Spiffy Stuff We Heart // Dapper Paper, The Blog.

VALENTINE TIME

2012-02-10T16:10:00.005-05:00

So I (Elizabeth) decided to hand make some valentines for special people in my life this year. These people include my grandmothers, parents, sister, a very special aunt and so on. I found this fantastic tutorial on Purl Bee, one of my fav sewing/craft sites. If you don't read it, do it. They make knitting and crochet and sewing hip.

All you need is embroidery thread, needle, scissors (& exact-o which we found to work the best for cutting the hearts out), cardstock (they used super cool neutral colors but I didn't have the time to track them down so I used white), some cute swatches of "valentiney" fabrics. I picked up some fabric quarters for 1.99 at Joanne's.

Pretty and inexpensive!

And here they are!

Do you hand make valentines?? It's so elementary school yet so cool. get into it.

HUNGER GAMES LOVES TYPOGRAPHY

2012-02-08T10:39:00.002-05:00

We spotted this marketing material that's being used to promote the upcoming Hunger Games film. How freakin' cool is this? We loved the books and are eagerly awaiting the movie, and seeing this makes it all the more exciting!

NEW TO THE SHOP: THE GENTLEMAN RULES PRINT

2012-01-18T16:23:00.005-05:00

Hey y'all! Introducing a new print to the shop; The Gentleman Rules print. Everyone needs a reminder from time-to-time. Stop by and pick one up!

INTRODUCING THE CITY LOVE PROJECT

2012-01-02T16:57:00.005-05:00

Hey Y'all! We hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! We're back in studio and excited to introduce a new print to the shop. This print is the first in a series of other city prints that we are coining the City Love Project. We are focusing on a handful of cities in the south including Nashville, TN, Austin, TX and Charleston, SC. We love Raleigh and are proud to call it home, so we wanted to pay homage to in our opinion, the greatest the city in America! Stop by the shop and pick one up for yourself, or let us know if you'd like a custom city print designed for yourself that isn't included in the series. Show some love to the city that you love!

NEW CUSTOM WEDDING INVITATION DESIGNS

2011-11-29T16:41:00.000-05:00

Hey, Y'all! It's been a while since we've showcased recent custom wedding designs, and we've finally come up from air after the spring/summer craziness and had the time and energy to photograph some portfolio pieces. Stop by our Etsy shop to see more!

HOT OFF THE PRESSES: CABIN FEVER MONOGRAM STATIONERY SET

2011-11-09T12:30:00.007-05:00

We love antlers. We love buffalo check. We are a little bit preppy. A little bit country. A little bit city. (i'm so close to going into a Marie and Donnie Osmond song I think...) So, naturally we were brainstorming that we wanted to combine all of these elements. So here is the outcome: a new set of monogrammed stationery! We named it Cabin Fever because it just has that mountain cabin feel but a little bit of city chic thrown in as well. These will make perfect gifts for friends and family (or a self gift to yourself for being awesome and writing people notes, justified purchase: you are doing something nice for others). So pop on over to the shop to check them out!

'TWAS A GOOD RUN

2011-11-08T21:29:00.001-05:00

Sometimes your coffee maker dies. And your day is really long and your motor skills are really bad.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

DAILY CANDY!

2011-11-04T16:20:00.005-04:00

We are excited that our new We Whisk You a Merry Christmas cards were featured in a Daily Candy feature called 56 Holiday Cards Worth the Price of a Stamp. Head on over and check it out! We are amongst some really great cards so we are honored to be included. They are available in the shop in packs of 10 so get some to send to all your friends and family and Whisk them a Merry Christmas!

LISTENING AND LOVING

2011-11-04T11:17:00.003-04:00

Are you listening to this? you should be. she. is. killing. it. Her last album did too and is excellent as well. Also, she looks so very cool.

3 YEARS

2011-11-01T21:47:00.001-04:00

Happy Anniversary to 1/2 of The Dapper Paper Co., my best friend and my true love.

-Posted by Elizabeth using BlogPress from my iPhone

NEW PRINT IN THE SHOP: GOOD MORNING TO YOU

2011-10-26T14:01:00.005-04:00

NEW print in the shop!

INSPIRATION TO REALITY: KATE AND SEAN

2011-10-19T11:54:00.008-04:00

Happy Wednesday y'all! Here is a recent custom invitation design we worked on for two awesome clients, Kate and Sean. They were really great to work with and let us have a lot of creative freedom. We let there wedding location direct the style and feel of the artwork and wanted to have that Arizona wigwam meets concert poster vibe. So, take a look at the inspiration board and photos of the custom design below! We hope it inspires you too!

Black and white photos and resort photos via Wigwam Resort and Spa | bird print, hatch show prints | Wigwam Motel photo with cars

NEW LOOK. SAME GREAT TASTE.

2011-10-18T16:59:00.000-04:00

Hey y'all! Introducing new branding for The Dapper Paper Co.! We've been hard at work and that means our own image and branding tactics have suffered for quite some time. But we've shoveled our way through the clutter so we could spend some quality time working on a new logo as well as photographing past projects for our Etsy shop and blog. We have lots in store and are excited about the fall/winter and 2012! Stay tuned!

RECENTLY PURCHASED...

2011-10-05T12:58:00.009-04:00

THIS rug! You like? I searched endlessly for a navy and white striped rug, to no avail. I even searched for a blue and white striped rug, nada. And I mean like consecutive evenly spaced lines.(and yes, I know that she makes them and killer ones at that. but that's not currently our rug pricepoint) I'm pretty particular ya'll, I studied interior design as well so when I have an idea in mind, i needs it. i wants it. Which, I miss designing interiors and am trying to creep back into that...

I liked this rug because yes, it has that chevron vibe, but it's a little "off". It's not exactly lined up perfectly, which I like. I intended it to be for the living room, but I found something I prefer for that I think so this bad boy is probably studio-bound. I'm on a rug kick right now, have you found any amazing ones lately??

REAL ESTATE WITHOUT THE SHOULDER PADS

2011-09-30T11:13:00.009-04:00

We were recently contacted by a realtor in SC (whoop whoop, my home state!) who wanted some branding. But, she did not want typical "realtor" branding (whew!). Mindy wanted something crisp, feminine yet masculine with a vintage spin. So here's what we came up with! We're working on more collateral pieces: business cards, magazine ad, banner ad and other cool promotional items. So, if you need great branding that stands out from the rest, contact us! We'd love to work with you!

NEW CARD ALERT: ANCHORS AWAY

2011-09-29T13:24:00.007-04:00

We just added these Anchors Away cards to the shop! If there is one thing that Chris and I are both obsessed with, it's stripes. We have to make sure we aren't that weird matchy couple that's dressed alike and both wearing similar stripe shirts, which has happened. oopsies. At any given time, we are typically both wearing stripes of some sort. Do you understand that we love stripes??? We also are fond of anchors, so we combined the two! We (heart) nautical. These are perfect for general correspondence and cool thoughts.

NEW PRINT ALERT

2011-09-28T12:53:00.014-04:00

Just added a new print to the shop: Love is Timeless. It is printed in a choice of autumn orange, cobalt blue or charcoal. Head on over, check it out and get one for your walls. Perfect by itself or part of a gallery wall!

STUDIO MUZAK

2011-09-28T12:25:00.003-04:00

Get on over and stream the new Feist album: Metals. It's musical happiness to my ears. Feist holds a special place in my heart: we walked out of our wedding ceremony to "I Feel It All." It was like movie magic. Here's the link and you can listen too!

SOUTHERN INSPIRED BARN WEDDING

2011-08-11T11:12:00.005-04:00

Hop on over to the blog Green Wedding Shoes and check out one of our recent custom wedding designs. Michelle and David had a fantastic Michigan barn wedding and you can check that out as well as the invite, rsvp, map and programs we created for them!

photo via Green Wedding Shoes

SNEAK PEEK

2011-08-04T16:34:00.010-04:00

We've been super-duper busy for the past few months and have shown nearly none of our work! That's all about to change. In the next few weeks, we are getting one of our great photographer friends, Geoff Wood, to help us photograph our portfolio to have it ready for your viewing pleasure! Until then, we wanted to give you a sneak peak of a view of the many invites we have been working on lately!

READING RAINBOW

2011-08-04T11:52:00.001-04:00

Currently Reading! Whatchu readin'?

JUST ADDED TO THE SHOP!

2011-07-26T16:23:00.008-04:00

The Tribe Has Spoken ya'll! Holler to the newest member of our shop- these hand illustrated tribal pattern cards! Mailed greetings are in, so dash on over (you there yet?!) to the shop and check 'em out! (We also created these patterns for another application and project for a friend so we'll have that posted in the future as well!)

DADDY'S GIRL

2011-06-19T22:51:00.001-04:00

Happy Father's Day! Love my dad, so blessed to have the father that I have!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

WELL I DO DECLARE, IT'S HOT

2011-06-17T14:56:00.004-04:00

A little peak at a few things we've been working on the past few days!
If u are interested in program fans or just fans to keep your guest cool (2nd photo) then we would love to create some for u! Contact us for details!

READING RAINBOW

2011-05-10T11:26:00.006-04:00

Pretty outstanding. When I finished reading it I was bummed because I grew really attached to these characters and felt like I knew them and cared about them. I guess that's what all really good books do to you. I am a sucker for anything set in the South and anything about women, especially strong and/or obstinate women, kindred personalities I guess. This book features all of the above.

The Help is set in the South, Mississippi to be exact, in the 1960's where segregation is still going strong but beginning to be questioned and pushed back on by a few types of people. But those that want to see it remain include white middle class women who have always had hired help and believe that "colored" people should remain separated away from them and their families yet they are fine with them raising their children and basically taking their place as mothers. The small-minded in this book are many, but the heroines are as well. These characters jump off the page. From the hired help like Aibeleen and Minny to the main character Miss Skeeter, these women are like friends that you are rooting for and want to sit with and drink a glass of iced tea and just talk about life and changing the world. Read this book. It will grow on you and you will feel like it's an old friend, I know I do.

RALEIGH TORNADO FUNDRAISER

2011-04-21T16:45:00.006-04:00

Did you hear about the tornadoes that struck NC recently? Well, not too far from us, in southeast/downtown Raleigh was struck pretty hard. Our friend Michelle Smith of Indie NC and Michelle Smith Design put together a fundraiser featuring items from local designers and our recipe cards are a part of it. Head on over to Indie NC Raleigh Tornado Fundraiser shop to purchase some awesome goods as well as support the clean-up of the Raleigh Boys and Girls Club who received alot of damage in the storm. 100% of the proceeds raised will help them get their club back and you will receive some stellar handmade items as well.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!

2011-04-13T12:51:00.004-04:00

I don't condone smoking: my dad has since quit, 'bout 20 years ago. But, he did look awfully cool in this photo...He is the best. Love him bunches. Yeah, I'm a daddy's girl. That's me up front, co-captaining that boat.

WE TUMBLE

2011-04-12T12:55:00.005-04:00

We've had it for a while just sittin' there and we decided to go ahead and set it up, so follow us on Tumblr for even MORE spiffy stuff we (heart).

READING RAINBOW

2011-04-12T10:15:00.017-04:00

About a month ago, I finished reading this book, Water For Elephants. Sorry, didn't keep up with reviews! I'll do better. I thought it was pretty fantastic. It reads like a classic to me. I was an English major in college, so I have read a lot of classics and, I lurve books and I love to read. The huz never did care for reading much but recently is getting into it more and more and he really likes this book. It reads easily, it's detailed so you feel like you are really a part of the story and it's pretty epic in a literary sense: the path of your life and how it shapes who you become. Another idea sticks out to me as well: many older people have incredible stories and past that we don't know about because we don't ask enough. The circus theme paired with the depression era is so interesting and enthralling as well as a bit dark and twisted. There is so much deception, poverty and corruption hidden behind something that was so glamorous and entertaining. The edition I own has several historical photos in it and I am just sucked in by the history of it all. I really enjoy the author Sara Gruen's writing style. It's funny because I had a conversation with a friend of ours about this book: I mentioned that when I read it, I would not have known the author was a woman, based on the language and style. It's a little gritty and rough around the edges to me. He immediately said, I thought it was a woman when I read it. Interesting...I would love to hear what you thought.

And yes, I will be seeing the movie. But, no, I didn't buy the book because of the movie, I had it already. But, yes, I think the movie looks pretty amazing and any preview (remember my love for movie trailers?!) that uses good music (Florence and the Machine) makes me want to see it, immediately. Also, any movie that has Christoph Waltz featured in it (which that casting is dead on with the character August in the book- I don't think they could have chosen anyone any better) has my attention. Please say you saw him in Inglorious Bastards, he. was. amazing. And yes, I am one of those people that has to read the book before I see the movie or when the I read the book, I just see the people in the movie and I can't stand that. I want to visually create the characters myself and I did not picture Reese Witherspoon in that role or really, gasp, Robert Pattinson. Casting is sometimes funny to me and I know it's about "dolla dolla billz, ya'll".

Have you read the book? Are you going to see the movie? Let's chat.

photo by Frederick W. Glasier found via Coilhouse magazine + blog

RECENTLY PURCHASED...

2011-04-09T14:40:00.012-04:00

...this necklace. Waiting to receive it and lovin' on so many more things in this shop, Edor. For so long I have always been into chunky statement pieces. Lately, I have been finding my love for subtle simplicity.

JUST GOT TICKETS TO SEE THESE GUYS IN JUNE...

2011-04-07T13:45:00.002-04:00

well, technically Matt Stevens got our tickets...and we need to pay him for them...which we might do...or not. j.k. matt and christin, we will pay you....50%. ... you're welcome.

STYLE OUR CLIENTS PRETTY

2011-02-28T15:03:00.010-05:00

Our monday just got better! Hop on over to Style Me Pretty today and check out photos from the gorgeous and oh so so sweet wedding of Amy and Michael! The invitation, witness poster, candy bar wrapper favors and "Amy and Michael" fabric banner we created are all featured. We also did a separate ceremony card that is not featured so we'll have to show you that soon! Show Amy and Michael some love as well as their ridiculously talented photographer, Kate Osborne.

LISTENING AND LOVING: ADELE

2011-02-25T10:53:00.005-05:00

I have liked Adele since she made her debut- nobody can deny the musical magic that is Chasing Pavements. But, with this album, Adele transitioned from my like category to my Lurve category. I lurve this album. It is a nod to another era of music. And interestingly enough motown aside, I can hear some country influence as well- as in old school country.

And also, if you don't feel some emotional excitement from hearing Rolling in the Deep or Rumor Has It or Set The Fire To Rain, you may want to get to your doctor immediately because you may suffer from something, I don't know what, but something. Not to mention, she covers The Cure: 'nough said.

Listen to this album, buy this album, dance to it, cry to it, smile to it, just soak it in. I think it's pretty incredible.

PUT A BIRD ON IT

2011-02-16T15:58:00.001-05:00

SNACK ATTACK! SNACK ATTACK!

2011-02-10T16:51:00.005-05:00

Yes, that's snack attack, not Zack attack: though both are important. Don't act like you don't know the reference either....

Anywho, current snack obsession: greek yogurt + diced fuji apples + sprinkle of cinnamon + honey + honey granola = apple pie yogurt. It's tasterific! (and shhhhh! it's healthy too!)

Get into it! What are you currently snackin' on??

BLOGLOVIN': FOLLOW US!

2011-01-31T11:33:00.003-05:00

Do you guys use bloglovin'? Well, if you do, go on ahead and...

Follow my blog with bloglovin

INSPIRATION TO REALITY: AMY & MICHAEL

2011-01-28T16:44:00.013-05:00

Happy Friday! woot! Wanted to close the week out with a custom design we recently created for the wedding of Amy and Michael. You may remember their inspiration board here. Well, this is the final outcome of their pieces which included a ceremony invite, reception invite, rsvp postcard, witness poster and candy bar wrappers (LOVE this idea for a favor!). We also created a handmade fabric banner with their names for them as well. Their wedding turned out so beautiful, fresh and the picture perfect backyard party. They even had mexican food (um, YUM). They were such a pleasure to work with! These loooovely photos are taken by the talented Kate Osborne and for more photos of the wedding visit Kate's blog.

(P.S we've got lots more custom designs to show you! ... stayed tuned!)

HAPPY MONDAY MUSIC

2011-01-24T11:13:00.002-05:00

Happy Monday! Here's a happy tune to make you smile. The video features mustaches, a party, an afro, bunting, and a lion costume, what's not to love? Love me some Camera Obscura

LOGO LOOKSIE

2011-01-19T13:57:00.006-05:00

This is a logo we recently designed for my family's new yogurt shop, Yogurt Lab! It's going to be located in Kannapolis, NC just outside of Charlotte. The sign company installed the storefront sign today and we wanted to share some images with you. We actually came up with the concept a few years ago and are excited to see it coming to life. We are going to be doing some cool branding pieces including t-shirts, business cards, and decor so stayed tuned....and, If you are in the area, make sure you stop by and fill up your cup! It's yummmmmmy!

GOLDEN FAVES

2011-01-16T20:50:00.005-05:00

Lovin' these:

(also Alexa Chung interviewing on the red carpet, but could find no pics). What were your favs??

CYBERMONDAY=15% OFF IN OUR SHOP!

2010-11-29T10:53:00.007-05:00

Happy Cyber Monday! We just couldn't pass up the craze of discounts and free shipping deals. So, stop by our shop and get 15% off all non-wedding items today only! Just enter CYBERMON at checkout. This includes recipe cards, holiday cards, calendars and more! Enjoy!

'TIS THE SEASON

2010-11-23T17:43:00.010-05:00

We know, we're a few days early. We are advocates of waiting til' after Thanksgiving for Christmas. But, since we'll be out of town for Thanksgiving, we wanted to go ahead and show you what we've been up to. We've been busy at work in the studio designing some Holiday cards! So here they are! Have a looksy! There's food punnery, there's pattern, there's elephants, there's color! What's not to love?! So head on over to our Etsy shop to purchase, and brighten up yours and someone else's season!

oh and Have a Happy Thanksgiving everyone! We know we have a lot to be thankful and grateful for this year and every year, no matter what.

JOYFUL GIVEAWAY!

2010-11-05T09:41:00.006-04:00

Happy Friday everyone!

Speaking of recipes and food, ....which we were yesterday...sort of.... (see previous post), today and today only (since each giveaway is only up for one day) we are part of the November Giveaway on one of my personal favorite foodie blogs, Joy the Baker! So head on over and comment TOO-day (see video below for pronunciation of that word) to win a set of each of our recipe card designs and get to cookin'!

oh and this:

we had this episode of SNL on our DVR and watched this skit everyday for like 3 months...i think our DVR was telling us to stop because it deleted it even though we had set it to not delete until we were ready.

FRESH TO THE SHOP

2010-11-04T20:23:00.004-04:00

We hope everyone is having a great week! We designed some fresh new recipe cards a while back and have been so busy we haven't had time to add them to our shop! These farmers market inspired recipe cards were created for a dinner party in which we designed the invitation to coordinate. We'll try and post that soon so you can see how it turned out! If you or someone you know would like a set, head on over to our shop. Bon appétit!

HAPPY ANNI' TO US!

2010-11-01T17:30:00.004-04:00

Two years ago today, we said "i do" to each other. It's pretty awesome being married to your b.f.f. We've laughed till we couldn't breath, fought till we couldn't yell and loved more than we knew we could. I love you, Chris, thanks for the past two years, you've made me a better gal.

BOO AND YAY

2010-10-29T13:27:00.010-04:00

Happy Friday ya'll!

What are you guys doing for Halloween weekend? Tonight we are hitting up a ridonculously tasty restaraunt, Bloomsbury Bistro, which luckily, due to the perfect weather, we can walk to! Halloween time we typically chillax and watch a scary movie, this year, it shall be Beetlejuice.

Also, We very excited to be featured today in Style Me Pretty's Newsletter - We have had a very busy morning with inquiries and orders so we are very grateful for that!

ON THE HORIZON...

2010-10-27T17:30:00.002-04:00

Sorry for the lack of posts ya'll. We've been super busy in the studio but still love you. Here's a little peak at something coming at you in the next week or so!

NEW DESIGN ALERT: CONCERT ANYONE?

2010-09-30T13:32:00.007-04:00

This is a poster we designed and just finished up for some friends of ours: Mike Simons and Thad Cockrell. Leagues is their new venture together with a few other friends. So if you are in the Nashville area on Saturday, we totally recommend you check it out, you won't be sorry. We love music posters (obvi) so if you are a band and need one or know a band, contact us!

SWEET & SUCCULENT(S)

2010-09-15T11:04:00.007-04:00

Here is the inspiration for one of our latest custom wedding designs. The couple is Amy and Michael (one of their engagement photos is shown in the top upper left corner- um, so sweet!).

So check out our inspiration and then stayed tuned for the reality! And for more of Amy and Mike's sweet engagement session, head on over to Kate Osborne Photography.

Engagement photo, dessert table via Once Wed, Anthro wallpaper, ring pillow, anthro catalog- march 2010, The Surrey House, the smog shoppe

MY LITTLE PONY?

2010-09-09T13:19:00.009-04:00

As I was scrolling through Anthropologie's sweater section today, my eye was caught by something and my. mind. was. blown., upon seeing this little number. Now, i'm decidedly on the side of the fence that finds this a disaster and would never wear it, and I'm all about interesting and quirky things so it's not like I don't get kitschy or ironice, but this....

And might I add, that I'm pretty much all "if Anthro is selling it, i'm buying it" so this is not a characteristic post for me. at all.

what side the fence you on?

OUR HOUSE (IN THE MIDDLE OF OUR STREET)

2010-09-02T17:50:00.015-04:00

Sorry for the lack of posts lately folks! We have been super busy with custom orders (which we will be photographing many of them and posting them in the coming weeks), but we were also preparing our house to be FO Sale, which it is now. So, we thought we would offer a little sneak peak into our space and our cozy little bungalow as well as Dapper Paper headquarters. If you know anyone who wants to live in a super-cool historic part of Raleigh, point them our way!

Have a Happy Friday and a great Labor Day weekend!

MAD LOVE

2010-08-11T13:00:00.016-04:00

Our latest inspiration was our friends Josh and Lizzy (note their adorable photo, above, taken by the talented Lashelle Chappell, at their actual engagement: yes, Josh proposed with the hanging letters= A-Dorable). We play with Josh in a band at our church, Vintage 21, and Lizzy volunteers with the children there (which is how they met and you can read more about that and see more photos from their precious engagement here).

As for their wedding, they are having their ceremony at an awesome renovated church in downtown Raleigh, All Saints Chapel (interior shown above). They described their wedding vision as a total party and a celebration; they wanted something fun as well as city chic, seeing as their reception will be in a killer space downtown as well. They also had a bold and fun color palette: fuschias, pinks, black and white (shown above). We got one phrase from Josh, a lover of cigars and fine whiskey: Mad Men. Lizzy wanted a bit rustic, vintage, Anthropologie. So our task as designers was to mix the rustic with the chic-as-all-get-out magic of Mad Men. Stayed tuned for the final product as Lizzy sent the invites out this week!

Raleigh Skyline, bird image, engagement photo, cake photo by Jen Arthur, Jcrew website, All Saints Chapel, Mad Men photo

LISTENING AND LOVING: ARCADE FIRE

2010-08-09T09:37:00.010-04:00

It's Monday, so you may have the blahs! So here is some music for the week! Love me some Arcade Fire (who are on the killer label located in Chapel Hill, Merge Records, which includes She & Him, Spoon, Camera Obscura, M. Ward, The Shout Out Louds, the Rosebuds and more: our heart is proud). After hearing 4 tracks online before The Suburbs was released, I was totally anxious to get the entire thing! It did not disappoint. And the artwork... you know we are looooovin' the artwork.

Now, a friend of ours felt the same way about this as he did about The National's latest release: nothing stands out, it doesn't have the hooks. I agree that it's different from their previous and there isn't a "Wake Up" any where on it and it maybe not as "catchy" but I'm still loving every minute of it.

And for all you vinyl fans out there, from their website: "So for the new album, we had each of the 16 tracks mastered to a 12 inch lacquer and then transferred back to digital format so that the CD and digital version of the record sound just like the vinyl." Nice moves. Arcade Fire, I can't quit you.

MY RETRO MODERN HEART

2010-08-04T10:31:00.017-04:00

Happy Wednesday! For our inspiration today we have some engagement shots from one of our most recent custom orders we are working on. The couple is Mark and Gaea: a totally fun and zany couple who are getting married in Salt Lake City and want their invites to match their personalities. So the key inspiration for them is their killer engagement photos done by Pepper Nix Photography which are fantastically retro, quirky and also beautiful. We wanted to share with you guys some of the things we were inspired by for this design and stayed tuned for the reality from this inspiration!

poster, book cover, Salt Lake City photo, print, all engagement shots: Pepper Nix Photography

MONDAY WITH KITTENS

2010-08-02T14:24:00.005-04:00

Since it's Monday, but almost done-day, here is a little video to make you smile. We first saw this video on The Soup (one of our ALL-time fav shows of ALL time) and we laughed so hard, so in case you haven't seen it, here it is. We don't have kids yet, but hopefully they will do things like this:

SPIFFY JEWELRY WE HEART: THE ORANGE PANDA

2010-07-26T10:04:00.011-04:00

Happy Monday everyone. Hope you had fantastic weekends! We spent ours in Wrightsville Beach at my parents condo with them, my sister, and my brother and sister-in-law and my 2 ridiculously cute nieces!

And I have something to share with you to make this monday more bearable. Do ya'll love jewelry?! Um, I do. And I would say probably 50% of mine is the mastermind of my lovely jewelry-making aficionado of a sister, Christine. So it is with grand joy that I announce the recent launch of their fun-to-the-max website, The Orange Panda. The Orange Panda is the work of my sister and our friend Sarah Goin. And ya'll, if you want some awesome unique and original jewelry, they are your go-to source. Everything has a very organic handmade feel mixed with their eye for color and creativity and mutual love of all things hip and stylish. Each piece is truly one-of-a-kind.

They also specialize in custom jewelry so it is the perfect thing for a wedding party! My sister designed my bridesmaids' jewelry (which in turn was their gift: 2 birds, one stylish stone). She also created a bracelet for me for my wedding day which was my something blue. One of our friends had them design broaches and earrings for all of her bridesmaids so the possibilities are endless and they are pieces you can wear long after the wedding is over!

So head on over to their website to check out what they are about as well as a portfolio of some of the pieces they have created. And also check out their Etsy shop which features their collection of every-day jewelry that you can purchase! Be sure to follow them on Twitter for updates on the shop and new pieces!

COOLEST COVER EVER?

2010-07-16T10:11:00.005-04:00

Happy Friday ya'll! Angus and Julia Stone are capturing my heart right now...you can listen to more of their tunes on their Myspace page but for now, check this out. Olivia Newton and John Travolta should be proud.

WHEN YOU'RE GOOD, YOU'RE GOOD

2010-07-15T10:28:00.007-04:00

We've told ya'll how much we love Phoenix, a lot. Our friend (and photographer of choice), Geoff Wood, showed us this live performance they did for NPR. It just proves, the good ones can do it unplugged and still have the same energy and utter awesomeness. Also, we get to hear their french accents, sometimes I forget they are in fact, french. Oh, except for their ridiculously chic man-style.

SPIFFY AD AND ARTIST WE HEART

2010-07-07T09:59:00.013-04:00

Hope you all had a relaxing 4th of July weekend! We were at the beach where we enjoyed good food, relaxation, some kayaking and family time. Whilst laying out on the beach reading my magazines, I noticed this awesome Sherwin Williams ad. I have been seeing the series lately and each time I become more and more fascinated. Using paper paint chips to create items is just brilliant. And of course the paper art was created by the ever growing-in-fame paper sculpter, Matthew Sporzynski. You may know him from his amazing work in Real Simple (a few samples above) . The Sherwin Williams ad campaign was created by some of our local rockstars in Durham, McKinney. Chris and I actually have friends who work there and who have worked there so we are always excited to see any work they put out. I think this ad campaign shows some true smarts! And there's more, to see all of the campaign including the animated tv spots, check it out here.

SNEAK PEAK: CURRENTLY WORKING ON

2010-06-29T09:28:00.000-04:00

Here's a look at a few things we are currently working on: a birthday invite and a wedding invite. We are SO excited to show you the full projects so, stay tuned!

RED VELVET PANCAKES

2010-06-28T10:49:00.000-04:00

So here in the South, Red Velvet is a way of life. I always remember my grandmother making it for any gathering or party. She still makes it to this day on Christmas day. It is by far my favorite cake. I think it's the unidentifiable flavor (which is really that touch of cocoa that is just shy of "chocolate") and the cream cheese icing (which i believe cream cheese only improves anything it touches-sweet or savory).

Therefore, when I saw a recipe for red velvet pancakes on The Kitchy Kitchen, I knew we were destined to make and adore them. And, we did. Let me just tell you, we have dubbed these "the best pancakes ever". The batter is thick and cake-like versus the thinner pancake batters of most and when you pair it with a marscapone or cream cheese dollop and maple syrup, it's like magic on a plate. And it's not too sweet which I love, but off course you can heighten the sweet with more syrup if you like. I love marscapone, but I almost prefer cream cheese in sweet recipes, so I made adjustments with that to keep the more traditional taste of red velvet. Either way you choose, these will blow your pancake mind. Give them a try, it is the perfect weekend breakfast! Just thinking about it almost makes me forget it's Monday!

(Adapted from The Kitchy Kitchen)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons white sugar
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 large egg, lightly beaten
3/4 buttermilk
1/4 cup creme fraiche or sour cream
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Mascarpone Spread:
4 oz softened mascarpone *(First time i mixed 1/2 cream cheese, 2nd I used 4 oz cream cheese)
2 oz creme fraiche *(I used sour cream because I had it on hand)
2 tablespoons white sugar *(I probably did closer to 1-1/2 T I like things less sweet)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest *( I used a squeeze of lemon juice for a smoother texture)

In a large bowl whisk together the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl whisk together the egg, buttermilk, and creme fraiche/sour cream,melted butter, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Add them together and whisk just until combined. A little lumpy is fine. Heat a frying pan or griddle over medium high heat. When hot add butter or oil to grease, followed by a small scoop of the batter. Wait for the pancakes to bubble (2-3 minutes), flip and cook for a minute or two more. Meanwhile, mix all of the ingredients in the mascarpone spread together, and use to garnish the pancakes with some maple syrup. Enjoy!

SOFIA IS GOING TO DO IT AGAIN

2010-06-25T10:38:00.011-04:00

Do you love Sofia Coppola like I do? Lost in Translation was a revelation for me in film. But I think the music gets me along with the movie. Loving music like I do, her movies combine the best of both. I still can't get over the perfection of the Marie Antoinette soundtrack and it's juxtaposition with the time period it was paired with.

I am also totally addicted to movie trailors. I get wrapped up in them, I watch them repeatedly, I get emotional. And i do NOT skip them at the movies. In fact, I make sure to get there early so that I can see everyone of them. And I frequent Apple Trailers to watch up and coming ones. One of my dream jobs has always been to be a music supervisor for films and tv. I just think about music in terms of when it should happen in life. So, if ya'll know anyone that needs some music supervising, holler at me.

But, back to reality. I will be seeing this movie. And, I will drag Chris with me. And I will be SO excited to see or hear Sophia's boyfriend Thomas Mars, lead singer of one our favs, Phoenix. I'm expecting very good things. I mean, the trailor got me emotional. (I'm such a sucker for life moments combined with good tunes)

And as designers as well as musicians, we love posters of any kind. And we're loving this one.
Happy Friday ya'll!

A HAPPY FATHER'S DAY BIRTHDAY

2010-06-21T14:26:00.007-04:00

Hope you had an awesome weekend everybody! It was my birthday yesterday. I can tell I'm getting older because I seriously have to really think about how old I am when people ask (am I 26? or am I 27? wait, i'm 27, no wait, I'm 26). I kid you not when I say someone asked my age recently and not only did I have that conversation in my head, but I had it out loud. And I think rather than sympathizing with me, they definitely thought I was a. a wee bit crazy or b. not too bright.

Well, now I can say I'm 27, whether I want to or not (It's seems like just yesterday was my 17th birthday when my friend Erin and I spent the whole year quoting Josie Gellar in Never Been Kissed, "I'm 17, I'm 17...I'm 17"). Chris and I spent the weekend with my family in Charlotte eating good food, more good food, momma's homemade chocolate cake with peanut butter icing and enjoying time with my mom, dad, sister, brother, sister-in-law, and one of my two nieces. When we arrived back on Sunday, Chris gave me this card that he made me, along with some fantabulous other gifts! So, if you need a Birthday card, we have just added it to our Etsy shop.

My birthday, being on June 20th, has occasionally fallen on Father's Day and this year it did again. Being a Daddy's girl, I personally think my dad is the greatest, hardest working, funniest dad in the universe. It was very nice sharing my birthday with a day that celebrates him because without him, I wouldn't have a birthday. So hope ya'll enjoyed your days with your dads or remembering your dads or loving the men who you consider your dads.

NEW TO THE SHOP

2010-06-15T13:53:00.009-04:00

As we mentioned yesterday, we created some paper goods for a wedding inspiration shoot with Leila of Olive Juice Photography and Erin of Dandelion and Grey for The Inspired Creations Contest hosted by The Sweetest Occasion and Elizabeth Anne Designs. Thank you everyone for your sweet comments about the entry, it was such a joy working with Erin and Leila!

Well, we just wanted to let you know that we added the recipe cards and "Hey Good Lookin'" print to our Etsy shop. So they are now available for purchase! The recipe cards are sold blank so you can give them as gifts, keep track of your own recipes, or have us customize them as favors for a wedding or party!

INSPIRED CREATIONS CONTEST

2010-06-14T08:49:00.011-04:00

We were so excited to work with the super-talented Erin of Dandelion and Grey and also the super-talented Leila of Olive Juice Photography on an entry for The Inspired Creations Contest put on by The Sweetest Occasion and Elizabeth Anne Designs. So head over to The Sweetest Occasion and check out our Southern Breakfast Buffet entry for which we created escort cards, food labels, a few prints and some sweet recipe cards. We had a blast working with Erin and Leila (from across the country anyways- i'm sure it would have been even more fun in person girls!)

LISTENING AND LOVING: BAND OF HORSES

2010-06-11T12:48:00.011-04:00

You know how you have those bands/artist that when they have a new album coming out, you buy it no matter what. You don't even need to listen to it because they are one of "your" bands.

Well, Band of Horses is one of mine. As a long time fan, I always know, whatever they put out, I'm loving. And their latest album is no exception.

This is the music that southern summers and road trips were made for. Hollow sounds, sleepy and soft melodies and a hint of southern twang. All in all, it's my perfect music.

Not to mention, Chris and I have seen them live a few years ago, and they totally produce. A sign of a true band or artist, and beards and lots of plaid don't harm the cause either. They also did a cover of Them Two's "Am I a Good man" that's pretty mind-bottling (please say you know this movie reference and know that I know it's mind-boggling), especially if you love the blues and motown. Check it out here.

Happy Friday!

WE'RE HEARTIN': VINTAGE TEA TINS

2010-06-10T14:43:00.008-04:00

Chris and I bought an old tea tin at a thrift store a few years ago. It was a vintage "Darjeeling Tea" and I died over the packaging (like the teal one shown above) and also that I loved the movie (and any movie by Wes Anderson) The Darjeeling Limited.

But, since then, it's been sitting around as just an object. I am an interior designer also, and one of my pet peeves are things that don't serve a purpose. Even though we do have a few items around our house like that, I just like the majority of things to be sentimental or purposeful. Anyways, lately I have been seeing vintage tea tins as containers for flowers, and i'm LOVING it.

It's gorgeous and original for a wedding and perfect for your house or a dinner party.

I know what I'm doing with that tea tin now!

photos (clockwise): Style Me Pretty, Style Me Pretty, Domino Magazine (R.I.P), Martha Stewart, Darjeeling Tea canister, Zucchero on Flickr, ffffound.com

OUR SPIFFY CITY: RALEIGH, NC

2010-06-09T14:13:00.006-04:00

We love our city. And, in case you are unfamiliar with the capital of North Carolina and our hometown, here is a cool and fun video entitled "How to Make it in Raleigh" that provides a little insight into the vibe and spirit of this city.

Throwing a little hometown pride your way. So ya'll catch it, okay??

How to Make it in Raleigh from William Hardy on Vimeo.

video found via one of our local news blogs, New Raleigh

SPIFFY PACKAGING

2010-06-08T11:46:00.007-04:00

So, I'm not a huge potato chip fan. Since I try to be healthy, I typically don't buy the full fat chips but I don't like fake food so I buy the all natural reduced fat chips. And, for SOME unknown reason, no company makes salt and vinegar in a reduced fat chip. Can someone explain this to me? There is no fat in vinegar and chips already have salt so...um....hello? I did recently get a craving for chips after watching Larry David eat them in an episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm (yes, Chris says I'm very influenced by what I see, so hello advertisers, i'm your target market!)

Needless to say, when I saw this packaging for Hairy Bikers potato crisps, I was struck. How cool is it? But even more so, um, look at the flavors? Lemon and Olive Tagine! Prosciutto and blue cheese! Prawn with coconut! for real? Is this real real life?

Has anyone had these? I have never seen them around here, but I think they may change my mind, make me want chips and not care if they are reduced fat or not.

photo via TheDieline

LISTENING AND LOVING: BROKEN BELLS

2010-06-04T09:27:00.006-04:00

As a long time fan of The Shins, i'm talking before Garden State (even though it's pretty much one of my top 5 movies), I was eagerly awaiting something new from them. Instead, I hear tale they have basically disbanded. BUT, all is not lost. James Mercer, the lead singer of The Shins, has paired with Danger Mouse and produced musical magic. So you get the quirky depth of The Shins mixed with the rollicking and inventive beats of Danger Mouse. It's win, win so check it out. Not to mention, I'm a little mesmerized by the cover art.

oh and Happy Friday!

SPIFFY NEW SONG AND DANCE

2010-06-03T09:41:00.007-04:00

Do ya'll watch Late Night with Jimmy Fallon? We did when it first aired, but haven't really kept up regularly. I happened to stumble on this episode and this song and it's just kind of magical, and totally random. But, Chris and I can't stop singing it (but me thinks he doesn't find it humorous when I mimic the blowing into his hair bit, he reacts similarly to the girl in the audience, without the smile).

I have always found Jimmy Fallon to be funny and watch out for Jake Gyllenhaal (hello, bandana, jumpsuit, high tops and karate kicks), he is not afraid to be goofy.

GEOFF WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY

2010-05-27T09:32:00.004-04:00

Today we bring you Geoff Wood, who's not only a force to be reckoned with in the photography circuit, but also a good friend to Elizabeth and I. And he offered us large amounts of cash so we couldn't resist sharing him with you. Last week, Geoff offered his fine services to us and we shot some really cool promo photos for Dapper Paper. It was a lot of fun and we'll be posting those photos in the next week or two.

Geoff and I have a lot in common, and sadly one of those being we have fallen victim to the corporate world and long for a more a creative story in our lives. Geoff, along with another good friend of ours, Thad, shot our wedding and we were blown away with how the photos turned out (See photos 1-4). These guys know their stuff, and resist getting stuck in the world of trends and put their own stamp on their work. Geoff's been featured in regional and national publications and has worked with the best. And if you're mind isn't fully blown after eyeballing these (um, there's a photo of the National), head on over to his site for more. You won't be disappointed. And be sure to check out our interview with Geoff at the bottom of the post. Enjoy!

So Geoff, tell us a little about yourself.

Well, I'm a commercial and editorial photographer. But first and foremost I'm a husband to a beautiful and creative wife, Regan, and a father to a hilarious and smack-me-in-the-face cute little girl named Gibson.

And how did you find your way into photography?

I've always liked cameras, even from a young age. My friend and I used to buy those disposable underwater cameras and take pictures of ourselves surfing. In college I "studied" graphic design and advertising, eventually taking a photography and printing class as an elective. But still it was just sort of something fun to do. It wasn't until 5 years later, on a trip to Ireland, that it really hit me how much I actually enjoyed making photographs. From then on I started taking my camera to Kings, The Cat's Cradle or wherever to photograph bands, all the while working as a graphic designer. And if I forgot the camera my friends would really come down on me. Looking back, I really owe them a great deal for seeing something in me and pushing me toward it.

Eventually, I started working as an art director on photography shoots. Instead of hanging back at craft services, I'd find myself quizzing the photographer or his assistant on lights, lens choices and what not. And at times lending a hand during the set up. In my opinion it was better than assisting, cause I was right there in the middle of the action. So I started picking up my own photography jobs here and there. Then on a flight home from Italy, 3 years ago, I decided I had had enough and wanted to make a go at shooting professionally. It was the best decision ever. There are ups and downs, for sure, but I love being behind the camera and creating something I'm proud of.

What makes your work stand out?

This question is always on my mind. There's so many good photographers out there. In Raleigh alone, the photo community has an impressive roster and I'm excited that I'm getting to know more and more shooters. Locally, I really admire Charles Harris and have looked to him for a lot of advice. On a broader scope there's guys like Jeremy Cowart, Nick Onken, Norman Jean Roy and David Bean just to name a few. So the question for me becomes, what do I need to improve in order to stand with this crowd.

I guess to answer your question more directly - eventually, I had to come to a place where I trusted my creative eye. That, combined with my design background, I think I have a good understanding of concept, color and space.

What's your inspiration? Where does it come from?

Inspiration comes from just about anywhere. Traveling is a big inspiration for me. As you can see I make big decisions while I am traveling. I love the ocean and that shows up in my work a lot. It also comes from other photographers, hanging out and talking shop with them. Film and cinematography were and still are a big influence. I've always wanted to shoot something that looked like it belonged in movies like Amelie or CQ. Or position a group of people like director Akira Kurosawa did in the movie High and Low. I once assisted on a still shoot where the photographer was using the big movie lights. Like the Arri lights that will melt your hand off if you're not careful. That was pretty amazing and I hope to incorporate that into my style. Ultimately though, I think inspiration comes from being around and surrounding myself with creative people and being in community with others.

All photos ©2010 Geoff Wood

SPIFFY STUFF WE WANT: LOST POSTERS

2010-05-25T11:22:00.022-04:00

We are just not ready to let go of Lost yet (sidenote: we have mixed emotions regarding the finale- no, i wasn't expecting all my questions answered, i just can't figure out the logistics of the side-ways life in relation to current life and the island- i have been thinking and analyzing it since but I thought the finale was beautiful and emotional for sure.)

So, anyways, needless to say, we got pretty excited to see these totally awesome posters by designer Ty Mattson. On his blog, he says that he was working on an invite for a Lost season premiere party he was having and then ended up creating 8 different designs because he had so many ideas. Pretty brilliant. You can check out all of the versions on his blog here. Oh, and obviously abc got wind of these fanastic designs, they are available for purchase at the Lost Store on abc's website.

WE'LL BE LOST WITHOUT YOU, LOST.

2010-05-21T21:48:00.017-04:00

We are about to go over to our friends Matt and Christin's house to watch the SERIES finale of Lost! It's been a good run guys and I'm proud to say I have been with you sense the beginning. 6 Years ago the family and I tuned into the first episode of Lost. I knew it would be awesome because I was a fan of Alias and Felicity. In case you weren't aware, Mr. Abrams was responsible for that little piece of television magic as well.

Now, answer some questions and wrap this up! And no more of my favorites better die (i'm talking about the waterworks I couldn't control with Jin and Sun...maybe they are really alive in the real universe...or the alternate real...or whatever. I'm holding out hope.)

Goodbye dear friend. We can't believe this is the end. I'm 94.5% sure I'll shed a tear, or lots. We will miss watching you.

Will you be watching?

OUR MIX TAPE LOVE

2010-05-21T20:44:00.003-04:00

Amma (with her sharp British wit and sarcasm) over at Beyond/Beyond (her fantastic blog with lots of wonderful wedding inspiration and eye candy!) asked us (even though she has a love/hate relationship with us*) to write a guest post for her "Mixtape Love" wedding mix: a weekly post that consists of a guest and their pick for six songs that are perfect for a wedding. So, we used songs from our wedding (and a few extras) that we love! Head on over there to check out our mix and learn a little about the music at our wedding as well as some songs that mean something to us.

*To better understand her Love/Hate relationship with us, check out this previous post from Amma!

GEEK PRIDE: BOOK LOVE

2010-05-17T09:43:00.009-04:00

I just spotted this in the new Real Simple. Because as much as I love reading books, I love looking at them (and smelling them...anyone? no? that's weird? okay). So, what's a close second to reading a book? wearing one as a shirt. Out of Print Clothing must agree. Similar to Toms business model, the company claims "For each shirt we sell, one book is donated to a community in need through our partner Books For Africa." So you get a cool shirt and someone else gets the possibility of a lifetime of imagination.

Perfect for those of us who do judge books by their cover.... in the literal sense, not in terms of people.

Check it out and tell me what your favorite one is? And which one you would love to see (helloooo Pride and Prejudice please!)

EATING AND LOVING: ASPARAGUS

2010-05-11T16:20:00.004-04:00

So, they may be heading out of season, but we totally enjoyed the JUNK out of asparagus from our local farmers market. We LOVE roasted asparagus with scrambled eggs and parmesan cheese (top right photo which also featured leftover steak, for real, get IN to that.). We also made a grilled pizza (yes, grilled. it was the first time i had done it and man, it works) with asparagus, caramelized onion, sundried tomatoes and fontina cheese. And the May issue of bon appétit featured a fettuccine with peas, asparagus and pancetta on the cover which we made (with home-made fettuccine-i'll blog about my recent foray into pasta making soon) that was totally delicious.

If you don't like asparagus, I really recommend you try it fresh and not from the grocery store! It is SO much sweeter and more tender and well, just plain magical. I feel that way about any fruit or vegetable from the farmers market vs. the grocery store: there is just no comparison. And it is only a good thing to support your local agriculture!

What are you loving to eat right now? And do you visit your local farmers market?

FROM INSPIRATION TO THE REAL DEAL

2010-05-11T14:59:00.015-04:00

When we design custom wedding invitations, we like to find out a little about the clients as people and as a couple as well as the style and feel of their wedding. So Sarah sent us their adorable engagement photos and then we knew from looking at those that they had fun personalities.

Sarah sent us a few inspiration boards she had seen and we briefly glanced at this for the rustic and classic style she was going for, but we focused mostly on the only other inspiration she sent us: a screen shot from Bilbo Baggins birthday party in Lord of the Rings. She sent this because she loved the feel and the festive nature of the event and said she wanted her reception to be like this! The first thing we noticed form this shot was the banner that was hanging from the trees and the overall light-hearted festive appearance of the party.

After asking Sarah what type of decor she was having (various shapes and sizes of antique vases, bottles and jars with various groupings of flowers in them), and the type of flowers (some peonies, other flowers, and the rest were wildflowers), we honed in on the wildflower concept. She also mentioned a scene from the movie Atonement where Kiera Knightly's character is carrying a vase of wildflowers and she loved the feel of this (As you can tell, Sarah loves movies). I knew exactly what scene she was talking about (hello, how beautiful is that movie?) so I pulled an image for wildflower inspiration. So we illustrated various wildflowers with detailed line drawings and we combined this with silhouetted flowers to add variety.

For the RSVP we wanted to take the feel of the invite and translate it into a vintage floral pattern with an almost fabric-like look, to give it that sweet southern feel seeing as Chris and Sarah are getting married in Tennessee and are both southerners.

I think the best part of this was Sarah's reaction when she saw them! She sent us this scene from Raising Arizona because it best described how she felt about them.

CHRIS & SARAH'S INVITATIONS REVEALED!

2010-05-07T09:27:00.001-04:00

Ellie at Mint was kind enough to feature our custom invitations for Chris & Sarah. So head on over there and check them out and be sure to show her some love, too!

Here is a preview! Check out more photos at Mint!

FOODIE DREAM COME TRUE

2010-05-06T09:07:00.008-04:00

We were pleasantly surprised to stumble upon our "All Thyme Favorite" card on Bon Appétit's daily blog a few days ago. Ya'll know we love to cook and eat and Bon Appétit is one of my favorite cooking magazines, so it's pretty much exciting as all get out for us. The post is called "6 Fun Greeting Cards for Food-Lovers" so head on over and check it out!

WATCHED AND LOVED: THE YOUNG VICTORIA

2010-05-05T11:38:00.005-04:00

"you're the only wife I've got or ever will have. You are my whole existence, and I will love you until my very last breath."

How lovely was this movie?! I finally watched it. I have seen a lot of period pieces (and imagined myself in a lot of period pieces...did i type that, oh, i'm sorry, you weren't supposed to know that). What I loved most about their relationship in this movie was the way they interacted after they were married: it was so real. I loved when he tells her "For pity's sake, smile, woman. Anyone would think we had quarreled. " If you are married, or even just a part of a family, for that matter, you know you have to just do this sometimes.

And I think the part that choked me up most was one of the final scenes (possible spoiler alert but not really). It was the ending when it flashed across the screen that Albert died at age 42 and Victoria had his clothes laid out every day till she died at 81. That, is romantic love and that is all at once heartbreaking and beautiful.

CRUIZIN'

2010-05-04T09:23:00.005-04:00

If I had this bike, i would CRUIZE! so fast....

how sick is Liberty of London?! We bought the containers for flour, sugar, etc and two coffee mugs (which make me feel SO british when I drink hot tea out of them- i'm such an anglophile).

Have you bought any of their target goods?

Liberty of London for Target via kaboodle.com

LISTENING AND LOVING: THE NATIONAL

2010-05-03T14:49:00.004-04:00

We've been fans of The National for some time now and their latest album is NO exception. I actually may prefer it the most?! Maybe because it features a collaboration with another of my favorites: Sufjan Stevens. Not to mention, the album cover (we ♥ some album cover art here at Dapper Paper).

The album does not come out until May 11th (for real?!) but until then, you can stream it for free here.

Let me know what you think!

OH SO BEAUTIFUL FEATURE

2010-05-03T11:48:00.005-04:00

We are Oh So excited to be featured on the blog Oh So Beautiful Paper today! Thanks for showcasing our "All Thyme Favorite" card and some of our wedding invites! If you love all things paper, you will love this blog!

SNEAK PEEK...

2010-04-30T14:11:00.003-04:00

Here's a sneak peek at Chris and Sarah's custom invitations! We photographed the entire package today and and are looking forward to revealing the photos soon. Happy weekend!

A LOVELY FEATURE

2010-04-29T14:06:00.006-04:00

SOOOO excited to be featured today over on Melissa's fantastic blog The Loveliest Day! Pop on over and check out our feature and her LOVELY blog! Thanks Melissa!

THE BOAT THAT ROCKED: PIRATE RADIO

2010-04-28T11:57:00.012-04:00

"And the bride is blushing now as the groom is gazing into her eyes. You can almost see Cupid fluttering his wings above their heads...no, that was a seagull"

It's fun, it's bright, it's 60's and it's rock n' roll. Get into it!

Bunting banner: Giggleberry Creations, Girl in dress: Style Me Pretty, Dress: Anthropologie, Flower hair pins: Whichgoose, Pirate Radio photo: Scene-Stealers, Tablescape: Once Wed, Earrings: The Orange Panda, Julian Casablancas: Threads, Urban Wood Type invitation: Dapper Paper, Sgt Pepper album cover, Pirate Radio photo, Andy Warhol art, Couple in Submarine photo: Max Wanger

WATCHING AND LOVING: 9 BY DESIGN

2010-04-22T09:05:00.006-04:00

Meet Bob and Courtney Novogratz and their 7, yes 7, kids (who, by the way, Chris and I decided will end up being the most creative kids in the world, just look at them-hello!). Bob and Courtney have made a name for themselves by "flipping" houses. But, they refer to it more as buying houses, renovating and designing them, living in them and then selling them (and by selling them, that means any time no matter what, they will move).

Maybe it's the fact that the homes they create are in the millions, or that they have such stellar taste: a mix of antiques and modern (though we wouldn't pick some pieces as modern as they do- hello, shark-tooth looking biggest desk in the world), or that Bob is probably the most laid back man in the world or maybe it's the sub-contractor Antonio, but whatever it is, we are totally addicted to this show.

LISTENING AND LOVING: JÓNSI

2010-04-21T09:15:00.007-04:00

No Iceland, no one's grateful for Eyjafjalldoiejkjfoeij but thanks for this. If you love Sigur Rós, he's a lot of the reason why.

YOU BELONG AMONG THE WILDFLOWERS

2010-04-14T15:06:00.015-04:00

So we have completed Sarah and Chris' invites and we are going to show them once they have had the chance to send them out. But, we wanted to show you some of the inspirations that helped form the invite. And some of our key words were whimsical, vintage and pretty.

We'll definitely tell you more and explain how we got from these to our final product!

But for now, draw your own conclusions and let us know what you think!

FOOD REVOLUTION

2010-04-12T19:19:00.008-04:00

One of our new favorite shows is Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution. And in case you are just tuning in, we LOVE cooking (and eating) food. We really like what the show stands for, which is all about fresh cooking made easy. And we totally support his efforts in helping American school kids, and Americans as a whole, eat healthier. There is just something about knowing exactly where your food comes from, that it's free from preservatives and having the satisfaction of preparing something with your own hands.

But, we are not high and mighty, even we occasionally splurge on some good fast food. Nothing wrong with some good fast food on occasion and a little something we have dubbed Biscuit Saturday (which occurs maybe once a month), helllooooo Bojangles chicken filet biscuit (with tomato), um, we're southern. If you have never experienced that, you simply must. But, back to healthy talk...

We also got the Food Revolution cookbook and started working our way through it a few weeks ago. This is the second recipe from the book that we've made, Shrimp and avocado with an old-school marie rose sauce. The cool, smooth avocado with crisp pea shoots, and crunchy shrimp with a fresh squeeze of lemon makes a quick spring time lunch. We had never heard of an old-school marie rose sauce, but it was a lot like a thousand island dressing without the pickles and sub in a teaspoon of whiskey. It was creamy and cool and paired well with the hot shrimp and made a great dressing for the avocado and pea shoots!

We will be posting more recipes from the book as we make them! Let us know if you've made anything great lately or what you think about Jamie Oliver and his Food Revolution!

HOT NOW!

2010-03-24T02:00:00.005-04:00

Heather H Photography

This adorable pair is one of our newest clients. How cute are they?! We're currently working on their custom invitations and totally excited about the way they are coming together! Stay tuned for the final product...

And how great are these photos? Check out the rest of their engagement session photos over here!

SUNDAY, MUNCHKIN SUNDAY

2010-03-21T18:54:00.006-04:00

This is our Sunday (paired with pajamas and a movie). And of course we made it to church this morning. Oh, and we went for a walk around the neighborhood (instead of our usual scooter ride) before eating these, to even the score. So yes, we DO get out of the house every now and then, contrary to what our friends and family believe. What's wrong with being home bodies?

In case you're wondering, the box included half glazed, half blueberry cake. So good!

WHAT IS FP?

2010-03-20T11:59:00.007-04:00

So we're doing a cool give-away thing right now on our friend Kearsie's blog, Sounds Like Tomatoes. Head on other there, check out her blog, and comment on the give-away post and you'll be entered to win a 5 pack of our French Moderne thank you cards!

Through this give-away someone commented to Kearsie that the Dapper Paper "thyme" card was on the "FP" right now. We and Kearsie both replied with, "what in the world is "FP?". While we were waiting to find out what that meant, we checked out Etsy and saw our card in the hand picked items section on the FP, which we then realized was the "front page". Now we know!

We were really excited to see this, and so glad that one of Kearsie's readers pointed that out. Otherwise we would have had no idea it was there.

NO MORE STORE-BOUGHT CARDS

2010-03-07T20:54:00.006-05:00

While most people were rushing to Target, Walmart, or (plug in your store of choice here) to pick that ~~perfect~~ mediocre Valentine's Day card, I was cramming to design one of my own.

My wife loves to cook, and is really, really, really good at it. I'm spoiled. She sits on the couch a few nights a week flipping through her never-ending stacks of cooking magazines, and picks out our menu for lunch and dinner. She's introduced me to flavor profiles and ingredients that I never knew existed!

So as I was sitting there trying to think of a card that really meant something, and was somewhat creative, I came up with this. However, this is not the version I gave her. Due to my lack of knowledge of what most herbs look like, she told me I actually illustrated basil the first time around, not thyme. Oops.

So, we went back to the drawing board, and this time I let her illustrate the thyme. The end product was much better, and we decided to add it to our list of items in our Etsy shop. Hopefully other foodies out there will enjoy this card, and won't have to make that dreaded trip to the store for a not-so-good one.

BLOOMIN' BUSY AND GRATEFUL FOR IT

2010-03-05T15:30:00.009-05:00

We've been staying pretty busy lately, and can't seem to find time to work on new projects ideas due to getting orders printed and out the door. But, that's a good problem I suppose.

We opened our humble Etsy shop in December and have been quite pleased in the number of inquiries and orders we've had in the last few months. One thing that is really cool about Etsy is people from all over the globe have access to your shop. We've placed several orders from Canada lately, one in particular was a wedding invitation package and everything is written in French! Luckily our client was fluent in English too, so that made the process painless. We just shipped these out this week and are now on to another Canadian wedding order, along with a few in the US.

COME SAIL AWAY, COME SAIL AWAY,COME SAIL AWAY WITH ME

2010-03-02T21:19:00.019-05:00

"...When I get married, I'm gonna have a sailor dress, but it's going to be a gown, and all my bridesmaids are gonna wear sailor hats...with veils."

-Dionne, CLUELESS

It's like that, but with much more class.

yellow sandles, necktie, necklace, lemon tart, izze, audrey, table/room, wedding dress, bridesmaid dress, save the date, lanterns

LADIES, JAKE, LEATHER JACKET...THIS IS THE FINAL ROSE.

2010-03-01T16:49:00.010-05:00

Jake on the wings of someone unknown's love

Yeah, we watch. But, it includes lots of mockmentary (a word I have just now created for "mocking commentary"). Next time around (Lord, please don't let it be Allie: The Bachelorette, we can't take the pouting and loud breathing, Amen), we'll let you in on our comments.

But, for tonight, we must watch the MOST dramatic rose ceremony EVER. Or so Chris Harrison always says....about every rose ceremony.

SHRUG YOUR BIG SHOULDERS

2010-02-26T11:56:00.016-05:00

I've been dreaming of this Anthropologie sweater for some time now.

I am not afraid of embellishments. I love them, in an unexpected way. But, maybe I should be afraid of them making my shoulders too broad. Why?

(Cue the hazy flashback with my chin resting in my hand)

After I got married, my sister, husband and I went through my closet because the huz and I were living in our ~~tiny~~ cozy house and I just couldn't keep everything I had accumulated and didn't always wear but refused to part with (you understand ladies).

So, I tried on a sweater that i had worn NUMEROUS times, I mean for at least 5 years – a Gap black and white horizontal striped sweater. I say "How about this?" My sister says "hmmm...that makes your shoulders look big"..." really?!", "I've worn this sweater for like 5 years. And you NEVER told me that!?!" I said ..."Oh", says she. "but, you have...but you kind of have big shoulders anyways."

WHAT?! I do?! News to me. But luckily my sister and I were laughing profusely during this interaction, therefore humor lightened this tragedy: I have broad shoulders.

Well, ya know what? They are about to get even broader because I'm going to get this sweater and wear it for another 5 years and totally ignore the fact that I may look like a football player, albeit, a well-dressed stylish football player.

Elizabeth Banks in Sportmax, Dianne Kruger in Jason Wu, Dior dress, Star Sprinkle Cardi

GOOD TYPOGRAPHY IS INVISIBLE

2010-02-23T15:47:00.004-05:00

While creating this blog, I made my way over to Google images to find a few images to use in test posts. I'm a typography geek, so my first search query was just that (minus the geek part). I saw the "Good Typography is Invisible, Bad Typography is Everywhere" image (top left) and it blew my mind. And I knew once we got the blog up and running, I would post about this and find out more about the person behind such works.

This person is Craig Ward, an Art Director and Senior Designer in New York that is seasoned in his craft. I looked through his work and wanted to pull everything to post, but picked a few favorites to show here. He does such a flawless job using type as an art form and really gives it meaning and a feeling that takes true skills to achieve.

I believe type is one of the most important elements in a design, and I think he probably feels the same way. I think a a lot of designers (myself included) gravitate to great photographs or illustrations to make up for the lack for great typography. But don't get me wrong, there are always times when typography should take a back seat to other elements in design, and good designers know when are where to make that happen. But even in those times, good typography is equally as important to make the entire piece come together.