Focal Point

When I see designers scope out a voluminous room and transform it into a warm gathering hub, I find myself in a state of awe.  Recently, on Mercer Island, I watched miracles happen as two of these colossal bouquets were brought in (by very strong men!) and displayed at the “Altar Area” as focal points.  It truly changed the front of the room to a gracious and amiable scene.  This vast collection of stunning flowers and twigs, brightly back-lit by  beautiful April sunshine, brought “ooohs and ahhhs” from all the guests!

The Mason Jar Bouquet …with a twist

We’ve seen the Mason Jar bouquet done at weddings before – but I love the change-up of the yellow paint, the burlap and ribbon  band trim and the natural arrangement that perfectly complements the “vase”.   The florist was kept in the loop regarding the burlap runners and used this rough textured fabric to mirror the cozy theme.  Coco Chanel once said, “Fashion is architecture: it is a matter of proportions.”  Ah – cheers to perfect proportions!

Rustic Reception Table

At a recent wedding, I was quite taken with the rustic theme.  The bride and groom chose burlap runners from Choice Linens  for the perfect start to their table scape.  (I must say that I adore Liza and Claire; so creative, so fun.)  Notice the clear water bottles for sipping, the woodland moss-covered stand that held the table number, small hand carved twig pencils with which the guests played their ice breaker games and the recycled paper candy boxes.  It all had a comfortable, easy ambiance that made everyone feel immediately at home.  I am always impressed when the couple takes the time and energy to be so involved with the presentation.

Tiffany, Our Ring Bearer

I have heard many delightful and charming engagement stories.  This is my favorite so far.  Here is Tiffany the Robot presenting an amazing ring to Bride Katy from Groom Greg.  (I just love the embellishment of ribbon.)   Tiffany did such a great job helping seal the deal that Greg and Katy are inviting her back for a command performance for their wedding in late June at the Woodmark Hotel.  Be still my heart!

Carl and Susanne … oh so romantic!

On Valentine’s Day I heard from a very dear couple that I married on August 7, 2005 in North Bend.  Carl and Susanne now have two beautiful children, Tristan and Christopher.  Susanne and Carl are the couple on my web site that surprised me by kissing me at the same time while one of their parents took a candid shot.  A photo that still makes me smile.  When I first won the Seattle Bride Magazine “Best Of” award in 2010, it is the photo of Carl and Susanne that the magazine decided to publish.  And the romantic Carl had the magazine article framed  for the beautiful Susanne for Valentine’s Day.  I enjoy seeing how my couples get creative to keep their marriage fresh.  Watching the rest of their story unfold is truly delightful!

From Dear Susanne:

“Mary, you’re too kind! I think I can speak for Carl when I say that we both were so lucky all those years ago to have found you. You made such a good and lasting impression on us and then years later, out of countless couples you’ve married, what an honor it was to see our photo used in the magazine, on your website and now on your blog. You will always be a very special person to us and we will always sing your praises!!!!! You are the perfect person to do what you do! We wish you all the happiness and joy life can bring to you!!!”

Aria = John Gardner = Exquisite

I first met John Gardner of Aria/Style about ten years ago in a country barn that he had transformed in Snohomish County.  It was at Jen’s wedding.  (His friend Jen that is now my friend Jen too.)  It was such a great adventure to  to be at “Weddings in Woodinville” with John and Amy in January.  Here is one of his creations at Willows Lodge that is just jaw-dropping.  John is so humble when I ohhhh and ahhhh at his work!  His creativity keeps unfurling, now adding design, decor and textiles to the floral opulence.

Lunch Time

It was my perfect day.  No rain, great company, watching my little back yard acquire an enchanting focal point – it was just magical. To finally meet John Akers, the whimsical artist and builder was a charming experience. At 1:00 p.m. it was time to get cleaned up and enjoy macadamia nut encrusted stuffed chicken breasts with a fresh garden salad and homemade garlic bread.  I couldn’t serve lunch until John autographed the shed for me.  Every morning when I am enjoying my coffee I look into my back yard and think of my wonderful sister!  I am truly blessed in so many ways.

Good Morning John Akers!!!

On Saturday morning I am in my garden drinking my coffee and admiring the beautiful brick foundation when John Akers calls to say that it looks like rain and would I mind waiting until May?  ”Don’t make me cry, John” I reply.  He was teasing me and on his way to my home!  It was like Christmas morning.  Here is John caulking the copper cupola and preparing the final piece of the copper roof!

 

Scott Joins the Team

Friday was the final day of finishing the foundation. This is when we cut and sank 6″ x 6″ treated timbers.  Then Scott, my carpenter, and Marcus carefully chose antique bricks so that my shed would have the perfect flooring for the Cape Cod style shed that would be delivered the following day.  Photos of the foundation progress were emailed to John Akers throughout the day so he could track our progress.  Here  are Scott and Marcus just before the sun went down as we celebrated the completion of the four day project!

My Gardening Shed Story

It all started as a generous gift from my sister.  A garden potting/shed that was gracing the landscape at Ravenna Gardens at University Village.  Not just any garden shed really… a John Akers Work of Art Garden Shed – with his crafted copper roof and cupola, antique doors and windows, the silvered, reclaimed wood.  I was soon educated about the complex prep work that would need to take place before John could deliver my precious shed.  Let the digging begin!  I must have hauled five loads of gravel in my little Tacoma truck for the 5′ x 5′ foundation!  Marcus was such a great help for the three days it took at this stage of the foundation.