Pretty Paper....

I ADORE all things paper. I love pretty invitations, programs and paper mementos. In this era of e-vites and the totally social no-no (in my humble opinion) of sending an invitation via text message - pretty paper seems almost like it is becoming ex tint! Yikes! Sometimes, when I am working with a bride or someone who is having an event or party, I find myself having to sell them on the significance of spending a little extra on not only paper, but good quality paper and print. What a treat and delight it is for me when I find old wedding programs or invitations of some of my older relatives, or even family friends and relatives who have passed. A beautiful and preserved program or birth announcement gives a glimpse into the past, almost as if I were there. One of my high school classmates, Amanda Alexander, owns The Keeping Room in Baton Rouge. The Keeping Room is one of my favorite places to wonder through, located in a charming old wood frame house on Jefferson Highway, you are sure to find something, whether you are having an event or not. The Keeping Room website, www.thekeepingroombr.com, is listed under "Lovelee Places", get lost in all of the pretty things on the site before stopping by.

Also, I recently had my business cards printed by a very talented, local artist, Kathryn Hunter. I began to do my own business card research late last year, and quickly determined that I wanted something strikingly unique, memorable and different and that also reflects my appreciation for "pretty paper". After much research and debate, I settled on letterpress business cards. Letterpress is the oldest traditional printing technique, dating back to the fifteenth century, it has recently been made popular again by lifestyle and entertaining experts like, Martha Stewart. It is much more expensive than most other types of printing, but the technique of printing a modern design by using such a vintage method is absolutely magical to me. My business cards look and feel classic and hip and chic at the same time. So, you guessed it - I'm going totally "Lady GaGa for all things letterpress!" You can quote me on that. Kathryn does wonderful custom letterpress invitations, announcements, calling cards, business cards and stationary. Her company's website, Blackbird Letterpress, www.blackbirdletterpress.com, is listed under "Lovelee Things".

Jump Start Your Heart 2nd Annual Valentine Gala

I've been very busy lately, and haven't had nearly as much time as I wish I had to blog. But I've been busy with what I like to call a "party with a purpose". This one was so fun, and I came on board a bit late. I am going to attach the link to a great, local non-profit organization, Jump Start Your Heart or, JSYH. Last Saturday, which was the eve of Valentines Day, was the 2nd annual fundraiser. The photographer for the event, Baton Rouge photographer, Darryl Bell, was so kind to get back to me so quickly with a few pictures to post. The Gala was held at the Old State Capital, one of my favorite aspects of my job is being able to work at so many different, beautiful and creative venues. And so far, the Old State Capital is on my very short list of "favorite venues". There are many wonderful and talented florists in Baton Rouge, but I am so partial to Broadmoor Village Florist on Florida Boulevard in Baton Rouge. The ladies over there are so easy to work with. I went to them at the last minute looking for Hydrangeas to decorate the ballroom, and as usual - they came through for me (on the day before Valentines Day of course - "Love Them". Thank you all so much!!!) The staff and volunteers at the Old State Capital are also an absolute delight to work with! If you are ever looking for a great place to have a party or reception - you should check it out.