chocolate cookies at Mosaic Cafe on September 17 at 6:00pm. So, shoot me an e-mail or leave a comment if you're interested in coming. We can talk about weddings, how much we love Richvegas, where to get the best pedicure in town, celebrity gossip, whatever you want. I look forward to actually getting to meet some of you!

Onto pressing matters. I have a plane to catch this afternoon and then it's off to Charlottesville for a wedding that is going to be super, super chic and very UVA. Patricia Lyons is photographing the event, so I can't wait to meet her and can't wait for you all to see the pictures!

Martha Stewart Does Wedding Collection at Wal-Mart?

2008-08-06T11:43:00.002-04:00

Guess where I am this week?

Hints: It's very hot, everyone is very fit and Will Smith did an awesome song about this city a few years back.

And while I was turning into my plush hotel bed last night, I saw a commercial about the new Martha Stewart Celebrate Collection at Wal-Mart. Did you girls know about this? I checked it out and there are a few cute things and everything is at a perfect price point. Here's a grouping of the eyelet collection, it is tres cute.

Photo Frame Cake Topper & Eyelet Lanterns

2008-08-01T12:47:00.003-04:00

Two more hours to vote girls!

And while I know you are probably tired of details from my wedding, I'm going to link to our recently added knot real weddings post anyways!

UPDATE: Numero FIVE is the Winner. Congrats to the Number 5 bride. Erika - forever-more, you can tell people you had the preppiest wedding of 2008!!

Like totally impressed

2008-07-31T15:48:00.002-04:00

I am so, so impressed by how many votes have been cast in a day's time. Thank you so much for delurking and weighing in, it makes me happy to know that you all care about and read the blog.

I'm giving y'all until 3pm tomorrow to cast your vote. Right now wedding #5 is in the lead. So, if you don't agree, vote!

TIME TO VOTE

2008-07-30T10:04:00.016-04:00

Guess what? I finally had a second to breathe last night and so I think it is time to vote for your favorite preppy wedding!

Now, I have over 2,000 hits to my site in a day, so you lurker fans out there, I want YOU to vote too. Wanna know why? Because my favorite preppy vendors have agreed to provide prizes for the winner of the contest. Here's a rundown of the most prepptastic prizes for your favorite bride:

A Set of Monogrammed Cocktail Napkins from To Bee Named

To Bee Named, the perfect place to personalize napkins, guest towels and coasters for your next party or wedding! Also, with many gifts to chose from for bridesmaids gifts, hostess gifts or "me" gifts! And we all know the Preppy Napkin blog written by To Bee Named's owner Jennifer.

An Awesome Oval Serving Dish with a Mini Accent from The Merry Martini
The Merry Martini believes that every day is an occasion where you should celebrate in style. Their online store is the first place I go to look for interesting wedding shower gifts, they a great eye and their products are truly unique. And guess what you brides-to-be? You can register on their site. There's also a Merry Martini blog - check it out.

A Customized Apron (pick your own design) with a set of monogrammed salad bowl set from The Palm Gifts

The Palm Gifts the first place I go for anything monogrammed. They have a great selection of things to spoil any preppy gal or guy. This is a great stop for wedding party gifts and the quality of their products is stellar. Their blog is also a great resource for finding cute things on sale and for checking out the preppy trends out there.

TO VOTE, all you have to do is leave the number of the wedding you love the most in the comments section of this post. And, just in case, here is a run down of our contest entries (click on the picture to read the original post):

2008-07-23T22:54:00.003-04:00

OK. Still stalling. I forgot I had to meet Mr. Preppy Wedding at a viewing tonight. And I have been working since then.

And now, I am too tired to put together the big post I had planned. Instead, I am jammin out with my precious Dempsey Dooodle to Chris Brown's Forever.

Can you picture it? He does a MEAN robot. Here's a pic of Dempsey to help you imagine....

Right. So I only got this one night, and I gotta sleep :)

Whew.

2008-07-23T13:59:00.005-04:00

Before I give you any excuses let me give you a rundown of my week:

- Scraping glue off my kitchen floors until 1am in preparation for new, fantastic, beautiful floors that were installed monday
- Boarding a plane to NYC, working a bunch and getting back on said plane to return to Richvegas (of course there was a jaunt to Taste-D-Lite in there where I had the most amazing red velvet froyo on earth)
- Attending 80000,0000 meetings today
- Watching Bailey win the starring role on Legally Blonde (which I had guessed since I saw Bailey outside a theatre on my last trip to NYC)
- Scheduling a bunch of other immediate work trips for Thursday and Friday
- Letting out a congratulatory gasp last night when I found out Mrs. MMM is preggo

Now, give me a few hours and I will be back with a proper post. That is unless I drop from exhaustion in the meantime.

5 Favorite Summer Wedding Gifts

2008-07-17T09:38:00.005-04:00

Prize post coming tomorrow (I'm still waiting on one more vendor). I've been getting lots of emails about shower/wedding gifts. Here's a list of my top 5 this summer:

- Monogrammed Hangers. Totally customizable. Seriously, this is a preppy person's dream.

- Williams Sonoma Monogrammed Carafe. This would be awesome as a bed-side table standby. Totally chic.

- Personalized Birch Tree Mugs. How super romantic and unique. This would make me smile every morning while sipping my diet coke (I'm not a coffee person quite yet). Thanks to Jessie for sending my way!

- Homemade Party Tub with a gift certificate to your local gourmet beer/wine store.

- Framed, Customized Wedding Day Silhouette.

Later gators, hope everyone has a great Thursday!

The Last of The Preppy Wedding Contest

2008-07-15T15:18:00.011-04:00

Just wanted to share with you the last entries for the preppy wedding contest. There are also some good honorable mention detail shots that will give you some great inspiration!

I'll be back tomorrow to talk about prizes and to open up the voting for all you readers.

Croquet at a wedding. Sign. me. up. For more details, check out her knottie bio here.
This lovely bride is a fellow Wahoo and had her wedding in Charlottesville. Take a look at the bridal party on the Rotunda. Nothing better in life than some Take it Away on the lawn with wine & friends. Except maybe a night on Rugby Road with keg stands and friends, anywho I digress.
And look at this awesome beach wedding. Beautiful bride and groom, check. Cake that looks like its covered in sand dollars, check. The most awesome candy bar known to man, double check.

Here's a better look ...

OK, moving onto the detail shots.

Outdoor weddings need beautiful flowers and a focal point for the ceremony. Like this.

Check out more pictures on her blog.

Everyone's furry best friend needs to look good on the day of the wedding. Enter, this guy.

Everyone needs to fly their families crest on the day of the wedding, like so.

Talk about breathtaking event design. Wow. (Photographer is Angela Anderson)

Guess What I did this Weekend...

2008-07-13T17:05:00.004-04:00

Girlfriends, Sun & Fun. The BEST way to spend a Saturday.

The Preppiest Wedding - Number 8

2008-07-10T17:12:00.005-04:00

You guys like the movie Legally Blond right? (And do you watch the MTV LB on Broadway Special, cause you should, like watch in on demand tonight, go Autumn!). Anywho, I love that movie, but I always aspired to be more of a Vivian Kensington than an Elle. And as a Vivian, I would surely get married on the cape with a beautiful lace gown, groomsmen in colorful pants and a seaside reception.

Well, when I ran across wedding number eight, I immediately thought of Vivian. And if I wasn't a southern girl who appreciated her potato cakes, I would want to be the girl from the Cape who liked her clambakes. Following me still? If not take a look at the wedding below and see what I mean? LOVE it.

And I am obsessed with the back of this dress. Seriously, this is an awesome, flattering dress for you brides-to-be out there.

Details:

Bride's Dress: Judd Waddell

Bridesmaids: Kathlin Argiro, blue and white seersucker with white grosgrain ribbon sash; Bridesmaids' Shoes: Jack Rogers Navajo sandal in white

Groomsmen: Blue Blazers (Groomsmen's own), Mint Pants (Ralph Lauren Golf), White Shirts (Groomsmen's own) and Ties By Vineyard Vines (Vineyard Whale in Light Blue), Cordovan penny loafers, no socks (Groomsmen's own)

Location: St. John's Church, Old Saybrook, CT

Reception: The Water's Edge, Westbrook, CT

Flowers: Hydrangea (blue and white) and Cream Roses

Slideshow from Photographer: http://www.stevedepino.com/weddings_flash_movies/2007/28_Jill_Matt/

The Preppiest Wedding - Number 7

2008-07-07T17:09:00.009-04:00

Hi everyone. No, I did not disappear. I am not even returning from any kind of remotely exciting plans from July 4. Instead I was working, cleaning (even did the baseboards on Sunday - eww) and trying to get my kitchen ready for some brand new 1950 style black and white flooring to be installed next Monday. And sometimes you have to make the responsible decision to choose floors over a vacation. It is a good thing my husband makes the responsible decisions, otherwise I would be writing to you today about the awesome tan I got and how many mango daiquiris I could consume during happy hour at the swim up hotel pool.

I hope you all had more fun than the domestic bliss I was able to take in. My husband called it our very own staycation, but I saw through that made up word that was invented to fool women into thinking that staying at home was any kind of vacation. However, I did make the scenic drive to Williamsburg to hit up the J.Crew outlet where I had a mini stroke when I saw the additional 40 percent off sale signs. Who needs fireworks when you can get a tank top for $3.00?

Anywho, I am back to bring you wedding number 7 in the never-ending preppiest wedding contest. I have two more entries I want to share with you. And then you'll get to hear about the prizes. And the awesome preppy vendors who agreed to make this contest happen. So, take a look at this kelly green affair. And I will hit you up again tomorrow after I have run laps tonight to work off all the icecream I ate during said staycation.

Details:
Brides Dress: Tomasina
Groom& Groomsmen suits: J. Crew linen suit, Vineyard Vine's ties
Bridesmaids Dresses: J Crew hot pink dresses
Wedding Location: Westin Resort and Spa on Hilton Head Island in the Port Royal Plantation
Flowers: Flowers by Sue
Photographer: Shara Lana

Things I Love: Summer Edition

2008-06-25T09:55:00.003-04:00

I have a big work event this afternoon, so please excuse the fluff post. I have three more weddings I want to highlight for The Preppiest Wedding contest and then it will be up to you gals (and guys) to rate your favorite!

But, for today, here are the things I am loving this summer:

Stila Eye Shadow Wash In Kitten
Awesome shade, easy application, wears all day. Love, love this stuff.

Frederick Fekkai Apple Cider Clarifying Shampoo and Condition
Gives you hair lots of ummmphh. And when you hair looks bigger, your face looks thinner.

Kate Spade Sunglasses
Got these babies in black on super sale at TJ Maxx for 20 dollars. They are oh so Jackie O. and will make you look very sophisticated (even with a T-shirt and Jeans).

The Movie Priceless
Saw this last night with a friend and if you love all things french, this movie is for you. Beautiful scenery, awesome clothes and a very cute love story.

Kool Aid Singles in Cherry
When I got back from Chicago, my husband had bought these on his weekly grocery trip. Mixed over ice and some tap water, you'll feel like a kid who is ready for summer.

Nine West Pelli
A friend had these shoes in black patent and they are oh so cute. Perfect with jeans and the wedge means you won't have the stabbing day-after pains of dancing the night away in a 3 inch heel.

Things I Love About Chicago

2008-06-23T12:18:00.005-04:00

1. The Journey cover band at Castaways. Nothing like a good frozen drink coupled with a few fist pumps on a Saturday afternoon.

2. The turtle pie at Mia Francescas. Seriously, it is heaven.

3. The behind the bar stripper poles (yes, there are two) at Shenanigans' House of Beer. Also, thank you Shenanigan's for playing O.P.P. as you know how to please a bunch of sorority girls who grew up in the 90s.

4. The fact that the Bloomies across from our hotel had a whole wall of petite sized designer jeans. Are you aware that Citizens actually have a petite bootcut? Short girls of the world, these jeans will make you very happy.

5. Last, but not least, I love that I got to spend lots of time with some of the prettiest, smartest, funniest, wildest girls I know. Nothing can beat a bride-to-be who did not quit dancing even after throwing out her back. And nothing is quite as sexy as a bachelorette who hits the town with two icy hot bandages hidden behind her super cute last night as a single gal attire.

Preppy Dresses to Wear to Summer Weddings

2008-06-19T10:02:00.004-04:00

Alongside what to buy for a baby shower, I also get lots of questions about what to wear as a guest to summer weddings. Since most are outside or require at some point being out in the hot sun, I say go with a short dress in a fun color or print and metallic shoes.

Personally, I would always want to be overdressed and not under dressed, so here are a few favorites that you can dress up with accessories for a wedding and dress down for everyday life. Keeping that in mind, think a fun color, a classic shape, a cool fabric and a fun jewelry or shoe.

Pazzi Dress from Calypso (ON SALE for 95.00)
Erin Louise has this dress and I love it, super cute shape, a dressy fabric and it has POCKETS. Love the flame color. Pair with these shoes in brushed gold and these earrings.

Shoshanna Trapeze Halter Dress (ON SALE for 210.00)
Love the print and the universally flattering neckline. Pair it with simple gold shoes like these and some gold hoops. Note to readers: Have these shoes and love them, but they do need some breaking in.

Banana Republic Wrap Dress
This is for petite gals like me or gals who like to cover up a little and not be so exposed on top. I really like the splash color, I would pair it with this bracelet, these earrings and these shoes.

Hope this helps - do you readers have a favorite summer wedding dress? Do tell.

The Preppiest Wedding - Number 6

2008-06-18T11:45:00.001-04:00

Hello from New York. I have another absolutely beautiful REAL preppy wedding for you today. Take a look at this classic beach inspired affair.

All photos courtsey of Lunaphoto.

Details:

Brides Dress: Elizabeth Filmore (Veil is Vera Wang)

Bridesmaids Dresses: J.Crew Sophia Dress

Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Carrol & Co. of Beverly Hills/Pasadena and Ties by Brooks Brothers

Wedding Location: La Jolla Country Club in La Jolla, Ca

Waiting for my Real Life to Begin

2008-06-17T14:41:00.002-04:00

One last post before I go. Check out this wedding from Patricia Lyons Photography. Seriously, it brought tears to my eyes.

Someone has to have their first dance to the song that plays during the slideshow, it is called Waiting for my Real Life to Begin by Colin Hay.

Go check it out, see if you don't feel a little mushy inside!

Preppy Baby Shower Gifts

2008-06-17T09:19:00.004-04:00

Hey y'all - I am about to hop on a plane to NYC, but I wanted to answer a question I get a lot via e-mail, so here goes. So first comes marriage and then comes baby, right? A lot of newly married gals need some help venturing into the uncharted territory that is a newborn. When we get that baby shower invite, we're sort of unsure what to do. China, we got that. But, car seats, not so much.

Here are some suggestions of things I have done in the past. All you mommies out there, feel free to leave your favorite ideas in the comments section, pretty please.

High End

Kate Spade Baby Bag (Love, Love, Love this one and it's on sale)

Kennedy Cradle from Dimples & Dandelions (It's such a keepsake)

A session with a local photographer who specializes in baby/family portraits

A Pack & Play for when baby and mom come for a visit

Low End

Your favorite children's book growing up with these super cute book labels from Tiny Prints (see blog sponsors for 5% off)

Fun Pacifier Clips or monogrammed bloomies (for a girl)

Trumpette socks

Mustella New Born Gift Set

Hope this helps, see y'all tomorrow!

The Preppiest Wedding Part 5

2008-06-16T10:39:00.010-04:00

Good Morning everyone. Hope that you all had a fantastic weekend, I felt like it was almost impossible to get out of bed this morning.

This week is going to be a busy one for Mrs. Preppy Wedding. I am heading to New York City tomorrow and will be there until Friday and then I am flying to Chicago for a bachelorette party for one of my favorite (and tres, tres preppy) sorority sisters.

In other awesome news, my bff since sixth grade and the uber talented graphic designer Erin Louise (otherwise know as the art director and associate editor of The Preppy Wedding) will be visiting the headquarters of brides.com today to attend the Wedded Bits lunch. She promised she would post for me tomorrow to fill you in on all she learned about new wedding trends and the launch of the brides.com wedding blog.

Last, but not least, I have the fifth entry in the Preppiest Wedding Contest below. The bride was awesome about sharing all the details of this nautical inspired preppy affair, so enjoy my friends ...

Details -

Brides Dress: J.Crew Susanna Dress

Bridesmaids Dress: J.Crew Embossed Strapless Beach Dress in navy blue

Grooms/Groomsmen Attire: Blue seersucker blazers from Jos. A. Banks, white pants, and pink ties from Brooks Brothers

Wedding Location: Maple Hall - Claiborne, Maryland (Eastern Shore)

I also love the table arrangements - they are just loose hydrangeas in painted galvanized buckets tied with a grosgrain ribbon, so easy and so cute.

Father's Day Frosty for a Good Cause

2008-06-12T16:21:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone. Just a small public service announcement for my readers.

This weekend, June 14 and 15, Wendy's will donate 50 cents from the sale of every Frosty product, including new Frosty Shakes, at participating restaurants, to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption.

Currently, more than 129,000 U.S. children who are waiting for the love of forever families.

The goal is to raise more than $1.3 million to support the work of the non-profit Foundation and its signature program: Wendy's Wonderful Kids (WWK). This program is filling a critical need by funding and supporting full-time adoption recruiters at local agencies in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Canada to match parents with waiting foster care children.

So go, buy a Frosty this weekend and know that you are doing something to help lots of kids out there who need your help. These are kids who are waiting for a family to call their own.

Oh and spread the word, would ya?

Additional Pictures and Details from Preppy Wedding Number 2

2008-06-11T17:47:00.009-04:00

The fantastic bride who planned preppy wedding number two sent me a few more pics to share this week. Take a peek, I love her style. Also, here are some details on the wedding:

We got married at the Malliouhana Hotel in Anguilla and all photos are by Thomas VanVeen. Katie Martin of Elegance and Simplicity in Washington DC was our wedding planner and also did all of the floral design.

I have around FIVE more weddings to show you, so this fun contest should last into next week. I want to wait a little longer to reveal the prizes as I may have another prize to add in the next day or so!

Check back tomorrow for more entries.

2008-06-10T16:22:00.001-04:00

I haven't forgotten about you or the contest, I promise. I'm a little swamped right now, but I have lots more weddings to share. Be back tomorrow folks!

Down to Business

2008-06-06T16:27:00.002-04:00

First things first, I am EXTENDING the entry deadline for the Preppiest Wedding contest. So, if you were in or had the preppiest wedding out there, send me pictures by Monday. I have a bunch more weddings to post AND I will let you know all about the great prizes on Monday. And readers, remember to check in next week and vote for the Preppiest Wedding.

Second, I got an e-mail from Kristen at I Do Originals and she wanted to extend an awesome discount to preppy wedding readers to her new affiliate site Exclusively Sew. Check out the site, you can get monogrammed dress tags or bouquet ribbons AT 50 PERCENT OFF. That's right, half off. Just enter Preppy50 during check out. The coupon expires 6/30/08, so get to it ok?

Now girls, have a fantastic weekend. Enjoy the sun, have some fun and see you Monday!

Wedding Four

2008-06-06T14:47:00.005-04:00

This is such a preppy beach wedding. LOVE it. Some details: brides dress is Nicole Miller, bridesmaids dress is J.Crew's Claudine, sandals are Fondu by Nine West (they have a tiny starfish - the theme of the wedding), groomsmen suits are Banana Republic and their ties are J.Crew. The wedding was a destination affair in Islamorada, Florida.

Wedding Number Three

2008-06-05T17:16:00.002-04:00

Love this wedding, totally chic. Some details: It took place in Pennsylvania at a farm estate, Dress by Mon Cheri (a one of a kind design for the bride), the cake is Martha Stewart inspired and so beautiful and the cummerbund and bow-tie for the groom are from Richmond's Peter Blair.

Remember - you have until Friday to submit your preppy wedding pics. I have some great prizes lined up for the winner, so enter today!

Search for the Preppy Wedding - Part Two

2008-06-05T10:01:00.004-04:00

Here are bride/groom dress details from our second entry. Seriously LOVE the seersucker and purple for the groom. And the bride's dress is a Dora by Melissa Sweet while the necklace is Vera Wang. Love this look - modern & preppy at the same time.

The Search for the Preppiest Wedding - Part One

2008-06-04T16:57:00.010-04:00

Here is the first entry for the Preppiest Wedding contest. For all you readers out there, we will vote on the contest next week! So keep checking in for entries!

Wedding Number One.

This wedding is pink & green personified. Take a look at this Lilly Pulitzer inspired wedding. Pineapple theme (yep, that's an ice sculpture), grosgrain ribbon seating board (a la Martha), send off confetti by Artistry in Motion.

And here are some more details:

Wedding Dress is Priscilla of Boston Style 2902

The Bridesmaid Dresses are Lilly Pulitzer in the style "Natalia"

The men's ties are Vineyard Vines Polka Dot

The couple were married at Vale United Methodist Church and the reception was at International Country Club in Chantilly, VA

Photos are by Amy Snyder photography

Videography was Blue Sky Films (I have heard awesome stuff on them)

Motown band called Rolex

And the bride made all the table cards, tents, display, so she is crafty - take a look.

And my two favorite shots. One of the confetti exit and one of the bride getting ready all Lillied up!

I'll be back tomorrow with lots more!

The Preppiest Wedding Contest

2008-06-04T09:39:00.002-04:00

OK. My readers are amazing. I am totally inspired by all your weddings. Here's another teaser pic, so beachy beautiful and look at that bouquet. I will officially start posting the entries this afternoon, so check back then. And send me your pictures, please!

Keep Them Coming

2008-06-03T09:44:00.006-04:00

Just a teaser picture for you readers - this is a pink & green preppy wedding wonderland! As always, I am so inspired by the vision & creativity of my readers.

Remember - send pictures of your own preppy weddings my way, the contest ends on Friday.

Real Preppy Reader Weddings

2008-06-02T12:07:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone! Hope you all had great, restful weekends.

I had a chance to see Sex in the City with a bunch of friends, and it was so good to see those girls together again in NYC. I highly recommend grabbing a few girlfriends and heading to the theatre, you will LOVE the film.

This week, I thought it would be fun to challenge all your preppy brides out there to send me pictures of your real-life favorite preppy weddings. They can be detail pics, dress pics, cake pics, kissin pics, whatever. Just make sure they represent preppy wedding to you. I have a great prize for the girl who sends in the best pic, so get to it!

Calling All Dallas Preps

2008-05-28T09:12:00.002-04:00

Sorry for the late notice girls, but Mr.Preppy Wedding has been fishing here for the last few days and I have been slammed at work.

Anywho, if you are a Dallas prep and you want to meet up for drinks tomorrow (Thursday) night in the West Village, e-mail me and let me know. Also any suggestions on where to meet would be appreciated (the West Village is very close to my hotel).

Also on the preppy road show this month -

New York City (MMM - hoping your in for another dinner!) on June 18.

Wedding Dress of the Summer

2008-05-24T20:21:00.003-04:00

I am officially obsessed with this wedding dress via J.Crew. Could someone please buy it, wear it for their wedding and send me the pictures?

2008-05-21T11:53:00.001-04:00

Just wanted everyone to know you can save 5% on wedding paper divas orders through this link. You know how much I LOVE their customer service and products. Shop for your wedding & shower needs today!

The After Wedding Party Dress

2008-05-21T11:12:00.002-04:00

So, one of the great new trends I have seen for spring, summer & fall weddings is the invention of the second party dress. That's right girls, one dress for the church wedding and the second dress to liven up the reception. Check out this awesome beach wedding via Snippet & Ink to see what I'm talking about.

A bunch of you have asked for some suggestions of dresses to wear for your reception, so here are a few of my favorites. These would also look fantastic as dresses for your rehearsal dinner!

1. Nanette Lepore 2. Eliza J 3. Betsy Johnson 4. Betsy Johnson

Armato Design Letterpress CD

2008-05-15T14:53:00.003-04:00

Obsessed with this letterpress CD insert. Super expensive, but so, so, so cool. Awesome wedding detail & favor.

Mr. Preppy Wedding is heading to Charleston today to have a reunion with his fraternity brothers. For all you South Carolina girls, if you see a very tall, very cute man wearing J.Crew critter shorts aimlessly walking at say 3am, please call me immediately.

I'm still finalizing details for the summer '08 preppy roadshow, but I'll post some dates next week, maybe we can all meet for a drink ... or three.

Off to do some community service work with kids, I can't wait.

Please excuse the dust ...

2008-05-13T15:58:00.004-04:00

So, just wanted to apologize to everyone, I am using a new ad network to help supplement the time I spend on this lovely blog. No worries, I have personally screened all the advertisers and all meet the preppy wedding stamp of approval. So check the sites out and get some great stuff knowing that you're also contributing to LuLu's dog obedience college fund (doesn't it look like she needs schooling? Can you see me yelling, drop the stick LuLu, I bet you can).

In other news, I am busy planning work trips to Dallas, Charlotte, New York, Raleigh and Washington. Perhaps we need to have some preppy wedding meet-ups during my U.S. Summer Roadshow? This week, I am excited to share some details on a great wedding book I just received AND may have a fun contest for my readers in the next week, so tune in!

2008-05-12T21:02:00.001-04:00

The First Daughter's Preppy Wedding

2008-05-12T14:53:00.007-04:00

While I am not be the biggest fan of Bush's presidency, I gotta tell you, the man knows how to throw one heck of a preppy wedding.

Take a look at the pics below.

From Martha Stewart's the Bride's Guide - her dress is Oscar de la Renta

From Martha Stewart's the Bride's Guide. I really like the white Mexican flags (see this site for a place to buy your own).

The cake shot via the Chicago Tribune. I like the simple design.

Last but not least, an outsiders view of the tent via the Chicago Tribune, I like the luminaries!

If you want to see another great celebrity preppy wedding, check out the NY Daily News profile on Eli Manning's preppy beach wedding.

Preppy Guest Book

2008-05-07T17:16:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone! So, my big work conference is done and I feel like I finally have time to focus on details that don't revolve around the font of a name tag or picking a dessert option that will please everyone. The other good news is that my performance this week coincided with an annual review that saw a nice raise in my salary and bonus for this fiscal year, so yeah for me.

On to bigger and better things. I have found a lot of cute things for you this week, but I want to share my favorite, this super cute mini-note guest book from Martha Stewart Crafts. I love the idea of guests writing you a personal note and this is a fantastic way to keep everything together.

Gone are the gold leafed guest books (and attendants - what an awful job) of the past. Here are a few great ways to incorporate a preppy guest book that will impress your guests and leave you with a lasting memento of their presence:

A book that represents you or your wedding venue

Think a picture book of your hometown, or a book representing the place you met or took your first vacation together. You can also create a custom photobook of your engagement pictures with plenty of room for your guests to leave messages.

Message in a Bottle

This would work fantastically for a nautical themed wedding (think all those navy & white storyboards). Set up two large cylander vases for guests and paper rolled and tied with twine. Guests would write you a special wish, tie up their message and drop it into the bottle for you and your groom.

Photobooth Fun

I love the idea of photobooths at wedding (they also serve as a great favor for guests), so have guests take their pics stick them in a book and write you a message (this also works with polaroids).

Forecast your Future

For more whimiscal weddings, set up a station where you have created a board that asks guests to predict your future with fun questions like: how many kiddos will you have, when will you buy your first house, retire, you get the idea. You could really personalize this to you as a couple (if your hubby is a BMW guy, ask when he'll buy his first!).

Things I Love: Spring

2008-05-01T12:11:00.016-04:00

Here are some of my favorite spring buys, anyone ready to spend their economic stimulus check?

1. A White Purse

Love this one by MZ Wallace (but it is 400 dollars).

This one is by Target and it is 20 bucks, I may not LOVE it, but I could make due.

2. Some Yellow Sandals

I hit the budget jackpot on this one. They are by Go Jane and they're 12 bucks!

3. A new dog bed for LuLu. Were you all aware that pottery barn has a pets collection? No one told me! And the new Pet products by Mrs. Meyers, sign me up.

Dog Bed by Pottery Barn. LuLu is an Xlarge kinda girl.

4. Anything with PomPom detailing.

J. Crew, nuf said.

5. Martha's make your own charm bracelet. I want to make one of these for my mom & sis with old pics of the fam. Oh yes, and the set is on sale for $2.99. This would make a perfect bridesmaids gift.

6. A new patio set for the backyard. This one is a great possibility, it is inexpensive but super cute. And we'll celebrate with a backyard bbq with this invitation from paperbuzz.

Can you believe this is from Walmart?

So are you all going to watch the cast of Sex In the City on Oprah today? I am totally excited to see the whole cast together. So excited, I am going to sneak out the back door today to get my fix.

Inside the Preppy Wedding Style File

2008-04-30T16:42:00.008-04:00

Hola Amigos. So things are a little stressful in Mrs. Preppy Wedding's life these days. And by stressful, I mean I have awful allergies (which would be fine except that I have a man sneeze, not a pretty little dainty achoo like most gals), a major conference to plan (it's next Monday and my brain might just explode by then), over 150 e-mails in my inbox (I like less than 20) and I have a major teenage like breakout (I had to spackle my face in MAC green tinted concealer this morning).

I hope to seek some solace in you all understanding that life is a little out of control these days. And so I didn't have to think, I am going to share some of the photos I have been saving in my "idea file." Please excuse the fact that they don't fit a certain theme, just think of this as a foray into my style diary!

Via Martha's Furniture line by Bernhardt. I want this room. Mr. Preppy Wedding will just have to embrace the pink. LOVE the ceramic trophy vase.

From Cottage Living. The exact shape of my cottage kitchen. Want the chairs and the floor. See there's even a water bowl for LuLu. Just like she likes it - pushed into the middle of the kitchen, since she can't seem to keep things on her doggie placemat.

Wheat grass placecard display. Love this. And you enrich your smoothies with the grass after the wedding.

Seriously, not sure about the colors, but I love this whimsy look.

Ok, that's it for today. I will be back tomorrow with some of the new things I am loving for spring.

I'm having a Preppy Party

2008-04-23T17:15:00.003-04:00

Happy Wednesday everybody!

I'm excited to let you know that I am hosting an online party for Preppy Monogrammed Gifts. They have a bunch of super preppy products that are perfect for spring! I've put together a small sampling of my favorite items that would also make great bridesmaids gifts.

Love the toile wristlet and tote by Jelly Belly. Get these and fill them with a giftcard that is personal to each maid. Or try the custom make-up case or purse. You pick the colors & patterns that best fit your preppy maid for a more personal touch. Last but not least, I love the monogram car decal, a true MUST for all your preppy automobiles!

There are such great bridesmaids & wedding gifts at PMG. Make sure you check out their Daily Deal section and if you do decide to buy, mention that you were a guest at Mrs. Preppy Weddings online party!

Yummy Preppy Ribbon Bouquet

2008-04-22T22:01:00.003-04:00

Hope everyone had a great weekend. Things were very rainy & quiet at my house and I got to watch all the HBO John Adams miniseries I have heard so much about. It was quite interesting and informative - you should watch it.

Just a small bit of wedding inspiration from Martha Stewart's newest issue which features a spread on doing a wedding in cameo and black. I am in LOVE with the ribbon wrap for this bouquet. This would be a cheap way to dress up a monochromatic bouquet.

Seersucker Bridesmaids

2008-04-17T11:17:00.001-04:00

I get lots of requests for places where bridesmaids can purchase seersucker dresses. Well, I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the new seersucker dress options from Thread. Here are my favorites and a sample of the their color options.

Favorite Fashion Finds

2008-04-14T11:15:00.008-04:00

So, I had a fantastic end to my BirthWEEK. We had lots of fun bowling, here's a pic of the girls who came out to play!

Mr. Preppy Wedding and I also attended an engagement party on Saturday. They had a very yummy slider station for guests, something I would highly recommend for any of you planning engagement parties for the summer! A big thanks to my friend Sarah for going shopping with me before the party, I was having one of those days where nothing really fit and she was so very patient as we returned to J. Crew THREE TIMES before I settled on this jacket (in white), these pants (in navy). these earrings (that look like turq, but are forever21) and these super cute shoes (in light gold)!

Since, I know a lot of you other preppy gals out there are looking for great shower outfits, check out these awesome finds at Target (and all for under $50.00)! Enjoy and Happy Monday!

Yellow Cardigan, Blue Dress, Navy & White Dress, Black & White Dress, Yellow Trench

Happy Birthday to Me

2008-04-10T15:32:00.004-04:00

Sorry for my lack of posts yesterday, I was celebrating my 28th Birthday! The day included being woken up to Mr. Preppy Wedding and the dogs singing happy birthday and presenting me with a little blue box and this new bracelet. I also got to visit my two favorite restaurants in Richmond. Don't worry, in my family, you don't have a birthDAY, but a birthWEEK, so we're ending the week with a bowling party with family & friends. Very 2nd grade, I know.

I was going some research for you dear readers on my favorite knottie bio site and I found a couple new bios you have to check out. I really liked:

Mrs. Pink AJV

ReichB

Pasaseattle

One of the cutest things I saw, was this pic. What a cute idea - you and your husband tying on a personalized apron and cutting the cake and serving your guests. This would be a fantastic and efficient way to see all your guests and thank them for coming! Love it, hope you like it too.

Via Knottie Mrs. Pink AJV

Well, I have to scurry again, I'm finalizing plans for my 10th high school reunion, yes, I am a party planner extraordinaire!

Preppy Shower Gift

2008-04-08T13:29:00.003-04:00

Hmmm. I think I may need to buy this cute Martha Stewart picnic basket as a gift for all my spring wedding showers? Or maybe just for myself? And it comes with all the fixins...

Preppy Wedding Stamp on Sale

2008-04-07T17:13:00.003-04:00

Had to share this great deal with you all. My favoite address stamp by Expressionary is being offered for 40% until May6 and you get free shipping. That means your grand total will be $27.00 for a personalized stamp. Get over to their site and pick out your favorite. It will become your new, fun stationary tool!

And while you have your debit card handy, head over to Vineyard Vines and get their prepster pink polo for $39.99.

Hope everyone had a good weekend. It was cold and wet in Richmond, but that didn't stop me from doing some shopping for my preppy swap pal!

Every Preppy Wedding Needs a Monogram

2008-04-04T15:43:00.005-04:00

Just wanted to share another great source for preppy monograms, Lucky Designs. I love the clean look of their designs and you can get a standard monogram that fits your wedding for only $8.00. This is a total STEAL.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Lucky Designs also has a great wedding blog and for you moms and moms-to-be out there check out the Lucky Baby blog.

I updated some recent pictures into my flickr, you'll see some great pictures from Mexico there. Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Preppy Weddings On a Budget

2008-04-03T15:51:00.007-04:00

I got an e-mail a few weeks ago from the lovely Reese in South Carolina who was looking at ways to save money on her navy & marigold casual affair this summer. I created a story board for her with lots of inspiration and I also have some helpful tips for you brides-to-be looking for a stunning chic affair without breaking the bank.

Invite, Cake, Bridesmaid's Dress, Tablesetting, Mini-bride

Stationary
It’s very easy to save money and still be beautiful when it comes to stationary. Look to vendors like weddingpaperdivas.com for a very inexpensive alternative that offers lots of options. I also adore etsy sellers invitedink (love these letterpress save the dates) and seller paperandink (here’s another favorite). Use a great company like I Do Originals to create a monogram and use it over and over on your save the dates, program, favor tags and menu.

Attire
My advice on this one is easy - if your prioritizing with a wedding budget, it is very easy to save money on your dress. Pick a silhouette you love and scour ebay. Or utilize the wedding collection at J.Crew or the wedding style dresses at Thread or Jenny Yoo. You can also save money for your bridesmaids by picking a non-bridesmaids dress. Try Nordstom’s awesome website to pick your dress, I personally like designers Eliza J., Shoshanna and BCBG.

Venue
If you don’t have lots of money to spend, look for venues that are not the norm. Try local parks, recreation centers with character, or old city buildings. Look for venues that allow you to work with caters of your choosing. Restaurants are also great places to host more intimate affairs and you don’t have to worry about a rental budget.

Caterers
Work with a caterer that inspires you to create a menu that reflects your personality as a couple. Personally, I don’t like the stuffiness of a sit-down dinner (I think they keep the party from ever getting off the ground). One of the easiest ways to save money is to work with a caterer that will let you bring in your own alcohol. You will save thousands.

Flowers
Go for monochromatic arrangements with lower cost flowers. Add a spin to arrangements by keeping them in unusual vases (think antique tea tins, mason jars or hobnail glass). Keep church flowers to a minimum (no one notices them really) and pick a reception venue that is ornate and doesn’t need a lot of dressing up. Or try something new, like the table setting above (I love the look and height of the wrapped gifts).

Cakes
Keep the design simple. Don’t hire the guy who charges 6 bucks a slice. Forgo the unsavory fondant and pick a vanilla or chocolate icing that can be dressed up with flowers, polka dots or fruit.

Favors
This is an easy one - if you don’t have lots of cash - don’t do a favor. If you NEED a favor, try these super cute favor tags and inexpensive cellophane bags of your favorite candy. Or have your caterer pass late night snacks while you toast your guests. My favorite idea is a take-away milkshake and ice-cream sundae bar to say good night to guests.

Special Touches
It’s the special touches you show your guests that really make your wedding meaningful. And those touches don’t have to cost a lot. For place cards, write handwritten notes to guests thanking them for coming. If you’re hosting an outdoor summer wedding, have ice-cold bottled waters and lemonade passed as your guests are seated and waiting for you to walk down the aisle. Create thank you cards that feature a picture of you and your groom as a nice take away for your guests!

Splurge

There are a few items I think you have to splurge on - your photographer, a live band and your wedding rings. Instead of a photographer and a videographer, spend more money on the photographer who will take quality pictures. A live band is a MUST over a dj in the South - the motown band makes the party. And rings, well they last forever and a girl needs to reflect exactly how much she is loved!

Preppy Wedding Featured on In Style Weddings

2008-04-01T14:13:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone - guess what - The Preppy Wedding was featured on InStyle Weddings website as one of their favorite wedding blogs! I am very, very excited, In Style magazine and their wedding publication are two of my favorites and offer me lots of inspiration every month.

Now, I am going to return to my cold medicine induced slumber, but I promise I'll check in tomorrow and I even have an inspiration board for you!

Excuses, Excuses Yet Again....

2008-03-26T13:35:00.002-04:00

So very sorry for my absence. It is fiscal year end at my real job and I am up to my eyeballs in paperwork. Y'all know how much I love this blog, it's just that the blog is not paying the mortgage, my tab at J Crew or for LuLu to get her much needed monthly pedicures.

I apologize in advance for all the e-mails I have not answered. I promise you'll see a lot more of me after April 15. This week is shaping up to be a busy one, Monday was my very first wedding anniversary and my sweet husband took me shopping at the outlets to celebrate. I got lots of fun, cute things and he lasted more than two hours shopping. This marriage is really taking him outside of his comfort zone, you see.

Tonight I am meeting up with a bunch of sorority sisters and tomorrow I am hosting a girlie game night at our house. I also have bunches of pics from Mexico and Easter that I need to upload to flickr.

So posting will be sparse for a few weeks, please do forgive me. For now, I have a few new wedding blog obsessions that may take up the slack. So, head over to:

Ritzy Bee (a DC/Northern Virginia Event Planning Company's blog)
It's Lovely
The McWoods (Love, love their most recent post on Do you know us icebreaker cards)

Happy Reading!

2008-03-20T14:37:00.002-04:00

So, I have a new super crush on the very talented Michael Buble who I had the chance to hear in concert last night in Charlottesville. Let me just say, he is very funny and very cute, two characteristics that I find irresistible in a boy. A big thanks to my friend Paige who won tickets, but had to stay home to take care of her sick little man.

For all you brides-to-be, he sang this great song which would be fantastic for a first dance. He also plays multi-million dollar weddings, so if you money to spare, you should hire him.

In other news, you have to check out Connecticut Charm's blog. She has organized a preppy blogger spring swap that sounds like loads of fun. I can't wait to start thinking about what I will send my secret preppy pal.

Last, but not least, you have to check out weddingpaperdivas.com for their new letterpress partnership with William Arthur Stationary. You can now order your favorite wedding paper divas designs in letterpress and you know how much I adore all their designs. They really have created something for every wedding. I used them for the stationary needs of my own wedding and was so impressed with the quality of their work and the responsiveness of their customer service!

Well, I am off for now. This gal is getting her hair cut tonight and prepping for lots of Easter fun as my best friend Erin is on her way home from NYC!

Preppy Floral Designs

2008-03-18T11:06:00.007-04:00

I am officially obsessed with the blog housemartin and her fantastic floral designs. See below for pictures from her blog and check out these amazing designs completed for a recent wedding. So, so beautiful.

Update: Visit Ink & Peat to visit the professional site of Pam, the lovely author of housemartin!

Preppy Birthday Wishlist

2008-03-14T11:48:00.009-04:00

I'm finally back in Richmond. And I may even unpack my suitcase this weekend. And go to the grocery store, since all we have is diet chocolate cherry doctor pepper (the whole chocolate thing sounds better than it tastes) and a few bottles of wine.

Thank you all for your amazing e-mails and comments on your favorite wedding gift, I'm hoping that Modern Bride decides they like some of our ideas.

So, instead of a wedding post this afternoon, I am inspired by the awesome weather and my recent frugalness in the clothes buying department to set out some of my spring favorites.

Last night, I just had to escape the house and I ran over to Forever 21 to look for some cute, inexpensive spring items. I left with these super cute jackets and I already LOVE them.

I also got this dress in rust and it is super flattering. I am considering this dress (they only had one in the store and it wasn't my size), it would look super cute with a black cardigan and patent heals!

J Crew is killing me with their final sale 20 percent off again! I am really thinking about buying this top that I have been eyeing since January. And if you need a free ship code, FS0310 works for any amount.

Last, but not least, Mrs. Preppy Wedding has a birthday coming up on April 9th (and our one year anniversary is March 24). I thought I would create a masterful birthday wish list, just you know to dream!

J Crew Katie Sweater (in Geranium)

BR A-Line Skirt (in Millstone)

BR Polka Dot Skirt

Tiffany's Black Onyx Toggle Bracelet

Two Ballard Designs Outdoor Pillows in Black Damask

These fun finds from Old Navy

Happy Friday everyone. We get to watch our precious 1 1/2 year old nephew on Saturday and Sunday, so I am very excited to see how Mr. Preppy Wedding and I fare in with a toddler.

A Question for Preppy Wedding Readers

2008-03-11T15:48:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone. I am enjoying the lovely Dallas weather today from my nice office on the 32nd Floor. My mom and I had a great time visiting the West Village last night. We road a little free trolley from our hotel and had great Tex Mex at MiCocina followed by shopping in some of the cutest boutiques I have seen in a while (Epic Apparel was my favorite).

But, I wanted to pop in and say hello because I got an e-mail request today from a journalist in NYC writing an article about wedding gifts for a very popular wedding magazine. She wants to know from you all - what is the most personal/thoughtful/original gift you received for your wedding? Additionally, how about really unique gifts that you have received for being a wedding attendant?

Feel free to e-mail me with your responses or leave them in the comments section. If you do leave a comment make sure to include your e-mail so that I can be in touch.

I know my preppy readers won't let me down on this request!

Candy Inspired Cakes

2008-03-07T16:48:00.006-05:00

For some reason, all I can think about this afternoon is candy. I've already had two trips to the M&Ms jar in my boss' office and swiped a few peppermints from the upstairs dining room, but I am still craving candy. In an attempt to ward off my cravings, here are a few beautiful candy inspired wedding cakes from Martha!

Oh and did I forget to tell you, this little jet setter is headed to Dallas for work next week. The upside is my mom is coming with me to visit some family. So, I see some southern style shopping and good Tex-Mex in our future!

Have a fabulous weekend everyone.

I'm back and sunburned

2008-03-06T16:01:00.001-05:00

Hi everyone! Mrs. Preppy Wedding is back and in business albeit a little sunburned. The wedding was a hit and tons of fun. And I consumed way, way too many mango daiquiris and had way, way too much fresh guacamole.

Since this was the first destination wedding that required a passport, I didn’t really know what to expect, but I gotta say, I left with a new appreciation for escaping to the beach with your closest family and friends, saying those vows and then celebrating for three days straight. So for all you gals considering a destination wedding – DO IT! Especially if it involves an endless amount of chicken tacos and celebratory tequila shots in your honor.

I’ll try to load some pictures later this week, although I have to admit, because of the aforementioned tequila shots, I was a little afraid to bring out my new camera.

For you gals thinking of the perfectly preppy destination affair, I found a few great resources for information:

Wedding Channel’s Destination Wedding Tips

The Wedding Photojournalist Association (they include a destination wedding section)

I am loving Paul Johnson Photo and Meg Baisden in case you want my opinion. And both are open to travel.

Things I Love: Spring 2008 Edition

2008-03-05T11:00:00.003-05:00

Here are some of my favorites for spring in no particular order!

Philosophy MicroDelivery Peel.
I use only Philosophy skin care products and this is one of my new favorites. It will leave your face feeling like you just had a facial and as soft as a baby's bum.

The Ninewest Juliarae Sandal in Yellow.
I am loving this whole jewel tone movement in fashion right now. These would look so cute with a little black dress.

Tibi Belted Dress.
Saw this in Saks this weekend and fell in love. Don't know where I would wear it, but I think I may just walk around the house in it admiring the pretty buttons and belt.

Yummy Outdoor Wear.
I want this patio set. But I may need this house (my dream house in Richmond).

Preppy Stationary Needs

2008-03-04T14:28:00.000-05:00

I just found a fantastic new site for all you preppy brides. Check out minted.com for the best stationary selection from those amazing independent letterpress vendors out there. Now you can find and drool over their fantastic creations in one place!

Preppy Wedding Dos

2008-02-26T15:19:00.010-05:00

Love, love, love these preppy dos for your wedding day (via brides.com). And yes, I do confess I have an obsession for headbands. They are the perfect preppy accessory.

Casual Black & White Maids

2008-02-26T14:32:00.006-05:00

I've gotten a request from a summer bride looking for bridesmaids dresses that will fulfuill her black & white preppy affair. Here are my favorites via nordstrom. I would advise - stay away from graphic prints as they will look to overdone with your multiple maids!

Eliza J Strapless Party Dress - $158 (it comes also comes in lots of jewel tones)

BCBG Strapless Floor Gown - $340 (this one is expensive, but I LOVE it, I mean it looks like toile, hello?)

Pheobe One Strap Dress

And just because ...

Preppy Wedding Takes a Vacation (to attend a wedding!!)

2008-02-26T11:40:00.005-05:00

Hi Friends!

Sorry for the lack of posts last week. Things have been a little crazy at work and I have just been playing catch up physically since my trip to NYC. And do you remember me telling you about that destination wedding in Mexico, well the husband and I leave at 6 am tomorrow for sunny Playa del Carmen. It is going to be a fantastic trip to celebrate the wedding of Mr. Preppy Wedding’s best friend from college.

Can you see me here at our hotel with a drink in hand?

I’ve got some posts saved up for you all, so I’m hoping that you’ll be hearing from me even as I sit on the beach with a margarita in hand. Oh and since I know you’re wondering, I got this fantastic dress for the wedding, this staple for the rehearsal dinner and a bunch of cute finds from Target to round out the mix. I’ll also be taking pictures so you’ll get to see all the fun we’ve had when I return.

Before I go, I do have some great wedding finds for you this Tuesday morning.

For you girls who want to do suits for your groom & groomsmen, run over to this sale at Joseph A Banks. They have their fantastic year round suits on sale for $99.00 in a variety of colors. This is what our groomsmen wore and they loved the suits.

Check out Maggie’s real-life super preppy winter wedding. I created a storyboard for her here, but now you can see the results of her big day. Congrats Maggie!

And I am loving this fantastic silhouette necklace. Do you think it would be weird to wear a LuLu silhouette around all day?

So, look out for posts this week & next. And I promise lots of details from our destination wedding adventure!

2008-02-19T16:47:00.000-05:00

I'm not feeling so hot this week, so please excuse my lack of posts. I promise to be back by Monday!

Preppy Wedding Albums

2008-02-15T14:29:00.004-05:00

Sorry for the lack of posts this week. Things have been a little crazy with the traveling and with work. I promise to have bunches of good stuff for you next week.

Hope everyone had a fun Valentine's Day. Mr. Preppy Wedding got me some cute monogrammed desk accessories and I got him this cool watch and the super cute family tree by Good Stock Designs (check out Kim's site, it is amazing). We topped it off with a casual dinner here and watching Lost together for dessert.

As March approaches, I am surprised to see that I have almost been married for a year. So, I am setting a goal to put together my wedding album before my actual anniversary. Here are some options I am considering. I am leaning towards the first because I want something simple and timeless. Have you all found any other fantastic ways to make an album?

Together Book (they bind your photographs into a linen album with a stamped cover)
My Publisher
Martha Stewart Photo Book (via Kodak Gallery)

I'm also thinking of doing these cute MS mini-books for my bridesmaids, they are oh so cute.

2008-02-11T11:17:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone. Signing in from NYC today. While it is VERY chilly here, the weekend has been lots of fun (you can see my flickr photos for more details). Tonight, I get to have Mexican with one of my favorite preppy bloggers MMM.

I got an e-mail this weekend for a reader looking for some fun, preppy wedding shoes. I'm a huge fan of Charles David shoes and he has some fantastic options for the preppy bride. Check the links below for details and happy monday!

The Pandora (in pink, gold or silver)
The Pendant Pump (in red for a splash of color)
The Wistful (in gold)
The Fizz (in Eyelet for the summer bride)
The Baci (sold out everywhere, so check ebay)

CD Wedding Favor Resources

2008-02-07T09:20:00.000-05:00

I was looking at ebay for K&B these last few days and found some great options for wedding CD favors (my favorite kind of favors!!).

I really like these tin CD containers and they come with everything you need to make it look beautiful. All you have to do is make a compilation and burn the CD. I also like these paper envelopes and glassine sleeves if you want to customize your CD a little more.

In other news, I am heading to NYC tomorrow for work and to visit my best friend. Not sure what the itinerary holds this time around, but I am sure it will be lots of fun. I just got a new camera, and I have added a flickr stream to the site, so I'll be sure to post some photos from my adventures next week. They're calling for snow in the city this weekend, so I had to get these fantastic (and comfortable) boots for myself (well, to be honest they're an early Valentine's Day present from Mr. Preppy Wedding). Fret not, they were 70% off here (if you're in Richmond, stop by everything is on BIG sale).

So, I hope everybody has a fantastic weekend!

K&B's Preppy Wedding Details

2008-02-06T09:44:00.003-05:00

Some more details for K&B's special day ...

Photos via The Knot & Martha Stewart Weddings

Great Preppy Bridesmaids Jewelry

2008-02-05T11:10:00.000-05:00

Just found this fantastic site via The Palm Peach. Their jewelry looks just like a much higher priced site. Ms. PalmPeach says the quality is great, so order your's today. I think I may need to have the following:

K&B Preppy Wedding Attire

2008-02-04T11:58:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to keep you all in the loop on that resolution I passed earlier in January.

I have enlisted the first Preppy Wedding Inc. wedding that will be held at a plantation near Richmond in October of 2008. I’m working with the lovely couple K&B to make sure that the wedding goes off without a hitch. You’ll be seeing the results of my initial storyboarding this month and I’m going to lead off with some ideas about attire for the wedding. See below for details and happy Monday everyone!

Wedding Dress, Bridesmaid's Dress, Groom's Attire, Flowers & Sign

J Crew Does it Again

2008-01-31T16:41:00.000-05:00

Check it out, J Crew has launched their new spring line. And it is fantastic!

I just want a few things to start with. Good thing I have a birthday coming up. And because I know he is now an avid reader - dad see above for my list.

For the Preppy Baby...

2008-01-31T13:13:00.000-05:00

Love these prints from Made by Girl. A very cool, new way to display a child's name in his/her room. I think this would be a fantastic shower gift?

Make sure you check out her valentine cards, they're super cute.

Preppy Navy & Yellow Bridesmaid Inspiration

2008-01-30T13:35:00.000-05:00

I was lucky enough to have dinner last night with a bunch of sorority sisters who are now living in Richmond. We had lots of fun remembering some of the trouble we got into in college and revisiting some highlights of our lives as delta gammas.

One of the attendees last night was looking for bridesmaids dresses for her wedding this summer. It’s going to be a casual affair and she is using navy and yellow are accent colors. She was having trouble finding bridesmaids options, so I put together a little lookbook of fun summer inspired dresses to fit her perfect preppy wedding!

1. J. Crew 2. eDressme 3. Jenny Yoo 4. Shoshanna via edressme

5. Jennifer Reale via edress me 6. Shoshanna via edressme