The Giving Tree-Wedding Design

I recently had the opportunity to participate in a Tabletop Decor competition at a joint meeting of the OWA (Oahu Wedding Association) and NACE (National Association of Catering Executives). Given an open invitation to design is like telling a child to go into FAO Shwartz and pick out any toy in the store. The options are limitless! I decided to simplify and choose a design that would be environmentally conscious, nostalgic and playful. I choose to use the childhood classic, The Giving Tree, by Shel Silverstein, as inspiration. And the story goes..."Once there was a tree...and she loved a little boy. And everyday the boy would come and he would gather her leaves....and the boy loved the tree very much. And the tree was happy". This is only a snippet of a very lovely story about giving and unconditional love. How true the story is for marriage as well.
Picture by Dave Miyamoto
The centerpiece of this design is made from re-claimed wood that would otherwise be thrown out. The center was hallowed out to make room for florist foam. The initials on the trunk actually belong to my husband and myself but the wedding couples initials would take center stage or perhaps just a heart clould be carved leaving the intials for the centerpiece recepient. The plates are from Pier One and they somehow give the feel of wood.
Picture by Dave Miyamoto
The favors are miniature trees wrapped in unbleached muslin and tied with beautiful green organza ribbon. You can find saplings at your local nursery or at the Arbor Day Foundation website. For as little as $3.00 you can give a gift that will produce a living tree for each guest to enjoy.
Picture by ME:)
The luxurious linens from Les Saison evoked the feel of a luscious meadow or deep forest grotto. Naomi created organic feeling chair covers and oh-so-clever button and twine accents. Tree branches were placed around the table
and fastened to the chair covers.
Picture by Dave Miyamoto
Emi of Emi's Flowers and Gifts created the beautiful arrangement using chocolate cosmos, hydrangea, succulents and various leaves. The place cards and favor tags were made from beautiful papers that I found at a local craft supply store. I wish you could see the detail of the deep brown paper. It actually has the imprint of the bark of a tree and I was thrilled to find it.
Picture by Dave Miyamoto
Naomi and I posing in front of our table. Where's Emi?


At the end of the day, I was very pleased with the way the design turned out, much like the book, simple, welcoming and a little bit charming if I do say so myself. If you haven't read, The Giving Tree, you must pick it up one day. We can all learn from the little boy and the tree.

love.joy.laughter

The Nose Knows-Scentsy

I have a pretty sensitive nose. I'm usually the first one to detect a suspicious odor which makes me pretty handy to have around if you find yourself with a home gas leak or leaking exhaust fumes. Being so sensitive, I love to surround myself with smells that are pleasing. When I walk into my house instead of being accosted with Oh De Dog I'd much rather breathe in Home Sweet Home. So when my friend told me about a new line of home fragrances that she was representing, I knew I had to share it with you. I've collected my fair share of potpourri, diffusers, scented candles, grocery store plug-ins,you name it, I've tried it. What I like about the Scentsy product line is not only are the scent choices numerous, instead of using a candle, a bulb is used to heat the scents. If you have children or pets you don't have to worry about a potential house fire!

I'm planning on picking up a stash for Christmas gifts but how fun would they be for a bridal shower or house warming gift! Smell is one of those senses that can evoke memories, take us on a journey and create pleasant feelings. I'm feeling like talking a walk through a Moonlit Path next to a Field of Lavender. Mention Seasons of Life Wedding and Event Planning when you order. If you're ordering from Hawaii, you can save of shipping by combining your order with others and save up to 10% in shipping costs. Contact Tina for more information.

love. joy. laughter

Stomp Out Cancer-Heart and Soul Sisters

I'm so blessed to have my sister. She has been my confidant, advisor, sounding board and friend and now she is on a mission to help fight cancer. We ALL have been touched by cancer in one way or another and we ALL can help fight this terrible disease. Below is a letter my sister wrote on her Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure page.

I am putting on my walking shoes and joining thousands of other women and men across the country to raise money to stomp out cancer. The Susan G. Komen 3-Day Breast Cancer Walk in San Diego, the weekend prior to Thanksgiving, is the perfect time to offer praise for advancements in treatments, lives spared, as well as precious memories of lives well lived. This will be my third walk over the past four years, and I have new reasons to join the march against breast cancer.

I will walk with Mary, my aunt (by marriage), sweet friend, and team captain. She has reached her five year survivor mark, and we are celebrating! Mary is braving three walks this year in a span of about eight weeks! Go, Mary!

My sister, Karine, was diagnosed with breast cancer at the beginning of the year. Fortunately, it was caught early with a mammogram. She had surgery and radiation and she is now taking a preventative drug. In the midst of it all, she started her own wedding planning business! We continue to thank God for her health and His grace.

I signed up to walk the week my friend and colleague, Susan, came to the door with the news she had breast cancer. She is in the midst of treatment, yet continues to have faith in God and daily brings a smile to many.

I could mention other colleagues and friends who have bravely fought this epidemic just in this past year. And you probably have some stories of your own.

Let’s fight this horrible disease. I know times are difficult for many, but if you are able to offer financial support, I would greatly appreciate it. Each participant must raise $2300. These funds will support research and mammograms for those unable to afford it. This means lives will be saved.

Susan G. Komen is an excellent charity. I admire the way they run their organization, which is one reason I like to participate in this event. I feel confident the funds raised will be utilized effectively.

Please join me in praying for a cure.I could also use prayer support for health and endurance to complete this walk. Health is truly a gift.

Thank you and bless you for participating in any way you are able,

Michelle

I'm proud of you sis and so thankful for you. I'll be praying for you as you walk to STOMP OUT CANCER!

love.joy.laughter.

Bridal Photo Shoot V-Oceanfront Oasis

This is my final entry on the amazing bridal photo shoot at the Oasis World Estates in Aina Haina, Hawaii. As the sun set, the ambient lighting of the venue created a romantic and alluring setting.

The luxurious Oceanfront pool is the perfect spot for Nikki to relax at the end of the day.

The fire feature at the end of the pool and jacuzzi is an unexpected and spectacular surprise.

Nikki's hair and makeup is dramatic and sultry. Dark eyes and a pale lip are absolutely gorgeous.

I hope you've enjoyed a little peak into the Oasis World Estates as well as various hair and makeup looks. It's fun to be a girl and try on new looks. Have fun on your wedding day and bring out that inner glam goddess in you. It's YOUR special day!

Model: Nikki Hulme
Photography: Booke Dombroski
Makeup: Gemina Chong of Faith and Beauty 808-391-5753
Hair: Melanie Samiano of Faith and Beauty
Jewelry: Nini's Boutique
Location: Oceanfront Oasis

love.joy.laughter

Bridal Fashion Shoot IV-Oceanfront Oasis

Today I have two different bridal looks to share with you. Lacey's gorgeous red hair and lovely fair skin are played up with bold eyes and red lips. This 1940's inspired bridal look is ultra glamorous and quite alluring.

Lacey relaxing in the living room of the Oceanfront Oasis.

The photographer, Brooke Dombroski captured this shot and we all took a sneak peak in her cameras view finder. We knew this would be an amazing one!

And now...

I call Tori's look, "Breakfast in Tiffany's with a Tropical Flair". A little classic and very flirty, Tori's updo, bold eyes and muted lips are bridal fabulous.

As the sun sets at the Oceanfront Oasis, Tori lingers at the entrance of the estate.

Believe it or not, this picture was shot in the master bathroom of the estate. The light was amazing and the glass tile covered room created the perfect location for a head shot. Leave it to Brooke's creative eye to have figured this one out.

Check back for my next and final posting on this amazing bridal photo shoot. I'll give you a few words to think about....fire...water...sizzle...that's it! You'll have to check back to see what I'm talking about.

Models: Lacey Lien and Tori Silva

Photography: Booke Dombroski

Makeup: Gemina Chong of Faith and Beauty 808-391-5753

Hair: Melanie Samiano of Faith and Beauty

Jewelry: Nini's Boutique

Location: Oceanfront Oasis

love.joy.laughter

Bridal Photo Shoot III-Oceanfront Oasis

Today's bridal photo shoot took place at the stunning Oceanfront Oasis estate in Aina Haina, Hawaii on the beautiful island of Oahu. Within minutes of Waikiki yet out of the hustle and bustle of high rise hotels, the estate offers a private island venue.

Sheena's hair and makeup look is the epitome of classic beauty.

Poolside at the Oceanfront Oasis.

The private swing off of the main bedroom offers a peaceful location to relax with the Pacific ocean directly behind.

Again off of the main bedroom is a welcoming lanai with lounges and a view of the ocean.

The property is beautiful landscaped and provides a lush ocean front oasis.
Isn't Sheena absolutely gorgeous?

Model: Sheena Mendoza
Photography: Booke Dombroski
Makeup: Gemina Chong of Faith and Beauty 808-391-5753
Hair: Melanie Samiano of Faith and Beauty
Earrings: Nini's Boutique
Location: Oceanfront Oasis

love.joy.laughter

Bridal Photo Shoot II- Oasis World Estates

Today's look is fresh and playful on Taryn. The makeup pallet and hair design were inspired by the coral and pink dangle earrings which resulted in a whimsical and very pretty bridal look.

Beautiful artwork makes for a stunning photographic backdrop at the Beachfront Oasis estate.

The well maintained lawn and landscaping at the Beachfront Oasis estate lends it self beautiful to an oceanfront ceremony and an under the stars reception experience.

Model: Taryn Nakashima
Photography: Booke Dombroski Makeup: Gemina Chong of Faith and Beauty 808-391-5753
Hair: Melanie Samiano of Faith and Beauty
Earrings: Nini's Boutique

Location: Beachfront Oasis

love.joy.laughter

Bridal Fashion Shoot-Oasis World Estates

I am constantly inspired and encouraged with the talent of Hawaii wedding vendors. I recently had the privilege of assisting with the coordination of a bridal photo shoot which brought together beautiful models, a talented makeup artist and hair stylist, an amazing photographer and all at the gorgeous and exclusive Oasis World Estates in beautiful Aina Haina, Hawaii.
Each day this week I will feature a new model, the versatility of different hair and makeup looks and a sneak peak at two highly desired wedding and event venues.

Today's model is Ashley. Her height and long blond hair lends perfectly to the golden goddess look.

Luxurious koa wood features are throughout the Beachfront Oasis home.

Oh, to be a queen or at least feel like one on your wedding day! Ashley reclines on the ultra relaxing lounges in the main living area of the Beachfront Oasis.

Tropical foliage makes for a picture perfect backdrop.

Ashley is sizzling with this pose.

Check back all this week for more glam, beauty and inspiration.

Model: Ashely Weismantel

Photography: Booke Dombroski
Makeup: Gemina Chong of Faith and Beauty 808-391-5753

Hair: Melanie Samiano of Faith and Beauty
Earrings: Nini's Boutique
Locaton: Beachfront Oasis

love.joy.laughter

Inspiration Design-Pink Champagne

This final inspiration design of the week features another color on Pantone's Spring 2010 list. Pink has been a wedding standard for a long time. Here the palest shade of pink makes its appearance providing wedding color that is classic, sophisticated and oh so lovely.

•Shoes•Cake•Pitcher•Couple

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Wedding Inspiration Design-Violet

Purple has long been associated with all things royal. How appropriate to incorporate a subtle shade of violet into the decor of your very special wedding day.

•Purple balloon• Purple Bouquet•Artichoke Bouquet•Reserved Seats•Table Number

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