Happiest of Monday afternoons to your faces, my friends!  Actually, there are more things to greet…

Hi there, vibrant yellow bouquet in the foreground with ribbons the color of azure waters that I want to touch.  You flutter beautifully like the hair of Beyonce with child while she performs in high heels which is very dangerous!  Oh and hey- how’s the weather, extremely attractive couple caught in a moment of not exactly kissing, not exactly laughing?  Oohh and hello to you, too, billy ball decorated cake of on-trend wonder and astonishment.  Can I see you up close?

Oh, thank you, cake.  You are as pretty as I imagined you would be!

As you can see, there’s much to look at this afternoon, friends.  Because today is Brancoprata in Mexico for Jose Villa‘s Latest Workshop Part Deux: Return of the Amazeballs.  And OMGITISMYFAVORITE.  However, if you’ll indulge me for two shakes of a puppy’s butt, let’s pick up this conversation after a little message for my deli guy who I just met:

Guy at deli I met who prepared my salad: why you no give me normal amount of salad dressing on my salad?  Why you give me weird amount?

You poured approximately a lot of salad dressing on my salad, and it’s gross now.  Why you generous is wrong way?

Eating this salad is a little like eating a thick, sweet bowl of puke with some leaves added to it.  It is so much salad dressing that I can’t even take it.  So, so much.  Do you know anyone who likes this much dressing on their salad because I DO NOT.  Why did he put so much on?  Maybe the more important question right now is why didn’t I listen to my Mom who gets her salads there every time she visits us and tells me every time that, if I ever get a salad there, I should consider asking for the dressing on the side because dude gives her a bowl of honey mustard dressing soup with a touch of salad to garnish.  If she doesn’t ask for the dressing on the side, which she does now, always.  Mom, you’re so right, why are you always right.

Ok keeping it real, this is not unusual behavior for me, this forgetting (or as friends/relatives call it – this ”not paying attention” or this “ignoring” or this ”walking into another room when someone is mid-sentence, as if to say ‘f**k your words.’”).  It’s not that I’m still rebelling shmmahhmmana years out of college, it’s more about the fact that I’m just generally a forgetful mess, is all.  I’m forgetful sort of like how OJ Simpson is forgetful about the fact that he [allegedly] killed his wife and so writing a book about how you can kill your wife was the worst idea, though still a distant second behind actually killing his wife.  I’m forgetful in the way that whenever I watch a commercial where there’s this one kid sitting on the bleachers/the curb whose mom forgot to pick him up from soccer practice, or a movie where there’s the one kid who’s waiting in the rain for his mom to pick him up from practice, and then that one aspect of the kid’s life is extrapolated onto the entire social acceptability of the kid and how it’s got deep, emotional problems because the mom must be a head case… I’m always like, “s**t.  S**T.  That’s gonna be my kid.”

{Fast-forward more than 12 years from now, when we have pre-teens} … After the third late kid pickup, Honey’s going to be like, “Sweetheart, seriously?  You gotta pick up our kids on time, otherwise they’re gonna be pegged as the kids with the scatterbrained mom.”  To which I’ll say, “Honey, first of all, I am already this person.  I am who you know me to be.  You’ve seen my sister Jenny, right?  We’re related.  Also, if their friends don’t already know this about me then THEIR moms had low test scores because I wear this eccentricity on my sleeve and our kids’ friends could have tagged them with this scatterbrained mom BS right out of the gate at any one of our kids’ birthday parties into which I habitually come running with an ice cream cake from Carvel (PLEASE STILL EXIST IN THE FUTURE, CARVEL).  In closing, having me as a mom is going to bring them the occasional late pickup, and yes, we may have named our children with the most common, Presidential names not because we want them to be President but because we knew in advance that I’d be running late for their birthday parties and would need to be able to grab the already-inscribed birthday cakes from the showcase cooler at the cake shop.  But you know what?  Our kids are also going to get A’s in art class, writing and at least passing grades in math, will excel in good conversation, and they’ll always know that they have parents who love them endlessly, and also, they’re going to blame us for everything bad that happens in their lives ANYway, so why not be guilty /deserving of it?”

And that’s when Honey is going to say, “omg you’re right.  I am wrong!  Let me cook a nice dinner for you followed by extended cunnilingus and one of my award-winning foot rubs to lull you to sleep.  Also, I’ll pick up the kids from practice on alternate days.”

HELLOOO!  I got a little off track there.  Let me escort you back to the matter at hand which is my forgetfulness.

Here’s one more example of it: I’m Rick-James-on-The-Chapelle-Show level forgetful, minus the soul-crushing drug addiction.  So, I don’t even get the fun of drugs.  Just the forgetfulness.  Sucks.  Ohh- if you’re not familiar with Rick James’ cameos on The Chapelle Show (or you’re forgetful due to 1: rampant drug use or 2: genetic makeup-aka the unfair way), I will share a relevant quote from one of his appearances:

Rick James: ”See, I never just did things just to do them. Come on, what am I gonna do? Just all of a sudden jump up and grind my feet on somebody’s couch like it’s something to do? Come on. I got a little more sense then that.”

[... brief pause...]

Rick James: ”Yeah, I remember grinding my feet on Eddie’s couch.

Anywho, happy Monday afternoon, guys.  I totally forgot to say that… or did I?  I think all that salad dressing is clogging my synapses/syntax awareness.  Ok so tell me, how’s it hangin’?  Having a good Monday?  That’s probably a stretch since it is of course, Monday, but still I hope it’s going decently for you.

I’ve gotta say, if you’re anywhere near as excited about the fact that I’m blogging Part II of the gorgeous wedding styling inspiration Sofia and Andre of Brancoprata shared with me from their super awesome mega fun time experience in Mexico at Jose Villa‘s most recent workshop, then your a$$ is about to explode.  Because I am a radioactive level of excited about this and I’m gonna shut down ma talk hole so you can see it already.

ShaBLAMMY! ↴

Almost forgot… A Day in the Life of Bambino McPuppyPants III, Esq.

Today, Bambino stars in:

Bambino sits funny.  I can’t see how this is comfortable for him but it’s his go-to position.

So, what think you?  BECAUSE I AM DYING.  About the wedding inspiration.  Or about my insanity.  Because clearly either one is game.

xoxo!  - Alison

Brancoprata is member of TKB’s Vendor Love. You can explore more of Brancoprata in our guide.

Photography: André Teixeira of Brancoprata / Workshop: Jose Villa Workshops / The beautiful couple is Jana Williams and Dave Baez / Location: Hacienda El Carmen / Abby of Style me Pretty / Styling: Jill La Fleur / Cinematography: Joel Serrato Films / Karina Puente / Brian of Richard Photo Lab / Jim Cagel Accountant / Mar of Team Hair and Makeup / Kate of Flower Wild Design / Paper goods design: Amber Moon / Calligraphy: Mara, Neither Snow / Cake: Erica O’brien / Wedding Gowns: Claire Pettibone / Hair Pieces: Mignonne / Engagement session gowns: Everly

Sponsors: Richard Photo Lab / Fuji Film / Velvet Raptor / Cypress Albums / Kraft and Jute / Think Tank / Ryan of Finch Design

SO!

As we continue to review Bloggista applications (if you haven’t heard from us yet, please don’t fret, it’s taking us LIKE FOREVS to get through them and decide. you kind of all hit us with all of your best shots, rendering it painfully difficult to make quick, easy decisions. which likely means that about five times as many Bloggistas as once planned will actually get a LET’S-DO-THIS from TKB. a good thing?  methinks…)

… Like WHOA.  Tangent in the premiere paragraph, eh Alison?  My affliction is growing worse by the hour.  Here, let me get back on track…

As I was saying, I’m truly overjoyed about this particular Wednesday afternoon, and mind you I’m saying that while trying to survive from inside the thickest and most aggressive cloud of puppy gas ever documented by man.  So, why the transcendant excitement, despite these hardships?  Because today is the day I get to introduce to you our newest Bloggista and DIY Contributor.  Huzzah and mitzvahs!  Her name is Andrea Gray Harper, and she’s the talent behind AGH Event Maker.  And the inspiration she sent me a couple weeks back for her very first introductory post pretty much blew my BRAINS OUT.  Like, I’m sitting here, still picking my brains up from off the floor, piecing together memories once held so dear, no longer connected and comprehendible because my brain is all in shambles.  I’m going to have to post my partial memories onto Craigslist’s Missed Connections so I can try and make sense of it all.

But in the meantime, I present to you the more level-headed young woman involved in this post today… Andrea, kindly take it away…

… wait, Andrea… Bam wants my attention — what’s that, Bam?  Oh, you smell something?

It’s YOU, DEAR.  Come on, I know you know it.  Stop lyin’.

 Yeah.  Exactly.

Ok, take it away NOW, Andrea!……..

Hey y’all, Andrea here. I’m so excited to share my posts with you all! Thought I would start you all off with one of my current obsessions, ombre. As a student of textiles I have been fascinated with this technique for quite some time now, but I am truly excited with what I have seen of it in the wedding industry. Here’s a quick bit of history on the technique: also known as irise, rainbow prints, and fondu, ombre is distinguished by a gradual shading and blending of one color into another. The technique was first used in paper printing and moved to textiles in the mid 1800’s.

For me, the connection between ombre and weddings all began with Gwen Stefani’s John Galliano designed Dior dress from 2002. sigh.

Behold a few of my favorite ombre cakes out there…

I especially swoon over the one on the left, below, where they have gone so far as to make the layers on the inside ombre, genius!

{clockwise from top left: Style Me Pretty, Cake Coquette, cake and florals photographed by Lisa Lefkowitz Photography; Martha Stewart Weddings; Maggie Austin; Call Me Cupcake}

Intense cake love below!

{Cake by Superfine Bakery, paper poms from Prost to the Host, linens from Wildflower Linen. Shoot design by Kristeen LaBrot of Kristeen LaBrot Events, photography by Krista Mason}

A couple more pretty details, like paper pom poms and colorful twine…

{clockwise from left: Papered Pom Set from BHLDN & Lokta Paper Twine from BHLDN}

And check out these dresses! what do you think?!? I love the idea of a white dress with a hint of color! Looking back on my wedding, I would probably go this route if I had the chance…what about the maids? I you plan on sticking with all white, perhaps the ladies could make the ombre happen? Thank you, Nicole Miller for dreaming up these adorable dresses pictured below!

{Nicole Miller}

So, are you over ombre yet? hope not! here’s a mishmash of a handful more touches for your wedding…

{clockwise from top left: La Partie Events, Oncewed, Elizabeth Anne Designs, Anne Klein, Oncewed}

And of course, no post is complete without some animal action! okay, okay, I know that he is noBambino McPuppy pants….but meet Frank! aka Frankenstein (that’s what they named him at the pound, I mean c’mon!), Frankers, Franko, Francis, Frankfurter, i think you get the point…

here he is playing with one of my giant yo-yos….he is a sucker for ribbon! {photo courtesy ofJade + Matthew Take Pictures}

Wait and one more thing… I will leave you all to ponder this: Ombre Hair

Pretty sure this is what my hair looks like after I am lazy about dyeing it for a few months…but hey, if it works for Drew….

So what do you y’all think?!  I truly cant wait to hear your responses!

xoxo!  - Andrea, of AGH Event Maker

P.S. – A note from Alison… Since ombre’s super duper popular these days, it’s covered in many more fantastic places that you might want to visit.  So, if you want more Ombre inspiration, be sure to check out…

My girl Kristi, of Luna & Chloe Weddings, where she matches up pretty heels and a stellar cake for a killer feet to mouth ombre factor.  And there was absolutely no foot and mouth disease involved!!!

Belle the Magazine where they pair up that gorgeous Maggie Austin cake with an even gorgeouser Atelier Versace gown that’ll blow your friggin’ MIND.  (Wear a helmet.  Just trust me.)

AGH Event Maker is a member of Vendor Love, The Knotty Bride’s Preferred Vendor Guide.  To view this listing, click here.

Like WHOA.  You guys, I’m sitting in my chair, with Bambino wanting ups, me ignoring his repeated requests for ups, and Bambino releasing aggressive fart bombs immediately beneath me in retribution.  Why am I unable to enjoy his sweet, adorable overtures?  Because I’m still in awe over what just happened.  And that’s saying A LOT, because his sweet overtures look a-something a-like a-this:

see all the redness on my leg? ↓ that’s because we need to cut his nails but he HATES IT. P.S. – he winks a single eye a lot.  never the two shall blink at once.

↓ this is him giving up for a moment; isn’t his dismount cute?

omigod.  I promise, this post is not all puppy pictures.  There’s gonna be like, two more, max.

Ok, as you know, we launched a brand new series on those not-so-perfect real life stories of family + wedding planning = problems.  And we had a moderately interesting talk, eh?  I think we got down to some SERIOUS BUSINESS that really needed addressing in today’s world, regarding relationships, wedding planning and peeling off the facade of what we’ve all come to expect from the world around us when we ultimately announce, “WE’RE GETTING HITCHED!”

Well.  Since launching that series this week, I’ve received approximately a lot of emails recounting personal experiences and requests for advice that not only make my heart ache, but are testament to the simple fact that it’s not all sunshine and lollipops and rainbows and everything.  Oohhh speaking of rainbows…

It’s a rainbow on Bam Bam’s bottom!  Ok back to business...  We’d like to believe that, in the vast majority of cases, family is totally on board and throwing up with overwhelming joy over the fact that you’re getting married.  And a lot of times, that’s the case.  However, it is also not so far off from a norm for family to, on occasion – and sometimes completely unexpectedly – pull a 180 on you, specifically right about when you announce that you’re engaged.  Funny thing, family.  So, it’s become aggressively apparent that we’re going to keep this series going so that those of you out there who are experiencing difficult family issues can, at the very least, feel that you’re faaaaar from alone and, at the very most (is that a phrase?  whatevs – COINED), discover the best, most effective and most diplomatic ways to handle those moments of difficulty so that you’re not stuck suffering through it the entire effing time.  Because MAN, what a drag THAT would be… AMIRITE?  Wedding planning is supposed to be FUN, and you really do deserve to enjoy it!  Seriously, you do!

So, to close up this section, starting this series feels good, feels right.  And the honesty in so many of your reactions to Miss Rhi’s story brought tears to my eyes.  On the realsies.  And I’m just as excited as you are for Miss Rhi’s next installment, because she’s going to bring some tips along with her.

SWITCHING GEARS A BIT FOR TODAY, I thought it would be fun to bring you some glam wedding inspiration in the form of a super fun, super bright, occasionally sparkly and at times even metallic, color story.  High kick, woot!

I’ve been obsessing over everything high flash recently, but I’m also a strong believer in subtlety when it comes to glitz and glamour.  Sooooo… I’ve collected quite the bucketful of elements that would assist you in throwing together a fantastically chic, upbeat and carefree affair with this color story in mind.

Let’s start off with the images at the tippity top of this post, shall we?  I stumbled across that pink and gold candy buffet table, designed by Pinkpolka Wedding Design and picked up by Wedding Obsession.  Beneath it we’ve got a Neon Canvas Platform Sandal by Zara, and a Cream Pleat Belted Dress by Miss Selfridge.  All killer, imho.

Here’s a bunch more stellar neony metallic wedding inspiration to inspire your colorful day.  It brightened up mine, and I was having a pretty freaking BAD day.  No joke.  So I’m hoping that this’ll perk up your afternoon, no matter how it’s going. :)  Note: sources are listed in clockwise order.

Speaking of bad days, here’s something I’m going to call a Fun Friday Fact: You’re allowed to have a bad day.  Everybody does, but not everybody (often, including myself) is able to always remember that that’s totally effing normal.  *Especially* when you’re PMS’ing.

radiant orchid featherweight cashmere cardigan from J.Crew / rhinestone-encrusted sash from J.Crew / Shabby Apple’s Trixie

neon yellow dress via The Glitter Guide /  neon pink gown via flickr / metallic pink flower girl moccasins via Freshly Picked

Neon canvas platform sandal by asos / pink and gold clutch / Letterpress paper elements with hand-painted neon edging, anyone?

Kids’ Field Notes™ notebook three-pack from J.Crew / Jars of glow sticks via Glamour / bridesmaids in neon shoes, which is a sneak peek from an upcoming wedding on TKB!

Neon Nail Colors via Design Crush / yarn pom poofs via Project Wedding, which my girl Maddy of Inspired Bride pinned recently; Photos by Carly Taylor

Bhati Beads Silk Planets bracelet from J.Crew / Colorblock fringe necklace from J.Crew

neon leather capri hot pink sandal via J.Crew / light spearmint cashmere cardigan via J.Crew / neon bouquet featured on Once Wed, Event Design/Styling: bash, please [bash eco events & yes, please design], Photography: featherlove

gold bottom neon case from Freshly Picked / 60s wedding inspiration featured on Once Wed, Event Design/Styling: bash, please [bash eco events & yes, please design], Photography: featherlove

La Pochette clutch from Clare Vivier / neon seating and gold art installation

more pink and gold dessert table inspiration by Pinkpolka Wedding Design / Sleeveless Dress by Zara / / Vonya by Kate Spade

In closing… let’s try to remember that there’s a very fine line between tasteful glamour and glitz, and Disney Princess…

And, finally, in our ongoing series of “A Day in the Life of Bambino McPuppyPants…”

Today, I felt like sharing with you the spot where Bambino tends to be his happiest…

… it’s in his daddy’s arms. :)

SO… thoughts?  Questions?  Like/love/hate/loathe the wedding inspiration today?  I’m open to anything today, as per usual.

And on a FINAL note, I promise… as you know, I had a not so great day, so there’s one more thing I feel compelled to mention today.  (Other than the word “today,” which I seem to be using in every sentence.)  I appreciate you guys, so much, for just generally being such amazeballs individuals.  I love chatting it up with you on the daily, and I feel so lucky to be able to.   SO YEAH THANKS.  Sappiness over. :)

Happy Friday!

xoxo!  – Alison

The first wedding takes place in New York City {representin’ Alison’s hometown} possibly a city hall wedding with a small reception to follow with a few family and friends.  Centerpieces of potted orchids decorate an airy space and in lieu of a traditional wedding cake… pink frosted cupcakes are served to the guests.

City Board: couple on the bridge {simply bloom photography} piano {this is glamorous} escort cards {martha stewart weddings} bouquet {the knot} orchid centerpiece {martha stewart weddings} chalkboard {design sponge} pink cocktails {martha stewart weddings} white utencils and tufted couch {this is glamorous} hydrangea centerpiece {brides} cupcakes {my little things}

The country wedding is sweet and a bit rustic.  A garden shed makes a great backdrop for this outdoor wedding that is surrounded by potted flowers.  Bridesmaids will hold hand-tied bouquets wrapped with magenta ribbon and pashmina wraps are available to keep the chilly air at bay.  The homemade cake is as simple as this wedding.

Country Board: greenhouse {country living} bride {d magazine} garden utencils {kiss the groom} ice cream {tartelette} potted plants {martha stewart} peony bouquet {poppies and posies events} cake {oh joy} bouquet wrapped with velvet ribbon {country living} violets {martha stewart weddings}

So tell me: what are your thoughts on these two distinct settings?  What would you say is more your style?  I’d love to know!

xoxo!  -Chris of Postcards and Pretties

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