Happy Holidays Inspiration Board

Happy December 1st! I cannot believe that we are 24 days away from Christmas. I have so much to do before then. Wrapping presents is high on the list for today! I love Christmas. Absolutely love it!

One fun thing about living in New Braunfels is that they have a festival for everything.  Tonight is Wassail Fest. I will be spending the evening walking from business to business downtown eating good food and drinking wassail. Sounds terrible doesn't it?

To celebrate one of my favorite months, I created a fun inspiration board. This board is full of holiday cheer, color and things that just make you smile. I hope that you have fun today welcoming in December!



1. Hostess with the Mostess, 2. Batches: The Cookie Jar, 3. Food Network, 4. Hostess with the Mostess, 5. Hostess with the Mostess, 6. Fresh Chick Designs

Are you doing anything fun to celebrate December? Attending any fun festivals? I would love to hear from you!

Wedding Dress Wednesday

Hello friends! I hope that you all are having a good afternoon. Thank you for the overwhelming response of sweet words and views of Laken and Murray's Wedding Highlight. In case you missed it, you can check it out here. Again, I appreciate your thoughts and kindness.

Today's designer is Yoo Lee of Saja. You know me and I love a designer/career woman who knows dedication, tears and joys that go into create a brand. Yoo Lee is beyond talented not only when it comes to gowns but also accessories. I also love the styling of the model for her 2012 collection. In true Katie fashion I couldn't pick just one gown so you get to look at two! You can thank me later.

And my favorite:

Photo Source: Saja

From the messy braid and bun to the cream belted sash and sheer sleeves, this gown is dreamy. It is soft, romantic with a dash of sexy. This dress is perfect for walking down the isle.

What do you like about each gown? Would you wear a dress with sheer sleeves? For more on Saja, click here.

Laken and Murray Wedding Day Highlight

Yay for getting to share more of my work with you! Before the first of the year I hope to share one or two more videos with you.

Laken and Murray were such a pleasure to work with. I have raved about Laken from the start but was blown away that she would take a chance on me. She is one of the first people to book with me even though I didn't have anything to show her. She is such an inspiration and just a few moments with her touches your heart forever. I got to know Murray the day of the wedding. He is a man of integrity and a natural leader. When he makes the major leagues I can't wait for him to say, "Oh yeah, she did my wedding video." Ha!

I got this text from Laken:

Katie I love you. The video is beautiful. I'm so touched and so grateful for this!! You can't put a price on it!!

This text alone makes me smile and realize I am doing what I love to do and what God has called me to do. 

Here is a little clip of their day + the ceremony:



For more on Laken and Murray, click here.

Goals for December

Happy Monday and I hope you all are recovering from all the turkey, stuffing and pie. Thanksgiving seems to have gone by so quickly. Now onto today's post:

Don't let this title scare you. The more and more I look at my blog and videography business I am surprised at how quickly it is really turning into a business. With that being said, I guess it is time for me to start getting in the business mind set. The biggest thing about starting this journey is I am learning as I go. I really do learn a lesson a day and am blessed by the people who have helped me along the way.

I have created a list (shocker) of things that I want to complete by the first of the year because the first of the year is bringing even bigger goals. So...here goes:

1. Be organized financially. I have receipts out the wazoo and only about half of them recorded. I desperately need to sit down and organize my files. I need to record every transaction. Before I know it tax season will be here. Eeeek!

2. Legal Jargon. This weekend marks my first Texas wedding. That means that I am officially out of the friend zone and into weddings with complete strangers. I need a legal contract for each bride to sign so both the client and I feel secure.

3. Study more videos. I am constantly doing this but I want to make sure I find inspiration everywhere. Not just inspiration in video but photos, songs, relationships, blogs, Pinterest and every day life. Inspiration is just waiting to be discovered at every turn.

4. Take more risks. I want to take more risks with blogging and editing. I want to continue to try new things. I want to discover more things I love and cross off things I do not.

5. Schedule a haircut. Yes, this is not a business goal but I need one. Badly. Surely with it on the list I will get this done.

6. Refuse to settle. This stands alone. I promise to keep pushing my self and others in the wedding industry.

7. Truly let loose and be me. Sometimes I think (especially with blogging) that you have to do things a certain way. I feel stifled sometimes by the norm for writing and posting. I truly want to write a post and have every ounce of my personality show through it. At times I am witty, extremely bubbly and over the top positive but I shouldn't have to apologize or hide that those traits are who I am. Time to be me 100%. It feels good just saying this!

8. Make up my own rules. Who says I have to only blog about weddings, weddings, weddings? I do love weddings but I also love home ideas, simple craft projects, new recipes and more. I hope to start including more of these ideas that not only help a bride-to-be but also a newlywed or any woman interested in reading this blog. Throw caution to the wind (wink)!

9. Update my video and FAQ pages. Simple enough but putting it on the list is a must. I get emails  asking questions and I figure I can cut down on response time by updating my FAQ page.

10. Remember why I do what I do. I can never lose sight of this. If I do I am not doing what I set out to do, be a good writer and even better videographer. Each reader should be inspired while every bride should be ecstatic about watching their videos.

On a more personal note I want to wish my sweet niece happy 13th birthday! We officially have a teenager in our family.

Isn't she gorgeous? I can remember when Savannah was born. I was in 5th grade. (I know!) She amazes me and is truly one of the most talented individuals I know. Her future is so bright and I love that she made me an Aunt. Happy Birthday sweet girl!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Photo Source: Pinterest

Happy Thanksgiving friends! Today is a celebration for all that God has blessed us with and we continue to work for! Here's to turkey and ham, being very full, desserts, family togetherness, Christmas decorating, Black Friday shopping, laughter, drinks with friends, cuddling puppies and memories that will forever touch our hearts.

This is Lovebird Productions first Thanksgiving. Thank you for your continued support. Thank you for reading every day. Thank you for your words of encouragement. Thank you for pushing me. And mostly, thank you for believing in me. I love you guys!

Wedding Dress Wednesday

Happy day before Thanksgiving! I hope you all have already made it to the grocery store. If you are traveling to see loved ones in the next day or two be careful. I just love the holidays. Tomorrow we get to bask in yummy eats, family traditions, down time, laughter, desserts and the start to the Christmas season. Desserts are what I am looking forward too. Just kidding...kind of.

I was procrastinating on Pinterest (go figure) and I came across an amazing gown. When I started to research the designer I was even more shocked to find out that it was a hand made gown and sold on Etsy. The price, $278. You are going to love this!

Photo Source: Here

Told you so! It is so pretty and like nothing I have ever seen. Madabby has a lot of fabulous gowns to choose from. One of the things that caught my eye was their slogan, made by heart. For more on Madabby and to browse their shop, click here.

What do you like most about this gown? Would you wear a Madabby creation? Let me know what you think. Happy Wednesday friends!

Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

One of my favorite things about Thanksgiving is the food. I am a total foodie. One of the biggest things I look for when it comes to new recipes is a dish I can make the night before. Prepping the dish the night before helps to cut down on time in the kitchen and more time with friends and family.

When I was thinking of what recipe to share I thought about the dish I make most at the Holidays. Hashbrown casserole = Holiday joy at our house! This recipe is easy, inexpensive and can be assembled the night before.

Photo Source: Here

Here is what you need:

1 bag of frozen hashbrowns (I prefer cubed)
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 small white onion
1 & 1/2 cups of sour cream
1/2 block of Velveeta cheese
2-3 tablespoons of butter
About 2 - 3 cups of cornflakes (You be the judge.)

Instructions:

1. Dice white onion. Cut Velveeta in small cubes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine hashbrowns, can of cream of chicken soup, onion, sour cream and Velveeta.
3. Melt butter in the microwave.
4. Crush cornflakes.
5. Spray baking dish (I usually use a 9x13 baking dish). Pour in hashbrown mixture. Top with crushed cornflakes. Pour butter on top of the dish.
6. Bake until bubbly (35-45 minutes).
7. Enjoy and help yourself to seconds!

Sounds delicious doesn't it? Like I mentioned you can make this dish the night before and add the cornflakes and butter right before you are ready to bake the dish. This dish is guaranteed to be a hit with friends, family and little ones. I will give you one guess as to what side dish I am making for Thanksgiving?

What are your favorite dishes around the Holidays? Share your recipes below!

Christmas on my Mind

Hello loves! You like the title of this post? Listen, I know that we haven't even celebrated Thanksgiving let alone barely made it to the middle of November but Christmas is on my mind.

But before we get to Christmas, I have a confession. I love cupcakes, frozen yogurt, cookies, candy...any kind of sweets. Like really love them. Last weekend I decided to give up sweets until Thanksgiving. That would make a total 10 days. Yes, that may not be a lot for most people but for me it is. I have been strong and resisted sweets at every turn and the result, I am cranky. I am counting down the moments until Thanksgiving. Literally. Now onto a happier topic.

Ever since I was a little kid Christmas has been my favorite holiday. Not just because gifts but because the decorating, family togetherness, dinner parties, shopping, Christmas music, hot apple cider, baking and more! See. Just the thought of Christmas already made you smile.

I contemplated not writing this post because some people really get frustrated that people are already thinking about Christmas but my blog = my post ideas. Love how that works plus Christmas shopping will kick into full swing by the end of this week.

Today I thought I would cover just a few things that would make great stocking stuffers. Sometimes it is hard to think of new ideas for filling stockings. Here are a few of my favorites:

1. Travel Perfume. When I saw this gift I thought it was brilliant! This is perfect for any girl or woman. You just fill up the tube with your perfume and it can go wherever you go. Told you...brilliant! For more on this product, click here.

Photo Source: Here

2. Starbucks iTunes Cards or Ornaments. When I stopped at Starbucks a few days ago I found the cutest gift ideas right on there counter. One gift I loved were the Pick of the Week cards. Each card has a free iTunes download of music or shows. I took a few and scored a free Michael Buble Christmas song.

Another gift that caught my eye and you only set you back $5 is this cute ornament.

Photo Source: Here

Isn't it cute? This gift is perfect for any coffee/ Starbucks lover. For more on this gift, click here.

3. Wine stoppers. The best part about this gift is you can find the neatest ideas to help keep your wine fresh. I was looking through a lot of different toppers and couldn't believe what people have created to top your wine bottle with. You can spend $30 or $40 on a nice metal or wood stoppers or $8 on this fun cupcake stopper. For more on the wine stoppers below, click here.

Photo Source: Here

4. Purse hook. I can't tell you how many times I go to a restaurant and do not want to set my purse on the floor. I mean think about it. What all has been on that floor? This gift is so creative and I like how you can give it that added personal touch with initials or name. It is small and fits perfectly in your bag. For more on this gift idea, click here.

Photo Source: Here

5. Favorite Candy. Who doesn't love a handful of their favorite sweets? I rest my case. And just to flare up your sweet tooth...

6. Reasons I love you stones. This gift is just sweet and I love the thought of receiving a gift like this. The stones say "I love you" on one side and then a fun reason why like "because you get my jokes." That stone fits my husband. I think he laughs more at how ridiculous my jokes are than the actual comedy in them.

Photo Source: Here

I hope that these ideas help when it comes to stocking your loved ones stockings full. If you want to send me any of these gifts, I can send you my address. (Lots of smiles)

Do you have any other fun gift ideas? I would love to hear what your stocking stuffing plans are for Christmas.

Love Song Friday, Volume 31

Photo Source: Braedon's Photography via Green Wedding Shoes

Happy Friday loves! I am so glad we have made it to the weekend. I am needing it! I won't keep you long today but I wanted to say I hope that you have a wonderful day and an even better weekend.

Who is excited for the upcoming holidays? Crazy to think that Thanksgiving is next week! This week I recapped Todd and Kimberly's wedding and Jenny Packham rocked Wedding Dress Wednesday. I know...not that much blogging. You will have to forgive me but I promise to be back to blogging every day next week.

I chose a song that I absolutely love by one of my favorite artists. Jennifer Hudson has been featured before here but I just can't get enough of her voice! I thought why not make it a Jennifer Hudson kind of day. What does a Jennifer Hudson day consist of? Well first you have to be confident. Next you wear a gorgeous outfit that makes you feel good and finally you sing out loud all day long. In your office, car, house or with friends, sing just like Jennifer.

I chose All Dressed Up in Love from the Sex and the City Soundtrack. I can remember hearing this song for the first time and immediately downloading it. Now for a woman who is better at singing than I contain in my right pinkie finger...

Wedding Dress Wednesday

Don't we all love eye candy? That is what Wedding Dress Wednesday is about. A nice interruption to your hectic day. A moment to enjoy lace, a-line skirts and daring gowns. A time to tune everything out and appreciate one designer who is making the wedding world a better place by their fabulous designs. Ah, thank goodness for Wedding Dress Wednesday. It makes the middle of the week look just darn good.

Today's designer is the talented and very clever Jenny Packham. Looking through her collections was beyond enjoyable. She not only has great taste but a few awards under her belt. Her gowns have been featured in numerous magazines like Vogue and Brides.  Lea Michele, Emily Blunt, Jennifer Aniston and Leighton Meester are just a few celebrities to wear her design but the biggest excitement/star is the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton. Yeah, she is that good.

It hard to pick just one so I didn't. (Surprised? Yeah, didn't think so.) Hey, you deserve lots of Jenny Packham goodness and there is enough to go around.

All Photos: Jenny Packham

Now you see why I couldn't pick a favorite! They are all such fabulous designs and these are only the ones I have shown you. You can see more of Jenny Packham's smashing gowns and accessories by clicking here.

Which gown is your favorite? Do you prefer a certain style of dress? How do you feel about the detailing i.e. jewels, feathers, belts? Thank you for stopping by Wedding Dress Wednesday. Now you must return to work, life, errands but feel free to stay as long as you like. You are always welcome here!

Wedding Weekend Recap

Photo Source: Facebook

I love this picture! This picture was taken as Todd and Kimberly proudly walked down the isle after becoming husband and wife. It was such a special wedding and I am beyond grateful that I got to be apart of it. (For more on their love story, click here.)

With every wedding I learn something new like in these posts here and here. Here are just a few things that I learned this weekend:

1. Buy the right shoes or at least inserts. I have been trying to be cute yet comfortable at every wedding. I wear flats that match my outfit but they offer no support. The photographers who were there had on cute tennis shoes. Any suggestions for shoes that will help keep me going?

2. I want a name tag. End of statement.

3. I will eventually need an assistant. I realized this more than ever this past Saturday. It was hard running all over the place. Maybe one day I can afford one!

4. Invest in extension cords. This one is more of a personal note than anything else.

5. Know who is in your party. I met Kimberly at the hair salon and was filming her and her mom. I went over to film another lady and when I went back to Kimberly she told me that she wasn't with them. We laughed hysterically. I never really thought to ask but now I know to. Anything to make the bride smile!

6. I love my job. Every wedding has it difficult moments but the good moments always make me smile. It reminds me of why I do what I do and why I love it.

How was your weekend? Did you go to any weddings or get married? I hope it was full of love and laughter.

Love Song Friday, Volume 30

Thirty volumes? That is amazing, exciting and nerve wracking at the same time. Have you all really put up with me for 30 Fridays? You guys are too good, really good.

This past week I said a few thank you's, shared tips on finding the perfect honeymoon destination, shined with Wedding Dress Wednesday, updated you on Kendall plantation and now it is Friday. Whew!

Who is thankful for Friday? We have been on the road so much lately and even more trips are coming up with the holidays. When did it get to be November? This weekend we get to celebrate Todd and Kimberly and I am excited. More exciting video to come!

The song I choose this week is an oldy but a goody. Let's give a warm welcome to the Goo Goo Dolls. I can remember hearing Iris for the first time and thinking it was such a cool song. I was also in 6th grade so cool meant a lot. This song made the Goo Goo Dolls an instant hit and I smile every time I hear it played at a wedding, over the radio or online.

What are your plans for this weekend? Anyone getting married or going to a wedding? Anyone getting to spend time with loved ones? I hope it is a great weekend for all and happy Friday friends!

Kendall Plantation: Southern Charm and Then Some

A few months ago I introduced you all to a new venue being built in the hills of wine country in this post. Kendall Plantation was still being constructed but was projecting completion and their first wedding for this past October. Talk about pressure and a brave bride but one look at the concept of this place and you can understand why she snatched up this venue. It went from this:

To this:

And this:

To this:

And just in case you can't get enough of this sweet southern plantation home:

Photo Source: Kendall Plantation via Facebook

I know. I know. I can't get enough of it either! The photos above were taken at a recent wedding they hosted. I am amazed at the transformation. This venue has stunning views and has plenty of southern charm to go around. They are booking quick so any bride interested better check them out. This weekend alone they have two weddings and a shower! I also got the privilege of meeting the crew of Kendall Plantation at the San Antonio Bridal Extravaganza and they were so kind. For more on Kendall Plantation visit them on Facebook here or check out their website here. Hopefully one day I can film a wedding here! Who knows? I may just go check it out anyway.

What do you think of the finished look of the venue? Would you get married at a southern plantation home? I would love to hear your feedback!

Wedding Dress Wednesday

Happy day friends! Today is no exception to the rule. Wedding Dress Wednesday is going to wow you. Alita Graham is no stranger to the wedding world or Lovebird Productions from this post here. The things I love about these gowns are they are contemporary but have traditional values, in other words lace. Yes, you all know my love affair with lace. Not only can you find lace detailing but each gown is made from popular silhouettes. Their is an Alita Graham gown made for every body type and that my friend makes a good gown and designer.

When I saw this dress I squawked with excitement. Onto the show:

Photo Source: Alita Graham

Hello lover. I love the full skirt, various layers of organza and the sweetheart neckline. The model appears flirty and ladies we should all feel flirty on our wedding day. And oh man give me a loose braid any day. Let's all say around of praise for Alita Graham.

For more on Alita Graham, click here. I am also including a fun video from the website that I love because who doesn't love looking at more gowns? Duh. Wedding Dress Wednesday.

What is your favorite detail of this gown? Would you wear this style of ball gown? Let me know what you are thinking!

Picking the Perfect Honeymoon

 Photo Source: Fairy Tales Are True

Every day I am constantly brainstorming ideas for this blog when I realized that I have never talked about picking your honeymoon destination (one of top three favorite things involving planning our wedding.) I have discussed picking the perfect dress, selecting your first dance jam (yes jam) and finding your venue but never honeymoon locations. Can you guess how I am going to tell you tips on picking the perfect honeymoon destination? If you guessed a list, well then you get 1,000 points. What do points earn you? Uh a lot of love from me? Candy bars? Well, the points are like Whose Line is it Anyway where the points don't really matter. You are still special in my eyes and really talented at ad-libbing Irish drinking songs.

Onto the list.

1. What is your style? When you think about a vacation what do you envision? Skiing the slopes and hiding in a rustic cabin, traveling scenic streets and visiting historical landmarks or lounging on the beach with a fruity cocktail in hand? Finding your vacation style is important. When you picture a week together what are you going to do? That helps determine the style of vacation that will make your honeymoon unforgettable.

2. Scout out a budget. Yes, most family members will pay for the honeymoon but for most that still requires a budget. Make sure that the vacation and your style correspond with your budget. A two week trip along the California coast may not be realistic. Also remember that for some trips you will need money once you arrive to your destination. Who will cover these expenses? Talk over the budget with your spouse and whomever is helping pay for the trip whether it is you both as a couple or the groom's parents. No matter the size of the budget you can have the perfect trip especially when you follow step #3.

3. Research. I cannot stress this enough. Do not just choose a location because everyone tells you it is great. Look it up! A week's stay at a private resort may not be the trip for you even though cousin Susan loved it. Once you have agreed upon a style, look into what suits you and stays within budget. This trip is all about you. You have the right to have the perfect trip. Hey, you just got married!

4. Remember the seasons. When planning your honeymoon keep in mind the time of year you are getting married. If you want to visit Europe in the warmer/summer months getting married in December does not coordinate. Time and location do matter!

5. To sight see or not to sight see? That is the question. I think this is important when picking a honeymoon. Are you truly wanting to spend your days sight seeing or do you want to spend your days lounging around? If you want a little of both, make it happen. A weeks stay at Disney World may not be for you if you are not wanting to be out and about. Make arrangements for things that you can do as a couple whether touring the streets of Italy or cuddled up in a hammock by the ocean.

6. Travel agent or online booking? Booking online has become the norm. The advantages are that you get to do it from home and it is free (the booking). Make sure that you are selecting the right options. Also call and verify all details once your trip has been booked. The benefits of a travel agent is they take care of everything and I mean everything! They make sure reservations are completed correctly and often times have stayed at a lot of the places they are recommending. The only disadvantage is that you do have to pay for their services. Whichever one you prefer both are great options for making sure your vacay is a-okay. (You are welcome for that little rhyme.)

7. How much luxury are we talking? This may sound silly but it is a good point! If you are wanting to spend time alone in your room make sure you book a hotel that has excellent rooms, room service and plenty of space. If you are wanting to lounge by a pool or beach, how nice are those accommodations? If you are wanting to ski every day, how is the transportation to the slopes? These things do matter. Make sure you pick a hotel or lodging with great reviews and excellent customer care. Do not feel guilty about being pampered! Also look into couple packages. Some destinations offer romantic dinners, spa treatments or private tours. Keep luxury in mind while traveling!

8. Make sure you have enough time. This one is self explanatory. Waiting until the last minute to plan your honeymoon make result in disappointment. Leave enough time to follow the steps above. Like I have mentioned the honeymoon is about you returning to sanity and leaving the taffeta nightmares behind. You are celebrating your first week or weeks as a couple, just you and your husband. Planning your honeymoon is a top priority!

All these things can guarantee that you will have a splendid honeymoon, one for the books actually! Have you started looking for honeymoon destinations? What type of honeymoon are you looking for? Will you be vacationing beach side or touring wine county? I would love to hear from you!

Monday Love + A Little Thank You

Good morning and happy Monday! I just want to say I am thankful that you are taking the time to read this blog. When I started this venture I never realized how many people it would help and inspire. I hope that this blog is a bit of positive in this crazy world. I also pray that it helps any soon-to-be bride, a newlywed or a hard working woman. I still cannot believe the number of viewers that read this thing but keep it coming. This week + weekend is going to be a busy one for me but I promise to keep updating the blog.

Today I wanted to share a little photo to make you smile. Hey, we all need smiles on Monday.

Photo Source: Pinterest via The Knot

How romantic and stunning? It leaves me breathless. I hope you know you deserve a love like this. Happy Monday friends!

Love Song Friday, Volume 29

Happy morning friends! It is so chilly outside here in Texas. I can't believe it. The crazy thing is it will be 80 degrees again next week. This weather situation may be why I am sick. I love the cooler weather though! I have ants in my pants to start Christmas decorating. I know...make it to Thanksgiving but just 30 days or so of Christmas decor is not enough in the Farrin household. My husband loves all the decorations. That last sentence may or may not be a fib. I also may or may not be listening to Christmas music right now.

Don't worry. Love Song Friday is not going to be a Christmas carol but be on the lookout for those in a few weeks. Hey, I warned you. I have a mild obsession with Christmas. Let's recap all our lovely topics from this week. Monday I shared the triumph of completing my first half marathon plus a perfect Halloween recipe for any shower or party. Tuesday we talked about shoes and the fun they bring to any wedding day. Wedding Dress Wednesday was a hit with Augusta Jones and yesterday wrapped up the week with showcasing our thankfulness.

Now onto a new song and a new day. I love Friday's. Not only do they bring the anticipation for the weekend but it brings happiness. Friday's make people smile and so will today's song. I chose Ray LaMontagne's You Are the Best Thing. Warning: You may play this song a lot! I love the soul to it plus the lyrics are perfect. My favorite line:

You know, I hope and I pray that you believe me
When I say this love will never fade away

Yes, sometimes I am too rainbows and unicorns but love is something that I will never try to hide my excitement for. Everyone should have it, experience it and live to tell about it. Happy Love Song Friday loves! What are your plans this weekend? Do you have anything exciting planned? Let me know along with your suggestions for next week's Love Song Friday.

Showing Just How Thankful You Are

 Photo Source: Pinterest

We made it to November! Who is just as surprised as I am to find myself welcoming fall and Thanksgiving? With this season many are giving thanks for what they are thankful for. While eating homemade chili (recipe to come soon) with my husband last night I got a bright idea. Why don't we write down what we are thankful for? When Thanksgiving day roles around we can read them and have the warm fuzzies then stuff ourselves full of turkey and pumpkin pie. Good idea or what?

I started researching fun ideas to showcase our thanks or a creative way to store them. I came across two ideas and tutorials for them. Score! You know I love a good tutorial. The first one is from my favorite website crazy addiction, Young House Love.

 Photo Source: Young House Love

Sherry created an etched look on a glass canister to hold their words of sweetness. I love this idea! It is easy, inexpensive and you can use any vase or glass object you have at home. For a step-by-step guide on recreating this idea, click here.

Another idea that I really enjoyed was a gratitude board. This works great for a family of two (like R and I) or a family full of little ones.

Photo Source: Jelly Bean Junkyard

This idea takes a bit more craftsman ship and work but you can use it each year at Thanksgiving. When created your board you can also make it reflect your decorating style. Each day you take out the card inside the numbered envelope and write down what you are thankful for. I like that it includes the entire month. For more on this fun idea and a fabulous tutorial, click here.

I also browsed for fun printables and tutorials. You could use them for decorating your house, table settings, napkin rings, garland, name tags or even use them to host a fall shower. I love being able to use these around the house + add my own touch to it. You can find a few of my favorites here, here, here, here, here, here and here. I know it is a lot but I want to make sure their is something for everyone.

What are you thankful this holiday season? Are you and your loved ones doing anything special to express your thanks? I always love hearing ideas from you all! I am thankful for you guys. Hey, that may be what I write down today!

Wedding Dress Wednesday

Happy Wednesday friends! Last night while browsing for gorgeous gowns I came across a designer I had never learned about. A big warm welcome to Augusta Jones! I was wowed from the first dress and impressed until the last one. Since I enjoyed her gowns I decided to read more about the history of the line. Three factors influenced why she started designing gowns: beautiful styling, flexibility of the range to flatter a variety of shapes and affordability. She sounds like my kind of woman! I have included a few of my favorites below:

I also took time to look at her veils and my oh my they are beautiful. I love that each one is different but pretty. Veils are such a fun and classic wedding day accessory. I did save my favorite dress for last. You may have already seen it when you clicked on her website. I love the messy hair, the table setting, the scenic background, the belted waist and the lace detailing. Pretty gowns brighten my day! For more on Augusta Jones, click here.

Photo Source: Augusta Jones

All About the Shoes

When looking at real weddings one of my favorite things to check out are the shoes. From the groom to the bride, I love a good set of shoes. Shoes are an added touch of fun and detail that shouldn't be looked over.

What shoes did you wear to make your day extra special? Stripes? Glitter? The possibilities of cute shoes are endless. Thank goodness! I gathered a few pictures that should add a little sunshine to your day...

Photo Source: Danielle Davis Art/Photography

 Photo Source: The Wedding Post via Maura Dawn Photography

 Photo Source: Style Me Pretty

 Photo Source: Benfield Photography

Photo Source: Green Wedding Shoes

 Photo Source: Pinterest via Benfield Photography

Photo Source: Every Last Detail

And to send you off on a good note with shoes socks, this photo was taken at a friend's wedding's. Beyond awesome....

Photo Source: Jeremy Canvass Photography