Photo by Maria Chang Makeup and Hair by Melissa Hoffmann

We have officially reached 40 weeks folks!  This baby will be here any day now and we couldn't be more excited!  I'll be sure to let you know when she arrives!  After that, I'll be on maternity leave for an extended period of time taking care of our little one.  Thanks so much for all of your kind wishes and thoughts.  I can't wait for this new adventure to start and to meet this baby girl.  

xoxo,

Melanie

As I get ready for my new role as a mom, I have been reflecting a lot on the past 9 months.  I know it's quite cheesy, but they have been some of the best of my life.  I feel so fortunate so have had such a wonderful pregnancy filled with amazing memories and life changing moments I will never forget (but as my mother in law reminds me.... I might eventually forget... so that's why I should write it down).   One of those moments took place while I was in one of my favorite stores.... Target.  It was the weekend of my baby shower and I was picking up a few goodies for my lovely friends who were hosting (best baby shower ever by the way!).  To my surprise my husband and best friend (who lives in Brooklyn) turned the corner and showed up next to me in the candle aisle!  I then stared at them both before I started to cry.  Dani (the bestest friend a girl could ask for) is also pregnant with her first baby boy and I hadn't been able to see her since she found out she was expecting.  So, not only was I completely surprised, but I was so elated to be able to share this time in our lives  in person.  The rest of the weekend was amazing.  We bumped our bumps together, shared in our craving for grapefruit and ice cream (not together, but that could be delicious....), and spent some quality time reveling in the fact that it was the first time our babies were hanging out.  Dani has nicknamed her little boy A.C. Slater after the best character to wear a wrestling uniform in a 1990's television show.  It seemed only appropriate to nickname my baby girl Kelly Kapowski (completely perfect for me since I'm pretty sure she is why I am still rocking a side pony tail) and have been calling our babies A.C. and K.K. since then.  It's weekends like this that I can't wait to share with our children and will always hold close to my heart.  Living far away from your best friends and family has proven to be very challenging for me.  This weekend was the perfect reminder that even though we live far away, friendships like ours don't change, they just get better.  I'm so lucky to have a friend like her, AND on top of it we are getting to go through this life changing experience together.  Love it.

It's also been really fun to get to explore baby web sites for girl AND boy items.  So this is a board dedicated to A.C. Slater filled with my favorite baby boy finds.  And to the Kims... Auntie Lem and Uncle Andy Pants can not WAIT to meet this baby boy.  Kelly Kapowski already has a crush.

Anchor Bib, Knit Fox, Teal Moccasins, Light Saber Rattle, Sunshine Pillow, Adorable Mobile, Doggie Bookends, Elephant Rattle, Striped Onesie

xoxo,

Auntie Mel

Link to these dresses

One of my favorite trends in fashion right now is the ombre trend.  There are so many artistic ways to interpret this trend into your wedding day.  From bridesmaids to centerpieces and everything in between I'm sharing my favorite ombre ideas over at The Collection Event Studio.  Be sure to head on over and check it out!

xoxo,

Melanie

Photo by Sweet Little Photographs

After Monday's engagement post I was getting lots of requests on where to get Ali's look.  Who could blame them?! She looks amazing!  Well, today is your lucky day because I'm about to break it down for ya!  

Dress, Lip Gloss, Earrings, Nail Polish, Luminizer, Heels

Ali's style is clean and classic with a little bit of prep thrown in for good measure.  She loves to look effortlessly chic and (especially due to her incredible height) this style totally suits her.  When Ali and I started talking about outfit ideas for her and Tyler's engagement shoot she had some criteria.  She knew she wanted it to be an elevated version of what she would normally wear, she wanted to show off her legs and she wanted to feel comfortable.  Ali also tends to gravitate towards neutrals which don't always photograph well.  Since we wanted them to stand out among the setting of the Sutro Baths we decided that some color was the way to go.  So the challenge was to find a color that Ali loved and felt great in, that also worked well in photographs.  Ali is also not a huge fan of big accessories.  While she loves a great earring or necklace, they are usually smaller pieces and meant to compliment her style not be the statement.  Since we were "elevating" her look we liked the idea of a dress that had some texture and detail in it to create visual interest without tons of jewelry.

The Dress - This gorgeous Nanette Lepore dress was perfect for Ali because it showed off incredible legs as well  We wanted to show them off in a classy and stylish way.   This dress also was a great color for Ali and the lace detail added the perfect detail without a ton of jewelry.  Ali got this dress from Rent The Runway which is an amazing source for women who have high end taste but who don't want to spend a ton every time they have an event.  You can rent a dress (they send you a few sizes to make sure it fits) for a few days for a fraction of the price!  Such a smart idea.  

Heels - Ali owned a pair of great nude pumps and opted to wear them opposed to getting something new.  I always suggest that if you are going to be in heels for a long period of time, it's better for them to be broken in.  Also, we didn't want anything competing with that dress!  The nude heel also didn't add any lines so her legs weren't cut off and looked even longer!  If you don't own a pair of nude heels, you should probably go shopping right now!  They are so versatile and flattering.  

Earrings - Ali wore the Stella and Dot drop earrings shown above to add a little bit of color and to accentuate her eyes.  They were the perfect way to complete the look.

Makeup - One thing I always suggest to brides who are having their engagement pictures taken is to get their hair and makeup done.  I know it may seem frivolous, but unless you are a whiz at doing your own, it's nice to know you are going to look put together and great without you having to stress.  Ali went to Bare Escentuals to have her makeup done and they did a fabulous job.  She looks like she's glowing!  The makeup has a golden hue and looks very soft and natural.  I'd like to have that look every day!

Hair - Ali had her hair blown out at a Blow Dry Bar near her house.  Blow Dry Bars are the new up and coming thing and I couldn't be a bigger advocate of them.  They are usually very affordable and you always leave feeling fantastic!  Ali started with a soft updo before taking it down for the next look.  She told her hair stylist that she was going to take it down which was important so she knew how to add the bobby pins.  We decided Ali's hair should be up with the Nanette Lepore dress because we didn't want anything to compete with the neckline and it felt cleaner.  

Nails - Since everything except for the dress was light and complimentary Ali decided to go with the Shellac color "Beau".  How fitting!  It's important to have manicured nails ESPECIALLY for engagement pictures because there is a possibility that their will be a lot of photographs featuring your ring or up close shots of your hands.  I'm a huge fan of Shellac because it lasts for so long.  I also think they tend to look more polished (pun intended) because they won't smudge at all when you leave the nail salon.  Like I always say... "Once you Shellac, you never go back!!!"

And there you have it!  Ali's complete look from her engagement pictures broken down for your viewing pleasure.  I didn't mention the most important accessory because it's quite personal to each bride.  But, I should mention that the number one, most important thing in your engagement photos (besides you!!!) is of course your uber attractive fiance. =) The best thing you can do is relax, enjoy your time with your fiance and it will make for killer photos in the end.

xoxo,

Melanie

All Photos By Abi Q Photography

As of today I am 34 weeks pregnant.  I can't even believe I'm typing that!  It's been such an incredible experience and I can't believe this stage is almost coming to an end.  I wanted to have maternity photos taken because I found it really important to document this time in our lives.  I wanted us to be able to look back and remember how amazing this pregnancy has been and how in love we are.  As well as how in love we are with this baby who isn't even born yet.  

After working with Abi Q on this photo shoot, I knew she was the photographer for the job.  Not only is she incredibly talented, a joy to work with and a whiz with light, she also happens to be 9 months pregnant herself!  I loved the fact that while we were shooting we were able to relate on being pregnant and how we have been feeling.  There is something that happens when you come across another pregnant gal.  You instantly connect and there is an unspoken admiration.  It only added to the maternity shoot experience.  I adore her work so much that I knew no matter what, I would love the pictures.  

I have to say, I always love having my photo taken.  I am one of those people who can smile and pose all day long.  But even someone like me can get nervous about taking photos (especially when you are 8 months pregnant!).  Abi made me feel comfortable and confident.  I am also SO glad Andrew was there to be in these photos with me.  Also, I love him in that J Crew gray sweater.  He's glowing, it must be the pregnancy.  ;)

I wanted to share with you a few of my favorites from the session.  I can't wait to frame them and I am so excited that we will be able to show our baby girl these photos in the future.  It's pretty special.

xoxo,

Melanie

I am so excited about today's engagement session that I can hardly contain myself!  Ali and Tyler are two of the sweetest people I know. Oh, and did I mention that they also happen to be two tall drinks of water that look absolutely amazing in everything they put on?  Because that also happens to be true!  Ali and Tyler are that couple that is just too good to be true.  He knows how to fix anything and she can whip up a gourmet meal in a snap.  They also have the most adorable story about how they started dating.  This story includes a chance meeting when Ali was 11 and Ty was 13 and Ali had a mouth full of donuts.  Fast forward to several years later and here they are taking engagement photos with colorful donuts! When you combine an amazing couple who is clearly madly in love and add the incredible photography of Sweet Little Photographs what you have is an out of this world engagement session.  I couldn't be more thrilled that I'm getting to share them with you today!  

Ali and Ty changed into a more casual look later on in the shoot.  I love the pop of green we chose for Ali's top.  It compliments the setting but still makes her stand out. It's always a good idea to bring at least two outfits to an engagement session to make sure you get a few different looks and feels.  We wanted to make sure that even the casual look was elevated and not too "everyday".  I love Ty in that comfy gray sweater and tie.  It's a great way to mix casual and dressed up.  Another way to distinguish two different styles is with hair.  By Ali taking her hair down she was able to get two totally different looks.  So gorg!

Could they be more in love?!  I know, it's the dreamiest engagement session ever.  Can't wait to work with them over the next few months on styling their wedding.  It's going to be so beautiful!  I just can't get enough of these two love birds.  I'll be sharing more on Ali and Ty's look later this week!  

I also want to give an extra shout out to Tim and Merrill of Sweet Little Photographs.  I happen to completely adore these two and highly recommend them to anyone and everyone who is looking for a wedding photographer.  They.are.fantastic.  

xoxo,

Melanie

Photo Credit Abi Q Photography

Talk about a quick change!  As promised, I'm breaking down some of the amazing outfits Sarah wore for her website photo shoot with Abi Q.  Sarah changed several times throughout the shoot and we had each outfit carefully accessorized and planned out for ease.  I broke it down for Sarah into "Outdoor Chic", "Street Style", and "Indoor Cozy".  

For the "Outdoor Chic" Looks we wanted Sarah to feel stylish but comfortable.  Sarah just exudes an easy breezy vibe and it all worked together perfectly!  

Top Row: one, two, three, four  Bottom Row: five, six, seven

Above is our inspiration, and below is some of the reality that came from it.  The results are all that we wanted and more.

For the "Street Style" Looks we wanted to portray a sophisticated yet urban feel.  Sarah has so many sides to her personality that we were able to showcase.  We also added some consistent elements throughout the shoot.  Lots of chambray and denim worn in different ways as well as soft hairstyles were worn throughout the day.  

Top Row: one, two, three, four  Bottom Row: five, six, seven

Love what a chameleon Sarah is!  She literally looks amazing in everything she puts on!  I think it's because her energy is so accepting and confident.  She is the quintessential example of a saying that I always tell my clients.  "If you feel great, you will look great".  It doesn't matter if you love a dress in "theory", if you feel self conscious that comes through.  It's all about the energy you put out!

Lastly, here is the mood board for "Indoor Cozy".  You can tell from these pictures that Sarah felt completely comfortable and in her element.  We went for a pop of color on a cozy sweater but a more fitted jean to show off her fabulous shape.

Top Row: one, two, three Bottom Row: four, five, six

This mood board was my favorite because it really captures the essence of finding beauty in the small things.  Also, how amazing is this picture of Sarah and her hubby?!  I think I know who the cute couple award goes to!

Making these mood boards really helped to give the day clear focus and a common ground for Sarah and us to go shopping.  I love working with entrepreneurs on looks that make them feel like they are portraying their best self.  Shoot me an message on my "Let's Chat" Section and let's collaborate together!  Have a wonderful weekend lovies!

xoxo,

Melanie

Pure Joy

Talking about everything Oscar today on The Collection Event Studio's blog!  Nothing makes me happier than glamorous gowns and Hollywood starlets so go check it out!

xoxo,

Melanie

All Photographs by Abi Q Photography

When I first met Sarah I was instantly inspired.  She is one of those ladies that brings out the best in people.  She manages to motivate others just by being herself.  It's quite infections.  We instantly connected and have been a consistent support in each others lives ever since.  Not only do we work together on several of each other's projects but she just happens to be one of my closest friends.  I know... I'm a pretty lucky gal!  

Sarah decided to take on the task of relaunching her website and I was totally on board to help make it happen.  As Sarah's stylist it was important for us to have a clear vision for how she wanted to be perceived through the internet.  We discussed at length what she had in mind, came up with inspiration images and mood boards and shopped til we dropped.  I will be sharing my exclusive images boards with you on Friday so definitely come back to the blog to check it out.

Once Abi Q signed on board I was even more excited to see this website come together.  I have been a big fan of Abi's work for a long time and I knew she would knock it out of the park.  Of course our favorite makeup artist Melissa Hoffman was there to make Sarah look even more gorgeous!  

We wanted to focus on Sarah's clear message.  Live More, Weigh Less.  We came up with several outfits that made Sarah feel amazing and took photos of her all around the San Francisco area feeling incredible and living her life to the fullest.  I couldn't be happier with how her website has turned out.  I am more proud of her every day.  She is clearly a woman who is going places.  It's always a pleasure to style her for events and photo shoots but this shoot was extra special and I think that comes through in these images.  Or maybe Abi Q is just a genius.  Either way, the end result is pure perfection.  Who wouldn't want to work with her?  

Come back on Friday to get the exclusive mood boards that I made for her to focus her looks and help create an overall feeling for the website.  

Also, for more images check out the incredibly talented Abi Q's blog.  Such beautiful images!

xoxo,

Melanie

A few favorites: Azalea, Lavender, Sierra

There is something about Amy's effortless elegance that always has me swooning.  Her 2013 Collection is no exception.  Not only does an Amy Kuschel gown have impeccable fit, but her fabrics are always a wonderful mixture of timeless class and a little something special.  Exactly what every bride wants!  Which is always what Amy Kuschel's focus is on.  Figuring out what every bride wants, and delivering.  This year's collection has a garden party meets Great Gatsby theme.  What is not to love about that?!  Below are some of my favorites from her 2013 Collection that I can NOT stop thinking about! You really are in for a treat today! You are lucky enough to be getting the exclusive look before it's on Amy Kuschel Bride's website!

Guys, this is Clover.  I kiiiiinda can't stop thinking about how gorgeous it is.  This neckline is not used often enough in wedding gowns and I for one, am glad that Amy has decided to showcase it!  Amy is also one of the only designers I know who has a lot of sleeve options.  This gown has so much to offer any sophisticated and modern bride.

Speaking of sleeves... how delicate and romantic are the sleeves on Meadow?!  I know what you are thinking... "Melanie, the sleeves are great but look at that skirt!"  I know ladies... I know.  It's a real beauty.  Take my word for it, it's even more exquisite in person.

Ladies, meet Dahlia.  Dahlia, meet the world!  I can NOT get over this gown.  The lace panels going down the front are extremely elongating and flattering to the figure.  I am truly loving this sleeve trend we are seeing.  Amy has designed Dahlia top have the perfect lace sleeve.  By having the neckline low in the front and back it is still sexy and not too covered up.  This gown is what I think of when I think of a Boho Glam Disney Princess.  I can't believe I just said that... but I am just SO excited about it it's making me go Disney.  I also happen to love the halo used to accessorize.  I think that is adding to my Boho Disney Princess Fantasy.  Don't you agree?

And then there was Willow.  Willow is giving me something fierce.  The neckline in front is so beautiful and frames her color bones in just the right spot.  Aaaaaand then there is the back.  Brides often forget how important the back of your gown is.  That's the part everyone sees throughout the ceremony and this is one that no one will ever forget.  

I'm going wedding dress shopping with a beautiful bride at Amy Kuschel's San Francisco location this weekend and I can't wait to see some of these stunners on her!  While writing this blog post I found myself saying "This one is my favorite... No wait, THIS one is my favorite!"  It's so hard to choose when each gown has so many details! What about you?  Which one is your favorite?

xoxo,

Melanie