Blog & Chain

WE'VE MOVED

2009-06-05T20:07:00.002-05:00

Things change, blogs move and this one has found a new home that is faster, prettier, cozier and just a hell of a lot better...so forgive us for the mess, change you RSS feeds and come over to Blog & Chain's new home!

www.theblogandchain.com

this site will no longer be updated...so hang out at the new spot!

Our Inspiration

2009-05-17T10:00:00.000-05:00

Images from Amy Neunsinger, Beloved Weddings, Leigh Miller, Jose Villa & Martha Stewart Weddings

2009-05-12T19:44:00.003-05:00

Some of you have probably already been delighted by these pics, but in case you missed the buzz...Jill Thomas created some beautiful pics of what seems to be a very cool and authentic wedding. Their engagement portraits are great too!

yeah, you knew this was coming...

2009-05-11T00:44:00.005-05:00

Friday, on a whim, I spruced up the blog and subsequently changed the header. The former tagline read "Musings from an indecisive bride"...because I knew this adventure would include some back and forth about numerous details. And just when I thought I had it all figured out, I dropped the line...but guess what? Yeah, I've changed my mind again.

Introducing our new color scheme...emerald. We are both delighted (yes, my boo has an opinon on such things.) That's it.

A little piece of frilly awesome

2009-05-02T15:15:00.002-05:00

I can't even begin to explain how much of a frilly dress girl I AM NOT but this picture & dress are stirring all sorts of emotions in me...it's so beautiful I may throw out all of my pants and strictly convert to full on frilly black tie clothing from here to eternity.

This number is yet another gorgeous and understated decadent dress from Monique Lhuillier. I found it over at The Bride's Guide which has so graciously bestowed peeks into all the latest designs from all the best designers throughout the past month (read: You must check it out).

Don't Doubt It Till You Rock It

2009-05-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

This is a super short post...because time is limited at the moment; but I will be following up shortly with a million more reasons for you to believe the following statement: Carnations can be gorgeous. They have an unnecessary bad rap and I'm going to set the record straight all over this blog...so prepare yourself. Until then, enjoy this delightful picture. And while you're at it, run run run to the flower shop and pick up some handfuls of these underrated beauties!
-LM

p.s.
Happy Friday

Photo via Decor 8 flickr stream

You Had Me At Hello

2009-04-30T12:00:00.000-05:00

Anne Barge is always providing brides with clean, classic and perfectly elegant dresses and this one from her recent collection has stolen my heart. The lace is unique and the cut is flattering...in short: it's perfection.
-LM

Anne Barge dress via The Bride's Guide

Fun Paper

2009-04-30T08:00:00.001-05:00

Present & Correct is fun fun fun! I love how all the designs have a mid-century flair and plenty of whimsy. Though I didn't see any wedding related paper items, I think this site is loaded with plenty of inspiration that could be adapted to your wedding design needs. Stop by...spend some time getting inspired!
-LM

The Real Deal

2009-04-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Many of the wedding porn loving people out there have already seen this wedding probably a bagillion times...but since I have a loyal group of newbies visiting this spot, I thought I would share this oldie but goodie with you.
Sometime next week, I will be featuring photographer Elizabeth Messina as part of the "Who Will Tell Our Story" series, but until then let's take a peek at her wedding from a couple of years back. It is truly fantastic! Not to mention, I find it kind of interesting to see how a wedding photographer goes from behind the camera to down the aisle. I'm not sure what she had it mind, but this wedding was romantic, romantic and more romantic. Enjoy!

images by Thayer Allyson Gowdy (another one of my absolute favorite photographers!) via Style Me Pretty

Saturday Surprise

2009-04-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

Surprise! It's an inspiration board!...and on a Saturday!

I know this is a poor attempt at making you love me despite my April blogging hiatus...but stick around, there is plenty of fun stuff to come!

-LM

row 1: i.anton, leigh miller (guessing)

row 2: jose villa, thayer allyson gowdy

row 3: martha stewart weddings, our labor of love

row 4: brides magazine (guess), me

Telling the Story...part trois

2009-04-24T08:00:00.001-05:00

I think I have narrowed our photography search down to a "Top 10"...so prepare yourself for some serious eye candy. Today, let's take a look at Leigh Miller. I've been positively obsessed with her for the past 9 months and I doubt I will ever stop. Based in California, but taking her camera all around the world, Miller's eye is sharp, romantic and spot on. And between us photographers: this lady really knows how to color balance.

And the true testament to my love: her pictures of beach weddings almost convinced me to run straight out of this country to any coast that would have us. But, one particular wedding she photographed stopped me in converse tracks...we looked at those pictures and knew that not only was the venue we were considering (Barr Mansion) absolutely perfect, but that "rustic romance" was exactly what suited us.

I adore you Leigh Miller...will you travel to Austin and do us the great honor?

-LM

p.s.

Happy Friday!

Say Green!

2009-04-04T08:13:00.000-05:00

An article about Barr Mansion (our venue) and it's wonderful green ways! And isn't this picture of their food yummy looking!

Picture by Schmitt Photo

Yum

2009-04-02T08:19:00.000-05:00

Mini Chicken Pot Pies...need I say more?
In my wildest dreams I make these for our cocktail hour. Realistically, I'd make 30 of these, get bored and end up walking down the aisle with pastry in my hair.

I think this image is from Martha Stewart Weddings.

Our Colors

2009-04-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

God forbid, I change my mind!

Guests

2009-03-31T08:00:00.000-05:00

I want to add some variety to this space and I think guest bloggers would be a nice addition here. I know of a few awesome chicas who I think would be fabulous. Hopefully, I can snag some precious time from them and bring them over to the b&c.

Any suggestions?

Further notes

2009-03-30T08:00:00.001-05:00

on my dream dress. When I talk about my obsession with sleeves, I'm always thinking of this dress.

The sad part: I don't know who made this beauty. I have some guesses in mind...maybe the infamous Monique Lhuillier or maybe Paloma Blanca (both designers use lace in the most beautiful of ways).
Regardless, she's my baby and I want her for our wedding day. Besides, my boo would totally love to see my ass in this dress...it's right up his alley. (I know you don't need to know that information but I'm sharing nonetheless).

I wonder what I'll actually end up wearing. Someone be outrageously kind and send this dress straight to my front door. :)

Just when I thought I had it all figured out...

2009-03-28T11:00:00.000-05:00

If you haven't visited 100 Layer Cake, do so immediately! All the content is fantastic but I nearly die every time I view their inspiration boards...they're fantastic!

We just decided on our color scheme (literally 3 days ago) but I saw this board and wanted to reconsider...I guess my indecisiveness is alive and well (this is the hazzard of consuming wedding porn). Luckily our look is already pretty close to this so maybe I will contain myself and not rework the whole thing!

I digress: Visit 100 Layer Cake...it kicks beautiful ass.

p.s.
I'm immensely jealous that I didn't come up with a board style like this...delightful beyond words.

board via 100 Layer Cake

Oh yeah, the fun shit has begun

2009-03-27T08:00:00.001-05:00

I'm not a designer but I am pretty damn excited that I put together a little monogram for us. And my boo and I finally found a color scheme we could get down with. In my opinion, this is the good stuff that accompanies planning a wedding...lovin' it.
Have a great weekend!

p.s.
Alice this ampersand is for you!

More Photography

2009-03-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

I definitely have an affinity for analog photography especially when vintage techniques are involved. Even though I have to work mostly digital for assignment jobs (due to time and costs), my digital post-production style is heavily influenced by vintage methods of capturing and processing.

The reason I mention this is because you will definitely see a theme in all the photographers I post here: they have much of the same aesthetic present in their work. One of the teams that really brings the analog love alive One Love Photo.

We love them and my wedding day dreams are often illustrated with their photos.
Enjoy!

A Little Piece of Heaven

2009-03-24T08:00:00.001-05:00

This is pretty damn close to how I imagine my dream dress (except my dream includes 3/4 sleeves). I really don't have much to say about this sketch except that I think it's dreamy.

My Ladies #3

2009-03-23T08:00:00.002-05:00

This might be my favorite of the series, thus far. I love the greenish-blue mixed with slate and gold jewelry accents. Best of all, this one seems the most comfy yet still stylish...just formal enough. Yeah, this one is probably my favorite.

My Ladies #3 - by lo1282 on Polyvore.com

My Ladies...again

2009-03-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

Another Polyvore creation for my ladies. A couple more might pop up over the next few days and then let the voting begin!

NOTE: though my awesome ladies already know this, let me clarify for the blog community: I do not believe in micro-managing every detail of the attire of our bridal party. Additionally, I'm not a fan of dressing groups of women up in identical outfits. These are purely for fun and inspiration. I have no doubt that my amazingly cool and unique girlfriends will bring their own style and grace to their outfits on our day. Oh, and I totally don't expect them to purchase the $2,000 Jimmy Choo pumps featured below...but shit, if they can roll like that then more power to them!

My Ladies #2 - by lo1282 on Polyvore.com

Yellow is the color of my true love's hair in the morning...

2009-03-20T08:00:00.001-05:00

This probably goes without saying but I'll say it anyway: Colors are important. When it comes to their use in design, they have the amazing ability to communicate a tone and attitude...and they can even dictate the moods of the people who interact with them.

Well the time has come for us to choose our wedding colors and I am excited to do so...but this might be another journey into my indecisive-wedding-planning mind. Below are a few color combos...let me know what you think. How do you pick colors for your events?

New Obsession...and time sucker

2009-03-20T02:56:00.004-05:00

I will probably lose about 10 precious hours of my weekend playing with my new favorite toy: Polyvore. It started out slow over the past year, an occasional browse here and there. As of last night it became a full on obsession. I have started my account and have been collecting content for hours. Now, instead of just adoring all the fantastic contributions from the fashion savvy users; now I'm actually making my own boards.

So here is my first creation...a very rough start I admit (but what great fun it is to try my hand not only at styling but also layout design). This board is for my fabulous bridesmaids aka "My Ladies" on our wedding day. I have a few more in mind, but tell me what you think.

Have a great weekend!

My Ladies #1 - by lo1282 on Polyvore.com

Venue Greatness

2009-03-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

Every Sunday afternoon I like to spend a few hours with my Google Reader catching up with the 60 or so blogs I subscribe to. As mentioned in previous posts, Southern Weddings always has a ton of great entries featuring real weddings from creative couples and to my great delight our recently booked venue Barr Mansion was included in last weeks posts. Another bonus, I was introduced to another great photographer: Tinywater Photography...the list of photographers grows by the minute!

These pictures really bring to life what we loved (at first sight) about the venue. I am beyond excited!

Did you know

2009-03-18T22:58:00.003-05:00

Harlem pants (aka Hammer Pants) are all the rage again? Normally, I wouldn't be able to picture myself in these infamous pants, but thanks to Polyvore, I'm ready to rock 'em.

That's how I'd wear harem pants - by Hungandy on Polyvore.com

Who Will Tell Our Story

2009-03-18T08:00:00.001-05:00

Not sure if I have mentioned this before but I have spent the past few years photographing weddings (see: laurenmcclurephoto.com) and due to that occupation I am more than aware of the fact that there a ton (seriously, a ton) of outstanding wedding photographers in this country. Every time I tell someone that I'm engaged their first question is "Who will be your wedding photographer?!"

So, now that we have tackled the great challenge that was finding our ideal location the next feat will be approaching soon: finding a photographer! This topic will definitely pop up a few more times, but let's get things rolling with my current obsession: Max Wanger.

Isn't he delightful...and I really think the word "delightful" is the most perfect adjective in this instance. Wonder how he feels about making a visit to Austin?

Dress Me Up

2009-03-17T11:30:00.001-05:00

I adore Jenny Yoo's collection of simply sweet bridesmaid dresses and now I want to give a shout out to her for being super smart and intuitive. Not only can you dress your ladies in some of the finest dresses they will ever own but now you can find a great bargain for yourself. Yoo is offering a collection "Bridal Alternatives" which essentially is her bridesmaid line re-purposed into whites and ivories for brides.

I love this dress for myself and even better it comes in duchess satin (yaya)...the price is nice too:

Below are the bridesmaid dresses I've been eyeing for the past year...ladies what do you think?

FINALLY!!!!!!!!

2009-03-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

Drumroll please...we finally made a decision and BOOKED a wedding location! As some of you know this great debate has been going on since April 28th (2008) and as noted in previous posts: we have considered a bagillion locations coast to coast. Well it's all over now, the date is set and the deposit has been made...there's no turning back now.

Here's the skinny:
In February 2010 we will marry in Austin, TX at the Barr Mansion...it's a beauty! Weather permitting (you never really know in Texas...always have a backup plan) we will take our vows in the immaculate gardens, cocktail reception under a big ol' pecan tree and reception in the magnificent Artisan Ballroom (on the same grounds).

This place is spectacular for a variety of reasons, but two in particular please me to no end:

It's historic...my boo and I love old ass buildings! The mansion was built in 1898.
It's the first USDA certified organic food service venue in Texas (actually, I think it's the first wedding venue of this type in the nation)!

Essentially it's pure awesome, wrapped up in convenience (it's essentially a 1-stop-shop since they are handling our food, cakes, floral...and the existing furniture is gorgeous!). Living up to the great ATX tradition, it's also mom & pop owned...and it's near downtown but seems like it's in the middle of nowhere.

I could go on and on about how we feel about this spot and their services...but spend 5 minutes on their site and you will know exactly what we are so happy (read: RELIEVED) about.

YAYAYAYAYAYA....let the fun stuff begin!

I Know I've Been Distant...

2009-03-11T19:33:00.002-05:00

The day job is keeping me entirely too busy…and far too stressed out. I think I might miss my original day job that required little brain power and absolutely no stressing. But that job couldn’t pay my bills much less my love of cameras.

Anyways, I will be revisiting soon…with a big announcement and lots of goodies. Until then, how about some vintage wedding pics?! Stay tuned and stay awesome.

Love Notes #3

2009-02-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

If Russell sees this post he will probably think I am making some sort of sexual inuendo...maybe I am.

Happy Anniversary baby...best half decade eva!

Happy Friday!

Image via We Heart It

Love Notes #2

2009-02-26T08:00:00.001-06:00

Whoa...this shit is beautiful and bananas. But I would do this with my boo and not even act remotely scared...mostly because I know he would be terrified and I love to pretend I am not scared when I know he is.

kiss kiss kiss and all that gooey shit that makes others gag (but makes us swoon). Hah! I love loving you.

p.s.
I don't even know if Russell reads this blog...I know he visits the my photo blog daily (and uses the images as his desktop wallpaper...he's so sweet) but I can't imagine him being so enthralled with wedding stuff. I don't even care, I'll declare my love for him all day everyday wherever whenever.

Okay, enough of me.

Image via We Heart It

Love Notes #1

2009-02-25T08:00:00.000-06:00

I know, I know...this is my first post of the week. It's just one of those crazed weeks where balancing/juggling is not my strong suit. As a result, I've decided to spend the rest of this week focused on love notes or something like that.

Additionally, the remainder of this week is a tribute to my boo...it's our 5 year anniversary on Friday! Saturday we are traveling to Austin and guess what are doing? Visiting what we think might be the location of our dreams (or at least the dream that includes Austin Texas). I hope it lives up to our expectation, otherwise I swear we are running off to some remote locale because I am desperately tired of searching...seriously, I'm ready to sign some paperwork and get to the fun stuff, like crafting!

I'm over the moon for you sweets! Thanks for a beautiful half decade!

Image via We Heart It

Yum

2009-02-20T08:00:00.002-06:00

An easy and delicious favor idea!

Image by Jenna Walker Photographers via Wedding Ideas

Love It

2009-02-19T08:00:00.002-06:00

Imagine the bridal portrait opportunities...you enveloped under the canopy of this enormous, gorgeous leaf! Tip of the day: look for inspiration in nature....it never hurts to base your style off of mother earth's natural elements.

Image by Phillip Newton via {frolic!}

The Right Pink

2009-02-18T08:00:00.000-06:00

As always, The Bride's Guide is filled with inspiration for your big day! I love this board for making pink not-so-scary but really inviting. These colors are great for any season and provide tons of mileage for incorporating throughout your stylish event. The garlands are a nice touch for any bridal shower...so very kitsch and cute...but not tacky! And I just want to jump inside that chocolate cake with it's velvety icing!

Board via The Bride's Guide

Quirky Ease

2009-02-17T08:00:00.000-06:00

Skip the grande, glass vases filled with goldfish and stones...opt for something within budget and with a lot more originality! If you've got 6 months, then you have plenty of time to collect some unique canisters like this. Or better yet, search ebay for vintage containers that compliment your overall style/theme.

Thank you Martha Stewart & The Bride's Guide

Love Birds...again

2009-02-16T08:00:00.001-06:00

I love birds! There is something about their robust chests and of course, I am envious of their ability to fly and nest within the loftiest of trees (or in the case of those annoying pigeons, within the crevices of our thatched roof...I don't like pigeons). Anyways, I will probably post about love birds at least once a month, I can't get enough!

Stationery from Egg Press

Another Southern Weddings Post

2009-02-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

Authentic, unique & gorgeous...I don't think there is a better combination.

Photography by Heartistic Foto
Via Southern Wedding Magazine

Moments like this...

2009-02-10T08:00:00.001-06:00

rock our world.

image via le love

My Head Might Explode

2009-02-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

The best part about designing our wedding celebration (besides the vows and the gooey loveness)...the crafts! And just when I thought my to-do list of crafts couldn't get any longer Martha Stewart went beyond my wildest dreams by publishing: the Martha Stewart Encyclopedia of Crafts. Due for release on March 31st...I might just skip work for a week so I can read the whole thing from cover to cover...and then attempt 30% of activities.

I can see it now: Russell and I covered in burns from a malfunctioning hot glue gun and Della Bea (the dog) running through the house with tulle stuck to her paws.

Yeah, peonies are my favorite bouquet flower too

2009-02-05T08:00:00.000-06:00

Magenta peonies...really, I could stare at them forever. In fact, I never really cared for this color until I fell hard for peonies in this shade. This bouquet manages to be both unique and traditional...a rare mix that I don't see enough of. Lovin' it.

Image via {frolic!}

Lights

2009-02-04T08:00:00.002-06:00

Cheap & Chic (light)...a great combo! These types of lanterns can be found in abundance, Pearl River is one of my favorite suppliers. I love how soft and modern lanterns are...they can easily fit into any decor scheme.

Image from Fete via The Bride's Guide: Ideas from the Editors of Martha Stewart Weddings

Your Sunroof or Mine?

2009-02-03T08:00:00.002-06:00

An engagement portrait idea.

Image by Rodney Smith via Black*Eiffel

Are Your Ears Ringing?

2009-02-02T08:00:00.001-06:00

Are you giving your ladies earrings as a gift for spending all that hard-earned time and love on your special day? This is a great way to present your nifty (yeah, I couldn't think of a better adjective) jewelry gift...and perhaps not too time consuming on your behalf.

Infinity Braids

2009-01-30T08:00:00.001-06:00

Which one of my lovely ladies wants to sport this hairdo?

From Mary Ruffle via inspirazione*

Red Rover Come Over

2009-01-29T08:00:00.002-06:00

Another great story from Southern Weddings magazine. The use of red is nice and clean...a simple decorative thread of color never hurt anyone!

Photos by emilie inc

Totes 4Eva!

2009-01-28T08:00:00.001-06:00

I heart tote bags. Always fashionable, always a great DIY project/present. This one is perfect for my friend Alice, who relocated there last year. Alice was practically born to live in Portland, with her love of biking, yoga and clever design...this tote is for you lady!

Tote from CafePress via {frolic!}

Neutral Ground

2009-01-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

I thoroughly enjoyed making this board. I love anything that is rustic and slightly modern at the same time (the above cake and tablescape is a good example of this). Personally, I think this board suits a variety of venues. Obviously, it's great for a barnyard wedding, but I can see it being carried out on a beach as well.

Credit guesses: Martha Stewart Weddings, The Knot, Brides, Melissa Sweet

Art Deco Winter

2009-01-26T08:00:00.001-06:00

I don't think this board needs much explanation. Check out dafont for some type inspiration, find a venue built in the 1920's or 1930's and don't forget about one of the most popular flowers of that time: calla lilies.

Credit guesses: Brides, Brides UK, The Knot, Fabulous Stationery

Love Birds...yeah, I'm that kind of nerd

2009-01-24T08:00:00.000-06:00

Some of my dear girlfriends might be able to recall the "lovebirds tangent" of Fall 2008. Intertwined with my love of all things mid-century modern and an unexplainable, early on-set case of spring fever, I became utterly obsessed with creating a lovebirds monogram for our nuptials. While visiting one of my favorite blogs {frolic!}, I fell for the bird all over again when I stumbled upon this:
Dutch Door Press via {frolic!}

What's your sign, baby?

2009-01-23T08:00:00.001-06:00

A visit to The Bride's Guide is always rewarding, Darcy Miller (Editorial Director of Martha Stewart Weddings) never fails to deliver some clever and elegant DIY project. This trip rewarded Russ and I with a chuckle and of course a quick little discussion about...you guessed it: locations!

Your Wedding Astrologer by Karen Christino picked some nice locales for this Capricorn (me) and Sagitarius (my boo). Our favorites are highlighted. Maybe the location discussion has just grown to a monster that will eat both of us!

Okay, I'm kidding...this has had no impact on our choices or lack thereof.

Sagittarius Honeymoons: You want to go everywhere and do everything, but you especially love knowledge and adventure. Go to a Buddhist monastery, on a road trip, railroad tour, safari, or to a horse-riding resort. If it piques your zest for exploration, it’ll make you happy.

Sagittarius Cities: Atlanta, Georgia; Jackson, Mississippi; Kansas City, Kansas; Long Beach, California;Montgomery, Alabama; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; San Jose, California.

Sagittarius Countries: Barbados, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Iceland, Finland, Kenya, Surinam, Sweden, United Kingdom.

Capricorn Honeymoons: You’re sure to have planned your honeymoon well in advance and prefer more sedate and relaxed vacations. Try visiting a mountain resort, staying at a lighthouse or rustic lodge, going on a sleigh ride, or touring ancient places like Greek ruins or Machu Picchu in Peru.

Capricorn Cities: Anaheim, California; Austin, Texas; Bethlehem, Pennsylvania; Cambridge, Massachusetts; Charlotte, North Carolina; Cincinnati, Ohio; Corpus Christi, Texas; Mobile, Alabama; New York, New York; St. Petersburg, Florida; Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Capricorn Countries: Australia, Cameroon, the Czech Republic, Indonesia, Lebanon, Slovakia, Syria, Taiwan.

Sleeves...the obsession

2009-01-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

There are two things that instantly make me fall in love with a wedding dress: pockets and...sleeves!!! Pockets are somewhat difficult to find and perhaps this tomboy doesn't need a wedding dress with pockets...rose lip balm and quarters floating around. But the sleeve love I can't dismiss.

I think this all started with the quintessential east coast beauty Carolyn Bessette Kennedy and an outfit she wore in 1999 which consequently had a profound impact on what I wore to my senior prom (I might swallow my pride and dig up that old pic for a post here someday). Though I have recently fallen in a deep, secret love with a sleeveless dress, I can't imagine not wearing the most perfect little lace jacket with it...beach or city street be damned!...I'm wearing sleeves!

-LM

Global Chic All Over You

2009-01-21T13:46:00.002-06:00

Southern Weddings Magazine is going bezerk with greatness and this inspiration board is a total testament to what is great about this blog & magazine. Definitely spend some time on their site and you will see exactly what I'm talking about.
Inspiration board via Southern Weddings

Decisions Decisions and No Decisions

2009-01-21T01:50:00.002-06:00

As this blog description indicates I am an indecisive bride...and it's not just me, my groom is in the middle of a major LD debate (nerd alert) in his head as well. Perhaps its an exaggeration to say I'm an indecisive bride since this is not the case in most instances. There just happens to be one whopping decision we can't make and it's putting a major blockade on almost all the fun stuff (an 8 month engagement is kind of fun...especially when you ignore all the planning junk for the first 4-7 months).

The debate: location location location.

Let me take you on a brief journey through the rollercoaster thoughts of Lo & Russ:

Dallas (our hometown)
Palm Springs (my dream US vacation spot)
Austin (our regular vacation spot)
Jamaica (known for their all-inclusive amenities, blue waters and super friendly demeanors)
Cabo San Lucas (pretty rocks & sunsets)
Riveria Maya (nearby, easy, breezy us)
Sea Island - The Cloister (very fond memories from one of our first major vacations together)
Puerto Rico (good times without a passport)
Anguilla (so enticing it hurts)
Belize (seriously, it's Belize!!!)
Dominican Republic (we really did adore that story in Budget Travel)
and there are probably a couple more!

Endless hours of research and pro/con lists completed...a million nosh fests and bottles of wine long forgotten to accompany us.

The irony of all: We both know (fairly well, in my humble opinion) who we are as people and as a couple. We know what we love together and what makes us overwhelmed with glee...yet this decision weighs on us like a wool blanket in a Houston summer.

The truth is that we just want to tell each other how much we digg (2nd nerd alert) eachother while spending some quality time with friends and family. We want good times and cheer and last but not least: we don't want a bazillion dollars worth of debt (because we think that is just plain stupid). And really, I want to get this decision over and done with so I can go back to dreaming of ways to smother my boo with gooey loveness.

Question of the day: where on earth are we going to get hitched?

A dozen, homemade, sprinkled with love cupcakes or muffins to the 1st person who helps us decide!...really, that's all I got to offer, but who doesn't like pastries sprinkled with love?

EUREKA!!!!!!

2009-01-17T10:00:00.000-06:00

I'm completely tempted to let this design inspire every single design aspect of our future affair. Gorgeous, clean, earthy...lovin' it! Found these over at Minted...my current fave paper supplier/source of inspiration.

Austin Venues

2009-01-16T10:00:00.000-06:00

I don't like traffic, thus it's imperative that I find ONE fantastic venue and save everyone some time and energy (which can be better spent on enjoying the festivities). Here are a few of those outrageously gorgeous venues I spoke of in a prior post.

I have yet to visit most of these in person, so there will be plenty of info/reviews on that in the not so distant future.

If you know anything about these venues drop me a line via email or in a comment! Thanks!

Barr Ma n sion

Lakeway Resort & Spa

The Allan House
One World Theatre
Vintage Villas

More coming!!!

Country Greens

2009-01-15T10:00:00.000-06:00

MINI INSPIRE: Country greens...with a splash of lilac!
Credit Guesses: Brides, Amsale, The Knot, Martha Stewart Weddings

School Daze

2009-01-14T10:00:00.000-06:00

Loving this set from Simple Song Designs, a former PR pro and self taught designer/letterpress printer. I love the idea of a School-themed event for the school-sweethearts couple!

Jewelry Love #2

2009-01-13T10:00:00.000-06:00

Lots of quality options from a source I adore: Sundance Affiliated with the acclaimed Sundance Film Festival & Robert Redford (and all of his old-school cutie, outstanding filmaking, environment loving self).

I'm all about efficient online shopping and that means: the One-Stop Shop. Cool, if you like the major department stores (incessant discount opportunities) but for the most part, I love beauties like Etsy, TWIST and the like (more to come).

Sundance is great about offering some great, intimate little finds at all price points.

Enjoy!
-LM

p.s.
what's your favorite One-Stop Shop?

Tasty Inspiration

2009-01-12T10:00:00.000-06:00

Posted at Southern Weddings Magazine, photos by Paloma Images.

Fantastic Logo

2009-01-09T16:53:00.004-06:00

I think I might want to adapt this logo for Russell & I. I adore the monogram...and this might be the first monogram I have ever really liked (in regards to our event). YAYAYAYAYA...inspiration is everywhere.

BTW: I heard these candles are really fantastic!

image via The DieLine

Jewelry Love

2009-01-09T10:00:00.000-06:00

All jewelry is from TWIST...one of my fave places to onestop-shop from some of the best artisans in the world! An absolute jewel...hahaha, my puns are silly.

Palm Swingin'

2009-01-08T10:00:00.000-06:00

INSPIRE: Palm Swingin'!
Still haven't dropped my love for Palm Springs...the locale provides a ton of inspiration from all the mid-century goodness I've gushed over before to this take on it. Picture a cozy and lush cocktail party at Bob Hope's former estate.

Some guesses at credits: KenzieKate, Sofia Mini, Oscar de la Renta, Brides Magazine, The Knot & Martha Stewart Weddings

Love This

2009-01-07T16:26:00.001-06:00

image via: Le Love

Dresses for My Ladies part Deux

2008-12-29T02:30:00.000-06:00

Just a little note:
I have a hard time calling my ladies "maids"...they are "my ladies" or "my chicas of supreme support".

Below, the infamous wrap dress that is making all the ladies go wild. Butter By Nadia is in 1 hyphenated word: AWESOME-TOWN!

Location Location Location

2008-12-29T01:01:00.000-06:00

I have been practically obsessing over where to host our nuptials. While Dallas has a booming wedding market and a ton of venue options, none of them were the perfect fit. Then I started thinking about Austin. Austin and the surrounding Hill Country are filled to the brim with gorgeous venues that incorporate the outstanding landscape (something I think Dallas severely lacks).

For one reason or another I started to drift from Austin, the capital of our Lonestar state and began contemplating everything with a beautiful coast and then somehow I became overwhelmingly in love with Palm Springs. I could gush about why Palm Springs is the absolute bomb all night long…but I will save that for a future blog (I’m sure I won’t be able to refrain from posting).

{Pictures above via Style Me Pretty, photos by Meg Smith}

Today, I had the pleasure of spending a few hours with my ever-creative mother and later in the day a quick brainstorm with my best friend/lady of honor Dani. Both my mother and Dani led me back to Austin has the destination/locale of choice.

So, I think Austin will be the place! It’s convenient for a vast majority of our guests. It’s a regular vacation spot for Russell and I. It’s a city we have always adored…I suppose a decision has been made…this is the first!!!

{Locations from l to r: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, One World Theatre and Trois Estates}

All You Need

2008-12-18T21:38:00.000-06:00

It's easy to fall into that trap of buying every wedding related printed resource on the planet...but really that is unecessary...and the cost builds up quicker than you think. Couldn't you spend that same money on some fabulous outfit accessories or those gorgeous Louboutin's you've been drooling over?

Build the perfect foundation with the following...and find the rest of your inspiration on the web (there are infinite amounts to be found):

Excellent Destination Resource

2008-12-12T21:30:00.000-06:00

IMHO: the hands-down best destination wedding planning resource:

Filled with checklists making it practically impossible to forget a detail, advice and all those tiny details you would never think of. Awesome!

Purchase this book here!

My Ladies #1

2008-12-10T21:05:00.000-06:00

I am all about letting my ladies choose what they wear. There is no way that I'm going to make the women I love the most wear some hideous outfit they feel uncomfortable in. I want my ladies to look smokin' hot and the only way to ensure that is to give them choices.

But, I won't lie...I like a little control. I admit that I have a vision (or a gazillion visions) for this particular day. Plus, they would ask me "What should I wear" no matter what...so I think providing a plethora of options in a couple of colors is the best route.

I love you ladies...here are a few choices...more to come. NOTE: not an example of color choices.

p.s.
All of these dresses are Jim Hjelm designs

Dress Talk #1

2008-12-05T20:30:00.000-06:00

So, I got this braniac idea...an attempt at narrowing down/figuring something out. I think it might be a little silly, but I think I am far past that anyways.

I asked My Boo if he would look at a handful of dresses and pick which one he would like to see me in on our very special day. Most of the dresses have a distinct tone (in my point of view) and deserve a particular setting. The not-so-grand idea is that whichever dress we choose will somehow dictate the location, setting, theme, whatever of our wedding day.

I have yet to show him the pictures, but this is what I'm working on...let me know what you think.

Oh, and for the most part I seem to be totally obsessed with Jim Hjelm's designs (all dresses below are Jim Hjelm. I adore his choice of laces and the overall style. While I'm unsure as to whether I will purchase a dress versus making one with my mother, these are some of the styles I'm diggin'.

Introductions

2008-12-01T11:30:00.000-06:00

Welcome to The Blog & Chain. I’m Lauren, indecisive bride, incessant planner, double time working gal and collector of hobbies. This blog is an attempt at figuring out what I really want, what I really need…a virtual scrapbook for my wedding planning adventure.

Currently, I am planning about four different weddings. Not because I have four weddings to plan but because I can see that many weddings for my boo and I. I’ve done some preliminary pros and cons lists, crunched some numbers and collected more visual inspiration than I can handle. Now, I’m stuck trying to choose between all the options.

Perhaps the beautiful wedding blog community will help me sort all this stuff out and if not hopefully someone can find inspiration for their own event.

We’ve got a lot to figure out and everyone says the same thing when I inquire for advice “Whatever you want, you’re the bride”…a sweet sentiment that I can’t believe so many people say. So, this journey is looking like it’s going to be a exhilarating ride!

The Cast:
Bride & Incessant Planner: Lauren aka Lo
Groom & Endless Supporter: Russell aka My Boo

Details:
Nothing has been determined except that I don’t want to spend a bazillion dollars on this event because there are a plethora of other things I rather spend my money on like: a trip to Paris, a return trip to Argentina or liberating myself from the 9 to 5 in order to pursue photography full-time.