Happy Things: Bridal Edition

Last week was busy.  Too busy.  Deadlines, appointments, daily activities and lots of editing filled it up.  And to top it off, I got sick mid-week.  Still fighting this bug that has taken my vocal chords hostage.  It hurts to talk and I can’t even sing.  Not that I ever could but now I sound extra horrible.  You know you must sound bad when people tell you should stop because you need to “rest your voice”.

Back in January, I introduced a new segment on my blog entitled Happy Things.  I realized that I skipped February so I’ll be doing double duty this month.  This edition is for brides (or any of you who love pretty things).  Even though my days of being a bride were years ago, I still love looking into all of the unique ideas for wedding details.  There’s always new trends and styles emerging.  Heck, I would get married every year if I could (repeatedly to Matt of course).  Here’s a few of my favorites.

// I adore Anthropologie so when they announced their Bridal line, BLHDN, I was beyond excited.  And they did not dissappoint.  I’m in lurve.  If you haven’t had a chance to check them out, do.

// Tom shoes.  Love what they do and they now have a bridal section.  Really cute stuff.  And like all their other shoes, for EACH pair you buy, they donate a pair to a child in need.  I know there are plenty of brides that wouldn’t want to sport anything but heels on their wedding day, but hear me out.  It’s a great way to give something back on your big day.  Even if you dont want to wear them the whole time, think how great it would be to slip these on at a reception when your feet are killing you.  They are a great idea for bridesmaids too. To learn a little bit more, watch the video below.

// Etsy.  I’ve been obsessed with this site for a year or so and seem to spend hours a week on it.  There are so many great wedding finds but here’s two that I think are totally unique.

• Paloma’s Nest.  Makes me swoon.  Handcrafted and beautiful.  My two favorites in her shop are the custom cufflinks for the groom/groomsmen and the heart shaped ring bearer bowl.
• Bella’s Puzzles.  When we were deciding on a guestbook for our wedding, I wanted something totally original.  We ended up making ours from scratch but if I had seen these puzzles, I would have bought one immediately.  Such a creative idea and they are customizable.

// Lastly, it’s not totally bridal related but nonetheless makes the list.  My latest love is 31 Bits.  Jewelry made from recycled paper by women in Uganda.  The story behind this company is heartwarming and the jewelry is stunning.  Besides checking out the pictures of the jewelry, one of my favorite parts of the site is where you can meet the designers – the women of Northern Uganda.  I can’t tell you how much I love companies that give back.

Speaking of giving, stay tuned for my very first giveaway to a few lucky blog readers!  Details will be posted TOMORROW. ♥