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  1. Something Blue Hair Comb Something  Blue double hair combs, bridal, wedding 

    Something blue flower hair pins, bridal, wedding Something blue wedding garter, bridal

    My latest designs and makes all contain a little bit of blue. These little pretty pastels are just perfect at the moment as we open the doors to spring. Still inspired by the 1920s and the rows and rows of luscious pearls, all the items in this collection contain a little strand (or two) of ivory beads to create just that little bit of extra interest to otherwise fairly classic designs. I particularly love the double hair combs and how the strand of glass beads link the two together - they were inspired by a bespoke order, but here, I used lace as the base, and added just a little bit of extra fabric for some flowers and leaves. I think they look fab with a loose hair updo :)

    double hair comb, bridal, wedding

    The collection is now available on Etsy and is ready to go. As usual, I also make bespoke items, so if you are feeling inspired by any of these designs but want something slightly different, get in touch!

  2. This month, I have been experimenting with making small flowers from shirting and tie fabrics for men's lapel pins. And I must say that I am loving the look. Far from being too much for everyday wear, I think that a small simple flower on a pin or even a small brooch, really lifts up a jacket or suit. To me, it says, "Spring is here, and I am loving it", "I love a little flash of colour", "A gentleman does appreciate flowers, you know" and "I want to make you smile". And many other things too. 
     
    With a bit of trial and error and of course some mistakes along the way, this photo sums up what I think works best as far as boutonnieres, lapel pins or men's brooches are concerned. So, whether you are considering to have lapel flowers on your wedding day, or simply everyday, to bring a little bit of colour and texture in your outfit, don't hesitate! 
     
    lapel pins for grooms and groomsmen
     
     
     
  3. flower girl headbandWhether the little ones are yours or those of close friends and family, having them to be fully included in the proceedings will always be rather special but can seem a bit daunting to some. Tiny flower girls, little ring bearers, or simply small witnesses can be a little unpredictable, so here are some tips on how make the best it it without too much stress or too big a dent in the wedding funds! 

    Talk it Through 

    When a little person has a key role, it sounds obvious, but many forget to talk about it with the right mind set - that it is something special to look forward to, that mummy and daddy will be very proud if everything goes to plan, that he/she will play a very important role, etc. They should of course know what is expected of them (whether it is just sitting pretty for photos or walking down the aisle). A verbal story or pretend play with little figurines or similar items are great for explaining it all, as are books with weddings scenes. 

    Manage the Pressure 

    Which all depends on the child's character and abilities. If little one is too young to understand instructions, let alone follow, don't count on him/her to be able to be able to carry the rings, have a back up plan, e.g. an older bridesmaid who can help. If your child is shy, walking down the aisle on his or her own is very stressful, so have someone else hold hands and practise a lot. Or allow them to carry a favourite teddy. 

    Make Sure it's not all Go Go Go on the Day

    A tired baby or toddler (or even bigger kids) are more likely to lead to melt down, so make sure that there is enough quiet time, or relaxing time - as well as a suitable place to wind down, have a cuddle, read a book, etc. Have a little bag of snacks and a drink ready too, because hungry tots are no fun too, and food is nearly always late at big dos!

    Think of Entertainment

    It doesn't have to be anything fancy or expensive if your budget doesn't allow: entertaining the kids can be as simple as having  a few balloons, crayons and paper, some simple games, or if you have quite a few little ones to entertain, a cordoned off area with borrowed garden toys. 

    The Logistics 

    This can be a bit complicated if you don't give it a litte thought in advance. Make sure the venue has what you need for little ones - changing facilities, high chairs, children menu, etc. You might be surprised how many places lack some basic facilities. If that's the case, then just plan ahead and bring your own stuff, such as a proper changing mat, booster chair, or tubs of food. 

    Clothing and Accessories

    Nothing more frustrating that buying expensive clothes and accessories and have the kids throw them at the wall because they don't like them. Unfortunately, this very often happens, whether as a way of expressing their independence (and being fed up of just been told to do this and that), or simply because what you bought is uncomfortable, clumsy, itchy, etc. As an accessories designer, my advice to parents is to never get something too expensive, to allow them to choose before purchasing whenever possible, and to try to get them to wear and try in advance, with a lot of emphasis on how  much fun it is. Books showing a character in a pretty dress, with the type of accessories you want them to wear etc., are always useful as they can be used to point out the pretty dress, the bow tie, the bouquet, etc. Have a back up plan, if there is a melt down on the day about getting dressed up! 

    Praise Good Behaviour

    Finally, when you see good behaviour, don't forget lots of praise to keep them going. Little ones are proud when they feel that they have achieved something, so show them that you approve!