Something Blue

Something old,

something new,

something borrowed,

something blue.

The proclaimed origins of this rhyme are varied, but the reason usually boils down to good fortune with the marriage, particularly in bearing children. I'm all about having a good marriage and all about the color blue, so I like the idea of following this rhyme for my wedding (at least the "something blue" part!).

Here are a few ideas that strike me as easiest to implement, and also really pretty.

1. Flowers

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One of the first things I thought about when devising plans was the flowers. I am a big fan of soft, puffy looking flowers: hydrangeas, peonies, carnations and large roses. My mom had white and light green hydrangeas for her wedding bouquet, so when I found out you can get blue hydrangeas they were instantly added to the list for that sentimental connection and the fact that they could match my color scheme. If you decide on blue flowers, I would recommend either going bright and bold (a big bouquet of only one flower) or soft and varied (light blue flower of choice mixed with other flowers and garnishes). If blue flowers are too unnatural for your taste, a blue ribbon tied around the stems of your flowers will add the color nicely.

2. Bridesmaids

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Dressing your maids has many pros: blue is flattering in some shade on every skin tone, it can be classic or vibrantly whimsical and chances are it is the favorite color of your maids (blue is the favorite color of 40% of people worldwide). For a timeless and consistent look, have your bridesmaids wear the same shade and cut.  If you want to be a bit more fun, try various shades. You could also do a neutral shade dress with a blue shawl (or vice versa).

3. Accessories: Shoes

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Adding blue can be as major as an entire dress or as subtle as an accessory. In the case of shoes, they are often hidden by the dress until you reveal the surprise, which makes it a really fun way to add happy blues to your day. I particularly like the latter pair of shoes for bridesmaids. If you're a perfectionist, match shoe accessories with other details: flower clips of the same type as your bouquet, a chevron patterned pair of flats with printed napkins, glittery pumps with shimmering jewelry.

4. Accessories: Hair

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I like the addition of a hair comb because it is functional and elegant. I do quite like the combs with shining gems at the end, but this latter flower one has a rustic and old time feel. I also just really love the idea of being able to take my hair out with piece (if you style your hair with only the comb). So simple. If hair clips aren't your thing, try a blue flower arrangement, birdcage hairpiece or even a blue veil.

Feeling more daring? One of my friends wore a blue dress, instead of white, for her wedding. She was married on a Saturday, days which are always devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary, so it was a good nod to her faith. Have any special family heirlooms? What better a time to wear them?

Do you have the blues too? Leave your recommendations in the comments below!

Paris Theme

Naturally, Paris has a special place in my heart because it has a special place in our story, so a wedding with some Paris touches seems very appropriate. I would love to visit Paris again, and a destination wedding would be unbelievable, but it is more realistic for me to figure out how to bring Paris across the sea. Here are some of my favorite ideas of how to incorporate a Parisian look into your wedding ceremony and following reception.

Rings on Macarons: 

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How cute is this? Macarons are tiny, colorful and delicious. What's not to like? Macarons were the first gift my fiance gave me, so they are sweet in multiple ways. The only problem: getting this picture in before devouring the tiny cookies. If you're feeling brave, here is a step-by-step guide to making macarons if you'd like to give it a shot yourself.

Macaron Pyramids:

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Let's be honest. I would rather have my own macaron shop than a walk-in closet (though, it would be even cooler to have a macaron shop in a walk-in closet, no?). These macaron pyramids would be cute edible centerpieces for the tables or they could be a feature on a dessert table with other small sweets.

Paris Landmarks:

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Can't afford a destination wedding? Bring Paris to your location with a walk through Paris-themed tables. If you're clever, you can arrange landmarks in an East to West formation if you are ambitious and strange like me. If you've been to Paris, feel free to add places significant to your trip, though they may not necessarily be main attractions. You can use figurines as favors, guiding guests to their seats. Another idea I like is printing napkins with a landmark stamp: classy meets rustic DIY.

Color schemes: 

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One of the best parts of my trip was going to Versailles less than twenty miles from Paris and walking through royal palace halls. When I remember it, I remember the colors: rich gold, rose pink, stone white, sky blue and leaf green. The wallpaper of Marie Antoinette's bedroom was feminine and light pastel, a perfect scheme for flowers, bridesmaid dresses and tablescapes. Soft blooms in a textured golden vase, decorative china and shining, simple cutlery bring a romantic French feel to the meal. I also really like the idea of adding a Parisian touch to the invitations and/or save the dates, as above.

Have any clever ideas on adding elements of your favorite city to a wedding? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!