The O'Donnells

I Heart Paper Source

Inspired by our weekend helping fabulous friends with a DIY wedding invite, I bring you Paper Source. For those of you unfamiliar with Paper Source, it is a Chicago based paper store, and so much more. The store has amazing papers and colors in every possible size and shape - perfect for an invitation, menu, favor, program, greeting card, etc.

Check out the Paper Source How To section with demonstration videos and project ideas.

There are 2 locations in the DC area - Georgetown and Alexandria, or you can find them online at www.paper-source.com

DIY Doodle Wrap

Check out this fun gift wrap from WhimsyPress.com (home to many fun, and you guessed it - whimsical items). Two sided - the green side provides doodles for you and pink side let's you create your own doodles or notes. $4.50 per sheet.

Save the Dates

Save the Dates are a perfect way to give guests a preliminary heads up and provide more details about your event. Some basic guidelines for sending Save the Dates:

Who needs them?

Suggested for:
Everyone. More and more brides are sending Save the Dates as they provide a fun opportunity to get the word out and foreshadow the style of your big event.

Required for:
Destination Wedding
Weddings including Out of Town Guests
Weddings taking place during a holiday or other peak time

When to send?

Aim to send save-the-date cards soon after you secure your date and venue, or about 6-9 months prior to your wedding.

What style should I use?

Save the Dates are fun. Since they are a relatively modern concept, no formal rules apply. You can find options that match your invitation, colors and theme. Or mix it up - use something whimsical or casual.

What should I include?

Save the Dates should be simple, providng a basic who, what, when.... Be sure to include:

* Names
* Date
* Location

You can also include:
* hotel accommodations
* directions
* any additional parties you might want guests to attend during the wedding weekend

The Perfect Fancy Bag

I found the perfect fancy bag for a wedding (and only $60). This Kate Landry Rhinestone-Bow Frame Clutch features: rhinestone-embellished closure; chain strap that can be tucked away; rhinestone-encrusted large bow detail; and silvertone hardware. Available in Champagne or Turquoise.

I may need one (don't tell Chris!)

Square Tables

Using square tables is a new-ish trend for special events. Many party rental companies offer square tables in a variety of sizes, with linens to match. A fresh new idea comes from Party Rental, LTD - square tables nice enough to go without linens...

From BizBash:

You can cut linens from the budget by renting the new Parsons table from Party Rental Ltd. Part of the company's new spring line, the 66-inch square table has a sturdy wood frame and is covered completely in a shiny faux-leather material, with a textured surface that eliminates the need for tablecloths. The tables come in black, white, and bark and can be rented in the New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., areas, with prices available upon request.