Invitation Chef: Cooking up Designs for Brides with Refined Taste

CUTE BABY SHOWER INVITATIONS

2011-08-02T11:59:00.000-07:00

These are super cute baby shower invitations that I created that can now be purchased on Etsy.

www. etsy.com/shop/invitationchef.

AMODERN SAVE THE DATE: GOLD WILLOW

2011-07-25T09:21:00.001-07:00

This is a modern save the date with a traditional feel. Gold metallic paper with the willow design is a great combination for a sleek, fall wedding. I love love the drama that the antique gold liner adds to the announcement.

iVIVA MEXICO! A DESTINATION WEDDING

2011-07-22T10:09:00.001-07:00

I love creating destination wedding invitations. What is more romantic than saying your vows as the sun is setting in Isla de Mujeres, Mexico? I love the combination of pink, red and gray. This invitation is whimsical and eye-catching, yet still romantic and elegant. I received some very nice feedback from this beautiful bride that I am sharing below.

I love, love the work you did on my invitations!!! Talent like yours is hard to come by and I am so happy I found you and can send my invitations out with pride knowing how truly unique and customized they are. It's important that brides know they don't have to choose from a cookie cutter book, but instead can have something to send out whoch speaks to them and their wedding style.

Again, thanks a million and we will contnue to work together on the rest of the wedding details. I love your vision and feel you truly understand my style and know how to bring the creativity and design aspect I want to life.

GLAM 30TH BIRTHDAY BASH INVITE

2011-07-12T07:53:00.001-07:00

I love the opportunity to print on colored metallic paper. It can turn a simple one-card invitation into a glamorous invite!

GRACE INVITATION: BLACK & WHITE

2011-07-12T07:49:00.000-07:00

I am so busy already for next year's wedding season that it is hard to keep up with my blog! Love the Grace invitation in black and white. Simple and elegant.

INVITATION CHEF ATTENDS THE NYC STATIONARY SHOW

2011-05-17T13:27:00.000-07:00

Today I attended the New York Stationary show and it really got my creative juices flowing. Talk about paper and invitation heaven! In the next few weeks I will be introducing a new couture collection and additional designs and accessories that is sure to get people talking.

Because my background is in fashion, I try to bring an element of high fashion and unique design to all of my invitations. At the show I was drawn to these "exhibits" - A wall of colorful paper roses and these divine and oh-so-creative dresses made solely out of paper. Stay tuned for new collections!

AN AMAZING WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER WHO HAPPENS TO BE MY BROTHER: MIKE CLEMENTI

2011-05-12T10:36:00.000-07:00

My brother, Mike will launch his new website on June 1st: mikeclementiphotography.com. He is so creative and come highly recommended- of course he is my brother. :-) but also extremely talented too. He shoots weddings in the US and destinations. For booking infomation contact: michael.clementi@hotmail.com.

COORDINATING FAVOR BOXES

2011-05-12T10:17:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love these favor boxes that coordinate back to the invitation. Your guests will notice every little detail!

COBALT BLUE AND GREEN TEA ORNAMENTAL TREE

2011-04-05T07:03:00.000-07:00

Color changes everything! I just love the electric color combination of cobalt blue and green.

BEYOND WEDDINGS: HELLO BABY!

2011-04-05T06:55:00.001-07:00

It is not only wedding season... This is a unique baby shower invitation that I created for one of my former brides.

COLLECTION 2: VICTORIAN ELEGANCE

2011-02-22T09:37:00.001-08:00

This invitation demonstrates just how different a design can look when simply changing up the colors. I love the first color combination. Perfect for a July 4th weekend wedding.

DESTINATION FULL OF COLOR

2011-02-22T09:29:00.001-08:00

I love working with unique color palettes. These destination wedding invitations incorporate the tropical color combinations of orange and turquoise and purple and turquoise. This invitation features a new take on the response card- a perforated "tear here" postcard.

INVITATION INSPIRED BY BRIDAL GOWN

2011-02-22T09:23:00.000-08:00

This exquisite invitation was created to mimic the vintage elegance and beautiful ruffled detail of a bride's couture wedding gown. The inside features the same ruffle detail along with a hand drawn rosette which was drawn from her gown. The color palette is from the bride's color scheme- soft coral pink, white and seashell.

BICYCLE BUILT FOR 2

2011-02-03T07:55:00.000-08:00

One of my bride's came up with a clever theme- she is creating a custom bicycle built for 2 for their wedding day. For the wedding invitations- we incorporated this theme by designing a custom sketch and monogram. Her colors are cobalt blue and royal purple- a very popular color scheme this wedding season.

MONOGRAMED VINTAGE FLORAL INVITATIONS

2010-12-15T05:44:00.000-08:00

In one of my posts I talked about how I am now obsessed with these victorian cards. I created a vintage inspired floral set of invitations with monograms. These are also available on a neutral or colored square backing. So elegant!

CHOCOLATE, GREEN AND PINK WEDDING- PEONIES & HYDRANGEAS

2010-12-15T05:39:00.000-08:00

This bride wanted something to coordinate with her wedding colors and flowers- hydrangreas and peonies. Green and pink is still a very popular wedding color combo... and was also mine.

MAYAN THEMED DESTINATION WEDDING

2010-12-01T06:03:00.000-08:00

Gorgeous, colorful coordinated details add an elegant touch to this Mayan themed destination wedding in Mexico!

VICTORIAN BRIDAL SHOWER INVITATIONS

2010-12-01T05:55:00.000-08:00

The brides that I work with are so creative! For a Victorian themed bridal shower or event, these die cut metallic cards are a perfect way to keep with the theme of the event. I love them so much that I will also be adding them to my collection of wedding invitations (Collection 1). The top photo features tags for favors.

POISE COLLECTION 2: EGGPLANT & PUNCH

2010-07-30T03:53:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite color combos and great for a fall or winter wedding. All are printed on a beautiful whitw metallic paper.

PINK AND BLACK SOIREE

2010-06-17T20:06:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love the combination of a soft pink with black. Black is classic and pink adds just a pop of warm color. The combination also feels very French- there is so much that you can do with this on your wedding day to surprise your guests.

MONOGRAM DESIGN: AN UPDATE ON POISE

2010-06-17T19:44:00.001-07:00

This is an update ont he traditional Poise invitation. The bride really wanted to create a monogram that could be used throughout her wedding. We are working on creating programs, ceremony tags, menus, placecards and table numbers. Love this invitation!

BLUE AND BROWN TABLE NUMBERS & PLACECARDS

2010-06-17T19:40:00.001-07:00

Instead of traditional table numbers, some brides choose to name tables after a theme. In this case, the bride and her groom had a passion for wine. They made their own wine for the favors and created special labels. The bride's colors were blue and chocolate brown.

BLACK AND IVORY WEDDING INVITATION

2010-06-17T12:41:00.000-07:00

This gorgeous formal wedding invitation has a tree theme that is accented by an elegant print. Envelope liners are great to use to highlight the primary color of your special day. This invite uses a luxurious ecru metallic, a new take on everyday matte ecru.

PINK WEDDING "BLISS"

2010-06-17T12:03:00.000-07:00

This is a new take on "Blissful". Gorgeous pink hues and brown sugar make this invitation so sweet. Elegant crystals add special touches.

ADD PIZAZZ WITH PATTERNS

2010-06-17T11:56:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the big lapse in blogging. It is wedding season!

I am going to post a few of the amazing invitations that were created for some of my clients. This is a very dramatic black and white wedding invitation that uses a pattern for the pocket. It not only makes a statement because of the pattern, but also the size which is a 7x7. This invite screams- platinum wedding!

ORCHID THEME INVITATION

2010-03-25T18:18:00.000-07:00

This is a beautiful tone-on-tone invitation incorporating an orchid theme. Appropriate because the wedding is at the Botanical Gardens. Gorgeous!

TIFFANY DAMASK INVITATION

2010-03-10T04:10:00.003-08:00

This tiffany blue and black combination is stylish and whimsical. A damask pattern creates further interest for this stunning invitation. Black is a perfect base color for a wedding color palette, even for summer, and then adding a pop of any color is a way to personalize your invitation and event. Other suggested colors: pink, purple, green, red, etc.

SUMMER FLOWER POWER

2010-03-10T03:54:00.001-08:00

Lavender and tan are a popular color combination this wedding season. Embrace the summer by creating a flower theme like this one. In addition to creating themed menus and place cards, I also like the idea of placing a purple flower at each place setting folded into a napkin.

WHALE THEME BABY SHOWER INVITATIONS

2010-03-07T06:19:00.000-08:00

I made this invitation for a baby shower that incorporates a whale theme. The envelopes coordinate in an aruba color which matches the color of the water. I am incorporating a blue crystal into the whale's water spout. Also- for favor ideas, I found these great mini bakery boxes in blue and brown. Cute whale thank you tags add a special touch. And for the cake... incorporating a starfish and ocean theme.

A ROSY AFFAIR

2010-02-13T09:14:00.001-08:00

The use of pink roses and incorporating shades of pink is always a very popular and classic theme for summer weddings. This invitation also has a vintage flair.

OLD HOLLYWOOD SAVE THE DATE

2010-02-04T19:10:00.000-08:00

A popular theme that I am seeing this summer is "Old Hollywood". This theme plays up the drama of old Hollywood glamour by incorporating the idea of a vintage, classic look- think Fred Astaire and Greta Garbo. Common colors include black, white, silver, gold and red (using classic roses for flowers). These invitations were created for a bride in New Jersey to reflect the vintage elegance of this era.

Another great idea if most of your guests are from out of town and they will have to book travel before your invitation is sent- Add it to your Save the Date!

VINTAGE PAPER LACE ADDS ELEGANCE

2010-01-07T11:41:00.001-08:00

I have been scouring my sources to find beautiful vintage inspired paper lace (some refer to as German lace). I haven't had any luck, so I just decided that I am going to make it myself (above is for placement only). This invite is banded by paper lace to add elegance and has a yellow matte pocket enclosure with black accents.

I have also recently had an influx of brides on a budget, so I have decided to add a new special line that won't incorporate pocket enclosures. The new line will be launching soon and will contain a main invite, a response, and 2 envelopes. The first collection will incorporate my new paper lace- because a main invite and a response loose in an envelope just sounds too ordinary to me! Oh- and of course, paper crystals...

TOUCHES OF COLOR WHILE MAINTAINING A TRADITIONAL LOOK

2010-01-05T18:52:00.000-08:00

This beautiful summer invitation is a design for brides who love color but still want to maintain a classic look. Sometimes brides come to me and wan tmodern colors that coordinate with their wedding and then they consult with their mothers who were all about traditional white wedding invitations. This is a great way to compromise if need be and make everyone happy! Serving CT, NJ & NY. (Stamford, Darien, Westport, Greenwich, Manhattan, etc.)

WEDDING SEASON IS HERE!

2009-12-28T15:07:00.000-08:00

I work with mostly brides from the tri-state area on their wedding invitations, New York (New York City), CT ( Stamford, Darien, Greenwich, Westport) and New Jersey, but occasionally get requests from across the country. This bride wants color and a unique way to showcase wedding activities. This is a fun trifold that fits into the pocket fold of the invitation. This invite incorporates the colors reef (reddish-orange) and coral.

THE INVITATION THAT TAKES THE CAKE

2009-11-10T10:05:00.001-08:00

If you are obsessed with your invitation design, why not carry the design throughout your wedding... and onto your cake! There are several ways that you can do this (or at least come close). Meet with your cake designer to tell them about your idea and bring a sample of your invitation along. The two options are hand painting the pattern on the fondant or working with a ribbon company such as http://www.printmyribbon.com/ or MJ Trim http://www.mjtrim.com/ribbon/default.aspx to custom print a pattern or design. You want to make sure that you do a test on the ribbon before printing, just to make sure it looks elegant and not flashy. Then work with your cake decorator to incorporate the ribbon and your invitation design into the cake. Guests will be impressed with your consistent wedding style.

A SPIN ON A TRADITIONAL DESIGN: MINT GREEN AND ROSE COLOR PALETTE

2009-11-06T12:16:00.000-08:00

This is a very traditional scroll design that incorporates the soft colors mint green and rose. This is a single card with a metallic backing that has a separate "packet" of cards that are banded together with a beautiful, logo design that can be carried throughout the wedding. If your invitation does not incorporate an enclosure, a band is a great alternative to hold all of your cards together and create a cohesive look.

A PLAYFUL PEACOCK THEME

2009-10-29T20:52:00.000-07:00

This Invitation incorporates some of Envelopments Original Artwork, because I absolutely love the peacock theme, but I gave it my own special twist by adding some beautiful coordinating cards. I created a special monogram that can also be used throughout the wedding day. This invitation is a folded card with a band to hold all of its contents. This is a great alternative to a pocketfold.

A MODERN PAISLEY INVITATION: CASPIAN BLUE AND RASPBERRY

2009-10-26T09:12:00.000-07:00

I am staring to work with spring brides because most start working on their invitations 6 months in advance. This allows time for designing and refining your invitations. This is an elegant, modern and whimsical design that incorporates 2 very popular color palettes- raspberry and blue (caspian). I would also, of course add crystal embellishments for an added special touch. Bold colors can still communicate elegance if the design, metallic papers, and printing are all high quality.

BABY SHOWER WITH A CITY THEME

2009-10-25T16:46:00.001-07:00

This is an adorable baby shower invitation that I designed for 2 beautiful sisters who are having a joint baby shower. I designed both of their wedding invitations and they called upon me to create a fun, stylish city theme to announce their celebration. The shower colors will be blue and silver with star and crystal accents.

A SAVE THE DATE FILMSTRIP

2009-10-20T06:41:00.001-07:00

Save the Date filmstrips are a very fun and popular way to announce your wedding. This Save the Date (4"x9") also incorporates the bride's wedding colors which will set the tone for the formal invitation to follow.

DRAWING INSPIRATION FROM BARCELONA, SPAIN II

2009-10-18T18:22:00.001-07:00

While touring BARCELONA, one cannot help but be amazed by the amazing architecture from modernist style architect, Antonio Gaudi. My husband and I participated in the modernism walking tour and took beautiful photos of details. The one featured above uses mixed mediums- mosaic tile and brick.

DRAWING INSPIRATION FROM BARCELONA, SPAIN

2009-10-16T18:59:00.000-07:00

I just returned from a trip to Barcelona, Spain and took photos of some amazingly beautiful architecture. My next few blogs will focus on invitation designs that were inspired by these interesting structures. The invitation above features gold and navy much like the tiled bottom of the balcony in the photo.

INVITATION CHEF PHOTO SHOOT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER JOSEPH PALAZZOLO

2009-10-01T07:58:00.001-07:00

My father-in-law Joseph Palazzolo, who is a famous photographer and painter, was generous enough to take the day to photograph some of my invitations. He has a photography studio, but we decided to set up shop in his living room because of the great natural lighting. I am so thrilled with the shots and everyone is raving about them. Looking forward to shooting the second round for my website. Thanks Joe! Here is a link to view his artwork- http://www.josephpalazzolo.com/ . Joe can be commissioned for personal portraits.

The blog listed below was also shot by Joespeh Palazzolo.

AN ELEGANT INVITATION AND WEBSITE USING BOLD COLORS: FUCHSIA

2009-09-28T13:37:00.000-07:00

I finally got to shoot some of my samples- which I will post more details from my photo shoot in my next blog. It was about time! I had to rush ahead and shoot spring for a Town and Country weddings feature. This invitation however, I feel is for all seasons. Fuchsia is one of my favorite colors and if you combine it with black and silver it has an ultra lux appeal. Who says brides can't use bold colors to communicate an elegant affair? I say got for it! This invitation is also accented with crystals for added sparkle. All of my invitations have a coordinating website- also shown here. It is really important when planning an event to have a consistent theme or color story that is carried throughout.

A MODERN WINTER WEDDING: RED, BLACK & WHITE

2009-09-22T06:45:00.000-07:00

I really love the simplistic, modern design and bold red color of this invite. My inspiration board includes a modern black and white cake from Hansen's Cakes, www.hansencakes.com/ (a Norah Award Winner, http://www.norahawards.com/), an Oscar de la Renta gown from the runway, and beautiful red shoes in which the feathers mimic the softness of a fluffy pussy willow. Instead of displaying real flowers on the table, I really like the idea of a modern take on a pussy willow floral arrangement which is are battery operated illuminated willow branches. I found these for purchase: www.ironaccents.com/222-pwb60.html. Everyone loves the soft touch of a pussy willow, so for place cards I would design around this invite and place a single 3 inch willow branch at each place setting. A sample, coordinating website can be seen here: www.invitationchef.com/websites.html

NORAH AWARDS WEBSITE IS HERE! DESIGNED BY INVITATION CHEF

2009-09-18T08:44:00.000-07:00

Sharon Naylor, who I have mentioned on my blog before, created the Norah Awards to Celebrate Wedding Industry Professionals who exemplify honor and integrity. Invitation Chef has not only been awarded this honor for the month of September, but has been integral in the design of the award and new website! http://www.norahawards.com/. Take a look at the September winners and the website that was designed by me, Rachel Clementi, Invitation Chef.

CLASSIC ELEGANCE: SILVER PLUME WEDDING INVITATION

2009-09-08T08:12:00.000-07:00

When brides send feedback from their guests about my wedding invitation designs, most say that they were "beautiful, elaborate and unlike anything that they have ever seen." Depending on the choice of colors and style of the bride, I tailor each invitation to the bride's personality. I am currently working on this invitation for a lovely bride in Connecticut. Her color theme is silver and she wanted a classic look.

WEDDING AUTHOR CHOOSES INVITATION CHEF TO DESIGN "THE NORAH AWARD", CELEBRATING WEDDING INDUSTRY LUMINARIES

2009-09-04T12:58:00.000-07:00

I recently was asked to design an award for wedding author, Sharon Naylor, who has written over 30 books including, What's Your Bridal Style and The Bride's Survival Guide. Sharon grew tired of hearing numerous stories about unscrupulous wedding experts, so she decided to recognize a class of wedding industry professionals who exemplified the virtue of honor. She came up with the idea of issuing an award, called the "Norah Award" (which is Sharon spelled backwards) and needed a designer to bring the award to life. I designed a beautiful and elegant logo that exemplifies Sharon's personality- she has great taste, is beautiful inside and out, and has a passion for the wedding industry. Visit http://www.sharonnaylor.net/ to learn more about Sharon and her fab books.

YELLOW AND SAPPHIRE BLUE WEDDING INVITATIONS

2009-08-17T08:01:00.000-07:00

I am currently working with a bride who is passionate about sapphires and wanted to incorporate this theme into her wedding invitation design. I first started with an inspiration board that incorporates her wedding colors- yellow and sapphire blue. Then I came up with a design that was both clean and whimsical. Finally, I added beautiful sapphire colored crystals both on the outer tag and 2 inside the invitation for added sparkle. The above are just the initial sketches and I look forward to seeing and sharing the finished printed piece.

INDIVIDUAL MENUS AT EACH PLACE SETTING ADD A SPECIAL TOUCH

2009-08-09T08:58:00.000-07:00

On your wedding day, a great way to create a memorable event is to add special details to your tables. This is a menu that I created for my wedding day using a heavy weight serpentine metallic card stock and the design mimicked my wedding invitations, ceremony programs, place cards and basket and favor tags. My catering company did not require pre-orders for food entrees so my menu acted as a traditional menu for guests to order. You can still create menus solely for visual appeal when pre-ordered entrees are required by catering. Menus add a sophisticated and elegant touch to any high-profile event.

BRANDING YOUR WEDDING WITH A MONOGRAM: DESIGNS FROM TRADITIONAL TO MODERN

2009-08-03T18:04:00.000-07:00

When thinking about ways to "brand" your wedding, creating a monogram is a creative way to communicate the bond that exists between you and your fiance'. Monograms are still a very popular trend and range from classic to modern designs. They are also a great way to incorporate your wedding theme- i.e. leaf design, sunshine, flowers.

Monograms can showcase your signature style throughout your event, starting with your wedding invitation, and then onto your wedding day- menus, place cards, gift bag tags, favors, programs, etc, and finally for your thank you cards.

Personal touches make all the difference and create memorable experiences for you and your guests.

2009-07-14T11:41:00.001-07:00

4jdbprmy9k

COLOR WITH ELEGANCE- MONOCHROMATIC WEDDING INVITATIONS

2009-07-13T11:36:00.000-07:00

Brides who love the idea of adding color to their special day but are hesitant to make bold choices, can ponder the idea of using tone-on-tone colors. These monochromatic colors and designs- in this instance a dark navy with a light robin blue- are soft, elegant and cohesive. The print is a whimsical floral design which is perfect for a summer or spring wedding and highlighted by these sophisticated colors. Visit http://www.invitationchef.com/ to see more color ideas.

A MODERN FAVOR IDEA: CHARITABLE DONATION CARDS

2009-06-29T06:54:00.001-07:00

Choosing a favor for your wedding can be a daunting task. Favors can be tied into your wedding theme or simply be a delicious treat. However, more and more modern brides are giving something back to their communities. Favors can be costly and in many cases are throw-away items. A great way to honor your guests and know that you are not simply wasting money is to make a donation to a charitable organization. These donation cards are enclosed in an elegant, orange and chocolate brown package so that guests feel like they are getting a special and unique gift. Each card was placed on every bread and butter plate rather than one per table. These wedding donation cards also add a touch of color to the table. Visit invitationchef.com to learn more about the possibilities.

DETAILS, DETAILS, DETAILS- ORNAMENTAL TREE WEDDING PLACE CARDS

2009-06-19T05:10:00.001-07:00

It is important to have a consistent look that starts with your wedding announcements and is ultimately showcased on your wedding day. Place cards, table numbers, menus, programs and favor tags are some of the ways that you can do this. Others include flowers, table settings and bridesmaid dresses. This bride chose a whimsical, ornate tree design in her colors- espresso brown, green tea, and bamboo. The initial inspiration started with the wedding invitation below. On her wedding day, she will be laying the place cards out on a table in a small bed of grass. Other colors are available to create a beautiful fall wedding invitation. Conctact Invitation Chef, Rachel Clementi, info@invitationchef.com, www.invitationchef.com

WATERMELON & LIME GREEN WEDDING INVITATIONS

2009-05-29T06:57:00.000-07:00

Most brides today are creating their own color palettes and no longer just desire white or ercu. They want to choose colors that coordinate and then carry this "color theme" throughout their event. It all begins with the introduction of color through wedding invitations.

Watermelon and lime green are a hot color trend for the summer months. These invitations by the Invitation Chef are a part of the new IC Collection. Beautiful, heavyweight metallic papers are layered for a substantial and elegant look. A pink crystal is added as a glamorous touch. Information cards are stacked and neatly displayed to communicate that the event is highly organized.

Please look out for a new invitationchef.com website in the coming month with exciting new color palattes and styles.

EMBELLISH YOUR WEDDING INVITATIONS

2009-04-27T06:00:00.001-07:00

Embellishments are a way to add an elegant touch to any design. I like to use a variety of crystals and buckles when adding finishing touches to my wedding invitations. One of my favorite places to look for embellishments is MJTrim http://www.mjtrim.com/. Located in new York City, they have a variety of colored crystals, buckles, and elaborate buttons that can be applied as invitation embellishments. Visit Invitation Chef, http://www.invitationchef.com/ to start building your wedding invitation with beautiful embellishments today.

STACKABLE LAYERED WEDDING INVITATION CARDS FOR A BEAUTIFULLY ORGANIZED LOOK

2009-04-17T14:01:00.000-07:00

These beautiful stacked cards are my signature design and create a cohesive look. Rather than having a separate RSVP card and reception card that just get thrown into an envelope, these stacked cards keep everything organized and are a pleasant surprise to guests when they open the wedding invitation enclosure. Cards can be multi-colored and coordinate back to the main invite's design.

Contact info@invitationchef.com or visit http://www.invitationchef.com/ to start designing your wedding invitation today with beautiful stackable cards.

A MODERN WEDDING INVITATION IDEA: RESPONSE POSTCARDS

2009-04-13T06:24:00.000-07:00

Modern brides today are choosing wedding invitations with modern flair while still keeping within their budget. Splurge on high-end papers and wedding enclosures, yet know where to cut back. This will help you to stay within your budget while still impressing your guests.

A Response Postcard is a great way to add a new modern twist to your wedding invitations, save costs on postage (only $.27 vs. $.42) and save you from having to purchase a Response envelope. Postcards can be either double sided or single sided and look great stacked in an Envelopments wedding invitation enclosure.

For more information, contact The Invitation Chef. info@invitationchef.com, http://www.invitationchef.com

SOPHISTICATED BRIDAL SHOWER FAVORS, GAME IDEAS FOR LARGE GROUPS, AND A SENTIMENTAL GIFT FOR THE BRIDE

2009-04-10T09:49:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I hosted a bridal shower for my brother's fiance at a beautiful country club. I wanted to inject some fun and color into the event and still communicate a luxury feeling. Here are some great ideas for bridal shower games and favors when you are hosting a large amount of people. Also, I have listed a great sentimental gift idea for the bride.

A SENTIMENTAL POEM AND GIFT IDEA FROM THE BRIDESMAIDS

Each bridesmaid takes turns reading a line.

POEM:
A Basket of Candles For [insert Bride's name]A basket of candles that come in a pair. In all different colors, for you two to share
The white ones burn first. They are wrapped in white lace
To celebrate your first married night In your new chosen place.
The green pair is taller, and also much thinner.
Burn with the first company, you have over for dinner.
The dark blue candles are for after your first fight.
Use them to burn while making up all night.
Pink candles set the mood and pave the way.
For your first married Valentine’s Day.
Now, when your first year of marriage is through.
The cream anniversary pair, will light for you two.
Red candles aflame, both your futures are bright.
Celebrate promotions you’ve worked toward with all of your might.
By this time we hope, maybe, just maybe.
You can light the purple ones, on the birth of your baby.
And just when you thought you’d put these away.
Take the light blue ones out-for your fifth anniversary day.
Now just one more pair left - for the big 2 5.
The anniversary pair that will keep your love alive.
Congratulations [insert Bride and Groom's names].
On the start of your forever.
May the two of you always be happy together.
And burn these candles.
Just the way we said.
But please don’t forget-blow them out before bed!

SOPHISTICATED BRIDAL SHOWER GAMES IDEAS FOR LARGE GROUPS

BRIDAL POEM:
Someone reads this poem and everyone keeps track of their points. If you have multiple winners then draw out of a hat-

Please give yourself 1 point if you are wearing something old.
Please give yourself 2 points if you are wearing something new.
Please give yourself 5 points if you are wearing something borrowed.
Please give yourself 5 points if you are wearing something blue.

Now count all of your jewelry, necklaces, rings and such. They are worth 1 point each, how many are you wearing? Let’s see how much.

Congrats to the ladies who have wedded bliss, give yourself 5 points for this.

Roses are red and violets are blue, if you’re wearing flowers then you get 2.

In a month, (insert bride's name) will walk down the aisle. Give yourself 5 points if you are carrying a nail file.

June is for brides, September is too. If your birthday is in either of these months. Give yourself 2.

White is for brides, red is for love. Give yourself 5 points if you are with your first love.

This game is over, wasn’t it fun? Count up your points and let’s see who has won!

WORD SCRAMBLE (What's in a Name):
Print out paper with them names of the bride and groom. Everyone has to make as many 4 letter plus words with the letters in both of the names. People get 5 minutes.

WEDDING DATE:
The person who has a birthday closest to the wedding day wins a prize.

LOVE SONGS:
Guests have 5 minutes to write down as many songs that contain the word love in it. The person with the most wins.

SOPHISTICATED AND STYLISH FAVOR IDEA

Purchase glass hurricane vases and baskets in all different sizes. Filled different jars and baskets with fun beauty products- shower gels, body spray, lip gloss, bath salts, and mini nail polishes. Set up bright colored small bags with pink tissue paper and guests get to pick 3 items to build their own favors. This was a huge hit with all of the guests.

Remember to visit http://www.invitationchef.com/ to see some of the services that I offer.

Beauty Bar photo from martha Stewart blog: http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/article/beauty-shower-bar

WELCOME TO THE INVITATION CHEF WEDDING BLOG

2009-04-01T05:46:00.000-07:00

I created this wedding blog because when planning my own wedding, I felt there was a shortage of websites that focused on wedding invitation ideas. This led me to start designing my own line of invitations and assuming the role as the Invitation Chef. http://www.invitationchef.com/.

I wanted high quality invitations, but I also wanted specific colors that were not available anywhere. Also, my background is in high fashion, so I wanted something unique and special- not mundane like most of the invitations out there. I also did not want to spend a lot of money to get exactly what I wanted. I wanted to "cook up" my own wedding invitations and thus the name Invitation Chef came about.

In my search for the perfect wedding invitation, I fell in love with the Envelopments line of paper because they are extremely high-end, available in numerous colors and textures, and have enclosures that allow for all of the cards to be organized in a nice, cute package- not just thrown into the envelope. http://www.envelopments.com/

Another idea that I had was that I also wanted to "brand" my wedding. I wanted a unique invitation, a coordinating wedding website, and my "wedding theme" and colors carried thoughout my special day.

I feel that I accomplished this and will share my beautiful wedding day photos with you.

I had such an overwhelming response to my wedding invitations that I started designing invitations for my friends' weddings. Then they had an overwhelming response to their invitaitons so I have been determined ever since, to break through the clutter of the mundane wedding invitation space.

I will be sharing invitation ideas, colors and concepts that appeal to every taste. Buon Appetit!

My wedding photographer was Catherine Hall, http://www.catherinehall.net/. She is an amazing photographer and I would recommend her to everyone.