Don't Forget Your Wedding Umbrella! A Tip for Irish Brides

   As I look out my window here in Newbridge, County Kildare, Ireland, it's a grey day that is threatening rain. If you are thinking about getting married in Ireland, there is always the chance of rain. That's why you need to make sure that you've bought or borrowed a beautiful umbrella, or make sure your photographer has one.

     Last week, I found this lovely lace Lisbeth Dahl umbrella at the Newbridge TK Maxx. There were only 3 in stock and they were on sale for €12, so be quick! You can find Lisbeth Dahl at Avoca and on the net too.
Umbrellas must be on our minds today, because Farrell and Chase Letterpress Stationers also have an umbrella blog post here http://www.farrellandchase.com/category/blog/

For the Punk Anti-Bride: LaCamelot Luxuries on Etsy

   If you're the kind of gal who still likes the Smiths and used to wear Docs in school, then you surely won't be a traditional bride. You still want to look pretty on your wedding day, and add your own unique touches though. You should have a look at LaCamelot's Shop on Etsy. Even Courtney Love has shopped here!

Bib Necklace Inspired by Marie-Antoinette http://www.etsy.com/listing/54657517/romance-in-paris-bib-lace-necklace-with

Pearls & Lace Headband http://www.etsy.com/listing/21705330/sale-pearls-headband-angel-doll-feathers

Beaded Embroidery Bib Necklace on Antique Lace Collar http://www.etsy.com/listing/23261904/beaded-embroidery-bib-necklace-on

Flower Garden Vintage Fabric Lace Cuff http://www.etsy.com/listing/18269714/flower-garden-vintage-fabric-cuff-beaded

Wedding Flowers in Ireland by The French Touch

  I always love the details of the weddings I photograph here in Ireland. Sometimes, the flowers are really stunning and unique. When I ask who did them, I'm not surprised to hear The French Touch in Clane, County Kildare.

Here are some images from two weddings I did where The French Touch had created the flower arrangements. Even the circlets on the little flower girls' heads! I highly, highly recommend anyone getting married in Ireland to seek these talented French ladies out.

Vintage Paper Millinery Flowers from Japan...DIY Boutonniere?

 While trawling Ebay for interesting items a couple of weeks ago, I came across these vintage paper millinery flowers from Occupied Japan. I bought them thinking I could use them for something crafty somewhere down the line.

There are three little bunches tied together, and I think they would make great little boutonnieres tied with a bit of shabby chic ribbon and florist's tape.

Or I might just decide to keep them in the little handmade vase I bought in Shigaraki, Japan. I think they look perfect there!

Playmobil Wedding Pavilion and Car

The Playmobil USA site here has a terrific toy for children of parents who have an upcoming wedding, and it's currently 25% off with free shipping at the moment. At weddings that I've photographed with small children, I've seen that it's very hard to keep them amused for long. Imagine their joy when at the children's table they get this to play with! It will keep them busy for hours.

  The car is also on sale now with free shipping for a limited time. Unfortunately, I don't know about shipping to Ireland. I couldn't find the wedding figures on the UK site. It wouldn't hurt to call Playmobil customer service to see if they had the same deal to Ireland. And there's always Ebay!

 And finally, the guests .

Whimsical Fascinators and Hairbands Made in Florence

 I studied art history in Florence Italy ten years ago as a part of my college study-abroad program. I cried when I had to leave and have always vowed to go back. Now I can have a little part of Florentine beauty from Etsy artist On Your Head
One of the great things about Etsy is you can order from the artist directly and know that you are buying something that is handmade by an individual, not a factory or big corporation. The girl who makes these lovely hair accessories is a student too, so you are supporting her education and giving her the confidence to grow her own business.
So far, I have two weddings to attend as a guest in 2011. Which fascinator should I choose?
And for all you brides out there, she works with your ideas to do CUSTOM pieces. 

Jenny & Barry's Wedding Featured on UK Blog Modern Wedding Ideas Today

Too much excitement here this week with wedding blogs! Today, a really fabulous wedding I photographed in November at Druid's Glen is featured on UK wedding blog Modern Wedding Ideas

I was only there for three hours at the reception at night, but we were able to get some cool shots inside. See more photos on my blog

Tanya & Joel's Dublin Wedding on the Best Wedding Blog in Ireland: OneFabDay.com

I'm so excited that Tanya and Joel's Dublin wedding at Fallon & Byrne was chosen to be featured on Ireland's BEST wedding blog OneFabDay
They are such a cool couple and we had a great time with the pictures! My original blog post from the wedding is here
What a cool wedding and fun couple!

Etsy Wedding Team for Unique Handmade and Vintage Weddings

I've been a big-time Etsy fan for a while now. I love being able to shop directly with the person who makes something. Or someone with the same retro and vintage tastes as I have. I knew Etsy had lots of unique wedding items, but I've recently discovered how they are organised nice and neat. Have a look at Etsy Wedding Team

 Vintage Lace Wedding Invitation

They have a great blog dedicated to finding the perfect item for your modern, individualised, handmade or vintage wedding. You can follow them on Twitter too, where they suggest cute, covetable wedding lovelies. Here's a sample of some things I found on Etsy today.

July Boutonniere

Handmade Birdcage Veil

 Brooch Bouquet

1950s Bridesmaid or Wedding Dress

 Paris Silk Bolero