CEDAR AND LACE

Issue one

Cedar and Lace's

mission is to

capture the essence of the

Seattle area’s unique and

nontraditional style.

We provide helpful

resources for planning a

distinctive Northwest

wedding, while bringing

together small, local vendors

creating a supportive

local economy.

A Personal Touch by Emily Wallace

“ Sewing and weddings are two of my favorite tHINGS and I’m so excited to tell you about my experience sewing my dress! ”

Most people probably never even consider sewing their own wedding dress. Trying to make something that intricate while planning the rest of your wedding SEEMS like a recipe for disaster. I’m here to tell you that it doesn’t have to be.

Making my dress was an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything !

My mom designed and made her own gown so the concept was not outlandish for me. Sewing is such a huge part of my family’s life and I was able to grow up with the mindset that anything is possible. My boyfriend (at the time) and I had been dating for about two years, and I was getting wedding fever big time. Marriage was something we'd talked about openly for a long time so I knew it was in our cards, it was just a matter of financial stability and timing. As an outlet for some of my excitement, I decided to start a wedding binder to collect images, websites, tips, and color schemes that inspired me. The first thing I noticed was the insane amount of money brides are expected to spend on a gown. On top of that, I am just shy of 5’ 3” with a very small bust and I wasn’t sure I’d be able to find something that suited my figure. Alterations would probably be equivalent to the cost of the dress itself! No, thank you. That’s when I officially decided I needed to design and make my own dress.

My dress inspiration came from an early 1960’s dress pattern that I bought at an antique store for a couple dollars, as well as pretty much every BHLDN wedding dress that was on their website. I drew the original vintage dress on paper, then I drew it again with a few modifications and repeated this process over and over and over again. What you think you want it to look like will constantly change so you have to allow yourself some time to explore your options and take in new ideas. That’s one of the benefits of making it yourself - you get to do whatever you want!

So, this whole process started a little over a year before we got married. Early on I knew I wanted a textured raw silk. It’s really easy to work with and the texture gives it a real vintage look - it’s also cheaper than the more refined and traditional silk used for most wedding dresses. Next, I measured myself to see what size of the pattern I was going to use and how much material I would need to purchase. I needed roughly 4 yards of silk (I was basing my modified pattern off the original one and I knew my alterations would not require more fabric) but I went ahead and bought 4 1/2 yards. The silk was $20 a yard and I wanted extra material for potential mistakes (yes, I knew there was a good chance I would mess up!). I also bought a 22” cream zipper for $2.50, 3 spools of cream dual duty thread for $2 each, then I got (I think) 4 yards of cream tulle that was about $3.50 a yard.

Now, I’m going to come right out and confess that I did not make a muslin of my dress. A muslin is a trial pattern that you make out of cheap fabric (muslin) so you know what needs altering before you risk messing up on the real deal. Yes, it takes a little extra time but it does pay off - and for beginners I strongly suggest doing this step.

It wasn’t until about 6 months before our engagement, and 11 months before what would end up being our wedding day, that I actually started to sew my dress. I was terrified of making my first incision in that fabric; I don’t know if it was the fear of messing up, or the reality that it was all real and this was the dress I would be wearing on one of the biggest days of my life - Bottom line, it was very scary, but very exhilarating! And so it began.

In my spare moments I would work on little bits of the dress at a time. Normally when I make something I devote an entire day to start and finish an article of clothing; It’s not a healthy way of going about it, especially since I usually forget to eat, brush my teeth or even get out of my pajamas. I wanted this to be different. I wanted to savor each stitch and not allow myself to get frustrated with it.

When sewing any piece of clothing you want to constantly try it on and make sure it fits. You can always make something smaller, but you can’t make it bigger.

Side note: When sewing clothes be sure your blinds are closed and the door is locked - it’s easy to forget to put your clothes back on when you keep trying on your work in progress!

Anyway, once I sewed most of my dress together (excluding the hem, zipper, and a few decorative details) I put it on and pinned the back of it together to see if it needed to be smaller before I sewed my zipper on. Zippers are a pain and I only wanted to do it once. I chose to do an exposed zipper, which is when you sew the zipper on the outside of the dress instead of having it hidden. It’s a lot easier to sew and I felt like it was more Anthropologie-esque. Next, I pinned on the zipper and tried the dress on one more time before I sewed it. So far so good. When I finally sewed the zipper on I was so excited to try it on again. This moment was my favorite. I tried it on and it fit like a glove. From here on out I knew for sure I had a wedding dress to wear and all that was left were the creative embellishments and the tulle skirt to give it some life!

I wanted lace at the base of the dress to show from underneath and a full tulle skirt. My mom made a basic short crinoline skirt out of some leftover fabric she had, and we attached layered tulle on the outside of it. Crinoline is a skirt made out of stiff fabric and is worn under a dress or skirt to help keep its shape. Then, I found a cream maxi skirt for $30 at Fred Meyer that was made of tulle with a strip of gorgeous lace at the bottom.

I used the outside layer and cut the top half off, attached some thin elastic for the waist and wore this on top of the crinoline skirt. The lace was just long enough to peak out from the bottom of the gown. For the belt, I found these amazing beaded hair clips at Anthropologie. I bought five at $18 each and clipped three of them to the center of the belt and the other two were worn in my hair.

When looking for wedding dress accents and accessories on a budget, I suggest taking the time to shop around at normal clothing stores. Bridal shops mark up their prices because they know a bride will likely splurge on anything she’s going to wear on her wedding day. You’d be amazed what you can find - even at Fred Meyer!

At the time, I never really calculated the cost of the dress and accessories because everything was purchased so gradually and I knew it wasn’t going to be very extravagant. I finally added everything up, including the hair accessories, the vintage pattern, and everything else that was put toward the dress, and the grand total was roughly $240. That’s pretty affordable, wouldn’t you say? Sewing your own wedding dress isn’t for everyone, but it’s definitely worth considering. If you aren’t confident in your sewing skills, Seattle offers dozens of sewing classes that are far cheaper than a wedding gown and who knows, maybe you’ll have a daughter someday asking you to help make her wedding gown, too!

A Garden Oasis in the Heart of West Seattle

Village Green Perennial

Over the past few months we have had the pleasure of visiting Village Green Perennials on multiple occasions. If there is one thing we can take away from our experience is that you truly have to see it to believe it. Pictures will never do it justice. When you first enter the nursery you are greeted with smiles and kindness, and every moment until you leave, you feel as though you are worlds away from your day-to-day life. Everything from the rolling buttercup field, to the handmade Madrona arbor is what makes Village Green Perennial a complete fairytale. Owner Vera Johnson has worked endlessly to make Village Green into an awe-inspiring nursery and wedding venue that provides the very best resources available to create a sustainable living space that will satisfy all of your dreams.

Another uniquely wonderful thing about this venue is the vacation rental on site. If you are looking for a place to stay or host guests before and after the ceremony, the vacation rental is an excellent and homey option. With three spacious bedrooms and a full kitchen, you will feel right at home as you embark on your journey as newlyweds.

We will never forget our time at Village Green Perennials, and even having seen many venues in our day, we know this one will always hold a special place in our hearts. If you are looking for the perfect garden wedding, we highly recommend you make a trip out to Village Green Perennial and meet Vera. You can walk along 2 acres of property and let your mind wonder with possibility.

Gather together with your bridesmaids for an afternoon of relaxing fun at Village Green Perennial! We are pleased to announce that owner Vera Johnson is now offering group classes that make for an unforgettable bridal shower or bachelorette party. Enjoy time laughing and bonding as you are

guided through the design of a handmade project while sipping wine and snacks. While you are there, enjoy a walk through all two acres of grounds and take in all of the delights that Village Green has to offer. There are a range of classes to choose from so you are sure to find one that suits your taste. Enjoy anything from crafting handmade globe twinkle lights that can be hung at your own wedding, to cooking up some delicious simple syrup that can be used in cocktails later in the evening. If you are looking for a unique and intimate bridal gathering, Village Green Perennial is our go-to choice. Classes range in length, but typically take

about two and a half hours, and are priced on a per person basis.

For more information contact Village Green Perennial directly at info@villagegreenpn.com

Girls Day Out

Spencer Wallace is one truly talented photographer. His immense passion for photography and creative eye allow him to capture the essence of life, love and happiness in a way that few can. Spencer has a personality that is larger than life and a gift for making even the most shy couples feel comfortable and confident. Spencer Wallace Photo comes at the highest recommendation from Cedar and Lace and his previous clients. We are so thankful for his incredible contribution to Cedar and Lace and for being an essential part of our start-up team. We are confident that you will love Spencer and his work just as much as we do.

Spencer Wallace Photo

The Two Guys Bow Tie is one of our favorite new vendors! They make handmade wood products such as bow ties and lapels. Adding a wooden bow tie and lapel is a great way to add an unique touch to any wedding. We highly recommend checking out their website and seeing what they have to offer. You will be amazed at the selection they have the the detail that is put into

each piece . They are true works of art.

ARBR Pictures (pronounced AR-BER) is a husband and wife photography and videography duo that we have fallen in love with! Together, with his background and passion for film, and her enthusiasm for photography, they are able to produce some of the most unique work we have come across. Their love for what they do is apparent in every photo and video they produce. If you are interested in finding a team to handle all of your

visual content needs, we are confident that you will adore this couple just as

much as we have!

Taylor was raised in Washington State, and now lives in Orange County, California.Taylor’s passion for photography became very apparent to us when she explained that she is making herself available to brides in Washington, despite living in Orange County. She embraces each wedding as a special journey and unique adventure of its own, and looks forward to shooting many couples in the Seattle area this summer! Her light spirit and true passion are what set her apart. Her work not only allows her to unleash her creativity, but also to tell your story and express all the beautiful emotions you have on your special day.

Sometimes a bride has her own vision: perfectly planned and ready to execute. Other times, a bride may not yet know what her perfect day is meant to look like. No matter which bride you are, a wedding planner can

be a vital element to your wedding. As we scoured the city to find the best event planners in Seattle, we couldn’t help but marvel over Jen Leslie Events. Jen and her team work endlessly to make each and every wedding into a truly unique work of art. Weather you need someone to help coordinate the day of, or someone to be there with you from day one, Jen Leslie Events has you covered. If you are looking for someone with exceptional attention to detail to make your wedding just as unique as you are, you won’t find anyone better than Jen Leslie Events. You have our word for it!

Sweet Treats

7 Fun Wedding TrendsWhether you are looking for a budget friendly option or a completely unique alternative to a regular florist, getting your flowers from Pike Place is a great solution! Simply pick up several bouquets from Pike Place floral (they’re only $5!) the morning of you wedding and place in vases as centerpieces.

Have you ever gone to a wedding and not enjoyed the food? There is a simple solution to bad wedding food, just have a food truck! Many food trucks in the Seattle area are available for rent. It is a great alternative to have a caterer, and you can trust that the food will be to die for.

2Food Trucks

Sweet treat tables can be a fun way to have the grooms favorite cookie, the brides favorite lemon bars and grandma’s famous pie. Satisfy everyones sweet tooth craving and allow your guests to get to know you even better!

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This is not your mothers bouquet! If you are having a whimsical garden wedding consider asking your florist to leave the stems on your bouquet un-cut. A rough, leafy bouquet gives a very organic feel that everyone will be sure to notice.

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7 Fun Wedding TrendsOne of our favorite trends this year is assorted vases and tableware. And where do you need to go for this? Well a thrift shop of course. Using old bottles and vases gives a vintage look, and no one will have to know that you only spent pennies on the dollar - or you can tell everyone!

5 Mismatched Vases & Tableware

Mismatched bridesmaid dresses is a go-to trend. Once you pick a color scheme and a theme, let your bridesmaids pick their own dresses allowing them to choose one that fits their budget and their body. Plus, it saves you time and stress while giving your wedding a lighthearted mood.

Who says the bride should have all the fun? If you are looking for a way to spice up your grooms attire, check out wooden bow ties! They make for a great way to add a touch of rugged with a hint of manliness. The Two Guys Bow Tie always has a great selection to match any theme or color.

Mixed Bridesmaid Dresses

sEVEN

Look book photos by Spencer Wallace Photo

Survey Responses from Cedar and Lace Couples

76.2% say their wedding budget is $12,000 or less with the majority falling between $8,000 and $12,000.

The most challenging part of wedding planning was overwhelmingly stated as finding a venue; one that fits the budget and personality of both the bride and groom.

Average wedding size: 165 guests.

Most desired venue style: Old-world/vintage or a barn.

In our search to find the most unique local vendors in the Greater Seattle area, one name kept coming up: Bridesclub. If you have ever been to a bridal expo in the Seattle area or Hawaii you have most likely been a part of Bridesclub already! These wedding expos are an excellent place for brides to see hundreds of vendors in one place, gather ideas, and begin planning their special day. It can be time consuming to find the perfect vendors, and it can be even more time consuming to get in touch and begin talking about your vision. At a bridal expo you have the opportunity to talk to as many vendors as you desire, which can ultimately speed up your planning process. If you haven’t already been, we highly suggest that you put one of ithese upcoming expos on your calendar!

July 25-27, 2014 September 13-14, 2014 September 20-21, 2014

October 4-5, 2014October 8, 2014

January 3-4, 2015January 16-18, 2015January 24-25, 2015

March 21-22, 2015March 28-29, 2015

Hawaii Bridal Expo Tacoma Fall Wedding ExpoEverett-Lynnwood Fall ExpoBellevue Wedding ExpoThe Lucky Strike Bowl Open HouseTacoma Wedding ExpoHawaii Bridal Expo Everett-Lynnwood ExpoEverett-Lynnwood Spring ExpoTacoma Spring Wedding Expo

Upcoming Bridal Expos

F inding a venue that fits the budget and style tends to

be the most dificult thing. Here are our favorite unique venues in the Greater Seattle Area.

Abbotsford BarnBrookside at CovingtonCama Beach State Park

Camp LongChapel On Echo Bay

Colman ParkDiscovery Park

Dragonfly RetreatEnvironmental Services BuildingEuropean Elegance Mansion

Farm KitchenForest Park - Floral HallFort Worden State Park:

The Commons, Wheeler Theater, or Friends’ BarnGolden Gardens Park

Hamilton Viewpoint ParkHampton Hideaway

Herban Feast’s Sodo Park

Kitsap Memorial State Park Lafayette GardensLake Union CaféLicton Springs Park

Magnolia ParkMelrose Market

Meridian PlaygroundMount Baker BoulevardNatures Collection Place

Northwest Trek Wildlife ParkPeace Arch State Park

Riverbend RanchRobinswood House

Seattle Asian Art Museum Seward ParkThe Foundry

The Great Hall at Union StationThe Stables

Trinity Tree Farm Urban Light Studios

Volterra Drawing RoomVolunteer Park

Washington Park ArboretumWoodland Park Zoo

There is no mistaking that Christopher has true passion for what he does. Each floral design is created with great consideration that highlights the natural beauty of each flower. Once you give Christopher your details, simply leave it to him to make your dream come to life; You will definitely be delighted with a custom design. Christopher Flowers uses locally grown flowers, recycles whenever possible, and even composts green waste!

At the heart of Flora Laura is a commitment to provide only the freshest and most lush flowers available. By using flowers that are in season, they have been picked at just the right moment allowing Flora Laura to offer bouquets with great vitality and beauty. It is designer Laura’s goal to deliver each bride the flowers she has always dreamt of, be it lavish or simple. This is the place to go for the most vibrant flowers designed by florists who pay acute attention to detail.

Julia’s Floral is one of the most highly qualified florists around.Since childhood, owner Julia has always known she wanted to be a florist. Having fulfilled her dream, she is now available to fulfill yours! Julia is experienced, has countless “Best in Show” awards and competition ribbons, and several certificates from Phil Rulloda’s Southern California School of Floral Design. It is clear that Julia has a passion for what she does, and her work shows it. From the words of Julia, “Your wedding flowers should be as heavenly perfect as earthly possible.”

Our Favorite Florists

Our Favorite FloristsIf unique is your desire, look no further! Ring Around the Rose is everything you could ever need. Owner Lorie Britton exudes creativity in all aspects of life, from cooking all the way to glass blowing, and her work as a florist is no exception. Lorie uses combinations of flowers that not only appease the eyes, but also provide a unique texture and smell. This attention to detail make her a perfect florist for any bride who wants a one of a kind creation.

Nest is our go-to florist on Orcas Island! Whether you desire something simple, or something extravagant, Nest will create a custom arrangement emphasizing texture and color that fits your exact needs. When it comes to creative and unique arrangements, The Nest is a must see.

Triple Wren Farms is one of our favorite options for brides in the Pacific Northwest. Here, brides are given the opportunity to “buy-by-bunch”. This is a hands-on DIY approach that gives brides a very custom and budget-friendly option. Buy-the-bunch flowers are available from May-September and is a way for brides to order fresh cut flowers in bulk for bouquets, table décor, favors, etc. They are typically sold in 10-stem bunches, and are generally between $7.50-$9.50 per bunch. A consultation allows you to share your vision with the growers and choose from a range of different options. This is an excellent opportunity for brides to have a more hand-on approach, and create a completely unique wedding assortment. The cost savings are only a bonus!