Some of my favorites from the week…

1. This cake: Salt Harbor

2. These flower girls photographed by Float Away Studios

3. This bride photographed by Jonas Peterson,

4. These rings that make cute gifts by Terilee Jewelry on Etsy

I have been spending hours perusing the internet, catching up on my favorite blogs, discovering new ones… Trying to get a feel for what’s out there, and what needs to be out there . I wanted to share a few things I came across that peaked my interest!

Photography by Michael Gaydon: What great inspiration for you winter brides! Cotton plants…. I love this idea. I’ll have to do some research on how you get your hands on these if you don’t happen to live near a cotton field, but hey…it’s inspiration. And how awesome would it be to have a winter engagement session with those horses! Can’t you just see it- a couple with all their winter accessories…walking through the snow, leading their horses. Another with the guy helping the girl off the horse. Another with them roasting marshmallows… I could go on.

Whit & Whistle: This blog is full of all sorts of goodness. These diy crafts were particularly interesting. Amanda created a chalkboard platter, chalkboard mug, and this stenciled pillow. Someone please stencil me a pillow one with my favorite love song lyrics. I want one bad!

Friendship Bracelet: This is soooo cute. It’s like a friendship bracelet for adults! A little pricey for a bridesmaid gift, but maybe some of ya’ll can swing it. Or maybe just for your one true bestie? Comes in brass or silver.

Dynamo Typochocolate: It’s chocolate that says “best day ever.” It’s chocolate so….good gift by default. The typography is just the cherry on top.

Cookbook: Cookbooks are a typical bridal shower gift…but this one put an instant smile on my face. Isn’t this how every woman feels many a night??? I think this also works as a gift to the groom. I’ll admit- I have no idea if the recipes are good… it’s the profanity that got me.

Hi Old (and new) Friends,

It’s been a while, I know. Oh how I’ve missed thee! I considered filling this post with all of reasons (maybe excuses) for why it’s been so long. But… I figured, it doesn’t really matter. I’m just glad to be back. Sigh….feels like I’m home again after a long vacation.

Inspiration to come!

Am I behind the times or what? I had no idea how many couples were using these to announce their nuptials! I started out on this quest to find video invites after watching this one that was posted by a bride on the Wedding Chicks site. Super Cute!—a slice of invite from Jodi Miller on Vimeo.

And look at all these other fantastic ones!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uJG7JqqQg8&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQUBd3RkxBo&feature=related

I found a new favorite. *sigh*….love when that happens.

Jill Thomas Photography- check out this elopement that she photographed a little while back. I’m loving this couple’s style and individuality. They are a stand out pair to say the least.

Eloping seems so romantic sometimes! An intimately small guestlist (or nonexistent one) is definitely something to consider. Maybe your wedding would be perfect with just the two of you or just a handful of the people that matter most…

recommended activity for the next few minutes- head over to Jill’s blog for more inspiration.

These designs are so fun and AMAZING! I’m not sure how easy it would be to pull these off as a a DIY project, but it may be possible if you’re really creative and resourceful.  If I walked into a reception with this decor, I would be ready to PARTAY!

All designs by Confetti System:

love these!

Custom pillows and gifts from k studio:

some of the choices available:

One of the easiest ways to dress up all those little spaces that people will see at your wedding (think escort card tables, bathroom counters, entry way areas, etc) is to use jars, vases, and other nifty containers that are filled with creative (and cheap!) things!

Anything from sand, stones, collections of various things, or fruit! Take a look around your neighborhood and get creative! I’ve got some pictures to inspire you below:

For a holiday wedding- ornaments make great fillers.

These veggies are cooked…but you could use raw veggies that fit your color palette. 

For fall, pinecones and acorns are great! I’m sure you can find something at your local craft store to spray these with to give them a sheen if desired. 

collections of items can add a vintage touch… love this.

Credits: Millie Holloman via Style Me Pretty, The Bride’s Guide, Country Living, Todd Hoffman via Women’s Day, Envision Wedding Studio by AC Ellis,

Hey everyone! Busy busy week for me (again). I’m in New Orleans for a conference- so posting will be light but here’s a a little peek at a wedding that I’m in love with! Can’t wait to share!

yes…you read correctly! Nicole Koester Photography is offering 2 FREE Destination Wedding Shoots for 2010. (and that’s destination meaning outside of IL, IA, WI)

What you will get…

› Basic Digital Editing on all images to Ensure Proper Contrast, White Balance, and Color Hues
{as well as a folder containing images with extensive editing}
› Online Proofing and Print Purchasing, for your convenience
› High-Resolution Images of your Wedding Day on Dvd with a Limited Copyright Release for Personal Use

Not only do you get your Wedding Day photographed for FREE, you’ll also get a FREE Day After Session {also known as a Trash the Dress Session}.

How to apply?

Just submit the following information to nkoesterphoto@yahoo.com
- A photo of future hubby and wife along with a short story on how the two of you met.
- Details about the wedding. (location, date, etc.)
- And of course, your contact information. (phone number and email address)

so this is just the short and sweet of it- make sure you head over to Nicole’s blog for more info!

hello great opportunity!