Category Archives: Accessories

Easy Renaissance Hair Style

13 Thursday Jun 2013

Posted by in Accessories, Wedding Themes

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Yes . . . that is a 29 week baby bump!

I’ve begun to wear my hair in this style simply because I have very long hair and it’s something to do with it. This style is easy, looks nice, and keeps my hair off my neck. I think this would be great for a late 15th century themed wedding, or “Flower Child” like occasion.

I’ve been asked several times “How do you do that?”  “It must be so hard!”  and I tell them it’s not . . . really, it’s not hard at all! Here is how I do it:

First, you need hair elastics and bobby pins . . .

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and ribbons!!!

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These are only a few that I have . . . they are my “crack”!

I use many different types of ribbon and it really allows me to get a huge range of looks, one for every outfit! One of my favorite kinds are my homemade ones. I go to Fabricland and other shops on Ottawa St N in Hamilton, ON, and go straight to the most expensive fabrics and ask for the minimum they can give me. That’s usually a few inches, and never costs be more then $5! I then just sew the two sides together, flip it inside out and there you go! See picture below.

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But I also get some nice ribbon from places like Michael’s.They range in price from $1-$10. Some are plain fabric and others covered in glitter. Some are sheer.These are great for accents. Weave a glitter one in and then over lap with a sheer one and you can get a real unique look!

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One of my sheer fabrics over top of other colours

So, once you have the colours that you want you can start. The first way I’m showing is for long hair. I’ll do a second way for those with shorter hair.

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So, begin by brushing your hair to one side. I always do it to the left. Why? Not sure, just do. Then, if you want, tie it off. You don’t have to, but depending on the type of ribbon you’re using, it can make it easier to work with.

IMG_0057Then take your ribbons and find the middle.

DesktopTake the mid point of your ribbons and wrap them over the base of your hair.  Begin to wrap them around your pony tail as seen here.

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Keep wrapping the ribbons around. You can wrap them over all your hair or leave bits showing like in these photos. Once you’re at the end you can either put an elastic around the end of the ribbons and braid the rest of your hair if there is more, or braid the ribbons into your hair. It helps that at the end there is hair for the pins to grasp.

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Pull it over your head. It can be higher up or lower back, whatever you like. Pin the end of your “braid” to your hair. Sometimes it helps to pull some hair over the braid and then pin it.  I was able to pin this one with one bobby pin . . . so it’s not hard.

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And that’s it. If you want, you can add some fabric to the back for a Medieval or Greaco-Roman look. I just tucked this in, but i don’t think it would stay long. I would hot glue some fabric to a comb and attach it into my hair that way.

Below is for shorter hair. Basically you are doing two braids at either side of your head and folding them over at the top.

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Divide your hair in half and start with one part.

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As above you can start with an elastic at the base then take ribbon, divided in half, and begin to wrap.

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When done, tie the base with an elastic and do the other side.

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Here you can see it slipping a bit, just push the ribbon back up to the base.

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When done flip one over, and then the other.

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And pin! And that’s it.

I hope you enjoyed this. I love this look and you can work any colours that you may have in your theme into this hair style.  It’s great for a theme wedding or if you just like it. It’s great for summer for there are no curls to fight with and no hair making you hot!

Have fun!

~Jordin

A very Murdochian Wedding ~ Men’s

03 Wednesday Apr 2013

Posted by in Accessories, For the Man in Your Life, Wedding Themes

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With shows like Murdoch Mysteries and Downton Abbey, the turn of the 20th century is a very popular look for weddings these days, especially for men. The high collar and puff ties of this era do have a certain, ‘je ne sais quoi’, (having a certain something) do they not?

Photo Source ~ The Hooded Utilitarian

Photo Source ~ The Hooded Utilitarian

But, there is more to getting this look by simply putting a man in a suit, and I have found the perfect website to help you with this!

The Gentleman’s Emporium has everything you need to make your man as dandy as William Murdoch. You can even take advantage of this site to get very unique outfits for all the gentlemen in your wedding party. Based out of Virginia, they ship to almost anywhere. (See their website for more information on your country.)

Just be a bit careful when purchasing, for they also have Regency clothing, which is the early 19th century and the look is very different from the late 19th/ early 20th centuries. I will do a blog post on a Regency theme wedding later this year.

The Gentleman’s Emporium makes it easy for you to outfit your man. They offer complete apparel for a Murdochian Wedding. All prices are in American dollars:

Suits:

Left ~ Graydon Wentworth - approx $769.15 (US); Centre ~ Gustave Wagner - approx $474.10 (US); Right ~ J.T Farnsworth - approx $724.60 (US)

Left ~ Graydon Wentworth – approx $769.15; Centre ~ Gustave Wagner – approx $474.10; Right ~ J.T Farnsworth – approx $724.60.

Individual Jackets:

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Top left ~Ensign Wool Jacket – $139.95; Top right ~ Victorian Formal Tail Coat – $198.00; Bottom left ~ Velvet Smoking Jacket – $124.95; Bottom right ~ Vienna Brocade Tail Coat ~ $359.95.

and vests:

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Left ~ Ambassador  – $64.95; Centre ~ Aristocrat (Vienna brocade) – $99.95; Right ~ Brisbane – $49.95.

They also have accessories like hats:

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Left ~ Victorian Top Hat, black – $94.95; Centre ~ Slouch Hat, brown – $64.95; Right ~ Tall Derby, brown – $46.95.

The most beautiful pocket watches ever!!!

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Top left ~ Filigree with black pearl finish – $24.95; Top centre ~ Mechanical with Silver Lacy Design – $34.95; Top right ~ antique gold zodiac design – $24.95; Bottom left ~ Mechanical with ornate window, antique gold $39.95; Bottom centre ~  Mechanical with antique gold rotary design – $39.95; Bottom right ~ Sprockets with antique gold design – $24.95.

Cravats, Ascots, Puff Ties and Bow Ties:

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Top row (left to right): Satin Puff Tie ~ Silver $19.95; Deluxe Western Bow Tie ~ Black $19.95; Deluxe Floppy Bow Tie ~$ 19.95; Classic Cotton Cravat ~ Black $19.95.

Bottom row (left to right): Satin Puff Tie, Crimson Comstock ~ $19.95; Vivid Paisley Ascot ~ Silver, $19.95; Bow Tie~ Brown Huxley Stripe $9.95; Deluxe Continental Cross Tie ~ $19.95.

And monocles, tie tacks and walking sticks:

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Left: Glass Handheld Magnifying Monocle with Chain ~ $8.95; Centre: Faceted Diamond Tie Tack ~$9.95; Right: Faceted Deep Sapphire Tie Tack ~$9.95.

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Left: Jade Tie Tack ~ $14.95; Centre: Mother of Pearl Tie Tack ~$14.95; Right: Tigers Eye Tie Tack ~ $14.95.

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Left: Compass Walking Stick ~ $39.95; Centre: Filigree Walking Stick, Faux Ivory $39.95; Right: Serpent Walking Stick~ Silver $39.95.

They also have final touches like:

Taupe Silk Sleeve Garter~ $14.95

Taupe Silk Sleeve Garter ~ $14.95

Men's Spats, White ~ $24.95

Men’s Spats, White ~ $24.95

Men’s Collars:

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Left: Detachable Cotton Collar: Banker ~ $7.95; Centre: Detachable Cotton Collar: High Stand ~ $7.95; Right: Detachable Cotton Collar: Wing Tip ~ $7.95.

Wow! A Murdochian Wedding is within reach! Please send me your photos and a write up for me to post on my blog!

And, I’m currently working on a post focusing on Victorian wear for the ladies and also on turn of the century locations available for weddings and photos, some of which are actually in the show Murdoch Mysteries!!!

All the best! Jordin

The Dream Team ~ Designer Valerie Cousens

15 Friday Mar 2013

Posted by in Accessories, Eco-Friendly, Wedding Gowns, Wedding Themes

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Designer Valerie Cousens. Photo Source~ Jon Evans hamiltonmagazine.com

Fashion designer Valerie Cousens wearing one of her redesign dresses made from a men’s sweater. Photo Source ~ Jon Evans hamiltonmagazine.com

Today I’m delighted to introduce you to one fabulous eco designer – Valerie Cousens (born in England now a resident of Hamilton, Ontario). Valerie was recently featured in Hamilton Magazine as one of eleven Hamiltonians who have reset their lives. They are called the Dream Team because they have left behind old careers and followed their passions, reinventing themselves. Valerie left behind office and retail life and refocused on the arts, eventually branching into fashion design. Hamilton Magazine columnist Michael Borrelli describes Valerie as a “rehabilitated number cruncher” who found fashion.

Valerie, who is also an environmentalist, Reiki practitioner, artist and volunteer, describes herself as a “fashion redesigner.” She creates one-of-a-kind, all-recycled, wearable art that is fashionable and affordable. Valerie believes in fashion with a purpose, community outreach and involving youth in her projects.You can find Valerie’s upcycled streetwear and accessories in shops around Hamilton or she will custom design for you.

I caught up with Valerie at the recent 10th annual RevWear Fashion Show held in Hamilton, Ontario. I was interested in meeting Valerie because I had been told about her secret upcycled wedding dress! I loved the show and couldn’t wait to see Valerie’s creation. I wasn’t disappointed and had the privilege of meeting Valerie after the show. I’ll describe her design through the pictures below.

Valerie, who has no formal fashion design training, found an outdated wedding gown in a second hand shop that would work for her design.

Left: the before picture of the wedding dress. Right: The bodice of the wedding dress is made of lace. Valerie updated the sleeves for a more contemporary look. Photo ~ Suzanne Steenkist

Left: the before picture of the wedding dress. Right: The bodice of the wedding dress is made of lace. Valerie updated the sleeves for a more contemporary look. Photo ~ Suzanne Steenkist

RevWear encourages designers to incorporate a message into their design. Valerie wants viewers of her creations to know that brides have options when it comes to choosing their wedding dress. They don’t have to buy from traditional suppliers or wear what everyone else is wearing. They do have design options that are unique and beautiful and eco friendly.

Each layer of poof was made from recycled men's white shirts, gathered and attached with buttons. Photo ~

Each layer of flounce was made from recycled men’s white shirts, gathered and attached with buttons. Photo ~ Suzanne Steenkist

At first Valerie's dress seemed traditional like most others. Source ~

At first Valerie’s dress seemed traditional like most others. Photo ~ Suzanne Steenkist

When model Monica Germaine stepped on to the runway we were all wondering how Valerie would show this dress. Valerie’s crew took turns unbuttoning each flounce from the dress (made from recycling men’s white cotton dress shirts) to reveal a printed message and an under layer of Valerie’s signature recycling of neckties.

Photo ~

The wedding dress after the flounces have been unbuttoned. Photo ~ Suzanne Steenkist

Instead of being influenced by culture, belief systems and convention, each flounce encouraged brides to imagine something different: a wedding dress that reflects the care of creation and unique design.

Design freedom is worth a spin! Photo ~

Design freedom is worth a spin! Photo ~ Suzanne Steenkist

Not only was the wedding dress unique but so were the accessories. The headpiece was handmade from paper – recycled sheet music to be precise!

The headpiece was created from recycled sheet music and the from the collar of a men's shirt then studded with rhinestones. Photos ~

The headpiece was created by S.J. Salise from recycled sheet music and Valerie designed the choker from the collar of a men’s shirt and then studded it with rhinestones. Photos ~ Suzanne Steenkist

What a great show and imaginative wedding dress design by Valerie Cousens!

What a great show and imaginative wedding dress design by Valerie Cousens! Photo ~ Suzanne Steenkist

Valerie has created the company Green Dress Designs where you can see more of her upcycled design. Check her out on Facebook too! To contact Valerie call her at 905-522-7679 or email her at cousensv@yahoo.com.

Thanks Valerie! All the best! Jordin

Introducing the unique Jewellry of Danielle O’Connor

08 Friday Mar 2013

Posted by in Accessories

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At a recent trip to a trade show in Toronto I came across some fabulous one-of-a-kind finds that I thought you would like to see. I am now making beautiful and uniquely Canadian designed jewelry plus handbags and other wedding accessories available through my blog. Soon you’ll be able to shop for vintage jewellry, custom handbags, head wear and garters!

When you see something you like please contact me at: lwc@cogeco.net or 1-800-463-0884.

Today I’d like to introduce you to the unique custom designs of award winning Canadian jewellry designer Danielle O’Connor.

Canadian designer Danielle O'Connor

Canadian jewellry designer Danielle O’Connor

Jewelry

More and more brides are incorporating a family heirloom or remembrance into their wedding dress, bouquet or hair piece. It could be a piece of jewelry or lace from your mother’s or grandmother’s gown sewn into your gown or onto your veil.

Danielle O’Connor makes beautiful cuff bracelets and pendants from antique sterling flatware. Below are two beautiful pieces that Danielle has fashioned. The pendant was once the end of a teaspoon and the cuff bracelet also a spoon.

These make beautiful one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone in your bridal party from the flower girl to the mother of the bride/groom that can be worn at your wedding celebrations. You can have a stunning “something old” and perhaps even “something blue”!

If you would like to have Danielle craft a piece of sterling flatware into a unique pendant or bracelet please give me a call at 1-800-463-0884 or e-mail at lwc@cogeco.net. I would be more than happy to speak to you about Danielle O’Connor turning your pieces of unused antique silverware into beautiful works of art.

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Antique Silverware Necklace with Swarovski Crystal. $50.00 plus tax and shipping.

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This one-of-a-kind cuff bracelet has been crafted from an antique sterling silver teaspoon and is embellished with purple beads secured with sterling silver. Uniquely designed to fit any wrist size. $40.00 plus tax and shipping.

Danielle's studio and showroom in Thamesford, Ontario

Danielle’s studio and showroom in Thamesford, (London) Ontario

 

All the best! Jordin

A Cameo Apperance

18 Monday Feb 2013

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Cameos are a lady’s fashion necessity. Every woman should own one, either as a necklace, brooch, earnings, rings, etc. They whisper softly of a time past and of the elegance and grace of the female form.

This is my Cameo, that my Great Aunt Velta gave me when i was thirteen.

This is my cameo, that my great-aunt Velta gave me when I was thirteen.

Cameos are not jewelry, per say, as the cameo is actually a carving technique. It can be an item of jewelry, of course, but vases can be cameos, and cameos can be carved from almost any material. And, they are not just of women. Men, animals and plants can also be”cameoed.”

http://madamepickwickartblog.com/2010/03/as-the-world-urns/

The Portland Vase showing glass cameo figures, is said to be the most expensive vase in the world. Source ~ http://www.madamepickwickartblog.com

Cameo’s are a classic look, and they are not just something from the Victorian era. Cameos date back to Greek and Roman times.

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This eagle cameo dates to 27 B.C.E. ~ source wikipedia.org

Cameos can be made from almost anything.They can be glass . . .

Or shell . . .

From semi precious stones like opal, agate, lapis lazuli . . .

Precious stones like amethyst:

Emeralds . . .

Rubies . . .

Pearls and mother of pearl . . .

Resins like amber . . .

Even volcanic rock . . .

I think adding a cameo to your wedding would be a lovely idea, and not just as a piece of jewelry. A cameo can be added to your bouquet, tie one around your unity candle or the vase for your sand ceremony, or attach to your wedding cake. And, since many cameos are family heirlooms, there is a personal connection as well.  It can be your your something old or something borrowed too, even your something blue!

Take a look at my Pinterest page with many more cameos to give you an idea of how you can incorporate a beautiful cameo into your wedding!

All the best! Jordin

Save Your Heels with Starlettos!

30 Wednesday Jan 2013

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I cringe every time I see brides or their guests sinking into lawns as they gather for their photographs or to enjoy an outdoor wedding. A totally unnecessary situation! The solution? Starlettos heel protectors.

Starlettos make it big at the 2012 Academy Awards.

Starlettos make it big at the 2012 Academy Awards.

While there may be many other heel protectors out there, I find this Australian product the best on the market. They are so good that they found their way into the Emmy and the 2012 Everyone Wins at the Oscars Nominee Gift Bag!

Starlettos at Race Day.

Starlettos at Race Day

Starlettos are all the rage in the UK and Australia where Race Days are very popular and women find themselves spending a day or two walking on grass. How many times have you found yourself in that situation with your newly purchased or favourite pair of stilettos?

Now you can walk with confidence on grass, gravel, decks and they will keep you from slipping on the dance floor! And you can wear your Starlettos indoors on hardwood floors. No more need to take your shoes off at a dinner party!

Starlettos are great for all surfaces including grass, gravel, decking and hardwood floors. They come with a convenient storage pouch that fits easily into your purse.

Starlettos are great for all surfaces including grass, gravel, decking and hardwood floors. They come with a convenient storage pouch that fits easily into your purse.

How do Starlettos Work?

Starlettos are made of a strong plastic base to keep your heel safely out of the grass. The flexible plastic cups the heel of your shoe and provides additional grip for walking on smooth or polished floors.

However, like anything plastic, in very wet conditions Starlettos can become slippery on some wet surfaces or come off your heel if your shoe is wet. So please, always be careful when walking in the rain and, no trampling through bogs with these on! The manufacturer recommends a dry Starletto on a dry shoe heel for maximum performance!

Starlettos are designed for at least 5 or 6 full days’ wear on soft ground. Each time you wear them, the manufacturer advises that you check the underside that contacts the ground as that tends to wear quickest. If the non-slip base gets worn away it’s time to replace them.

Starlettos fit most slim heels (8-14 mm). Make sure you keep them clean for maximum use and gently slip off your heels after you have worn them and store them clean and dry in their pouch.

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Where YOU Can Get Starlettos!

This is an amazing product for brides and the entire bridal party including the MOB and the MOG! They make wonderful gifts for any occasion. And, you can purchase them through me at Niagara Falls Wedding World!

We are giving one pair as a free gift to any couple who purchases one of our photography packages when they book their wedding ceremony at the White Wedding Chapel, the Little Wedding Chapel or any location wedding.

I know you’ll want to purchase these for your bridal party. The suggested retail price is $14.99.* I am offering Starlettos at $12.99* until May 30, 2013.

Please call me 1-800-463-0884 or email me at wwc@cogeco.net to place your order!

All the Best! Jordin

* plus HST and shipping

Photo Source ~ starlettos.com

Photo Source ~ starlettos.com

Adding Some Charm

02 Wednesday Jan 2013

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A 14 K yellow gold slider bracelet with 6 cameo charms, opal, sapphire and ruby. Eliteauction.com

A 14 K yellow gold antique slider bracelet with 6 cameo charms, opal, sapphire and ruby. eliteauction.com

What is it about the charm bracelet that so attracts us? It’s probably because it is much more than a piece of jewelry. What makes the charm bracelet both charming and valuable is that it represents all the important moments and milestones in our lives.

I have recently seen brides wearing their charm bracelet. What a fabulous idea! If you don’t have one yet, start one now so that even if all you have are a couple of charms on your bracelet it will add that personal, intimate touch especially to your ceremony. And don’t forget, you can have more than one charm bracelet!

Neither of these bracelets have much monetary value yet they can be priceless to the owner!

Neither of these bracelets have much monetary value yet they can be priceless to the owner!

The wearing of charms dates back thousands of years. Today, we can trace our love for the charm bracelet back to Queen Victoria. She started this fashion trend among the European upper classes in the 19th century. She was known to give them as gifts to family members which included most of the European nobility! When her beloved Prince Albert died she created the “mourning” charm bracelet that included a lock of hair and a miniature portrait of the deceased.

Above centre: Queen Victoria who loved to collect and give charm bracelets. Above left: a replica of the original 1889 charm bracelet from Tiffany's. Above right: a Victorian mourning charm bracelet from twistedalchemy on Etsy.

Above centre: Queen Victoria who loved to collect and give charm bracelets. Above left: a replica of the original 1889 charm bracelet from Tiffany’s. Above right: a Victorian inspired mourning charm bracelet from twistedalchemy on Etsy.

Charm bracelets continued to be popular throughout the 20th century. They reflected what was popular at the time. In the 1920’s and 30’s diamonds, cameos, small photos and art deco themes were all the rage.

Art deco, diamond and cameo charm bracelets from the 1920'2 and 30's. Many available for sale on Ebay.

Art deco, diamond and cameo charm bracelets from the 1920’2 and 30’s. Many available for sale on Ebay.

Charm bracelets from the 1940’s and 50’s reflected the post-war era and all the many changes in culture. Women added the souvenier charms and dog-tags that soldiers brought home with them. Semi-precious stones, movie stars – both real and animated – became popular and charms for all occasions were crafted by jewelers.

1940's/World War II charm bracelets.

1940’s/World War II charm bracelets.

From the 1960’s to the 1980’s charm bracelets continued to be big and chunky with lots of charms, very much like the 1950’s. Girls would receive them for their 16th or 18th birthdays (I think that’s when my mom got one) or for an engagement or wedding present. That charms can be added or removed depending on the occasion or mood is what has kept charm bracelets extremely popular.

A chunky silver charm bracelet from the 1960's.

A chunky silver charm bracelet from the 1960’s. Photo source antiquesavenue.co.uk

Designers have always crafted beautiful charm bracelets and still do today. Pictured below are charm bracelets from Dior and Chanel.

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As the century turned Italian charm bracelets became the rage with their totally different look. Just like the traditional chain bracelet, you can build your own bracelet with hundreds of different snap on charms to choose from.

Italian charm bracelets have been the rage for over a decade. Photo source ~ bidorbuy.co.za

Italian charm bracelets have been the rage for over a decade. Photo source ~ bidorbuy.co.za

Most recent to create beautiful charm bracelets is Pandora Jewellers.

Most recent to create beautiful charm bracelets is Pandora Jewellers.

This simple yet stunning bracelet can include your birthstone plus an infinity charm. Perfect for bride or bridesmaid. Found on Etsy at BijouxbyMeg

This simple yet stunning bracelet can include your birthstone plus an infinity charm. Perfect for bride or bridesmaid. Found on Etsy at BijouxbyMeg

Or, if you like the idea of attaching a charm to your bouquet and then later to your charm bracelet one of our officiants, Rev. Deb Vaughan, makes these lovely angel charms to especially remember loved ones at the ceremony.

These lovely angel charms are crafted by had using crystal, pearl and glass beads.

These lovely angel charms are crafted by had using crystal, pearl and glass beads.

For this post I created a Pinterest board on charm bracelets. I hope you enjoy it! And, if you have a charm bracelet or story you’d like to share on my Pinterest board, please let me know. I’d love to pin it!

I have just recently celebrated my first year as The Wedding World Blogger! Thank you to everyone who visited my blog! It means so much to me.

All the best and happy 2013! Jordin

To Have and To Hold

27 Thursday Dec 2012

Posted by in Accessories

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To carry or not to carry. That is the question.

Many brides today wonder if they should carry a handbag. Why not just shove everything you need into a tote bag and give it to someone in the bridal party or the mother-of-the-bride to carry? In some cases I would say that this is justified as a practical solution for all the things women tend to carry around, even brides. However, I also think that a lovely handbag is a compliment to your wedding attire whether you are wearing the traditional white gown, suit or other. In fact, a bridal handbag is perfect for complimenting and rounding off your wedding ensemble. And, it’s great for photos!

You'll find these and many other lovely handbags on my Pinterest board.

You’ll find these and many other lovely handbags on my Pinterest board.

The bridal handbag began as a practical, functional item. In Italy, for example, brides would carry a purse into which cash donations from guests would be placed.  Today, it can also have a practical function. Today’s modern bride can place her lipstick/lipgloss, phone, eyeglasses, medication, facial tissue, etc. in her handbag – just make sure it’s not bulging! But, consider your bridal handbag to also be a great accessory item. And, if you match your handbag to the theme of your wedding, it can play a very important supporting role.

This blog post is all about bridal handbags. You decide if you need or want to carry one, but, once you see what is available, especially on-line, I know you’ll want to include a handbag. At the end of this post is a link to my Pinterest board on handbags. I’ve included samples of handbags for all wedding themes, from Traditional, to Shabby Chic, to Goth/Steampunk, to Festive for New Year’s Eve, to Victorian, to Vintage, to Rustic.

Match your handbag to your ensemble or theme. Above left: a peach satin and black clutch perfect for a goth/steampunk wedding. Above right: A lovely clutch for a winter wedding. Below left: If you are a shabby chic bride with a spring/summer wedding this bag might be just right for you. Below right: If you'll be celebrating your wedding at New Year's this glitzy bag is perfect.

Match your handbag to your ensemble or theme. Above left: A peach satin and black clutch perfect for a Goth/Steampunk wedding. Above right: A lovely clutch for a winter wedding. Below left: If you are a shabby chic bride with a spring/summer wedding this bag might be just right for you. Below right: If you’ll be celebrating your wedding at New Year’s this glitzy bag is perfect.

You’ll notice on my Pinterest board that not all handbags are white nor are they all a clutch style. This because I’ve seen many brides who do not wear traditional white including brides in a rainbow of coloured dresses and suits. Remember that the white dress does not necessarily suit everyone and you do not need to wear a white dress if you do not want to. There are so many options for today’s bride, so please do not limit yourself by pressure from the wedding industry or what you see on television or on-line. Most important is to have what you wear an expression of yourself. However, I always advise brides to remember to have a trusted person  give you feedback on your choices for your dress, your hair and make-up, etc.

Don’t be afraid of having a handbag that picks up on your colour theme. For example, your handbag can compliment the colour of your bridesmaid dresses. There are lovely pastels for spring and bright colours for summer 2013 and darker tones for fall 2013 (see the Monique Lhuillier collection for ideas). If you, yourself, are going for colour, there are even more options for a handbag. (Designer Vera Wang is showcasing red and plum-red wedding dress for spring 2013 or designer Maggie Sottero )

Spring 2013 bridal colours from Vera Wang,

Spring 2013 bridal colours from Vera Wang, Maggie Sottero and Enzoani.

Always choose your handbag after you’ve decided on your dress and if you’re planning for your handbag to be part of the photos make sure you have a manicure!

My Pinterest board includes many items from Etsy, an on-line market place for handmade and vintage items. I also like Belk which features designer handbags and accessories at discount prices including Micheal Kors. If you like the lovely beading of handbags from India or other Asian/Middle East countries, go to ArtFire,  MyBatua or thefnd for some really good deals as well.

Fabulous evening/bridal handbags from Artfire and

Fabulous evening/bridal handbags from Artfire and MyBatua.

If a vintage inspired handbag is what you’re looking for there are some real beauties at Vintage Styler.

The vintage inspired oyster shaped handbag is one of my favourites. You can find may vintage or vintage inspired bags on the on-line especially on Ebay.

The vintage inspired oyster shaped handbag is one of my favourites. You can find may vintage or vintage inspired bags on the on-line especially on Ebay or Weddingo.

I hope you enjoy my Pinterest Board To Have and To Hold and choosing a fabulous handbag for your wedding!

All the best! Jordin

A Stamp to Remember

30 Friday Nov 2012

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I’ve found something neat for everyone planning their wedding: a great way to customize your save the date, wedding invitations and thank you notes.  PERSONALIZED STAMPS!!! Got to love Facebook ads!

You can get a sheet of 25 for less than $30 CD!! Contact Canada Post for information: http://www.canadapost.ca/cpo/mc/personal/productsservices/atoz/picturepostage.jsf

And they are available in other countries, not just Canada:

New Zealand: http://www.nzpost.co.nz/products-services/personalised-mail/personalised-stamps

Australia: http://auspost.com.au/personal/stamps-and-collectables.html

If you are from someplace other than Canada, New Zealand or Australia, ask at your local postal service facility to see if they offer this.  If they don’t perhaps you can recommend it!

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

16 Sunday Sep 2012

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It was pouring rain in Niagara yesterday when I started to write this post. And now that we are in mid-September we can expect more rain. But don’t be discouraged if you have planned a fall wedding. Umbrellas and rain gear can be fabulous props for wedding photos and can add some fun and light to a rainy day. And, if you live in an area that sees a lot of sun, consider a parasol for you and your ladies. They are delightful!

Above: A lovely rainy day photo from Nirvana Photography.The following photos are so cute that it almost makes you want to wish for a bit of rain on your wedding day just so you can get some really good shots like these. Happy Wedding Day – rain or shine!

Photo ~ Clouthier Photography

These colourful paper parasols make a striking contrast against the greenery and white of the ceremony and will be very happily received by your guests if you are having an outdoor wedding that guarantees sun! Photo by Clouthier Photography from the blog Longwood Brides. If you want custom parasols or umbrellas check out styles and colours at Bella Umbrella or Beau Coup. Many others sites for purchasing parasols and umbrellas in your area on the internet.

Above: I love the contrast of the bright green umbrellas against the dark dresses. Photo ~ eyelanderphotography.com

Below: Wow! How sweet is this! Lots of lovely wooden benches in striking surroundings at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington, Ontario or at one of the fabulous gardens located along the Niagara Parkway, at the Botanical Gardens or Butterfly Conservatory, Niagara Falls, Ontario.

Below: Looks like a wedding in the tropics doesn’t guarantee sun all the time! Be prepared for those afternoon showers. I found this great photo at www.carolinecalvert.wordpress.com.

Above: This was well planned out! Photo from www.weddingparty-boise.com.

Above: Love this artwork from Karen Addie’s website! A white parasol for a beach wedding is oh so pretty!

So don’t be discouraged like Eeyore with the weather! Rain or shine you will have a lovely wedding day!

All the best! Jordin