Have you heard how hot it has been in Portland?  We have been breaking all kinds of records and one would assume that would include ice cream sales.  Yes, this hot weather has us thinking of all kinds of ways to chill down.  Some people head to the river for a swim while others, like ourselves, enjoy a scoop of our favorite tasty summertime treat while dreaming of when it will be cool enough for sweaters.  Which is exactly what we thought of when the new J.Crew catalogue arrived!  Look at this beautiful stack of cashmere cardigans and tell us you cannot wait for the temperature to dip.  Some of the colors even remind us of our favorite flavors.  Makes you feel cooler already, doesn’t it?

 The Italian Cashmere Crewneck Cardigan, the perfect accent to any wardrobe or bridesmaid dress!

The weather is warming up again here in Portland and it is suppose to be nearing 100 for the weekend.  The thought of being outdoors for a wedding ceremony makes us want to melt so here are some ideas on ways to keep your guests cool, hydrated and happy while you say I do.

If possible, providing a shaded area for your guests to gather while waiting for the start of the ceremony is a great idea.  If this is not an option, large umbrellas can be set up in clusters to create the same effect or even providing large paper parasols will help to shield the sun.  Including a beverage station with water, lemonade or iced tea is also a nice touch and keeps your guests from overheating.   Paper fans can also help and having your program printed on one is a clever idea.  It also never hurts to have a small basket filled with sunscreen for those that may have forgotten or did not realize they would be outdoors.

The weather, no matter where you live, can be unpredictable but a little pre-planning can go a long way in making your guests comfortable so that they can enjoy every minute of your wedding day.

All photos from Martha Stewart Weddings

There is something innately romantic about the Greek Isles so what better wedding inspiration than Santorini, the jewel of the Mediterranean.  Numerous aspects of your wedding can take inspiration from this Greek Island; from invitations and favors to attire. Set the tone of your wedding by sending out this “Passport” save the date.  Incorporate Greek cooking in your hors d’oeuvres and entree choices.  Love the Grecian style as much as we do?  Channel a Greek goddess on your big day with this gorgeous wedding dress by Manuel Mota paired with a Grecian inspired headpiece and these fun pumps by L.A.M.B.  Lastly, send your guests home with sailboat tea light favors as a memory of their voyage to Santorini.