Summertime Magic

We love each and every one of our couples and Renee and Alex are certainly no exception. This past weekend they celebrated their 2nd year anniversary and we wanted to say thank you to them for being so wonderful. Happy Anniversary!

The finale of their beautiful wedding day was an incredible fireworks display that lit up the Snohomish Valley. It was pretty spectacular and the perfect way to close out such a memorable wedding day with a bit of summer magic.

Photo by Alex Studios for Valley & Co.

Entertaining Essentials for Your Registry with NewlyWish

Please welcome back our wonderful expert registry contributor Amanda Allen from NewlyWish! We appreciate Amanda's expertise and love this entertaining-themed registry post! Thank you for sharing your knowledge, Amanda!

When people think about entertaining and their wedding registry, they often focus on full sets of china that they can use for more formal dinner parties, family holidays, and the like. But for many people, entertaining is frequently more about less formal dinners, cocktail parties, and, with summer getting started, outdoor entertaining.

So, with this in mind, I thought I’d share some ideas on entertaining that you might want to consider as you create your registry.

Plates and Such – With less formal entertaining, you can use many of your everyday dinnerware pieces for the foundation. Classic white dishes are the little black dress of dinnerware – they can be dressed up or down for any occasion, providing the perfect canvas for colorful linens, serveware and, of course, whatever you’re serving on them. If you’re entertaining outdoors, or have guests who are less than sure-handed, melamine plates and bowls are not only durable enough for outdoor entertaining, they’re light and come in a variety of colors and designs. For beverages, I’m a big fan of stemless glassware and tumblers– they’re less likely to be knocked over and are much easier to wash.

Gerrie Linen Napkins by Flowie (from Bobby Berk Home)

 Portland Dessert Plates by Thomas Paul (from Bobby Berk Home)

Table Chameleon Napkin Rings by Mark Addison

Table Linens – Napkins and tablecloths are a great way to dress up a table and mixing colors and patterns helps to make things feel less formal. Paper napkins are fine for cocktail parties and informal/outdoor get-togethers, but cloth napkins can help upgrade the feel of your event and are a great way to add color and interest to your place settings.

Serving Pieces – When I have parties, I often like to let people serve themselves, and decorative bowls, oven-to-table bakeware, and trays make serving easy and are a functional and stylish way to add color and design to your table. Another entertaining essential is a cake stand – you can use them for smaller desserts and other finger foods. Lastly, trays can be used to serve food, help keep dishes and glassware organized, and, when not in use, can be a great piece of decorative art. Cheese Plate by Revol | Bamboo Serving Bowl by Sagaform (from Bobby Berk Home)

Ambroise Tray by Ibride  | Ornithology Cake Stand by Thomas Paul (from Bobby Berk Home)

Helyx Pitcher with Knot Handle by Mary Jurek

Bar and Wine Accessories – In addition to a nice decanter, carafes and pitchers are great for beverages and can double as vases.  You might also want to think about including a shaker set to your registry – they’re a nice touch for any host and often something we don’t already have in our entertaining arsenals.

Fontana Carafe by Blomus (from Bobby Berk Home) 

Duo Cocktail Set by Shiraleah  | Barbara Carafe/Vase by Design House Stockholm (from Bobby Berk Home)

Ocean Coral Vodka Server/Ice Bucket by Michael Aram

So think about some of these ideas as you create your registry and let us know your favorite entertaining ‘must-haves’.

Inspiration: Blush Beauty

A while back our lovely friend Wendy from Just Wenderful asked moi {Aleah} to dream up a vision board for her darling ombre post. The result was breezy summery imagery with darling blush elements. Enjoy!

Balloons | Perfume via Min | Shoes | Lace | Suitcase

Flowers for Valley & Co. | Stationery | Blush | Dress | Peonies

...and we'd love if you hop on over to our Lifestyle blog to check out bonus images and a 4th of July recipe from our San Diego Magazine page!

Valley & Co. Business Musings: Defining Your Passion

Passion is ingrained. It's felt. It's something that drives you and makes you want to do what you do better.

Our passion is to make others happy. It's to inspire. It's to have fun and to do it together. Our passion is to travel and enjoy life with our families. Our passion is what fuels us to continue to plan events, to live in an industry that is not always consistent. To live a life that's fun, yet crazy at times.

Your passion might not be something you are living and breathing at the moment, but by focusing on it you can get there.

Defining passion in key when defining your business and plays a role in how you conduct business. Find what you are passionate about, whether it's one thing or twenty, and focus on making that what you do. Go for it and live your passion. Naturally your path will take its course.

What is your passion? Are you living it, whether through blogging, experiencing it daily, or making it a part of your business?

Inspiration to Invitation: Ruby and Willow

It's summer....we welcome warm and seemingly endless summer days, fresh squeezed lemonade, and a nostalgic charm that we only see during this season. We just adore this inspiration to invitation from Contributor Kate Holland of Ruby and Willow. We think you'll agree!

Photos from top left; Yellow dress | Mandy Lynne, Blue Cake | Corbin Gurkin, Owl Cake Toppers | Kellie Kano, 2nd row; Flowergirls | Braedon Flynn, Bridesmaids | via Grey Likes Weddings 3rd row; Girl on swing | Stephanie Williams for Ruche, Flowers in Mason Jar | Earth friendly weddings,  Blue gingham shirt | Julie Harmsen, Menu | Dooby Design

From that delightfully fresh vision Kate prepared the equally charming Harlow invitation suite. We think the polka dot accents are just plain fun! 

Thanks so much, Kate!

What is your favorite element from Kate's Harlow suite?

Fun and Breezy: Plum Pretty Sugar Loungerie

Alas, summer has arrived {hooray}! Plum Pretty Sugar Loungerie is changing the face of lounge wear, pre-wedding wear, and bedding and we are sharing some favorites, just in time for summer! What we love are their breezy, delicate fabrics with impactful, yet sweet prints. Perfect for bridesmaids' gifts or bedding for your favorite newlyweds, there's something for everyone. We're delighted to share picks perfect for lounging {and napping} on warm summer days.

Pillow Shams $48 | V-Back Tunic in Silk Road Sweet $98

Cami Dress $120 | V-Back Tunic in Darling Jardin Bleu $68

Duvet Cover in Pink Love Poppy $110 | Genie Pant in Beckoning Creatures $48

Duvet Cover  $110

So what do you think? Yeah, we though so. Pretty lovely goods, huh? Aleah's favorite out of the bunch would have to be the genie pants....what about yours?

Monday Coffee with Nick: For the Grooms

While it is a great honor to be asked to be a best man or one of the groomsmen in your pal's wedding, it's also, in most cases, a costly and time-consuming duty. With that in mind, I always encourage our grooms to really consider this when putting together their lists of duties for their guys and to up the ante and really make them feel good during your engagement. Here are a few tips to show that you appreciate all that they are doing:

1. Involve all of your guys in the process.  It can be as easy as asking them all what they'd like to wear {given your bride-to-be is okay with it}, or asking for their input on your play list. By asking for even the simplest help or opinion, your groomsmen will know you value them.

2. Treat them to non-wedding fun during your engagement. We've all been there; when you're planning your wedding chances are you're usually talking about...your wedding. Ease up on this and treat your pals to pitchers and pool or a round of golf, just because {and skip the wedding talk}.

3. Come bearing gifts and not beer mugs and flasks; items they will actually appreciate. Whether it's an iPod Nano, sunglasses, or golf balls, skip ordinary "wedding" gifts. Opt for something unique to each of them that they'll be sure to use.

4. At the bar {on the wedding day} have special offerings just for your guys. Many of our grooms have created cigar lounges and special whiskey bars for their groomsmen to enjoy during the wedding. It's a fun way to grab a drink and toast your crew on your big day.

Photos by Amore Studios for Valley & Co.

5. Pick up their lodging for the wedding weekend, if at all possible. On top of your bachelor party and everything else, picking up the tab will be greatly appreciated.

Lastly, thank them publicly at the wedding; this goes a long way. Raise a glass and give thanks to those who stood by you, listened to your wedding plans, and have been friends for years.

By doing these simple things you have been a stand-up groom and your gents will know that they are appreciated. Remember, this is your wedding, not theirs. -Nick

Playing Favorites: Flower Chat with Aleah

Ah, flowers. Who doesn't smile at the sight or scent of a fragrant ruffled bloom? Sure, I know some of you aren't too keen on flowers, but to me there's nothing that's so diverse, so chameleon-like, and so charming as a fresh cut bunch of flowers. Flowers can make one's day, lift spirits, and bring an incredible ambiance to a wedding or special occasion.

Photo by Amore Studios for Valley & Co.

On our Facebook page and Twitter we put a poll out there calling on favorite flowers {aside from peonies as they are just so incredibly popular}. What I loved were the varied answers and the stories and memories behind them.

Photo by Terri Rippee for Valley & Co.

From delicate lilacs to fragrant roses, to Southern Magnolia blossoms and sweet Lily of the Valley, flowers can represent the best memories and thoughts...a Grandmother in whose garden roses bloom abundant, trips to the South and the scent of Magnolias, or the sight of orchids on a tropical vacation.

Photo by Llanes Weddings for Valley & Co.

My love for flowers is ever-changing and flows with the seasons but ranunculus, peonies, hibiscus, jasmine, and sweet peas are some of my favorites right now. What flowers tickle your fancy? If you are a non-flower person, what do you enjoy in a vase?

Image Love: Stolen Moments

Happy Wednesday! We hope your day is off to a smashing start...We've been working on some photo features and stumbled upon this sweet image from one of our all-time favorite weddings.

Megan and Logan made a point to steal away for a series of intimate and darling photos in the middle of {very} chilly Puget Sound in Washington and, in a collaborative effort, we helped get them out there. As Nick was dressed in a suit, Aleah had the duty of pulling them knee-deep in the salty water {brr!}. Oh, the things we love to do for our couples and that perfect shot. Sometimes the silliest and most unexpected shots from a wedding day turn out to be the best keepsakes.

Photo by One Love Photo for Valley & Co.

What's your favorite image from your wedding day?

Married! Cheery Fall Romance in Indiana

Chris and Leeann's fall Indiana wedding just makes us happy. While it's brimming with lovely details, we love the timeless elements and the fun vibe these images capture {and these shoes!}.

Chris and Leeann tied the knot at their university campus; talk about a gorgeous backdrop and a great wedding story!

Their color story is refreshing and light and actually quite versatile; it's subtle and not overbearing, yet packs a vibrant punch {oh, and those shoes!}.

There's something to be said for really well-dressed wedding parties and this bunch is no exception. From head to toe the bridesmaids and groomsmen are all donning classic looks that are quite fresh.

The architecture in the campus church has a lovely simplicity about it, doesn't it? Chuch weddings always get us. We definitely don't see enough of them. 

How fun is Leeann? I wish I'd thought of this for our own wedding, being the soccer girl that I am. What a great nod to your past time! Soccer cleats and a delicate wedding gown = perfection! 

Aside from Leeann's beautiful shoes, what's your favorite element of this beautiful wedding?

Photography | Mindy Hiatt Photography

Floral Designer | Circle City Designers

Reception Venue | Allison Mansion

Band | Greta Speaks

Ceremony Location | Bishop Chartrand Memorial Chapel in Marian Hall

Monday Coffee: Making Light of Your Seating Chart

We know, perhaps more than most, that developing a seating chart for your wedding or event is serious business. You've taken the time to hand select each and every guest thoughtfully and you're excited to celebrate with them all, but a seating chart always means that there's a table or two in a less desirable area {nearest the restrooms, near a speaker, or furthest from you}. We certainly understand that this doesn't mean you love your guests any less. We recommend upping the dining experience to make each and every guest feel comfortable and welcome, regardless of where they are sitting.

1. Thank you goes a long way. Hand writing or printing thank you notes {be sure to hand sign} and slipping them into a pocket folded napkin at each place setting is a wonderful way to welcome your guests to the table.

2. Make time to visit your guests throughout the evening. Pad time in your timeline to ensure you can stop at each table, snap a photo with guests, and thank them for coming. We know it's impossible to spend too long with each guest during the festivities, but taking time out to visit is a must.

3. Stage parent and sibling, wedding party, and immediate family tables as close to yours as possible. For those guests who have traveled a long way to attend, you can give them a nod during dinner with a special toast.

4. Dress up each place setting with a simple bloom, sprig of herbs, or something that represents your event or the dinner.

Photos by Jeremy Leffel for Valley & Co.

5. Create a feast for the senses. We've mentioned before that welcoming guests to their place with a plate of fresh seasonal fruit {especially after a long ceremony} is thoughtful. Punch it up with pre-plated hors d' oeuvres and something out of the ordinary like fresh pitas and crudites and Greek yogurt spreads. Create a true dining experience by serving palette cleansers between courses {think a basil sorbet} and an après-dinner cheese course.

By using a combination of these tips you'll be sure to create a welcoming atmosphere for all of your guests, no matter where they are seated.

Inspiration: Nautical Sparkle from The Loveliest Day

Our pal Melissa from The Loveliest Day stopped by today to lend some nautical sparkle inspiration. It's tres chic and brings us to fond memories of the South of France in the heat of summer. Thank you, Melissa!

Image Credit L-R: Photo by Jasmine Star Styling by Kelly Makes Things , By Britt Aboutaleb  via Shelter, Photo by Justin & Mary via The Sweetest Occasion, Photo by Open Air Photography, bouquet by Janie Medley Flora Design via Tying the Knot, From West Elm, By The Caketress, From Haus Interior  From Velvet by Graham & Spencer

Beachy Inspiration from Postcards and Pretties

Hi there Valley & Co. readers! Chris from Postcards & Pretties here and I'm so happy that Aleah + Nick asked me to guest post today while away on their well deserved vacation. If you're a daily reader of V&C like me you know this adorable couple loves the beach and with summer just around the corner, I knew I had to create a beach inspired wedding board.  You don't typically associate orange with a beach theme but why not especially when paired with one of my all time favorite summer color turquoise.  Can't you just picture your beach wedding with this board?

{colors} aqua, clementine, white

{photos} shoes {leo patrone photography} campari citrus sorbet {mowielicious} citrus centerpiece {quatre couer via martha stewart weddings} couple {oakstream photography} beach sign {twigs 2 whirligigs} kite drink stirrers {caroline tran via style me pretty} bouquet {jose villa} bow veil {silvana di franco via ruffled}  

Happy Friday!

Happy Friday, everyone! What fun do you have planned for the weekend? We are leaving on a jet plane...headed to Maui for Aleah's birthday tomorrow and some much needed R + R! We've had a whirlwind week after attending engage!11: Grand Del Mar and we will be back to our normally scheduled posts {though we will be revamping the way we're blogging!} after a week of guests posts coming up from some dear pals. Stay tuned for our Day 3 recap of Engage! and some new ideas once we've had some time to decompress and enjoy some birthday cake.

Photo from Country Living