Thursday, February 27, 2014

Designer Blue and Purple Flowers Watercolor Home Decor

Did you know that I design gorgeous things for your home as well as invitations? Well, now ya do! :) One of the new things I'm doing in 2014 is each week I am going to choose a design to highlight with pictures! ooh la la! These are great for your own home or to give as gifts.


This weeks featured design is called Designer Blue and Purple Flowers Watercolor home decor.  This pretty design called, Designer Blue and Purple Flowers Watercolor, has a rich sophisticated feel. This design is a watercolor painting of blue and purple flowers with green and yellow accents. This would be a beautiful addition to your home decor.




Wednesday, February 26, 2014

2014 Wedding Trend: Jeweled Necklines

Jeweled Necklines

The bridal fashion runways were full of simple, classic wedding dresses with added sparkle along the neckline -- from sheer illusion necklines with small beading to larger embroidered rhinestones and crystals. Picture the gorgeous looks of Lake Bell and Christina Ricci's wedding dresses. And since most wedding photos are taken from the waist up, sparkly or unique details are best captured on the neckline or around the waist of the wedding dress.

Tuesday, February 25, 2014

Black and White Chevron Circles Posh Wedding Invitations

This beautiful and elegant design, called Black and White Chevron Circles Posh Wedding, has a cool modern inspired design. The background is a bright white background. Scattered across the front there are three sizes of black and white circles with a chevron stripe pattern in each one. Some overlap and some stand on their own. Wonderful for a chic black and white wedding. This set has invitations, save the date cards, response cards, thank you cards, table number tent cards, envelope seals, wine labels, binders, return address labels and more available. Use the envelope seal stickers for any of your DIY gifts - these are available in both large and small sizes!

Monday, February 24, 2014

Surprise Birthday Party?

Here is a great birthday invitation:

Lets Celebrate in Black and White Photo Birthday Invites

 

Lets Celebrate in Black and White Photo Birthday Personalized Invites
Lets Celebrate in Black and White Photo Birthday Personalized Invites by NoteableExpressions

  This fun and modern design is perfect your Birthday party invitation. Your favorite photo is sure to stand out from the rest on this elegant and modern photo invitation card. The background is black colored with white circles outlined in white. Your photo creates the main focus of your invitation with your text to the right. If you would like this design in another color scheme, please contact me via the link on my front page or look for it in Plum and Champagne, Yellow and Green, Pink and Black, Black and Pink, Champagne and Purple, Purple and White, and Brown and Periwinkle Blue. This is set up for turning 30 - but all of the text is customizable for any age.

Saturday, February 22, 2014

Top 10 Wedding Planning Myths

Here's a list of the so-called wedding rules it's okay to ignore.

You have to wear a white dress.

If the idea of a big white dress and veil has never appealed to you, don't feel pressured into wearing one. Hair clips with feathers or even just a fresh flower can replace a traditional veil, and there are plenty of bridal fashion designers who have created dressed in other colors -- think blush pink, dusty blue, buttery yellow, and more. You can even add color (and personality!) to a simple dress with a bold sash, bolero, or a cardigan.

Hiring friends is the same as hiring wedding vendors.

Just because your friend is a fantastic fashion or photojournalist, doesn't mean you'll get the same results on your wedding day. For example, an experienced photographer knows how to shoot a mix of photojournalistic action shots (getting ready, your first dance, exchanging vows) while also capturing all the must-have family and bridal party photos. Same goes for the other categories like flowers and music. Look for local vendors in your area for leads, and if money is a concern, just be open and honest about your budget from the start. If you really can't afford a vendor, ask them for recommendations of lower budget professionals with a similar style.

If you went to their wedding, you have to invite them to yours.

Don't feel trapped into inviting someone just because they invited you to their wedding. It's your day -- invite the people you feel closest to. If someone assumes they're invited, let them know up front (and sooner rather than later) that because of space or budget constraints, you had to limit the guest list.

A wedding planner is too expensive.

Here's the deal: Not only can a wedding planner help keep you organized and suggest incredible never-been-done ideas, but a wedding planner can also end up saving you thousands and keeping you on track with your budget. Many planners work closely with florists, rental companies, and other vendors and often have access to industry discounts, which they can pass along to you! Not a bad deal, eh? Even if you can't afford a full wedding planner, look into hiring a day-of planner (to take some of the wedding day stress off of you) or a wedding coordinator who can give you vendor recommendations before you start planning.

Going DIY will save you money.

Make no mistake -- DIY isn't always the cheapest route. Unless you have unlimited access to the supplies it takes to create your own stationery or flower arrangements, the cost of these items alone is really going to add up (not to mention the amount of time it takes to create invitations for 100!). Do your research before you start buying paper and flowers in bulk to make sure it wouldn't be worth your while (and sanity) to simply hire someone else to do it.

You have to have the same number of bridesmaids and groomsmen.

So maybe he has a ton of friends, and you just have a few close girlfriends. Don't feel like you have to hire extras to stand in for you to even out the sides. What's important is that everyone you feel close to is a part of your day so divvy up the jobs. Make some of the guys ushers and others readers. One can even be your honorary toast-giver. If those positions are filled, that's okay too -- there's no rule that says both sides should have the same number.

You have to take out a second mortgage to pay for a wedding.

Listen up -- there are easy ways to save money, so don't start your marriage together in a terrible amount of debt. It's all about setting your priorities. Maybe you've always known you want a designer wedding dress, a venue with a view, or an amazing bouquet. Make a list of your splurge items, and then look for ways to save in the other categories.

A DJ will play too much cheesy music while a band will take too many breaks.

You've probably heard about it or been to a wedding where the DJ played outdated music with cringe-worthy results. Simply talking to your DJ about which songs you love and which you'd rather not hear (ever) can help guarantee a playlist that everyone will love. As for bands, you know the drill -- the dance floor is packed, but as soon as they take a break, the floor clears and everyone gets bored. Instead, see whether they can go down to a 2-piece or a 3-piece set instead of popping in an iPod.

Wedding food always tastes bad.

Don't assume that just because you've been to some weddings with less than tasty food that that's the norm. Some of the hottest wedding catering trends involve comfort foods like sliders, French fries, and sundae bars. Plus, many catering companies are bringing farm-fresh items to the reception table with localized gourmet menus that will have you and your guests oohing and ahhing.

All wedding dresses are created equal.

Why do some dresses cost $500 and others $5,000? It's all about the quality of fabric, the embellishments, the construction of the dress, and the amazing fit. In other words, those pricey dresses are made to make you look drop dead gorgeous. That's not to say you have to go over budget to find a dress -- a good bridal salon consultant can suggest dresses that fit and flatter in your price range, so rely on them to help you find the right dress.

Thursday, February 20, 2014

Art Deco in Black and Ivory Home Decor

Did you know that I design gorgeous things for your home as well as invitations? Well, now ya do! :) One of the new things I'm doing in 2014 is each week I am going to choose a design to highlight with pictures! ooh la la! These are great for your own home or to give as gifts.



This weeks featured design is called Designer Art Deco in Black and Ivory. This pretty design called, Designer Art Deco in Black and Ivory, has a rich sophisticated feel. This design has a black background. There are are series of diagonal lines made up of a retro art nouveau shape in ivory. This would be a beautiful addition to your home decor.



Wednesday, February 19, 2014

2014 Wedding Trend: Rave Weddings

All-Nighter Weddings

Couples these days like to party more than ever, and want their weddings to last as long as possible. Enter the all-nighter wedding. Once the reception ends, the party continues. Couples keep the fun going by changing up the style and vibe and moving the party into another room or even an alternate venue. The after-party even has a completely different décor look with couture late-night comfort food bites and custom drink pairings. One big important to-do for those taking this route: arrange for transportation home or back to the hotel so that none of the guests drive home afterwards.

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

Art Nouveau Posh Wedding Invitation

This beautiful and elegant design, called Art Nouveau Posh Wedding, has a beautiful Vintage inspired design. The background is a creamy ivory vintage pattern with scroll designs separating your text. Perfect for a vintage style or opulent wedding. This set has invitations, save the date cards, response cards, thank you cards, table number tent cards, envelope seals, wine labels, binders, return address labels and more available. Use the envelope seal stickers for any of your DIY gifts - these are available in both large and small sizes!

Monday, February 17, 2014

Dance Party Invitations

Planning to get your groove on with a fun dance party?

Record Album on Pink Dance Party Invitation

 

Record Album on Pink Dance Party Invitation
Record Album on Pink Dance Party Invitation by NoteableExpressions

This cool invitation is a great way to invite your friends to your Birthday Party. The front is a faded pink with darker color blocks with a record album and music notes. On the front it says "You're invited" and your party details are on the back. 

Saturday, February 15, 2014

Wedding Planning: 8 Wedding Planning Tips to Get Organized

Ask any newlywed couple -- even couples that have been married for a long time -- and they'll all say the same thing: The key to a planning successful wedding (read: a wedding that goes smoothly, without any major glitches) is in the planning. Small things go wrong at every wedding. But keep in mind that you can save yourself from migraine headaches and crying spells by making a plan and simply sticking with it. These simple wedding planning tips will help you take some of the stress away (or at least minimize it!).

Lose the Laziness

One mistake that many couples make is basking in the glow of their engagement until 4-6 months before their wedding date. Then they try to cram all of the planning into a too-short period of time. Of course you should just sit back and be thrilled about your engagement for a while, but then you've gotta get cracking!

Buy a Calendar or Datebook

Once you determine your wedding date, set specific dates by which you want to get things accomplished. For example, you got engaged in June, and your wedding date is April 24. On August 31, mark in that you want to have the ceremony location and reception hall reserved. Try to get as much done as possible in the first few months so that the last few months won't be hectic.

Set Aside Time

Choose a day of the week when you'll focus on the wedding details, or several days if you're pressed for time. Sit down together and plan. This eliminates confusion -- i.e., the groom thinking he's supposed to call and check on hall rentals when the bride already has it narrowed down to what will suit their needs.

Share Duties

This is the best way to get things done. You both should be involved every step of the way. Make a list of details to be taken care of, then divide the list in half. Each of you choose what you want to do. This will make grooms want to be involved, instead of making them feel like they have to help. Sure, your sweetie probably isn't concerned with exactly which flowers you carry. And maybe you're not picky about what tuxedos he and the guys wear (or maybe you are!). But involving your husband-to-be will make him feel that it's his wedding, too -- something he helped plan, not just something he has to show up at. Which brings us to...

Talk, Talk, Talk

We can't stress this enough. Be sure that if you're sharing duties that you're also sharing the details. It's okay to take care of certain things by yourself, just make sure you're telling each other about it so the caterer isn't contracted with twice!

Be Flexible

Okay. So you really didn't want the groom/ushers in those tails and top hats. And maybe he doesn't want the cake to be lemon with pecan icing (!). Each of you is going to want things that the other doesn't care for, but flexibility is a must. Be willing to bend. If you really object to something, let your objection be duly heard and noted. Just give the other person a chance to explain why he/she really wants to arrive at the reception in a hot tub in the back of the limo.

Details, Contracts, and Negotiations
 
When dealing with wedding professionals (caterers, florists, etc.), be sure to clarify all the details and your expectations during the initial discussions. Make sure you get a contract specifically stating dates, times, and locations. Be sure to include what you feel is appropriate dress, and what you feel isn't. Spell out everything. Try to negotiate the best deal for goods and services, but don't sell yourself short on important things just to get a better price.
Most importantly, be sure to read the fine print on every contract before you sign it, and make sure you're aware of cancellation policies and fees. Also ask if there's a grace period to cancel just in case you change your mind or something happens and you need to postpone the wedding (you never know).

Stay Organized

This one's pretty obvious! The more organized you are, the less chance there is that something will go wrong. Buy a notebook, and keep all your wedding information in it. Receipts, contracts, ideas -- everything. You might also want to get notebooks for your maid of honor/bridesmaids and the best man. Put info such as dates, times, locations, and duties. This will keep everyone organized as well, and minimize the chance of someone missing a fitting date or rehearsal time.

Thursday, February 13, 2014

Arabian Nights in Red and Gold Home Decor

Did you know that I design gorgeous things for your home as well as invitations? Well, now ya do! :) One of the new things I'm doing in 2014 is each week I am going to choose a design to highlight with pictures! ooh la la! These are great for your own home or to give as gifts.


This weeks featured design is called Arabian Nights in Red and Gold.  This pretty design called, Arabian Nights in Red and Gold, has a rich exotic feel. This deign has a dark red to light red fabric look background. In the middle there is a wavy gold border with red paisley embellishments. This would be a beautiful addition to your home decor.



Wednesday, February 12, 2014

2014 Wedding Trend: No Instagram

Another trend for 2014? Beleive it or not -

Please Don't Instagram My Wedding

Many couples don't like the idea of guests attached to their phones throughout the ceremony and reception and are opting for unplugged weddings, a la Michael Jordan's recent wedding in Palm Beach, Florida. From providing a phone check at the door to adding a note in their wedding websites or ceremony programs asking guests to refrain from taking photos or video, couples are stepping away from social media at their weddings.


#SuperCharged Guests

This is literally the opposite of the unplugged wedding. If brides want their guests capturing the entire wedding day via a custom hashtag, they'll ensure their phones stay charged all night with charging stations at the reception. These chic charging stations don't have to look like an airport kiosk; brides are dressing up tall cocktail tables with pretty linens and having florists create small flatbeds of roses or wheatgrass with little flowers and cords popping up.

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Art Deco Posh Wedding Invitation

This beautiful and elegant design, called Art Deco Posh Wedding, has a beautiful Gatsby inspired design. The background is black with white pinstripes at the top and bottom. In the middle there is a diamond shape with a black to gray shading. At the top there is a gold filigree medallion. Across the center are more white pinstripes to highlight the add separating the bride and groom names in gold. Perfect for a 1920s vintage style or garden wedding wedding. This set has invitations, save the date cards, response cards, thank you cards, table number tent cards, envelope seals, wine labels, binders, return address labels and more available. Use the envelope seal stickers for any of your DIY gifts - these are available in both large and small sizes!

Monday, February 10, 2014

Golf Outing Invitations

With spring right around the corner (we hope!) - it is time to start planning those golf outings and fund-raisers. Here is a great invitation to get everyone excited!

Golf Outing Party Invitation

 

Golf Outing Party Invitation
Golf Outing Party Invitation by NoteableExpressions

A golfer is ready to hit the course on this Golf Outing Invitation - perfect for golf outing invitations, golf birthday party invitations, bachelor party invitations, retirement party invitations and more.


Saturday, February 8, 2014

10 Wedding Questions You Didn't Know To Ask

When should I take off my veil after the ceremony?

Everyone loves to talk about the veil, but nobody tells you exactly when to ditch it. While it's perfectly okay to wear the veil for the entire reception, there are two optimal times to take it off. The first is after the ceremony (have your hairstylist show a bridesmaid how to do this without messing up your 'do), and the second is after the first dance while your guests are eating. Once the veil's off, stick it in your bridal suite or have it "decorate" your chair.

How should our wedding party travel to the reception?

We bet you and your groom planned a perfect ceremony exit where you hop into a vintage Rolls-Royce and ride off to the reception. That sounds great, but yes, you're responsible for getting your wedding party there too. If you're going casual and want them to simply drive over, let everyone know this beforehand so they can carpool. Otherwise, rent a stretch limo, go vintage with a trolley or let them be kids again by cruising in a budget-friendly school bus -- of course, feel free to tag along for the ride!

Do I really need someone to hold my dress while I pee?

This depends on the dress. If you're wearing a full-length ball gown, you'll probably need an extra set of hands to help hold up the skirt while you do your thing. Trust us -- the cost versus the benefit on this is a no-brainer. But if you're sporting a silk sheath and a posse pee makes you cringe, go ahead and handle your own business. Another tip: There's a pee-ready Spanx designed with a hole in, well, just the right place. We'll stay classy and resist the oh-so-obvious dirty joke opportunity here.

Is there an appropriate way to kiss at the ceremony?

Remember the day he proposed, and you saw the ring and the tears in his eyes, and then you two started making out like maniacs? Yeah, don't do that. But your first kiss as a married couple doesn't have to be just a peck either. Do what comes naturally, as long as it doesn't involve visible tongue and last more than 10 seconds. Oh, and don't do the dip thing either -- unless of course you want to look like you belong in a Hugh Grant movie.

What exactly do the bride and groom do during the cake cutting?
The cake cutting typically takes place after dinner when your bandleader or DJ makes an announcement (you can also do this). If you have older guests who might be leaving early, do your cake cutting at the beginning of the reception just before the first dance. For the first cut, your groom's hands are placed over yours as you cut into the bottom layer of the cake. The groom makes the second cut solo and feeds the bride, and then it's your turn.

Where do I put my engagement ring during the ceremony?

Wear the ring on your right hand or have your aunt or grandma hold it. If you want to wear your engagement ring for the reception, put it on during the ride to your venue or just before being announced. For Jewish weddings, it's fine to wear your engagement ring, and then exchange stone-free wedding bands if you want to keep with tradition. Also remember: The band is usually worn closest to your heart on your left hand.

Who lifts my veil?

While more and more brides are wearing a veil flipped back for the entire ceremony or not wearing one at all, the most traditional bride still wears a veil over her face. If you like to keep things classic, there are two options. One is your dad lifts the veil when he gives you away, "revealing" you to the groom (like you really need help with that one). The other is for the groom to lift the veil just before the kiss.

What side are we supposed to stand on during the ceremony?

If you're in a church facing the altar, the bride stands on the left side and the groom on the right. Guests of the bride and groom should follow suit, sitting on the side of whoever they know best or are related to (hint: tell mutual friends to sit on the side that has less people). For Jewish ceremonies, it's the opposite.

What's the best way to greet guests if I don't want a receiving line?

Yeah, we get it -- you don't want to stand around after the ceremony in an assembly line. Instead, greet your guests during the reception by going from table to table during the first course. Just make sure you have time to eat too! Also, make a short speech thanking guests for coming and give a shout-out to vendors and parents (or anyone else who helped pay for your wedding!). While this moment with the mic shouldn't take the place of personal interaction with guests, it can be a great forum to let them know how much their support means to you.

Can I take my shoes off at any time during the reception?

We've all been to the wedding where guests cut loose on the dance floor and ditch the heels. But it's a little different when you're the bride -- especially if you're wearing a formal dress. Instead of going barefoot, bring a pair of flats for dancing. If you're getting married in the summer, have baskets of flip-flops in your wedding colors for your guests to slip into before they get down. There's one exception to the shoes-or-lose rule: beach weddings!

Thursday, February 6, 2014

Abstract Floral Watercolor Home Decor

Did you know that I design gorgeous things for your home as well as invitations? Well, now ya do! :) One of the new things I'm doing in 2014 is each week I am going to choose a design to highlight with pictures! ooh la la! These are great for your own home or to give as gifts.


This weeks feature is the Abstract Floral Watercolor pattern. This pretty design called, Abstract Floral Watercolor, has a sweet whimsical feel. This picture is an abstract in a peach rose color with purple and yellow accents. It resembles a flower - a close up of the center of a flower. This would be a beautiful floral addition to your home decor.

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

2014 Wedding Trend: Woodland Weddings




Weddings continue to take cues from celebrities, as well as inspiration from the fashion runways. This year, weddings are even bigger and more blown out with everything from an all-out, all-nighter wedding party to slo-mo photo booths and temporary tattoo favors. Brides and grooms will continue to weave a personal thread through their weddings, making their style true to who they are, be that rustic and natural with a woodland wedding or totally techy with a phone charging station.

One of the hottest trends this year will be:





Woodland Weddings

The big wedding theme this year looks rustic and natural with sophisticated, glam accents, like the weddings of Sean Parker and Kate Bosworth. The centerpieces are branchy and green with lots of lush flowers and a pop of sparkle. For fashion, brides will don long wedding veils and dresses with ethereal lace and floral embellishments. A fun animal motif printed on everything from the invites to the ceremony programs, escort cards and more pulls the look together.

If you are looking for country western chic wedding invitations - stop by my shop!

Tuesday, February 4, 2014

Art Deco Gold Posh Wedding Invitation

This beautiful and elegant design, called Art Deco Gold Posh Wedding, has a beautiful Gatsby inspired design. The background is cream with a thin gold and black stepped border. In the lower corners there are semi-circle design elements. At the top there is a box for text with filigree designs. Perfect for a 1920s vintage style or garden wedding wedding. This set has invitations, save the date cards, response cards, thank you cards, table number tent cards, envelope seals, wine labels, binders, return address labels and more available. Use the envelope seal stickers for any of your DIY gifts - these are available in both large and small sizes!

Monday, February 3, 2014

Time is Running Out to Order Valentine's Day Party Invitations

With just over a week until Valentine's Day - time is running out to get your Valentine's invitations out - check out these two popular invitations!

Chevron Heart Valentine's Day Party Invitation

 

Chevron Heart Valentine's Day Party Invitation
Chevron Heart Valentine's Day Party Invitation by NoteableExpressions

This fun St. Valentine's Day invitation is perfect for anyone you'd like to share your love with. This invitation has a black and white chevron stripe background with a fun red and pink heart in the center. Edit the text to fit your party!

 

Love Bites Anti-Valentine Party Invitation

 

Love Bites Anti-Valentine Party Invitation
Love Bites Anti-Valentine Party Invitation by NoteableExpressions

Who says Valentine's day has to be sweet and nice? Through your own un-Valentines day party! This invitation has a black background with red curled ribbon and red heart confetti. At the top it says Love Bites. The O in Love is replaced with a bitten heart and there is a white raven perched on the E. Edit the text to fit your party! 

Saturday, February 1, 2014

Plan a Wedding Without Losing Your Mind

Take some time.
When you first get engaged you are usually beside yourself with excitement - and rightly so! You call your parents, text your friends, post to Facebook, and start dreaming about your perfect dress. But before you start devoting your life to Pinterest boards, there are a few questions that a couple should ask themselves: What kind of people are you and your fiance? Do you love formal affairs, or are you more comfortable at casual gatherings? Who will be on your guest list - mostly old college friends or extended family members? These are the kinds of decisions that come first because they will determine the tone and even the setting of your wedding. Then you can begin to think about how you want your day to look. Flip through lots of magazines - not just bridal ones - and see what speaks to you style-wise. Even thinking about why you love the restaurants you do will help you shape your vision.

Make a budget.
Money is never a fun topic, but you have to know how much you can spend before you start reserving a 15-piece reception band. Once you both decide on your budget your options for your venue, vendors, and style will be much clearer. After that, if you are like most couples, you'll have to choose between having a smaller wedding with every thing you have ever dreamed of, or a larger event that means cutting out some extras like a photo booth or swans in the fountain.

Ponder working with a planner.
If you don't enjoy negotiating with vendors, handling contracts, or troubleshooting problems - a planner can handle all of this for you. If a planner is completely out of the question, maybe an on-site coordinator could help you make sure everything runs according to schedule the day of.

Select your setting.
Picking your venue is the hardest part of the puzzle - everything else will fall in to place once you have your venue like your catering and decor. Since many popular spaces can get booked up to a year in advance, you wil want to decide on your location and date as soon as possible. Choosing a site also means you will know whether you have to order tent rentals, extra bathrooms, and the like, which also affects your overall budget.