White Album: Ashley Wright and Joe Brickner
Garden Party
Ashley Wright and Joe Brickner
Photography by Bit of Ivory
Virginia Beach, Virginia June 25, 2011
From a garden path leading to the front steps of the bride's great aunt and uncle's waterfront home in Virginia Beach, to the back yard reception; it was the perfect wedding venue for Ashley and Joe. "A month into the planning, my mom found 68 yards of green floral fabric that became the source of design inspiration- and we stuck with it!" This fabric motif was used on everything from envelope liners for the invitation to picnic table runners. Relying on a multitude of details and DIY touches, this "Garden Party" included personalized mason jars; vintage frames with pictures of the bride and groom at different ages; homemade apple butter; handmade confetti cones for the send off; handwritten chalkboard signs; and a green themed candy bar. Fitting the "mood" of the day, Ashley wore a strapless lace dress by Anjolique accented at the waist with a rhinestone belt. Two veils were worn –a cathedral length with headpiece for the ceremony; and birdcage with detachable flower for the reception. "Although I am a high school fashion teacher and love trends, I wanted a classic dress that I could look back on years from now and still love." Deciding on a First Look, they met on the garden path. "Just spending time alone with one another before the craziness of the day helped ease any fears." The couple created a nostalgic photo slideshow that played during each of their First Dance songs. A tall vintage-looking plant stand displayed the white and green cupcakes topped with personalized flags from Etsy. Heidi's Flowers crafted a vintage feel using dozens of mason jars, twig wreaths, and galvanized pails to display white hydrangeas and a beautiful mix of flowers. "We wanted it to look effortless and informal – like we had just picked the flowers from a field that day."
VENDOR LIST
RECEPTION SITE
Family Home
PHOTOGRAPHER
Bit of Ivory
VIDEOGRAPHER
Victoria Shirley
FLOWERS
Heidi's Flowers
GOWN AND VEIL DESIGNER
Anjolique| Pure English
BIRDCAGE VEIL
Pieces of Pemberley
BRIDAL SHOES
Steve Madden
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Anjolique| Pure English
GROOM'S SUIT
Dan Ryan's
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Anjie Compres/Picasso Hair Salon
Sara Craig/MAC Make-up
FAVORS
Homemade Apple Butter & Flower Pots
RINGS
Baker's Jewelry
CAKE
Carolina Cupcakery
LINENS
Distinctive Rentals
White Album: Melissa Lynne Burrus and Colin Michael Sullivan
Vintage Chic Love
Melissa Lynne Burrus and Colin Michael Sullivan
Photography by Eleise Theuer
Virginia Beach, Virginia November 19, 2011
Who knew that meeting at a "Future" themed costume party in the past would bring Melissa and Colin together in matrimony in the present! With vows exchanged at Melissa's childhood church, Galilee Episcopal; and reception following at The Princess Anne Country Club; it was a night filled with moments to remember. For Colin, "When the pastor pronounced us man and wife, it was as if all of my life had led up to this point and I had finally found the person I would spend the rest of my life with." Choosing a deep purple theme for bridesmaids, the bouquets and arrangements included pops of pink roses, purple cabbage, hydrangea and green berries. Melissa chose a 1950's tea length ivory duchess satin strapless dress with bow and sequin embellishment by Melissa Sweet. Shoulder length veil and bow hairpiece were designed by the bride's sister, Michelle Burrus. Vintage gloves and fur stole completed the look. Special memories included a first dance serenade of, "Can't Help Falling in Love" by close friend Tanya Gallagher; vintage photo booth snap shots; purple hydrangeas trailing down whipped cream icing over layers of delicious chocolate cake, chocolate mousse, cheesecake and crust; and a sparkler send-off to light up the night. Says Melissa, "When we made our sparkler exit, Colin stopped to dip me and gave me a kiss that literally swept me off my feet."
Three Words to describe the day:
Unforgettable, Moving, Joyful
Vendor List
Reception Site
The Princess Anne Country Club
Coordinator
Isha Foss Events
Stylist
Michelle Burrus
Photographer
Eleise Theuer
Photo Booth
The Boardwalk Photo Booth Company
Videographer
Matt Francis
Gown Designer
Melissa Sweet |Kleinfeld, NY
Veil/ Headpiece
Michelle Burrus
Bridal Shoes
Grace / Pure English
Bridesmaid Dresses
Alfred Sung / Pure English
Tuxedo
Calvin Klein
Makeup
Kim Wadsworth for BridesMade
Hair Design
Jaclyn Boone
Stationery/ Invitations
Melissa Burrus
Flowers
For The Unique
Cake
Angie
White Album: Kelsey Elizabeth Cullinan and Taylor Patrick Doyle
Kelsey Elizabeth Cullinan and Taylor Patrick Doyle
Photography by Glenn Bashaw | Images in Light
Norfolk, Virginia October 22, 2011
Relying on little Celtic touches and Irish lineage for inspiration, Kelsey Cullinan and Taylor Doyle exchanged vows at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church before family and friends. Instead of a unity candle, they chose a hand fasting ceremony- an Irish tradition that originated "tying the knot." A reception followed at the only location they ever visited- The Chrysler Museum of Art. In love with the "amazing atmosphere," it was the ideal location to celebrate their day. Loving the idea of neutral and classic colors, Kelsey chose a timeless palate of cream Vendella roses and lilies for both the centerpieces and bouquets; with touches of grey dusty miller and green floral accents of hydrangea, spider mums and Bells of Ireland. Artfully placed on a side table were framed wedding photos of parents, grandparents and great grandparents, along with Kelsey's bridal portrait. With a love for lace, Kelsey wore an ivory fit and flare gown with boat neck bodice and see-through lace back by Casablanca. Her classic cathedral-length veil with satin piping and lush bouquet of cream roses, dusty miller and green hypericum berries completed the look. A favorite moment? Before making their grand entrance down the staircase for their first dance to "L-O-V-E" by Nat King Cole, Kelsey and Taylor took it all in by peering through the upper balcony windows as guests gathered in Huber Court. In keeping with the color scheme, the ivory cake with butter cream frosting had three different flavors: almond cake with coconut cream filling, almond cake with raspberry filling, and almond cake with dark chocolate ganache. Resting on a grand silver stand with another silver pedestal separating the first and second tiers, with cream roses placed on top, "It was amazing!"
The Day in Three Words:
Romantic. Fun. Unforgettable.
VENDOR LIST
RECEPTION SITE
The Chrysler Museum of Art
COORDINATOR
Weddings by Michelle | Michelle Kilgore
PHOTOGRAPHER
Images in Light | Glenn Bashaw
GOWN DESIGNER
Casablanca | Maya Couture
BRIDAL SHOES
Stuart Weitzman
BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Alvina Valenta | Ava Clara TUXEDOS
Men's Wearhouse
HAIR AND MAKEUP
Elizabeth Paschall and Nichole Williams
STATIONERY/INVITATIONS
R.S.V.P Stationery
FLOWERS
Daevid's of Norfolk
FAVORS
Donation to the S.P.C.A
RINGS
Rinehart Brothers Jewelers
CATERER
Cuisine & Company
CAKE
Shockley's Sweet Shoppe
Seasonal Sips
Seasonal Sips
By Ailsa von Dobeneck
Celebrate your special day with a seasonally inspired libation! Go beyond the signature cocktail and offer a festive drink idea that reflects the time of year, marked with a clever presentation. Let unique garnishes and unusual flavors give updated taste options to old favorites. Catering experts share their ideas for taking beverage offerings on a seasonal journey for every time of year.
Spring
~Mint Juleps make a racy cocktail in silver cups served in metal or plastic "Julep" cups.
Wedding day receptions around "Derby Time" make this the perfect themed cocktail.
~Spring's sweet breezes create a magical mood for champagne bliss. Try a Kir Royale- a raspberry and champagne cocktail- as a festive option for your toasts. Prosecco provides a more cost-effective and delicious alternative.
~For a refreshing non-alcoholic drink, Dina Taylor of Cuisine & Company suggests hydrating guests with varieties of agua fresca. These flavored waters include everything from rejuvenating mint and cucumber, to a complete selection of pureed fresh fruits. Decorative jars and jugs create a colorful water-bar spread with floating garnishes added.
~Signature drinks still rule. A spring specialty hit created by a recent Cuisine & Company bride was a cucumber and basil margarita with basil-infused simple syrup, Patron Silver tequila and fresh lemon juice. The color, taste and look made it a hit!
Summer
~Some love it icy cold. To serve spiked drinks, offer it from a thematice Ice Luge. Andrea Latham of Ice Art Inc. has couples pick a favorite design, then carve it into a masterpiece! Visually fun, it lessens beverage traffic and ensures that no one is without a glass. Serve in mason jars with fresh garnish and striped straws set at the bottom of the slide.
~Blast guests with snow cone cocktails! Shaved ice served in glasses or paper cones with flavored syrup options for little ones; or alcohol elixirs for adults; keeps every one cool and refreshed. Line up colorful choices for a festive visual and let everyone mix and match as they choose.
~Grooms return to their old favorites, offering preferred beers, according to Dina Taylor. Make an "I Do Brew" bar with a variety of beers poured in pilsner glasses. Pair with a Snack Bar complete with homemade pretzels brushed with butter and sea salt; and spicy nuts.
~Revive a summertime classic at the end of the evening: Ice Cream Float Bars. Use soda mainstays like Dr. Pepper, Dr. Brown and Coke poured in tall glasses topped with scoops of vanilla bean ice cream, long spoons and stripped straws.
Fall
The harvest hues of fall provide an unparalleled beverage color scheme. Cathy Carter of East Beach Catering loves the idea of warming hearts with a toasty mulled cider bar complete with cinnamon sticks for swirling.
For a seasonal treat, she suggests an apple ginger martini with vodka and homemade garnishes. Twists of apple peel, candied ginger, and gold flake edge liven up the glass, giving guests an autumn feel.
Winter
Winter weddings are the perfect opportunity for warm drinks. An authentic favorite is mulled wine with cloves and cinnamon. A traditional Southern alternative is the hot bourbon toddy.
Dina Taylor also recommends a cozy favorite: warm baked cookies resting on shot glasses of fresh milk. Children at your celebration will squeal with joy; and adults will savor this adorable late night snack. Give it a night cap buzz with a shot of Irish Cream.
For a winter night cap to remember, Cathy Carter suggests a rich hot cocoa bar. Top your chocolate bliss with piles of shaved dark chocolate, homemade marshmallows and flavored whipped cream. After this decadent treat, departing guests will have no problem braving the cold.
Perfect Petals
PERFECT PETALS
By Ann Wright
Photography by David Schwartz
Wedding flowers are becoming more personal as they acquire new presence and drama through bold color and inspired design. Reflecting a couple's personality and style, floral designers can fashion a unique look while getting the most out of your flower budget.
Monochromatic arrangements are replacing more traditional mixtures of colors, according to Todd Wadsworth of Black Iris Floral Events in Virginia Beach. "Clutches of flowers in the same color give much more impact. Saturated colors - rich, bright, pure colors - are becoming more popular and show well in contemporary arrangements." Notes Wadsworth, even pastels become sleek and chic when combined with a modern aesthetic.
Color has long been a unifying theme for weddings; and Shannon Hart and Mary Hancock of Palette of Petals in Virginia Beach are incorporating more of it in bridal bouquets. "Some brides are asking for the deepest, most passionate colors for their flowers and a shade or two lighter for their bridesmaids to carry," says Hart. "Brides still prefer the simple lines of hand-tied bouquets but in bolder colors."
"Aubergine - a deep, eggplant purple - is a popular color for bridesmaid dresses," explains Charlene Wallace, owner of Char's Floral Designs located in Maya Couture. "It's a nice background for vibrant bouquets. I particularly like orange against the purple."
Sandra Coburn, a floral designer at Norfolk Wholesale, is seeing a lot of navy blue gowns and black for evening weddings. "Brides are selecting both hot pinks and other vivid colors that pop against the navy and black; or they're opting for a classic look with white tulips."
Cascades are back in vogue for bridal bouquets but with a looser structure that allows plant materials to stay true to their botanic natures. "Cool new vine-y materials such as southern smilax are great," enthuses Wadsworth. Clematis and sweet peas are also graceful trailers. Grasses, succulents and berries add unusual textures. Hosta leaves give a just-picked-from-the-garden look. Amaryllis, anemones and tulips have joined the floral lineup but the pros still love orchids for their ability to stay fresh-looking up to a week out of water.
Bling is big. Sparkling crystals hang from bare branches decorated with battery-powered LED light strings. Shiny or jewel-hued wires wind through arrangements and bouquets. Sometimes the inspiration is nostalgic, with vintage brooches pinned to the ribbon; or an heirloom handkerchief wrapping the stems of the bride's bouquet.
Pinned corsages have all but disappeared. A popular alternative for mothers and grandmothers is attaching fresh flowers to a handbag; or wearing as a cuff bracelet. Nosegays, tussy-mussies and single blooms to carry still remain good choices.
"Boutonnieres are where you'll see the most changes because the boys are bringing it on," says Isha Foss of Isha Foss Events. "There is no more green sticky tape. Instead, boutonnieres run the gamut using interesting wraps and great textures."
Flowers on the church doors announce the nuptials. Floral wreaths, sometimes incorporating the couple's monogram, establish a sense of arrival at their special event. "Flowers along the aisle lead the eye to the altar but have a more immediate impact on guests than the altar flowers, which are further away," says Wadsworth.
Pomanders are an old school design re-interpreted in a fresh way. The flower-covered balls suspended by a ribbon can be hung along the aisle or carried by bridesmaids. Carnations (which come in a seemingly limitless range of colors) or hydrangeas (which are usually white, green, pink, blue or purple) are frequently used to create a round effect.
Pomanders offer a good example of how the same flowers can be easily used at both the church and the reception. Foss explains, "Pomander balls used as pew accents at the church or synagogue can be placed atop glass vases at the reception. Wreaths on the church door can be moved to the reception doors. Houpahs and wedding canopies are easily transformed as accents over the cake table or sweetheart table by hanging votives, adding up-lighting or changing the canopy cloth from white to a shade in the reception's color theme."
Foss stresses that flowers have to work within the overall concept. "Even the most artfully arranged flowers take on added importance at the reception with professional lighting and sumptuous linens. Large arrangements become outstanding statement pieces when illuminated with spotlights," she explains. "Table arrangements look their best properly lit and placed on a beautiful cloth - not stuck on a plain table in a too-dark room." With pin spots, the table flowers can be illuminated without losing the ambiance of candlelight. LED light boxes provide glowing bases for flower arrangements.
Tablescapes are a popular alternative to the standard mirror tile with votives that many venues provide. The looks range from ethereal to earthy. Collections of mercury glass, seashells, moss, bark, succulents, fruits and berries provide a lush look at both ends of the decorative spectrum.
Flower petals, loose and plentiful, have their own newfound power. Whether piled around vases in a tablescape, lining a brick walkway or marking an aisle across beach sand or artfully on a lush lawn; petals lead the way.
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Todd Wadsworth of Black Iris Floral blackirisfloralevents.com
Charlene Wallace of Char's Floral Design charsfloraldesign.com
Isha Fosse of Isha Foss Events ishafossevents.com
Sandie Coburn of Norfolk Wholesale Floral norfolkwholesalefloral.com
Shannon Hart of Palette of Petals paletteofpetals.com
Portals of Love
PORTALS OF LOVE
Photography by Eleise Theuer
Fashion Coordination and Styling by Kim Wadsworth
Through symbolic doorways, brides make a breath-taking entrance.
Silhouette-enhancing slip gown in latte with lace and bead embroidered tulle overlay, illusion straps and pleated tulle hem $1,550 by San Patrick by Pronovios. Enamel floral earrings $290 by Debra Mooreland for Paris. Both at Pure English. White topaz diamond ring $7,150 by Suzy Landa at Simply Selma's.
Strapless sweetheart bodice with silk organza rosette accented ball gown skirt $3,080 by Bliss|Monique Lhuillier at Pure English. Rhinestone cluster earrings $90 by Alexis Bittar. White topaz diamond ring $7,150. By Suzy Landa. Both at Simply Selma's. Hand-cut raw silk cocktail headpiece with croquette feathers and birdcage veil $375 by Pieces of Pemberley Two-button satin collar tuxedo with bow tie by Calvin Klein at Men's Wearhouse. Detail Shots: Moss frames from Norfolk Wholesale Floral. Calligraphy signs by Susan Elise Morton. Red and white paper straws from BakeSweets/ Etsy.
Strapless draped satin gown with pleated drop waist, floral gathers, lace up back and detachable floral keyhole back $1,250 by Maggie Sottero at Maya Couture. Oval white gold and diamond drop earrings $1,400 and white topaz diamond ring $7,150. Both by Suzy Landa at Simply Selma's.
Two-button notched collar tuxedo with bow tie by Calvin Klein at Men's Wearhouse.
Eucalyptus, Billy Ball, freesia, Star of Bethlehem, sweetheart roses and stock bouquet; and rose, Billy Ball and eucalyptus boutonniere from Norfolk Wholesale Floral.
Strapless tulle and Alencon lace gown with pleated cummerbund accented with floral embellishments. Full tulle skirt with lace detail offers satin lace up back $1,075 by Pronovias. Crystal and rhinestone hair comb $345 by Edward Berger. Both from Maya Couture. Sterling silver and rock crystal drop earrings $455 by Monica Rich Kosann. White topaz diamond ring $7,150. by Suzy Landa. Both at Simply Selma's. Detail Shots: Bridal cupcakes from Just Cupcakes. Swarovski crystal covered shoes $380 by Benjamin Adams at Maya Couture. Rose bouquet from Norfolk Wholesale Floral. Three-tiered wedding cake by Patti Cakes.
Strapless gown with sweetheart shaped bodice of feathers with empire waistline tied with grosgrain embellished ribbon and layered tulle skirt $2,225 by Benicarlo by Pronovias at Maya Couture. Lucite drop earrings with rhinestone detail $164 by Alexis Bittar. Sterling silver floral patterned cuff bracelet $1,100 by Monica Rich Kosann. Both from Simply Selma's.
Strapless latte colored gown with Chantilly lace overlay and box pleat train $2,890 by Marisa at Pure English. Hand-cut silk stain cherry blossoms with silk horsehair blusher $250 by Pieces of Pemberley. Rose gold diamond hoop earrings $2,600 by Suzy Landa at Simply Selma's. Detail shots: Grey Lucite pendant necklace with bead tassels $332 and Lucite and rhinestone accent brooch $232. Both by Alexis Bittar at Simply Selma's. Bridal bouquet of freesia, roses, gerbera daisies and dusty miller from Norfolk Wholesale Floral.
Ethereal gown of dimensional lace overlay with cut butterflies and flowers; embellished grosgrain sash; and silk organza skirt with tulle $2,335. Matching tulle and lace veil $570. Both by Pronovias at Maya Couture. Round yellow gold with pink tourmaline earrings $3,440 by Suzy Landa at Simply Selma's.
Detail shots: Peep toe satin shoes $150 by Grace from Pure English. Blue floral hair piece $175 by Pieces of Pemberley. Gerbera daisy and freesia boutonniere from Norfolk Wholesale Floral. Chalcedony and diamond pendant $1,440 by Jamie Joseph at Simply Selma's.
Dupioni silk sweetheart neckline gown with ruched drop waist and floral skirt $2,850 by Paloma Blanca. Bolero jacket of Alencon lace with portrait neckline and button back $475 by San Patrick by Pronovias. Both at Pure English. Rhinestone drop earrings with crystal drops $230 by Haute Bride. Pure English. Bouquet of calla lilies at Norfolk Wholesale Floral. Detail shots: Satin peep toe pump with Swarovski crystal heels $320 by Benjamin Adams at Maya Couture.
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CREDITS:
FASHION COORDINATION AND STYLING
Kim Wadsworth/ Wadsworth Style
ASSISTANT FASHION COORDINATOR AND STYLE ASSISTANT
Mia Byrd
PHOTOGRAPHY
Eleise Theuer
eleisetheuerphotography.com
MAKEUP ARTISTRY
Kathleen Newberry/ Natural Elements Spa & Salon
Natural-elementsspa.com
HAIR DESIGN
Tricia Purdy/ Natural Elements Spa & Salon
Natural-elementsspa.com
MODELS
Missy Marson and Joe LaMontagne
Splashmodel.com
CALLIGRAPHY SIGNAGE
Susan Elise Morton
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LOCATION:
Located on the shore of the Lafayette River in Norfolk, the Hermitage Museum & Gardens is the ideal location for your outdoor wedding and reception. The elegance of the gardens and beauty of the waterfront views create a backdrop unmatched for your special day. Surrounded by twelve acres of formal gardens, the grounds are a picturesque place for a wedding ceremony and reception. Exchange your vows under beautiful trees with the Lafayette River as the background. Perhaps you prefer the Grotto as the setting for your ceremony - a charming fountain featuring a cherubic figure. You may choose to instead overlook the Lafayette River for your special event. If your ceremony is to be small, the gorgeous setting of the Rose Garden is perfect for your marriage vows. Wherever you decide to marry at the Hermitage, you will have an intimate and extraordinary occasion. For more information contact Lil Acosta, Weddings and Events Coordinator at 757.423.2052 x211 or visit This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Natural Wonders
Natural Wonders
Photography by John Wadsworth
Jewelry Styling and Coordination by Bill Owen and Kim Wadsworth
The well-adorned bride knows a special piece when she wears one.
Green tourmaline (21ct) and diamond ring (1.10ctw) in 18K yellow gold $3,900 from Tidewater Keepsake Jewelers.
From lower left, clockwise: Citrine (4.80ct) and diamond (.41ct) ring in 18K yellow gold $3,200 from Tidewater Keepsake Jewelers; Emerald and diamond necklace $43,156 from Madison Jewelers; Charles Kyrypell sterling silver filigree cuff with black onyx bezel set in 18K yellow gold $2,490 from Long Jewelers; Multi-sapphire diamond butterfly pin $16,000 from Precious Gem; 14K triple drop gold and pave earrings with haggai, peridot, pink and blue topaz $3,390 from Long Jewelers.
From top left, clockwise: Exceptional golden South Sea cultured pearl necklace with fancy yellow sapphire and diamond clasp $23,700 from Hardy's Jewellers;
White 15mm South Sea pearl and diamond (.60ctw) pendant in 18K white gold $2,250 shown with a Tahitian black pearl strand $7,000 from Tidewater Keepsake Jewelers; 18K Tahitian black pearl diamond earrings $1,980 from Precious Gem;
Jenny Perl white gold, double bezel, set chain necklace with South-Sea cream pearl drop and stone diamond scroll work $6,500 from Long Jewelers; Vintage silver and pearl pin $475 from Madison; 14K pearl diamond ring $1,315 from Precious Gem.
From left: 18K yellow sapphire diamond chandelier earrings $5,345 from Precious Gem; Yellow lemon quartz ring $400 from Madison Jewelers; Steven Richards 18K gold ring with multi colored rough diamonds $6,175 from Long Jewelers; Rutilated quartz and diamond earrings set in 18K yellow gold $4,360 from Hardy's Jewellers; Original fancy yellow cushion cut diamond (2.20ct) in a 18K two tone pave diamond mount (.89ctw) $14,500 from Tidewater Keepsake Jewelers; 14K rose gold necklace with amethyst, citrine, mint amethyst and diamonds $4,550 from Tidewater Keepsake Jewelers; Rebecca 18K plated sterling cuff with cutout detail and stingray $565 from Long Jewelers.
From top left: Donna Chambers black mother of pearl and garnet necklace $1,000 from Tidewater Keepsake Jewelers; Rina Limor 18K yellow gold drop earrings with diamonds and faceted moonstone $11,400 from Long Jewelers; Open cuff bangle featuring blue topaz and diamonds in 14K and sterling silver $430 from Tidewater Keepsake Jewelers; Gibeon meteorite cuff links with 18K yellow gold lever backs. 24K accents inlayed behind diamonds $2,090 from Hardy's Jewellers; 18K white gold Gibeon meteorite gent's band with diamond accent with pure silver inlay $1,740 from Hardy's Jewellers; Blue topaz 18K SS William Sehraft earrings, $1,125 from Precious Gem; 1.22ct sapphire ring $1,500 from Madison; Blue 18K yellow gold ring with aqua marine intaglio design with pave diamonds $10,000 from Long Jewelers.
Eco-friendly watch in exotic woods from sustainable rainforests in Brazil, with dried flower face $255 from Hardy's Jewellers
Innovators
INNOVATORS
MONICA RICH KOSANN| PHOTOGRAPHER AND JEWELRY DESIGNER
Embracing her art with nostalgia and timeless style, fine-art portrait photographer and jewelry and home accessory designer Monica Rich Kosann integrates memories with cherished possessions, creating tokens emblematic of the emotional experiences in our lives. Her beautiful combination of lockets, charm bracelets and pendants mixed with frames and image cases makes Monica's unique collection a favorite for all enthralled by her sense of discovering personal meaning through art.
Recipient of the 2012 RISING STAR AWARD for FINE JEWELRY by the Fashion Group International and accepted as a member of CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) Monica continues her storytelling journey through new jewelry and accessory designs that tap into modern interpretations of nostalgia.
Monica took time out of her busy schedule in Connecticut to chat by phone with Editor Kim Wadsworth about the allure of lockets; the "charm" of charm bracelets; and why brides love her designs for a lifetime.
IN THE BEGINNING OF YOUR CAREER, YOU WERE A PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER. WHAT CAUSED YOU TO STEER YOUR WORK INTO THE REALM OF JEWELRY AND DO YOU CONTINUE TO COMBINE THE TWO?
I would never give up my photography and still work in black and white film. I am a storyteller so combining photography and jewelry was a natural way for people to tell their stories. A locket can be sexy and mysterious; people wonder who's in it. Charm bracelets represent a string of things that have a story; from photos and dates, to notes and icons. With them, a woman can express herself with things that have meaning.
YOU STARTED YOUR JEWELRY CAREER FORAGING FOR VINTAGE LOCKETS, COMPACTS AND CIGARETTE CASES. WAS THIS THE GENESIS FOR YOUR JEWELRY AND HOME DESIGN?
I collected vintage cases and compacts because I was looking for new and creative ways to display my clients' photos. My husband Rod and I found old molds in Italy and began designing our own pieces from scratch. Then we created the lockets and our pieces became 'bespoke'- one of a kind- when we started added unique gemstones.
YOU CERTAINLY EMBODY NOSTALGIA AND ENJOY GUIDING OTHERS TO EMBRACE THEIR MEMORIES. HAS THIS SENSIBILITY ALWAYS BEEN A PART OF YOU?
Yes. I grew up that way. My parents are European so it was always about heritage, family and culture. Museums, music and theater were a part of my life at an early age. These were normal things. Today I take old things and make them new again. There's something modern about nostalgic pieces.
I KNOW YOU ARE ALL ABOUT 'LIVING WITH WHAT YOU LOVE' BECAUSE IT IS THE TITLE OF YOUR BOOK PUBLISHED LAST YEAR. WHO ARE SOME OF THE TASTE SETTERS THAT HAVE INFLUENCED YOUR SENSE OF STYLE?
I would say Katherine Hepburn, Grace Kelly and Jackie O. They were all so chic. I am also influenced by photographers like Edward Steichen and Alfred Stieglitz, who changed photography for art sake.
YOU'VE CREATED YOUR OWN HEIRLOOM PARADIGM BY DESIGNING TIMELESS PIECES. HOW DO YOU GUIDE BRIDES WHEN CHOOSING WHAT TO WEAR AND CHERISH FOR THEIR WEDDING MEMORIES?
Recently a bride bought a locket and put a photo of her grandparents in it. She was going to wrap it around her bouquet so she could make them a part of her day. Weddings are about tradition- a stage of life, a milestone. Brides cherish wearing or carrying something of emotional value down the aisle.
THAT BEING SAID, WHAT GIFT IDEAS WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE BRIDES AND GROOMS TO CHOOSE FOR THEIR BRIDAL PARTY TO SAY "THANK YOU?"
Your bridal party is made up of people closest to you. They share in the emotions of the day so give them something that is an "emotional package." We have double 'image cases', photo charms and frames. Find old photos of you and that person when you were young; reduce the photo; and slip it in. Never give anything 'empty.' Fill it with meaning, even if it's a written note.
I LOVE YOUR POSTMARK ENVELOPE 'IMAGE CASE' THAT REPLICATES AN ENVELOPE SIMPLY ADDRESSED TO 'LOVE.' WHAT SPARKED THAT PLAYFUL AND ROMANTIC IDEA?
The idea of note writing is a lost art. Silver screen films like, "The Ideal Husband" showed secret envelopes being presented on silver trays, opened with letter openers to reveal hand-written love notes. I imitated it in silver and brides love receiving it with their new name engraved on it. It becomes so personal.
TALK A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR GATE NECKLACE AND HOW THE IDEA OF THIS ICONIC 'REVEAL' CAME TO BE.
The 'Gate' is a modern twist on the locket. There's a photo in my book, "The Fine Art of Family" that shows a girl peeking through an iron gate. People ask me, "Who is that girl?" and "Where is she?" This locket has a gate with the mystery of a photo behind it. All of our jewelry pieces are beautiful and then they have a piece of you.
CHARMS REPRESENT PRECIOUS MOMENTS IN TIME. I TREASURE MY CHILDHOOM CHARM BRACELETS AND WEAR THEM OFTEN. YOUR 'CHARMED LIFE' SERIES OF BRACELETS REPRESENTS JUST THAT. HAVE YOU ALWAYS HAD A PERSONAL LOVE FOR THEM AS WELL?
My mom wore hers her whole life. We could always hear it. The more noise, the better! Every woman should have one. Look at the recent jewelry auction for Elizabeth Taylor. Her charm bracelets sold for unexpected amounts because they were so personal. Her history was strung on it- from notes from her husband to birthdates of her children. Today's charm bracelet is modern and important. Every woman should share a story on her wrist.
[To experience Monica Rich Kosann's collection, visit Simply Selma's at La Promenade in Virginia Beach or visit monicarichkosann.com]
Note From the Editor
From the Editor
Every Picture Tells a Story
On a recent visit with my cousin Wendy, I shared a family secret. Despite my many years devoted to the bridal business and all things wedding, I had never seen a photo of my parents on their wedding day. Needless to say, she was amazed and perplexed that no photo, as far as I knew, even existed. My parents married young- my mother at nineteen, my father at twenty-nine; divorced five years later. According to my mother, the photo album, left behind when she made the move to New York, strangely "disappeared;" and with it, any souvenir of that day, lost. For so many years, I tried to visualize what my parents must have looked like as a 1950's couple, sharing their special day at the Molly Pitcher Hotel. Wendy, not missing a beat, left to visit her mother (my mother's sister) and after foraging through boxes and boxes of family photos, came across only one photo of their day. When a package arrived over the holidays from her, I had no idea what was in it. There it was- a beautifully framed photo of my parents cutting their cake. I stared at the photo in disbelief, taking in every nuance of the composition. I couldn't believe how "Kate Middleton" my mother looked with her long lace sleeves; my father in his mourning coat, indicating an afternoon affair. Most importantly, I realized the significance of this moment shared by my parents- they were happy and in love. After all these years wondering, I was finally able to feel this moment, captured in time.
This issue is full of beautiful moments taken with you, our readers, in mind. Gorgeous gowns, stunning flowers, exciting venues- our pages are packed with endless possibilities to excite and inspire you. Enjoy your wedding planning and remember that one day, someone you love will look at your photos and embrace those moments with their heart.
Kim Wadsworth
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