Rocky Mountain Bride Magazine's Regional Debut

You know when something so meaningful happens to you that you actually don't want to share it with the world just yet, instead you want to hold onto it for a little while longer in your own quiet and safe space and take it all in? That's how I have been feeling about the debut of Rocky Mountain Bride Magazine's regional launch featuring the big editorial I designed for them back in October. It's been a journey getting to this place and I never want to lose site of my gratitude or faith in what my dream and goal of Ira and Lucy is. I've been experiencing a ton of emotions leading up to this week and finally holding the magazine in my hands and seeing my work on actual magazine pages, it's surreal! Thank you Rocky Mountain Magazine for this incredible opportunity. Every single page is beautiful and it's an honor being party of such a gorgeous collection!

Magazines will be hitting the shelves any day now! In the meantime, if you are anxious to see this gorgeous magazine and start getting some fabulous design and planning tips you can head to the virtual magazine, but for reals, you really do need a hard copy! It's stunning! 

Starting 2016 Saving Money!

Ira + Lucy Wedding Tips

brrrr.... it's cold outside!

So, last night we were down to 1 DEGREE!!! And today's high was only 12.... Brrrr it's freezing! But, then I found this HOT deal today out running errands! I'll be honest, I don't shop much at Craft Warehouse, I think it's too pricey there and I'm very selective on what I do buy and that is usually if I have a coupon. As a Designer and working my butt off trying to find ways to give you beautiful weddings, while thinking of your wallet I do love when I land on cost savings. AND I usually try to source items via wholesale outlets and other connections we have. So, today I found these Pashmina scarves at $5 each in a wide variety of colors.

This is a great option for buying in bulk! Have 150 guests? Estimate half are female and plan for only a portion of those guests will use a scarf. I'd suggest 50! Keep your receipt and anything that isn't used you can return.

PASHMINA

Pashmina is the finest type of cashmere wool. The textiles made from it were first woven in Kashmir. The name comes from Persian: پشمینه‎‎ / pašmina, meaning "made from wool" and literally translates to "Soft Gold" in Kashmiri -

Sure, you can find these a little cheaper on wholesale sites around $3.50 each, but I vote for the $5 option where you can see the colors in person and feel the quality! I say the peace of mind is well worth the extra $1.50! Plus, any you don't use simply return! Keep your receipt!

RECEPTION DETAILS

Drape scarves over your guests chairs, allowing them an option for warming up while toasts, cake cutting and other formalities are happening.
 
Jen Rodriguez Photography
 

BRIDESMAID GIFTS

Don't forget your girls! Take care of your bridesmaids and think through how to keep them comfortable while looking their best! 

 
Meagan Ramirez Photography
 

GUEST GIFTS

Place rolled scarves with customized notes and place in a basket, industrial metal crate, vintage apple crate or other design element that matches your decor.

 
Laura Murray Photography
 

Sneak Peek!

Fine Art Bridal Boudoir

"As if you were on fire from within.
The moon lives in the lining of your skin."

Pablo Neruda

Veronica Sheaffer Design Studio

Are you ready for some gorgeous sneak peeks from the fine art inspired‪ boudoir session we recently created with Jennifer Munoz? This is my personal favorite form of boudoir - enhancing the soft tones, romantic curves, textures and lighting. It's about evoking emotions and telling a story. I'm smitten over the gorgeous delicate lingerie line from Veronica Sheaffer, Chicago's premier design studio! How dreamy! The lingerie paired incredibly well with the handcrafted crown and hair adornments by Naturae Design.

Introducing Naturae Design

How in love are we with Naturae Design, specializing in hairpiece and design created with antique and precious materials. Each piece is handcrafted by maker and designer Daniella van den Huijssen. "Fascinated by the history of precious heirloom and her love for nature she came across an antique Myrtle crown and Naturae Design was born. Every piece is inspired by natural elements made by a combination of the best in antique and modern craftmanship. Gold and silver plated pieces and precious stones are wired and soldered by hand so that each piece holds its fairness through long periods of time. The designs are perfect for a bride to be as well as being able to wear in daily life." source

Fine Art Boudoir

So, how does a bride like yourself or newlywed experience a Fine Art Boudoir session? First, contact Jennifer Munoz to start the process! She has Boudoir packages available and will walk you through your personalized options. Jennifer and I can then work close together on creating the atmosphere you desire, utilizing the vast array of items in our carefully curated collection of furniture and accessories. This is a beautiful option as a private and personal gift for your groom.

Thank You Creative Team!

Jennifer Munoz Photography
Ira + Lucy, Creative Designer & Vintage Furniture + Accessories
Still Water Hollow
Naturae Design Crowns & Headpieces
Veronica Sheaffer Bridal, Lingerie
Blush by Jamie Rose, Makeup
Shawna Hines, Hair
Sugared Memories, Tarts
Sarah Pearl Studio, Calligraphy
Alex Foster, Model
Blooms Flower Studio, Florals
LaNeige Bridal, Veil
Molly Loughran, Assisting, Ira + Lucy
 

Let's Talk Dapper Groom and Groomsmen

Let's talk "Dapper" groom and his groomsmen!SMART . SEXY . STYLISH

With so much focus on the girls, what about our handsome gents? All too often we hear it's "all about the bride", which I do just hate. It completely takes away from what a wedding is all about, the couple and their commitment to marriage. So, today we are focusing on men's attire and how you handsome guys can look your very best on your wedding day! We'll talk about grooming, hair, shaving tips and more later, but right now let's talk about some basic concepts!

1. Think about TEXTURE - layer your textures. This works particularly well for Fall Season Grooms and Groomsmen. Think wool blend blazers and vests, patterned shirts and accent bow ties. Keep the Groom's attire standing out enough from the groomsmen.
2. Don't overlook the shoes! This is often a last minute detail and not worth throwing on a pair of old dress shoes... Complete the look. Think tonal oxfords or monkstrap for the more adventurous fashion forward guys out there.
3. Tailor that suit! Spend a little time looking up men's fashion, and we're not talking the ridiculously "couture" fashion. Peruse Pinterest, browse through GQ, hit up JCrew or Banana Republic and you'll see something in common - NO BAGGY SUITS or tuxes. Please, take the time to have your suit properly tailored to your body. I know some of you bigger gents are thinking I'm suggesting a tiny "skinny" suit that is so not your style, and no - simply, that you need to have your suit tailored to your body. You will look like a million bucks!
4. Build your attire around the design of your wedding. You need to be cohesive with the rest of the decor elements. Don't think matchy-matchy, but do be sure you are dressed for the occasion. Below is a great example of a more elegant occasion with a more formal black jacket and crisp tux shirt, but the bow tie steps up the game! The adorable couple on the right is for you summer couples! The light blue shirt (again not baggy) with the coordinating suspenders and the gray slacks looks relaxed, gentlemanly and quite dashing!

Be sure to check out The Tie Bar and Collared Greens, which by the way is offering 25% discount right now! Both companies have some awesome options! In fact, I just had next weekend's bride order her guys some bow ties and a tie for her fiance from The Tie Bar! Hope this helps you guys out!

Table Makeover Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Tutorial

via Snippet and Ink

French Country Inspired Table

Those of you that know me or follow us on Instagram or Pinterest know that I have a real adoration for the French Country style. I would say it's my favorite. Unfortunately, when it comes to sourcing these stunning tables... we're talking $1500 - $4000 per table!!! There is absolutely no way we are ever going to be able to swing that high price, nor are any of our clients. So, it's time to get creative! Let me introduce you to my go-to paint! First, we'll share the the design concepts from Pottery Barn and Restoration Hardware. How lovely are these pedestal style options and out of this world "farm tables".

Meet Annie Sloan Chalk Paint

There are a variety of chalk paint options. I first started by making my own DIY chalk paint and it was a hot mess. So, I started doing my research and found that Annie Sloan is an exceptional option. I went that route and haven't ever turned back. I've been so pleased with the versatility of this paint and it is so gorgeous! It's a learning curve to work with chalk paint, but totally doable and the more you do it the better you will get. Annie Sloan paints are fun to use, work on almost all surfaces and offers ultimate flexibility with colours that can be mixed well together, lightened or darkened. Chalk Paint® can be thickened or thinned, used as a wash or even a dye. Seal it with Clear Soft Wax and age it with Dark Soft Wax. I have yet to try all these gorgeous colors, but do have experience with: Pure White, Old White, Paris Grey, French Linen and Coco. I will warn you that the Old White tends to have a little yellow to it and when the wax is over it, it definitely is not white white. So, for those of us wanting white white, go with the Pure.

DIY French Country Vintage Table

I found this beauty on craigslist this morning and immediately jumped on it! I've been on the hunt for a table that is dining height or taller, not too large, but not small like an entryway hall table... I needed something that would fit a large feature wedding cake on. Most dining tables are just too big. Searching for pedestal tables has just resulted in too high of a price tag. We are only a few years old business, so we watch every penny!

PERK, it came with a matching custom glass top! THIS IS AWESOME! For our clients who want tons of dripping candles, tables and linen always get damaged if we don't have glass to protect the surface. This table has a protective top to cover the wood, or if you want to place a sequin or specialty linen the glass can cover it for protection. Candles and fine linen are lovely, but logistically, you need to think through damages.

The Steps

1. Check the structure of your furniture, make sure no repairs are needed for stability, cracks, tightening legs etc. We will talk about furniture repair later.
2. Wipe down your table with a damp cloth, cleaning all the grime off. Keep in mind furniture from garages, thrift stores etc are pretty grimy. Take the time to clean it now, or you'll regret it if you don't...
3. Time to paint! WAIT WHAT ABOUT SANDING?! Nope! Welcome to Annie Sloan Chalk Paint! No sanding needed! HELLO lovely! If you've sanded furniture before, you know it takes forever! Not with chalk paint!
4. I've included this awesome tutorial below by Annie herself :) Start painting! No need to get concerned about brush strokes. The paint will dry very quickly, another perk! You can complete your project all in the same day!
5. I painted three light layers of French Linen on the table first. I like a nice full coverage. I pour the paint into a container and add in some water to create a milk like consistency. That's the fun part! You can either have the paint thick, or like a milk consistency or really watered down for a white wash effect. I recommend trying the same consistency I do in order to preserve your paint. It's pricey and you'll blow through your paint if you keep it as thick as it comes in the can.

I then did more of the white wash effect with Paris Grey mixed into the remaining amounts of the French Linen I had left in my container. I didn't want to have too strong of a contrast. I use my Annie Sloan paint brush, which I highly recommend, but you can use an old brush if you don't want to splurge on the brushes. This takes practice! You'll have to play around with how to apply it. I like to keep the bristles as dry as possible to add on the lighter tone.

Time to wax! I did both dark and clear wax on my table and it was exactly what it needed! Don't overdo the wax and make sure to wipe it down and work in small sections as you go. I like to scoop some wax onto the paper plate and dab my wax brush into the wax and then take some of the excess off on the plate. I use old t shirts to buff the wax into the table. You should be able to slide your hand easily over the furniture. If you have drag on the furniture, then you need to keep buffing the wax out.

Get the Look For Less!

Be sure to check out our other inventory options perfect for those of you loving the French Country style!

Annie Sloan Tutorials

https://youtu.be/mjxKGQrO1UE

https://youtu.be/v_EaaCZVYv8

Ira + Lucy Design and Coordination Services

Ira + Lucy Design and Coordination Services

It's so fun to update our service package covers with images from some of our couples! Ira + Lucy first began as a vintage rental business and quickly expanded to offer both coordination and design. It's much like being an interior designer, there is a need for designers, here's an analogy for you: for many of you, if given a bunch of home decor dropped at your front door...you'd first get excited, you'd jump in, sifting through boxes and trying to arrange furniture and then you'd get overwhelmed and end up sitting on the floor eating pizza, crying all while surrounded by a lot of "stuff" and no idea how to pull it all together. For many of our renters, they would rent decor and then feel frustrated figuring out how to make it look the way they saw it on Pinterest. This is WHY we offer design services, either "Enhanced Day-Of" for the DIY'r out there who has a good handle on the majority of your decor and then the Full Designer service, in which you have a designer's touch on everything! Think of us as your "interior designer" for your wedding! You can learn more about our different design and coordination help under the "services" and sub-page, "packages" page. We have a variety of options to fit your budget!

Here's a great article from Bride's Magazine "Should You Hire a Wedding Designer?"

"For starters, you can think of a wedding planner kind of like a house contractor and a wedding designer (or stylist/architect) like the interior designer for the home. "Wedding planners excel with the logistics, such as timelines and budgets, and are often certified in event management, whereas wedding designers excel at visual presentation and creating the overall cohesive look of the event from start to finish," says Lynn D'Ascanio of D'Asigner Events. In fact, many wedding designers are licensed interior designers and fashion designers too.

They can help you with all of the aesthetic and creative decisions, according to event designer Tracy Taylor Ward. "This includes floral design, floor plans, lighting design, linen, furniture and rentals selection (china, glassware, flatware), bride and bridal party styling, invitation design and reception stationary consulting."

If you're still not sure if a wedding designer is right for you, here's how to decide" READ MORE HERE

Stephanie Mballo Photography Ira + Lucy, Wedding Design Behrens Artistry

Ira + Lucy Wedding Lounge Design Basics

 Ira + Lucy Wedding Lounge Design Basics

We love us a beautiful AND functioning lounge or multiple lounge set ups at weddings and special events, including corporate events. Lounges offer comfortable and intimate conversation areas that guests can sit back, enjoy cocktails, watch guests dance the night away and also work as awesome props for bridal party photos. However, there are specifics you should keep in mind when planning your lounge. Ira + Lucy has been designing lounges for weddings and events for three years now and we are happy to share some insight with you.

• RENT the splurges and utilize your own home decor! Get frugal! Rent the larger items, like the sofa, but source some of your own decor. Lamps? Vases and candles? Even throw pillows or an accent rug. We often incorporate the client's personal belongings into the design, BUT beware, don't use something that has high value or can easily be swiped from a guest that you care a lot about. Items below are coming soon! Inquire to reserve!
• Accent with accessories. Add a pop of color with custom pillows, floral design and signage. Rent from local designers or hit up Home Goods, TJ Maxx, Amazon or Target. I personally love discount designer fabric warehouses were I can find quality and gorgeous fabric for a fraction of the price and then I sew covers over pillow inserts I already have! PLUS, many of these stores have pretty flimsy and floppy pillows. Either invest in fuller pillows or cut a small hole in your cheaper pillows and add filler! You want your pillows to have body! Learn how to do this easy sew project and save yourself a ton of money over the long haul! Perhaps I'll teach a class and I can show you! Stay tuned! Let me know if that is something you'd be interested in!
• Utilize the decor for photos. I always connect with the photographer before one of our events and let them see the design boards and special decor details. When you are doing your pre-ceremony pics, have your crew carry out the sofa, loveseat, settee and accent chairs for some out of this world photos! 
• Hire a wedding designer! A designer thinks through the logistics! Delivery, insurance, floor layout, best location for your lounge (don't place it too far from your dance floor and bar!) A designer also knows how to achieve the style you want: shabby chic, rustic elegance, luxuries, modern contemporary, french country and more! You can learn more about the difference between a wedding coordinator and designer right here!

Hope this helps you with decisions for your custom lounge at your wedding or special event! We specialize in wedding and event design and would be thrilled to help you design your lounge space. Be sure to check out our variety of special accent seating, including sofas, settees, ottomans and more! Everything listed in this post is available through us to rent! YAY! *top inspiration concept image from Pinterest.

Savings!!! Right now until the end of August 2015, new couples who book Ira + Lucy for both coordination and design will receive a sofa, settee or love seat from our rental inventory at no additional rental cost! That is a savings up to $300!!!

Still Water Hollow Raves About Ira + Lucy Wedding Planner

"As the owner of a local Idaho event venue, Still Water Hollow, I have had the privilege of working closely with Heidi Wight and the Ira & Lucy team. It began with Heidi and myself putting on events together to help inspire Bride's and bless the couples who were preparing for their wedding day. I saw she had a creative and gifted mind in the area of decor and quickly noticed she could make a dramatic impact without a lot of fuss. I also saw her attention to detail and her deep care for her clients. I felt confident in referring Ira & Lucy, knowing our clients would be taken care of and would be very happy with their rentals and decor.

Recently, I have gotten to see first hand what an impressive job the entire Ira & Lucy team does when taking on event design, decor, vintage rentals, and coordination as a whole. I am convinced that this is the solution to pulling off a wedding or special event with little to no stress.

On the design and decor front, Heidi has the ability to see the big picture and help those planning an event understand what will give them the most dramatic impact. Rather than spending a little money here and there on things that will most likely go unnoticed, but will add up quickly, Heidi has knowledge of where to save and where to really invest. The events Heidi has decorated always look stunning, but each one has a style that showcases the Bride and Grooms individual personalities or the theme that the company is hoping to convey. There is always an elegant flair whether it is a rustic country wedding or a black tie affair. Creating an atmosphere worthy of celebrating and making lifelong memories.

The Coordination part of this is so important. Please do not underestimate the value of hiring a coordinator. On a personal level, I chose not to hire a coordinator at my wedding and both my mom and I would like a do-ver on that decision. My mom and I are very close and I would have loved to have her by my side as I got ready and during the prayer before I walked down the aisle, but she was out making sure vendors were setup and tying up loose ends. She had to change her dress quickly as guests were getting settled into their seats. Leaving us with little memories of being together on that day.

As a venue, we unfortuantely see many events become stressful and overwhelming to those planning. In the case of weddings, we have seen mothers who don't get to spend time with their daughters. We have seen Bride's who have had to focus attention on decor rather than on the deep and meaningful commitment they are about to enter into with the love of their life. We have seen company employees who have had little experience planning large events feel overwhelmed and unsure how to handle difficult situations. On the contrary, with the Ira & Lucy team coordinating a recent event, we were aware of many things going awry behind the scenes, but not one family member, the parents of the Bride and Groom, or the couple had any idea what was taking place. Heidi took care of everything professionally and quickly to ensure the couple and the family had a wonderful evening and left with only sacred moments that will be shared around the dinner table for years to come.

I trust Ira & Lucy with any event I plan in the future and I highly recommend that couples invest in a decor team and coordinator who will ensure their day goes off without a hitch. Many couples spend $2,000-$3,000 on a tent to protect their event from being rained on, but few think of the protection they can gain from someone there making sure you spend the day surrounded by your family and focused on the real meaning of your wedding celebration. That is priceless!"

Brianne Gray Owner and fellow farm girl of Still Water Hollow