All Buttoned-Up

Vintage Travel Baby Shower

2011-08-26T11:02:00.004-04:00

We've been busy setting up for the baby shower this weekend and I am just in love with how the paper lanterns and toy airplanes look together and wanted to give you a sneak peak!

We still have two more strands to finish hanging on the other side of the room. We hope Hurricane Irene stays away so we can welcome guests aboard on Sunday!

Specialty Cocktails

2011-08-23T10:49:00.003-04:00

I was so excited to see how these custom ice luges turned out for the specialty cocktail station. They were fabulous and definitely became a conversation starter and a mingling place! These images do not do them justice, but were all I could snap with my camera phone during the hustle and bustle of coordinating the wedding. As soon as I have images from our fabulous Photog, Peter Stepanek, I will be sure to post those.

We had two guest bartenders, Micah and Ari Wilder, who were former co-workers of my Bride - & they whipped up their secret sauce to create specialty drinks for the Bride and Groom.

The Blair - Pisco, Chartreuse Yellow, Wilder Bros Pineapple Gomme Syrup, Pressed Pineapple Juice, Fresh Lemon Juice & Peychauds Bitters.

The Curt - Silver Tequila, Violet Liqueur, Wilder Bros Prickle & Fresh Lime

To chill the beverage, they poured the drink through the ice luge into a glass at the bottom. Infused in the ice blocks were: Pineapple, Lemon and Rosemary. And the other had Habanero Peppers, Prickly Pear and Lime.

The guests loved the drinks!

Specialty Cocktails

2011-08-10T13:57:00.004-04:00

Just got back from Wegman's and picked up the goodies to fill two fruit luges for signature cocktails that will be served during the cocktail hour at the Curran/Nottingham wedding.

Fruit luge one will be filled with lemon, pineapple and rosemary. The second fruit luge will be prickly pear, lime, cherries and habanero peppers. So, basically it's a block of ice with all the ingredients frozen inside. The bartenders will make the drink and chill it by pouring it in the tube that runs down the center of the ice and funnels into a cut out at the bottom where the bartenders will set the glass. I found a picture online that will be similar to what we are having created.

We are mixing up a lot of love with a dose of spice and a little passion to create these signature concoctions! Can't wait to see the end result next weekend!

Image via Brilliant Ice Sculpture

Vintage Travel Baby Shower

2011-08-02T16:13:00.005-04:00

Just finished printing the invites from Nounces design & the envelopes were delivered earlier today! Love how they turned out & had to share!

Featured! Bump Smitten

2011-08-01T16:09:00.005-04:00

We are about to pop with excitement over our feature on Bump Smitten today! We thought our party was fun & fab and so glad that they were smitten with it as well :) Cheers to our friend Jess Creates as well!

http://www.bumpsmitten.com/2011/08/real-baby-shower-ready-to-pop.html

Images via Jess Creates!

Favor Love!

2011-08-01T11:36:00.004-04:00

I am in love with this wedding favor posted over on Capitol Romance I don't know if it's because we are little biased in our love for Maryland crabs, but this is just too darn cute not to share!

Image via Capitol Romance

6 Pounds of Hamburger, Sofas, Printer Ink and Wedding Dresses?!

2011-07-29T12:24:00.005-04:00

Just when I thought Costco really has it all - they one up us again. A few months ago, Costco announced that they will carry designer wedding gowns by Kirstie Kelly at 40% off retail. The trunk show will be in the DC area Aug. 4-7 at the Chantilly store - 14390 Chantilly Crossing Lane, Chantilly, VA 20151; 703.885.5541. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are recommended. I am going to have to check this out in person!

See the dresses!

Interested to find when they are coming to a store near you?

One of my favorite dresses from Kirstie's collection retails for just $999!

Images via Linzi Events & Kirstie Kelly

Beat the Heat

2011-07-27T13:03:00.002-04:00

Nothing beats the summer heat like ice cream. Our favorite ice cream spot in our home town is Kline's Freeze. They have the best soft serve I have ever tasted and their Boston Shake is to die for. I want to drive there right now and get one!!

I remember when I was little I would order a chocolate cone dipped in chocolate and it would quickly drip and melt all down my hands into a sticky mess. Kline's sits up on a hill over looking route 28 in Manassas, VA. If you are ever in the area between March - Oct., it's a must stop! The line will be out both doors in the summer, but it's worth the wait.

Image via OtherThink

Fall Wish List

2011-07-26T11:36:00.003-04:00

Summer is flying by and my J.Crew mailer has me excited with some fall sneak peaks! While I will savor my September beach vacation, I can't help but get excited for fall sweaters, jackets & boots! Here are a few of my wish list items:

henley sweater">

images via J.Crew

Baby On Board!

2011-07-18T22:01:00.011-04:00

Pulling together inspiration for a vintage travel themed baby shower. All Aboard!

Images Via Bronze Budget Bride; A Lovely Being; Kaboodle; Hobby Linc; World Map Images; The Airplane info;

Garden Escape

2011-07-15T10:44:00.007-04:00

Happy Friday! We are building our table for the 2011-2012 bridal shows and wanted to go with a rustic garden theme. Here is some garden escape inspiration -

Images via Artsy Muse; Ruffled; Jose Villa photography; Elizabeth Messina photography;

In Love!

2011-07-13T22:00:00.005-04:00

Being a proud Mama of this little stud muffin, I just couldn't help but share his latest impromptu photo shoot from Jess Creates!

Slip Away Together

2011-07-12T12:32:00.006-04:00

I have always been a big advocate to go BIG or go home with the honeymoon and now that I am a Mom, I can't stress enough that you should make this trip a big splash! If you are in the DC area and are looking for a great travel agent - I recommend Perfect Honeymoons and Holidays and Power Trips.

Enjoy some pics from our honeymoon in Bora Bora planned by Perfect Honeymoons!

Pretty Pretty Paper

2011-07-11T11:58:00.007-04:00

Today is National Town Crier Day, no I didn't make this up...it really exists (second Monday in July)! We are so thankful for the printing press so that we can make beautiful invites to spread the news!

By Invitation Only

JessCreates

Hitched Stationery

Dining Room Inspiration

2011-07-07T21:16:00.003-04:00

Yes - my wedding china is still in boxes in our basement & we celebrate our third anniversary in November!

We moved out of our condo and into a house a year and half ago and I was so excited to get my china from my Mom's to have at our house! But - we have done so many projects to make this house a home and the dining room is the last untouched room, but now I want to focus my attention on it and make it as unique as my office.

First Up - I want to find a Harvest Table like this one on Country Living. Any suggestions on where to find one?

Image Via Country Living

Retro Wedding Photo Display!

2011-07-07T11:22:00.005-04:00

Loving this post from Brides magazine providing an alternative way to display your wedding photos!

I am thinking about using it for my son's first birthday to track him through his first year! Could also be used as a thank you gift to your parents or displaying your engagement photos to keep your guests entertained!

Simply go to Image 3D upload your digital images, add 3D captions and a few days later your view master will arrive in a sleek white box on your doorstep. The first set (includes viewer, one reel and gift box) is $25 with additional sets costing just $15 each.

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Image via Brides

I SCREAM You SCREAM We all SCREAM

2011-07-06T18:32:00.013-04:00

FOR ICE CREAM!

Image via The Good Food Buzz

July is national ice cream month so why not keep your guests cool and entertained with an ice cream bar! Bringing you some Etsy Ice Cream love!

Love these Sugar cone sleeves we found from RefreshMyHeart

These Wooden Ice Cream Spoons from SucreandSpice can be made in any color combination!

Custom stickers to adorn your paper ice cream cups from ohsogoodiedesigns

Cupcake toppers like these from PartyOnDigital double as ice cream cup toppers & make a sweet monogrammed addition

Christmas in July!

2011-07-01T21:59:00.006-04:00

While everyone around the US celebrates the 4th of July this weekend, our family has Christmas in July. Since my in-laws relocated to the beach and never get to have Christmas in their beautiful home they decided to host the family for an honorary Christmas in July every year.

So, every year in July my family and my sister-in-laws fam from Seattle gather in NC and enjoy 95* in the sand and the sun and gather around the Christmas tree in the evening. Santa comes every night and the house is quite the neighborhood spectacle; my MIL decorates the outside of the house with garland, bows and red, white and blue Christmas lights. Yes, we do celebrate America too - thank you to our troops!

Sparkler Send Off

2011-07-01T21:26:00.009-04:00

Happy 4th of July!

Red Ribbon Studio, La Vita Bella Events, WeddingBee, Savoir Weddings, I Do Details events, Ann and Spencer Photography

2011-07-01T21:02:00.003-04:00

Jess Creates has done it for us yet again! Love these fab personalized note cards she made for Carson!

Images via Jess Creates

Let's Go Camping!

2011-06-27T18:22:00.007-04:00

In honor of national camping moth we wanted to do a round-up on camping ideas for your wedding.

Mmm! I am loving this recipe I stumbled upon on Pizzazzerie. These S'more truffles would make the perfect inexpensive favor tied-up in a piece of burlap.

Ingredients:

9 oz bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped (about 1.25 cups)

2/3 cup cream

4 graham cracker sheets or 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup miniature marshmellows

2 tbsp butter

Directions:

Melt butter in medium size saucepan. Whisk in cream and bring to rapid boil. Remove pan from heat and stir in chocolate chips. Place saucepan in fridge for about 1 hour or until firm. Using your hands roll chocolate into ball around mini marshmellows. Roll chocolate in crushed graham crackers. Place in fridge to harden.

Image via Pizzazzerie

School's Out

2011-06-20T10:06:00.013-04:00

For many of you school let out awhile ago, but for us in the northern VA area, last week and this week mark the last days of school. Congrats 2011 grads!

Here is some school inspiration for your inner nerd -

As I was pulling images for this post I realized it was two of my good friends in the Sweetest Occasion photo shoot - small world & congrats Lyssa on Kris - are we going on 13 years now?!

Images via PrettyLittleFings, The Light Fantastic, TheSweetestOccasion, ElizabethAnnDesigns, Our Wedding In The Making..., One Wed, Bragging Bags, Oh So Beautiful Paper

Sun & Sand

2011-06-16T17:09:00.005-04:00

Today is flip-flop day so slap some new paint on those pretty little toes and let them breathe!

Flip-flops and beach go hand-in-hand. Loving this little something blue vintage beach spread we put together over at Style Me pretty -

Images via Southern Weddings, Credit Crunch Bride

Pitch a Tent

2011-06-16T10:58:00.010-04:00

Pitch a tent in honor of National Camping Month!

Images via blogthelane, JessCreates, WeddingBee, RitzyBee via The BonBon Blog, Studio Juno, JacquelineChapelle

Farm-To-Table

2011-06-15T09:59:00.007-04:00

Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards in Charlottsville, VA allows your guests to enjoy the panoramic mountain backdrop while enjoying traditional menus centered on the abundance of locally produced veggies, fruit, meat and cheeses from local farmers.

Acacia in Frederick Maryland is a smaller venue and may be a great rehearsal dinner option. Acacia emphasizes fresh natural ingredients prepared on site using whole grains and organic products produced locally whenever possible. It is new American cuisine with exotic fusion in a warm California setting.

ABU hosted a wedding last September at Grandale Farm in Purcellville, VA. Head chef AJ Clark is an amazing host and prepares an exquisite menu made from scratch using locally ingredients whenever possible. Grandale provides catering services to several nearby vineyards as well.

For those of you who want farm-to-table ingredients, but don't necessarily want the rustic backdrop, Ridgewells catering whips up delicious and beautiful menus from sustainable farm-to-table ingredients. They are leading the way with organic and green entertaining in the Washington, DC area.

Images via (2) Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards and Ridgewells

National Flag Day

2011-06-14T22:06:00.005-04:00

Today is National Flag Day!

Images via SMP, Martha Stewart Weddings, Cake Central, victorianstation

Tips to host an Eco-Friendly Wedding

2011-06-14T11:00:00.011-04:00

Looking to host a full-on sustainable wedding or maybe just want to infuse some green trends? Here are some tips and a few of our fav eco-friendly finds:

Green doesn't have to sacrifice beauty these days, look for invitations printed on recycled paper with recycled ink in an arrangement of colors and finishes. You can even buy seed paper and your guests can plant their invite to grow pretty wildflowers or herbs for their garden!

There are plenty of options out there for eco-friendly guest favors and they range in price. In lieu of favors, you may consider donating money to a Green cause. Two of our favorites - Bamboo servers & seed paper!

These recycled glass vases from Anthropologie will make cute centerpieces or great gifts for the bridal party -

Recycled Bride offers used bridal attire and accessories! Shop at the farmer's market or go with a farm-to-table and support your local communities. Live in the DC area and looking for a spot to host a farm-to-table wedding, All Buttoned-Up did a wedding last September at Grandale Farm. It was a beautiful setting and the food was exquisite.

Check back tomorrow and we will do a local round-up of farm-to-table options around DC!

Images via JessCreates, Green Wedding, Botanical PaperWorks, Anthropologie

All Aboard

2011-06-13T13:31:00.007-04:00

After meeting with my Aug. bride this weekend and discussing her upcoming ceremony aboard the Cherry Blossom - I am loving all things nautical. Have a nautical Monday!

Images via Wedding ideas & tips, Brides, Beach House Living, SMP

Anchors Aweigh!

2011-06-13T12:30:00.001-04:00

I am so in love with this photo prop!

This Wedding Sets Sail Aug. 21

2011-06-12T20:36:00.005-04:00

Had a wedding meeting today with the best MOB in the world. Blair's Mom is one amazing woman! So many details and such a fun crowd - can't wait to set sail with this couple in August! Here is a sneak peak at some of the goodies we are working on...

Bon Voyage

2011-06-12T20:26:00.002-04:00

OH HAPPY DAY wants to send you and a guest to Paris! Spread the news to increase your chances and hopefully you and a lucky guest will be packing your bags.

Choosing a Wedding Photog

2011-06-10T11:47:00.000-04:00

Great Advice for choosing your wedding photog - Expert Advice: Photographer Elizabeth Messina - The Bride's Guide : Martha Stewart Weddings

Get'n All Country

2011-06-09T15:49:00.005-04:00

Who am I to kid that we are going to have a "small" party for my first and only son's upcoming Baptism? I thought I would just throw a BBQ together and have a small handful of guests over to celebrate.

Let's be real - we all know my type A event planner personality isn't settled with this! Did I mention I will be traveling for business a week before this shin dig?!

So here goes, we will welcome 50 guests to kick off their heels & celebrate Carson joining the Catholic Church with a down home country BBQ - Bring on the mason jars!

Here is what the Carson's Fairy Godmother, JessCreates and I came up with - Inspiration

Y'all come back now!

Images via SMP

Tim & Anabeth Get Hitched

2010-10-28T19:43:00.008-04:00

Tim & Anabeth get hitched at Grandale!

Hop on over to Sublime Design for a sneak peak at our September wedding. We can't wait to share a full album with you and update All Buttoned-Up with our latest work!

Bridal pic via Kelly Cox, detail pics via Sublime Deisgn

Inspiration for Upcoming Feb. Wedding

2010-09-09T19:16:00.002-04:00

Kitchen Goodies

2010-08-19T16:50:00.008-04:00

While every registry should be unique to each couple. Here are a couple staple items we think are worth including on every one's list:

Corningware® can go from the freezer or refrigerator to oven or microwave right to the table. Its material is resistant to chipping and cracking, while the non-porous surface does not absorb food odors, flavors or stains. They are easy clean-up and dishwasher safe, even the baked on goods wash right off leaving you with a clean white dish to last a lifetime! This set from Bed Bath & Beyond includes glass covers for baking and covers for storing leftovers.

A good Knife Set can make cooking smoother and more enjoyable. When you are shopping for a good knife set, you want to consider sharpness and finely ground surface, cutting edge retention, craftsmanship, comfortable and safety, balance, material and corrosion resistance and easy wash. If you want to go for the splurge, reviewers recommend Shun classic 8-piece knife set available at Amazon for $500. Looking for something a little more budget friendly consider a set from Chicago Cutlery available on Amazon for $60.

A Cookware set is a must for any kitchen. We settled with two picks for those of you who prefer stainless steel and for those non-stick lovers. Three things to consider when purchasing stainless steel: 1. Buy stainless steel cookware that has either an aluminum or copper core…or both! Both of these metals ensure that foods cook evenly without those annoying hot spots. 2. Ensure the aluminum or copper runs up the sides of the pans. A lot of stainless steel cookware on the market today only includes a layer of aluminum or copper in the base of the pot or pan which is good, but it’s even better is when the aluminum/copper runs up the sides of the pan. 3. Make sure the stainless steel is 18/10. The 18 refers to the percentage of chromium and the 10 refers to the percentage of nickel. Both of these metals ensure that it does not rust or scratch easily and that it maintains strength and durability. The higher the number, the better the metal.

Reviewers recommend Cuisinart Multiclad Pro-Stainless Steel from Amazon for $244 or Kitchenaid Gourmet Essentials 12-Piece Nonstick Hard-Anodized Cookware set for $165 from Amazon shown below.

Images via Bed Bath & Beyond, Amazon, Amazon, Amazon

Registry Woes

2010-08-18T16:30:00.014-04:00

Gifts are supposed to be the fun part, so why do we feel so overwhelmed with registering? Here are some helpful hints and suggestions to help get you through this process and settled in with some great gifts!

Register where you can get something in return for yourself or someone else: Macy's Registry Star Rewards gives you 10% back on self purchases and 5% rewards on gifts purchased from your registry. This starts to add up quickly! WeddingChannel.com will make a donation whenever anyone uses weddingchannel.com to purchase a gift from your registry. The final donation is based on a percentage (up to 3%) of how many purchased registry items through WeddingChannel.com. Many retail partners participate with WeddingChannel including Crate and Barrel, Bloomingdales, Target, Amazon.com and Barney's among others. Most stores offer a completion program where you can come in after your big day and buy items left on your registry at a certain percentage. While this is great, there are usually better coupons and sales out there than the discount offered by the completion program.
Some think that registering is to forward and they don't want their guests to feel obligated to purchase a gift. However, most guests prefer to have a registry to base a decision from. It makes the purchasing process easier and more personal. It is helpful for guests to have a variety of price ranges on gifts so that they have options in a price range that they are comfortable with.
If you register at multiple stores pull the lists together on one site like MyRegistry.com or be sure to cross check your registries. It will be helpful in the end as it is easy to lose track of what you have registered for and you don't want to end up with 10 party platters and no serving utensils!
As the wedding date draws near and you pass gift milestones like the shower, check on your registry inventory and make sure you still have options for your guests. If you don't want to peek at what you are getting ask a friend or relative to keep an eye on it for you. If it is low you may want to consider adding more items or gift card options.
Register for items that you want and need. Just because Aunt Agnes keeps asking which china pattern you are choosing doesn't mean you have to order china. If china isn't practical for you and your partner to be, don't register for it. Maybe you have lived together and really don't need new towels and dishes, then registering for your honeymoon or favorite charity may make more sense for you.
Check with close friends who recently wed and see what they like/dislike about some of the things they registered for. This may help you when it comes to choosing big items that you will use frequently like cookware sets and luggage. Ultimately, the decision belongs to you and your significant other but it will be helpful to hear reviews from someone you know!

Need to purchase a gift? See below for some chic gift wrapping inspiration and check back this week for great gifts to give or register for!

Images via Real Simple, Style Me Pretty, sublime design, Bahraini Diva, itwasMadewithLuv

Farm-To-Table Wedding

2010-04-09T11:29:00.004-04:00

I just received my September bride's look book for her Farm-To-Table wedding. I can't wait to open this baby up and see how close it resembles my image boards!

Spring Has Sprung

2010-04-02T17:41:00.004-04:00

This beautiful weather is forcing us outside and on to our yard projects and I am not complaining!

Our front entryway was in need of some TLC. I always wanted to have a red front door, but it really doesn't go with our house. So, with the black door I decided on red potted plants to accent.

I love this country-french style chair now doubling as a plant holder that I found at Home Goods. The red pots are actually plastic! They look ceramic and I was quite surprised when went to lift them off the shelf. I had to drill holes in the bottom so the water could drain. We decided on red and white annuals for the flower colors.

This weekend we are moving on to some new bushes and mulch on the sides of the porch. I am still searching for the perfect door mat and wreath with red accents. Down the road we plan to get rid of the brass light fixtures and replace with black lantern style lighting.

Happy Spring!

Easter Goodies!

2010-04-02T17:32:00.004-04:00

The Easter Bunny's preparations are under way at the Papaj house. We are non-traditional with no candy. On this year's list are a bag with all your pool essentials for Kat, garden tools and sidewalk chalk for Noey and some new ties and shirts for Jason! Hope they aren't peaking :)

Inside the eggs we hid bunny erasers, jewelry, leis, hair barrettes and of course clues to find their Easter baskets!

I can't wait for all the Easter fun on Sunday!

My Chair Has Arrived

2010-04-02T00:49:00.004-04:00

No more kitchen table chair - the new office chair has been found! I searched high and low and waited until I found the perfect fit. It wasn't originally what I had in mind, but it really stuck out to me.

I like that it has arms. Most of the chairs I picked out did not. The legs also match my other office furniture nicely. The sage colored trim provides a nice contrast against my white desk and the blue fabric matches my walls perfectly!

Still left to buy is my sideboard, rug and a few odds and ends like a small table for the printer and some fun desktop accessories!

Pics of the whole office coming soon...

Easy Beautiful Photo Wall

2010-03-31T21:24:00.009-04:00

Since we bought the house I had my mind set on making a photo wall in our basement stairwell. So, 15 pictures and $100 later in frames from Home Goods and we have our wall! You can have one too and it is so easy.

Materials: Photos, Frames, Craft Paper, Pencil, Scissors, Painter's Tape and Nails

Step 1 - Pick out your pictures and frames. I decided on the same style of frames - a variety of vintage metallic. I like the symmetry of all the same style frames.

Step 2 - With craft paper, trace the outline of each frame and cut it out

Step 3 - Mark the craft paper where the picture hangers are

Step 4 - Tape the craft paper on the wall with painters tape. This allows you to arrange the photos how you want them before putting nail holes in the wall

Step Five - Hammer the nail in where your marked the picture hangers on the craft paper

Step Six -Remove the craft paper and replace with your frames and you have your photo wall!

Vendor Love Week: Pretty Little Fings

2010-03-30T21:56:00.002-04:00

Pang is an amazing artist and I love her photography. Pang is so fun to work with and she captures that playful spirit in her work.

She did photos for my website and will be doing a photo shoot of my amazing pup in a few weeks!

I love the school-boy/girl style captured in Pang's rustic engagement shoot.

She also makes these adorable custom plush creatures. Check out her esty shop and blog!

Check back for postings my goldendoodle's photo shoot in a few weeks!

Vendor Love Week: First Sight Pictures Wedding

2010-03-28T20:15:00.003-04:00

My best friend used First Sight Pictures for her September wedding in Buffalo & I am in love!

View Kristen & Mike's trailer

They do an amazing job capturing the intimate details through an artist's eye. You truely re-live all the day's emmotion every time you watch your videos.

I can't wait for an opportunity to work with Frist Sight Pictures!

Vendor Love Week: Continued

2010-03-28T20:10:00.003-04:00

My apologies for slacking on Vendor Love week. Last week I spent my days on the west coast for a business trip. Look for vendor love to continue this week :)

Vendor Love Week: Jess Creates

2010-03-19T23:43:00.002-04:00

Jess Creates is an award-winning intimate graphic design and stationery boutique specializing in modern and simple designs for life's most precious events. Owner, Jessica Radlich is extremely talented and unique. She always provides her clients with lots of beautiful designs to choose from, and she is a joy to work with. Jessica provided excellent advice for All Buttoned-Up website design and logo branding. You really get the total package when working with Jess, whether it is marketing or etiquette advice - she really provides a wide range of expertise that complements her talented eye for design.

Vendor Love Week: Gray Slate Studio

2010-03-17T22:53:00.002-04:00

Gray Slate Studio photographer Nhien is a fantastic photojournalist. She does an amazing job capturing the smallest details. Her work truly portrays the whole spirit of your special day. Nhien's albums are a great conversational piece. Each page captures every emotion of the day telling a story without any words. She is a pleasure to work with - the hardest part will be picking your favorite pictures for the album because they will all be that unique and fabulous!

Vendor Love Week: Angel Cakes & Cupcake Heaven

2010-03-16T23:39:00.004-04:00

MMMM! Just as the name says these sweet treats are straight from heaven - elegant and delicious. Angel Cakes & Cupcake Heaven is owned by Kim Newman and is located in Haymarket, VA. It was a no-brainer to choose Kim to do my own wedding cake. It was a huge hit with all of our guests...there was hardly a crumb to be found!

As tradition goes, we froze the top tier and thawed it out on our one year anniversary. The cake tasted just as good as it did on our Wedding Day!

Vendor Love Week: By Invitation Only

2010-03-15T23:52:00.003-04:00

I have two favorite graphic designers - perfect for all your stationery needs, but each deserving of their own separate posts :)

By Invitation Only specializes in trendy, elegant invitations and more at an affordable price. Owner, Laura Farnham, is based in Niagra Falls New York, but works with clients nationwide. Laura loves custom work, so if you can't find what you have in mind on her site, be sure to email her with your special requests - laura@byinviteonly.net.

I love the black and yellow combo in this invite! Check out more invites, save the dates, announcements and more on By Invitation Only's Facebook page!

Vendor Love Week

2010-03-15T23:44:00.002-04:00

It is Vendor Love week at All Buttoned-Up. Check back everyday for an inspiring vendor that will knock your socks off! Do you have a favorite florist, photographer, caterer or any event professional? If so - please share!

Finished Hutch

2010-03-11T12:07:00.002-05:00

I finished my hutch and loaded it with all my event planning resources. It is a perfect fit with my desk. A few more pieces and my office is complete! I plan to finish a buffet with the same weathered look as the desk and hutch. I am in search for the perfect upholstered chair and rug as well.

My Weekend Project

2010-03-07T21:34:00.006-05:00

I purchased this antique hutch off Craigslist for $120. It was made in Gettysburg, PA in 1931. I plan to finish it with the weathered crackle to match my desk. I will use it in my office to hold my books and other office supplies. Here is a before photo and two midway photos showing the base color with the weathered crackle.

Presenting My White Desk

2010-03-02T20:58:00.009-05:00

My desk has finally found its place in our new home. It is near finished - I just need to find the perfect hardware for the drawer pulls. I can't wait to plan my next event behind this beauty!

Desk Remodel

2010-02-10T23:01:00.007-05:00

My goal was to antique this desk with a white crackle effect revealing the gray base coat.

Supplies: interior satin base coat in desired color, interior flat wall paint in desired color, weathered crackle glaze, nylon paintbrush, foam brush, and clear protector.

The desk had a lacquer finish that I had to sand off to get down to the raw wood. I used an electric hand sander and some sandpaper to remove the finish. It took about 3 hours.

Next I painted the desk with the grey satin base coat.

After allowing the base coat to dry overnight I applied the crackle glaze evenly.

Allow to dry 2-4 hours and then I applied the antique white interior top coat. Within minutes the paint will start to crack and the base coat will show through.

*Tip - Once the crackle starts to work (almost immediately) do not continue to paint the top coat in the same area. This will cause the top coat to bubble or peel away more than desired. Basically, once you do two brush strokes with the top coat leave it and move on.

Now, I am in search of the perfect hardware. The original desk had brass hardware so I want to replace with a rustic silver. As soon as I unpack my desk I will post the finished photos!

My Desk!

2010-02-10T22:50:00.003-05:00

I found this $100 beauty on Craigslist. It is a work in progress and I am almost finished. All I need is the perfect hardware to complete the look. As soon as we have nice weather I will head over to my parents house to pick it up so I can move it in my new office.

I think it's a pretty close resemblance to what I was looking for!

The snow has been good to me!

2010-02-10T22:08:00.007-05:00

Country Roads Take Me Home - Snowy mountain highway leading us to Snowshoe!

While most people in the DC region are cursing the 3 plus foot of snow - it could not have come at a better time for me. It graced us with great powder for our annual ski trip, it is forcing us to unpack and organize our new home and now I can finally "dig out" from my to-do list and update my blog.

So bring it on Monday and your forecast for yet another Alberta clipper!

We're Live!!!

2010-01-19T21:02:00.003-05:00

Shout it from the rooftop....

All Buttoned-Up went live today and here is the face behind the work!

I could not have done it without my wonderful graphic designer with whom I have developed an amazing friendship with and know that we will have a future of joint business opportunities together. Sublime Design is the real face behind the work!

Cupcakes!

2009-12-20T21:45:00.002-05:00

circus4
Originally uploaded by jesscreates

Cupcakes were decorated with these cute toppers from bndesigns. One side announced "It's A Boy!", and the other side featured a favorite circus animal. Cupcakes made by yours truly were iced in the yellow and red color scheme.

PS - huge thank you to my graphic designer for doubling as a photographer and providing these great shots for my website which is launching this month - stay tuned!

Popcorn, Peanuts & Cracker Jacks

2009-12-20T21:35:00.002-05:00

circus5
Originally uploaded by jesscreates

Left (Guest Book) -
I love non-traditional guest books. Norajane made this cute keepsake pillow for Mom and baby to cherish. One side has a circus animal design and the other is plain blue. Guests were asked to sign with a fabric marker purchased from Michael's. Sign by bndesigns. Looking closely in the right hand corner, you can see the cardboard popcorn boxes filled with yellow and white carnations. It really looked like boxes filled with popcorn. I wish I had a better shot of these because they were a big hit!

Right (Desert/Candy Bar) -
Popcorn, Peanuts & Cracker Jacks! Guests filled popcorn boxes with sweet treats to take home. Homemade candy apples and sweet lion cookies done by yours truly.

Adorable Packaging

2009-12-20T21:24:00.001-05:00

circus6
Originally uploaded by jesscreates

These Popcorn boxes on the left were filled with prizes for the game winners. The boxes were left open with yellow tissue paper popping out of the top to look like popcorn.

Sticking to budget without sacrificing design

2009-12-20T21:19:00.001-05:00

circus2
Originally uploaded by jesscreates

I picked up these cute popcorn tubs in the dollar aisle! I was able to use them for three purposes: flower vase, silverware holder and a container for the candy bar/desert table.

A Sugary Sweet Circus Concoction

2009-12-20T21:09:00.001-05:00

circus1
Originally uploaded by jesscreates

What screams circus more than cotton candy? Sweet goodies double as centerpiece. Vases stuffed with cotton candy and adorned with whimsical Whirly Pops.

Step Right Up...

2009-12-20T20:58:00.002-05:00

circus3
Originally uploaded by jesscreates

Get your ticket!

Entry table to the Main Event. Clowns purchased on EBay. Vase in background is filled with peanuts holding a "TICKETS" sign. Tickets designed by bndesigns.

The Main Event

2009-12-20T20:51:00.003-05:00

circus7
Originally uploaded by jesscreates

Welcome to the Main Event!

All Buttoned-Up hosted a circus themed baby shower for a special guest of honor. Invitations, tickets (shown above), signs, favor tags and cupcake favors were made by bndesigns

Etsy Love

2009-12-19T00:49:00.003-05:00

We're nestled in for a really snowy DC weekend. Hopefully I will get things finalized with AllButtoned-Up and get ahead on packing our house for the big move!

My good friend just opened up her Etsy Shop. Be sure to check out her art @ http://www.etsy.com/shop/blissfulbeauty

It Must Be the Mirror

2009-12-06T21:08:00.003-05:00

It's official - we received a contract on our home. It must be the mirror! Fingers crossed all goes smoothly over the next 30 days and I will be one step closer to my rustic white desk. Couldn't you see me planning the perfect event behind a beauty like this?

Mirror Mirror On the Wall, You're the Fairest of Them All

2009-12-05T22:54:00.011-05:00

First, Let me apologize for slacking on my blog!! Things have been pretty busy, both personally and professionally. In the matter of a few short weeks, we have listed our home for sale, planned the "Main Event Of The Year" baby shower for my expecting sister-in-law, celebrated the Holidays with friends and family and to top it all off are finalizing my website launch!

I promise to not be so neglectful once we settle in our new home and I finally have my long dreamed of personal office space with a little white rustic desk! My husband may disagree, but I plan on it being one of my first new furniture purchases. It may be my cheapest - I am talking a restored goodwill piece here. I will know it when I see it!

I can't wait to find our new home and have my new office, but I know I will miss our first place that we lived together as a dating couple and a married couple, having a small home to clean, and most of all my newly remodeled bathroom with the mirror I designed.

This could be my next entrepreneurship - I can just see my graphic designer laughing in vain and thinking let's get All Buttoned-Up off the ground and then talk to me in 2 - maybe 5 years ha! Seriously though, budget of $10 made this beauty! I am lucky enough to be in a family of contractors and found/"borrowed" :) the mirror and wood from my dad's shop. But, even if you purchased it you are only talking small costs for the mirror and wood. I have seen similar mirrors selling at high-end stores for $300+. It was the cheapest and easiest part of our bathroom renovation and the piece that gets the most comments!

Materials: Mirror, Wood, Nails, Glue (strong mirror glue to hold to the wall), paint, chain or other "damage" materials

Step One - Cut mirror and glue to the wall

Step Two - Make the wooden frame. Simply nail the pieces of wood together to border the mirror like a picture frame. This doesn't have to be neat - if the nails show it will complete the look in the end.

Step Three - Destruction. Using whatever you can think of ruff this baby up! I took a chain and beat the wood over and over and hammered it.

Step Four - Paint! I used two colors. First, I painted green for the base color real thin and spotty not covering in some parts. Before the green dried, I started painting brown on top smearing the green some, letting it show through in some parts and covering it in others. After it dried, I took sandpaper to parts of it for an extra weathered look.

Step Five - Tack the frame on the mirror & enjoy!

Happy Anniversary!

2009-11-11T16:00:00.005-05:00

Jason & I celebrated our two year anniversary yesterday! I am in love with the Stargazer Lilies bouquet on my desk - they smell soooo good! My colleague said he can smell them down the hall. I wish my blog had a scratch and sniff button to share the best part with you!

Popcorn, Peanuts, Cracker Jack's

2009-11-06T14:57:00.005-05:00

I have circus on the brain - Compiling my laundry list of circus ideas for my client's baby shower. Daydream a bit and take yourself back to the circus. I would love to hear what your circus can't live without!

These Boots Were Made For Walking

2009-11-06T13:30:00.004-05:00

Happy Friday!

It's going to be a beautiful fall weekend in DC & best of all my college roommate and her husband are visiting! What better reason to test out my new fall boots in the city!

Top 5 things I love about fall:

College football - very partial to WVU :)

My wedding anniversary

Changing of the leaves

The crisp air

Fall wardrobe

Speaking of wardrobe - check out my latest purchase! I am so excited about these boots. I searched and searched for the perfect brown boot with a small heel and all sources kept leading me to these new Steve's. In love!

Circus Circus

2009-11-04T14:55:00.005-05:00

Here is a sneak peek at my inspiration board that I created @ StyleMePretty.com for a circus themed Baby Shower I am planning in December. I found the great circus invites and paper goods below on Etsy by bndesigns.

Credits: Caplan Miller Events, Kristin Vining Photography (2), Calluna Events, Recherche Photography, Calluna Events, LLC

Grand Debut

2009-11-04T14:06:00.005-05:00

Hello! I'm Natalie, owner of All Buttoned-Up Event Planning & Design Boutique located in Washington, DC. I'm a PR professional by day and manage All Buttoned-Up on the side. I have over 5 years event planning experience and after falling head-over-heels planning my dream wedding, I decided to open All Buttoned-Up.

All Buttoned-Up website, http://www.allbuttoned-up.com/, will go live in December thanks to my wonderful designer, Jess with Sublime Design. Check out her work @ http://sublimedesign.wordpress.com/

In the meantime, if you have an event and need a planner - give me a shout! All Buttoned-Up will offer a special discount for our first "official" customers!