Merry Christ-Murph!

Introducing Glassbaby

I stumbled across this amazing company based in Seattle, Washington one day and I have been in awe ever since. I've been waiting for the right time to blog about this company. Partially because I wanted to keep this hidden treasure to myself but also, I was struggling for the right way to introduce them... to the 5 people that read my blog! .

I would like to introduce Glassybaby. These beautiful candleholders not only demonstrate impeccable talent in glass blowing but a tough battle with a rare cancer and the journey one woman has walked with grace. Founder Lee Rhodes has a passion for life and other people's hearts that she demonstrates through a multi-layered hand blown process producing a Glassybaby. As her husband states, they "give warmth to a cold day, a clam token of busy in the busy world. And just a Lee was navigating her battle ahead, to her they represent "that deep breath that we often forget to take."

I am just in awe of the beauty this company and family exudes. They create a product that I long to have in our home and the homes of my family. They are a reminder of the fragility of life and one's etnernal flame. If you are looking for a Christmas present with a cause visit their site and check out their "goodwill" page. A portion of the sales from each glassybaby will benefit the selected causes.

In the words of MS, "it's a good thing."

Ever since I was old enough to remember watching Mr. Roger's Neighborhood and he took us on all those cool factory tours I have been intregued with the art of glass blowing. The ultimate for me was when Christina, Lindsey and I were on the glass blowing island of Murano in Italy and we were able to watch a master craftsman at work. This is just as impressive...


What a beautiful decor peice and it does bring a sense of calm doesn't it?


These remind me of our Christmas lights on our tree outside. They just so happen to be the same lights my dad used to hang on our house when I was a little girl. I remember the glow so clearly... nostalgic.


For the cherry on top, Glassybaby has a rental program for your decorating needs- it doesn't get much better than that! Yes it does... you know the flower and wine programs that our out there- sign up for a flavor of the month and they ship you one every 30 days? Glassybaby has programs like this too. I know, phenomenal right?

Enjoy the day and Happy Glassybaby shopping!!

U turn!

I think it is fair to say winter is here in Northern Michigan! We have had a day full of wind, snow, drifting and more wind and snow. We all know how much Murphy loves the snow and how much he loves to play in it, but when it comes close to bed time and he has to "go" it is a different story.



Yes folks, that is what we call a "bee-line to the bathroom!" Murphy walked off the top part of our patio (which was shoveled off 3 hours ago) then onto what would be the lower part of the patio, went potty and then ran back in the house! Now that's what I call a U-Turn- or a "Michigan left" for those familiar with the term. Have a good night and stay warm.

Sneak peak

Before I begin to brag about my amazing 2009 clients I need to thank all of my fabulous clients for 2008! Thank you for all your support and love- you were all a dream to work with and for. I don't think ADIM would be where it is today without each and every one of you all. Thanks Cam & Caitlin, Paul & Kristi, Laura & Mike, Melissa & Nick, Mikki & Jason and Brenna & Jon!

With one season coming to an end the 2009 season has been in full force for quite some time. Here is a sneak preview from a couple of the weddings in progress... I can't reveal too much, afterall I have to have some tricks left up my sleeves!

Enjoy!

This is Jessica and Andrew's save-the-date we designed with the beautiful image provided by the incredibly talented Jen Kroll.


For those that know me I am ga-ga over details, beautiful papers and designs. So, when one of my best friend's Kristin asked me to plan her wedding to her beau Phil I was honored and SO EXCITED. Now this is an ultra sneak peak since this is a preview of their wedding invite however I thought the design came out beautiful. I love the formal yet playful script with the one-of-a-kind monogram!

Gobble, Gobble

On behalf of our small and furry family we'd like to wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Murphy's Manic Monday's

I have quite a few pictures of Murphy since his last post so enjoy these!!

The last time Kyle mowed the yard we had Murph outside with us. I was pulling weeds and Murphy was chasing the mower and then stealing my pile of lawn invaders. Once we came inside I was looking at his paws and broke out laughing- Murph has grass stained paws from the lawn!! The picture doesn't do it justice. The light outside was too dark and an exposure well beyond puppy time was needed thus we resulted to a flash. He really did look part leprechaun and didn't like me laughing at him!!


This was Murph's first real car trip aside from bringing him home in August. We went down to Northwood University for Andrew's car show. Murphy was a definite crowd pleaser with everyone wanting to say hi. Do you think they make doggy coat sanitizer?


As 99.9% of you already know, Michigan lost brutally to Ohio State this weekend. And as most of you know that's my alma mater. To help boost a little team moral and channel Bo's spirit, who must be rolling in his grave (rest in peace), Murphy decided to be the honorary Wolverine mascot we so desperately needed. Don't let the picture fool you. This little guy kept his sweatshirt on all day long and not once did he try to take it off!


With snow actually sticking here Murphy has a new found love with the white stuff. Quite frankly, he cannot get enough of it. He would play outside for hours if we let him. He loves running with his face down in the fluff and digging for mom's frozen tomatoes she tossed out in the weeds for the compost pile... hind sight being 20 20 I should have fenced the compost pile!




More Murphy pictures as the days continue! Thanks for your patience!!

Simply Amazing

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of assisting Jodi Bos and her staff of In Any Event in Grand Rapids for what is assured to be "the wedding of the year." For confidentiality reasons the name of the bride and groom will remain anonymous however the presence they and their guests evoked at the JW Marriot was unmistakable.

Earlier in the year Jen of Jen Kroll Photography mentioned that Jodi had recently booked this amazing wedding. Jen along with celebrity photographer Bob Davis of La Storia Foto (yep, Eva Longoria's photographer) and Ryan Prins of Ryan Prins Photogarphy were all hands on deck for the incredible weekend affair. Larry and Todd Guitar of Special Events Rental in Detroit provided amazing lighting and draping transforming the JW ballroom, made the ceiling disappear and camoflaged their not-so-subtle carpet! Jen with Modern Day Floral is my newest hero. Jodi has sung her praises for a while now and within an instant of seeing her work she deserves a special place in heaven, gorgeous work and such a sweet woman. Unique Tabletop Rentals supplied the stunning placesettings. Bella Figura designed the most stunning paper suite to date- sophisticated, glamourous and passionate- with letterpress you could drool over. John and his staff of Coastline Studios rocked out on the dance floor and produced amazing videography. If you are looking for the most decadent buttercream look no further- Sweet Cakes Design is outstanding. Not to mention their artistry for the mole groom's cake was impressive and adorable! MI Photobooth was present snapping shots of guests throughout the evening and once again the fabulous JW Marriot staff were on top of all details. (For complete vendor information visit Jodi's blog so I am sorry if I have missed you!)

Without futher ado, here are some amazing shots that Jen and her team took from the weekend. Jodi's vision and excusite attention to detail is ambodied in these shots. Congrats to the bride and groom, two of the most lovely individuals I have ever met, and congrats to Jodi- you are incredible!

The sanctuary at LaGrave in Grand Rapids was magical. The sunlight cascaded down the isle as the bridal party entered. Beautiful floral complimented the sacred space and the hand painted isle runner was beautiful.




Inside the JW ballroom for the reception. Tuscan seating with placesettings for a king dazzeled the guests. Not to mention the soft light cast by some 5000 votive candles evoking lovestories of the past.






The crowning glory and whimsy of a nickname.




After dinner guests were asked to join the bride and groom in the club area to dance the night away. Very swanky I may say!


Love this idea, Jodi's assistant Jill designed this icesculpture that played a recurring slideshow of the bride a groom throughout the night.


And what could be better than a helicopter departure to the airport to start the journey of the rest of their lives... phenomenal!


Big, HUGE thanks to Jodi, Jen, Kara, Jill and the rest of the IAE staff for letting me be a part of your team for the day. You all carry your team with grace, style and wear your faith on your sleeve. Thanks again and I am looking forward to the next event with you all!!

Totally MIA

If I could hire someone to blog for me that would be amazing. I love reading other's blogs, surfing the web and scouring for off-the-beaten-track sites but I spend too much of my time there than with ADIM blog!

These past three weeks have been filled with blessings and busyness! Starting tomorrow and every day this week I will post on the highlights. It's in my planner and Berry so I will be reminded each day of my duties (on top of the gazillion-and-on things I need to accomplish).

However I will leave you with a few words about the most recent excitement- "butt bongo!"

Chat soon :)

Our baby...

Our baby isn't so much of a baby any more... Murphy lost his first two teeth this weekend! He won't hold still to let me take a picture and I don't think there is a Puppy Tooth Fairy, nonetheless it is exciting!

Time flies...

If you didn't guess by the sheer lack of blogging activity- things have been very, very busy! I'll be sure to post soon with some actual content and not just stating the obvious. But real quick for a recap of the month since it's almost over...

ADIM is getting great exposure, Murphy is huge, Kyle's growing facial hair because temperatures are falling, our house smells like spiced pumpkin, Michigan football isn't playing so well, I've traveled over 2,000 miles this month, my office looks like a cyclone blew threw and I'm so exited for the holidays!

As I said, I will post soon acknowledging some of the excitement I've encountered!

g'night!

Procrastination

There isn't much that needs to be said about this one... we have all been there before. And some more than others... hilarious!

Murphy's Manic Monday's (...on Tuesday)

This one is short and sweet but with an emphasis on the sweet! Our friends and neighbors the Grant's have five children and no pets. Once we got Murphy it was puppy central around here and Murphy loved, and still loves, ever moment of it. Last week Stephanie brought over their two youngest for lunch and it was the first time that Emma (the baby of the family) got to meet Murph up close and personal...

The hilarious part about this photo is that Emma and Murph are practically the same height!


We all know Murphy loves to give kisses Emma likes to receive them just as much!!

Update the event Photobooth!

While I was day dreaming this morning coming home from a meeting I was thinking of ways to dress up the ever so popular photobooth you see at events. (You're probably thinking that is a really random thought to have!)

Beautiful fabrics and trimmings are popular and the standard photobooth is great- it's creative, it's clean and who doesn't love trying to fit 5 people in them at once?!?! But what about creating custom canvas? How about adding some props?

When I was in Florida a few years back with my girlfriend Laura for the PGA Show we had some time to go to Disney World with another friend of ours Kelly who is lucky enough to work at the "happiest place on earth". This was a picture someone took for us in front of this great backdrop constructed to promote the release of the movie Chronicles of Narnia.



These photobooths/shoots provide perfect cocktail hour entertainment and are meant to be fun and goofy so why not inspire your guests with a themed background and some props to dress up in? You can stick with the event's theme or maybe the bride and grooms favorite vacation spot or the characters to their favorite movie! For an island inspired backdrop take this photo...



Your props could include a snorkle, diving mask, flippers, beach towel, bucket cap and oversize sunglasses. Maybe have a signature cocktail complete with a tiny umbrella to serve at the cocktail hour!

For those movie lovers take this photo of the empire state building (or one like it) and reenact Godzilla or Sleepless in Seattle!


If you have an adventure inspired photo shoot take an aerial shot and use a parachute, some strings attached above the canvas and diving goggles- I bet that would be a great photo montage at the end of the evening- which of your friends do you think would forget to pull the string?!?


And if you are looking for a little something extra to give your guests have your photographer head to the nearest one-hour photo, process the images from the shoot and then pass them out to couples/groups in a fun custom frame at the end of the evening!

Murphy's Manic Monday's

It's that time again folks... it's Murphy's Manic Monday! Since last week I've stepped up and taken oodles of pictures of Murph and his crazy adventures. Aside from watching his belly expand and his legs grow like bean polls, Murphy has reached some pretty significant milestones and given a new meaning to "adventurous."

Within the past two and a half weeks we've only had one accident to pick up (knock on wood Alicia). We've been training Murphy by taking him outside often and rewarding for every "deposit" he leaves behind. For a good week and a half now he has been letting us know when it is time to go- he he! He'll sit by the sliding glass door until we notice him or give us a little bark.

Last week he had just woken up, walked to the door and just sat there. No movement, no whimper, no bark or growl. So I called him over and he just sat in front of me... makes you melt huh!


So I let him outside and took the camera hoping something fun would happen and it did! Apparently we were playing hide-and-go-seek!


After our game he walked to the side of the house in the shade and plopped down again. Now this little guy is no amateur. Since day 1 at his new home he's had a camera in his face and he is beginning to enjoy posing for the camera. But this day he upped the ante! Is there an "America's Top Puppy" show?!?


This weekend was pretty low key so when I was hustling and bustling around the house this morning Murphy was a little taken aback. Normally I do laundry in the evenings when clothes have been worn for the day and I can squeeze in that last pair of jeans. However today I wanted to wash rugs and clothes so I started early. Inspector Murph here, or Agent Snoop as I like to call him, loves to sneak into the closet, grab the socks or shirt and then parade it around the living room like the king of England. To discourage this action we shut the door to the closet and for the most part no problem.

So today, as I was shifting laundry from the dryer to the folding area and the washer to the dryer Murphy got REALLY adventurous and sneaky. He thought he grab something, and he did... all for a used dryer sheet!


And this was for a sock that was left behind!


How did he get in the dryer you ask? Well, he had a little boost but it was all in good fun!! We'll have to wait and see what is in store for Murphy this week but I would guess it would be nothing short of amazing!! I couldn't resist just one last picture of the little guy!!

Inspiration

Ever since I graduated from Michigan I have become a magazine and book junkie! I've always loved to read but with endless pages of textbooks and studying I never had time to read for fun. I can remember walking through Barnes & Noble and Borders for some much needed decompressing and loving every moment in the late afternoons. There is something so exciting about the discovery of a new author or the mystery that lies within the clean ecru pages of a beautifully designed book cover... I can't lie, I pre-judge a book by it's cover- it's horrible.

I would walk past the new release table carefully observing the titles and then proceed to the sale table placed behind, or off to the side, of the new releases. And once I glanced over those books I headed to the fabulous magazine area. When I was a child I remember Highlights magazine and National Geographic for kids. I'm not sure if I ever read an "article" but I made lots of decoupage crafts with cut outs and completed every maze and puzzle!

I love the excitement created by the magazine rack. The glossy cover, bold typeface, beautiful people/things catching your eye as you see hundreds of new issues... it is so overwhelming! I was faced with a major dilemma... do I spend the $4 and get a coffee that I've been craving since 2:00 or do I splurge on $2 more for the new Martha Stewart? Thank you to the fabulous people at B&N, I would buy my coffee and sit in the comfy chairs with a stack of magazines and flip till my hearts content. (Funny thing, when Kyle and I first started dating over 5 and a half years ago, I found out that he used to do the same thing!)

So what's the point of this story? Here it is... now that I "have" time (I use that phrase lightly) I have magazines and books everywhere. I can't tell you how exciting it is to get the mail in the morning and see the new issue of In Style or Everyday Food. What magazines do I subscribe to?
Martha Stewart Living, Real Simple, In Style, Shape, Everyday Food, Travel & Leisure and Domino to name a few. My new favorite magazine is Domino. The magazine is interior design based with elements of luxury, thriftiness, utterly ridiculousness luxury and re-purposing junk- I love it!

While sifting through the pages (the first thing I do with a new mag, then I go back and read) I stumbled upon a name that caught my attention and design that I gravitated to- Ochre. I am not a modern girl by any means but if modern design means beautiful lines, yummy fabrics and creative styling then sign me up. Added bonus, they are a British company and my husband's entire family are Brits.

Here are a few of the pieces that blew me away and check out their chic site for some beautiful peices. FYI there are no prices on the site so be sure to put your "savvy" glasses on before wiping the drool from your keyboard!

Devine Recline corner chair and stool


Arctic Pear Chandelier


Snooze sofa with Light Drizzle Chandelier


These pieces are not only aesthetically beautiful but linguistically beautiful as well- who wouldn't love a "snooze" sofa that looked like this?!

The MacBeth Collection

You all remember Melissa and the fabulous wedding she just celebrated right? (And I promise- I will post pictures from Jen once she get's them done but we must be patient!) Because she is so sweet and such a great friend she passed along a great "thank you" gift that I must share with you all. Now I cannot take credit for her find however I will definitely be shopping here now that I know about them.

Ladies and gentlemen (gentlemen being my husband and dad), allow myself to introduce The MacBeth Collection. When I am at an event I always carry my details on a clip board along with various other things. One of them being my Blackberry and the other a rubber band. You see I use the rubber band to hold the phone to the clipboard allowing me to still flip through my sheets and use my Berry at the same time. Well my old clip board was your standard size and totally boring (clear acrylic). But take a look at the one Melissa got for me... it's Alicia size and it's beautiful!!



Then to go along with the oh-so-fabulous clip board came two sizes of customized notepads complete with "A Day in May" monogramming. I am saving this pretty notes for meetings with potential clients. And I have to hide them for fear they will be used for grocery lists or reminders!

On the site they have a ton of great chic products that can be customized. Check out this cute utensil silhouette tote...

For a bbq, beach party, or tailgate this is great to haul all your goodies in style without having to separate the forks from the knives. For a dinner party dress up the tote with a large silk ribbon bow and some large hydrangea blooms for a stylish and modern centerpiece.

Perhaps my favorite thing about TMC are their amazing design collections. I am a huge pattern and graphic junkie and their designs are bold, feminine, sophisticated and whimsical all at the same time. Here are a few samples but if you want to check out the entire collection click here.



So if you are looking for a fun gift idea, a treat for yourself or some good old fashioned eye candy, check out The MacBeth Collection and indulge! Thank you Mel for the fabulous find and your thoughfullness- love yah!

Gardner-Mood Wedding

Last weekend I had the pleasure of assisting Mikki Gardner and her fiance' Jason Mood with their wedding as their Event Coordinator. Mikki and I were introduced through another vendor earlier when she began the wedding design process trying to find the perfect location for their intimate affair.

The wedding, attended by 87 guests, took place at her parents home on Lake Michigan in Glen Arbor. With the passing of Hurricane Ike, rain was prevelant throughout the day however it was a non-issue. Todd and Larry of Special Events Rental in Warren took care of the foul weather with their great staff and tented the entire terrace and cocktail area, which were to be open for natural beauty. The event tent itself was constructed out over the beach down to Lake Michigan providing 360 degree views of the water.

The grand executer of Mikki's decor vision was Barry from Procedo Events of Grand Rapids. Great combinations of color, texture, light and space transformed the dinner area of the tent as well as the entire homestead. Beautiful Gala apples with sunset dahlias, orchids and calla lillies were the embodiment of understated elegance. The hand crafted willow trees in the corners of the tent adorned with hanging lanterns and floating lanterns above the long guests tables created a Harry Potter effect that was magical.

What would an event be without a wonderful meal? Back on the scene in Northern Michigan, which I am very excited about, is Hanna Bistro of Traverse City. Jim and Rob, along with their staff, prepared a phenomenal meal fit for the perfect Michigan evening. Keep your eyes and ears open for more coming from Hanna's.

After dinner came amazing entertainment I had had the pleasure of seeing this woman perform once before in Detroit and when Mikki and Jason told me that she was to serenade them and their guests for their wedding I was thrilled! Thornetta Davis coined "Detroit's Funky Rockin Blues Diva" is just that! The Thornetta Davis Band brought an energy to the night that was unstoppable. If you happen to be on North or South Manitou last Saturday you were probably able to hear the concert!

Thank you to Mikki and Jason for letting me be apart of such a special occasion. It was greating working with the both of you and I hope that there are more opportunities for Setting the Scene and A Day in May to team up for great events! Congratulations to the new Mr. & Mrs. Jason Mood!

I did not get a chance to take many photos however the talented Blaine Siesser and his assitant were everywhere shooting. Once he has a chance to process his images I'll make sure to post a link to review all the beautiful details of the day. But in the mean time here are a few shots of the details in the dinner tent, enjoy!!

This is taken from the back left corner of the tent. You can see Lake Michigan through the walls and the expansiveness of the room. Wait till you see it under candle light- it was breathtaking!


The perfect combination of containers, candles, flowers and apples dressed up the ivory silk doupioni table linen. Yes that is linen not linens... only one cut of fabric for each table.


The lanterns were various shaps and sizes and placed along the plexiglass shelves hung from the roof of the tent with heavy duty twine. I love all the apples! Barry said he went through four shipments of gala's to find the pefect color to compliment the floral. I love the attention to detail!


Instead of charges at each place setting Mikki chose a rattan basket with a folded dupioni napkin and menu card and a name card with cheese plate placed on top. The glassware was the right combination of modern design and elegant styling and the chivari chairs completed the regal look and dressed the table.


One of my personal favorites were these beautiful shell chandeliers. The funky look in daylight transformed into a thousand dancing shadows once evening fell. The warm light was just enough to illuminate the main walk without stealing the candlelights thunder!


... and like I said once I am able to link to Blaine for more images I will post them immediately. Something funny to leave with... I knew Mikki and I had similar styling from our converstations and meetings but I wasn't prepared to come up to let her know we were ready to begin and see her in the same wedding gown I wore just over a year ago. Yep! Can you believe it!! The beauty of it was that both of us wore the dress completely different and each was stunning... way to go Monique Lhuillier!