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~An Artist's Eye~ How to Include Artistic Inspiration in Your Bridal Style!

9/16/2013

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PicturePablo Picasso's "The Old Guitarist".
As an artist, it is easy for me to see the beauty in everything! From nature to people watching, I see something beautiful in it all. It is no wonder why I feel a novel display themed throughout your reception or bridal style, could include taking an artist's approach.


Including an artistic approach to your reception and bridal style does not need to be a daunting task! Simply think of an artist that inspires you or of whose work you enjoy, and decorate and style with them in mind!

I am a huge lover of Picasso's Blue Period. The colors and feel, though intended to be more melancholy in nature, propel me to notice the fine line created when beauty stops being bright and starts breaking through darkness. The shades of blue, brown and grey are base colors that I include in creating my gowns and pieces that become more jubilant in design, concept, style and construction. This is the same process you can use to incorporate an artistic approach to your wedding day! Notice the key colors, shapes or emotions about artwork that you like and design your bridal inspiration around them.


~Receptions Themed by a Famous Artist~
Artistic Work-"The Old Guitarist"   Artist- Pablo Picasso


-Using the greys, browns, and blues throughout the portrait, build a  
 color group that you like. Example: Sky Blue and Grey

-Next include more architectural inspiration. Choose reclaimed 
 wooden frames as table markers and a part of your center 
 pieces. Notecards with the actual portrait can be sent along with your
 invitations as a way to include any special information or directions.

-Lastly, including your chosen colors in your floral arrangements, 
 bouquets and boutonnieres. This is subtle homage to your inspiration.


~Artistic Elements with Accessories~
Artistic Work- "The Old Guitarist"   Artist- Pablo Picasso


-Including artistic elements with your accessories is simple! 
 Bridesmaid dresses in soft blue, groomsmen in soft grey instead or  tuxedos or traditional black. A beautiful blue velvet sash tied around
 the waist of your gown!

-You could also include cuff links with Picasso portraits, and printed     silk ring bearer pillows as great ways to continue the artistic theme!


Drawing inspiration from artwork and including it into the elemental design of your wedding can be both fun and meaningful and you will in turn develop your own artist's eye!


 

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Include different shades of the same color!
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Use reclaimed wood pieces for center pieces and table markers.
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~Maid to Perfection~Styling Your Bridesmaids in Non-traditional Ways!~

4/26/2013

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We can all recall images of bridesmaids in less than flattering bridesmaids' dresses! From the dresses that are terribly outdated to the dresses where the wrong color was chosen, even movies have been made about horrible bridesmaid dress choices! That image does not have to be apart of your wedding!!


Modern bridesmaid dresses have been designed with your bridal party in mind! Styles that not only compliment and flatter every figure and complexion, but are also cute enough to wear again in the future! Your bridesmaids will thank you!


While making the selection of your bridesmaid dresses, here are 4 creative ideas to consider.


Color~
Your bridesmaids do not have to wear the exact same color!! Dresses worn in the same style but in different hues and shades of the same color or within the same color family are a great way to make a unique statement! Shades of blue! Gathers of yellow! Choosing a color theme, such as Spring or Autumn, using a few different colors, is also a great way to switch it up.


Style~
Your bridesmaids do not have to wear the same dress style!! By placing each bridesmaid in a different dress style but in the same color, this will create an individual look that is accommodating of various body types and silhouettes! This also allows you to play around with the lengths, necklines, detailing and fabrications so that each of your gal pals is completely happy and looks stunning!!


Gown Style Theme~
Have you always loved vintage dresses of the 50s!? Do your bridesmaids each love beach inspired sundress gowns?! Create a gown theme, within your bridal colors, that is unique to the personalities of your bridesmaids!


Wedding Theme Styles~
Is your overall wedding theme whimsical, light and airy?! Are you incorporating an antique approach to your wedding decor?! Include elements of your wedding theme into the accessories and detailing of each bridesmaids' look! This allows you to choose the same style of dress and just accessorize and style each bridesmaid differently. Choosing different jewelry or accessories, will accent each dress and compliment each bridesmaid!


Your wedding day will no doubt be a memorable one! And by highlighting each of your bridesmaids in a unique way, they will remember your efforts for years to come!

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~Hues of yellow with gold and bronze~
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~Cool shades of blue~
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~Vintage jewelry and accessories to keep each bridesmaid unique~
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~Demure vs Ornate Floral Decor

2/22/2013

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The theme of your wedding floral decor can be just as important as your gown itself. Choosing flowers that you connect with and that inspire you will help you narrow down the options. When designing the theme and feel of the floral decor for your wedding, your selections may evolve into something demure or ornate.


Elaborate, ethereal, whimsical, and fantasy-inspired are all ways to describe ornate themes in floral decor. The moment you see it, your breath is overwhelmingly taken away! And you feel as though you just stepped into a beautiful garden!


The ornate can take the form of large centerpieces and cascading ivy plants or detailed tablescape florals featuring many flower types in the same beautiful vase. It leaves an impression and makes a statement that can not be ignored.


Simplistic, chic, elegant, modern, and rustic are all beautiful expressions of demure floral options. Though demure florals can be subtle, they draw the eye into all of the special touches that are added. Including personalized notes for each table or choosing elements of your wedding theme that can be expressed differently on each table, are great ways to bring drama to more subtle tablescapes.


No matter the decor style that you choose, adding your own personal touches to either the ornate or demure florals is a great way to keep you apart of your big day!

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A lovely example of an ornate tablescape arrangement!
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To make an elaborate floral arrangement more demure, reduce the flower types used and opt for only 2 colors of the same flower!
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To create a balance of demure and ornate, add a second flower type in a different color just as an accent piece!
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An amazing flower choice for a demure theme are succulent plants! These plants are not only simple, they are elegant and sure to turn heads!
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To make a demure flower themed tablescape standout, choose a flower type with dimension. Place several kinds of a flower type on the same table or simply add a personal note, with each flower centerpiece, for the guests at each table to enjoy!
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The ultimate in elegant demure tablescapes, is to simply add 1 single flower type or stem to a lovely vase!
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Some Lovely Vendors, Venues and Bridal Professionals That Sun*Kissed Designs Loves!!

12/29/2012

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Since April of 2011, when Sun*Kissed Designs first emerged, I've had the pleasure of meeting some of the best in the wedding business along the way! Some local to the MD, DC, VA area and some as far as Texas! From bridal shows to photo shoots, here are some of the vendors, venues and bridal professionals that Sun*Kissed Designs <3's!! 


(In no particular order, they're all amazing! Visit their websites listed below.)


Allison Nance~ Blessed Events (Wedding Planning) www.blessedeventsweddings.com/


Wendy Wang~ Dulce Life Photography
www.dulcelifephotography.com

Jen Reilly~ Jen Reilly Photography/ P Squared Studios
www.psquarestudios.com/


Mark and Mary Chamberlin~ Chamberlin Photography
www.chamberlinphotos.com


Blair Roberts~ Sweet Blossoms LLC (Floral Designer)
http://sweet-blossoms.blogspot.com


Maribel Kalata~ Eight Tree Street (Floral Designer)
http://eighttreestreet.wordpress.com/


Ashley Riddle~ Up Do's for I Do's (Hair and Make-Up Artistry)
http://www.updosforidos.com/


Tenisha Dotstry~ Peggy Jay Jewelry
http://www.etsy.com/shop/peggyjayjewelry


Rachel Powers~ Cakes by Rachel
http://www.cakesbyrachael.org


June B. Xu~ JBX Studio (Hair and Make-Up Artistry)
http://www.junebxu.com/


Laura Knott~ Simply Delicious Desserts LLC
http://www.simplydeliciousdesserts.com/


Trevisio Restaurant
http://www.trevisiorestaurant.com/


The Elkridge Furnace Inn
http://www.elkridgefurnaceinn.com/


Tanya Waltrick~ T Rose International Bridal Shows
http://www.trosebridalshows.com/


What's Up Annapolis Weddings Magazine
http://weddings.whatsupmag.com/


Historic Oakland Manor House
http://www.historic-oakland.com/


Sheraton Annapolis
http://www.sheratonannapolis.com/


Crofton Country Club
http://www.croftonclub.com/


Ellicott City Weddings and Events
http://www.ellicottcityweddingsandevents.com/


Greenbelt Marriott
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/wasgb-greenbelt-marriott/


Double Tree Crystal City
http://doubletree3.hilton.com


Historic Londontown Gardens
http://www.historiclondontown.com/index.php/weddings-a-rentals


Our Lady of Mattaponi
http://site.adw.org


Embassy Suites Hunt Valley
http://embassysuites3.hilton.com

Double Tree Annapolis
http://www.doubletreeannapolis.com/







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Bright Holiday Cheer! The Reason For The Season 2!

12/29/2012

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The Christmas Season is truly one of rejoicing!! The time of year where we remember that Love came down to save us all. From the decorations and festive traditions, to gift giving and creating new memories through loving moments with family and those that you hold dear! It is truly the most wonderful time of the year!




While planning your day, remember to love and to take time to rest and enjoy those who love you the most and to soak up every memory that you create! May your Christmas Holiday time be merry and bright and your New Year blessed!!

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Creating the ~Vintage Winter Sparkle~ Photo Shoot!

11/17/2012

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Developing a concept like "Vintage Winter Sparkle" was easy for me! Think of the pretty things I would like to see at a winter wedding. But I wanted to take the concept a step further by choosing artisans that were passionate about their crafts and put their heart and soul in their work. I knew just who to ask!!


Jen Reilly Hattenbach Reilly-Graves~ Jen Reilly Photography/ P Square Studios

Jen and I met at a bridal show and have collaborated on a photo shoot in the past. So working with her was an idea I didn't have to think twice about! What most people don't know is that in addition to being an amazing photographer, Jen creates photo books of the images with her own graphic elements, that can personalize any collection of memories!


Tenisha Dotstry~ Peggy Jay Jewelry

I had the pleasure of meeting and collaborating with Tenisha during a bridal fashion show where I was first introduced to her amazing jewelry! Beautiful and timeless pieces that compliment any gown. And crystal jeweled shoes that can be custom jeweled!!!! (She applies each jewel one by one!) I've fell in love with her work and will not look back!


Sara Lawrence~ Up Do's for I Do's

It was at my very first bridal show that I met Ashley Riddle, the owner of Up Do's for I Do's! She was so nice and had super amazing staff members, I knew that I had to collaborate with her in some way in the future! So while planning the shoot I knew I wanted the best and she and her staff are definitely the best! (Just look at their work and  read the reviews and raves!!) She and her team can make any make-up application look natural and can create beautiful hair styles for any occasion! Sara was the perfect beauty expert, so good that this renowned make-up artist, can effortlessly create and maintain any overall look!


Maribel Kalata~ EightTreeSteet

Being a lover of all things pretty and florals was the starting place when choosing a florist for the shoot. Maribel's passion speaks volumes and is seen in every detail of every arrangement, boutonniere...and brooch bouquet!!! I adore brooch bouquets (and had no idea how heavy they are!) And Maribel's bouquets tell a story! You wonder not just what was her inspiration, but why certain pieces were chosen and where they had been before. Her flower arrangements bring elements in from nature that compliment without being an obvious choice. Her work is pleasant to be around!


Rachael Powers~ Cakes by Rachael

Rachael's cakes are amazing. They taste good and look like artwork! What more can you ask for! It takes great skill to show the elegance of simple design. Although much of her work is also ornate, the beautiful cakes made for our shoot, were designed in such a way that effortless beauty was on full display!


The Elkridge Furnace Inn

The Elkridge Furnace Inn is a fine dining restaurant rich in decadent cuisine, vintage elegance and local history. Located on the Patapsco River, this venue that holds weddings, special events and corporate meetings, was the perfect place for this shoot! The interior and the exterior grounds created a special location full of natural elements that could be the perfect backdrop for love in any season. It also has the most professional and kind staff around!


Tia Beverly and Anthony Smith~ Our Lovely Models!


What can I say Tia and Anthony are just beautiful! And from start to finish very professional and accommodating. I knew that they had the look I was going for for the shoot, and after working with them, I know they have the talent as the perfect models as well!


Visit the highlighted links above for more information about each vendor! Take a look of some of the behind the scenes shots during the photo shoot! For the entire collection of images click here-------> Sun*Kissed Designs




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This image is property of Sun*Kissed Designs.
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This image is property of Sun*Kissed Designs.
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This image is property of Sun*Kissed Designs.
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This image is property of Sun*Kissed Designs.
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This image is property of Sun*Kissed Designs.
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This image is property of Sun*Kissed Designs.
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This image is property of Sun*Kissed Designs.
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Join Sun*Kissed Designs at the Historic Oakland Mansion Bridal Show!!

4/15/2012

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Join Sun*Kissed Designs Sunday April 15th 2012 from 1:30-4:30pm at the Historic Oakland Mansion Bridal Show! There will be great vendors in an amazing venue to help you plan your big day!

There will also be great giveaways including a hand beaded handmade veil from Sun*Kissed Designs!!
Directions: Directions to Historic OaklandFrom Baltimore:I-95 South to Route 175 (Columbia).  Follow Route 175 West for 5.3 miles. Turn left at Vantage Point Road, follow for 3/10 mile.  Turn right at the OAKLAND sign.

-- or --

I-695 South to I-70 West. South on Route 29 to Route 175 West (exit 20b).  At 2nd stop light, turn left at Vantage Point Road, follow for 3/10 mile. Turn right at the OAKLAND sign.

From Washington:I-95 North to Route 175 (Columbia).  Follow Route 175 West for 5.3 miles. Turn left at Vantage Point Road and follow 3/10 mile; Turn right at the OAKLAND sign.


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Another great chance to see Sun*Kissed Designs!! January 29, 2012 at the Embassy Suites Hunt Valley!!

1/12/2012

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In addition to the What's Up Annapolis Bridal Showcase on Sunday January 22, 2012 at the Double Tree Annapolis Hilton, join Sun*Kissed Designs at the Embassy Suites Hunt Valley for the Bridal Showcase on Sunday January 29, 2012 from 12:00pm until 3:00pm!!

Sun*Kissed Designs will be in attendance displaying new gowns and accessories!! Along with Sun*Kissed Designs, there will be plenty of amazing vendors, giveaways and treats to sample!! Sun*Kissed is giving away a hand beaded veil worth $100!! Bridal shows are a great way to meet amazing vendors all in one location! And it is the perfect opportunity to sign up for free consultations to get the gown of your dreams made by Sun*Kissed Designs!! 

So click Embassy Suites Hunt Valley Bridal Show for more information and to purchase tickets! Admission is free to brides and guest tickets are $5.00 in advance and $7.00 at the door. The Embassy Suites Hunt Valley Hotel is located 213 International Circle Hunt Valley, MD 21030. The event is from 12:00pm until 3:00pm.

In honor of the Bridal Showcase, Sun*Kissed Designs is giving away 2 additional veils through the Facebook Page!! Enter to win by 'Liking' the Facebook Page Sun*Kissed Designs and leave a comment or send the message "I want to enter to win!!". The winning names will be drawn on Monday January 23rd, 2012 and the winners notified by email.
 So come out to the Embassy Suites Hunt Valley Bridal Show on Sunday January 29, 2012!!

Directions:

From BWI Airport: I-295N to I-695N. Continue onto I-695N (Balto-Beltway). Take I-83N to Exit 20A-Shawan Rd. Merge onto Road and take next Left onto McCormick Road. Take First Left onto International Circle. Hotel on Left.

From 70 East: Take I-70E to I-76E to I-83S to Exit 20A-Shawan Rd. Merge onto Road East and take Left onto McCormick Road. Take First Left onto International Circle. Hotel on Left.

For GPS Purpose, use the following address: 213 International Circle, Cockeysville, MD 21030



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Everyday is Spring!

3/30/2011

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There's something so inviting about Spring! From the very first sign of it, as beautiful as it appears, the hidden gem of Winter is still in its wake and peers out on a few days when the temperature is low.

Cherry Blossoms are nearing their peak bloom in DC throughout the week and the cusp of Winter to Spring couldn't be more inspiring than right now. The stark and the delicate! 

As I sit and bead a new wedding creation, I see the play on structure and drapery that each fabric whispers. The warm and the airy! The contrast and transition from Winter to Spring weaves effortlessly. Bring this element to your wedding plans! Let continuity inspire as you transition from engaged to planning to wedded bliss! Effortlessly allow everyday to be Spring!

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    About Me...

    My name is Chantél Francina and I design and create hand beaded wedding gowns, bridal accessories and special occasion gowns and accessories!! I started designing clothes 15 years ago and am completely self taught. I have designed and created just about everything, but have fallen in love with creating bridal and special occasionwear!
      I draw inspiration from the coast, all things lovely,art and being a woman of 32! I am a New England Native who loves to make pretty things. Visit the Facebook Page Sun*Kissed Designs for more photos and information.





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