Volume 6 / the color issue by Smitten Magazine

may / june 2012

THE

COLOR ISSUE CAROL HANNAH INSIDE HER DESIGN STUDIO

NYC

SPRING FASHION WEEK

ALL THE SHOWS ALL THE TRENDS

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

WELCOME

TO OUR

COLOR

ISSUE!

IN THIS ISSUE/

may + june

IDEAS SIGNATURE DRINK

SERVE UP A "BLUE JAM"

QUIET BEAUTY

NEUTRALS TAKE THE STAGE

160

EDITOR PICKS

perfectly

POLISHED 10

pretty shades for your big day – or any day

By Becky Hoppmann, Creative Director

Holding your bouquet. Toasting champagne. Hugging tightly during that first dance. For every bride, hands are ever on display. After choosing your shade and style — we love something soft and timeless for fingers — enlist a friend to accompany you to your nail

1 Essie, Gilded Lamé Sparkles 2 Sally Hansen, Walk on the Beach 3 Sally Hansen, Sorbet 4 Sally Hansen, Linen 5 Essie, Tart Deco 6 Sonia Kashuk, Tango Mango 7 Sonia Kashuk, Ole Caliente 8 Milani, Disco Lights 9 Sally Hansen, Sea 10 Sally Hansen, Sky Photography | Leigh Webber M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

TO D A R E E! L SPARK

appointment. From digging into your wallet to opening doors, tasks that seem simple enough can ruin your fresh mani, so have an accomplice in tow. And remember, it takes nearly 30 minutes for nails to dry completely, perhaps even longer on a hot, humid day.

FEELING BOLD? Spring for something blue on your toes. We love daringly dark or pastel and barely there.

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

Gown

SHOPPING 101

From the first consultation to the final

measurements,

Our

Style

Editor, Lindsey Nowak, shares all of her insider advice â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and proves that it's not so intimidating, after all PHOTOGRAPHY

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

LEIGH WEBBER

GOOD to KNOW Take it one appointment at a time. Many brides think that a single marathon of appointments will lead them to their dream dress. But booking six appointments on a Saturday often yields the opposite effect — not only is it exhausting, it’s confusing. Instead of straining to remember every gown, every shade of ivory, opt to spread our your appointments over one or two days, booking no more than three per day. Remember, most boutiques are by appointment only and fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Be sure to call two to three weeks in advance and allot time for travel and lunch.

Set a budget — and stick to it. I can’t tell you how many times I ask about the budget and get a range of different answers. When walking into an appointment, be sure that everyone is aligned on a number. Conflicting opinions on budget can cause miscommunication, awkward scenarios and, ultimately, an unsuccessful appointment. Remember, there are endless gown options out there — and surely one that fits within your budget.

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

TIMELINE OF

A DRESS

9-12 MONTHS Gather inspiration

8 MONTHS Shop and purchase

Less is more. Like too many cooks in the kitchen, there can be too many friends in a bridal boutique. Some brides dream of an appointment with friends, bridesmaids, sisters, grandparents, future in-laws and parents in tow, but it’s better to stay small. The more people you include, the more opinions you’ll get. Choosing your wedding dress is a highly emotional experience, so keep it to just a few loved ones who know you well, support your decisions and put you at ease. As for the rest of your friends and family — let them see the dress on your big day!

Be ready to shop. Mermaid or trumpet? Lace? Beading? Maybe a sash? Dress shopping sure is fun, but it’s also hard work. Changing in and out of gowns, debating details and contemplating price tags is a lot to take in, so be sure to arrive wellrested. If you haven’t eaten or hydrated properly, you could possibly faint (no lie — it’s happened!).

Be in the right time frame. As a rule, I recommend starting the search about eight months out. Unless it’s from a consignment shop or sample sale, your dress can’t be purchased and carried out of the store in the same day. After you’ve made your choice, measurements will be taken and the custom order made. You can expect your dress to be ready about four months later. If you’re planning to be married within six months or less, you may be able to rush your gown for an extra charge, or opt for something off-the-rack.

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

3-4 MONTHS Pick up dress; initial fitting

1-2 MONTHS Additional fitting for alterations (if any)

1-2 WEEKS Final fitting

Go for it. Whether you’ve tried on three or 300, when you find the right dress, you’ll know. Some brides worry that a gown must move them (and their mother) to tears, but if you don’t weep, don’t fret. Wait for the moment you feel comfortable, beautiful, and most importantly, like yourself. And when you’ve found the one, stop looking! Trust your instincts and celebrate your decision.

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

IDEAS

SIGNATURE DRINK

BLUE JAM 1.5 oz. Cardinal gin 1/2 oz. St. Germain elderflower liqueur 1/2 T Blueberry compote or jam Splash of soda

Combine ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a chilled martini glass. Layer blueberries and mint leaves on a skewer to garnish.

Recipe provided by

FISH WWW.FISHRESTAURANTCHARLESTON.COM LEIGH WEBBER PHOTOGRAPHY

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SHE'S YOUNG, WILDLY TALENTED AND COULDN'T BE RISING FASTER. DESIGN DARLING CAROL HANNAH WHITFIELD IS OUR ONE TO WATCH

BY CLAIRE E. KEYS

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

PHOTOGRAPHY CORBIN GURKIN

GOOD to KNOW SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

“I READ EVERYTHING FITZGERALD EVER WROTE. IT TOOK ME A YEAR,” CAROL HANNAH SAYS TO ME, CLAD IN A LOOSE KNIT SWEATER AND JEANS, HOLDING A GIANT MUG OF COFFEE (NEVERMIND IT’S 5 O’CLOCK IN THE EVENING). I’ve just walked into her small Manhattan showroom and am instantly bewitched by the racks of dresses that cover two long walls. I’m wandering in circles, running my fingers over silk and taffeta — oooing and ahhhing, probably to excess — so she follows me, explaining the collection as I move. She goes on: “He wrote about these lavish parties, always with an element of the outdoors — and you can just really see them.”

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

“The inspiration is this luxe, chic garden party,” she says. The Gatsby references come through loud and clear in her newest collection — vibrant colors; vintage details; notes of 20s style — but in small, restrained doses that read as fresh. “I envision a girl who’s a bit more grown-up and sophisticated, but still relaxed. I guess a girl who’s becoming a woman. Because I’m growing up, too.” At just 27, her ascent to success in the bridal scene has been fast and furious. Carol Hannah grew up in Anderson, SC, beginning to mimic her mother’s pattern making and sewing at just seven years old. She made her own clothes throughout middle school, fashioned her friends’ prom dresses in high school, and in the same year, was hired to design her very first wedding gown. Then, at 23, she landed a slot on a little show called Project Runway. Turning out fierce frocks, always with a sweet southern candor, Carol Hannah pushed her way into the top three. After a heralded showing at Bryant Park and a year off to prepare, the match set fire.

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

PIN WITH

US!

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

"I think I would have found my way eventually,

with

without

Project

Runway, " she says." But going on the show prepared me. I knew when the traffic would start coming in and was able to get my first shop [on Etsy] up and running beforehand. That was a huge blessing.” Just four years later, she’s grown tremendously, with no slowing down in sight. Her brand calls a large, two-level space in the Garment District home, complete with a studio, cozy showroom and living quarters for late nights. This spring’s collection is her largest yet — “a more ornate, handwork-driven capsule,” she explains. Hearing Carol Hannah talk about her work is a delight. I point to a silk blue ribbon with frayed, dip-dyed edges (see our cover). “Oh, yes! I just love that,” she says, running it through her palm. “It’s like the hem of a dress after running through the woods.” I'm suddenly envisioning one of Fitzgerald’s girls escaping from a party in this, dashing through the back lawn of a country estate. Not only are Carol Hannah's designs gorgeous, each seems to paint a romantic scene in great detail.

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

Some are simple and white; some complex and colorful. There’s a tea-length, pale blue-gray dress that feels dreamy, not moody. Another is a layering of gossamer white and pale, pale peach — a shade she calls blossom. “I’m absolutely obsessed with it,” she says. “It almost intensifies when it’s layered with white. Beautiful.” There’s also heavy use of apricot and a very fair silver. “They’re all so subdued,” she says. “When it comes to color in bridal, I think a pale color can read just as neutral as white.” But it’s in her bridesmaid work that the hues really come alive — “like flowers blooming in a garden,” she says. From deep red and fuchsia to bright violet, the cocktail dresses work in synergy with the gowns, crafting a story that’s not only beautiful, but truly makes sense. I could stay for hours to study her work, but I can see dusk falling over the street outside. Carol Hannah walks me toward the door, turning back to look around the room. "It's definitely my favorite collection yet," she says. "Hopefully that will always be the case."

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

“ IN HIGH SCHOOL, I WAS CREATING THESE DRAMATIC, WHIMSICAL PIECES. THEN I REALIZED, I NEED TO JUST DO ALL OF THIS IN WHITE. ”

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

JESSICA RYAN& B.R . COHN WINERY

SONOMA, CA

photographed by GERTRUDE & MABEL PHOTOGRAPHY

In Sonoma, summer takes hold in the most beautiful way. And on this couple’s big day, the country's sun-soaked vineyards and thriving olive groves seemed more full of life (and love) than ever before. Pulling from a bold palette of goldenrod, scarlet and crimson, Jessica and Ryan’s nuptials captured the carefree bliss of the season — billy ball boutonnières and plaid ties for the boys; ruby slippers for the girls. Sunflowers and lemons cast their cheerful spell as guests feasted family-style on local delicacies. But it was those pinwheels twirling in the wind — those sweet childhood relics — that really captured our hearts, proving that you’re never too old for bright, fun color. Never. CAIT BARNETT

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

PHOTOGRAPHER GERTRUDE & MABEL PHOTOGRAPHY | EVENT PLANNING & DESIGN

MY FLAIR LADY | FLORALS MY

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

EMILY

DAVE THE VILLA TERRACE ARTS MUSEUM

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN

photographed by M THREE STUDIO

On a hill overlooking the endless blue of Lake Michigan, guests watched as Emily and Dave exchanged promises at an historic Mediterranean villa. Just after, the party moved to the lawns below by way of a dramatic stone staircase, flanked with lush trees and cream hydrangeas. The décor's quiet, earthy palette seemed to be plucked right from the scenery at hand: stone gray, mossy green and notes of rust and thistle. But even the most serene of weddings must make way for a little glitz. In Emily’s case, a pair of shimmering gold heels — which perfectly matched Dave's gilded Louisville Slugger. CLAIRE E. KEYS

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

PHOTOGRAP H E R M T H R E E S T U D I O | E V E N T P L A N N I N G & D E S I G N J O N AT H A N D I E L | F L O R A L S J O NATHAN DIEL CEREMONY V E N U E T H E V I L L A T E R R A C E A RT S M U S E U M | R E C E P T I O N V E N U E L A K E PA R K B I S T R O | C ATERER LAKE PARK BISTRO

CEREMONY MUSIC

Q U A RT E T L E D B Y M A J A K AY S K O G L U N D

RECEPTION MUSIC

SOUND BY

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

F AV O R I T E M O M E N T

...

“It was during our ceremony as we overlooked Lake Michigan — seeing all of the people we loved in one place and the sailboats covering the shore in the distance. Absolutely breathtaking.”

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

point of

hue 60

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

PIN WITH

US!

Forget white, ivory and cream. Color-rich, rule-breaking gowns are a rite of spring PHOTOGRAPHY / GAYLE BROOKER

S T Y L I N G / L I N D S E Y N O WA K GATHERING EVENT & FLORAL DESIGN

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

SOFTEST

BLUSH DOLLY PEARL JESSICA JOANNA AUGUST LINCOLN CHRISTOS PEONY

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

PRETTY PASTELS AMSALE G695C ROMONA KEVEZA RK264 AMSALE G695C

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

VINTAGE

GEMS BHLDN TULLE ERA DRESS

MONIQUE LHUILLIER 450007 AMSALE G688H

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

BOLD JEWELS DOLLY PEARL NEW ROMANS CAROL HANNAH WHITFIELD CHAMBORD CAROL HANNAH WHITFIELD DELAFORD

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

MODERN

NOTES BHLDN PLEATED FANTASY GOWN COREN MOORE ELLIE

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

ROMANTIC SHADOWS COREN MOORE KATHERINE ROMONA KEVEZA RK265 LYNN LUGO TATE

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

A SPECIAL THANK YOU BRIDESMAID GOWNS PROVIDED BY BELLA BRIDESMAID/CHARLESTON SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

PALETTE

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

get INSPIRED

A FRESH RAINBOW OF FROCKS FROM THE DESSY GROUP

INSPIRES OUR

SPRINGTIME

COLORBOARDS In a seemingly endless spectrum of shades (over 180 to be exact), The Dessy Group’s new Pantone Wedding™ Chiplette is reinventing the bridal color wheel. Starting with their core collection of fabrics, Dessy collaborated with Pantone, known worldwide as “the authority on color,” to create an extensive new color library, comprised of individual Chiplette cards that feature QR codes. With a simple scan, the code logs into dessy.com, where a bride can piece together a unique palette, share her ideas with the wedding party, then distribute the exact shades to everyone from florists and printers to caterers and cake bakeries. That’s what we call a bright idea.

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

Sunflower / PMS 12-0727 TPX Tangerine Tango / PMS 17-1463 TPX Posie / PMS 18-1945 TPX PIN THIS

COLOR BOARD!

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

/ Meadow PMS 17-3615 TPX / Passion

PMS 15-5711 TPX

PIN THIS

COLOR BOARD!

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

Daisy / PMS 13-0755 TPX Jade / PMS 18-5128 TPX PIN THIS

COLOR BOARD!

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

/ Rose PMS 14-4500 TPX / Alabaster PMS 14-1907 TPX

PIN THIS

COLOR BOARD!

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

Snapdragon / PMS 14-0827 TPX Ginger / PMS 16-1632 TPX Turquoise / PMS 15-5519 TPX PIN THIS

COLOR BOARD!

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

/ Pale Blue PMS 17-4139 TPX / Cornflower PMS 19-3864 TPX / Royal PMS 15-4105 TPX

PIN THIS

COLOR BOARD!

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

LINDSAY

CHRISTOPHER THE CARNEROS INN

L AGUNA BEACH, CA

photographed by SCOTT ANDREW STUDIO

On the quiet November afternoon that Lindsay walked down the aisle, the Napa countryside was met by careful strokes of color. Dramatic, yet playful — just like the couple’s favorite season, which inspired their theme: Fall in Love. “We wanted something clean and modern, but with rustic elements,” she explains. Her bridesmaids wore deep, ripe plum and carried burgundy calla lilies. A cluster of violet blossoms crowned the cake. The dark purples popped against milky orchids, while lush green succulents (and the groom’s neon socks) lightened the mood. Then there was the bride, turned out in Monique Lhuillier, a beacon of white amid the vivid harvest hues. Go ahead — fall in love. We did. CAIT BARNETT

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

100

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

101

102

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

103

104

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

105

106

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

107

R E A L

108

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

109

110

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

michelle

scott &

R A NCHO L A S LO M OS

S I LV E R A D O, C A

photographed by RACHEL FESKO

When it came time to plan their wedding, these two truly let color lead the way. Inspired by their setting, tucked deep into the California countryside, Michelle and Scott pieced together a playful palette that nodded to the rustic ranch: deep orange and pink to mimic the bungalow rooftops; icy blue to reflect the pools; pale greens to echo the grass and bending trees. One flower that was a must in every arrangement? Roses. They line the stonewashed pathways throughout the grounds. Not to mention â&#x20AC;&#x201D; theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re the ultimate gesture of love. CLAIRE E. KEYS

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

111

PHOTOGRAPHER RACHEL FESKO | EVENT PLANNER BELLA NOTTE WEDDINGS & EVENTS | FLORALS EMPORAFLORA VENUE

RANCHO LAS LOMOS

TAINMENT INC. / DJ TASOS

| |

INVITATIONS & FINE STATIONERY

112

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

CATERER

BRIDE

24 CARROTS

MARYLINN'S BRIDAL

CAKE |

BEVERLY'S BEST BAKERY

GROOM

FRIAR TUX

MUSIC

| INVITATIONS

LSM ENTER-

SOCIAL SAVVY

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

113

114

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

115

116

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

117

118

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

119

120

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

121

122

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

123

presents

RUNWAY

RECAP // Spring 2013 //

M U S T- S E E C O L L E C T I O N S

DESIGNERS Q&A WITH SENIOR WRITER / CLAIRE E. KEYS

STYLE EDITOR

L INDS EY N OWA K

b r e a ks d ow n t he u pco min g t r e nds

PHOTOGRAPHY

124

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

CORBIN GURKIN

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

125

must-see collection / 1

AMSALE

126

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

Q&A

WITH AMSALE SPRING COLLECTION IN 3 WORDS: Soft, feminine, classic THE BIG INSPIRATION: Textures, like featherweight French Alençon Lace and Silk Organza Eyelet — eyelet is a big trend in ready-to-wear and I try to use it when appropriate in bridal. FAVORITE TREND OF THE MOMENT: Eyelet, because it's both retro and modern. PHILOSOPHY ON COLOR: I like color in very soft hues. For example, blush or champagne. Color can also be incorporated in accents and jewelry — wearing a favorite gem or an heirloom can be a meaningful way to incorporate color into a bride's look. WORDS OF WISDOM: I know it's easy to get stressed out over wedding planning, but I always encourage brides to find a way to enjoy the whole process.

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

127

128

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

129

130

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

131

must-see collection / 2

132

ROMONA KEVEŽA . . M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

Q&A

WITH ROMONA KEVEŽA SPRING COLLECTION IN 3 WORDS: European Principessa (sorry, that's only two!) THE BIG INSPIRATION: This collection is a dedication to the paramour of eternal love — from the regency of London, to the romance of Paris, to love and marriage on the silver screen. FAVORITE TREND OF THE MOMENT: It’s all about couture artisan fabrics that make it one-of-a-kind. PHILOSOPHY ON COLOR: I've been doing color in my collections ever since I started my company over 11 years ago — soft blush, ice blue, celadon, even black. A bride wants to look the best she has ever looked on the biggest day of her life, and in some cases, I find that she can shine even more in a color other than white. WORDS OF WISDOM: Take the time to discover your personal bridal style. Research gowns online and collect a library of images that resonate with you. After a while, you'll notice trends: certain textures, colors, silhouettes and fabrics. When you finally go shopping for your dream gown, you'll have a much clearer understanding of what your heart desires.

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

133

134

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

135

136

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

137

must-see collection / 3

CLAIRE 138

PETTIBONE M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

Q&A

WITH CLAIRE PETTIBONE SPRING COLLECTION IN 3 WORDS: Charming, feminine, details THE BIG INSPIRATION: I was looking at my grandmother's china that I use for holidays. The idea of incorporating floral details and gold edging inspired many of the gowns. FAVORITE TREND OF THE MOMENT: Sleeves! I've always loved lace or embroidered sleeves â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the glimpse of skin beneath really highlights the beauty of the lace. COLOR PHILOSOPHY: I love soft touches of color. It's an opportunity for a bride to inject her personality and individual style into the wedding. Color can take something from boring to memorable in an instant. WORDS OF WISDOM: Remember to have fun with the planning process and keep it in perspective. Yes, it's probably the most important dress you will ever wear, but more importantly, you found the love of your life, so relax and enjoy!

Photography provided by Claire Pettibone

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

139

140

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

141

142

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

143

THE

TREND B R E A K D OW N ST Y L E E D I TO R / L INDS EY N OWA K

METALLICS

peplums

sleeves

coats/

capes & overlays! PHOTOGRAPHY

144

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

CORBIN GURKIN

D O U G L A S HANNANT

ROMONA KEVEZA

metallics

S ARAH SEVEN

CHRISTOS

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

145

AMSALE

CHRISTOS

peplums

146

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

R O M O N A K E V E Z A LEGENDS

REEM ACRA

A N NE BOWEN

HEIDI ELNORA

peplums

I N E S DI SANTO

AMSALE

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

147

CHRISTOS

REEM ACRA

sleeves

148

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

REEM ACRA

CLAIRE PETTIBONE

R O M O N A K E V E ZA LEGENDS

HEIDI ELNORA

sleeves

D O U G L A S HANNANT

REEM ACRA

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

149

C H A RLOTTE HESS

MODERN TROSSEAU

coats

capes & overlays

150

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

R O M O NA KEVEZA

REEM ACRA

AMSALE

IVEY & ASTER

coats

capes & overlays

I N E S DI SANTO

REEM ACRA

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

151

e v i G nk s a Th LONG LIVE THE WRITTEN WORD!

S TAT I O N E R Y D E S I G N E R A N D E T I Q U E T T E E X P E R T EMILIE DULLES COVERS THE CRAFT OF THE PERFECT THANK YOU

152

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

GOOD to KNOW The written word is most certainly alive and well through thank you notes, especially those following wonderful wedding gifts. While it used to be that a bride was given a grace period of up to a year after her wedding to send out all her thank you notes, the day in which the mail is transported by horse, buggy, or months-long sea voyage are well over and our postal service, for the most part, is much more expedient in its delivery methods. Nowadays, three to four months seems to be a more feasible and gracious time frame by which your thank you notes should reach your guests. That being said, there are attenuating circumstances which may stretch this suggested time frame such as a military deployment, moving homes and/or jobs from one city/country to another right after the wedding, or other significant personal life shifts, which take precedence over thank you notes until you get your personal or professional life organized and then are able to complete this last step of your wedding plans. Yes, it is important that each gift be acknowledged with a hand written note from the bride or groom or both. Pre-

printed generic thank you notes are not an elegant option and send a message of hastiness and little appreciation in response to a wedding gift. A thank you note need only be three sentences long, although you certainly can write a more extensive note as you see fit and for very close family members or friends. The first sentence should thank the person for the item in particular mentioning by name, i.e. thank you for the espresso maker, not just "your gift". The second sentence should make a personal remark with regards to the gift such as "we look forward to enjoying lattes and cappuccinos in our new home." The third sentence should be a closing sentence either referencing the guest's attendance at the wed-

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

153

ding "we thoroughly enjoyed celebrating with you" or inability to attend "we were sorry you couldn't celebrate with us in person, but we thought of you on our special day" and then close with well wishes "we hope to see you again soon" or "we wish you all the best for a lovely Summer." That's it. No complicated algorithms or extolling prose, just a little message that is personal and sincere. When it comes to the type of stationery on which you might write your thank you notes, the most classic is a fold-over note or "informal" personalized with the bride's married monogram. While this certainly is a timeless and elegant part of your stationery suite, most bride's opt to add on to this piece or hold-off on the monogram pending their decision to change their name or preference to include the groom in the stationery. Another lovely personalization for the informal is either the couple's married monogram with the last name initial in the middle, bride's first name initial on the left, and the groom's first name initial on the right or the spelling out of their married names, such as "Mr. and Mrs. Andrew James Smith, Jr." or the more casual "Elizabeth and Andrew Smith". The key element to remember when ordering personalized stationery for your wedding, is that if you use your married name or initials, then you have to hold off on sending the note until after the wed-

154

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

ding, as that is when you will be married and hence when you can start using your married name. That being the case, most of our brides and grooms select a more contemporary piece of stationery, often times a flat card, that includes their first names or first name initials only, i.e. Elizabeth and Andrew, which allows them to use the stationery before and after the wedding. This makes the task of completing thank you notes as the gifts arrive prior to the wedding more manageable especially in the case of large weddings when hundreds of notes will have to be written over the course of a few months. A thank you note is just that: an expression of thanks that take a few moments in one's life and reminds one that there is much for which to be thankful. If you consider all the notes you have to write in their entirety, the task may seem daunting at first. If you take them little by little and consider that you are recognizing a gift and the spirit behind it, then suddenly it is less of a mountain of paper and more of a joyful communication between you and your guests as you move on from being engaged to being married. EMILIE DULLES DULLES DESIGNS ~ EXQUISITE STATIONERY

WHAT´S COMING

NEXT ?

THE

DESTINATION

ISSUE ...

TO PARIS AND BEYOND

for JULY/AUGUST

INSPIRING

IDEAS REAL GORGEOUS WEDDINGS

and more!

LIZ BANFIELD

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

155

ARTFUL LAYERING AND WHIMSICAL TOUCHES PROVE THAT THE SOFTEST SHADES CAN MAKE A STRONG STATEMENT. DESIGNER TARA GUÉRARD TAKES US INSIDE A SOIRÉE DRESSED IN NEUTRALS

E V E N T D E S I G N | TA R A G U É R A R D PHOTOGRAPHY | LIZ BANFIELD 156

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

IDEAS SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

157

To soften and lighten a dark, wooden church, I opted for a soft white rug runner. It can disguise carpeting in a color or pattern that conflicts with your style.

Orchids reigned supreme â&#x20AC;&#x201D; flower wreaths, understated pew markers and a natural, deconstructed bouquet. Orchids stay perfect out of water â&#x20AC;&#x201D; even on hot and humid days. 158

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

159

160

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

Having dinner on a porch couldn't be more dreamy. Simple orchid strands and little lanterns dressed up what was an otherwise very spare space.

I play by the rule that a table should never been more than 4 feet wide or so. This way, everyone at the table can easily engage in conversation. SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

161

A lot of people talk about "branding" an event â&#x20AC;&#x201D; by using the same colors, monograms and patterns over and over, we create a very custom effect.

162

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

Even soft, subdued shades like ivory and champagne can make a big impact. Here, I used small fresh flower arrangements and lots of votives for the centerpieces. Embroidered linens added a sense of old-fashioned charm and kitsch. My favorite were the favor boxes that doubled as place cards â&#x20AC;&#x201D; two-in-one pieces are so clever.

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

163

I love that champagne saucers are back in style â&#x20AC;&#x201D; so retro! This classic champagne tower was such a hit with guests.

To keep things rustic, I incorporated wooden crate boxes and circular mirrors to build the tower. I love the added light reflections that the mirrors created. 164

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

165

166

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

Lounges make everyone feel comfortable. It's that feeling that you can kick back and relax. To make it more formal, we draped the ceiling in soft white fabric, which created a glowing effect. This technique works well in any space for any style. The crowning jewel for this room? A chandelier hung low, right above the cake.

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

167

I adore the embellished cake table linen that we made. The added dose of texture was lovely and unique â&#x20AC;&#x201D; it reminded me of a haute couture dress.

168

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

Instead of pin lights, I typically opt for small lamps to create a cozy atmosphere. It's more intimate.

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

169

As a parting gift, we created take-home bags for leftover cake slices. It's an unexpected gesture and the perfect ending note.

170

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

A PINNING IDEA! From gowns to c o lor b o ar d s , discover tons of t hi s i s s ue’s content on Pint e r e s t .

ADVERTISE

YOU'LL BE SMITTEN WITH T H E R E S U LT S ! . . .

I N OUR

JULY/AUG ISSUE!

DIRECT LINKS TO YOUR WEBSITE & SOCIAL ACCOUNTS O V E R 1 M I L L I O N PA G E V I E W S AD VIEWS FOR MONTHS (EVEN YEARS) TO COME B E N E F I T S T H AT FA R O U T W E I G H PRINT ADVERTISING

ADVERTISE@SMITTEN-MAG.COM

HELLO@SMITTEN-MAG.COM SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

171

172

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

THE APPLE BARN FARM

LIVINGSTON, NY

photographed by AARON ALMENDRAL

They met on a whim in San Diego. Years later, their shared east coast roots — she from New Jersey; he from New York — brought them back to New York City. When it came time to plan their dream day, Lindsay and Daniel chose a sprawling, understated farm upstate, complete with an open-beamed barn and rolling green grounds. Mix-and-match china, golden haystacks, old soda bottles and a beat-up truck added to the day’s easy, bucolic feel. At evening’s end, the couple and their loved ones gathered round a bonfire beneath the stars — a ritual to remind them of their early days in California, where it all began. CLAIRE E. KEYS

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

173

174

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

175

176

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

177

F AV O R I T E M O M E N T

...

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Over the years, Dan and I have danced to our wedding song countless times, always by ourselves (usually barefoot in the kitchen). It was an amazing feeling to share that first dance as husband and wife, the ones we love surrounding us.â&#x20AC;?

178

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

179

180

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

181

182

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

183

184

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

185

186

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

Leah

&mark C Y P R E S S T R E E S P L A N TAT I O N

CHARLESTON, SC

photographed by LIZ DUREN PHOTOGRAPHY

Lime, celadon, marigold — if Leah and Mark’s southern soiree doesn’t prove that color is infectious, we don’t know what does. Wed amidst the deep green cypress trees at an old plantation, the couple opted for bright hues and unexpected touches — a ring of limes to tie back drapes; oversized leaves and fresh blooms to wrap lanterns — making for a lovely, laid-back affair. As dusk swept over the landscape, twinkling lights came up and the party rolled on. CLAIRE E. KEYS

R E A L

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

187

PHOTOGRAPHER FLORALS

LIZ DUREN PHOTOHGRAPHY

STEMS CHARLESTON

VENUE

EVENT PLANNING & DESIGN

CYPRESS TREES PLANTATION

CATERING

KATHERINE MILLER EVENTS DUVALL EVENTS

CAKE

D’LISH DISCRIMINATING DESSERTS | RENTALS AND LINENS BBJ LINEN, SNYDER EVENT RENTALS AND DUVALL EVENTS CEREMONY MUSIC CHARLESTON BRASS | RECEPTION MUSIC ROB DUREN PRODUCTIONS | INVITATIONS AND PAPERS OVERHEAD STATION | BRIDE GOWN BOUTIQUE OF CHARLESTON | BRIDESMAID ATTIRE CYNTHIA ROWLEY | HAIR AND MAKEUP BEACHCOMBERS SALON | TRANSPORTATION PALMETTO LIMOUSINE SERVICE

188

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

189

190

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

191

F AV O R I T E M O M E N T

...

“Walking down the aisle with my husband, Mark, after we were introduced as husband and wife. With my hand in his, we both choked back tears as we walked past our friends and family to Gershwin’s ‘Oh Lawd, I'm On My Way’ from his opera, Porgy and Bess. There is no way I could come close to explaining how happy I felt in that moment.

192

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

193

194

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

195

R E A L

196

M AY / J U N E

SMITTEN

W E D D I N G

SMITTEN

M AY / J U N E

197