Inspired Ink – Vera Wang’s layered looks.

While browsing through the many designer galleries on Grace Ormond’s WeddingStyleMagazine.com I became enchanted by the billowing, layered looks from the Vera Wang Spring 2009 collection – I’m in love with that buttery yellow and subtle glow these fabrics posses.

Paper flowers immediately came to mind – not stiff, smooth cardstock but soft, supple rice papers sculpted into a luscious single blossom. Perched at the corner of this classic and almost stark layout, the bloom appears soft, unencumbered and perfectly placed.

Well Said – A letter to keep forever.

One of my favorite pieces to create is the personal thank you letter, as I like to call them. These letters are typically given by the bride or groom to members of the wedding party, close family or each other. At Momental we like to create elaborate pieces meant to be treasured for a lifetime. How do we do it? – a meaningful combination of custom illustrations, select poetry, pocket presentations and detailed finishing. Recently I created a letter for Eugenia to present to her husband to be the morning of their nuptials.

An Artful Life – Off to Ireland!

The Hubby and I are preparing for a self-drive tour of Ireland in mid-February. “Mr. Engineer” and master planner has been reading books & marking maps while I have been planning my trip by photo inspiration of the lovely rolling hills & rugged coastline I hope to capture in watercolor. Several of my recent brides call Ireland home, so I have been chatting with them for their insights. I may even have the chance to meet Darlene, who recently opened a wedding boutique and would like to represent my work – how fun!

I am most excited to visit Galway with the river nearby, colorful boats will be sure to inspire. Artist and Photographer Becky Haletky promises “You can spend an entire day in the old city of Galway. Winding streets of antique shops and art galleries will entice you as we view the city. You will find many handcrafted items such as traditional Irish sweaters, prints, and pottery, or shops filled with books or Irish music. Be sure to take at least one piece of Ireland home with you. Galway is a lively city that may even present you with dancers and musicians performing in the streets and alleyways. If its boats you are looking for, the river nearby is lined with colorful examples.”

I adore this watercolor – so alive with color and thoughtful details.

Kristy Says consider Picasso Calla Lillies

About two years ago I traveled to Longwood Gardens in Philadelphia and spent the day painting in their many lush greenhouses. One of my fav illustrations that day was the Picasso calla. As I was flipping through my new copy of InStyle Weddings last week I noticed that the Picasso Calla is the new “it” flower, and rightly so! With shades of purple making a huge comeback this season, the Picasso bloom is a stunning choice with its rich aubergine hue, touches of crisp white and graceful shape.

Detail from Kristin’s invite last spring.

Inspired Ink – Jenny’s Wedding Logo

One of my favorite weddings of 2008 was Jenny and Rob’s decadent event in Newport, RI. The event was full of fantastic detail, color and charm. Jenny has agreed to be featured on a 3 part Real Wedding feature later this year so be sure to check back as it will certainly be full of inspiration!

I created a custom logo for Jenny to be included on a variety of stationery items. To my surprise however, Jenny chose to grace many, many more items with this logo. Everything from seals, glass tumblers to hats and more! I am so honored that Jenny and Rob loved the logo so much.

One of the coolest details was the sail bag below. The tote is made from recycled boat sails – awesome! The tote was filled with a welcome/itinerary booklet (made by yours truly), 2 embroidered hats, a silk screened umbrella, wine and corkscrew and 2 glass tumblers. Jenny surprised me two weeks ago with a bag all my own complete with all the goodies!

How are you using your stationery imagery throughout the wedding?

Well Said – Rumi, An unusual quote

I just love this quote Jessica chose to compliment her invitation suite. In her words “I wanted to avoid the standard choices in wedding quotes, I wanted something subtle, romantic”.

A great resource for finding quotations is www.thinkexist.com. You can search by subject, keyword, author and more.

Kristy Says Ritzy Bee Blog is a must read!

I have been following Ritzy Bee for quite a while now and find endless inspiration there each week. This blog is a daily read filled with expert recommends from a sought after wedding planner in the Northern VA/DC area, Maria Cooke whose insight and eye for detail is respected nationwide. Most recently Ritzy Bee was honored with the “Top Blog” Distinction from the Editors of Southern Weddings. Southern Weddings loves “The variety – Maria combines great planning tips, fab finds, and daily inspiration all in one hot spot”.

I am quite honored to say that last week Momental Designs was mentioned as a “great ” designer to check out for “plenty of inspiration and loads of paper goodness!” Yay!