Dear Evie

Wedding show recap

2012-02-03T16:03:00.001Z

Just a brief recap from the weekend... Dear Evie's birthday went with a bang! It was our very first wedding show (eeek!) but after an eight-hour set-up the day before, the stand looked perfect! Simon, Sallie and I met lots of excited couples and got some great feedback on the designs. It was such fun - I can't wait to take the Dear Evie bandwagon on the road again! ;)

{P.S. This is my last post for a week... be back soon!}

Oliver + S

2012-02-02T12:44:00.000Z

A new find via Pinterest... Oliver + S. When I have a mini Keen, I will definitely be busting out the sewing machine!*

*I'm a poet, I just don't know it. ;)

An engagement

2012-02-01T22:02:00.004Z

Ahhhhh! Today I've had a grin from ear to ear! One of my oldest school friends, university housemate, bridesmaid and fellow graphic designer announced her engagement! Pauline and I have known each other since we were 11, when she started secondary school just a few weeks into term. She was the ever-fascinating 'new kid' and we hit it off straight away. I followed in her footsteps to uni and it was only in 2002 that we went our separate ways. But in true Sex and the City style, we've kept in contact ever since and I'm so excited to help her plan her special day!...

Many congrats Pauline + Ping! X

Our year

2012-01-31T10:53:00.000Z

Phew... and breathe! I'm back! Poor little blog.

So, the weekend flew by and we were rushed off our feet. It was so much fun! I'll post a recap very soon, but in the meantime I wanted to share this lovely quote by Miss Moss (design inspired by this piece). It couldn't have popped up at a better time because, well, I have a feeling this will be our year. ;)

Milton Keynes Wedding Show

2012-01-23T19:00:00.005Z

Sorry for the silence over here - things have been a little hectic! Truth is, we've been busy preparing for our first wedding show! Yes, Dear Evie will celebrate (officially) turning one this weekend at the Milton Keynes Wedding Show. There will be lots of lovely paper goodies, yards of bunting and maybe even chocolate biscuits. :D We'd love it if you came and said 'hi'! Admission is free. :) See you then...

Alexa for Vero Moda

2012-01-18T14:34:00.000Z

Ahhhh, Brit-favourite Alexa Chung is back at her best with this casual-but-cute fashion shoot for Danish label Vero Moda...

Words

2012-01-17T14:58:00.000Z

For designers and type-fanatics alike... the Oxford Street flagship branch of Selfridges are currently hosting a pop-up shop entitled Words, Words, Words. Pretty self-explanatory, it features anything and everything type related! I had a nosy last weekend when I was in London and this is my pick of the bunch...

{Words, Words, Words is live from 12 January to 1 March. Can't make it? Shop online here!}

Clockwise from top left:
Earrings | Necklace | Notebook | Library kit | Notelets | 'T' towel

Waterstone(')s... again

2012-01-13T12:07:00.003Z

What's going on? If I didn't know better, I'd think beloved bookstore Waterstones was having a brand meltdown! After announcing a new identity in May 2010 (which coincidentally, I hated), the company has now reverted back to the old-style Baskerville logo and... *shock* ...removed the apostrophe from their name.

Hmmmmm. This offends me massively. What's the point? Apparently it's all due to Google searches and email addresses in this new, digital age. But everyone knows Google does all the hard work for you, even if you misspell a search query - it's clever like that. And who, in the last ten years, has tried to put an apostrophe in an email address!? Please tell me!!...

Anyway - the Oxford Street branch of Waterstones clearly embraced the change with the humorous photo below...

Happy weekend everyone! Grumpy guts. X

{P.S. See more apostrophe abuse here. ;) }

{+}

{+ via +}

Reverie Magazine

2012-01-12T15:46:00.002Z

Today sees the long-awaited launch of online magazine Reverie; a collaboration between wedding planner Mary (of Forever & Ever Events) and creative director Kate (of Coquette Paper & Press). It's quite simply wall-to-wall wedding prettiness - a must-read if you're in the midst of planning your big day (or just fascinated by it all, like me)!

This elegant Thames-side wedding, captured by Polly Alexandre, features in the debut issue. Not quite sure how I missed it the first time round, but I'm so glad to have found it now!

Go read...!

{Images via Reverie and Polly Alexandre.}

Hello It's Valentine

2012-01-11T13:35:00.000Z

Another year, another girl crush. At the moment, it's French fashion blogger Valentine - you may have noticed a sneak peek in this post. I would kill to own this lady's wardrobe!

Those vintage grey boots... *sigh*

Pinned {11}

2012-01-10T12:53:00.000Z

73 Letterpress

2012-01-06T11:43:00.003Z

In need of some light-hearted new-year motivation?! Look no further than Ian Coyle's daily art project, 73 Letterpress. (Love the back-to-front '3' by the way.)

{Found floating around on Pinterest.}

Hello 2012

2012-01-04T08:42:00.007Z

{Mallorca, 2011}

Happy New Year! I hope you all had a lovely, peaceful Christmas break! Simon and I celebrated with family and friends in our new home and time just flew by. My dad was sadly taken ill before Xmas Day, but that didn't stop any woodland walks or mince pie eating! And the main thing is he's on the mend now...

So, last January (a year ago today in fact!), I posted my '11 for 2011' list - I guess it's time for a little update?!...

Be more adventurous with fashion
Partly achieved... with a huge help from Pinterest. (Still wish I was brave enough to try ombre hair though!)

Visit my nan
Done (at the start of the year).

Use even fewer carrier bags
Big tick. A few dropped tins of beans were worth it...

Remember my dad's wise words
...Always.

Cook with new recipes
Hmmmm. Pass! I guess we're just creatures of habit!

Recycle that huge stack of magazines
Done and dusted (but mounting up again)!

Travel to new places
Well, it seems 2011 was the year of travel - I was lucky enough to visit France (twice!), Mallorca and London.

Avoid Tesco like the plague
Oh yes - not a penny exchanged hands. :D

Find time to do more of the things that make me happiest
Tricky. But partly done! I sailed, swam and snoozed my way through the year. Big smile.

Be patient
Never, never going to happen. Dammit.

Keep going strong with Dear Evie
Most definitely achieved. It's been a busy year with the website launch, magazine features, shows and real weddings! And 2012 is going to be even better... ;)

More exciting Dear Evie news to come soon...

(Get well soon Daddy Mason. I love you lots. X)

Inspiration board {33}

2011-12-23T10:57:00.000Z

It's Christmas Eve eve already! Where did this this year go?! I'm seeing out 2011 with my favourite kind of post - an inspiration board! Enjoy this dramatic, wintry creation complete with pine cones, faux fur and layers of tulle.

...And most importantly, enjoy Xmas! Thanks so much for reading - see you in 2012. :D X

Row 1: Bridesmaids image by Viera Photographics via Style Me Pretty, mini wreaths by Frolic!, chair image by Jenny Haas Photography via Green Wedding Shoes.
Row 2: Ruffled dress image by Gucio Photography via Style Me Pretty, kraft paper parcel via Design*Sponge, centrepiece image by 4Eyes Photography via Style Me Pretty.
Row 3: Woodland image by Kelly Tunney via Style Me Pretty, invitation by Christine & Ian, ice skates image by Loreta via Magnolia Rouge.
Row 4: Earrings image by Keri Doolittle Photography via Style Me Pretty, cake pops image by Keri Doolittle Photography via Style Me Pretty.

Walnut Animal Society

2011-12-21T12:08:00.002Z

Ahhhhhhh! I want each and every one of these 'members' of the Walnut Animal Society!

Maybe for a future Baby Keen?!... ;)

{Found via Rifle Paper Co.}

Lovely London

2011-12-20T13:02:00.001Z

So, last weekend (after months of keeping plans a secret!) I surprised Simon with a little pre-Christmas London getaway to our all-time favourite hotel. We played, shopped, ate and erm... watched three daredevil motorcyclists dice with death in a giant steel cage. Such fun!

Merry Xmas Simon X

An ice rink proposal

2011-12-19T15:54:00.000Z

See now, guys... this is exactly why you should hire a sneaky photographer for your proposal plans! Magical.

{Mike + Glenna's engagement, shot by Chris Emeott Photography}

Pinned {10}

2011-12-16T15:00:00.000Z

More Mulberry love

2011-12-15T11:11:00.000Z

I've got some fun news to share! Last week, I entered this competition to win a limited edition World of Mulberry canvas Bayswater. Whilst I didn't win first prize, I was super-excited to be chosen as one of four runners up! It seems my spooktastic handbag, complete with wolf-like ears and a devilish grin, won over the judges! Fast forward to this week and my prize arrived in the post yesterday... it was only one of these(!!) and a cute friendship bracelet from the A/W collection. Agghh! I'm in love - just that little gold fox makes my heart melt. Thank you so much Mulberry! X

Tiger & Turtle – Magic Mountain

2011-12-15T10:17:00.001Z

This is actually amazing!... a walkable roller coaster in Duisburg, Germany. Not quite sure how you'd navigate the loop-the-loop though?!

{Images by Thomas Mayer, via ArchDaily}

Featured - Perfect Wedding Issue 63

2011-12-14T11:41:00.000Z

Thank you so much to the team over at Perfect Wedding for featuring not one, but two Dear Evie designs in this month's edition! See snippets of our Floral Border and Bunting ranges in issue 63, out now.

New home: bedroom

2011-12-13T15:48:00.000Z

As I sit right now watching the sleet fall down outside, all I want to do is curl up under freshly washed sheets and cosy, soft throws. But, as always, there's work to be done!

My inspiration for our new bedroom is based around contrasting textures and dark sumptuous colours. How very Kelly Hoppen... ;)

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Dashing magazine

2011-12-12T16:02:00.000Z

Have you seen the newest online magazine to hit the virtual shelves? Dashing magazine is a little bit fashion, a little bit home, a little bit wedding... and a whole world of lovely! Check it out right now!

{Thanks to Rebecca for the tip-off}

Christmas cascade

2011-12-09T12:41:00.000Z

Hold up!! Whilst we're on the subject of weddings, wouldn't some of these BHLDN last-minute gifts make amazing wedding day attire? I'll take the Sovereign Collar please.

A Bleubird wedding

2011-12-09T11:02:00.001Z

Where has this week gone?? Eek...

To end up, a little 'sneep peep' at this lovely lady's wedding film, captured by videographer Geoff Boothby. Too adorable for words!...

Finally...

2011-12-05T15:26:00.001Z

... in our new home. We've been waiting almost a year for a sunrise view this beautiful. :D

Wish list

2011-12-01T09:30:00.002Z

Or you. Or you. :P

{Mulberry Heritage Bayswater Satchel, £950}

Papermash

2011-11-30T11:39:00.000Z

Tomorrow is the first of December and it's suddenly dawned on me how little time I have left to buy Christmas presents! I'm usually a little bit more organised than this but things have been super hectic the past few months. Good job there's always Amazon for the goodies and Papermash for the pretty packaging supplies! I love the below combo of red and white patterned tape with kraft paper wrapping and customised luggage tags. So simple, inexpensive, but most importantly... pretty!

{P.S. Oh look... it's Rifle Paper Co. again. :P}

Bella Swan

2011-11-29T09:21:00.002Z

I'm not a Twilight fan; never have been, never will be... but even I've got to congratulate the costume department on this beauty. Lucky Kristen Stewart (aka Bella Swan) being paid to wear this stunning Carolina Herrera wedding dress! Definitely reminds me of something. ;)

{+}

Moving week

2011-11-28T15:25:00.000Z

Agh - this week has crept up so quickly! We spent the whole weekend packing up boxes ready for our house move on Friday and now our lounge resembles a DHL depot! (Never again will I whinge about packing for a holiday...)

Anyway, whilst reboxing some of my childhood toys in the garage, this little treat dropped out! Spooky. I'm so happy my parents kept all my favourite (now vintage!) Topsy and Tim books. Twenty-something years later and I still adore them. :D

Jacqui Lee

2011-11-25T11:27:00.000Z

Hello!Lucky again??! What can I say? Their work is phenomenal! And thanks to their new Christmas Shop, I've discovered this super-talented lady - Canadian illustrator Jacqui Lee.

See Jacqui's full seasonal range on the Hello!Lucky UK site here.

Pinned {09}

2011-11-24T10:51:00.000Z

John & John

2011-11-23T12:32:00.000Z

Another gem found via Pinterest... this super-cool packaging for John & John crisps.

Cinemascapes

2011-11-22T12:40:00.000Z

Who knew the Google Street View cars could capture such enchanting images?! Love this breathtaking collection by Aaron Hobson...

{Found via Ayaan Mohamud}

New home: study

2011-11-21T14:54:00.001Z

Since our new study will effectively be the Dear Evie hub(!) I guess it should be number one on the list of decorating priorities. And I think it will be. I made the disastrous decision to paint our current study dark grey and I won't be making that mistake again. Whilst it looked great empty, add all my clutter and you've got a dark, messy cave to work in! So, the inspiration behind this board? A neutral canvas (surprise, surprise) with black accents and plenty of storage! I just love that industrial bookshelf...

Less than two weeks 'til M-day!

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

J.Crew

2011-11-18T15:14:00.000Z

Yes!!! Finally... J.Crew ships to the UK. Go shop!

6.41am

2011-11-18T12:59:00.000Z

Days like today make me so glad I set the alarm super early. Whilst everyone else is sleeping I get to witness arguably the best part of the day. 7.5km = done!

AirCassette

2011-11-17T16:11:00.000Z

I think I just found the coolest iPhone app ever!!

Intrigued?...

Ed Peers

2011-11-16T15:52:00.000Z

Today I'm totally swooning over these stunning, abstract-style shots by Surrey-based wedding photographer Ed Peers.

{See more of Ed's impressive portfolio here.}

I like...

2011-11-14T12:37:00.000Z

Clockwise from top left:
Taupe suede ankle boots - Zara
Gold circle earrings - Red Ruby Rouge
Faux fur collar boyfriend coat - Topshop (sold out)
Knotted sash belt - Zara
Quilted duffle bag - Dune
Opi nail varnish in Black Cherry Chutney - HQhair

11.11.11

2011-11-11T11:44:00.001Z

The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. Along with millions of people worldwide this morning, I proudly observed a two-minute silence to mark Armistice Day.

{Stunningly simple poppy illustration by One Plus One}

Inspiration board {32}

2011-11-10T15:11:00.000Z

It's a far cry from the last inspiration board I posted back in September, but this autumnal-themed 'rosy apple' board really has got me in the mood for the festive season. Enjoy!

Row 1: Apple tree image by Kiss The Groom, red lipstick image via Real Simple, table image by Souder Photography.
Row 2: Bouquet image by Ian Grant Photography via Style Me Pretty, stationery by Crane & Co. via Martha Stewart Weddings, bookshelf image by Meredith Perdue via Style Me Pretty, apple crate image via Gabriel Boone via Married & More.
Row 3: Bridesmaids image by Priscila Valentina via Green Wedding Shoes, bow tie by Hello In There, car image by Archetype Studio Inc. via Style Me Pretty.
Row 4: Chair image by Souder Photography, ring image by Camilla Binks, cake via Martha Stewart Weddings, shoe image by Justin & Mary.

Typestaches

2011-11-09T17:30:00.000Z

In honour of Movember... an oldie, but a goodie.

{Throughout November, Old Tom Foolery are donating 10% of all Typestache sales to fight prostate cancer. Click here to shop now.}

Jeremy Kohm

2011-11-08T15:29:00.003Z

Today I'm loving these muted, retro-style shots by Toronto-based photographer Jeremy Kohm.

{Found via Miss Moss}

Lucy Laucht

2011-11-07T12:55:00.001Z

I've pinned many a picture of this super-stylish lady, but it's about time lovely Lucy Laucht (and her equally lovely handbags!) had a blog post all to themselves. As a fellow blogger and Mulberry lover, English girl Lucy works as a fashion brand strategist in New York but started her career in London. I simply love the way Lucy pulls together her looks with key vintage pieces and everyday basics from high-street stores such as Zara and H&M. I see many more pins ahead...

Ana Montiel

2011-11-02T16:06:00.000Z

Isn't this work by Spanish-born artist Ana Montiel just beautiful? The patterns remind me of the geometric colouring books I used to have as a kid...

Anthropologie styling

2011-11-01T15:36:00.000Z

On Sunday, Simon and I took a little trip to London and stopped by my new favourite store, Anthropologie. I took this snap of a place setting on a £10,000, yes, ten thousand pound, antique table. (That's what I love about Anthropologie - you can literally buy the whole store, display stands and all!) Anyway, I loved this styling, with the old driftwood and twine. I guess it would translate well to a nautical themed wedding, although what guests would do with a plate full of gravel is anyone's guess. ;)

Google image search

2011-10-31T15:47:00.001Z

A handy little tip for bloggers... did you know Google can perform a 'reverse' image search? If you need to find the original source of a picture on your desktop or on another website for example, simply drag the file (or icon) straight into the Google images search bar.

The results show the top matches and also images with similar shapes and hues. It works a treat! Great for crediting anonymous pins... :P

{Example image here}

Bliss

2011-10-28T15:50:00.000+01:00

Today is the most stereotypically perfect autumn day - bright sunlight, crisp leaves and beautiful rust colours. Ahhhh, I had such a blissful lunch break... oh, and look, my shoes need polishing. Where's dad when I need him eh?! :D

Have a lovely Halloween weekend! Looking for last minute decorations? Check these out.

New home: kitchen

2011-10-27T12:35:00.000+01:00

Part two of the new home series and it's onto the kitchen. This is, by far, the room I'm most excited about decorating! I'm not sure why - maybe it's the sheer size of the space we have to play with or maybe it's the clean, neat lines that float my boat. Either way, I've still got way too many must-do projects or must-have purchases to find both the time and money to fulfill! Of course, the DIY blackboard is right up there though...

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Virginia winery wedding

2011-10-26T08:48:00.001+01:00

I first laid eyes on this gorgeous celebration in the Sept/Oct issue of You & Your Wedding magazine and I really can't get it out of my head. Even though the look is probably complete polar opposite to my own wedding day, I've fallen head over heels for the girlie pretty. There are so many unique little touches - the handkerchiefs, the personalised pencils, the crocheted shawls. Aggh! I'm crying for all the newlywed brides who would just kill to do it all over again!

Captured by Simply Bloom Photography. See the full post here.

Style | Outdoors

2011-10-25T12:48:00.001+01:00

Yesterday, I stumbled upon this inspiring photo series, Street Style vs. The Great Outdoors, by South African blogger Miss Moss (guest posting over at Honestly...WTF). Just how beautiful are those colours?! <3

Pinned {08}

2011-10-24T11:49:00.000+01:00

Clockwise from top left:
Nice day | Bouquet | French bulldogs | Bedroom | Numbers

I like... (The going out edition)

2011-10-21T12:14:00.000+01:00

Clockwise from top left:
Lace dress - Mango
MAC Powerpoint eye pencil in Industry - Debenhams
Sequined wallet - Zara
iPhone 4S - Apple
Girls Aloud by Eylure false lashes (Kimberley) - ASOS
Suede heels - Dune

That'll be my outfit sorted for birthday drinks tomorrow night then. ;) Have a good weekend!

Andrew B. Myers

2011-10-20T11:31:00.000+01:00

Currently loving the retro-style work of Canadian-based photographer Andrew B. Myers...

{Found via M&D's Tittle Tattle}

British Airways nostalgia

2011-10-18T11:36:00.000+01:00

Yesterday, whilst catching up on trashy (yet fascinating!) wedding TV, I saw British Airways' much-hyped new ad for the first time. Rumoured to have cost £20m, the 'To fly. To serve.' campaign is the company's biggest marketing push since 2000 and takes a nostalgic look back at air travel through the decades. I love it... but then I've always been a loyal British Airways customer. What I love more? The board of moustaches in the 'making of' video below! Awesome.

Thirty-two

2011-10-17T22:13:00.000+01:00

So, this is how I spent my 32nd birthday... jumping on a giant bouncy pillow with my uncle's two year-old goddaughter! At Shannon's request, we also built sandcastles and ate mint choc chip ice cream. It was the most fun I've had in a long while, even if every bone in my body aches today! Ah, to be young again.

I'm looking forward to the next year and all that it brings...

Society6

2011-10-14T14:16:00.001+01:00

I feel like a kid in a sweet shop today! Not only is it my birthday weekend(!) but I just bought myself a new toy. After almost two years with my trusty iPhone 3GS, I succumbed to the hype and queued outside the O2 store first-thing for the 4S. Let's just say, Siri is truly awesome! I even asked my phone earlier 'Why did the chicken cross the road?' and it replied 'To get to the other side'! It's like there's a little person in there!

So now the hunt is on for a cool case to protect my pride and joy if when I drop it. US-based Society6 have a huge selection - these are some of my faves...

Back next week with a recap of my celebrations. :)

Autumn inspiration

2011-10-12T16:12:00.000+01:00

Do you love the Urban Outfitters A/W lookbook as much as I do?! Thought so.

UK readers can enter code CAT2UO at the checkout for 15% off until midnight on Sunday - handy, because that just might be someone's birthday. ;)

500 today!

2011-10-11T15:22:00.000+01:00

Well, not quite. ;) But this is my 500th post!

Dream big...

{Image by W. Scott Chester Photography from this stunning wedding}

Henry

2011-10-10T15:49:00.001+01:00

Meet Henry - the newest addition to the family! Sadly, my parents lost both Clemmie late last year and Rose more recently. It seems that Henry captured their hearts at just the right time - he sure has landed on his feet! Welcome to your new life Grubstick... ;)

New home: living room

2011-10-07T12:19:00.000+01:00

Well there's lots of Friday excitement here... it looks like we'll finally exchange contracts on our new home today! I've been trawling the internet (and Pinterest!) for stacks of inspiring home-related images for, like, ever, and wanted to share my little series of interiors boards here on the blog. Just a peek into how I plan to make this little pad 25 Beautiful Homes worthy! No messing this time! I'm afraid to say, the days of my Ikea Lack side table are numbered. ;)

First up - the living room...

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Steve Jobs

2011-10-06T10:03:00.002+01:00

The world woke this morning to the sad news that Steve Jobs, founder and former CEO of Apple, had lost his eight-year battle with cancer.

As a long-time fan of all things Apple, I think the BBC News best summed up Steve's revolutionary and bold vision with "Steve Jobs had a knack for making things people wanted, long before they knew they wanted it".

The poignant tribute on the Apple website today is very fitting...

{+ L: Introducing the Apple II in 1977, R: Unveiling a new model in 1984}

{+ The evolution of Apple - click for the full version}

Grey sparkle

2011-10-06T08:39:00.000+01:00

Today I'm sporting a sparkly ring-finger manicure in honour of my parents' wedding anniversary! With lots of love. X

National Wedding Show 2011

2011-10-05T21:08:00.000+01:00

This Sunday just gone, I took a little trip to the National Wedding Show at Earls Court with my best mate Sallie. It's the first time I'd visited a 'proper' wedding show since I was planning my own special day, and let's just say, none of the excitement had worn off. :D

But (and there's a big 'but') there was a real reason for me to be there; two reasons in fact. Firstly, I had the honour of working on details for the Wedding Magazine stand! Place cards, menus, table numbers, tags... all beautifully presented on four differently-themed tables. I was over the moon with how they looked (shame the photos below don't do the designs any justice)! Secondly, I was able to finally meet the lovely Charlotte from Rock My Wedding, after many email conversations. She's every bit as friendly in real-life and can I just say that the RMW stand looked truly awesome!! (I need some Hendrick's gin bottle vases!) :P

Thank you everyone for your support! And if you fancy a trip to the National Wedding Show yourself, the show continues at the NEC, Birmingham, from this Friday 7 Oct until Sunday 9 October.

Lost Type Co-Op

2011-10-04T11:05:00.000+01:00

Lost Type Co-Op has been doing the blog rounds for a while now and it's about time I shared the love! As a pay-what-you-want type foundry, the Co-Op's philosophy is simple: they distribute beautiful and unique typefaces and you decide how much you want to donate! (You can even enter '$0' for an entirely free download.) With an ever-growing collection of typefaces from around the globe, it's definitely one to bookmark.

Below are some of my favourites - click any image to go directly to the font page.

Nikki McWilliams

2011-10-03T15:24:00.000+01:00

Oh my goodness! I'm not sure I can live another day without one of these biscuit-themed cushions in my life!!!

{By Nikki McWilliams, found via M&D's Tittle Tattle}

Inspiration board {31}

2011-09-30T12:03:00.000+01:00

Our little UK climate is clinging onto the last few strands of summer (29 degrees today!) and this Santorini-themed board has got me dreaming of holiday escapes again! Who knew azure blue and peach worked so well together?...

Row 1: Bride and groom image by Sarah Rhoads, Santorini church image by Mr and Mrs Globe Trot, sunset image by Erin Hearts Court.
Row 2: Bridesmaid image by The Nichols via Style Me Pretty, door image by Sarah Rhoads, cake image by The Nichols via Style Me Pretty, drinks coasters by Azulado.
Row 3: Peach image by The Nichols via Style Me Pretty, pool image by Greece Villas, bride and groom image by Erin Hearts Court.
Row 4: Chair image by Bibliothèque, bride image by Jose Villa, invitations by Bespoke Press, table setting image by The Nichols via Style Me Pretty.

Pinned {07}

2011-09-29T12:58:00.003+01:00

Featured - Perfect Wedding Issue 60

2011-09-28T09:16:00.001+01:00

Another month, another magazine feature. We're on a roll...

See our latest press outing in the October issue of Perfect Wedding magazine, on the shelves now. Oh, and head over here for a peek at the (now famous!) Airmail suite. Thank you guys. ;)

English country wedding

2011-09-27T10:33:00.000+01:00

Ahhh! Rock My Wedding have gone and done it again. Love, love, love this Yorkshire countryside affair...

Shot by Robbins Photographic. See more here: part one/part two.

Portrait postcards

2011-09-26T15:37:00.001+01:00

To start the week... a fascinating new project by my good friend, writer and poet Rishi Dastidar. Working in collaboration with designer Matt Busher, Rishi has collated over 1000 of his Facebook status updates from the past three years and produced a huge series of 'portrait postcards'. My favourite? "Now enjoying a very messy chocolate milkshake. Sadly, it is not bringing anyone to my yard.”

Read more about the project here or visit the exhibition at the Her House Gallery (daily from Friday 30 September to Thursday 6 October, closed Sunday 2 October).

{+}

Cox & Cox

2011-09-23T12:28:00.001+01:00

Have you seen the new Cox & Cox autumn catalogue? So much I want to buy!

Love those super soft-looking linen and velvet cushions...

Row by row: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10

Mallorca

2011-09-22T10:22:00.000+01:00

Just a few snaps from our Mallorca holiday...

Why, oh why, does it feel like so long ago now??! This time last week we were basking (read *melting*) in 37 degree heat! Now? Now we're back in the land of wind, rain and hazy autumn sun... and I love it! Roll on my favourite season...

Emma Block

2011-09-21T11:20:00.000+01:00

Today, the wonderful world of Pinterest introduced me to the wonderful work of London-based illustrator Emma Block. Thank you Pinterest. :P

I like...

2011-09-20T09:29:00.000+01:00

Clockwise from top left:
Leather jacket - Monsoon Fusion (thanks for the tip-off Becki!)
Gold plated medallion locket - House of Harlow 1960 at ASOS
SPF 15 oil free tinted moisturizer - Bobbi Brown
Studded shopper - Zara
Utopia nail polish - Models Own
Suede cuff - Bex Rox

Whitney Deal

2011-09-19T13:13:00.000+01:00

Hey! I'm back... and delighted to see the launch of fellow-blogger Whitney Deal's fall 2011 collection and website. I've been reading Whitney's posts over at Darling Dexter since day one, so wish her all the best for her new venture. I'll take the Rosa dress in Horizon please (bottom left). So, so pretty!

Expect to see photos from Mallorca very soon. ;)

September break

2011-09-09T16:00:00.000+01:00

Eek! It seems like I'm jetting off on holiday every two weeks at the moment! I can assure you I'm not! On Sunday we're going on the last of our (scheduled!) holidays of the year, to Mallorca. Unlike Paris, this will be a chill-by-the-pool-and-soak-up-the-sun kind of holiday... pizza and piña coladas included. Sounds like bliss. ;)

See you a week Monday!

{Image source unknown, via Pinterest}

Pinned {06}

2011-09-09T15:05:00.000+01:00

I could live here...

2011-09-08T12:20:00.000+01:00

If loft living was my thing, this is the pad I'd choose...

{Found via Desire To Inspire}

I like...

2011-09-07T11:05:00.000+01:00

I have a bit of a love/hate relationship with Daisy Lowe. Sometimes I think she looks fab and other times I think 'Please at least just brush your hair woman'!!! However, last night at the GQ Men Of The Year Awards in London, her whole ensemble was undoubtedly spot-on in my eyes. Dressed in a floor-length, black lace Jexika gown, she completed the look with bright red lippy and her trademark blunt fringe. Really, really pretty...

Very similar to Cat's recent red carpet style.

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Allison Cole

2011-09-05T14:56:00.000+01:00

It's been a while since I featured any lovely illustration work on the blog... these bright and cheery circus designs by Allison Cole get the week off to a great start.

{Found via Design Work Life}

Twentysevennames

2011-09-02T16:04:00.000+01:00

It's Friday again (yay!) and today I'm in awe of this camouflage-style look book by New Zealand fashion label Twentysevennames. That lace collar dress is pretty special too.

So, we're off to finally see The Inbetweeners Movie tonight. Have a good weekend. :D

{Found via Liebemarlene Vintage}

Officially autumn

2011-09-01T14:59:00.000+01:00

Today is a red jeans + Lexi + park bench kind of day. I really hope the sun stays out for the rest of September...

A Florence castle

2011-08-31T13:04:00.001+01:00

Did you see this Florence wedding over at Style Me Pretty last week? Absolutely magical!! Ahhhh, the chandeliers...

Shot by London photographer Marianne Taylor. Read the whole post here.

Pinned {05}

2011-08-30T16:32:00.000+01:00

Two today

2011-08-26T09:10:00.000+01:00

Wow - today is Dear Evie's second birthday! It's been a rollercoaster year... there's been a website launch, more pretty inspiration boards, more not-so-pretty photos(!) and the first of hopefully many magazine features.

Thanks for reading! I'm well and truly hooked on this little community! X

{Decoration by Confetti System, via Decor8}

Featured - Rock My Wedding

2011-08-25T09:52:00.001+01:00

Yesterday I got a lovely tweet from Charlotte at Rock My Wedding to let me in on a sweet surprise! Little did I know that my bunting invitation would take pride of place in Charlotte's beautiful home office - a peek into the wonderful (and shame-provokingly tidy!) RMW HQ. Thanks again guys!

See the whole post here.

Inspiration board {30}

2011-08-24T12:50:00.000+01:00

Another new Dear Evie range, another new inspiration board. ;)

The Lace design will be debuting on the website very soon, but in the meantime, enjoy this sneaky peek in peaches and cream.

Row 1: Cake image by Michael + Anna Costa via Style Me Pretty, centrepiece image by Lg Weddings via Style Me Pretty, veil by Rosa Clará via AnastasiaC, tealight image by Lg Weddings via Style Me Pretty.
Row 2: Shoe image by Caroline Tran via Style Me Pretty, lace invitation by Dear Evie, centrepiece image by Picotte Photography via Style Me Pretty.
Row 3: Dress image by Caroline Tran via Style Me Pretty, ring image by Austin Warnock Photography via Style Me Pretty.
Row 4: Lace image by David Hughes Photography, frame image by Greer G Photography via The Knotty Bride, dress image unknown via Pinterest.

3 guys, 44 days, 11 countries

2011-08-23T16:39:00.002+01:00

I'm at home today, recovering from a very minor operation on my leg, so what better to do than catch up on my blog reading and pinning?! Sally at Our Dream Lives reminded me of this great little video I saw a few weeks ago, commissioned by STA Travel Australia. A six-week worldwide adventure crammed into just one epic minute... amazing.

The foot files have a challenger. ;)

Just saying

2011-08-22T16:11:00.000+01:00

This is the outfit I wish I was wearing today. All Mulberry of course. ;)

8mm

2011-08-18T16:36:00.003+01:00

Last week I downloaded the 8mm vintage movie app for my iPhone and now I'm officially obsessed! Along with Instagram and MobileRSS, it's my must-have of the moment.

Download it for 149 Great British pennies right here. :D

Featured - Perfect Wedding Issue 59

2011-08-17T12:20:00.001+01:00

Wow! I am so over the moon to see my first feature in print! Head straight to page 165 of Perfect Wedding magazine (on sale now) to see our Butterfly invitation in all its glory. <3

I like...

2011-08-16T10:16:00.000+01:00

...Olivia Wilde. She's definitely my new style crush! I suppose there must be something in the name. ;) Who else could rock so many on-trend hairstyles, look effortlessly chic with just a slick of red lipstick and put us all to shame with the perfect airport attire?! Perhaps it's time for me to get a fringe again...

{Image source}

Monday, Monday

2011-08-15T11:38:00.001+01:00

Hello - I'm back, and boy have I missed blogging (and Pinterest)! I had a lovely week away from my desk and you'll be pleased to know that, after an initial hiccup, the blackboard DIY project is going well. ;)

Posting will be in full swing again soon, but in the meantime I wanted to share this heart-wrenching image taken during the unrest in the UK last week. I don't usually document such sad happenings on the blog, but it's true what they say - a picture really does paint a thousand words. And, since we're in the mood for famous proverbs, I guess every cloud has a silver lining.

Aaron Biber, 89, assesses the damage to his hairdressing salon after riots on Tottenham High Road on August 7, 2011. {+}

Vintage frame blackboard

2011-08-08T11:51:00.000+01:00

This week, I'll be taking a much needed break from the daily nine-to-five and the world of blogging. Amongst sorting house stuff (we put a deposit down on our new home last weekend!), drinking a ridiculous number of Starbucks' mocha Frappucinos, visiting my parents in Suffolk and going wild at Go Ape(!) I really hope to start a few DIY projects that have been on my to-do list for a while. One of those projects is to transform the bargain eBay frame we bought for our wedding table plan (best seen here) into a French-chic blackboard for the kitchen! These lovely finds are my inspiration...

Have a great week and maybe I'll 'see' you on Twitter :D

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Recipe: Choc chunk cookies

2011-08-05T17:57:00.000+01:00

For someone who spends the majority of her life either eating or sleeping(!), the recipes section of this blog gets surprisingly little attention. Seriously, five posts in two years?! Shocking!

Well, in my ongoing quest for the perfect Millies-type cookie, I made these beauties the other day. They turned out so good that I thought it'd be rude not to share the how-to. Enjoy!

{Recipe adapted from here}

Chocolate chunk cookies
200g unsalted butter (at room temperature)
85g light muscovado sugar
85g golden caster sugar
1 egg
225g self-raising flour
150g Dairy Milk chocolate (cut into small chunks)
½ tsp salt

Preheat the oven to 190°C (170°C for fan ovens).
Beat the butter, sugars and egg until smooth, then mix in the flour, chocolate chunks and salt.
Spoon the mixture onto greased baking sheets in 20 rough blobs. Make sure the blobs are well spaced because the cookies will expand in the oven.
Bake for 12-14 mins until just golden, but still quite pale and soft in the middle. Don't worry - the cookies will firm up!
Cool on the trays for 5 mins, then carefully lift onto a wire rack with a fish slice and leave to cool completely.

{Yes, I ate that other half}

Clothes peg cake toppers

2011-08-04T13:22:00.000+01:00

If someone had mentioned the words 'cake topper' back when we got married, I probably would have laughed it off and uttered the words 'When's this? 1983?!' But I've noticed that cake toppers (and in particular, miniature clothes peg couples) are really having their day right now. These are all just so adorable!!...

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Marc Johns

2011-08-03T10:07:00.000+01:00

Illustrator Marc Johns might be a little nuts, but his drawings made me giggle today. And that can only be a good thing.

Pinned {04}

2011-08-02T08:44:00.000+01:00

Some of my favourite pins from the past fortnight...

New to Pinterest?! Follow me here. :)

Clockwise from top left:
Pool | Skirt | Table | Bathroom | Poster