There is no denying that adding burlap to basically anything makes it cool. Come on, you can’t deny that the earthy, soulful look of burlap married to the elegance of candles and flowers doesn’t get you going every time. Well, it gets us going … going right down the aisle, because believe you me, this textured addition has been hitting wedding home runs like you wouldn’t believe. And once again, we at Yoj believe there are a myriad of ways you can incorporate burlap into your nuptials … by pairing it with a hint of mint.

CAKE

Adding a punch of color to that delicious treat is just what the confectioner ordered! Burlap table cloth, mint green icing … BOOM … you’ve got a look that is so completely amazing, your guests will be talking for years after that top tier is devoured. Ahh … its such a brilliant idea, because today cakes have become such a focus of creative inspiration in weddings. Here is an area of wedding style where you can really start having some fun, start getting creative, and start drooling!

TABLESCAPES

To be honest, it really doesn’t matter if you’re having a sit down dinner at your wedding or not, because the tabelscapes that highlight the day are more like works of art than actual functioning vestiges. And do you see what we mean by burlap and candlelight … ah, romance. This material carries this quality that’s quite tricky but really genius. Yes it is indeed heavy, but it is also slightly transparent. Do you know what this means? Of course you do! It means multiple uses in multiple seasons! It is the decorator’s saving grace and go-to accouterment!

BRIDESMAID DRESSES

Well, duh, this is one of our favorite ways to incorporate the mint green of your day! Putting your girls in a color is a great way to make them stand out. After all, you’ve chosen these special ladies to stand up there with you while you say your “I dos,” they deserve to feel a little special wouldn’t you say?! Yes, we did consider wrapping them up in burlap … but the mint is so much less itchy!

Now, let’s show you how Yoj does it. One mint and burlap wedding, coming right up!

Incorporating an Oak tree in the Lowcountry in your decor is a now brainer!

Aren’t you seeing how the green hues make the burlap pop? Or is it vise versa? Quite frankly, when it looks this good, we don’t care!

This mossy addition is such a great tie-in to the heavy nature of the burlap, and a great counterbalance to the softness of the candles. How great is it to use Charlestonian nature in decor? Pretty freakin’ great.

Cake. Enough said.

The birch-style vase is such a stellar piece paired with the burlap, and using the florals to make a color (or minty) statement is a all around winner.

Using darker woods to break up the fabric usage of the burlap is a great idea, and it still provides an awesome canvas to showcase those minty hues.

This is a pretty inspired way of using the fabric if we do say so ourselves.

They look pretty happy … our best guess is because they did their wedding in mint and burlap.

Kidding!

Kind of.

In the wake of our brilliant post on hair styles for your wedding day (hey, sometimes you just have to toot your own horn), we present to you the topper for your do. Some brides love ‘em, some brides hate ‘em … but one thing is certain. The veil is the icing on the cake to your look on your wedding day. Lately, these bad boys are coming back with a vengeance in a thousand different ways!

There is the not-so-veil option for the gal who just can’t get used to the traditional statement a veil makes. Hairpieces make a great alternative, and a gorgeous accessory. On top of that they are a little funkier and quirkier for the bride who just can’t be confined to all that lace.

Or, how about the gorgeous shorter styles. Ultra modern and super chic! I really adore this look, because it is in keeping with the classics (and let’s face it, a veil is a classic for a reason), but it is lighter while still being very feminine. In other words, it is a stellar alternative for the Cathedral or Chapel length veils.

In keeping with the vintage inspired weddings, the birdcage look has been tres popular. For good reason, though … this style is genuinely elegant. However, this particular veil-version calls for a cool, calm and confident bride (and we realize this may be a tall order on your wedding day). So, this funky, cool and bold style calls for a bride with similar qualities. Thus, we think the demure bride may want to opt for something a little more traditional, like …

The Chapel or Cathedral length veils are classic, simple and utterly show stopping. Think about it, when the church doors fly open or she turns the corner and faces her groom and her guests with a trail of lace following her, you want to cry, yes? We feel the same way. For all the gorgeous styles out there, the longer versions maintain the feel of “its my wedding and I’ll veil if I want to.”

So, we ask you, please, honor the veil. Respect the veil. Rock the veil.

If you don’t know, Legare Waring House and its good friend and neighbor, Founder’s Hall, do a lovely rental package together, where your dreams can come true by having the whole place to yourself for your ceremony and reception to be spread across the whole of Charles Towne Landing.  Liz and Jonathan were smart and did just that.

Not only did we have a blast with them, I am so thankful we had the super cool and talented Amelia + Dan Photography along for the rider to capture their fun personalities!

From the sweet white gloves on the bridesmaids, to the fun props for all, everyone was destined for a fun night with this bride and groom at the helm.  We can only imagine the future smiles and laughter to come in their happily-ever-after life!

Venue: Legare Waring House and Founder’s Hall * Photography: Amelia + Dan Photography * Catering: Lowcountry Eats * Florals: OK Florist

Lately, I have to tell you, I’ve been loving one color scheme in particular: matte, soft grey and vibrant, vivd yellow.

It brightens up any interior while allowing the dulling grey hue to temper any overzealous colors, and as far as fashion statements goes well … no other color scheme rocked the Spring 2012 runways in New York quite so unanimously. So, our question today is, why not take this ultra-hip, tres-cool color combo from the fashion jungle to your wedding? Oh, well, there isn’t any one good reason not to and six thousand and one reasons to definitely outfit your wedding in yellow and grey.

Behold, our ideas:

Your Wedding Party:

From bridesmaids dresses to your flower girl’s tutu to footwear to bouquets using a sunshine yellow to highlight an oyster grey is the epitome of fashion and elegance. It is this author’s personal belief that this is a rare wedding color combo that is going to be really making waves soon. Grey bridesmaids dresses are already en vogue, but for those bold brides who aren’t afraid of color, yellow is really turning into grey’s new best bud … and the perfect compliment … much like your groom to you? (Okay, sorry we had to take that opportunity to be cheesy)!

Your Groom:

Your groom’s boutonniere and tie or bow tie are the perfect ways to insert a little bit of jazz into your wedding color scheme. I am loving the simple suit paired with those sweet little yellow buds. The entire look is so darn kicky we just think this couple should ride off on a bicycle built for two and call it a day.

Your Invites:

We know that, at least these days, letterpress is the way to go for those savvy brides looking to stay on trend. So why not infuse your invite with your color scheme? This is the absolute best way to set the tone of your wedding and get your guests jazzed about your “i dos.” We just cannot get over how fun this invite is. This one was definitely fridge decor for many a-guest, wouldn’t you say?!

Your Decor:

Of course, the most obvious use of this insanely awesome color scheme is with bold statements in your decor. Pardon me, but are those lemons in those arrangements? Umm … yeah that’s so creative and such a great summertime look. And how great are those lanterns with that beachy backdrop? This is where you can really get creative with your color scheme and use those yellow shades to enhance any aspect of neutral color. A pop of yellow and your good to go.

Your Munchies:

We’re thinking the munchies are the most understated way to infuse color into the ambiance of your reception. However, if you’re a fan of the neutrals and really like to shy away from color, then I say let the color of the food prevail! Plus how delicious do these little treats look? Two, please!

And we’re not opposed to adding hints of blue to this already outstanding color scheme. I say, a hint of blue does the wedding good.

Now, if you like our ideas for color schemes now you’re going to love our news: welcome to our monthly color scheme post. Tune monthly to hear about our brilliant ideas on how to spice up your wedding and add some flair in ways you didn’t even know were possible. Yeah, we’re that good.

And now some images from Yoj truly (get it? wink, wink).

Can you tell how much we love pops of yellow and grey?

Oh the wedding day … one day of total and complete fantasticness mixed quickness. Yeah, the cake and the music and the night only lasts so long and it is over just like that … and that hair style you worked so painstakingly over is but a memory. After the 58th bobby pin is shoved in place by your hair dresser’s savvy placement skills and brute strength you have a hair style that looks so effortless while actually being quite the opposite. And then it’s gone just like that.

So, the theory we have here is make that hair last. Make it awesome. Make it gorgeous. Make it something super sexy, super soft and worth the headache from the hours of blow drying, straightening, curling and brushing. Make it something worth the hole in the ozone that results from the can of hair spray holding it in place. Your hair is the icing on the cake to your entire look, therefore it is uber important.

Here are our ideas and our favorites:

Best Messy Up-Do:

The super soft nature of these hairstyles is what makes them so special in our book. Think romantic and vintage themed wedding highlighted by a killer sunset and some insanely bright wildflower bouquets. Yeah, that’s hot.

Best Half Back Looks:

These half back looks make me think of something awesome like The Princess Bride or Guinevere. I totally heart each and every one of them, but you may be saying to yourself, “I don’t have super long hair.” Here’s the thing: you don’t have to. All of these styles are just as gorgeous with mid-length hair. So fear not my fine-haired lasses, this blogger is fine-haired too! I empathize! That’s how I know that these awesomely innovative looks apply to girls of all hair types with the right hair dresser and some serious texturizing spray!

Best Pony Tail:

It is the humble opinion of this blogger that pony tails are the best option for those gals seeking a cleaner look. It gives you the option to maintain that rumpled sultriness while still looking like you actually ran a comb through your hair that day. So for all you ladies out there that say that ethereal hippie look isn’t for you, try on a pony tail. Really loving that side pony with a little volume on top … very 1950s diner musical meets Barbie!

Best Braid:

Let’s face it, the trend of the braid dominates the runways and wedding aisles as of late. And with good reason. A braid is a sensational way to keep your tresses in check while rendering you to be stunning. Plus, it is easy to take a braid and really make a killer hairstyle with a bit of clever pinning and tucking. And it is easy to make a braid look neat and tidy (a la Drew Barrymore’s look). I myself am a thin-haired fine-haired (as aforementioned) lady, and I opt for braids to add some dimension. It is always a hit!

Best Volume:

And again, calling all girls with whimpy hair! Adding some volume is the trick … it is key … it is of the utmost importance. This, my friends, is what I believe to be the biggest trick in hair styling. Your hair dresser, with a useful teasing comb, can make straight and flaccid hair look like mounds of luscious locks. Combine that with cleverly pinned and coiffed pieces and you will look like a million bucks … and on your wedding day isn’t that the goal (aside from the actual getting married part I guess).

Best Yoj Styles:

Charlotte Elizabeth Photography

This up do is so neat and tidy, I just love the way it frames her face. It allows those stunning earrings to pop and we all know that diamonds are the way to make your baby blues sparkle.

Tracy Turpen Photography

These masses of waves make her Lowcountry wedding. She is nothing short of stunning and ready to march down the aisle to become Mr. and Mrs. Stunning!

Sometimes the use of accessories in your hairstyle is just what the hair doctor ordered! In this case anyway!

Looking for a Lowcountry stylist for your oh so very Charleston wedding? Yoj recommends: Tanesha DuPree www.affairhairbytanesha.com and Chelsea Moser www.palooshsalon.com. We can’t wait to see your coif!

Ladies and Gentlemen, we just got wind of a new contest for those preparing to march down the aisle.

First of all, let me ask, have you ever heard of High Cotton Ties? These whimsical bow ties and cummerbunds are made of cotton so they are totally machine washable and gorgeous at that. This company is run by a mother-son team that is so stinkin’ cute, fun and talented, they almost make you want to buy their products just because you’ll fall in love with them so quickly.

And now, this fantastic brand is launching something new for this new year. Welcome to the Mr. & Mrs. High Cotton contest.

This first annual contest launched on January 1. Eligible participants are engaged couples whose wedding date is set between April 1st and November 30th. To enter, couples must visit this site and submit a 500 word essay on a story that makes your union so very special and a photo. On March 1st the High Cotton-selected finalists will be posted on Facebook where they will compete for “likes” for a week. The couple with the most “likes” wins being dubbed “Mr. & Mrs. High Cotton.” The maximum prize is $1200 worth of High Cotton products for your grooms’ party (and just as a little FYI, $1200 in High Cotton products equates roughly to 10 bow tie and cummerbund sets plus shipping). Now, don’t be surprised if the High Cotton team asks for photos of your newly stylish wedding party to post on their website. But what are we saying? Who wouldn’t want to show off all those dapper dudes!?

Yoj will have more to come on this insanely great opportunity, but for now, all you brides and grooms-to-be out there this is the time to enter this contest. Imagine your groom’s party being outfitted for free?! We can hardly contain our excitement!

An example of the elegant bow tie and cummerbund set you’re sure to win!

Check out those handsome fellas!

We know what you’re thinking: “If only my groom could look that good.”

This contest is so fantastic we just can’t contain our excitement!

It’s been the year of neutrals and vintage, so when I sat down with Jenna and Greg to discuss their big day, and the feel that she wanted was more evening glam, I was all over it.

A fun couple who knows events (Jenna is a catering director here in town <insert flattery for being chosen>), they wanted guests to have an experience more than a dinner party, and they were open to all of the fun elements to get them there!

A little evening at the Rice Mill is never a bad idea and Red Shutter Studio was the perfect selection to help us make all the memories!

Who doesn’t have a blast in a photo booth.  A little bit of ‘cheese’ goes a long way

On a blank wall, you can do so much.  In this case, some old pane mirrors filled corners and made those sweet little chands pop!

There’s something about the juxtaposition of that clean ivory cake on a sequin linen that screams perfect balance.

These two foodies wanted some of their faves for the late night, and Jenna shared hers with bite-sized samplings of cotton candy and cake pops, while Greg impressed with angus sliders and mini pilsners of Guiness.  You couldn’t go wrong.

Ceremony Venue: Sumerall Chapel * Reception Venue: Historic Rice Mill

Photography: Red Shutter Studio * Catering: Good Food Catering * Cake and Dessert: D’lish Desserts

Entertainment: Other Brother Entertainment * Lighting: Technical Event Company * Rentals: Event DRS

Flair Bar: Icebox Bar * Florals: Country & Lace * Calligraphy: Paige Tennanbaum

Stationery: Vera Wang and Shine * Hair: Affair Hair by Tanesha * Make up: Pamela Lesch

Caroline and Matt’s fun fete is popping up on The Wedding Row!

Where do heroes get married and celebrate? On a giant aircraft carrier, of course!  Brian and Stephane have such an amazing story of triumph from Stephane beating cancer to Brian overcoming a tragic battle injury in the middle east.  Such a couple deserves the perfect day and a big celebration of life!  The Yorktown provided the perfect backdrop for several hundred of their fans, fam and friends to come celebrate.

Some of my fave partners in crime were on hand to send them off in a big way from Iron Gate Events Catering, to the amazing imagery of new friends Red Shutter Studios.  Let’s just say the pros made sure no one missed out on the fun!

Contributing Pros: Red Shutter Studio, Iron Gate Catering, Country & Lace Florist, Aircraft Carrier Yorktown

So, bridal fashion is in high season and last night, some of those fab new styles made their way to town as Maddison Row and Bella Bridesmaid unveiled some of their best new looks.

While I mentioned all those fun new trunk shows coming up a few weeks ago, there is nothing like seeing those gorgeous gowns up close to fall in love.  No matter your style, 2012 collections promise something for everyone as I saw everything from the more clean, architectural shape to sheer, enchanting whimsy.  I just thought I’d share some pics of the jaw-dropping crowd pleasers last night!

From Lindsey and Allison extolling the virtues of each creation to Elle debuting her runway walk in the fun new “Kiki” by Hayley Paige, a fashionably good time was to be had, and if you haven’t stalked the latest runway looks, make those appts now!