Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Navy As A Neutral

Yep, you read the post title right, navy can serve as a neutral.  What exactly does that mean?  Basically that navy is one of those colors that goes with pretty much everything.  Can you run through the colors and they all look good with navy?  Then I'd call it a neutral.  What's so exciting about navy is that it's dark & rich making other colors really pop.  So here's a little interior inspiration for your Wednesday morning!
 
I'm showing you interiors heavy on navy with only a few other color introductions since navy is the star here.  Don't let this limit you though.  You can add bright colors or lots of neutrals to fit your personal style.  Hence, the neutral title.
Use navy in an unusual way, think of it as replacing black.  This kitchen island is a great example.  Navy isn't as flat as black so it really adds a luxurious touch.  
Just so you don't start thinking navy is only to be paired with soft neutrals, I thought I'd share a departure from the previous rooms.  Obviously there is a lot of color here.  Now try to imagine it without the navy chair.  It would feel different don't you think?  The navy adds a sophisticated feel & depth to the whole look.  

Friday, May 3, 2013

Cinco De Mayo Inspired Wedding

Cinco De Mayo is one of those holidays that you can just cut loose & have fun with.  Mix bright colors with natural elements & even a few vintage finds.  Together they create a vibrant yet laid back look.  This wedding inspiration by A & B Creative has it all going on.  All the vibrant flowers are balanced with natural wood & antique items.  It's so interesting & oh so inviting! 
 When working with a specific theme like this, the sky's the limit.  I don't know about you, but when I have clear design direction & can really let loose & have fun.  I mean, even the food has direction.  You can incorporate so many flavors, colors, and Mexican elements.  Super fun!
 There's constant contrast going on with this look.  Colorful drinks, natural succulents.  Vintage containers, bright & bold flowers.  Modern dress, authentic bridal accessories.  Not a boring detail!
 There's a lot to say for color combinations.  Orange, aqua, and pink play off each other well.  They're super luscious & yummy.  A feast for the eyes.
Wedding Vendors:

Venue Location and Cake: Doña Tomás / Wedding Photographer: Delbarr Moradi / Event Design and Styling, Farm Table Rentals: Rebekah Carey McNall of A & B Creative / Wedding Flowers: Crimson Horticulture Rarities/ Tea Length Dress: Laundry by Shelli Segal / Floral Bottomed Gown: The Limited / Blue and pink tops: Anthropologie / Bride’s Shoes: Colin Stuart for Victoria’s Secret / Bride’s Jewelry: Nadri and Esqueleto / Bride’s Belt: Vintage / Groom’s Suit: Banana Republic / Groom’s Shirts, shoes, and tie: Vintage / Makeup: Nikol Elaine Artistry / Hair: Yesenia Guinea / Vintage Rentals: Mignonne Decor / Dinner Plates: Anthropologie / Glass Plates: Crate & Barrel / Model: Marissa Marquez

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Local Wedding Feature: Courtney & Colin's Circus Wedding

A young vibrant couple getting married in the summer just calls for a fun & colorful wedding theme.  Courtney & Colin's circus wedding is a full of just that!  The images of their day exude happiness.  So, get ready to get happy with this fun loving wedding from right here in Central Illinois!
 Central Illinois is known for it's small town festivals.  The bright colors & fun activities made for some really great shots.  Be sure to take advantage of unique locations in your area to create one-of-a-kind wedding images.  A good photographer knows how to balance the visual busyness.  Even with all the background props, the focus is always on the couple.  Great job Kristi & Taryn! 
I love how this bridal party is actually having a good time.  They're involved, enjoying the games & feeding off the fun atmosphere!
The mother-of-the-bride had great vision when planning this wedding.  The details are amazing!  A very smart design decision was to use lots of white & gray.  This really lets the color & details pop & keeps the look more sophisticated.  Also, creating color blocks keeps things from getting too busy. Restraint is a good thing when going with a BIG theme.  You have to hold back & bring out the details that really matter.
 Now what mother-of-the-bride has this much fun at her daughter's wedding?!  This fun loving theme seems to fit the couple & family perfectly!
~Vendors~
Imagine Artists:

Designs by Jill
Cassie Schock


Brenda, mother-of-the-bride & the brains behind this wedding, gives us insight into the wedding planning process.  Check it out, after the jump.