A Special Pillow, A Special Message

Oh yeah, I am back....life has just been a little cuckoo, but I hope to jump back in the swing of all things wedding...including a giveaway for my latest book, The Everything Wedding Checklist Book: All you need to remember for a day you'll never forget (Everything Series)

For now I had to share this fabulous idea with you. My dear, sweet friend Sarah from Modern Country Style fashioned this sweet cushion to celebrate Valentine's Day, complete with wedding year and location. Isn't it just perfect!

Can't you imagine the possibilities....

Wedding or anniversary gift.

Ring bearer pillow.

A couple of cushions on a sweet bench at the wedding.

A Valentine's present.

An engagement present.

Go visit Sarah for a tutorial on how to make this sweet cushion and just say hi because her blog is lovely. 

Happily Ever After Sign

I created this chic sign that can be used at the wedding...how fabulous would it be hanging on a garden gate for the guests to see as they exit, at the end of the aisle, or even as part of the couple's dining table decor...so many possibilities!

The sign could absolutely be customized with the wedding colors, a wedding date or the couple's names too. Oh yeah...I think this sign turned out pretty cute...so why not add different vinyl lettering for any occasion!

Supplies

Click HERE for a full pdf

1 wood board. I used a 6x1 cut to X" long

Design Diva vinyl lettering #1204

Decoart American Acrylic, white

Decoart Enamel, Black

Decoart Stencil Paint, Grey

Cutting Edge Stencil Brush Set

Cutting Edge Wall Art Stencil, Birds on a Branch

Dremel Multi-Max

Rockler Deft Wood Finish Semi-Gloss

DISChangers

Ribbon (optional)

Go check out The DIY Club for the full tutorial.

And visit 504 Main for more DIYing!

Faux Vintage Crate

I originally posted this over at 504 Main, but just had to share!

Can't you just imagine this holding

your programs, favors, wine bottles?

Add your name, wedding date, location, etc. on these crates for custom decor!
*******************

I love old crates. I dream of them. I search for them...

I cannot find a single one in my area!

I am taking matters into my own hands NOW!

I have the skills. I have the supplies. I am making my own!

SUPPLIES

CLICK {HERE} FOR A PDF

1. 3 - 1" x 4" boards cut as follows: 5 cut at 11", 2 cut at 11.5"

2. Gorilla Wood Glue

3. Gorilla Tape

4. Dremel Mulit-Max (Sander option)

5. Decoart acrylic paint in Burnt Umber.

6. Decoart glazing medium 

7. Handful of Nails

8. Hammer

9. Wood Stain and/or Paint I used a medium color stain 

10. Rockler sponge brushed.

11. Upholstery Tacks (for decoration, optional)

12. Preferred decoration**

DIY It!

1. Cut Boards ( 5 cut at 11", 2 cut at 11.5"). The two longer pieces are the front and back of the crate.

2. Bottom of crate: Take 3 cut pieces and run Gorilla Wood Glue along the edges. Make the bottom of the crate by pushing these together. Tape them with some Gorilla Tape to keep them tight while they dry.

3. Make the perimeter of the crate. Add Gorilla Wood Glue to the corners of the remaining cut pieces. Use Gorilla Tape to hold the four corners together. I actually formed the box around the base from the above step made it really easy to keep is all squared up and easy to see where the 2 longer pieces fit in.

4. Let dry completely.

5. Remove Gorilla Tape.

6. I hit in some nails to give it the hand made look and for character. I did 3 nails on the front and back and 1 for each base board. And I did one on each side.

7. Using my Dremel Multi-Max with the Sander, I sanded all over the box. I really wanted to take off the edges but also make certain areas appear more rounded and worn.

8. Wipe crate clean and apply wood stain. Let Dry.

9. Mix Glazing Medium with Water and Burnt Umber acrylic paint as per directions on bottle.

10. Apply glaze to entire crate and wipe off excess.

11. Come back in with a darker paint {Burnt Umber} and using a DRY brush hit the corners, edges, etc. to give some character. Think about where the crate would be worn.

12. Add some upholstery tacks for decoration (optional)
13. Add decor. 

Transfer IT!**

My preferred decor for the box was the French word for Marriage "Le Mariage" {since I was a wedding planner and still love weddings, it seemed apropos}.

Supplies

Image or wording

Transfer Paper

Iron

Directions

I simply printed it out using a French Script font on my computer onto T-shirt Transfer Paper. I think this would be fun with the couple name and wedding date on the other sides. Iron on decor - this take more time than when using this on a T-shirt or cloth item. They can easily be painted! I will be trying the waterslide decal method next time!

*************

I L-O-V-E-D this project.

So, expect to see some variations!

I am already working on a bigger rolling version! 

Did you know the DIY Club September Party

is happening right now and open until9/16...

there is plenty of time to create a project...

$500+ in prizes are up for grabs!

DISCLOSURE: As part of the DIY Club, I have been supplied with vendor sponsored products to complete my projects. The opinions are projects are my own. See, my disclosure policy for more information.

Something Old, Someting New, Grab the Crew, and Your Gorilla Glue!

At my other blog, 504 Main,
their is a B-I-G Gorilla Glue giveaway happening.
Below are the details...
but you must enter at 504 Main.
*******************
A Giveaway and  a SUPER-FAB Party!

The DIY Club will be hosting an EXTRA party next month

BUT RIGHT NOW,

You have 18 chances to win a gift box of Gorilla Glue!!!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Gorilla Glue PARTY

Sept 9th through Sept 30th

Our theme is:
Something OLD

Something NEW

Grab the CREW

(Yeah, get the family involved)

And the GORILLA GLUE

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Repurpose something OLD or create something NEW, Grab your CREW,

just be sure to use Gorilla Glue in your project!

You have plenty of time, to plan, and

22 days to enter...

why TWENTY TWO?

Just because it rhymes with NEW, CREW and Gorilla GLUE!

What you will enter?

We can't wait to see your projects.

If you have entered a Gorilla Glue project into one of our monthly contests,

you CAN re-enter it into this special event.

The Gorilla Glue Giveaway! 

!!RIGHT NOW!! 

Get three entries at 504 Main: 
Contest open to US participants only

1- ONE chance if you follow this blog
If you already follow that's cool, just leave a comment
If you are a new follower - welcome...leave a comment.

2 - ONE chance if you follow the DIY Club inc

and

3 - ONE chance if you post the Gorilla Glue button on your side bar

(Grab the code at the bottom of the post)

*********

To get those other 15 entries

1- Visit and FOLLOW the other 5 ladies blogs (see list below). Leave them a comment letting them know you are following. If you already follow--let us know.

504 Main

It's So Very Cheri 

Tatertots and Jello

The DIY Show Off

Under the Table and Dreaming

Whisperwood Cottage

-one entry per blog for following-

-you must visit the individual blogs for these entries-

2- FOLLOW (or if you already follow) the DIY Club, just let EACH of the ladies know as you leave your comments. (one entry per blog)

3 -POST the Gorilla Glue button! You only need to post the button once, BUT let each lady know as you comment. It automatically enters you for 3 more entries.

Each of the 6 DIY Club gals is giving away a gift box of Gorilla Glue. We will announce the 6 winners, Sunday Aug 22. Follow the guidelines above and here is where to enter!!!

504 Main

Tatertots and Jello

Under the Table and Dreaming

It's So Very Cheri

The DIY Show Off

Whisperwood Cottage

<a href="http://www.DIYClubinc.com"><img alt="Gorilla Glue Party" src="http://itssoverycheri.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/Goriila-Glue-Party-button.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="250" /></a>

MANY MORE PRIZES will be awarded to our Gorilla Glue contest winners of the party event.

Our Regular monthly party event will still take place.

That party will begin 7 pm Sept 2.

VOTE for the DIY CLUB August Winner NOW!

Click HERE to see who is in the TOP 12!

Gorilla Glue is providing the prizes for this giveaway. See my disclosure policy HERE. 
Contest open to US participants only  
COMMENTS OFF
YOU MUST ENTER at
504 Main

A Lot of Color! A Lot of Spice!

Back when I was in L.A., I was the Co-Director for

the Association of Bridal Consultants-Greater Los Angeles.

In that position I had the opportunity to work with

amazing people on a daily basis. 

Each month we would host a mixer for event professionals.

The goal was networking, education and

to introduce new products and ideas.

The following photos are from one of our events

held at Veranda's in Manhattan beach, California.

For this event went went with a "hip Moroccan" theme

and used non traditional colors of fuchsia, lime, and orange. 

There were beautiful linens, chairs, and locale provided,

but working with a florist we transformed
the event using common items that had
great impact on the eyes and not on the budget.

Hollowed artichokes and orange halves held votives.

This added a bit of whimsy and also a fun way

to display common wedding decor. 

 Glass hurricanes held pillar candles, but interest

was created by placing dried fruits and nuts in the base...

bought in bulk...this was very inexpensive. 

We used the spices only on the cocktail tables,

so their aroma did not interfere with the meal.

 Spices were used freely!

Again, we bought spices in bulk

- look for whole, not ground, spices

such as coriander, anise, cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, etc.

Dates, figs, and other fruits also provided a

naturally fitting accent to the cocktail table decor.

The lanterns and other containers were all from Big Lots

and purchased at various times.

Only a few here and there matched, but the overall feel

of the containers was the same, so it worked.

The fabric draping is a combination of sheets bought on clearance, yardage of inexpensive fabric, and a print to bring it all to life. Extra large pillow forms were covered in cases made of sheets and loungers made of foam were placed throughout the garden.

Simple and inexpensive details using unexpected elements

were the key to this Hip Moroccan inspired soiree. 

Happy Planning!

Holly

Credits: location, Vernada's; catering, New York Food Company; floral design, Bobbe Vagel, Linens, BBJ Linen; Designers, Patty Andersen, Mary Sushinksi, Holly Lefevre

An Idea to Book

I L-O-V-E bloggers and their creative ideas.

This amazing Monday,

I bring you one truly fantabulous project from

Jacqui at craftymcgee!

When I saw this, I instantly had visions of

how great this project is and the additional

creative possibilities it holds.

So check this out!

A great memory book filled with cards, memories

and well wishes from the guests...

All made out of an old BOOK!

Jacqui's idea was inspired by a wedding she

attended for a couple who loves their books.

It is a wonderful way to capture the style, personality

or theme of a couples special day.

It will look great sitting on your

coffee table or bookshelf for years!

You can read all about Jacqui's process HERE.

 

All photos from craftymcgee

A Fab DIY: What's On Your Plate?

What's on your cake table?

Of course you have heard that you

“have to have” a cake knife and server

on your wedding accessory checklist,

but what about a charming cake plate

that can become a family heirloom.

HIP TIP: It is not always necessary to purchase
your own knife and server…

just ask the caterer or venue if they have a set you can use.

Now that we covered that…consider this…

Why don’t you get your DIY on and design your
own heirloom cake plate?

This is seriously one of the best totally cool touches

I have seen in awhile….and it is easy as pie (or cake!).

How special would it be to eat your first slice of

wedding cake together off of this plate and

then be able to take it home and cherish it...

even enjoy a slice of cake on your first anniversary

or other special occasions too.

(DIY Directions below)

This plate can be customized with a monogram, a special motif…

pretty much anything you want that can be done in silhouette style.

If you want to check out some other samples of this cool DIY,

go to 504 Main - a lifestyle and entertaining destination.

Charming DIY Heirloom Cake Plate

Supplies

1. Glass cake plate (you could do it on a bigger plate, but the smaller works better for the cake)
2. Enamel paint in black (paint for glass...make sure it is opaque)
3. Paint brush
4. Enamel spray paint in white (or your choice of color)
5. Clear acrylic sealer in gloss
6. Design, such as a monogram, silhouette, motif
7. Masking tape
8. Permanent marker with fine tip (Like a Sharpie)

 Directions

1. Clean: the back of the glass plate with soap and water, a cleaning solution, or rubbing alcohol to get it really clean.
2. Design: Search for free clip art, silhouette clip art on the Internet) of just “blow up your monogram/initials in any word processing program to the size you want and print it out. I actually used Microsoft Publisher, made a text box that was 4.5 x 4.5 and typed my “L” into it. Then adjusted font style and size until it fit in the box (and thus on the plate) they way I like it. NOTE: It may be necessary to print “mirror image” so that the letter, etc. is pointing the way you want.
3. Cut: Trim up the paper to be a size that is easily taped to the plate.
4. Tape: Using masking tape, affix the image to the front side of the plate, centered or placed however you prefer.
5. Trace: On the back side of the plate, use a permanent marker (such as a sharpie) to trace the outline of the design.Remove image and tape…it will be easier to see the outline better.
6. Paint: Begin painting with the black paint, within the outline of the image. Finish painting and leave to dry completely.
7. Clean: When you know it is all dry, gently clean the back of the plate again to get any smudges, etc. that may have gotten on the plate during the black painting layer.
8. Prep: Cover a well-ventilated area with newspaper, paper bags, or a drop cloth and set your dry plate on it with the backside (painted side) facing up.
9. Spray: With even strokes, spray the white paint. You may need to let it dry and spray again.
10. Let dry completely. DO NOT put the painted side down, stack the plate, etc. until you finish the next step with the sealer...it will chip!
11. When dry, again, using protective covering for your work area, spray the back with the acrylic sealer.
12. Let dry completely...

…and Voila! A charming heirloom cake plate…

A special memento that you can keep and use for years to come.

Yes! You can eat off of this plate...all the paint is on the back.
See the bottom of the post for Tips!

Here are some photos of the process.

Step 6

Step 9

TIPS

1. Patience is key. This DIY is not hard if you have patience. If you don't (like me), it is easy to smudge and chip the plate. AGAIN LET EACH LAYER DRY COMPLETELY!
2. Let each step of the painting process dry thoroughly Seriously, I cannot stress this enough!).
3. Do not move your plate while spraying the color on the back…until it is dry.
4. Do not move the plate while spraying the sealer on the plate…until it is dry.
5. If any paint gets on the rim or front of the plate, it can be removed with a gentle rubbing...I used Goof Off to get off a stubborn area. This should be done after sealing.
6. Pick your deisgn based on your artistic level. For example, I have a bold hand, so fine details were not in the cards for me, but I have seen one with finer details...AMAZING!
7. I recommend gently handwashing it.
8. Check out 504 Main for more DIY photos)
   

If you try this…Let me know, I’d love to see a photo!

Happy DIYing!

Holly

Click here for the link to the original (video) instructions (not made by me or anyone I know from Beverly's Arts and Crafts!)

What's On Your Plate?

What's on your cake table? Of course you have heard that you “have to have” a cake knife and server on your wedding accessory checklist, but what about a charming cake plate that can become a family heirloom.

HIP TIP: It is not always necessary to purchase your own knife and server…just ask the caterer or venue if they have a set you can use.

Now that we covered that…consider this…Why don’t you get your DIY on and design your own heirloom cake plate? This is seriously one of the best totally cool touches I have seen in awhile….and it is easy as pie (or cake!).

How special would it be to eat your first slice of wedding cake together off of this plate and then be able to take it home and cherish it...even enjoy a slice of cake on your first anniversary or other special occasions too. (DIY Directions below)

This plate can be customized with a monogram, a special motif…pretty much anything you want that can be done in silhouette style. If you want to check out some other samples of this cool DIY, go to 504 Main - a lifestyle and entertaining destination.

Charming DIY Heirloom Cake Plate

Supplies

1. Glass cake plate (you could do it on a bigger plate, but the smaller works better for the cake)
2. Enamel paint in black (paint for glass...make sure it is opaque)
3. Paint brush
4. Enamel spray paint in white (or your choice of color)
5. Clear acrylic sealer in gloss
6. Design, such as a monogram, silhouette, motif
7. Masking tape
8. Permanent marker with fine tip (Like a Sharpie)

 Directions

1. Clean: the back of the glass plate with soap and water, a cleaning solution, or rubbing alcohol to get it really clean.
2. Design: Search for free clip art, silhouette clip art on the Internet) of just “blow up your monogram/initials in any word processing program to the size you want and print it out. I actually used Microsoft Publisher, made a text box that was 4.5 x 4.5 and typed my “L” into it. Then adjusted font style and size until it fit in the box (and thus on the plate) they way I like it. NOTE: It may be necessary to print “mirror image” so that the letter, etc. is pointing the way you want.
3. Cut: Trim up the paper to be a size that is easily taped to the plate.
4. Tape: Using masking tape, affix the image to the front side of the plate, centered or placed however you prefer.
5. Trace: On the back side of the plate, use a permanent marker (such as a sharpie) to trace the outline of the design.Remove image and tape…it will be easier to see the outline better.
6. Paint: Begin painting with the black paint, within the outline of the image. Finish painting and leave to dry completely.
7. Clean: When you know it is all dry, gently clean the back of the plate again to get any smudges, etc. that may have gotten on the plate during the black painting layer.
8. Prep: Cover a well-ventilated area with newspaper, paper bags, or a drop cloth and set your dry plate on it with the backside (painted side) facing up.
9. Spray: With even strokes, spray the white paint. You may need to let it dry and spray again.
10. Let dry completely. DO NOT put the painted side down, stack the plate, etc. until you finish the next step with the sealer...it will chip!
11. When dry, again, using protective covering for your work area, spray the back with the acrylic sealer.
12. Let dry completely…

…and Voila! A charming heirloom cake plate…

A special memento that you can keep and use for years to come.

Yes! You can eat off of this plate...all the paint is on the back.

I recommend gently handwashing it.

 See the bottom of the post for Tips!

Here are some photos of the process.

(check out 504 Main for more DIY photos)

Step 6

Step 9

TIPS

1. Patience is key. This DIY is not hard if you have patience. If you don't (like me), it is easy to smudge and chip the plate. AGAIN LET EACH LAYER DRY COMPLETELY!
2. Let each step of the painting process dry thoroughly Seriously, I cannot stress this enough!).
3. Do not move your plate while spraying the color on the back…until it is dry.
4. Do not move the plate while spraying the sealer on the plate…until it is dry.
5. If any paint gets on the rim or front of the plate, it can be removed with a gentle rubbing...I used Goof Off to get off a stubborn area. This should be done after sealing.
6. Pick your deisgn based on your artistic level. For example, I have a bold hand, so fine details were not in the cards for me, but I have seen one with finer details...AMAZING!

If you try this…Let me know, I’d love to see a photo!

Happy DIYing!
Holly

Click here for the link to the orignal (video) instructions (not made by me or anyone I know from Beverly's Arts and Crafts!)

Fuschia & Lime & Yellow...Spice It Up

These are a few photos of a hip wedding we created awhile back. Simple and inexpensive details using unexpected elements were the key to this Modern Moroccan inspired soiree. DIY's to come!