I'm No Dior...

...but how do you like the blog's new look? Thank you to Julian for the great 3-column tutorial! Also, I've made it even easier to share your favorite posts using Share It. Now you can link it to your blog, email it, Digg It, link it to Facebook...whatever your little heart desires. Pretty nice, eh? Have a great weekend!

Make Do and Mend with the Shoreditch Sisters WI (Pt. 2)

Make Do and Mend with the Shoreditch Sisters WI

What a FANTASTIC group of ladies with one of the best ideas I've seen in ages. Why doesn't Columbus have a group like this yet? You know me...I'm all about repurposing, reusing and refashioning. Another thing I love about this social club? Women getting together to help, support and befriend one another. I don't know about you, but I don't spend enough time making friends. This seems to me like a great opportunity to make friends AND cool stuff. That's win-win! All you Columbus ladies out there...let me know if you'd be interested in getting together for our own Make Do Mend session!

Posted using ShareThis

Make do and mend: clothes rationing during WW2 (Pt. 1)

Make do and mend: clothes rationing during WW2

What a gem of a story. We all could use a lesson from the ladies of wartime Britain.

Posted using ShareThis

New C-Bus Magazine: Capital Style & More Food Adventures

So...who else has feasted their eyes on the debut issue of Capital Style? My mom gave me hers and let me just say "Wow!" I love it! Not only do they feature some of my fav-o spots around town (Hello Betty's & Jeni's), they give nods to Rue de Lily in Powell (kick butt store owned by a super cool lady) and so so many more.

And are you ready for the kicker?

Banana Bean Cafe's Bananas Foster French Toast recipe is in the back *squee*

I was literally just gushing about how out-of-this-world it is with some dear friends, over dinner at Betty's this past Monday. It is Shut Your Mouth kinda good. Rumor has it they're still running into some wonky hours, though...but it's worth it if you can catch them open!

For three days in a row, D. and I dined out...isn't that fantastic? First Betty's, then my amazing "home chef" sister had us over for a Mardi Gras feast of bourbon chicken, dirty rice, sausage stuffed mushrooms and key lime pie. Did I mention it was all from scratch? She amazes me.

Then last night, we met up with my foodie uncle for an outstanding dinner at Diaspora Korean restaurant on campus. Let me just say...the Sexy Cowboy roll may have been the finest tempura sushi roll I've ever had. And it was BEAUTIFUL! Of course, I had no camera (boo) so all of the food porn shots were missed, but seriously. If you can, go. It was hella hella yum.

Centerpiece Schmenterpiece

I'm feeling generally uninspired about the flowers for our wedding. We can't settle on colors, flowers or even how to present them. It's not that I don't have my favorite blooms (hello, ranunculus!) Even though I spend countless hours looking at stunning centerpieces online, nothing is jumping out at me for us really...and I feel strangely compelled to use our (almost reserved) reception space's available hurricane/candle centerpiece with something like a flower ring. Yes...it's a little old-fashioned, but that's almost why I think I like it. Here's a few not-too-horrible samples (with different flower colors, of course.) See? No baby's breath in sight! Could look good with our gold plate chargers too, don't you think?

{Courtesy: Unknown}

{Courtesy: Unknown}

Another option we're considering is something like a fab-o vintage hobnail vase with a mix of greenery and flowers (similar to this image but perhaps a bit darker or brighter, given that it's a evening wedding in November.)

{Courtesy: The Knot}

{Courtesy: Unknown}

Lastly...we're also considering taking on the task of buying bulk flowers and sticking them into some sort of vase and calling it a day. For this, I am a fan of these flowers:

Orange Ranunculus
{Courtesy Panacea Flowers}

Leonidas Bi-color Rose
{Courtesy Rain Florist Designs}

Oh jeesh (as D. would say.) What to do, what to do...

Gifts for Sassy Gals

There are the kind of bridesmaids who uphold the sanctity of all things truly and gloriously girly. Then you have my sister. She doesn't 'do' girly. No grosgrain ribbon bows, fuzzy pink robes, pearl earrings...nada. She's just not a girly girl, but she's not a tomboy either. She's fiercely feminine, just not in a J. Crew ribbon belt sort of way. More like femme fatale...she's equally as likely to let you buy her a cocktail as start a bar fight. Ok, well, maybe that's going a little far, but you catch my drift.

I know that lots of us brides-to-be love our sassy bridesmaids, but what on earth do you get a gal like that? Seriously. A monogrammed canvas bag full of chocolates and bath fizzies is great, but probably won't properly thank her or celebrate her unique friendship in any way, shape or form. We need something with some punch! Here are a few of my favorite things...

Let's Have a Cocktail Flask
{Courtesy: Anne Taintor}

Classic Tattoo Stamp Set
{Courtesy: Bombshell Stamps}

{Courtesy: LovMely}

{Courtesy: BettyTurbo}

Inspiration: A Pink + Yellow Lemonade Wedding

{Top L to R: Martha Stewart, Smitherman & Barnwell, Monique Lhuillier}
{Center : all courtesy Martha Stewart}
{Bottom: Martha Stewart, Leaf Print Impressions, Martha Stewart}

I am ready for spring, there's no doubt about it. Tulips, daffodils, fresh grass, chirpy birds and pink lemonade...the inspiration for this color board! To me, few things are more cheerful than a pink and yellow wedding palette. Perfect for the warmer months (and they're just around the corner!) this cheerful color combination would compliment an informal garden party wedding, a summery soiree or a fabulous bridal shower. Look to nature for creative clues on decorations, too -- fresh cut flowers in vintage vases and bowls of lemons both can make bold statements when playing the role of a table centerpiece.

Exciting CPSIA Update!

I thought I'd share with you an update on the CPSIA I received via the Amy Butler newsletter. It's fantastic news to know that our collective voice has been heard and the law has been delayed a year for review. By no means does this mean we should get quiet now, though. Keep writing your legislators and sign those petitions! Do not let small business crafters and handmade items become a thing of the past -- support handmade products and push for amendments to the CPSIA!

(via the Amy Butler newsletter:)

EXCITING CPSIA UPDATE!

Good news: the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a Stay of Enforcement of Testing and Certification Requirements for the recently introduced Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA). The law, which was to go into effect on February 10, 2009, has been delayed for one year. On February 10, 2010, the CPSC will vote to terminate the stay. At that time the CPSC should have a more defined set of rules and regulations for this law.

According to the CPSC statement: "We believe at this time that the stay will give us the time needed to develop sound rules and requirements as well as implement outreach efforts to explain these requirements of the CPSIA and their applicability."

It seems all the hard work from caring souls around the country has started to pay off! It is wonderful to see that although separately we are all small, together we have the powerful voice. Although this is great news for crafters and small businesses everywhere, we shouldn't stop sharing our opinions. Please continue to sign the petitions and write to your legislators - while they are in this decision-making process, our feedback is more important than ever. See my "new" button at www.amybutlerdesign.com for links to important information on this issue.

Thank you all for your continued support and friendship!

Happy, Happy Sewing!

XO - Amy

In Memory of...

As we continue to near our wedding day, I can't help but think of all of the truly amazing people in my life who have passed, including my dad last year. It sucked. There isn't much else I can say without getting really sad, but knowing that my dad can't walk me down the aisle gets me a little choked up (to say the least.) I miss him every, single day but try to maintain a healthy perspective on life and death, how quickly life passes and how each day should be a day to cherish. This is it for us -- no trial runs here people, so make the most of it!

Even though D. didn't know my dad well (he lived in another state and we simply didn't get together as often as we'd have liked), I am so thankful for D. asking my dad permission to marry me. I know that my dad knew, deep down, that we'd get married one day. After all, D. made a promise to my dad that he'll always keep. To me, it doesn't get much more special than that.

To honor my dad, not only did we pick a very special day to get married (November 13 was the anniversary of my parents' first date and also the date he proposed to my mom), I've found a way to have my dad with me when I walk down that aisle -- as a photo inside a locket pinned to my bouquet wrap. I got this mint vintage locket brooch off of eBay for about $7-8 with shipping. I thought the colored cabochons would be beautiful against any flowers, too. I would've loved a vintage heirloom, but there were none to be found in the family. Now I'll have my own and maybe it will become an heirloom in my new little family. I love that idea.

D. and I have quite a few other special people for whom we'd like to honor at our ceremony. One idea I like is a memorial vase with a flower for each person with a small name tag on each, all placed in a vase at the altar. Simple, but thoughtful. I thought it would be fitting to move it to the reception and place it on the escort card or guest book table, too. Here's something with the same premise, but I'm thinking no baby's breath, less greenery, would need more flowers and dress up the vase a bit.

{Courtesy NeckersPhoto.com}

I love the idea of setting up a photograph display, too. Perhaps we could do both? Would that be too much? Is there such a thing?

{Courtesy: The Knot}

We're also definitely including something in our wedding programs, but that almost goes without saying, as it's the least we could do to remember such important people.

How did you (or do you plan to) honor the memories of your loved ones at your wedding?

YUM! Baklava

{Courtesy Wiki...yours will look way tastier than this!}

This recipe makes the most amazing baklava and where's the fun of keeping it to myself? Happy Sunday! Serves about 18 servings (but depends on how large you cut the pieces)

*My notes on the recipe are in red

Ingredients

1 (16 ounce) package phyllo dough
1 pound chopped nuts
1 cup butter
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup water
1 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup honey

Directions
1 Preheat oven to 350 degrees F(175 degrees C). Butter the bottoms and sides of a 9x13 inch pan.

2 Chop nuts and toss with cinnamon. (The more finely you chop, the better it tastes. It's worth the extra effort) Set aside. Unroll phyllo dough. (The phyllo dough can be a pain. When it's frozen, if you try to unroll it, it can break into these long little slivers of dough that are almost unuseable. I normally thaw mine out in the fridge for a little while, just to warm it up a bit from hard frozen before I try to roll it out. Be sure to roll it out gently!) Cut whole stack in half to fit pan. Cover phyllo with a dampened cloth to keep from drying out as you work. (Just don't let it get too wet or it gets sticky.) Place two sheets of dough in pan, butter thoroughly. (One thing I've done is melt the butter and brush it on. Works wonders to get it even.) Repeat until you have 8 sheets layered. Sprinkle 2 - 3 tablespoons of nut mixture on top. Top with two sheets of dough, butter, nuts, layering as you go. The top layer should be about 6 - 8 sheets deep.

3 Using a sharp knife cut into diamond or square shapes all the way to the bottom of the pan. You may cut into 4 long rows the make diagonal cuts. (Here's where you can get more, smaller servings from one pan. Cut now, if you can, because cutting after just isn't as easy.) Bake for about 50 minutes until baklava is golden and crisp.

4 Make sauce while baklava is baking. Boil sugar and water until sugar is melted. Add vanilla and honey. Simmer for about 20 minutes.

5 Remove baklava from oven and immediately spoon sauce over it. Let cool. (WOW does it smell good!) Serve in cupcake papers. This freezes well. Leave it uncovered as it gets soggy if it is wrapped up.

Only 190 More Things To Do!

I really wish our To Do Checklist on The Knot didn't say we had 190 more tasks to complete for our wedding. Sigh. I get exhausted just reading the list, let alone doing the tasks! I actually catch myself wanting to cheat and check off things that aren't *quite* finished yet. Aren't I terrible? That's how much I want a website to validate all of the hard work that we're doing. How embarrassing. I should be ashamed...but I'm not really :) It'll all get done...because I am fanatical about having work left undone. And even if it doesn't? We're still getting married! Just have to keep reminding myself...can't sweat the details...can't sweat the details...can't sweat the details...

This is really what I wish the To Do list said:

1. Show up to church
2. Get married
3. Kiss, hug and smile a lot
4. Thank family & friends
5. Live and love happily ever after (or at least most of the time.)

The Engagement

{The happy couple}

It recently occurred to me that I haven't shared anything on our engagement!

Here's the story...along with some photos from our engagement "photo shoot" (courtesy of my fabulous sister/MoH!)

August 2008. D. and I took a weekend to spend at my grandparent's old house on Lake Erie where I grew up. After work on Friday, we drove up, went to the beach, had dinner, relaxed and prepared for a great Saturday in the sunshine. The next day, we swam, sunbathed, snacked, then went back to the house to get cleaned up for dinner on Put-In-Bay. My uncle and cousins were at the house for the weekend too, so we said our hellos and walked to the Miller Ferry - a gorgeous coastal walk from the house. The weather was perfect, the ferry ride romantic and nostalgic. We had a blast at PIB, pizza at Frosty's, a beer and billiards at Tony's, a little shopping, then took the last ferry back.

{And he proposed to me when I looked like that...now that's love!}

It was already dark by the time we docked, so we stopped for ice cream cones and started the walk home. It was one of those perfect summer's nights. The mosquitoes weren't biting, there was a slight breeze off of Lake Erie and you could see every star laid against the velvety blue sky. We were just walking past Bolte's Beach, which is a beach without sand, but rather has a beach made of smooth rocks. D. suggested we stop off and throw rocks into the lake. We walked down in the dark and looked for good skipping stones or ones that would make a good splash. After about 15 minutes or so, he says to me, "Hey, look. I found you a good rock." And as I turned to see him in the moonlight, I saw the ring box in his hand. I said, "Is that what I think it is?" And he said, "Yes...do you want it?" I said yes with a big, nervous smile on my face and then he asked, "Will you marry me?" I freaked out and said yes and we hugged and laughed and then I opened the box and put on my amazing engagement ring. There were lots of happy tears, too! (Honestly, I was a blubbering fool, but there was no controlling that surge of emotion!) That was the most magical night, that perfect summer night on Lake Erie.

{Miller Ferry dock, Put-in-Bay. Lake Erie}

{Gratuitous ring shot}

And Now For Something Completely Different

Wink the Cat went to the vet today because she has groomed herself almost completely bald on one side of her body over the last few weeks. Being a domestic long-hair tuxedo, it's pretty easy to notice the spotty blueish skin against black fur, let me tell you what. Now, I have to preface this story a bit more. Wink does not like people. Not at all. Honestly, she has barely tolerated us for the last nine-ish years. And she really doesn't like vets. She's can be a holy terror anti-Christ when she wants to be. Just ask the vets when she was spayed -- a tornado of claws and teeth and she was just a lil kitty then. Guess what! She hasn't outgrown it...and so the story continues...

Worried sick that something was wrong, we got her into Ohio State's Vet Clinic this afternoon. She surprisingly went into her carrier very easily. This should've been a sign for impending doom, but I took it as a sign of good luck and went with it. Upon speaking to the Senior vet student in charge of Wink's diagnosis, I warned her over and over, trying desperately to reiterate how not nice Wink can be. After several minutes of her not really beliving me (really..how much trouble can a 7-lb, ten year old cat be, right?) I told her, "Listen. I'm really sorry for what's about to happen." She politely nodded and off I went back to the waiting room. D. met me and we waited and waited and still no word. All they were supposed to do is get a blood sample and it was taking a long time. Finally, the student vet came out...with trepedation. We knew she believed us now. Her words? "How do you feel about sedation?" I laughed and signed the waiver. What I really wanted to ask her is how she felt about it...after all, it wasn't ME in the room with one, angry feline!

Long story short, after the first run of blood results taken for a geriatric pre-screen (I still can't believe she's almost ten years told) we met with the vet and student vet who were almost in disbelief of the legend that Wink had made herself. Several hours later, her results were back and abnormal, not for the kidney issues they were considering, but for a strange anomaly with her blood (something about a component of her white blood cells being insanely low.)

They asked us to bring her back (while still under slight sedation) to pull another blood sample (before she has another opportunity to go completely bonkers.) It's a super quick trip and about 15 minutes later, we were on our way home again. Another 30 minutes after that, they called with the good news -- she has a clean bill of health and systemically, she's perfectly healthy. But what about the bald spots, right? She has been diagnosed as having disorder called psychogenic alopecia (aka compulsive overgrooming.) This can happen for a number of reasons... because she's bored, understimulated or sort of obsessive-compulsive. Sheesh! Wink's always been a strange kitty, so we're not enitrely shocked, but ultimately relieved that nothing is seriously wrong. She now will be perscribed an antidepressant (I'm being serious) and we'll have to take steps at home to play more, not reinforce the behavior and provide her healthy distractions when we're at work.

I guess we just have to get used to the idea that our consistently neurotic-yet-beautiful fraidy cat will be a balding geriatric on kitty Prozak, potentially for the rest of her life. What a weird day...

Take A Seat

I love wedding paperstuffs. Look at these darling escort or seating card ideas, for example. They are so clever! How can one not smile? Oh, I can't wait to start making things! All of this planning is so...essential. Bring on the card stock and glue sticks, I'm ready for some DIY!! *squee*

{Top L to R: Dragonfly Couture Stationery, Lovely Design}
{Bottom L to R: Martha Stewart, unknown, Martha Stewart}

Bombshell Beauty *COMING SOON!*

{Courtesy Alberto Vargas via Allposters.com}

Who doesn't love a little beauty advice now and again? Sure, we all don't always put on our best face forward, so to speak, but we all know a thing or two about a thing or two, right? Right!

To celebrate all things helping us all becoming beautimus maximus, I'm going to be posting a feature every month or so called Bombshell Beauty. This will be a culmination of all things beauty (both vintage and modern)...hair, make-up, nails -- going to dabble a little upon it all. Have an old-fashioned remedy for sore feet or a recipe for an organic face masque? Let me know and I'll post it! After all, it's all about celebrating our inner bombshell!

Who knows? Maybe I can talk my fantastic sister into sharing tips and tricks on hair care! (Did I mention she's the most talented hair stylist and colorist I've ever known?)

Keep an eye out, ladies (and gents, too, of course)...Bombshell Beauty will drop March 1st!

Inspiration Board: Small Town Charming

{Courtesy Chasing the Frog}

For the longest time, I dreamed of a wedding that looked like the scene in Big Fish where Edward Bloom (Ewan McGregor) and the little girl are walking in the grass towards the happy little town blanketed in twinkle lights. It's so...magical. Maybe it strikes a chord in me because I grew up in a small town myself? Who knows. All I know is that there is a true charm to small towns and only someone who's lived in one and moved away truly appreciates it.

This wedding board is for everyone who loves the charm of small towns and good old-fashioned nostalgia.

{Top L to R: Alyssa Ettingter via OnceWed, Red Apple Images via Offbeat Bride, Beth Bowley Seersucker Dress via Nortstrom}
{Center L to R: MillerMicro, Flickr, Hillcrest Merchants Association, unknown}
{Bottom L to R: Town of Banff, Project Wedding, unknown}

Outdoor Wedding Idea: Feather Flags

The other day, I watched Branagh's 2007 version of Shakespeare's As You Like It. Though I really wanted to like the movie better than I had, the multiple wedding scene at the very end made it worth my while. The weddings had a distinctly Japanese flavor (as the story was based in 19th-century Japan) and took place in the forest. As a backdrop to the ceremonies, loads of these huge white vertical banners with long red ribbon streamers were stuck into the ground. It was so visually striking, it was hard not to love. All I kept thinking was how fantastic that would look as a backdrop to a real outdoor wedding!

{Courtesy: HBO}

Here are a couple banner-style wedding flags (also known as 'feather flags') very similar to those shown in the wedding scene. I love the first photograph shown below. Wouldn't these make a strikingly original backdrop for your wedding ceremony? I like them because it is an alternative to an arbor or archway requiring loads of flowers or greenery that will only end up being used once and then die. That seems so wasteful to me -- and this is entirely more original, your guests will never forget it and will make fantastic photos.

{Courtesy: Fun Kites}

{Courtesy: Tag Events Australia}

Frequently used for advertisements or commercial promotion, feather banners are available in loads of colors and styles - everything from custom-printed banners to solid colors, if white isn't what you're after. I think a collection of red banners would be amazing, as would a bright color like yellow for a nautical or beach wedding. Just like the movie, I think the addition of brightly colored ribbon streamers to white feather banners would look great, too. Perhaps they line a long driveway, boogie in the wind bordering the dance floor, diffuse a setting sun along the beachfront...the possibilities and applications are nearly endless.

OK, Really...Plus, A Really Cool Gift

The contest prize doesn't have cooties, folks.

Where is the comment love? The giveaway only lasts until 11:59 tonight, so it's looking like the odds are definitely in someone's favor!

Check this out...How adorable would this fantastic Not A Paper Cup look with that awesome wool felt cozy wrapped around it?

I love a Not A Paper Cup. It's a ceramic cup with a silicone lid, same shape as a to-go coffee cup, but way less evil. Sip your java, hug a tree and reduce post-consumer waste all at the same time. A trifecta! This makes a really solid gift for someone who has everything, too -- OR how about a unique gift for your bridal party? Something that they'll use over and over, much unlike the dangle earrings or bath products you considered (and the gents would love it, too.) Plus it has super high cool factor.

It's on SALE at Amazon, too! Get it here!

{Courtesy: Amazon.com}

Happy Valentine's Day!

Even if you're a bit of a cynic (like myself, quite often) and don't get into celebrating Valentine's Day, everyone can celebrate this cake, sent over to me by pal over at the HennHouse. (Side note: If you haven't visited lately, be sure to check out what's happening over at the HennHouse. Her kids say the sweetest things on the planet...like, melt-your-heart kinda cute!)

Mama Henn is a fantastic baker and is a fan of the Cake Wrecks blog. I hadn't ever visited it before, but oh my. It's hilarious! What a mess. If you've never visited it before, go right now. I can't even find the words for some of the cakes. Seriously. Feet Cake. I can't make this stuff up! Each Sunday, they have a feature called Sunday Sweets, where they show off some super cutie cakes to mix things up a bit. She shared with me this darling cake...

{Courtesy: Cake Wrecks}

So, needless to say, I'm a little partial to this adorable vintage-inspired cake encrusted with M&M's. Seriously high cute factor going on here. Just enough kitsch for me, too. I wish I were clever enough to have come up with it myself!

My advice for today is to feel inspired to go bake something, treat yourself to your own confection and have a day to yourself filled with minor but fantastic self-indulgences like a glass of wine in a bubblebath or buy yourself some pretty flowers. There's no rule saying that you can't eat a whole box of chocolate alone, either. I won't judge! And lastly, don't wait for someone to do something for you just because it's February 14th or sulk if/when nothing magical happens. Magic is all relative anyway, so get off your hiney and go do something for yourself to make your day a little brigher. It's Saturday, for goodness sake! That's reason enough to me to celebrate!

1+1=1 (aka Unity)

Though I normally embrace most wedding traditions, one thing I just can't get into is the unity candle. To me, it's become cliche and has lost the power behind the symbolism for which it stood. While I knew it would not be something we included in our marriage ceremony, I want to do something...but what to do?

With a little investigation, I found quite a few appealing alternatives to the unity candle phenom. Granted, some aren't great for our particular wedding, but I thought I'd share the options I've found, just in case you too are looking for a different symbol of unification for your ceremony. Have any other cool ideas or nuggets of your culture's tradition that you'd like to share? Please share the love!

{Courtesy Your Wedding Store}

Ah yes, the unity sand ceremony. I think it is the most popular alternative to the unity candle, but wow. That poor sand is sincerely abused. One itty bitty piece of advice? Please. Don't use bright colored sand. It's too garish and tacky for a wedding. I don't care if it matches your wedding colors, it's ugly and looks like a 5-year-old's art project. Yes, I said it because no one else would (aside from maybe David Tutera.) Fear not, dear brides-to-be! Look at the lovely sand option above. Yes, it's still sand, but it's chic sand (and if there's such a thing, this has to be it.) If you insist on sand, try to stick to the neutrals. They just look better (unless you are going for garish, then embrace your inner kindergartner!) Also to note, sand is best used for beach and outdoor weddings..unless you are really ridiculously careful and/or use a funnel..need I say more?

{Courtesy: RevSingleton.com}

My wine-making and loving grandfather would roll over in his grave with this one...
Yes, darlings. The mixing together of red and white wine and then drinking it. Clearly, not for vino connoisseurs, but it has a unique quality to it. Would be perfect for a vineyard or wine country wedding, n'est pas?

{Courtesy: NCBuy.com}

Personally, I think this is pretty, wedding-appropriate and isn't messy. I'm a fan. And who says you have to stick to red and white roses? Heck, maybe you have kids -- stick a couple pink ones in to represent your wee tots to include them in a special way.

{Courtesy: Leis of Hawaii}

I like the powerful simplicity of the lei exchange in a wedding. Rich in cultural significance, it would add beauty to any beach or Hawaiian wedding. This ceremony presents a great opportunity to work in symbolism of certain colors and your wedding colors, too.

{Courtesy: jwatkins.org}

"Tying the Knot" or handfasting is an ancient unity ritual and, despite popular belief, it is not only for Ren Faire or Wiccan weddings, though popular at both. Handfasting has a very interesting history (read a short version here.) Fr. Sean from Saint Colman of Lindisfarne Celtic Catholic Church Riverside, California puts it in perspective, "Hand-fasting is a symbol used in Celtic and other cultures to express marriage. It is non-religion-specific, meaning it is not pagan or Christian. It is just human. The symbol can be used by anybody, since it expresses part of the reality of matrimony." I couldn't agree more, Padre.

First Ever Lucky 13 Giveaway! {closed}

{Contest is closed and even though there was no "official" winner, the prize is going to one very deserving coffee drinker :) }

In honor of being exactly 9 months away from my wedding date and it being one of this year's other Friday the 13ths (there are 3, neat eh?), I thought I would give you all a chance to win a fun little prize! All you have to do is leave a comment on this post telling me a little something you like about my blog -- a favorite post, a funny quote, a great link, anything will do. That's it! Easy Peasy!

Curious about what you could win? I bet you are! How about what you see here (sans prop cup, of course.)

How about ditching those cardboard coffee cup sleeves for a super duper wool felt to-go coffee cup cozy (handmade by yours truly) AND two sets of note cards with envelopes? Aren't they darling? The notecards are a chic pink and green houndstooth print and a fun multicolor polkadot. The cozy is tan with a red heart, 2-ply, both hand and machine stitched and fits most to-go cups. Just a bit of color to brighten someone's day!

Here's the rules: The contest starts now (as soon as this post was, um, posted) and ends at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, February 15th, 2009 so get crackin'! Only one comment per person, please. Sometime on Monday, I'll use new-fangled technology to generate a random number based on the total number of posts. (I'll number the posts as 1 being the first, 'oldest' post, increasing by 1 by each post..ending with the newest post as the highest number.) Whichever number is generated is the winner! I'll post the winning number and name, if available, then the winner will email me to work out the rest of the details, like where to mail it to and all that good stuff.

GOOD LUCKY DUCKY!

DIY Felt Fruit & Buckeye Buddy Blankie

{Front to back, left to right: fried egg, 2 pieces of bacon, 2 pancakes, syrup with
pats of butter, 2 iced sugar cookies, frosted pastry with strawberry, 3 ravioli, green apple,
removable peel banana, red apple, 2 slices bread, 1 slice cheese, 1 leaf lettuce,
1 slice lunch meat, head of lettuce, carrot, prezel, peanut butter & jelly}

D's been on me about posting about the gift I made his 2-year-old neice Lily for Christmas. It was a whole felt grocery bag filled with plush felt fruit! She has an active imagination, but was in desperate need of some food options for her play kitchen. Voila! A plethora of options for a foodie-in-training! Everything was made using felt (both wool and polyester), Poly-fil, hand and machine sewing and embroidery floss for some detailing (avoiding small things kids may eat, like beads.)

 This past Christmas was a big one for DIY. I also made my best friend's baby boy a Brutus Buckeye buddy blanket from felt and soft fleece (it's a little security blanket.) The facial features were fused together using fusable webbing and hand sewn together for added safety.

I made scarves and a huge scarlet & gray fleece blanket, too, but I'm not sure I have photos of those...if I can find some, I'll post them later :)

Write This Way

I love the kind of weddings where the guests know how to get to where they're supposed to be and are not left wandering around like lost cattle because parking was unclear or there were unmarked paths to the ceremony, reception or restrooms. Those are situations best avoided and that kind of planning takes forethought and a little DIY ingenuity.

Perhaps I'm just a lover of details, but I honestly appreciate when my host makes me feel like my presence is appreciated and recognized with little things like great directions or clearly marked signage. With regard to weddings in particular, it makes me feel like the bride & groom cared enough about me, as their guest, to make things as easy and comfortable as possible. It doesn't take much and always leaves a positive, lasting impression.

Regardless of what kind of wedding you're having, making things easier on your guests by properly pointing them in the right direction is always greatly appreciated, though I think clear wayfinding is an essential for any outdoor wedding ceremony or reception. Without floorplans and maitre d's to assist, the more clear your paths and signs should be at your outdoor celebration.

Get creative! These folks lit, pointed out and prettied paths to important wedding spots -- not only do these darling directions look fantastic, they work like a charm.

{Left: Delightful Details via Handcrafted Wedding. Center: Flowers By Design. Right: Woman on Safari}
{Left: David Wittig Photography. Right: Joe Behymer's Wedding}

Foodie Review: Z Pizza

D. and I had Z Pizza in the Short North (next to North Star Cafe around High and 2nd. (Just in case any of you darling readers aren't from Columbus, the Short North is the heart of urban art galleries, funky boutiques and glorious food options -- a MUST-visit neighborhood for anyone visiting C-bus.)

We thought we'd give (relatively new) pizza parlor Z Pizza a try because they offer a per slice option. I love my pizza and have particular favorites, but it just so happens that my favorite isn't open on Sundays, so in walks Z Pizza. It's a snazzy little franchise originating in California, featuring organic ingredients and a great crust.

We both tried the same slices -- the ZBQ and pepperoni. With a coupon we had, we ordered the Napoli as well.

The ZBQ was delish -- their version of a BBQ chicken pizza with sweet yellow corn and heaps more stuff all piled on. The roasted red pepper was especially tasty. The BBQ sauce they used was sweet too...a bit like Sweet Baby Ray's. Good stuff.

The Pepperoni was pretty good, bot not great. Sort of Meh. Of course, I ate it all, though, so I guess that's all that matters!

The Napoli is their margherita pizza and is really good. Basil, nice slices of tomato, a hint of garlic and fresh mozzarella -- I'm a fan. I'm pretty sure it was D's favorite, though we think it has something to do with it being fresh out of the oven and piping hot. The other slices were sort of...warm. I think I'd especially like the pepperoni pizza if it were right out of the oven.

Rating: A- I'll try it again. They have a great looking menu and some of the pizzas look intruiging.

The Dapper Man

{Courtesy The Costumer's Manifesto}

I will be the first to admit how much I love the look of a man in a suit, tux or jacket and tie. There is something inherently sophisticated about a man who knows how to properly dress himself for a formal occasion. Today, it's almost appalling how casually people dress in situations which traditionally dictate a more formal approach to dress (like church, a nice dinner out, live theater, a wedding, a funeral, office events, interviews, etc.) The not-so-polite part of me wants to walk up to said offender (wearing jeans, more often than not), thump them on the head, make them watch Casablanca and take them to buy a decent suit, shirt, tie and shoes. By the way, those are four items that every man above the age of 25 should own -- not a hand-me-down version from your dad, but a suit that fits you properly. I care not if it's new or vintage, but it must fit. Nothing kills the look quicker than an ill-fitting suit. And for the love of above, please learn how to tie a tie! Clip-ons are deplorable.

To make things a bit easier, here's a list of must-have items for every man's wardrobe. Print it and take it with you, along with the visual aides provided. I promise it will make your shopping experience more efficient and less painful (as I sympathize with the commonly male disdain for shopping.) Of course, there are many more fantastic ways to customize your look, but these are simply the foundations to help one get started. Consider this your shove in the right direction, dolls. The ladies of the world will thank you!

1. A Well-Fitting Suit in a good neutral color, such as black, dark gray navy or a subtle pinstripe. Dark brown is gaining popularity but should not be a replacement for a good black or gray suit. Additionally, very few men can pull of a double-breasted suit. Best to stick with a 2-3 button, single-breast cut, but look into more modern 4-5 button suits if they appeal to you. As for trousers, please avoid front pleating. Unless you are tall and thin, they simply do not flatter.

{Courtesy Ramee Suit Factory}

2. A Dress Shirt - If your shirt has french cuffs, make sure you have a pair of cuff links! Don't go for crazy colors or patterns if you don't already own a white or similar light-colored dress shirt. Keep it simple and change it up with different ties if need be.

{Courtesy The Southern Gentleman Menswear}

3. An Undershirt - Acts like a barrier between your new dress shirt and sweaty skin. Also helps to create a smoother line for your shirts. If you don't want to wear a short-sleeved version, wear a tank version (aka 'wifebeater'.) Also, please make sure that it is plain white, pocketless, the collar is not fraying and it fits you well (read: not too big, bunchy under your dress shirt.) Additionally, normal crew cuts or v-necks are fine. Some folks debate whether or not one should see the collar of a crew-neck style. Not me, I care way more that you just have one on. I'm going to be brutal here. No one wants to see anything -- sweaty spots, tufts of hair or lumps and bumps of any kind -- please just wear one. Don't ask why, just do it. It's for the greater good, trust me. You think you can get away with not wearing one and think that people won't notice ? Wrong. We notice everything.{Courtesy Fresh Pair}

4. A Tie - This can be of the bow or straight tie variety, depending on personal preference, and both can look dapper with the right ensemble. Crazy novelty ties do not apply here. If you aren't sure if it looks nice paired with your suit and dress jacket, go for a nice solid silk tie. You simply cannot go wrong there and nearly any color will work. Subtle tone-on-tone color prints look nice, as well as bright "college" diagonal stripes if you're going for a more preppy and less continental look. If you aren't sure how to tie your new necktie, check out Gentleman Joe's walkthrough on several classic tie options.

{Courtesy: Black Tie Guide}

5. Dress Shoes - Black is a safe place to start. Avoid patent unless you're wearing a tux (which is an entirely different post.) Go for something with a bit of shine, that looks nice polished. Black calf skin is a personal favorite and hits many different price points. Slip-on, tie or bootie - you can throw a bit of originality into your look with a funky shoe or complete a classic with a great wing-tip. The choice is yours.{Courtesy Shoes.com}

6. A Dress Belt or Suspenders (or Braces) - Some men prefer one over the other. If you tend to never wear belts, suspenders are a viable alternative and can look fantastic. Now, I'm not talking the elastic Mork suspenders with the little metal clips, here gents. Suspenders should be worn without a belt, be made of silk and have button holes. Subsequently, your dress slacks should have buttons (any good tailor can add buttons, so it's really a non-issue.) Keep in mind, the color of your suspenders should compliment your dress shirt and tie, but not match them exactly. (Very few things get my heart aflutter like a suit with suspenders. Completely dashing!)

{Courtesy CTM via Amazon.com}

Fancy a belt instead? Go with a simple, medium width leather with a basic buckle in your preferred finish (silver or gold-tone) and color to match your shoes. Again, if we're talking a black or gray suit, a black belt and shoes make the most sense. Beige or brown suit, brown shoes and belt. Navy suit? Go with black shoes and belt. It won't be as distracting as brown. A great investment is a reversible dress belt. Calvin Klein makes a great one (shown below.)

{Courtesy Calvin Klein}

7. Dress socks. Please, save your white athetic socks for the gym and go with something with a bit of style. Dark dress socks look great with a dark suit and make it an "non issue." Feeling like you want to make a sock statement? Try a snappy argyle!

{Courtesy J. Crew}

8. A Handkerchief. Every gentleman I know has a handkerchief. Just when you don't think you'll need it, you will. The teary-eyed dame you're sitting next to will appreciate it, too -- just be sure it's clean before you offer it to her!

{Courtesy J&R Designs}

Happy shopping!