We are so excited to post our first (of many) Style Sheets to inspire all of the fresh details of a modern wedding event from favor ideas to color palettes, fashion and cuisine. Michael and Anna Costa sent us these beautiful images from Amy + Mike's wedding at El Careyes Beach Resort, a hidden gem on Mexico's gold coast. The Santa Barbara photographers perfectly captured the island casual setting and thoughtful details of the destination wedding.
Our last post on Oslo Press seemed to strike a chord, so we thought we would share a few accessories that complement the wood veneer invitations. Our beloved Martha Stewart is the Princess of Faux Bois, offering everything from beautiful craft supplies to unique wedding cakes decorated in this motif, which literally translated simply means "false wood". (The French translation always adds caché, doesn't it?!) Here are a few more ideas from MSW that will bring out the nature girl in you! ~aloha, robyn
(Photos by Oslo Press and Martha Stewart Living)
If you are looking for wedding invitations that are both "green" and elegant, Oslo Press offers unique sets
that blend wood veneers and pretty cotton papers. Each
invitation is created using a smooth veneer which is laser engraved with Oslo's original
designs. Coordinating pieces such as the reply card and envelopes are printed with a letterpress, which adds even more great texture and a classic touch to this innovative combo. If you are planning to "go green" for your wedding, these designs could be just what you're seeking! ~aloha, robyn
Summer is upon us and we've beachcombed the shelves to find the perfect essentials for a day at the shore. If you're planning your holiday trip you will want to look breezily chic without breaking a sweat. Easy, right? Letarte Swimwear offers the ultimate glam bikinis that put function just as high as style. We trust designer Lisa Letarte Cabrinha, a former pro windsurfer, who puts her wears to the test at her home in Maui. Since you will be covered from the sun, apply Fresh's High Noon Freshface Glow, a sheer easy-to-blend liquid bronzer packed with powerful antioxidants. Just one shade fits all skin tones so it’s impossible to go wrong. Don a classic two-tone straw hat; forever 21 has a cute selection. Glamorous, big shades are a necessity. The Skyla shades by Oliver Peoples are pictured above. Their luxury eyewear features Ivory Shell with Spice Brown Gradient in a flattering upswept shape. Was there life before the Havaiana sandal hit the marketplace? The Chico Flip Flop is fun and exotic. Visit Free People for a great assortment of flats. xo Shaunna
Hula is a captivating dance, famously said to be the heartbeat of Hawai‘i, as it speaks the language of the heart. As a visitor to the islands, you will leave changed forever once you begin to comprehend the depth of the Hawaiian culture. The modern day wedding gives the ancient Hawaiian hula a contemporary stage upon which to perform. Those of you that have watched the graceful and swift movements of the hula know how thrilling the performance is— a true cause for celebration.
In the days leading up to your wedding in Hawaii, a loose itinerary for your guests will give them a chance to intermingle and get a feel for the islands. Brides are always looking for a special way to spend the day with their maids, beyond spa treatments and sun-bathing! We love the idea of getting your girlfriends together for a hula lesson. Sarah Chang, owner of Wanna Hula in Honolulu offers individual and group lessons, performances, and audience participation lessons, always entertaining!
For the bold ones, consider the Ku‘uipo (sweetheart) package, in which Sarah will teach you to dance the hula at your wedding to surprise your husband and thank your loved ones! Otherwise the ladies in the bridal party can enjoy a day of dancing under the sun for your eyes only. xo Shaunna
It's finally time to announce the winner of the Last Word Photo Contest. Like any good race, it was a close one right up until the deadline, with nearly 1,000 user votes in the end! Congratulations to Trailbrook Photography who shot the winning image, It Had To Be You. Reader's remarked "It's classic and elegant — the moment was truly captured", "Now that looks like true love", "elegant, glamorous, stunning!"
The beautiful couple pictured is Kristy and Carlos Valdivia who wed in San Diego last Fall. Look out for the Summer/ Fall 2008 edition on newsstands in July! A sincere thank you to all of the hopeful finalists and to our dedicated readers! 
