What to wear, what to wear?  It’s the age old question… Everybody has their own unique style and in this day and age there is no “proper” ensemble for a rehearsal dinner.  It’s important that you pick something that makes you feel beautiful, comfortable and is a reflection of your personality and personal style.  The people in attendance at your rehearsal dinner are the friends and family that knows you best so if you veer on the alternative side, you may get a raised eyebrow or two if you showcase bubblegum pink chiffon.  Keeping this in mind, we came up with three very different rehearsal dinner outfit ideas; romantic, edgy, and neutral!

All dresses, Antropologie; silver floral headband, available at New and Blue; shoe, Nordstrom; black blazer, Forever 21; studded purse, Nordstrom; Pashmina, Pashmina Gifts; pearl earrings, availble at most jewelry shops.

Ruby Jewel’s handmade ice cream sandwiches were the highlight of a recent trip to our local farmers market but can be the star of the show at your next event (or in your freezer).  Made from only the freshest, all-natural, all-good, all-northwest ingredients these little gems are delicious!  They are available in two sizes and a variety of tasty flavors, or they will customize a flavor just for you.  And yes, they ship anywhere in the USA.

Taking inspiration from this gorgeous wedding dress by Valentino, we put together a bridal beauty ensemble that is sure to make any bride feel like Cinderella.  Romantic hair and make-up together with glamorous accessories perfectly fit together for a flawless finish. 

From left: dress, Valentino; make-up, Chanel; earings, Saks Fith Avenue ; shoes, Nordstrom; fur shrug, available on Etsy.

Today’s invitation inspiration board features our Reef wedding invitation in Azul and Clementine.

Clockwise from upper left:  Anthropologie Crackled Address Book and Goldfish Pillow, Slant Collections Coastal Cocktail Shaker, Goldfish Tile Pendant from Etsy Seller Kimiko611, ZGallerie Jeweled Lion Fish Box, Boden Striped Scoop Neck Pleat Top, Goldfish in a Bag Soap from Etsy Seller Sinami Soap Company, New and Blue Reef Wedding Invitation, Anthropologie Inside Out Serving Bowl, ZGallerie Faux Blue Coral, Anthropologie Beaded Creature Necklace and Braided Bikini, Multi-Colored Fluted Glass Vase from Etsy Seller WolfArtGlass, Slant Collections Coastal Embroidered Napkins and Cole Haan Capri Buckle Thong.

Haute Papier wedding invitations are now available at the New and Blue boutique in Portland, Oregon. These hip invitations are digitally printed and come in a variety of colors and styles.  Call or stop by today to view this terrific line.

New and Blue, 1321 NW Hoyt St., Portland, Oregon, 97209, USA - Phone 1-877-268-7117

You want to do good for the planet, but you always wanted that fairy tale wedding dress.   Re-using is the best way to be green.  Consignment stores offer beautiful designer dresses that were worn once before.

 If you decide to go for a new dress you may want to choose from hemp, silk, vintage lace, recycled cashmere and leather, or organic linen and bamboo fabrics.  You can find the gown of your dreams in anything from sustainable to eco-couture.

Photo from www.prettychicky.com

If your seeking inspiration for your romantic vintage wedding, this inspiration board is for you!  Think delicate rose bouquets and floral arrangements, parasols to shade your guests from the summer sun, and vintage inspired invitations like this one from Tag and Company.  We love it!

From top left: bouquet photograph, Richelle Dante; parasol photograph, Leo Patrone; invitation, Tag and Company available at New and Blue; wedding dress, Elie Saab; bridesmaid dress photo, Perfect Bound Vintage blog; seat assignment photo, Zoom Photography.

Looking for something fun and unique to do with your sweetie this holiday season?  How about blowing your own Christmas ornaments?!  Elements Glass Gallery presents this wonderful opportunity for you to make something truly special and one-of-a-kind.  The fun happens on Saturdays and Sundays beginning this Saturday, November 14th, and runs through December 21st.  Advance payment and registration is required by calling 503-228-0575.  It is $38 per ball with $5 being donated to the Oregon Food Bank.  If you blow 9 balls you get your 10th free!  It only takes 15-20 minutes per ball which leaves you plenty of time to view their current exhibit and then grab a coffee, cocktail or dinner in the Pearl. 

Elements Glass Gallery is located at 1979 NW Vaughn Street, North of Lovejoy.

Happy Date Night!

We see a lot of brides that come to the New and Blue Boutique asking about pocket invitations.  Its understandable why people look for and admire the presentation of this particular kind of wedding invitation.  Pocket invites provide a neat set-up that allows your guests to keep all your invitation pieces organized in one place.  There are many options when looking for pocket invites ranging from the simplistic to the highly customizable and ornate.  Whether your looking for a bargain or wanting to splurge, there’s a pocket invite for every budget. 

From the left: economical pocket invites from Carslon Craft, customizable b.t. elements pocket invitations, ornate pocket invitations by Arabella Papers.  All available at New and Blue.

Today’s invitation inspiration board features our Laurelhurst wedding invitation in Raven. 

Clockwise from upper left:  Anthropologie Chateau Lamp, Emma Black Lace 3 Wick Candle by Fringeat Bloomingdales, Sephora by OPI Dark Room Nail Colour, Coach Signature Quilted Hat, Pottery Barn Grand Phone, Richard Ginori Dandy Champagne Fluteat Bergdorf Goodman, Anthropologie Mantilla Scarf and Bewitching Booties, J.Crew Crushed Glitter Satin Clutch, Shu Vemura Slant Black False Eyelashesat Bergdorf Goodman, Smashbox Jet Set Waterproof Eye Liner, Garnet Hill Porcelain Accent Light, White House Black Market Jet Flower Necklace, Ann Taylor Metallic Pleat Neck Shell and New and Blue Laurelhurst Wedding Invitation in the center.