The City Sage

The Inside Scoop on my Pride and Prejudice Shoot!

Okay, time to share some favorite shots and the insider scoop from my Pride and Prejudice wedding spread for Nonpareil Magazine! This project was an epic undertaking and would still be a spark in my imagination if not for the incredible contributors who helped me. Firstly I'd like to thank Villa Montalvo in Saratoga for hosting us. I can't imagine a more memorable venue for a wedding!

The gorgeous table settings were courtesy of Gump's, a San Francisco homewares institution. Can you picture me waltzing in and taking my pick from their incredible selection of fine china? Kid. In. A. Candy. Store. As for the table, the Huz built it with scrap wood and pillars from Ohmega Salvage. It looked great but was it structurally sound? Um, we had a 'don't touch the table' policy on set.

The Fashion. Oh my gosh, you guys, the fashion. Elizabeth Dye of The English Dept. custom made all the boleros for us--that striped one was inspired by the recent BBC production of Emma! She also created the pin-dot gown in the shots below. All other gowns were courtesy of Bella Bridesmaid, an amazing resource for bridesmaid and bridal gowns that I wish I'd known about when I got married!

Holy guacamole. The dessert spread. All the treats were generously donated by Miette, my favorite San Francisco sweet shop. Cake stands arrived courtesy of Wisteria. The tea cups, saucers, serving plates and silver you see throughout the spread all belong to me, my mother or my grandmother. I loved being able to include a family touch!

Definitely my favorite detail in the whole project, these tiny miniature portraits are a spoof on the current trend in wedding photography to have the bride and groom poise while holding polaroids of each other. I totally cracked myself up with this one--and I owe a huge thanks to the Huz for photoshopping our models' faces onto old portraits from the 1800's!

No wedding is complete without accessories! Myra of Twigs & Honey custom designed all the headpieces for the shoot. Don't those flowers slay you? The antique-inspired reticule bags are from Moyna. Gemstone baubles from Fuss Jewelry oozed elegance and romance. And that stunner of a ring above? My very good friend Juliano of Juliano Jewelry made it. He's a diamond master!

The cake: swoon! Gabby at Cake Coquette came up with the lovely swirling vine and butterfly pattern based on a swatch of silk Chinoiserie I found. And the breathtaking flower arrangements from Sharla Flock Designs took this project to a whole other level. Sharla's work has appeared on the cover of Martha Stewart Weddings so I knew we were in expert hands!

Our models Sterling and Shaye worked the shoot courtesy of Look Model Agency. We couldn't have asked for a more smoldering couple! All the men's apparel that Shaye wears is from John Varvatos, whose 'tailoring meets rock 'n' roll' sensibility made for the perfect brooding Mr. Darcy vibe. And our hair and make-up artist Sherrie Long blew me away with the looks she created for Sterling!

Bella Figura stopped their presses and asked their team of letterpress gurus to create a custom stationery suite. You cannot go wrong with Bella Figura's astounding designs, which are all printed on vintage equipment with eco-friendly inks and papers. Kathryn of Dream a Little Dream Events picked up her graceful pen for the escort card calligraphy. I saved the one that reads 'Elizabeth Bennett!'

The bench in the foreground was loaned to us by Wisteria--they are the nicest folks you'll ever meet! Finally, that folding screen in the background? The Huz built it with my mom--who kindly flew all the way from Toronto to help out! Let's just say that in spite of my attempts to have everything ready in advance, we had to bring a circular saw to the set.

Last but definitely not least, I owe a huge debt of gratitude to Lisa Lefkowitz for sharing my vision and capturing it through her peerless lens. Lisa is a true artist and it was the highlight of my professional career to collaborate with her. And naturally, a massive thank you goes out to Andrew Hsu of Studio MSV for the video he created of the project. My friends, colleagues, and readers, right now my cup runneth over and I am brimming with joy! Have a glorious weekend :)

To see more images from this project, to read my complete write-up, and to get some fun downloadable DIY's, please head to this month's issue of Nonpareil Magazine!

Sponsored Links: Complete list of credits: Photography: Lisa Lefkowitz Photography / Concept, Production and Styling: Anne Sage of The City Sage/ Florals: Sharla Flock Designs / Hair and Makeup: Sherrie Long / Cake: Cake Coquette / Paper Goods: Bella Figura Letterpress / Calligraphy: Kathryn Kalabokes of Dream a Little Dream / Table Settings: Gump’s / Furnishings: Wisteria / Fashion: Custom made by Elizabeth Dye/The English Dept. (Boleros, Polka dot bridal gown) / Ready-to-wear by Bella Bridesmaid (Cream chiffon bridal gown is HB6953 by Saja; blue bridesmaid gown is Santorini, pink bridesmaid gown is Sonoma, both by Swoon / Hair pieces: Custom made by Twigs & Honey / Dessert buffet: Miette / Diamonds: Juliano Jewelry / Other Jewelry: Fuss Jewelry / Models: Shaye and Sterling for Look Model Agency / Location: Villa Montalvo, Saratoga, California / Video: Andrew Hsu of Studio MSV / Men’s Fashion: John Varvatos / Handbags: Moyna Sponsored Links: Pass 1z0-048 exam fast to explore the better job opportunities. Join today for complete set of JN0-343 dumps and 000-087 practice exam.

Breathtaking Video from My Pride and Prejudice Project!

Tomorrow I'll share some favorite images from the Pride and Prejudice wedding editorial I did for Nonpareil Magazine. But in the meantime please enjoy the video of the project, created by the incredibly talented Andrew Hsu of Studio MSV. So far I've watched it a zillion times and counting!

P.S. Can we talk about our incredibly hunky Mr. Darcy (aka Shaye)? And our gorgeous Elizabeth Bennett (aka Sterling)? Both worked with us courtesy of Look Model Agency, and they were a dream to have on set!

At Last! My Biggest Project Ever Is Revealed!

Remember two months ago when I was horribly mean and teased you all with mentions of a big project about which I couldn't divulge the details? Finally the day has arrived and I can spill the beans! I was utterly honored to concept, produce and style a photo shoot for the phenomenal wedding magazine Nonpareil. It was the most fun I've ever had!

You can see the results of the photo shoot here! As well, I thought I'd share the mood boards that starting the ball rolling. The theme for this issue of Nonpareil was 'A Silver Screen Soiree', and we received a list of movies or television shows from which we could draw inspiration. For me, choosing 'Pride and Prejudice' was a no-brainer.

Then the excitement really began! I chose a palette and an overall sensibility--ruled by the fashions, interiors and general mood of Jane Austen's era. I plundered portrait archives for hair and outfit ideas, and headed straight to Style Me Pretty for floral and decor directions. And I created my dream list of vendors and contributors--a dream that came true in the final result!

Naturally I'll be back soon with more on this project--including more of the photos themselves and a shout out to all my incredible collaborators. But humor me while I draw things out just a little. After all, what kind of wedding obsessed style junkie would I be if I didn't?

1. Millie Holloman via Style Me Pretty 2, 12. Domino 3. Jose Villa via Style Me Pretty 4, 16. Martha Stewart Weddings 5, 6, 11, 13, 15. Unknown 7. Laurie Frankel 8. Living Etc. 9. Country Living 10. Sarah Seven 14. Prospect Park Peristyle P.S. If you recognize any of the uncredited photos, PLEASE let me know where they're from! I feel terrible for misplacing my sources!

Inspired By: Bridal Suite Style

Can a Tuesday morning handle this much beauty? I don't know, but I think it's worth the risk. My lovely friends Cyd and Ami recently styled and produced a stunning bridal suite photo shoot. I'm so captivated by the soft, romantic palette and the elegant feminine sensibility, I simply had to let my imagination run wild with the images they created!

It's been two years since I was deep in the throes of planning my nuptials, but I still avidly follow my favorite wedding blogs. If you avoid these blogs simply because you're not a bride, you're definitely missing out! The inspiration you'll find translates easily into home, fashion and entertaining; it's a guaranteed sucker punch of serious style.

In this case, I envisioned the warm blush tones of the bridal suite as rooms with layered neutrals and subtle metallic accents. The ruffled textures of peonies and silk reappear in wallpapers and throw pillows. It's a whole new take on the traditional 'something borrowed'!

See all the photos from Cyd and Ami's shoot here and here. And tell me: Do you love wedding blogs as much as I do?

Image Credits: 1, 4, 5, 8, 9, 12. Missy Photography for The Sweetest Occasion and Elizabeth Anne Designs 2. Sandra Lane 3, 10. Canadian House and Home 6, 11. Crown Wallpaper 7. Elle Decor June 2010

Stop the Presses: Meet Unusually Fine Photography!

I'd been toying with the idea of taking some anniversary photos with the Huz but had no clue how I would choose from all the great photographers out there. Then I discovered Unusually Fine Photography--a wedding, engagement, and portrait studio--and all I could think of was teleporting to New York for a shoot with the ultra-talented Max and Margaret. But the time/space continuum being what it is, I've settled for the next best thing--an exclusive interview with this amazing duo!

Tell me about the birth of Unusually Fine. It’s a funny story, that. We met at a Boston T stop and after a short but steamy courtship realized we would be best friends always. We are both passionate about photography, fashion and books. We collaborated on a fine art project and had so much fun making photographs that we decided going into business together was maybe the best idea ever.

What makes Unusually Fine photos, well, unusually fine? In a word, us! We put into every wedding the same thought and planning we’d put into a fashion shoot. That’s how we make our subjects look so glamorous. We always work weddings as a team, which makes for extraordinary coverage and value. And we use the best equipment, latest technology, and the finest prints and books.

What are some favorite art and design influences that inspire and inform your work? Margaret finds inspiration in places like W Magazine, Wong Kar-wai movies, and blogs such as ffffound.com. Max is big on old Hollywood, Gerhard Richter, and (yup) Lady GaGa.

The incredibly private moments you capture make me blush and tingle at the same time. How are you able to get your subjects to disarm so completely for the camera? Our work attracts fun and interesting couples! And we get to know our clients before the wedding, so when the big day arrives we’re already pals. This intimacy allows us to mix easily and capture those candid moments that tell the story best. (P.S. Max thinks Margaret is very disarming.)

Thanks to Max and Margaret for sharing with us! And honestly, these tiny images don't do justice to Unusually Fine's pulse-racingly-good work, so you've got to check out their website and hilarious blog. Plus if you're a bride-to-be with an upcoming wedding in New York state, I'm officially jealous: you can enter to win Unusually Fine's services for your wedding day! Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to buy matching his 'n' hers striped shirts :)

P.S. Speaking of winning, don't forget to enter this morning's giveaway for Jamie Oliver's latest cookbook!

All images courtesy of Unusually Fine. Sponsored Links: Get up to date 1z0-047 questions to practice for 1z0-054 exam and complete your 156-215 certification on time.

DIY Valentine's Day Tabletop with Kelly Oshiro Events!

I'm more excited about this than anything else I've ever posted--it's my first editorial collaboration! And I owe it all to the amazing Kelly Oshiro of Kelly Oshiro events, who created this tabletop exclusively for us here at The City Sage.

Valentine's Day has so many different facets, and so much potential for crafting and decorating; it can be girly or glam, playful or punchy, sweet or simple. Kelly and I wanted to explore a look that went beyond hearts and roses to the true meaning the day: chocolate, chocolate, and more chocolate!

Of course while we were at it, we had to include plenty of scrumptious eye candy and easy, budget friendly DIY's. This entire spread was executed for about $60 using materials available at the craft store and around the house. My jaw dropped when Kelly showed me the final result!

Stay tuned later today for more photos and on how to get the look--including the DIY for Kelly's incredible woven crepe paper tablecloth. And in the meantime, tell me: what's your favorite spin on Valentine's Day decorating?

Update: More images and instructions here! And if you're looking for more fun Valentine's Day inspiration, check out my free printable download!

Styling: Kelly Oshiro for The City Sage Photos: Tim Halberg for Kelly Oshiro and The City Sage Sponsored Links: Enjoy the real success with 642-067 online training. This all in one 642-972 training package includes everything you may need to pass high tech 646-656 exam.

At Last, My Wedding Pictures!

I'm thrilled to announce that today my wedding is featured on Save the Date, Glamour Magazine's new wedding's blog. I have been waiting for ages to reveal these photos to the world! Planning my wedding was the most fun and exhilarating project I've ever undertaken, so bear with me while I inundate you with a 'few' extra images--just for today, I promise!

Our day began with an early morning ceremony at the oldest Episcopal Church on the Pacific coast. The combination of soaring ceilings, stained glass windows, and my sweetie waiting at the altar was an overwhelming site. Thank goodness for waterproof mascara; I cried the whole way down the aisle!

When I first began thinking about my ideal wedding, I was enamored with the idea of a having a breakfast reception instead of an evening one. That turned out not to be practical, so instead we did the American equivalent: a post-ceremony brunch at a diner! My mom always took me to this restaurant for pancakes when I was a kid, so it was a blast to share my favorite spot with our guests.

Next up was a stop at a 19th century fort near the base of the Golden Gate Bridge. The architecture and the sense of history added a magical dimension to our photo session. Plus, while we were there, a local theatre troupe did an impromptu performance of MacBeth!

We couldn't have asked for better light, and the wind was blowing like crazy. With my gown swirling around my ankles in the breeze, I truly felt like a princess for a day. And perhaps I'm biased, but doesn't the huz look handsome in his suit?

Last stop? The Sonoma Valley for a candlelight reception at the Sonoma Mission Inn. Our flower arrangements were housed in family heirloom silver that I gathered from my mother and grandmothers. A live band played swing tunes, and our guests were welcomed to their tables by menus and cookie favour boxes--all the work of yours truly!

The huz and I spent the months before the wedding taking swing dancing lessons, and we did a choreographed number to Ella Fitzgerald singing 'I'm Beginning to See the Light'. Huz in particular stole the show! After that, everyone hit the dance floor--it was amazing to see our loved ones having so much fun.

Of course, there were the requisite speeches, the cake cutting, the tears and the riotous laughter--all part and parcel of a perfect wedding! We felt so honored to have our friends and family travel from all over the world to celebrate our marriage.

The entire day was captured through the lens of the phenomenal Anna Kilbridge--she's an incredible talent and a beautiful soul. Thank you everyone for letting me share my photos and my wedding story with you, and have a great weekend full of love and beauty!

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DIY Guest Post at Classic Bride!

The lovely Sarah of Classic Bride asked me to share a favourite project for her DIY week, and I was only too happy to comply! This fun and easy floral arrangement is perfect for any occasion. And while you're there, be sure to explore the Classic Bride blog for style and entertaining tips that go way beyond weddings!

Utterly Awestruck: The Flashdance Wedding Photography

This is not a wedding blog. And that's probably for the best, because my love of other peoples' wedding photos borders on obsession. I just can't get enough of them; they're my candy. And these images from The Flashdance are the perfect example of why.

The photography arm of The Flashdance--a total wedding resource based in Los Angeles--consists of Jess and Whitney from Our Labor of Love, and Max Wanger, whose work I guarantee you've seen here. Weddings are a microcosm of the newlyweds' universe, with each detail speaking volumes about their personalities and about what makes them unique as a couple. These photos so beautifully capture that.

What's more, the emotion that radiates from wedding photos captivates me. The smiles on this day are so happy, the eyes so full of love. Yes, we know there might be a million things happening behind the scenes to stress out the bride and groom (heaven knows there are more than a few shots of me running around like a crazy woman in my white dress) but in the end, the pendulum swings heavily in favour of utter joy.

But more than anything else, I love looking at wedding photos because my wedding was one of the most fun experiences I've ever had--think pancakes, a school bus, swing dancing, and a Civil War era fort--and I love seeing others having that much fun too. It's so fascinating to me all the different ways that couples find to be playful together. It inspires me to keep that spirit of play alive all the time, even when there's no camera watching.

So tell me: what did you/would you do for fun at your wedding? More importantly, what are you doing for fun this weekend?

All images courtesy of The Flashdance. See tons more here--it's like instant Prozac!

One to Watch: 100 Layer Cake

Last summer, when I lived and breathed all things wedding, I was glued to my screen for the exquisitely stylish lead-up to the wedding of Kristina from Lovely Morning. So I was beyond thrilled to discover that as of last month, Kristina and a few of her friends have embarked upon an exciting new venture: 100 Layer Cake! They describe it as a 'wedding planning resource for and by crafty, modern women' but I can tell it's going to be so much more.

A full site is on the way; for now you can head to their blog for fabulous entertaining tips (a spa party with homemade beauty potions and downloadable recipe cards!), gorgeous inspiration boards and color palettes, and generally fresh, cool, accessible ideas with a warm, clean contemporary aesthetic. I cannot wait to see what they come up with next---looks like I'll be glued to my screen a while longer!

All images courtesy of 100 Layer Cake.