Pastels aren’t only for Easter. Here’s proof that pastel apparel, accessories and more for the bride can be absolutely lovely. We are particularly pleased by stationery in a myriad of pastels (think “thank you” notes for the ‘maids), sweets in light hues for the bridal party and impeccable nails in a tea green or lavender. Ah, lovely!

Hugs, Raya

Image credits, clockwise from top left: Monique Lhuillier gown : BHLDN Marina earrings : Deborah Lippmann polish in Sarah Smile : LaCrasia gloves via Martha Stewart Weddings : love letter sweets by Sweetapolita : shoes by Simply Bloom Photography {via ***} : clutch by Kristin Vining via Mia Von Mink’s Wedding Couture : bouquet via *** : shoes and books images via ***.

Typically a tradition of the American South (though with roots overseas), a groom’s cake has been known to sneak its way onto a wedding reception table in almost any area of the country. A good example of a typical groom’s cake is the one pictured below, snapped by Allison Davis Photography at a vineyard wedding (found via Every Last Detail).

Today’s groom’s cakes are often made of dark chocolate and may contain fruit and liqueur.* Tradition dictates that the groom’s cake is to be boxed up prior to the reception and passed to guests, sometimes only single women, as wedding favors after the reception. In fact, superstition holds that if a single woman sleeps with a slice of that cake that night she’ll dream of her wedding.** But as with so many wedding traditions there are few rules anymore and (mostly) anything goes. The groom’s cake can be served at the rehearsal dinner, as additional cake at the reception or to the bridal party post-reception.

Pros and Cons of having a groom’s cake at the wedding reception:

Pros: (1) It’s a fun gift for a bride to present to the groom. (2) It’s a way for the groom, who’s often overshadowed by the bride, to express his personality and interests. (3) It’s an extra element for a wedding reception (think: another conversation piece, more opportunities for photos). (4) It’s a way to bring humor to the occasion (if humor is what is desired).

Cons: (1) The possible gaudy factor. (2) The additional expense. (3) It’s another thing for the bride to take care of/worry about!

Love, Raya

*Source: Martha Stewart Weddings ** Source: The Knot

Andrea of Strawberry Chic recently created a fabulous “Let Them Eat Cake” theme for her younger sister’s birthday party. It was a cake decorating party with, as she stated, “shabby chic decor, lots of treats and snacks, and of course a personal mini cake and cake platter for each girl to decorate and take home.”

We are head over heels in love with this idea for a bridal shower! What could be better for a cake-loving bride? Supply icing and extras like edible flowers, glitter and more in the bride’s wedding colors. Too, we love how Andrea assembled bite-size sandwiches and snacks and colorful beverages to round out the party fare.

A special thanks goes to Andrea for allowing us to share this fabulous and fun idea! You can see the complete tutorial here.

Hugs, Raya