:: Fabulous Finds & Ideas: Lumen

If you like the idea of an enchanted forest or a midsummer night theme party. Or just like the shadowy effect of trees and birds, then this is for you.

I found these oil lamp shadow projectors online. This is one of six Lumen by Adam Frank images, and they provide effortless special effects and ambient lighting - one package, great price.

~Aisha Allene~

:: Knottie Friday: Purple Reign

Purple - once reserved for royalty - makes a fine and fitting color for a royal event, such as a wedding, ofcourse. Whatever member of the purple family that tickles your fancy (plum, lavender, lilac, eggplant, magenta, violet, grape . . .), when coupled with cream, white, pink, green, silver or even turquoise, the look is exquisite.

For a regal event, think damask, and paisley. These patterns can be incorporated into table linens, stationery, or decor accessories - like the damask votives found on Luna Bazaar.

~Aisha Allene~

Photos {l-r}
1st row : The Knot :: bridesmaid dress - Alfred Angelo :: handmade necklace - Bonita Fike Designs :: candles - Overstock
2nd row: Amazon :: Luna Bazaar :: The Knot :: Handmade cards - Nicole Heady
3rd row: Sugar :: The Knot :: purple gems - Jamali Gardens :: Wedding Wire
4th row: Victor Sizemore Photography :: Overstock :: votive holder - Jamali Gardens :: paper lantern - Jamali Gardens

Purple Paisley Invitation - Wedding Paper Divas

Source: Flower Fresh

Source: The Knot

:: Black White and Yellow

More black, white and yellow inspiration . . .

Mmmm! From The Wedding Channel.

My favorite thing about these is the way the design on the bridesmaids' dresses coordinate with the programs.
Source: Style Me Pretty

:: Knottie Friday: Black, White & Yellow

Lately, I've been experimenting with various color schemes for a wedding idea board - a great start for the bride who is undecided about her wedding colors, and needs something visual to make her choice easier. There are so many fabulous color combinations and equally fabulous wedding decor ideas to create the desired look and wedding experience.

So starting today, Celebration Elements presents Knottie Friday, blog posts, celebrating decor and color ideas, meant especially for the discerning bride. This week, we get a taste of Black, White & Yellow.

Photo Sources {l-r}
1st row: Invitation by Smudge Ink (Fine Stationery) :: Notecards (Messenger Bird Press) :: Monogrammed stationery by Stacy Claire Boyd (Fine Stationery) :: Photo from Bride Design photo stream [Cake by Jen Comfort, Stationery by Erin Nowak]
2nd row: Luna Bazaar :: Endless :: White House Black Market :: The Knot
3rd row: White House Black Market :: US Angels :: Luna Bazaar :: Ideal Favors
4th row: Jamali Garden :: Bliss Events :: Bliss Events :: White House Black Market

These would make very chic and versatile bridesmaids dresses, don't you think? This image was sourced from blogger, Mackenzie Sala.

:: Idea Board: Safari Tropics

I love parties that provide an experience for those in attendance. This Safari Tropics idea board was created with my daughter's two favorite movies (The Lion King and Madagascar) in mind, and may inspire those of you who want to create a Safari Tropics adventure right in your own backyard.

Hosting your party outdoors during a sunset will add to the ambiance, the orange, yellow and golden hues of the sky. Hang windowpane lanterns like those seen on Save On Crafts, in the trees, along with plain white or zebra striped paper lanterns, like those found at World Market.

Create a table scape, using bamboo place mats or table runners. Use coconut cups (PlumParty) to serve drinks to your guests, or use them as candle holders or vases. You can add more special touches to your party by filling apothecary jars (Save On Crafts) with white-colored candy, or setting up a VIP "Zebra Lounge" area using zebra striped toss pillows, throws or blankets. These will certainly make your guests feel special.

Even if the outdoors is not ideal for you, bring a piece of the outdoors inside by incorporating branches, greenery and naturals into centerpieces and decor. Visit Save On Crafts for some fresh ideas.

Most importantly, have fun!

~ Aisha Allene ~

Photo Sources {l-r}
1st row: Maria McBride :: Save on Crafts :: Save-on-crafts :: African Classic Encounters
2nd row: My Shape :: My Shape :: World Market :: Hite Photography
3rd row: Save On Crafts :: The Knot :: Plum Party :: Hostess Blog
4th row: Luna Bazaar :: Midnight Velvet :: Save On Crafts :: Announcing It

:: Destination Inspiration: Strawberry Hills, Jamaica

I found these beautiful snapshots on Style Me Pretty. And I had to share them with you for three reasons:

1) I love destination weddings
2) I love the photo-journalistic style of Christian Oth
3) I love Jamaica.

As a child growing up in the cool hills of St. Andrew, Jamaica, the picturesque and serene Blue Mountains (shown in photos), were literally my backyard .

Strawberry Hills Resort in Irish Town, the location of these wedding photos, is definitely a hot-spot for nature lovers. It oozes rich Jamaican heritage and rustic "country living" charm, with a touch of modern day sophistication.

I hope these inspire you too!

~Aisha Allene~