paper olive featured again in weddings in houston magazine

one of our favorite magazines, weddings in houston, has once again featured paper olive in one of their glorious style articles — this time, on the beauty and importance of a couple's first impression: the wedding invitation.

we are delighted to be counted among such fabulous design experts, and as always, think the cover is simply spectacular!

inspiration • indian weddings

happily, one of my long-time favorite style trends is becoming quite popular with 2011 brides: the indian-themed wedding.

whether you are marrying in new dehli, met in bombay, or just want to add some exotic colorful flair to your day, these ideas are sure to spark a little bit of bollywood glam.

design and photo credits

first row — {wedding cake} design cakes via flickr • {ceremony site} olivia leigh photography

via elizabeth anne designs • {bridal makeup} wedding come true

second row — {henna} luxury hindu weddings • {bouquets} heather parker photography • {shell ring pillows} the knot

third row — {groom on horse} serendipity photography • {bride & groom with petals} slr lounge

style faves • monique lhuillier 2011

if anyone knows how to ring in a new year, it's monique lhuillier. with a signature style that always seems to reinvent itself from year to year, lhuillier's gowns are continually fresh, showstopping, and always one of my favorite things about any new season.

from an exquisite spring collection that absolutely tops itself from dress to dress, these are my two favorites in the bunch — jules, a super chic short dress for the fashionably flirty, and giada, a breathtaking embroidered stunner that i've never quite seen anything like before. just in love.

twist on a holiday favorite

there is nothing more inviting or comforting than the sight of a family of christmas stockings all lined up above a warm holiday fireplace. visions of red and green and reindeer come to mind.

but i'm absolutely in love with this chic twist on the idea — cozy cable knit and simply elegant, these ivory stockings from pottery barn line the mantle with clean happy lines, letting the thoughtful gifts poking out above each embroidered red name be the joyful focal point.

merry christmas to all, and in fabulous style!

wild about anemones

i've always been a fan of crisp black and white anemones, but i've seen them recently with a splash of color...and i think they may be my new favorite trend.

there is just something playful and delicate about these flowers, and the hint of color makes them slightly more casual, as well as versatile. they are just so unapologetically bold, with their robust black centers and curvaceous petals. looking for unique floral ideas? you can't go wrong here.

design and photo credits

{bouquet} martha stewart • {wedding cake} the caketress • {hair accessory} brina babe