My Day Magazine


so sad My Day Magazine is closing....

Make Friends not Contacts


Meeting and greeting new folks isn't just another +1 to your LinkedIn profile. They’re the next lucky person you can share your passions with.
This is a great article from Visual Ambassador. Worth reading!

Popping Bubbles


Love these pictures from Richard Heeks

Happy Weekend



Happy Weekend....

Bring the party outside!



"In the world of entertaining, the arrival of summer often means bringing the party outside! This fabulous Venezia Pavilion from Z Gallerie is definitely a fun excuse to do just that.

If you’ve got an extra-special celebration coming up like an engagement party, milestone birthday, or wedding – or if you just love to entertain outdoors – this super stylish striped pavilion is guaranteed to be the talk of the party! Use it for an intimate dinner party, as shown above, or as a special area to highlight the cake table, wet bar, guest(s) of honor, etc. ($599 at Z Gallerie - sold online only)"



Pictured above: these cool black & white accessories look fabulous as accents to the Venezia Pavilion - or all on their own! Clockwise from top left: Venezia Umbrella ($199); Elephant Umbrella Stand ($89.95); Winslow Vase ($49.95); Winslow Canister ($49.95); and Winslow Pillar Holder ($29.95).

{taken from Hostess with the Mostess®}

You're Invited....




Join the Staff of the Hilton Columbia for an
Elegant Afternoon Tea
For Professional Wedding Planners and Consultants
Thursday July 30th at 3pm
Featuring
Food Creations by Chef David Wilson
Creative Table Designs and Specialty Flowers
Romantic Music, Remember Me Photos
Parade of Fashions and Custom Jewelry

Complimentary Seating is limited
RSVP: Janet.Praid@Hilton.com

Get Organized Using Everyday Items


Recipe cards out of order? Use old CD cases to keep them organized and mess-free.

8 Cool Chalkboard-Inspired Finds

"School might be out for summer, but the chalkboard look is definitely still "in"... at least when it comes to entertaining! There's something classic (and nostalgic) about the familiar white-on-slate design, but the added functionality is what makes this trend extra-special. Check out these cool chalkboard-inspired finds:"



1. Chalk Talk Glassware Set ($15.96 / set of 4 pint glasses)
It's a glass and a drink marker all in one! I've seen this look on plastic cups before, but never on real glassware... until now!

2. Chalk Talk Glass Storage (Sale: $3.96 - $4.99 ea)
The product page states: "Chalk one up for whoever designed this clever kitchen storage." I concur! These handy jars come with white chalk so you can label, erase, and re-label as you see fit.

3. Chalk Board Mug ($10)
Write a fun message on this chalk board mug to brighten up a loved one's morning... or your own! Great gift idea, and one of those gifts that keeps on giving (at least until you run out of chalk!).



4. Chalkboard Napkin Rings (Sale: $34.95/set of 4)
The simple, understated design of these napkin rings/reusable place cards is just one of the attributes that makes them so appealing. The fact that they're meticulously crafted in workshops for the physically challenged in Germany is another factor, and their current price tag of $34.95 (down from the regular $65) doesn't hurt either!

5. Rococo Oval Chalkboard ($36)
Who says a chalkboard has to include an actual "board"? This pretty rococo-inspired chalkboard decal from Wall Candy is here to prove otherwise. Also available in a rectangular rococo shape, these removable, reusable, adhesive-backed chalkboard decals are sure to pretty up that grocery list!

6. Chalkboard Recycle Bin (Sale: $38)
From shoes to pet toys to recyclable newspapers & bottles, these storage bins are perfect for all sorts of odds and ends. Chalk included. (Currently on sale from $55 to $38)

{Simply Stated}

Wedding Stationery: Tips for Brides on a Budget

• Print as many pieces together. It is more economical to print a thank you note along with your other elements versus printing it later.

• You don’t need to print in more than one ink color to create a beautiful piece. If you really want to add extra zing without the extra cost, vary your paper color instead.

• Stickers are a great way to “brand” many elements of your wedding while keeping your costs down. Used in a classy way, stickers can serve as labels for your programs, labels on wedding favors, tags for welcome bags in the hotel rooms, etc.

• You don’t always need a fully custom design to create a custom look. Ask a design studio if they will offer you a discount if you choose from one of their existing designs. Then, modify it with a different ink color, paper color or font selection.

• See if you can order extra invitation elements that can double as something else: for example, we offer folders as part of certain invitation designs. These folders can double as program covers on the day of your wedding – the look is beautifully consistent and inexpensive since you’ve kept your costs down by not reinventing the wheel.

Happy Independence Day

Enjoy your 4th of July....Here's to Freedom and Independence, good food, family, fireworks and fun.

{photos: Martha Stewart , Better Homes and Gardens, Potterybarn, ProFlowers}

Kirkland Manor Bridal Showcase


Some details from a recent Bridal Showcase at the Kirkland Manor in Easton, Maryland.
Photography Andrew Nock Photography

open it up!



Packaging is one of my favorite things to design. Its the whole opening up, what's inside feeling. Many people don't realize that great packaging design can sell your product, service and brand. Here are couple of my favorites....

What should you ask....


What should a couple ask potential invitation shops/ graphic designers about their business to make sure there are no surprises or disappointments down the road?

* How many rounds/proofs are included in the price?
* How will proofs be sent (via email, fax, etc)?
* How much custom work is involved in the price?
* How close will a proof be to the finished piece? (ie. How exact is color?)
* Who is responsible for assembling the invitations?
* Do the envelopes arrive lined, or unlined?
* Who is responsible for the calligraphy?

Happy Invitation shopping...