Secretly Blue

“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue…”.  We’ve all heard the old saying, but what do you do when this symbol of purity and fidelity clashes with your wedding ensemble like smurf décor at a bachelorette party?  Thanks to our fav site Etsy.com, we’ve hunted down three of the most discrete (not to mention budget friendly) ways to adhereto the old adage without leaving you blue.

Something Blue Tattoo:  This foolproof option can be placed anywhere making it great even for shorter gown options. Just like any temporary tattoo, its easily applied with water and just as easily removed.  A set of 3 will set you back less than $5 with shipping included making this one of our more attractive options.  Pick up a set today at:  http://www.etsy.com/listing/95216255/something-blue-bridal-tattoos.  

Gold TurquoiseAnklet:  This adorable anklet will be discretely hidden under your gown and the tropical gemstone will double as a sweet reminder of your big day in Paradise. And at less than $10 including shipping, it won’t break the bank!  Also available in silver upon request, visit:http://www.etsy.com/shop/GR168/about/for the full variety of styles and options.

 

Custom Bridal Thong:  Nothing is more discrete than hidingyour “something blue” on your unmentionables! These adorable pair can be customized with your new last name and wedding date in any font and ink color of your choice.  Available in woman’s sizes small, medium or large and only $12 plus shipping.  Get yours at:  http://www.etsy.com/listing/107164891/mrs-bridal-thong-date-new.  This keepsake is a must have even if you already have “something blue”.   

iLuv: Custom iphone cases to show off your big day!

Okay, carrying a bulging wallet with those little plastic sleeves are no longer acceptable.  Your “brag book” has now gone to our cell phones.  And, there’s no cuter way to show off your favorite engagement pic or favorite wedding memory than with a customized photo iphone case from Shutterfly.com.  There’s a variety of different styles and customization options allowing you to add up to 3 photos, your wedding date or your new moniker.  Available for the iphone 3G to 4S starting at $34.95.  Get yours at:  http://www.shutterfly.com/photo-gifts/custom-iphone-cases.

“Sphere”iously Chic

Looking for high impact décor without the lace and bling?  Kathleen Golik of TheFindSac.com creates eco-friendly handcrafted spheres ranging from 4 inches to 10 inches in diameter.  The possibilities are endless as the spheres can be custom designed in a variety of sizes to incorporate your wedding colors.  Hang them as featured or place them in vases as unique centerpieces for a clean and simplistic style that’s perfect for an outdoor Hawaiian wedding.  Rather than competing against the natural beauty of the islands, the perfectly round spheres enhance the tropical background.

As a former student of sustainable architecture and interior design, Kathleen puts each sphere through strict quality control to ensure that they are perfectly round and photo-shoot ready.  Her passion for sustainability, creativity and design are evident in each of her pieces and flow hand in hand with the spirit of Aloha. 

You can purchase a set of 5 hanging spheres $55.00 here:   http://www.etsy.com/listing/103027522/wedding-decoration-hanging-spheres  or email her at Kathleen@thefindsac.com for a custom order.

Get Your Fold On...

Want an easy budget friendly way to wow your guests and add to your décor, without breaking the bank? Enlist your bridal party and have a napkin folding party!  Whether you choose an elegant or a unique fold, it's one detail that all your guests definitely won’t miss! 

We love the Bijou fold featured above from Delish.com that mimics a tropical leaf and makes the perfect addition to an island wedding.  The orchid placed on top is an added bonus, making for a clean and stylish place setting.  The step-by-step directions are really easy to follow (http://www.delish.com/recipes/napkin-folding/bijoux-napkin-folding) but you’ll need plenty of starch and an iron to keep the folds nice and crisp.  So, grab your wedding party (or your groom) and get your fold on!  

Lash Out!!!

Parasol Events has a new obsession and “must have” for your wedding week and beyond.  Lash extensions by Leanne Kirk at the Spa at Trump Waikiki will give your look a natural boost and give the illusion that your wearing makeup even if all your sporting is sunscreen!  The mink lashes coupled with Leanne’s artistic touch will be just the added “oomph” you need to carry you from your Welcome BBQ to your Farewell Brunch and beyond!  Plus, on your big day those peepers will be so lusciously framed that you won’t even have to worry about your mascara running when you start to feel a bit misty during your vows.

Leanne takes care to begin with a consultation to take into consideration your lifestyle and the look that you want.  She then uses a variety of sizes, curls and colors to custom create the combination for your eye shape, color and size.  The application will last between 2  ½ to 3 hours during which most clients take a nap.  After which they emerge with almost 80-130+ individual lashes applied.  When completed, the lashes are light, not heavy like your standard glue on false lashes and the effects are amazing.  The initial set will start at $300-$350 with relashes (fills) at $75.  But trust us, this is one wedding splurge you won’t regret!!!

Contact Leanne and schedule your appointment today! Email:  lkirk@trumphotels.com  or visit www.leannekirk.com

North Shore Goodness

Fresh, local, eco-friendly!  Ka’alaCupcakes offers FREE delivery of their delicious cupcakes, cake pops, breadsand yummy treats on the North Shore (Waialua/Mokuleia to Laie)!  Give your guests a distinct taste of aloha withflavors like Lava Flow, Chocolate Haupia (Coconut Pudding) and Li-hingMargarita (Li-hing mui is a popular sweet, sour, and salty powder that issprinkled on pretty much any Hawaiian snack). Their classic flavors topped with fresh strawberries and custom designedcake pops have even our “town brides” paying the nominal $5 delivery fee.

Ka’ala Cupcakes always tries to use the freshest localingredients to support local Hawaiian companies and farmers.  All of their goodies are baked from scratchwith no artificial flavoring.  They useeco-friendly and biodegradable containers and you can sample their goods everySaturday at the North Shore Farmer’s Market held at Sunset Beach ElementarySchool (59-360 Kamehameha Hwy.) 8am – 2pm. Contact them today for your wedding or shower at (808) 291-5728 or visitwww.facebook.com/KaalaCupcakes808.

Give a Little Aloha

When having a wedding in Hawaii, there’s no better way to show your thanks to your bridesmaids or other attendants than to give them something locally made to remember your beautiful occasion.  We’ve featured 3 local jewelry designers with distinctive styles to fit all the personalities on your list!

Noelani Designs:  Designer Noelani Love captures “Paradise” in her graceful pieces using hand-picked shells, feathers, wood, bone, pearls, semi-precious stones and gemstones.  Her collection reflects her youthful energy and timeless casual beauty.  Her pieces have been featured in numerous local magazines as wel as on the celebrity necks and ears of LOST star, Evangeline Lily; KOKUA creator, Kim Johnson; recording artist,  Anuhea; and surf champion and phenoms, Rochelle Ballard, Coco Ho and Kelia Moniz.

One of our favorites the “Lehua” earrings which feature a lightweight airy design that can complement everything from jeans and a t-shirt to a little black dress.  

To see the complete collection visit: www.noelanidesigns.com

Ginger13:  Cindy Yokoyama, features a handmade jewelry collection that is distinctively her own.  Her cheery, eclectic, colorful collection and signature “mis-matched” earrings effortlessly reflect aloha.  She incorporates the elements of the Hawaiian islands in every piece whether it’s the blue of the ocean, colors of the rainbow, greens of the tropical trees, or shells of the fruits.  Her pieces have been featured in many local publications and have been a favorite of local girls for years who are staples at her annual sales.

Our favorite piece in her current collection is the “Ivory Feather” necklace featuring Labradorite Spikes, Feather Amazonite and Swarovski crystal rondelle on a chuncky chain.  

To see the complete collection visit:  www.Ginger13.com

[ki•ele]:  Featuring handmade jewelry with a classic, dainty and detailed style that reflects the spirit of the islands.  Her collection is timeless and simple with pieces that can easily be layered for a more dramatic flair.  Designer and mother of two, Marylea Conrad’s designs have been featured in the Oakley’S summer ad campaign and the “Sports Illustrated 2012 Swimsuit Edition.” 

The Asoka beachy bangle is one of our favs with its pinky-peach fresh water pearl and 14K gold-filled hammered bangle, this bracelet shines on its own or can be stacked and layered with other pieces.

To see the complete collection visit:  : www.ki-ele.com  

Personalize Your Oshi Buri!

A unique touch to any outdoor or destination wedding is the Oshi Buri Service. Traditionally, Oshi Buris are moist hot towels given at Japanese restaurants. With its strong Japanese influences, the Hawaiian culture has adopted the oshi buri service and it can found at many events or occasions to provide guests with an opportunity to “freshen up” with a cold moistened towel. In our humid climate, it’s a much appreciated detail at weddings!



For a DIY Oshi Buri, moisten wash cloths or hand towels (use an aromatic scent like coconut or almond for an added bonus) roll them up and chill in the refrigerator. Present them on a platter or pass around to your guests. A special touch during cocktail hour or after a beach ceremony to wipe their feet clean as featured above from one of Colin Cowie’s weddings: http://www.colincowieweddings.com/inspire-me/the-galleries/wedding-style/destination-weddings/detail/16

For a more personalized oshi buri, we love the idea of using monogrammed or personalized disposable towels like these: http://myweddingreceptionideas.com/fine_linen_guest_towels.asp.

From MyWeddingReceptionIdeas.com ($51.52 for 50). They’re made of thick, absorbent and soft paper/fiber combination that has the look and feel of fine linen cloth giving your oshi buri an elegant yet economical touch.

Pop of Color!

Still dizzy over wedding colors? We’ve pulled the season’s hottest colors from the runways for some hip and modern color schemes. See what these color combos say about you and your wedding style:


Jade and Soft Honey: You’re able to adapt to all situations so don’t stress. Your wedding will be adorned with delicate well thought-out details reflecting your youthful innocence. Your innate ability to comfort will ensure that you’ve anticipated all your guests needs from arrival to the last dance.



Canary Yellow and Pastel Blue: No matter who your guests are they are in for a great time! Your wedding will reflect your free flowing, tranquil energy. You’re generally optimistic and great at putting people at ease. Your wedding will incorporate fun elements that will have all your guests chatting it up and getting’ down on the dance floor.


Grey and Buttercup: You’re a cool and modern bride. You’re idea driven and always positive. You’re wedding will be simple and fresh while oozing with sophisticated creativity. Nobody will want to miss this wedding and there’s no doubt that people will be taking notes for their next shin-dig.



Royal Blue and Kelly Green: You are a traditionalist with a reliable and decisive nature. Your wedding will have regal elements balanced by sentimental accents. Use of your family crest or monograms will give your wedding a powerful touch while sweet floral arrangements will reflect your sensitive and calming side.


Mint and Black: You’re a mysterious balance of sweet femininity with strength and power. Although you’re somewhat of a trendsetter, your overall style is classic and timeless. You’re wedding will have guests talking for months as your personality is reflected in the unexpected details.



Turquoise and Lime: Get ready, because your guests will be geared up for a good time! You’re an enthusiastic and flirtatious bride who knows how to throw a great party. From food and drink to fabulous décor, you’re wedding will have all the elements needed for an extraordinary event.



Aqua and Lavender: Typically you’re easygoing and relaxed but your wedding has you in a lovestruck magical mood. Although you will definitely have some romantic elements, you’re in the mood to surprise people and you’re wedding will contain some amazingly creative elements (think firework display)! Your guests will definitely be in for an unforgettable experience.

SO SHOE ME!

Manolo Blahnik
Swan Embellished Satin Pump

Waist sizes may come and grow but a woman’s shoe size is forever! Wedding shoes are the single most justifiable splurge on your wedding day. This is one element of your wedding attire that yes, you will actually be able to wear again. Not to mention a hot pair of heels make for some great photo opps. Here’s a few of our favorite "wear them again" picks for this season’s brides:

Valentino Couture Bow

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/valentino-couture-bow-pump/3212912?origin=category&resultback=8689

Kate Spade 'Fella' Flat

http://www.katespade.com/designer-shoes/womens-flats/kate-spade-fella-1/S143811I,default,pd.html?dwvar_S143811I_color=101&start=13&cgid=shoes-flats&subid=20648&cm_mmc=pepperjam-_-text-_-generic-_-29302&utm_source=pepperjam&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=text&utm_content=generic&utm_term=29302

Christian Louboutin Disco Noeud Satin Platform Sandal, Champagne

http://www.neimanmarcus.com/product.jsp?icid=&searchType=MAIN&rte=%252Fsearch.jsp%253FN%253D0%2526Ntt%253Dchristian%252Blouboutin%252Bdisco%2526_requesti253D28242&eItemId=prod146180082&itemId=prod146180082&parentId=&cmCat=search

 

 

Vera Wang Lavender 'Lanie Flats: 

 hthttp://shop.nordstrom.com/s/vera-wang-lavender-lanie-flat/3202753?origin=keywordsearch&resultback=2983tp://shop.nordstrom.com/s/valentino-couture-bow-pump/3212912?origin=category&resultback=8689

Miu Miu Leather Open-Toe Wedges:

http://www.miumiu.com/en/US/e-store/dep/shoes/cat/wedges/product/5KZ020_3B10_F0354_F_120

Hair and Makeup by Jeanilou Grace

Jeanilou Grace loves to make women feel beautiful on their wedding day or any day! She makes sure to allow each client’s inner beauty shine through to create timeless and classic looks, while taking care to listen to the needs and preferences of each bride. The three dimensional canvas of a woman’s face is her favorite medium as each one is never like the other. The added challenge of making a photo worthy face also flawless to the naked eye is something that she has down to a science.

“I’ll never tire of the moment when the client looks in the mirror and smiles that irreplaceable smile. Her shoulders fall back with confidence and she’s ready for one of the most memorable days of her life.” -Jeanilou Grace
 
(www.jeanilougrace.com / info@jeanilougrace.com)

Transportation - Great Airport to Waikiki Service

For destination couples, their families and guests I have a real find! Hawaii 23 Transportation. I have used them several times and they are hands down the best value on the island for getting back and forth from Honolulu International Airport and Waikiki.

The cost is just $23 dollars - less then the airport shuttle for 2 people and direct service to your hotel. I highly recommend checking them out if you need a ride:)

http://www.hawaii23.com/

More Cool Wood - A Wedding Guest Book

It is so exciting to share new ideas that I come across. Guest books don't have to be books!













Here is a fun idea that can be customized to your event.

A wood puzzle with pieces that can be signed by your guests. Customize the puzzle shape or color to tie into your own event. These were found on one of my favorite sites - Etsy!

Shown - Bella Puzzles & Double Trouble Jigsaw Puzzles.

Hawaiian Koa Wood Postcards for Save the Dates

I found these totally original 100% Hawaiian Koa Wood postcards at a hip & funky store near Waikiki called Peggy's Picks. The Diamond Head card is just one of many postcards available.

Cards can be customized by the company who makes them, Koa Kards, or you can simply hand write your Save the Date info on the back. Either way they are a really unique way to announce your upcoming Destination Wedding.

To view more options (including vintage hula, honu, or tropical flowers) visit either of the website links listed here - www.maheaulumaka.com or www.koacards.com

Time for the two of you

For Destination Brides & Grooms, arriving one week prior to their wedding day (especially important if traveling across several times zones) is ideal. If they cannot pull that off - then 3 days in advance is adequate but not optimal.

This allows you time to accomplish;

• hair & make- up trial
• fitting for Tux
• pressing/steaming of the bridal gown
  
• learning your way around Oahu
  
• time to connect with your coordinator or vendors
  
• manicure/pedicure appointments
• last minute purchases

and most importantly - time to decompress from wrapping up all the details back home. And one more quick tip - book travel early for the best airfare prices.

Get Inspired! The Kahala Hotel & Resort Bridal Showcase 2012

The Kahala Hotel & Resort is an incredible venue with top notch service and sumptuous cuisine.

Each year, Parasol Events along with other top Hawaii wedding professionals, have the honor of participating in the Kahala Bridal Showcase.

If you are available on Friday, February 17th come join us. It is a productive, informative and inspiring few hours. And don't worry about missing dinner. The food is going to be delicious!

To register follow this link -
http://www.kahalaresort.com/events/index.cfm?eventId=EV_20111222141125806330

Now that is a new way to use a Wine Glass

Here is one of the fun ideas shown at the Honolulu Bride's Club Wedding Expo in last weekend.

With lighting being one of the most fundamental ways to create ambiance this concept was an instant "win" with me.

You can find these shades @ www.mygiftshop.theaspenshops.com and if you use code 4925fifteen before March 31, 2012 you can save 15%.

Standby for more Finds from the expo. Smile:)

OMGoodness - OLA!!!!!

When I want to get out of town, I head up to the North Shore. One of my very favorite places to dine is Ola at Turtle Bay.
The food as shown - yum. What I love so much is that it is located right on the beach - at some tables you can literally dine with sand right under your feet. Ocean breezes flow through the open air restaurant and the sounds of the waves lull.
Ola is available for buyouts (for wedding receptions, welcome celebrations or rehearsal dinners). There are lots of photos of the restaurant and the menu is available here too-
http://www.olaislife.com/index2.php#/home/

PS- New blog entry motivated by my calls with Gina, Holly and Tamara today:)

2012 - The Year to Get Fit & Get Married

Here is to 2012! Do you want to give yourself a pre-wedding healthy makeover? This program would make an excellent engagement gift, pre- wedding fitness/health tune-up, couples getaway, or bachelorette week.
With the focus on your wedding this is a good way to reset, take a deep breath, and pare down to the best you.

http://liveweightlossvacations.com