Color Trend: Lavender & Lilac

My husband and I just purchased this Martha Stewart Bloomery rug* in lilac for our new home, and at first I was quite concerned that I was taking a too-bold step for our main living area. Thankfully, Decor 8 recently featured a few pages from talented interior designer Amanda Nisbet's online portfolio and I was happy to see that she is using lovely lavender and lilac accents in her work.

Lilac is such a soothing color and it has actually worked quite well for our color palette. Try adding a touch of this tranquil tone to your own home or office to create a peaceful, yet uplifting, atmosphere.

• Dusty lavender jersey knit top -- Neiman Marcus

• Tumbled trove cuff bracelet -- Anthropologie

• Lilac bordered calling card by Anna Griffin -- FineStationery.com

• Exquisite french country chair in lavender -- Neiman Marcus

• Leaf patterned note card by Vera Wang -- FineStationery.com

• Lavender scroll accent pillow -- Bedroom-Furniture.com

* Martha Stewart Bloomery Rug available at Macys.com.

Growing Trend: The Baby Bump

While women of the past once hid any signs of pregnancy with concealing clothing like empire waisted tops and free-flowing gowns, today's mommas are happy to show-off their expanding waistlines. From curve-hugging dresses and tops to designer maternity lines, baby bumps are finally finding the attention they deserve in the fashion world (which makes sense-- for what could be more beautiful than a growing bundle of joy?).

Like those curve-hugging dress, these invitations from FineStationery.com showcase a momma-to-be's greatest asset (her growing belly of course!)

Bump dress by Stevie Streck

Graceful bump by Doc Milo

Pink bump by Baby idesign

Flag Etiquette for the Fourth

Image via Country Living

I love to see the American flag flying on a beautiful summer day. Especially on the Fourth of July when everywhere you go, the streets are dressed in red, white and blue. But did you know that there is a certain protocol to follow when displaying an American flag? In fact, there are actual laws in effect to protect and honor Old Glory.

Before you set out a flag to show your patriotism this Independence day, be sure to review the flag etiquette rules. For a full list, including the Flag Code, visit USHistory.org.

• A flag should not be flown in inclement weather, unless it is an all-weather flag

• The flag should not be displayed in the dark. One should display a flag from sunrise to sunset unless it will be properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.

• Any time the flag is displayed in a place other than from a pole or staff, it should be hung flat with the blue/star portion (referred to as "the union") at the observers upper left. The same is true when it is hung from a window-- the flag should be positioned so that from the street, the union appears in the upper left hand corner

• When a flag is flown at half-staff, it should first be raised to the very top of the flag pole for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position

• A flag should never be draped across the back of things like boats, nor should it be used as a table cloth

• Flag pins should be worn on the left lapel near the heart

• A flag should never be allowed to touch what lies beneath it (whether the ground, water or an object

Sail Away With Me...

One of my husband's patients invited us to go sailing with him. While I've never been sailing before, I can't help but think a sailing party would be a fabulous affair for the summer. While I dream about our upcoming adventure on the sea, I'll leave you with this sunny party board to inspire your own sailing soiree.

• Learn how to make this easy ribbon flag garland and use it to decorate your table and the boat -- Martha Stewart

• A sleeveless top paired with stylish capris makes for chic, yet practical sailing attire -- Ann Taylor

• If you're planning a small gathering, invite guest using note cards like this yellow floral card from Smudge Ink. For a larger party, consider this anchor invitation by Checkerboard -- FineStationery.com

• Consider offering your guests sailing lessons from real experts -- Schooner Woodwind

• Serve lite fare like this watermelon and arugula salad -- Epicurious.com

• For favors, pass out these salt-water taffy filled bags tied with grosgrain ribbon -- Martha Stewart

• Decorate your space with fresh flowers like this bright bunch -- Teleflora

Wishing you smooth sailing!

Quick Tip!

Jennifer over at the House Beautiful blog The Peak of Chic posted a short interview with Charleston event planner Mitchell Crosby that contains great tips for entertaining with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. Take a moment to visit Jennifer's lovely blog and soak up Mr. Crosby's sensational advice.

Image via The Peak of Chic

City Sleek Baby Shower

If there's one rule to stand by when hosting a baby shower, it is to stay true to the style of the mother-to-be. If she leads a glamorous lifestyle, the shower you host should reflect her elegance. Keep things chic with a color palette of timeless black and white and be sure to fill the event space with sleek and sophisticated details.

• Black wrap maternity top and pencil skirt -- Isabella Oliver

• Silver metallic silhouette invitation by Bubbles & Bows -- FineStationery.com

• Fill this simple clear crystal vase with a bouquet of delicate ivory roses -- Ralph Lauren

• This black baby bag from kate spade is sleek, stylish and made of ultra-practical nylon -- kate spade

• A black topped Armani bottle helps to keep even feeding time fashionable -- Swoon Shop

• Elegance abounds with this classy black and ivory table setting -- The Knot

• A silver cake stand to go right along with baby's silver spoon -- The Knot

• Decorate with silver accents like these beautiful candlesticks -- Ralph Lauren

A New Look for Cupcakes

If you're looking for little details that will make a big impact at your child's next birthday party, try cupcake toppers. Today's toppers come in all shapes and sizes. From personalized paper-cutouts to colorful pinwheels, these fun embellishments are sure to take your party to the, well..."top.".

Floral toppers by Millalove

Personalized toppers by 7 cupcakes

Pinwheel toppers by Crossroads Cottage

Friday Find

I have been super busy shopping for items for our new home and along the way I've discovered some really great products that I just have to share with you all. Today's "Friday Find" is a collection of luxurious handbags from Etsy seller FIAZCO.

Each of the designer's handmade clutches are crafted from high quality fabrics and fine Dupioni silks. While there are multiple fabric options to choose from, you may also place custom orders and provide your own fabric if you like. Perfect as a bridesmaid gift or just as a fashionable tote to take to your next event, these clutches are sure to make a stylish statement wherever they may go.

Dahlia collection

Jenny Collection

A Vineyard Wedding

Vineyards offer the perfect backdrop for a lush summer wedding. The ripened amethyst grapes and the sage green vine offer a ready-made color palette straight from nature that is sure to be pleasing to the eye.

• Add yellow sunflowers to bouquets for a pop of color and use wooden wine barrels as decor -- The Knot

• Tie woven fans to the backs of the ceremony chairs with an elegant sage ribbon -- The Knot

• Bridesmaids will look elegant at any time of day in this Versace halter dress -- Saks Fifth Avenue

• Tie sprigs of lavender into nosegay bouquets and use as place card holders -- Martha Stewart

• This invitation by Checkerboard matches the theme perfectly -- FineStationery.com

• Vineyards offer unique scenery for guests and great photo opportunities for the bride and groom -- Martha Stewart

• Adorn your wedding cake with sugared grapes to go along with the vineyard theme -- Red-Velvets.com

Feeling Lovely

Image by Andy Small

The thing I love the most about the blogging community is that it is overflowing with incredibly talented and creative people. I am consistently amazed by the wonderful party ideas, special product finds and inspiration boards I find on a daily basis.

In fact, finding new blogs to read is quite a thrill for me, so I was delighted when Lexi from Love. Obsess. Inspire. nominated The Finer Things for the One Lovely Blog Award (not only because I felt incredibly honored to be nominated, but also because it gave me the chance to get acquainted with Lexi’s lovely blog as well as an opportunity to pass along a few of my new faves to you all). So thank you, Lexi!

Now on to my own nominations. I’ll keep it short and sweet for you:

Elizabeth Anne Designs

Love. Obsess. Inspire.

Celebrations at Home

Fete Fanatic

My Sweet Savannah

Jackaroo Love

Creative Parties & Showers

Enjoy!

P.S. The artwork featured on today's post is from talented photographer Andy Small, winner of the International Garden Photographer of the Year competition. Be sure to check out his collection here. I'm looking to purchase a few of his pieces for my new home!

Patriotic Stripes

Celebrate Independence Day in style with patriotic stripes in shades of red, white and blue.

• Vertical multi-stripe invitation by Noteworthy Collection -- FineStationery.com

• Wide red stripe headband -- Tano Jewelry

• All-American striped dress -- Shop Bop

• Red and blue striped polo -- Ralph Lauren

• Bold red stripe paper plates -- FineStationery.com

• Red striped cupcake liners -- Etsy seller Layer Cake Shop

• Striped cushions and beach towel -- Pottery Barn

• Multi-stripe men's belt -- Ralph Lauren

Momma Mondays: Safe & Stylish

It wasn't long ago that I started making a list of items I needed to purchase before my little boy was set to arrive. I poured over magazine articles and consumer reports to learn which products, from car seats and swings to strollers and cribs, would prove to be safest for my little guy. Unfortunately, the best baby products on the market are often not the most stylish. I found this to be especially true when it comes to car seats.

Thankfully, stores like 2 Little Monkeys offer fabulous replacement covers to make those safe and smart products slightly more spiffy. Here is just a small sample of the store’s stylish designs:

Tangerine dot with ruffled sunshade
(also comes in elegant black/white)

Black and white damask

Pink mocha paisley

Reader Request: Country Fair Wedding

One of our fabulous readers, Wendy, contacted us to request some help gathering ideas for a casual, country fair styled wedding:

I am planning a 'Country Fair' themed wedding and want to make sure we stay on the side of fun casual and have some touch of coordinated ease. I was thinking bright colors, a photo booth instead of a guest book and games -- think bean bag toss, potato sack races and a cake walk -- in addition to a dance floor and a moon bounce.

My fiance hates traditional weddings, so we're looking to create an event where our friends and family can get to know each other and have a good time. I'd LOVE to see your ideas?

Thank you,
Wendy

Wendy, I think this is such a fun wedding theme idea, especially for a laid-back and fun-loving couple.

• This blue border on this invitation by Prentiss Douthit is reminiscent of picnic blanket plaid but the pretty simplicity of the card makes it a suitable wedding invitation -- FineStationery.com

• A simple cotton dress like this halter frock would be perfect attire for the bride-to-be -- Anthropologie

• Serve fun country fair styled food like popsicles, cotton candy and popcorn -- Country Living magazine and BounceAroundLi

• Set up fair games for your guests to play during the reception like balloon darts, potato sack races, skeeball and milk bottle knockdown -- NJPicnics

• Use pennant garland and old-fashioned string lights to decorate -- Martha Stewart

• Have plenty of blue ribbons on hand to give out to the fair game winners -- Jamie Wilkes Trophies

• Instead of traditional wedding cake, serve cherry pie or, my favorite fair food, funnel cake -- Epicurious

• Set up picnic tables covered in gingham tablecloths for the reception dinner -- PartyRentalLTD

• For country fair styled ceremony seating, cover hay bales with thick white canvas and accentuate with wildflowers -- Martha Stewart

• For the bride's bouquet, consider hydrangeas or another blossom bunch straight from the garden -- The Knot

Dangling Details

One of the best ways you can set the scene for your next party is to use what I like to call "dangling details." These decor items add points of interest to the area that spans between your ceiling and right around eye-level, and are especially helpful for adding a bit of whimsy above dining tables and buffets.

A few of the most popular dangling details include paper lanterns, big balloons, pennant banners and my own personal favorite Martha Stewart's tissue paper pom-poms. And here's a new one to add to the list. While out shopping earlier in the week I spotted these fabulous floating flowers at Pottery Barn Kids. Don't you think they would make a really charming addition to a bridal shower or girl's birthday party?

Lucy hanging bouquets by Pottery Barn Kids

Pennant banner by 42nd and Orange

Classic white balloons via snippet & ink

Camellia pom pom kit by Martha Stewart

Cards That Will Move You

After months and months of preparation, we are finally ready to move into our new home. If you have ever been through the process of building a new house, you know that the move-in date often gets pushed back at least once. While our move-in date has been pushed back more than several times, it looks like our big day is finally here and I can actually move forward with sending out our moving announcements.

These four announcements are a few of my favorites because each one shares the good news in a unique way:

• Change of "a dress" and no place like home cards by Stevie Streck

• "We've Migrated" by kate spade

• Moving box announcement by Sarah LeClere

**All moving announcements available from FineStationery.com

Stationer Spotlight: Karen Adams

From simple and sophisticated to bold and colorful, Karen Adams' line of social stationery covers a vast range of styles. Her original illustrations and whimsical embellishments make her a standout stationer and I'm very pleased to share a few of her designs with you today. For more Karen Adams designs, be sure to stop by FineStationery.com.

Simple & Sophisticated:



Bold & Colorful:



Item links

Simple & Sophisticated:

• Limeade square invitation
  

• Floral diecut invitation
  

• Simple starfish invitation
  

• Green floral invitation

Bold & Colorful:

• Sapphire dancing invitation

• Bright pink invitation with orange ribbon
  

• Circus big-top invitation
  

A "Curious" Birthday

A new trend in children's parties is to plan an event around a literary series or character. Curious George has always been a favorite of mine because the stories in which he stars are fairly gender neutral and downright fabulous when it comes to transcending time. Younger children familiar with the series are sure to go bananas for this Curious George themed party.

• Monkey party invitation by Paper So Pretty -- FineStationery.com

• Banana balloons for decor -- Balloon Maniacs

• Place one of these Curious George board books at each place setting as an adorable party favor for each guest -- Amazon

• Serve banana splits for dessert or even the main dish -- Turkey Hill Ice Cream

• This banana favored cake has delicious chocolate icing and is in the shape of a monkey head -- Martha Stewart

• Place one of these Curious George plush animals in a place with high visability (near the cake would be great!) -- TisInc99.com

• Finally, be sure to have one of these tall yellow hats on hand for the guest of honor to wear -- Curious George Awestores

Attention Budget Brides:

Bargain shopping brides: mark your calendars! Filene’s Basement has scheduled several Running of the Brides events for this summer in places like Chicago, Washington, D.C. and Boston. If you haven’t heard of The Running of the Brides events, let me fill you in on what all the fuss is about.

Filene’s Basement receives a whole stock of wedding gowns from top designers and then sells them during these one-day events for a fraction of the regular retail price. Brides-to-be from all over the region attend with their entourages, often lining the storefront hours before the event is set to begin. Then when the doors open, much like the running of the bulls (hence the name), the brides spring forward to find their dream gowns.

I can tell you from experience that things are pretty chaotic and competitive, and I would wager that it will only be more wild this year with the state of our economy.

The only downside is that the gowns are not returnable—but such is the case with most bridal boutiques. My friend and I found a great Demetrios gown at the sale we attended (we showed up an hour after the event started and found things to be much more relaxed than what they show on TV) and I bought it to be on the safe side. I “liked” it and I knew it wouldn’t be available after the day of the sale. A month later I realized that I was not a “princess bride” and would have much rather purchased a simple slipdress. Thus, I became a 2-dress bride and that beautiful Demetrios gown still sits in my closet, never having known the greatness of its very own big day.

That being said, many brides do find their dream dress at the Filene’s sale. If you live nearby one of the sale locations, I encourage you to attend. It may be a sea of dresses to swim through, but if successful in your search, you’ll get your gown at a great sale price.

For more information about Running of the Brides events, be sure to visit the Filene’s Basement Web site.

Me in my dream dress
Photos by Michael Miller Photography

How to Host a Crab Feast

If you've watched the movie Wedding Crashers you may be familiar with the phrase "crabcakes and football, that's what Maryland does!" As a legit Maryland gal, born and raised on the Chesapeake Bay, I can tell you that it's not far from the truth. Crab feasts are a summer staple here on the eastern shore. Whether you set a feast up at a local crab shack or simply host one in your own backyard, this laid-back seafood spread is perfect for a casual summer gathering (especially if you live by the sea).

Here are a few tips to help you host an authentic crab feast:

• Old Bay seasoning is a must. It is not only the perfect spice for the seafood itself; it also goes great with corn on the cob -- Old Bay
  

• Speaking of corn on the cob, it's a great side dish for a meal in which you'll already be getting your hands dirty -- Country Living
  

• Consider using butcher's paper or newspaper as your table cloth for easy clean up.
  

• Each place setting should include a mallet, a seafood fork, a butter knife, a small cup of melted butter (for dipping) and a plate of lemon wedges (for added seasoning). You may also want to line the center of the table with a few rolls of paper towels.
  

• Consider packaging your other side dishes in individual serving sized containers with lids for eating outdoors with ease -- Country Living
  

• These personalized, dishwasher safe plastic tumblers would be a great take-home keepsake for guests -- FineStationery.com

• Galvanized buckets are perfect for keeping bottled beverages ice-cold -- Pottery Barn

• Before you start, be sure watch this video on how to pick a blue crab -- OldBay.com

• Entice guests to your feast with this yellow crab invitation by Inviting Company or this crab cutout invitation by Sarah LeClere -- FineStationery.com

Steamed crabs image from St. Michaels Crab House

Trend Watch: Grosgrain Ribbon

While reading through the latest edition of House Beautiful magazine, I came across a feature on grosgrain ribbon. Personally, I've always found this preppy ribbon to be a chic accessory and often take a single strand and loop it into a simple headband for summer. But it seems this classic embellishment is suddenly surging in mass appeal and can now be found on everything from table linens and shower curtains to note cards and necklaces.

Above images from House Beautiful magazine article.

Preppy blue grosgrain ribbon on a photo announcement Polka Dot Pear Designs via FineStationery.com


Green grosgrain ribbon adds a touch of class to this simple white place card
Vera Wang via FineStationery.com


Pink grosgrain ribbon accent on orange and pink invitation Checkerboard via FineStationery.com

Fun in the Sun

Jump into summer fun with a pool party full of vibrant colors, ice-cold cocktails and classy swimwear.



Clockwise from top left:

• This pool floaty invitation by Paper So Pretty will entice guests to come out for some fun in the sun -- FineStationery.com

• Chips and dip served in this stylish woven dish are a great poolside snack -- Williams-Sonoma

• You're certain to be a bathing beauty in this classy navy swimsuit -- JCrew

• These clear glass drink dispensers are perfect for keeping beverages ice-cold while maintaining a stylish presentation -- Pottery Barn

• What would a pool party be without cocktails? This margarita mix is not as tangy as the Agave15 mix from last year-- but still quite tasty! -- Williams - Sonoma

• A great invitation for children, this sand pail card by Meri Meri has an actual metal handle -- FineStationery.com

• Perfect for entertaining in the great outdoors, this monogrammed melamine plate by Boatman Geller comes in 15 different color options -- FineStationery.com

Momma Mondays: Stylish Cribs

When I was pregnant with my little one, I felt that the most important task (behind picking the perfect birth announcements of course) was to get my baby's nursery all set up. Choosing a theme and picking out furniture was such fun. I found great inspiration from the furniture lines at PoshTots.com. The company's cribs and children's beds are so unique and whimsical. Here's a little peek at what they have to offer:



Clockwise from top left:

• Dragon fly round crib
• Pink princess coach crib
• Versailles crib
• Cute cottage bed
• Monogrammed espresso crib
• Beach baby aqua crib

All images from PoshTots.com