Invites: Beautiful detail

Stationary is a really important element for me, especially the invites - not only do they set the theme, establish the level of formality and make sure everyone has all the relevant informatin, but they also offer the first (well, second after the save the date) chance for me to put my creative stamp on the day and pour my passion into the detail.

The original plan for Save the Dates was that where possible we would sent an email with a jpg attachment, people would benefit from all the design, we would save on printing and postage and our guests would always know where it was - in their inbox! We would print and send a few hard copies to people, in particular our grandparents and siblings etc, people who we knew either didn't have email or who would like to keep a copy.
However this plan was thrown out the window, and it was heavily suggested that we 'should' print & post them to at least one family & if we had to do it for some then I was going to do it for all.

After a brief think, I decided that this would not mean a change of plan - the save-the-dates would remain computer designed with no hand crafting other than cutting up the paper. Which left me with a bit of a problem: How do I produce save-the-date cards exclusively technologically, but still provide continuity with the handmade invitations to follow?

So we came to the first decissions on details for our day: If we chose a couple of fonts that were not standard issue, and purchased beautiful paper and had one colour accenting all elements, then the stationary will coordinate beautifully, especially as all the invite content would have to be produced on the computer - as much as I love doing things by hand, I do not have the time nor the calligraphy skills to hand write 70(ish) invites.

The colour used to accent the designs

So after some fussing and moaning - BH doesn't like fake handwriting fonts, where as I do and felt they would work as we are having the reception in a medieval building.
There was some workings about what colour to use with what will be a very neutral pallet on the day.
And then then was the conversations about what paper; fortunately I had done a table plan for his work and had used some laid paper which he liked the texture of, I also bit the bullet and using the samples from pda cards I ordered some card and examples of the type of invite I would like to make.

We had come to some agreements. We went for white laid paper (some irridecent will also be used in other stationary) a font which looks a little bit like calligraphy and a lovely simpler font - both downloaded especially, and a shade of purple.

The two fonts we will be using for our staioary

I also wanted some sort of picture on the save the date - one design featured a Scottish thistle and for another I took a photo of the church and played with it in Picasa until it created a lovely scetch effect. When I consulted with BH he really didn't like the thistle.

So here we are, the Save the Dates have been put in the post to family and friends who have a role on the day. The decissions are set in stone (well card) and it is official the wedding is happening.

Original photo of church

Final 'sketch'

TTNF ~ Kate xxx

Photgrapher update

I have a fabulous, wonderful Better Half. After seeing online that the photographer I really wanted had put his prices up and after some gental pursuation he made me see that with some more intesive time on the internet (not just following Facebook adverts) we should find someone locally.

Serveral dozen websites and 3 wedding fayres later a lovely guy came to visit me at my mum's, a local man he was enthused by the locations we had in the centre of town, Guildhall and the Cathedral Ruins, as he has yet to shoot there as he is now based more towards Birmingham.
I loved his work, his patience with my questions and his honesty.

TTFN ~ Kate (very happy bride) xx

A 'Gold' Turn

The Table plan, Alphabetical list
and a table name

A couple of weeks ago my Better Half's work hosted a annual fundraiser (he works in politics), a Gala Dinner, that also was raising money for SportsAid. He asked me if I would mind designing and making a table plan and that the theme was Olympics.
Thinking it would be fun and would fill some of my time before I returned to work I agreed to help, and offered to do the names for the tables.

I decided to go for Gold, Silver and Brozne and the organising commitee had said that they would like the tables named after Olympic and Paralympic sports. So after a trip to trusted Hobbycraft for resources and a long search on the London 2012 website for games; I was given the shock of my life - this event was for 250 people with 24 tables (arrrrgggghhh.........). Meaning that alphabetical lists would be needed, as too many people to only have a table plan and their wouldn't be space on the board for both.
After lots of playing around I managed to fit all 24 circles on to the A1 board.

It was then on to the computer to design the cirlces for the table, the title pannel and the bits for the alphabetical list. Fortunately I discovered that putting a grey line on the design I was able to line up my guide for my Xcut Shape Cutting System so that the text was central.

After about 40 hours work and some drama as people kept dropping out and others trying to fill the empty spaces. I had an A1 table plan, 2 A2 Alphabetical lists and 24 table names with 3 facts about the sport on the reverse as an icebreaker.

The Table Plan: 24 tables &
the stage doubled up as the title

One of the Alphabetical Lists - the other had the gold &
silver backing swapped around

 As there were a few empty seats, I was invited to join the event and so dug out my lovely bridesmaids dress from my sister's wedding (which I was just about able to squeeze into) and threw my hair into a messy bun.

With James' Gold Medal
from Sydney 2000

Not only was it a lovely meal but James Cracknell (phwoar!), Zac Purchase and Rachel Morris were there as guests of honour. I didn't get a chance to meet the rowers, but James was lovely enough to pass around his gold medals so we could all have a close look.
I spent some time with the lovely Rachel Morris, she is a hand cyclist and a wonderful and inspiring woman. If you haven't heard of her, please do look her up and don't forget to cheer her (and Zac) on this summer.

BH & I with the Olympic (Gold) and Paralympic (Silver) torches

And Finally....

I have managed to find some time to do some crafting and take some photos, watch my Facebook page for more info and to see my creations.

TTFN ~ Kate x

Decisions and Dilemmas

Oh my, it's been a while since I've posted. Since I was last on here it's been a tad crazy; I've been in hospital, crafted and begun to plan the wedding, as well getting back to everyday life and work after op. Over the next week or so I hope to update you on the crafting, but today I will begin to update you on wedding related bits.

When I started to think about planning a wedding I knew the 'ToDo' list would be long, but I had not realised that the more stressful list was entitled 'To Decide'...
when? where? colours & themes? numbers? how involved do I want to be creatively speaking? how traditional? how formal? (breathe...) what to include? what are the most important elements? how much input do my mum, sister, friends & in laws have? how much of a surprise do I want to create? how DIY am I prepared to go? ...?...?...?

Many of these will be influenced by the fact that I love to go the extra mile in detail to make an event rememberable. I want to create a day that reflects us and that I've poured my heart into - but at the same time I have a busy year with work so can't take too much on and will need support from people.

So I come to my first dilemma, how much of my plans do I share on here and my Facebook page before the event?
I want record the journey and have other creative peeps feed into my ideas, but I still want my friends and family to have many surprises on the day. Therefore I will share elements of detail, ideas from other places and drafts as I plan and then give you all the crafting detail after the day.

 Which brings me to the first and most obvious decisions- date and venues.

Snowy Lane

WHEN?

We are getting married in January 2013. When we sat down we realised we had two choices, January or end June/July, so we went for January so we weren't waiting too long before we are husband and wife. It also means Better Half had less time of hearing about wedding and being asked lots of questions on opinions he doesn't have.
The other big factor is that I have always (well since I was about 6) wanted a winter wedding and had so many beautiful ideas for our day, that just wouldn't work in other seasons; and non of them would work in a 'Christmas in July' quirky way.
Just to be awkward: I don't want snow, just a beautiful frosty day.

WHERE?

 We had three possible options for the church and early on had narrowed it down to 2, the village church where my parents live and Coventry Cathedral. Both are very beautiful and are very important to me and after some discussion we decided that the more intimate church would suit the type of day we wanted - with our friends and family being the focus of the celebrations, not the building, feeling close and involved as we exchange vows.

The village church c. 1800-1890

The other advantage of the village church (as well as being able to walk to the service) is that I can make lots of beautiful decorations that will compliment the space, rather than be lost. Tbh I have far too many ideas now and I run the risk of the beauty of the church being lost in my crafts (eek!)


For the reception venue we knew what we couldn't do and what style of establishment wasn't to our taste. 
Marquee was out of the question (even if we had chosen a summer wedding) as it would mean hiring a location and make it too expensive. We didn't want a venue that feels like a conference centre, nor a village hall. Even though we don't have a HUGE budget our parents are being generous and we have saved hard to fund this and therefore want something that would be special for us.
We are both history geeks, National Trust members & BH has a degree in medieval history - we wanted something that reflected our passion for beautiful old buildings, that suited the time of year and somewhere I could add my creative flair.

We dutifully looked around a handful of country house hotels, but non of them quite fitted what we were looking for:
x One was too small
x Another was removed from the list within 5 minutes, no effort had gone into the open day and the annoying photographer (with big white background and flash umbrella that went off very 30 seconds) was the last straw
? If we could take the beautiful main hall from one of the hotels and put it in the place of the 'purpose built' complex at the forth, then we would have the perfect setting for a summer wedding. x Alas we couldn't do that leaving us with a beautiful hall on the end of a beautiful shell of a house and landscaped gardens that was let down buy its fraying carpets, grubby walls and over conference friendly layout. Or a lovely, well maintained hotel which felt cosy with a sense of luxury, that was in keeping with the period and style of the house, but to accommodate our guests we would have to use the modern block stuck on the end of the garden which didn't fit in with the rest of the property, or our tastes.

St Mary's Guildhall

The venue we finally went for was St Mary's Guildhall Coventry a hidden gem in the centre of Coventry. One of the few remaining medieval civic builds still standing (tho significantly restored after WWII) in the country. A reasonably small venue, with only a small courtyard of outside space; it has beautiful stained glass windows, high carved and painted ceiling and stunning tapestries. It is near Coventry Cathedral, over the lane from the ruins which we will use for photographs and features a vaulted undercroft for drinks receptions etc.
I am so excited - sorry WE are so excited. The staff are lovely, the menus look fab and the building is stunning. There's lot of scope for creating decorations, but not the need to spend every waking hour making them, as all we need to do is compliment the space not create an atmosphere.

The next instalment should be back to crafting - the next item on the 'To Do' list is the Save the Dates, which means decisions about all the stationary.

TTFN ~ Kate xxx

*I know thing can and will won't turn out on the day as I had planned. I want to turn my vision into a reality and to know on the day I did all I could to make it special for us.

Seasons and themes

The first big question I'm asking is: When to hold the wedding?
And how does the time of year shape the theme and feel of my day?

Everyone has a reason behind their choice of date, whether its because they want a short engagement, to save money, to have good weather or to tie in with another event.
Since I was little I have wanted a winter wedding and as I have grown up this has expanded to 'I don't want a summer wedding'. Don't get me wrong, summer wedding are wonderful, I just could not find inspiration to create a day that would be mine, I also easily over heat and as I want a structured dress I could just see myself being grumpy - NOT a good look.


For a while I have been thinking through hypothetical wedding plans based on the three remaining seasons.

I had come up with either vintage or 'Lovehearts' themes for Spring.
I know vintage has been done many times over and is featured at least twice in ALL the magazines, but I think it's so romantic and feminine. with handmade candles in teacups, cake stands, ribbons, lots of flowers and possibly with a bird theme.
I always think the colours of Lovehearts would make a lovely flower display, as well as BM dresses and ribbons; and with the messages and the heart in a circle there's plenty of scope for stationary.

Left-Right, Top-Bottom: Dusty pastel bridal bouquet, Camilla Flowers. Love Heart Mini Stamps, Not on the High Street.Com. flower and floating candles table centre, Super Weddings. 5 tier pastel cake, Seattle Flowers. Loveheart sweets. Heart of flowers, Joy of Flowers and Events. Pastel Bridesmaid dresses. small flower display in jug.
And finally the beautiful cupcake bouquet made for my sister for her wedding, by the talented Vicky at Cornish Fancies, do check them out on Facebook

For Autumn,  had thought of a more rustic setting and harvest festival feel, with hay bales and farming containers like old milk churns, barrels and baskets. All matched with the rich colours of fallen leaves; reds, brown, burnt orange and golds.
Using produce and wheat alongside f lowers to create the church displays and table centres. And choosing earthy flavours for the meal: butternut squash soup, pork and apple and pear tart.I have also seen hollow transparent cake stand that could be filled berries or apples. Finally, I thought giving preserves as favours would work really well with this theme.

The final season I was willing to entertain was the one where I had ideas coming out of my ears... I should point out that I love winter (when it's dry or snowing) , I am a winter baby and love wrapping up for walks in the crisp weather. I find it magical and beautiful and so much easier to create a warm and welcoming environment, especially as I love candle light.

The most obvious theme for winter would be Christmas. But if we were to choose a December wedding I would avoid the traditional red, green and gold, for no other reason than I like to keep them for my Christmas decorations. They are also a little over done and when the shops stock such a wide range of bold jewel colours why go for the same old?
I would have trees, and coloured fairy lights. not to mention lots of beautifully wrapped boxes, and baubles. I could use the baubles for place names, chocolate Santas or gingerbread for favours. You could have carols or a choir before the speeches and Father Christmas delivering gifts.

Another theme is winter wonderland, suitable for December through to February.
Either entirely white or accented with very pale pink or blue and lots & LOTS of glitter. Fairy lights, sparkles and snowflakes adorning the venue. If you wanted some colour for the stationary I would use dark forest green, but compliment it with glitter.
If I decided not to put my bridesmaids in white I would go for the pale pink or blue, but if trying for a white wedding a pale champagne or oyster would be different from the bride, while not standing out too much.
If I had the space I would create a chill out area with chucks of tree trunks, fake fur throws and wraps for the guests and serve winter warms like mulled wine and hot chocolate.

If I *HAD* to organise a summer wedding (and it came with a huge budget) I would have a garden party with tipis and an Alice in Wonderland theme. With a tea party and fair games, trees and furniture all decorated to make the space more than a garden, with streamers, props and relevant accessories e.g. playing cards, giant pansies, flamingos, toadstools and hats.

Illistration by John Tenniel. Source:
.fantasybooksandmovies.com

Image source: Cleveland.com

I would put my bridesmaids in tea length dresses, and suggest tha guests wear tea dresses and bring hats for the reception.

Lots of cake to enjoy and colour to make the whole day have a wacky look, as well as childhood favourits; from penny sweets to shows TV shows & a libaray chillout space with bean bags and children's classics.

So what time of year are we going for?
Firstly, we want to get married in 2013, while I could happily plan a wedding for October/November this year, personal circumstances mean it is best to wait the extra few months to ensure we can both enjoy our day. Also. our work diaries are fairly limiting with anything between January 20th and the middle of June and after August not being an option - we are left with earky January or June/July.

To finish: the beautiful font flowers my Garndma did for
my sister's Summer wedding

You've guested it... we are hoping to book somewhere for January 2013.

We are visiting potenial venues next weekend... so watch this space.

TTNF ~ Kate xx

PS I have not shared my favourite idea for theme with you today, I'm sure I will in good time...

Snappy Happy

Oh No!!!!! 5 days before Christmas I discovered that my camera had broken. I could view the previous photos but the lens would not retract, nor could I take any more pictures with it. A very sick camera.!
After some good old Googling I was heart broken to discover that it would cost a small fortune to repair my trusted old friend. This was all the more unsettling as on the 23rd December I was organising an activity morning at work (Church) and photos are always an important part of sharing the children's & youth work with the wider community - what would I do?

My  newcamera's self portrait

AND THEN, oh what news, what joy... I was told my Grandma was giving me some money for Christmas. Off I went back to the Internet, after searching shops and checking reviews I had once again fallen in love, a relative of my old faithful, but this one had more features, more tricks up its sleeve and an overwhelming beauty in red. To add sweetness to the event, I could even have next day delivery.
My excitement on the 22nd was uncontrollable, to be honest I was more excited then than on Christmas morning, as I waited for the delivery man to arrive. After a quick dash to the highstreet store of the company I purchased the camera from for a new teeny-tiny memory card - I had my shiny new camera ready to roll.

Since the new year I ave been having a play with the camera and trying new ways  to light and show off my jewelley bits. This is something that frustrates me a bit; I had been using the balcony when the sun was at the right angle, but in the winter this is harder to do.

Beaumaris castle

     

One of the 'frame' effects
with a candle holder

A painted letter I gave at Christmas
More on  my facebook page Godiva crafts

The heart bunting I made for Christmas:
hopefully to be replicated for wedding

Meanwhile, since Christmas I have been allowed to start talking about the wedding... The first thing I did was start to seriously look at photographers - man I'm going to be so fussy about this one element. This decission is the 3rd most important, after having a church and getting the right dress.
For the last few months I have been bookmarking all the people who advertise on Facebook and a few photographers my Mum & friends have suggested. I have been through these sites, looked at all their info and I have to say a lot of them come across as really naff. I can't explain what I am looking for but I know it when I see it. I want natural photos, that capture the day. I do want various group shots, but I dont want to spend an hour grinning nor snog in the middle of my familiy. I also want someone who will capture the venue and also all the tiny details I will have lovingly created for the day. I want someone who will blend in, and who Ed and I can have a rappor with. I want pictures of detail but not the stock, shoes and hanging dress, I want images to look stunning but without too much editing - I can't stand it when there is a b&w image with one colour or item highlighted in colour*.
Arg.... I've got it!I know what I want.... I want the Jesus/Superman wedding photographer. someone who can take all the possible pictures and can read my mind and come in at a reasonable budget.

As I know  at times I'm going to be a difficult bride, I thought I would keep you in the loop of my zilla moments, and for a bit of fun I thought I would develop an icon for those times.
I have to say I've already started, there are a couple of things were the comprimise I've suggested is 'I'm going to do that, but if you don't like it, you don't have to'...

I've started to look at the pricing for some of the detail I would like and I'm beginning to hope I've inherited my dad's bargining skills. I also hope that I will have some good luck in charity shops in the coming months.

 

To finish: My parents beautiful dog, Trinity
She's big and soppy but I love seeing her when I'm home

Wow, when I get on a roll, boy, can I ramble on.

Until next time,
Kate xxx

*I realise that every bride has a different oppinion on these sorts of things and I understand why photographers do them - they just don't suit my tastes.

Here we go again....

Woopie 2012 is here!

Another year has passed, I'm another year older (Birthday between Christmas and New Year) and I stand at the start of another year and chapter of my life.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

I had a fab Christmas time!
On the 23rd I organised a childen's activity morning in one of the churches - 50 children making Christmas decorations, covering themselves in glitter in the process.  I will share the crafts next year as it feels a little odd to post angel crafts in January.
Christmas day was a first for me, I spent the day with my In-Laws-to-be. They even gave me a stocking :)
And then headed to my parents, as well as a Kindle (total suprise and very fab) my parents have ordered a Cuttlebug dye cutter for my birthday - which I am very, very excited about.


At this time of year there is that great tradition of Resolutions - what have you chosen?
This year I have 2 big ones that comprimise lots of little ones, but together they feel achieveable.

The first is to do my best to look fab at the end of the year in anticipation for wedding in 2013. this includes a popular weightloss programme, fun excerise and a weekly beauty regime.
To keep myself motivated I will be placing a picture of a bride (below) on the fridge and cupboards in the kitchen as well as in my purse to help remind me why I am doing it.  I have also created forms to keep track of my progress, it is however, fairly unlikely they will be used for more than the first 2 weeks.
During the year I hope to share with you some of my favouite recipes and also homemade beauty 'products' I try out on my skin and hair. 

(Ideal Wedding Dress design feature on Pronovias website)

The second is to not waste my life - spending less time faffing on the computer and watching TV, also to do more to keep the flat looking nice.
The aim is to do at least one bit of housework eachday and spend more time on my crafting and keeping up with friends.

So what does the new year have instore for Godiva Crafts and this blog?

In February I will be starting to plan my wedding, I hope to make as much as I can for our big day. From stationary to favours and my Jewellery; if it could be handmade I will try to make it! This blog will document my journey and ideas.

Taking inspration from a friends status during the holidays and how much I enjoyed doing a small range of charms based on Alice in Wonderland, I thought I would continue the Disney and romance themes and each month I would take inspiration from a Disney movie, read the original and share my thoughts with you all as well create jewellery, charms and cards inspired by the movie.

xxx