ayesha mayadas

These are different! I like different. I love the way Ayesha Mayadas sets stones, it's so unpretentious.

stencils

I've never been one to shy away from an art project, (see paper poppy pomanders). In the name of style and creativity, I have taken on way more than I can chew many many times. This sets me up for my next suggestion, which you can promptly ignore if you are not also a crafty, blood, sweat, and tears kind of person.
I've been noticing lately that the cool thing to do is decorate your apartment with wall stencils or decals... florals, patterns, anything goes. I thought to myself, that it would also be very cool to decorate your event space with such stencils. Now, I know what you're thinking. "Jacque" over at the Hotel de Grande Marquis is not going to be too pleased with you painting all up on his walls. I know, I know, I have an even better idea. Instead of painting on the walls, you get some blank canvases (the bigger the better), and stencil on those! That way, you can control the background color and the stencil color, AND you can take them home with you and decorate your house after the honeymoon.
It's a bit of work, but, it seems like it would make such a huge impact.
I found some really nice stencils at The Stencil Library. bottom row
Also, don't miss Motif by Henny Donovan. top row

the sanctity of marriage

I don't know if you've discovered This American Life, but it's a wonderfully funny, insightful, and sometimes very poignant radio program about pretty much anything. I love the host, Ira Glass, I think he's a hoot. You can usually find it broadcast on your local public radio station at some point during the weekend. You can also go to their website, and listen to any of the episodes for free via streaming audio.
My point here is that there is a wonderful episode called The Sanctity of Marriage that I heard a while back, and Act 1 really spoke to me. It's a real eye opener for those of you entering into marriage (or, heck, anyone who's in a relationship for that matter). You should check that out. Don't worry, it's not sad or depressing or anything, it's just really interesting.

beautiful plumage

I love these hair plumes from Bonbon Oiseau. They're chic, creative alternatives to tiaras and veils. Wear them under, beside, or with your veil, or completely on their own. Bonbon also sells lovely corsages that will last and last. Thanks for the tip Joy!

honey, i'm home!

This post is especially for friends of the bride, or bridesmaids. I thought these cocktail aprons from The Peppermint Network would make cute (if somewhat tongue-in-cheek) bridal shower gifts for the soon-to-be June Cleaver in your life. Accompany them with a humorous oven mitt, a set of tea towels, or a pair of martini glasses, and she'll be saying "Yes, Dear." in no time.

Inspirations from Luisa Beccaria

Holy delicate femininity! I love this designer! Luisa Beccaria specializes in dresses, and although they aren't technically wedding gowns, I would wear any of these to my nuptuals, heck yeah! She also does couture bridal, if that's more your speed. Check out her website, it's easy to navigate, and a great source of inspiration for both wedding gowns and bridesmaid's dresses (try not to drool on the keyboard). Her line is carried at several shops in the US, the website gives a comprehensive list.

diamonds on the soles of her shoes

I guess it's Shoe Day here at SOSN.
Apparently, Rene Caovilla makes the most gorgeous shoes ever. Huh. Who knew? I know, I know they aren't white satin, and to that I say: "Fiddlesticks!" Wearing these shoes would be like wearing diamond necklaces on your feet. When you've got diamonds, you forget all about satin. For those of you looking for something really $pecial, this is it. Just the idea of the strappy ones (2nd from the right) peeking out from under a Grecian, empire waisted gown, or *gasp* at an Indian wedding, under an elaborate pink and gold sari! So gorgeous. These babies are available at Grossman's Shoes in Greenwich, and on-and-off at Saks Fifth Avenue.