Ashley + Justin

I don’t normally share life events here, but the marriage of my friends Ashley and Justin is an exception. Not only did I get to watch their relationship develop and instantly know they were meant for one another, I also got to design their wedding invitations. Such a huge honor, as any designer knows.

Sometimes working for friends or family can end up being a nightmare, something else many designers are aware of. Ashley and Justin were the complete opposite, dream clients is the only term that pertains. The day they got engaged Ashley let me know they wanted me to create their invitations, and my mind started churning. I created a few mood boards and after a brief meeting with Ashley two versions came into being. They chose the one that I’d already fallen in love with –BONUS. After a few minor verbal changes, I followed up with designs for a small RSVP card (they opted for an email to save money) and an envelope label.

The ceremony and reception took place at Fort Reno, a historical military camp completely out in the middle of nowhere by my standards. There’s a small church on the grounds that looks straight out of Pulp Fiction, and also gets the best light I’ve ever seen with my own two eyes. The interior is completely wood-lined and lined on two sides with beautiful tall windows.

Everything about Ashley and Justin’s wedding day suited them perfectly, right down to Justin’s TOMS. This one’s gonna last.

 All photos copyright Stella Shot Me, with the exception of the first through third which are by me using Instagram.

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Hey There, 2012

PHOTO: hownowdesign

I chose this photo for this post a few weeks ago. Back when my stepdad’s mom was in the hospital for what we thought was going to be a quick bout with gallstones. Now as I type this we’re several weeks later, Betty’s been in the ICU for awhile, and I’m heading back to Pennsylvania a day after returning from Christmas because they don’t expect she’ll make it through the weekend. I guess I just wanted to let you know that it’s a really tough time around here right now, and my blogging break is going to be extended another week or so. I haven’t had time to get any guest posts together to fill in for me, but I think you understand. Family first, always. xo

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Happy Weekend

PHOTO: Abby Trys Again

01/ I love this Charlie Brown wreath made from tree trimmings
02/ super well-designed pop-up trash + recycling bins
03/ I had no clue disposable loaf pans existed, perfect for gifting
04/ the most insane ornaments + trimmings roundup
05/ learn how to make the perfect omelette in a baggie
06/ Mountain Dew + Dorito cupcakes, whoa
07/ pretty field of light blossoms
08/ make these paper gem tree ornaments
09/ love these revamped Virginia Woolf bookcovers
10/ the storybook fantasies of Dara Scully
11/ 14 charity gift sites, add one to your list

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Happy Weekend

PHOTO: mae noelle

You say it’s your birthday? It’s my birthday, too! I’m gearing up for a fun-filled weekend that kicks off with happy hour tonight, but I wouldn’t leave you hanging without the usual weekend links to follow.

01/ fascinating composite portrait made using 500 photographs
02/ love this mix-n-match chocolates concept
03/ Milk & Cookies, undulating breakfast food
04/ check out the senseless drawing bot
05/ looking forward to this Eames documentary
06/ movies recast with cats!
07/ it’s the 5th annual Movember, grow a beard for the cause
08/ play HuffPo bingo
09/ now THIS is some serious concealing makeup
10/ I want to try out the online stencil generator

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1/2

I’m completely infatuated with Jesús González Rodríguez’s 1/2, a mishmash of photos of the same person recreated into one portrait. They’re combined to make a portrait/headshot that is both beautiful and unnerving. (via Roger Allen)

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365Q

Crushing on graphic designer Julian Bialowas’s year-long photography project – 365Q. Each day he pairs an inspirational quote with one of his own photographs. And while the idea has been done before, it’s motivational to me all the same. (via Dismount Creative)

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Happy Weekend

PHOTO: Jena Coray

01/ gorgeous color block scarves
02/ whoa, this apartment is intense in a great way
03/ beautiful light paintings of dinosaur skeletons
04/ coveting this zig zag shift dress
05/ pumpkin cocktails with a punch
06/ in lust with this convertible teak pool table
07/ such a great idea, use scarves to make curtains!
08/ make a DIY Kelly Wearstler-inspired scarf

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