Giving some love to my BFF, Nicki Clendening today, who was just featured as a design crush on Style Blueprint. Nicki and I first met waiting tables together at an amazing Italian restaurant in Charleston, and have been collaborating ever since. We recently moved into a new office in New York, and had Nicki do the design for it… you can see more below.
photos by Gayle Brooker
I’m so thrilled to introduce three of my favorite “bespoke” companies or makers with you today. Especially if you have an upcoming wedding, these are definitely new and interesting pieces you could have for your big day. First up is Mariee Lace Veils. Fellow Southerners, they import hand crafted lace veils directly from Belgium. They are known for their handcrafted “Princess” lace, a tradition that started with the Royal family using in their clothing and accessories and became collectible heirlooms after being handed down for many generations. The owner of Mariee has been the fourth bride in modern times to wear their family’s veils. I love this heirloom idea! And society brides like Alexis Brinkley have made these veils a part of their wedding day.
They also import handmade hankies of the same lace. This lily of the valley is so amazing.. How fabulous would it be to carry while carrying a bouquet of lily of the valley. This is also something I could see being amazing shower hostess gifts, or also bridesmaids gifts. So perfect especially if not all of the girls are married yet and they are getting something they will be able to incorporate into their future wedding day.
And, they have now started selling prints of the owner’s botanical water color paintings (and look for her new book on these due out in this fall) based on her travels and love for gardening. How perfect it would be to have one to match the wedding day bouquet and have guests sign a matted version (in lieu of a guest book) to then hang at home.
Next, I’d like to introduce Hallie Seibels Portraiture Consultant. Hallie works with you to find one of her many artists that fits your style and personality. And, she manages the process for you from start to finish. All of the costs, deadlines, and communications. I have used her for the portraits of all three of my children, but she also represents many bridal portrait artists. I just absolutely love the idea of a hand painted portrait of a bride.. such a southern tradition, and something that you can look back on to remember that day.
Finally, artist Chloe Strickland . We have had Chloe at a couple of our recent weddings painting scenes like the most recent, first dance, and also the bride and groom at dinner. While I know this isn’t a new thing, but I’m loving the trend of weddings being more personal and meaningful, and this would be a great way to create something unforgettable from your wedding day. I’d rather splurge here and have a lovely piece of artwork for my home for later than on two dresses, or an after party!
Are you planning on checking out some of the Southern Style Now festival, happening here in Charleston November 1st-4th? We are so excited to be a part of this event celebrating design, art, and entertaining and of course the South. For tickets and to learn more go here.
My super chic BFF Nicki Clendening of Beetle designs, and I will be teaching you everything we think makes the “Life of a Party”. We will present our step by step tips for throwing a fabulous fete. Nicki will also be bringing her Beetle shop to the Garden and Gun Fieldshop for a multi day pop up starting that week, so stay tuned for more information on that to follow..
Recognized as one of the nation’s leading tastemakers, Tara Guérard has earned a widespread reputation for her ability to create spectacular settings celebrating life’s most anticipated occasions. As the visionary and founder of Tara Guérard Soirée, she is best known for her distinct style that honors the storied traditions of Southern hospitality paired with a modern aesthetic and flair for the unexpected.
