Melissa Blackburn

Peace on Earth

2011-12-29T09:48:00.000-07:00

I have a magnet on my fridge that says,

"Do what you can, where you are, with what you have."
It is attributed to Teddy Roosevelt.

I love this quote because it helps make life less overwhelming. There is so much need in the world, it makes me feel a bit hopeless. If I can break it down to this simple quote, I can handle it. I realize that at this point in my life, my influence is this little family of ours. If I can try to help these cute kids, I have done that most important job.

Just for the record, here are the things I am grateful for:

1. Time, this season we have had plenty of it.
2. The lack of snow! I might be most grateful for this. It contributes to the family time we have had this season. The husband hasn't been out all day plowing and controlling the ever oppressive snow.
3. Family and Friends, we feel lucky to have such great people in our lives.
4. Exercise time. This might be a huge contribution to the peace in this house. I have gotten to to hiking almost every day! When I am into a project, that is a rare thing, to be able to exercise.
5. The best and cutest kids we could imagine. Thanks to them, we have a happy and mostly peaceful house.

There are so many more things. But that is what I have been thinking about lately. In a few days, I will be mostly thinking of dresses. I will revel in this moment while I have it. And when I am involved in the dresses, I will revel in that moment.

I hope you can find your worlds full of wonder, peace, and happiness!

Am I crying or laughing?

2011-11-28T22:31:00.001-07:00

Hee Hee Hee. These are just too much! Would it be weird to beg my brides to use this guy for their photographer? To what extent should I go on about this? Are these happy tears? Can I tell you how indebted I feel when I see a good bridal or wedding shoot? It is as if the photographer is doing me the favor. That person is personally making my day, week, and month.

I emailed Scott Jarvie of jarviedigital to tell him how awesome the shoot looked. He gave me some insight that I have touched on in the past, but he said it so very well. He mentioned that it was a fun shoot because Rosalia was amazing and pretty much self sufficient. It gave him the chance to work on some interesting lighting, etc, so the shoot would be THAT MUCH BETTER. Well said.

I feel that the gowns I love the most are for brides that trust me and let me introduce those foreign and chancy ideas. I might not even go there after trying, but just in the trying the gown gets better. It opens up avenues that wouldn't be traveled for fear of the bride thinking I have lost it.

So here they are, the beautiful Rosalia in the dress I didn't want to finish. Now you see why I wanted to keep working on it, right?

Notice how Rosalia uses the veil as her prop. So cool.

Is it the eyes, the lipstick, or both, why does she have that classic Hollywood look?

I love the richness of this room. I have been here, but Scott Jarvie makes it look that much more opulent.

Thank you Rosalia for the opportunity create this gown.

Thank you Jarvie digital for capturing it so well.

Enjoy the day.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-27T20:14:00.000-07:00

It is a quiet moment for a bit. I would like to record for what I am thankful.

My family

My husband

The cute boys

Peace

Joy

Friends

Work

The fact it hasn't snowed too much yet

Silk

Wood stoves

Thai Food, especially the restaurant in Orem on 800 South

Indian Food

Wood stoves (because I am sitting by it right now)

Wood stoves

Bike rides

Hikes

Running

Sewing with the sun coming through the window

NPR

"This American Life"

Love

Peace

and

God

This week could have gone so many different ways. I needed to finish Rosalia's gown. It wasn't one I was happy to have finished, I was having far too much fun with it and working with Rosalia. It consisted of lots and lots of Chantilly lace which was hand sewn onto circle organza pieces. I LOVE to hand sew lace for some demented reason. It takes forever and that is why I love it.

Slade woke up sick on Tuesday night. I was up with him for the rest of the night, poor kid. My plan was to wake early and sew. Well, I was awake, but assisting him in his miserableness, not sewing. The next night he was still sick, so still no sleep for either of us.

Thanksgiving was next. Slade woke at 7:00 A.M. happy and bright. Thankfully he was better. The plan was to have dinner with 20 of our family. If he was sick, it would have changed the feeling of the day. The dinner was perfect. Family and food. Yeah!

That night I knew I had to finish the dress. I stayed up til 3:00 or so, and the reason I am telling you this is because.... I had a great time sewing. I was at peace, I was enjoying the process, and I was making decisions that I didn't regret the next morning. This all happened after two previous nights of not sleeping at all. It seems like it doesn't matter the things you have to accomplish or go through, it is being able to to through those moments in peace. I think that is the blessing of this moment. Because in the end, there are always hard things to get through. I am, by no means ,saying that I am going through a hard moment. I am simply saying that I appreciated being able to enjoy a late night of sewing. Something that isn't usually enjoyed.

Best of all, I just saw the bridals for Rosalia. They are stunning! Hopefully I can post some soon. The perfect ending to a really really great gown making experience.

I guess I am trying to appreciate the sweet moments in life. I hope it makes me feel more grateful. I am wishing you a happy moment in your day.

Best, M

Perfect!

2011-11-08T22:13:00.000-07:00

Sigh, how can I write about this? There is too much to say, so why even start. Yes, this is the reason I haven't blogged about my trip to NYC.

First off, I was able to stay with my friends. It made the trip. Really, it did. I was able to come back to there apartment each night ready for great conversation. When we were out and about, she enlightened me about the architecture and some history of the place. Oh, how I love to know those interesting details.

After a day at the garment district, I decided to walk to the Wall Street protest. So very interesting! My timing was great, because after I got there, they all marched on City Hall. I was impressed by the organization of the protesters and the police force. As we were marching, the police were right there. Lots and lots of them.

There was a woman that was writing the phone number of a lawyer on people's arms. She wasn't happy that I declined her offer. I felt that if something were to happen, all of the others around me would have the number on their arms. I skipped out after a while. Very cool energy and so very interesting.

Here is the reason I couldn't get arrested. Kenneth King and Susan Khalje! Read more about them here: Kenneth or Susan. They were fabulous teachers. I admit, Kenneth is also an over the top story teller. We were entertained while being enlightened about couture sewing techniques! I really suggest this class for anyone who is interested in sewing clothing. It was informative and you will feel right at home with everyone. Everyone was so kind and supportive. Really great experience.

Here is Kenneth with his hair extension and leather coat. He has created some pretty incredible things. Oh, and did I mention he is a funny guy?

Susan is the one with the blue tape measure around her neck. This woman could de-stress any situation or person. I did tease her about her calm and cool demeanor. If she said, "Look at this, I guess you will have to spend 50 hours repairing this mistake." You would be fine with it. It isn't her message, it is in the way she says it.

I did prove to be a distracted student. I have learned that when I take the class again, I can't do it in New York. That place has far too much energy for me to settle down and really get things done. Good thing I am in Utah where there are far fewer distractions:-) For the exception of my cute boys and honey, of course.

The weather was crazy. Sunny one day, snowy the next, then sunny, then snowy. On my last evening I walked til I was wet through. I had someone snap a picture with my phone. Yes, I know I have red eye, but I can't fix it. I am a dressmaker, not so great at computers. I Love the brightness of the night sky there. It is so opposite of my life. I do find it hard to go in and relax, because I will miss something, I know I will.

Well, I got home in time for Halloween and our scary zombies. The biggest culture shock was going outside in the morning and realizing that when I walk out of our house, nothing is moving. No cars, no people, no neighbors. It was a bit shocking. That day my kids were zombies, but I think I was closer to being one, despite the green makeup they wore.

A NYC Trip!

2011-10-09T10:03:00.001-06:00

There is a class I have been wanting to attend for years and years and I am finally making it happen. Susan Khalje teaches couture dressmaking skills. She teaches all over the United States and even takes dressmakers to Paris for more than a week. Can you imagine????

So this means I get to go to New york, collect some interesting fabrics and laces for the upcoming season, and attend a four day class. I have so many questions that need answers and am confident that I will be enlightened by Susan and the Master Pattern Maker Kenneth King.

So if anyone out there has some suggestions on where to eat, what shows to see, or if there are any museum exhibits that are interesting, let me know. I would love your input. The great thing about this trip is I don't need to source anything specific. So I get to just go buy things that are amazing to me. Shopping for fabric is a wonderful pass time. Wish me luck so I can find some special things.

One last note, I get to stay with Viena, Amanda's mom. They came to Utah to have Amanda's dress made last year. Our family became smitten with the two women. I am looking forward to hearing more interesting stories of Viena's life.... because she has had quite an amazing life.

Here is my last thing. If anyone living in New York City needs a dress made at a reduced cost, and has time to go to fitting at the end of this month, contact me.

Have a wonderful day. M

Time off

2011-10-05T21:39:00.000-06:00

I have been blissfully enjoying my fall break.

Enjoying it so much, I haven't bothered to take many pictures. So this entry will be a bit scattered. When are they not?

We went to the desert right before the kids had to go back to school. The husband went with, because he could take off for a bit. Not something that happens in the spring or summer. We hit quite a bit of desert, ending in Zion. Yeah! It IS my favorite place to be. There is a lot of creative energy down there.

When walking to a swimming hole, I was describing to the husband why I love the desert so much. It is so hot, that your back is warmed by the sun and your front is warmed by the heat reflecting off the rocks in front of you. To me, that is the perfect temperature.... something pretty miserable to others.

On the day we had to go back, Hank and I hiked Angel's Landing. I will start tearing up now, for how proud I was of him! The whole time, he was saying, "This is our best adventure ever!" He made it up in an hour and a half. We had a ton of fellow hikers marveling at him. There were even people that wanted pictures with him, to prove to friends that a boy made it up there. So the trip was a success. Lots of swimming holes, lots of great hiking, and all of my little family there to enjoy.

Okay, my next big thing. My dad was planning a trip to Boulder, Colorado, another one of my favorite places. He was going over to help with some projects for my sister's new house. My sister is one of those people that can do wonders for a house. This one is quite compartmentalized.... which is to be expected because it is a 1950's house. So we drove over together and had a great week of working. The kids stayed with papa, which is huge, because I got to just work and not have to make breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You can get a lot done if you eliminate the essential things like fixing food, caring for kids, etc. We had dinner out most nights. I got to sneak in a bike ride or two. All of this in the city of Boulder. I lucked out.

So this is a picture of her living room floor. It was a step down living room. I have nothing against them. I like their retro feel. But we wanted to open up the dinning room and entry way, so it had to be raised up to the rest of the house. Once the walls came down, it made a Huge difference. I don't know if I like anything better than demo and remodeling. My dad is still there, being the great dad. He knows how to do everything. I know how to cut and measure. So the floor job was just right for me:)

I am wishing you a happy fall. The cold is coming on, and for some reason I don't mind.

Oh, it is because I am writing this in front of our new wood burning stove. It is the quirky things that make me happy. I hope you all have a warm and cozy place to hang out.

Kaeli's wedding

2011-10-02T22:58:00.000-06:00

Look at this cute and happy couple! Kaeli talks so sweetly about her fiance, and you can see their giddiness in this image. Here are a few pictures from their cousin, Jonnie Hartman. The funny thing, this isn't the official photographer, but she is is a creative giant.

This woman is amazing. I call her my Pentagon Bride, because of a presentation she made there right before coming out to get her dress made. Yes, she presented there! She is almost done with her PhD. I do enjoy all of the diversity of brides.

I love a weighty hem.

My favorite image of the bunch.

Warmth

2011-09-17T22:00:00.000-06:00

I am a desert girl that lives in the mountains.... and winter is coming on.

I walked out the other day, a perfect day, and it must have been 70 degrees out. It was too cold. I can't tell you how happy it makes me feel to have the hot hot sun shining down on me. 70 degrees is great for the everyone but me, it seems.

Well, here is my fix:-)

We are installing this Jotul stove. Isn't it beautiful? This is what the dream of winter is all about. On those ski vacation promotions you don't see cold and dreary people taking that last run of the day. You see them skiing in the sun and then you see them sipping hot drinks around a roaring fire.

So, thanks to a school system that will teach my kids, I will get to live that dream. Slade is in first grade this year, which means they are both in all day school. Looks like I will get to slip out for an hour and cross country ski again. And in the evening when it is dark here at 5:00, I can help kids with homework around a hot stove. Doesn't that just sound perfect?

So here is to the new stove and a cozy winter!

Plus, this means I get to do some tile work. Here is my excuse to use this great glass and marble tile for the hearth. I do enjoy working with tile. It is such a permanent and non bending material. Sooo very different from my usual medium. I will post pictures if it turns out okay.

Missing

2011-09-11T21:43:00.000-06:00

Here is the set up for this one. I have been working a lot. I have been overwhelmed most of the time. I have seen another summer go away. It is fall. I am sad. I keep imagining that the summer will magically extend itself just by my will alone. My will is not strong enough even though I believe it should be.

Here is the story.

I am standing in the fabric store purchasing some Tiffany Blue embroidery floss, something I needed to complete my last dress of the busy season. A man brings in a little boy. He told the clerk that he saw the boy walking down State street, which is a very busy road. The clerk called the police to report the lost boy. She told the dispatcher that the boy is wearing blue and green P.J.'s, he's about two and a half, and he's blond. I notice he has a cute hair cut. She then sits him on the counter to wait. That is when I started to cry a bit. I was trying hard not to.... the clerk didn't seem to think anything of the situation. I did. I couldn't comprehend how the mother of this little one was feeling at that moment. I did have the slight understanding, though, because I was feeling that way about my boys just then.

Two minutes later the mother rushes into the store. She must have already been working with the police to find her little boy. She hugged him while saying, "you scared me to death." This is where I start to cry out right, without control. Even though I have spent my fair share of time in fabric stores, this crying in them was a first. She told us that he as autism and as she was taking the garbage out, he just took off. It makes sense now, because the boy was very confidently showing me his dinosaur and was not troubled that his mom wasn't around. He was in control of the situation.

This is where I left the store, climbed into my car and cried. This is the season for mourning. Our nation is doing it officially today. The world is mourning in one way or another because of war, drought, financial crisis, natural disasters, etc, etc.

In my little insignificant way, I was feeling this sadness. I miss my little boys. I miss all of the time that hurries by without me appreciating the family I have around me. At least these times give us all a chance to take a look around and decide what is important.

I do hope people find themselves in good places, with people they love. I do. I just now need the time to actually be with those people. I have it now. Phewww! I am looking forward to being a mama and wife and a dressmaker along side.

Good night. M

Oh, how I hope this isn't the silliest of blog entries. I know it might not make sense to any of you. It is what I needed to express. Thanks for humoring me.

Silk organza waves

2011-09-08T21:53:00.000-06:00

Here is the dress I have been holding on to.... for a bit too long. It is a sleek dress with a mess of waves on the bottom. It is funny how chaos is hard to do. It looks like you just put up the ruffles or pleats in a random way, yet it takes hours and hours of tweaking this way or that before it is finished. I was surprised with this dress because the last fitting went so well. I liked it just the way it was. Very rare. Especially for this type.

Wishing you all the best.

Amanda and Paul

2011-09-01T23:39:00.000-06:00

I get to show you all the photos of Amanda and Paul's wedding. Last fall I worked on this dress with Amanda and Vienna, her mom. Amanda flew to Utah from San Fransisco, Vienna flew from NYC. Those women charmed us all... the dogs even liked them. We enjoyed great discussions on religion, movies, culture, and metropolitan life verses our canyon life. All the while figuring, fitting, and creating this gown. Usually I am ultra sensitive about what people will think of the photos. I don't care about this one. The gown is just part of the story here. It is a bigger thing that just the gown.

I blogged earlier about how we got in the car and drove to their wedding. We spent a few days in San Fransisco and afterwards attended their wedding. It was a wonderful trip in so many ways, but culminated in a beautiful evening among the golden hills of California.

I am a dressmaker because I get to meet, discuss, and enjoy the creative process with so many people. I am lucky. Sometimes I even get to make gowns like this one.

Warning: I just put the photos up. I know they don't follow any order. I just wanted to post a quick blog. Forgive me of that. If you would like to see them, and more, presented beautifully, check out Love Bird Photo, the wonderful photographer's site, here.

THIS IS WRITTEN BY AMANDA (in an email a while after her wedding):

"I was thinking about you a few weeks ago. I accompanied a co-worker who was trying on dresses. My friend looked beautiful and she chose the dress, but all I kept thinking was how comparatively empty her experience was. The dress was just an article of clothing. It fit her well, but there was no story, no friendship, no history with it. At that moment, I felt incredibly lucky to have had the unique and special experience of meeting you and the boys.

This is my favorite shot. It has such a classic feel, don't you think?

Amanda and Paul are into stories. This image has so much contained in it. Loving the High five while the ladies are looking at the gown. It does sum up the female and male views of a wedding.

Working from Home

2011-08-06T08:53:00.000-06:00

The kids are still sleeping, it is quiet. I went upstairs to start working on a gown. When I saw the track Slade had set up yesterday while I was working, it made me smile.

I couldn't do this with any other kids. THANKFULLY they have the temperament of their father. It is cute how they carefully go around the mass of silk and tulle when coming through my work area. It is also helpful that they are the type to be glued to the T.V. when it is on. It makes fittings peaceful.... yet those same fittings are sometimes accompanied by the theme song to "Dora the Explorer".

I also get a kick out of their interest. They know details of gowns, they know when one of the gowns is being cantankerous. They especially know when it is a gown pick up day. No matter how hard I try, they are always stressful days. The boys don't mind, because that means they will get crepes later. That is the tradition.

Just thought I would let you in on a quiet moment. I know of many women that work and maintain being a mama. I am always curious about the tricks to making it work. I would love to know about how you do it.

horse hair

2011-07-26T23:19:00.000-06:00

I just had the pleasure of using horse hair. Not a big deal, really, I use it all of the time. This time I brought out the really strong stuff. I imagine Charles James used the same when creating above gown.

I just finished a dress for Annie. She is an artist that lives in D.C. She came home to get married. She came early to get a gown made. I had a great time with this gown. We knew the elements we would use. We just didn't know we would be going so sculptural with it. Thus the horse hair. Do you see how the pictured gown goes in and out in waves. That is thanks to horse hair.... and the genius of Charles James.

Charles James is an interesting character. I discovered his gowns over and over again. They were always the ones that caught my eye when looking through fashion books. I finally figured out that it was the same guy creating all of these works of art. I am not good with names. Anyway, just a brief tidbit about him. He was designing in the 60's and creating quite structured gowns. He was pretty sought after. Then the free flowing, non structured frocks took hold. I think it really set him back. He didn't do as well then. He had such incredible and big gowns. There are quite a few available to see in museums because the women would donate them. Thankfully we have so many to inspire us.

Tragically he died in the Chelsey Hotel of pneumonia in the 80's. I do love his story and I do love his gowns. Funny how I can be so effected by other's work. There is nothing like the old school way of doing things. How I wish could learn it. The more I make gowns the less I know. Why is that?

The other Southern Utah

2011-07-09T11:40:00.000-06:00

My first trip without parents was to the deserts of Southern Utah. We were lucky enough and they were trusting enough to let us road trip in high school. I would go with girl friends who were up for the adventure as much as I was. We hiked big hikes in the morning, in the afternoon we hung out at our favorite swimming hole, and in the evening had dinner at the "Bit and Spur" where we would always have the "Stuffed Jalapenos". The desert always represented freedom and creativity.

There were many many trips down to Zion National Park, Moab, Lake Powell, and anywhere else with red rock. I have done it with the kids as well, and for the most part, those trips were good. The feeling of freedom was a bit hampered because of the young babies and toddlers they were.... until now. It seems I have just inherited two really great travel companions. If I play my cards right, I might even get to do long, hard hikes with these two in the next few years.

So here are a few pictures of the trip. I know it is boring for you all... but I do have family who check this blog, and they would like to see pictures of the growing boys.

Can you see Hank in the distance? We did this hike right after a thunderstorm moved through. There is nothing like hot sandstone and fresh rain. The smell is heavenly.

Here is their first taste of slot canyons.

I had to make them turn back so we wouldn't be hiking in the dark. For you mama's out there, you know that is significant.

Here is the last hike before we had to go home.

A plug for Capital Reef.

It is beautiful.

It is a higher elevation, so cooler than Zion or Moab during the hot summer months.

It has great swimming holes.

The nearby town of Torrey is quaint.

It is about 3.5 hours from Provo area.

It has great art and a wonderful bookstore in Torrey.

It made me sad to leave.

2011-06-25T21:20:00.000-06:00

I love how well this beautiful day was captured by jacque lynn. Ginnie looks stunning, of course. The day seems a bit magical. Especially if you live here and have experienced our spring. I think it must have been the one day that was not raining and overcast for that month.

Perfectly in bloom purple blossoms. Really? It is almost an old Hollywood set, it is just too right.

Of course I don't know the groom. But this is Ginnie all the way. So happy and in the moment. She had that enthusiasm even at dress fittings.

I also loved working with Ginnie's family. They were all so cute. Even the dad. Can I call a dad cute?

I love this detail on the huge doors of the Temple. I am into details.

I am posting more than my share of photos on this one. Are these flowers just the most beautiful things you have seen? If you want to see more check out Sarah Winward. You need to see her blog. I loved loved loved all of her arrangements! So fresh and yummy.

The venue was at the Eldredge Manor. Sweet red brick home.
This is my all time favorite ring shot..... ever.

Congratulations! It seems a great start to a new life together.

Ginnie's Gown

2011-06-18T21:40:00.002-06:00

I made a reference about my "slight" bride a bit ago. I think I was happy about how this dress was acting. It seemed to be easy on me. Thankfully.

Well, here are a few images of Ginnie on her wedding day. I enjoyed working on this project. It had a lot of lace work, which always gets me in a good mood. I love watching the lace effortlessly make the bodice structured and smooth.

Ginnie was an absolute delight. Talk about a happy attitude. It seems like that describes all of my brides. I am lucky.

The photographer is Jacque Lynn , she also did Abi's photos. It is great to discover new people and see their work. I am looking forward to posting more of her beautiful images in a bit. "In a bit" might mean after the summer season. Once we all come up for air.
Hope you are all in a good place. I have had a wonderful day stitching away. This new dress I am working on is taking me back to the simple pleasure of one fabric. Yep, nothing fussy. Just beautiful silk taffeta. Working with silk is why I am involved in this pursuit. I wouldn't be doing it if I couldn't work with these great textiles. Have you ever listened to the sound of silk taffeta. It is noisy. It is noisy in a perfect way. Listen next time. Now I really do sound crazy.

Wishing you well, M

Elie Saab, enough said.

2011-06-13T21:09:00.001-06:00

"Love of beauty is taste. The creation of beauty is art."
-Ralph Waldo Emerson

I read this quote today and thought of Elie Saab's insanely beautiful gowns. Here is a small sample of his breathtaking, awe-inspiring, bring tears to my eyes, gowns. I have no words.

I love that there is always something better to strive for. I love that every day I can try harder and never even come close to someone like this. It is THIS that keeps us all going. Otherwise, what is the point.

I so would love to know what inspires you.

Summer with The Mug

2011-06-09T08:55:00.000-06:00

The kids beg to play WII, they also want candy. The thing they plead for the most is a visit to the canyon's local shaved ice stand, The Mug. It is finally warm enough to get some shaved ice. I imagine this will be a bi-weekly thing for us. Far less than they would want it. Still a good tradition.

When I was young, it was "The Purple Turtle". It is the old school shake place in Pleasant Grove. You can still get great shakes there and Tater Tots. Are tater tots a Utah thing? Okay, my other question. What are your summer traditions? I don't want to miss out on anything. Let me know.

Abi and Dave

2011-05-27T21:51:00.001-06:00

If you have read my blog lately, you know I have been involved in a project for Abi. Well, here it is. Deep breath.... what do you think?

Abi, thanks for being so trusting and open. Thanks for letting me get crazy with the texture. It is rare to get to do whatever I want for a bride. It is the ultimate situation but daunting non the less.

These beautiful photos are done by Jacque Lynn, you can check out her blog here. I do love how intimate and surreal these images turned out.

Am I Crazy?

2011-05-22T00:46:00.000-06:00

Some dresses speak easily about what they want to be. They drape this way or that and let me know how we should proceed. Others I stubbornly decide for it. I am not saying one method is better than the other. They are just my realities.

I am working on Jenny's dress. She came with one idea, but during the first fitting, we were playing with the skirt fabric and it did some cool things.... which led us in a different direction than planned. I feel the new way is insanely beautiful and opens up so many opportunities to make a "gown" instead of a "dress".

Then there is Abi's dress. Anyone who knows me, knows I will be very boring until this project is done. I am not saying that I am interesting when I am not working on such a project, I am just extra boring when I am in an obsessive moment like this one.

It is the end. I get to bead tomorrow all day and hope for the best. This is the skirt laying on our chair. I do love it when it is in a heap. I just hope I can love it when it is attached to the bodice like a proper gown. This dress has the potential to be greeted with open arms by those who see it. It is also a departure from the norm.... which I love.... but which others might not "get".

I hope you all have a good night. I shall dream about Swarovski crystals and over sized vintage pearls. Maybe I will come up with something perfect for the flowers while sleeping. I get lucky like that sometimes.

Grateful and a bit tired

2011-05-16T21:56:00.000-06:00

I am coming to you with two hours of sleep from last night.

I keep trying to make sense of this blog, but have mostly been using the delete key. A good indication that I should just quit and watch the latest Masterpiece Theater that is recorded for me and just waiting.

I finished Sarah's dress which I now love. More on her when I get some photos to post.

I finished Abi's dress so she could do a video shoot. I will be beading and tweaking it after the shoot.  I let the dress go without seeing it on. I NEVER do that. I need to learn how to relax and not take this all so seriously. That will never happen, I fear.

It has been an intense week. When I am this busy, I appreciate my honey and two boys that much more.  I have such a supportive husband. He has to listen to me stew about this netting or that organza. He has to watch "The Amazing Race" while the serger is going full blast. He takes such great care of the kids and never complains.  My little family handles fittings, fabric, and a barrage of pins on the floor without even a thought. I am so grateful for them.

I do love this occupation. I will be swimming through these next few months and hopefully will come up for air in August. Oh, but how I am enjoying the ride. I am loving each style of dress and I can't get over the kind and happy people I get to interact with in the creation of the dresses. Right now I am just loving what I am doing without a thought to that something better around the corner. I am around that corner and working on that something better.

I better stop. The lack of sleep is making me a bit too nostalgic.

Good day all.

Gathering

2011-05-04T21:25:00.000-06:00

I was up late last night sewing, and inevitably that makes me dream about sewing all night. This morning I woke excited to get to work. I imagine it was because dreaming about sewing doesn't accomplish anything. By waking, I knew I could actually make head way into my projects.

Above are a few pictures of what will happen on the Abi dress. We are mixing lace and rushing together on the bodice. The skirt will be a textured concoction. I can't wait to be surprised by this one, it is any ones guess to how the skirt will turn out.

Funny thing. Abi was here tonight. She is on her way to Moab tomorrow and we were struggling with something about the dress. I didn't think we would resolve it tonight but I didn't want her going off on a road trip worried about it. Come to think about it, it would stress me out more than her, I think. We didn't want it to be too costumy. So you would think we would simplify it to help it look more modern and less costumy. Crazy thing is, we Added, and that fixed the problem. Go figure. Just goes to show you need an open mind in this process!

Now for the second half of this blog. While doing a slight gather to yards and yards of fabric, I thought, I will share this trick to whoever would like. I love my gathering foot, but it gathers quite enthusiastically. When I want just a slight gather, I simply change my tension on my machine. It doesn't matter which way, just put the dial to one extreme or another. Then lengthen the stitch length and have at it. It should gather a bit. I might even hold the fabric behind the foot just to encourage gathering. If it doesn't gather, it is still easier to gather after the fact. Just grab the looser thread and pull.

Pardon me if this doesn't make any sense at all. It is my first try at explaining something without just showing you. Next time I will take more photos which would equal less words, and we all know that would be better.

Natalie and Rick's Groomals

2011-04-30T22:50:00.003-06:00

Ashlee Raubach did such a wonderful job on this shoot. I love a photographer who will capture the folds and details of the dress. I know I say it a lot, but it is so important to me. You should check out the rest of the shoot on this blog. Really great work.

I love the richness of the location. I love the warm tones on the photographs. But especially, I love the cute couple. No, they are more than just cute. They look perfect together.

Here is the long rambling story that sort of has to do with this dress. I was at the dentist waiting for my kids and, of course, I was hand sewing. It was quite pleasant. With the help of the dentist, I was multitasking. In walked Zina, this really fabulous person from High School. She asked me about the Knit dress. It was surreal that she knew about the dress. It was serendipitous to run into someone and already know how she was doing because of her blog, and to have her know how I was fairing made me feel so... not alone, for lack of better words.

I love to see these shoots. I can now relax about the knit dress because Natalie wears the gown well. Do you all like the different gown idea? Of course I am always happy when a bride re-invents how a bride should look. I think it reads bridal from the simple veil to the shoes. Great job Natalie.

Wedding Day!

2011-04-29T22:32:00.000-06:00

We have heard about this beautiful event all day. It is a wonderful thing to have something happy and joyful to think about compared to the normal news of the day. So I wish the couple a wondrous and happy life.

Now let us speak of the dress.

If you have a design house making your dress, every detail is sweated over, talked about, discussed for hours, slept on. They have a goal in mind, they have a concept, a feeling. I wonder if that is what came across? I do have a feeling that someone wanted the dress not to be over done. Yep, they accomplished that. I also wonder about the delicate size of the lace. Whose decision was that? Did they have all sorts of lace layed out and Kate said, "can we get something made like this one?"

The best part of this dress is the bodice. The structure is perfect. Oh, how I wish I could spend some time in one of these design houses. What a dream it would be to learn, learn, learn. There are so many things I would love to know.

I am a bit sad that she didn't go a little more crazy with the design. Heaven knows Alexander McQueen's house is capable of going over the top. But before I share too much of my opinion, I would love to hear your thoughts.

One Down

2011-04-22T17:29:00.000-06:00

Happy Earth Day! Photos by Jamie.

I am not doing anything special as far as being environmentally active, BUT, I did finish Ginnie's dress. Yeah! This dress worked well with me. I didn't have to re-make anything. I just got to go forward with it. I also spent quite a few days sewing on the lace, which always gets me in a euphoric state. Lace can be such a friend of the dress maker. It can make a bodice look quite precise.

Ginnie was so layed back during the process.... even though she is getting married next week! Come to think of it, when I do work with a bride with such a close deadline, they are always mellow and calm. Does something happen to a bride so close to the date? I am convinced that they have some chemical pumping through their veins that make them just happy and content.

I love these theories I invent.

I wish you all a happy Earth Day. Our earth around us has been sprouting up springs left and right. It is pretty amazing and powerful. Oh, and I think the forecast calls for rain.

Heidi and the Knotty Bride Blog

2011-04-15T21:36:00.002-06:00

I can't keep up with this girl. In this world of blogs, Heidi has gained some noteriety. Or in the words of Hank, my little guy, she is famous. If you haven't seen these photos of Heidi, check them out here at the knotty bride.

Thai food and the spa

2011-04-14T22:35:00.000-06:00

All is well.

I dropped off the kids at our 15 year old skater, drum player, snowboarder, and kid tender's house. Why do we think girls need to be the care taker of our kids.... especially when said kids idolize the cool guy that teaches them to skate?

With that done, I dropped off a knit dress that I have been working on, and THEN met my friend for lunch. We had Thai food. It was insane. I love the soup and think it has healing powers beyond my comprehension. Michele had never had mango with sticky rice. Crazy huh?

Well, I was frustrated, because despite the soups best efforts, I still felt lousy.

I took matters into my own hands and retreated to......

I have had my hair cut there a few times but had never visited the spa. Who knew? It was perfect. I am not the massage getting type, but dang, that solved all of my problems. Diana was the massage therapist. I highly recommend her to any one of you. She works hard and gets to the root of the problem.

I feel a bit dorky writing about this. But I feel so normal (normal for me, come on, everything is relative). I need to celebrate my new found outlook on life.

Okay, I think the real thing comes back to sewing. Here is the rest of the story.

I took on a knit dress. Not my thing. I think I mentioned it a bit ago. I knew it would be a challenge, and like all dresses, it was. The bride was patient with me, thankfully, and in the end, I think things worked out. I was worried by the end if it that I lost all capabilities to make dresses. It seems like the knit dress and I could not communicate. I don't talk knit.

The wonderful and great thing that happened is this. I had a fitting for my "Slight" bride. She is doing a frothy dress. I love it. It consists of Taffeta, organza, my favorite Chantilly lace, and tulle. These are all well loved ingredients and I know how they will be honory with me and how they will delight me. Who talks like this about fabrics? Me, I guess. The fitting went surprisingly well. Remember at this point I was questioning any ability I once had. The next morning during another fitting, the bodice surprised me about how well it fit. Such a relief!

I feel like I am in my realm again.

I am optimistically looking into the next few months with excitement and my fingers crossed. I love that there are dresses planned that will take directions that no one knows. I am relieved that I am up to the challenge and looking forward to it.

Will the storm now leave!

2011-04-10T17:53:00.000-06:00

First off, isn't this picture so painterly? I love a good oil painting of clouds. It seems like Jamie, the photographer, captured that same feeling. I hope you all like it as well. Check out her blog here. I love her peaceful images and interesting take on the world she sees.

Here is where the self centered post begins. It is the busy season. I feel like I will be diving into an ocean of work... "will be" being the operative word. I need to be drowning in silk and tulle and late late nights. I haven't. I got sick.  Not just a day of down time but a weeks worth of down time. Dang. I want to be so overwhelmed that I just get a ton done. Not in the cards.

Not only do I feel yucky but the weather is bad. Yes, snow and slush and overcast skies. Come on, it is April! So I have time to stress that I am not getting anything done yet I don't have the physical capabilities to do anything.  Let's add on the feeling of being pretty out there as far as geography. When I step out of the house for fresh air, my main worry is cougar or some other predator getting me. I don't need to worry about the neighbors seeing me in my jammies. Maybe I would rather worry about the neighbors than a wild animal.  I love where I live, but when I am sick, it seems way too far away from the grocery store or the nearest neighbor.

Anyway, we went down to town for church today. One of my sweet friends gave me a hug right at my breaking point. So I cried. I couldn't help it. I swear, though, that crying really can help.  I imagine it must release some great chemical that makes everything okay.  Of course I was surrounded by great women that I call my friends.  So we had a short counseling session and discussed how it will be okay.... and it will be. In a minute.

In a way, it is better already.  I am sitting in the sun, peacefully, without the weight of wedding gowns on me.... Wait, that part about me sitting here without the weight. Well, that isn't really true. The weight I feel is just less than before. More of a handle-able level.

What I really really want is to make each one of these upcoming dresses so cool. I want to love each and every one of them. Even their imperfections that hopefully only I can see. Could I achieve this? I will have to let you know.

Thanks for listening. I promise to quit posting depressing posts. M

Why do I do this?

2011-04-04T21:56:00.001-06:00

This weekend I made flowers. Lots and lots of flowers. I hated them, not all of them individually, but all of them as a whole. I hated everything I was trying to do for this dress. This is normal. I go through this with all of my dresses at some point. BUT, the dresses I really really want to be over the top crazy cool, well, I go through a lot more of the hate before the pay off happens.

So this dress is for Abi, someone I have known for a long time. She has got to be the happiest person I know. She also is willing to go big with this thing. If I have a willing bride, I try to take advantage of the situation.

So the pressure is on.

I love the pressure.... today.
I hated the pressure yesterday.

So I spend two full days of obsessing over the dress before I finally tore myself away from it. We went "down to town" which sounds so country. While coming home it dawned on me which direction to take. I worked on it this morning and, wala, I surprised myself. It has to do with the way the lace looks on these ruffley things I made. It has a sweet but modern look to it. The flowers I hated for the last few days have now taken a back seat to this new thing. Now I don't hate the flowers. The are not the big design feature. They are the whip cream that could be omitted if desired.

While I was frustrated and moody, I called my friend Michele. She is a creative genius and knows what I was feeling. I think I have talked her down before as well.  She simply stated, "It is the mother of creativity" or some sort of thing. So of course I took that as literally the pain you go though becoming a mother. Stay with me on this one. You have to go through a lot of pain and you have to learn to be patient when becoming a mother. I guess the same goes for creating something else. Patience is key with dress making AND most every dress I create has a pain stage.

I wonder if anyone else has these experiences while creating. I worry if I just don't get it. Maybe I need to learn to ride with the waves instead of swimming up stream.  I think, in the end, swimming up stream brings the best results for me.  I wonder if some people out there create while floating down a moderate river, with the sun on their backs, and sipping a tropical drink.

This would be a great time to comment. I am curious to know what you all think.

BYU Bridal Guide with Heidi's Dress

2011-03-24T19:24:00.001-06:00

The other day I received a bunch of emails from Amelia Lyon, the fabulous photographer who did Heidi's pictures. She forwarded her responses to a whole lot of brides that wanted my info. A big THANK YOU goes out to her. Here is the story of why.

BYU's Bridal Guide used her picture of Heidi for a "The Dress" page. It is the page that explains various terms of dress styles, etc. You all know that page in dress magazines.  They credited the photographers but didn't think to put my name on the page.  No problem, thankfully Amelia passed on the info.

Well, I decided to meet the people that put the magazine together. I have always been curious about the publication.  So I thought it was the perfect excuse to introduce myself. I know it is silly, but I am so glad I did. I had a great conversation with Warren, the person in charge of the magazine, probably the most jovial person I have ever met. He laughs with gusto, it makes me smile even now.

We got to talk about wedding dresses. It was interesting to hear his take on the whole thing.  We discussed the ins and outs of LDS wedding dresses. For those of you outside of this culture, there are many guidelines you have to meet to wear a wedding dress that is appropriate. Thus, most of the dresses you will see on this blog have sleeves and a more conservative neck line. My question for those of you who are LDS. Do you care if you wear the dress to the ceremony, or would you rather have a dress that is silk white or cream? Would you rather have the over the top gown or go with one appropriate for the ceremony?  I usually avoid talking about this type of thing, but that is what a trip to BYU does to me.

So that was the experience with the BYU bridal magazine and the happy people that run it. The good news, Warren told me that they have had a big response to the dress. I credit that to Heidi's open mind while making the dress and her genius choice of photographers. I still can't get over the perfectness of that shoot!

Inspiration

2011-03-18T21:34:00.000-06:00

I want to talk about inspiration while driving.

I didn't have an appropriate photo for that subject, so I just threw up the decomposed necklaces used on Heidi's dress. If anything, I am random. More of her dress here.

Okay, so the first ticket I received for speeding was in high school. The officer was in plain sight. I could have slowed down, but I was busy looking at the side slit thing found on my polo shirt hem. Does anyone know the official name for those things? I was on my way to school where I was going to tackle my first long sleeved polo shirt. I am old, they were cool then.

Well, I got the ticket, but I did figure out how to do it at that moment. Worth it? Probably not.

Well, yesterday I was on my way to pick up my little guy from school. I just finished with a fitting for a knit dress. A completely different textile than my norm. The bride knew that and hopefully also knew that it would take me a bit to do it correctly. The fit was great but I didn't like where the darts were ending up. I could have made it work because of the rushing over the darts, but I am one of those crazy people that can't sleep if certain details are not right. So on the way down the canyon, inspiration hit. I figured out how to re-do the pattern to eliminate those darts. I LOVE it when that happens. If you think about it enough, and you are lucky, inspiration will save the day. Disclaimer, the solutions are usually so simple and beautiful, they should have been there all along. It's just not how it works though.

At that moment life was perfect. I also knew I could change it completely and still have enough fabric. Oh, and I think I was listening to a really good song on the radio. That always helps.

So the lesson:

I am not afraid of changing it or starting over. I think this happened slowly. I know the first time I had to change something I was so frustrated. I wanted to start on the change the next day. I didn't, I did it right then, and I discovered it didn't take that long. Since then I have changed, re-invented, started over, or just stewed over a detail for way to long. I think I like it now. It is part of the conquering of the dress. That sounds harsh. Okay, it is part of the evolution of the dress. It's a process I have learned to enjoy and can't get enough of, it seems.

This post is for Jeanette, my awesome sister that thinks I should "describe the process" more. I am going with it, because I have no clue to what people want to see on this silly blog.

Who needs this?

2011-03-14T21:01:00.000-06:00

I received three packages today, it felt like Christmas! The one from Europe is the one I am obsessing over. So now I just need to find a bride that loves it as much as I do. What do you think?

When I go fabric shopping I make a lot of stupid decisions. This piece makes all of those other decisions worth it. It holds it's own but could be embellished to make something frothy and delightful. (Did I just say "delightful"?)

So I will wait patiently til I meet the right person for this piece. I love this game of matching.

Rain melts snow

2011-03-12T21:33:00.000-07:00

I couldn't post these photos until I knew it would be over. The white winter wonderland will be followed by mud and rain and a few scattered days of warmth. Funny how I view the latter as the better option.

There is a good chance it will snow again, but I don't care, because today it rained.

It rained and melted some snow. We are still looking at feet and feet of snow, but we are on our way. In the valley I smelled wet dirt, which is a measly 20 minutes away. In the valley you can walk or run or ride a bike unencumbered by this....

Look, there's the husband. I am always so happy that he deals with this aspect and I can just sit on the front porch eating bon bons. Dang, I keep meaning to try bon bon's out. Are they any good? Okay, maybe I am snacking on some really beautiful dark chocolate.

Bring on the dry heat of Utah and the long summer nights.

silk trip

2011-03-09T18:31:00.000-07:00

Just a little hello. We came back from a wonderful trip to L.A. I bought some awful lace and some insanely perfect lace. I bought too much shantung silk.... I make wedding dresses, why all of the color? Oh, because it is so good, you almost want to eat the stuff.

I love when the garment district guys say, "I am loosing money on this for you, loosing money!" That was by far my favorite phrase.

It was great to see my dad's reaction to the district. I think he was a bit overwhelmed. Don't tell him I said that. He would flatly deny it.

Have a wonderful day. Hopefully I will post a few pictures later.

L.A. Garment District

2011-03-02T21:18:00.000-07:00

Today I ask for help.

It looks like I will head to the Garment District for some much needed creative buying. It is funny how I can justify traveling for the sake of fabric and trims. I will always be this way.

The last time I was in L.A., my sister and I met there to hit the textile show. Being the people we are, we decided to walk to the show. So we exited our Korean Hotel (we were the only "English as first language" people there) and started walking to the "tall buildings" in the distance. In our little experience, big cities have one area with tall buildings. The first set of buildings turned out not to be our destination. There were others in the far distance. I guess we didn't see them due to the curvature of the earth. Go figure. We walked and walked and walked like the true pioneer stalk we are. It was a very hot day, which was to our benefit, because come to find out, we were in a questionable part of town. Lucky for us, on that hot hot day, no one had the energy to pester two girls walking where we shouldn't have. We finally had to get a cab, because we were on the wrong side of a major freeway. For the record, we almost made it there.

Of course the rest of the trip was just as memorable as the walk. My sister got to see the "other side" of me. I guess I can be quite shrewed while dealing with fabric reps. We dinned on beautiful food that night, found more fabric the next day, and flew out.

So now I will be returning. I don't know my way around the L.A. market. NYC's Garment District is much more familiar to me. Does anyone have a favorite place there? Is there some breathtaking restaurant we need to try? I imagine SOMEONE knows SOMETHING about the area. I would love some input!

Funny Face with Audrey Hepburn

2011-02-12T00:05:00.000-07:00

Funny Face has got to be one of my favorite movies... for the costumes, cast, and overall wonderfulness of it. Is that a word? Probably not.

I would love to talk about Audrey Hepburn, but she is such a legend, I really couldn't do her justice. The woman behind these costumes is pretty legendary as well. But only tonight did I put two and two together. The designer of this movie and so many others, is Edith Head. Who knew? Well, I didn't.

I feel like I haven't thrown around my respect the way I should. I should KNOW who did this movie. How terrible that I didn't. I have watched it enough. I know just what the wedding dress looks like as Audrey dances with Fred on the banks of the Seine. Is that where they danced? I know this image of Audrey going down the steps in the Louvre with this insanely breathtaking gown. But I didn't know who was behind these creations. Shame on me. I now know what I will be reading up on in the next few days.

This is where this post turns from Audrey and gowns to my random life.

I just had a wonderful night with the boys. We went to a perfect wedding lunch for Brittany. Pictures will be posted later. It was great to go to the event. It is nice to see the dress on the day and I loved that I got to talk to a few previous brides and some moms. I am lucky to work with such kind and happy people! After that, we walked around SLC. When it was time to go back to the car, Hank was quite sad about it and wanted to keep exploring. I bribed him with the promise of a mango lassie at one of our Indian restaurants. So the end of the night included watching Indian music videos, eating chicken Marsala, and sipping on our own mango lassies. I don't know how it could get any better.

Ali's gown

2011-02-08T19:35:00.002-07:00

This is Ali. She is a classic bride from Salt Lake City. She wanted to stay simple and classic with some detail that made it her own. Thus the tie-bow thing.

This was not how we started. She came to me with something completely different in mind. We were going to figure out how to do texture on her sleeves. This concept, I knew, would be hard to pull off. Thankfully I warned her about my feelings. Alas, I wasn't able to come through with that idea. But, she was open and willing to try something new. She did a bit of brainstorming, as did I, and we came back with ideas that meshed together to make this. It is interesting to me to see the course each dress takes. I can never predict how they will end up.

This photo shoot was done by Miyo Strong with Busath. I have seen her work in the past and love it. She is classic. I love her black and white photography the most! I imagine you will agree.

This lace also has a story. I discovered it at Britex, in San Francisco. For those who have been there, you understand. I imagine it is one of the most beautiful fabric stores in the U.S. The store is old school. It has wood floors, seemingly original counters, shelving, and windows. There are floors and floors of silks, linens, notions, laces, wools, and anything else you might be craving. San Fransisco has a lot to offer, but for seamstresses, this store is the main event.

This is a case of saving the best for last. Do you love this image. I do! Thanks Miyo and Ali.

The Heidi Dress

2011-02-01T21:13:00.000-07:00

This photo shoot just jumped out of the computer and smacked me upside the head. I am still recovering from it. You will understand after you browse through these __________ photos. There are no words. They are too good for words. Yep, I keep trying to describe them, and I just keep deleting. No words.

If you would like to see more of this wonderful moment, check out Amelia Lyon's blog. I am sure you will be blown away along with everyone else that visits there.

The few thoughts I would like to share. Heidi was so great to work with, she suffered from a bit of over share on my part. She is the type of person you want to tell all to.... which I probably did. She knows way too many of my quirks. She even knows my political ideals, not something I tell many people, seeing as I live in Utah.

I am excited to find out what happens to this couple, you know they will end up involved in something completely glamorous.

Cute candid moment... I love how she framed this image. I am into the mid century modern motif found on the temple wall. I wonder what I would have thought of it ten years ago?

Who has been watching the Masterpiece Classics? I am currently regretting that Downton Park is already over with, sigh. Doesn't this look like an image of that type of movie?

Again, another movie sequence... right.... don't you think?

This one of Heidi is my favorite. I love the abstract quality. It is so painterly. (Is that a word and did I spell it correctly?)

Yes, that made me tear up as well. So sweet.

Okay, so the couple looking at Heidi and Jeff is Malorie and her Husband (as of this summer). I made Malorie's dress, so I am so curious about what they are looking at. What do you think? Hopefully Malorie will leave a comment and enlighten us all.

Thank you Heidi and Jeff for being so photogenic, and thank you Amelia for capturing them so artistically!

Fanciful Designs Blog

2011-01-25T22:53:00.000-07:00

Are these not just the most beautiful flowers you have ever seen?

Whenever I check this blog, I feel so overwhelmed because of the things she can create.

This will sound weird, but this is a testament to great materials. Just like a beautiful gown needing the best silk or French lace to make it right, these flowers also need a hefty and archival paper. A paper with weight and character. Only a paper with those qualities could make such a breathtaking flower. This woman is truly an artisan. Check out all of her beautiful things at fanciful-fanciful.blogspot.com.

Lauren and Crismon

2011-01-16T09:48:00.001-07:00

I was so excited to see Lindsey's post at greenapplephotography.blogspot.com! This dress was so much fun to work on.... and the bride and mom are just way to cool.

Okay, here is the story. Julie Prince did the flowers for Caitlin's wedding a year ago. I loved what she did with her wedding, so I was excited to work on a dress for her daughter, Lauren. They were both so creative and so very happy. I do believe that the better the brides energy, the better the dress.

We ended up doing an asymmetrical pleated ruffled thing around the neck. Nice description, huh? I do enjoy organic design, so this one made me happy. We also put the same motif around the hem. Dang, I always seem to do that. I do like the heft that it gives the hem, though.

I delivered the dress and was able to see the beautiful yard this talented mom had done. I just love meeting great people that open my eyes to how a garden could look.... or a beautiful home, etc. It inspires me to "think" I will do more with mine.

I hope you enjoy these photos and encourage you to check out green apple photography where there are many more beautiful photos of the wedding. You can see the amazing work of Julie Prince there, or check out julieprinceflowers.com.

Random thoughts on snow and kids

2011-01-15T21:27:00.000-07:00

Jack gives you an idea of the snow levels. It would bury him whole, but his belly is keeping him afloat. Jack is a good dog. Someone dropped him off years ago at our gate. We think the action was unthinkable, but are so grateful that he is ours.

A beautiful and sunny day. Isn't everything relative. It wasn't more than 4 degrees out, but I was happy because it was at least sunny!

This Christmas vacation was marked by 6 full days of constant down pouring rain or crazy amounts of snowfall. Enough to drive me a bit crazy. Oh, we even had enough snow to break a 4 by 4 in half, the board that holds the power lines apart a top of a power poll. The break caused a bright light out our window and loud buzzing noise. Enough to wake us in the middle of the night. Now I know what happens at the source when the power to go off. A bit unnerving.

Another random note. I noticed that the boys footprints are not that of toddlers anymore. Their prints in the snow are not much smaller than mine. To be fair, they did have their boots on, and I my normal shoes, but still, they keep surprising me with what they are capable of and that they are changing into big kids. How did it happen?

Slade is eating snow. He just plops his head in the snow and goes for it. He can sit there for ten minutes eating snow with his head buried.

Christy's Photos

2010-12-06T21:16:00.000-07:00

Okay, I really really love this dress. Of course I do.... because it has texture, which is my current obsession. It helps that Christy is so cool. She is a road biker, adventurer, meaning she does some crazy races that no sane person would think about, and has such a great attitude.

I love these type of photos. It is all about the walking shots. Am I the only one who feels this way?

A few details on this one. The flowers are made of organza and dupioni silk.  I drew up a few flowers, had them digitized, and the local embroidery place produced them. After a lot of cutting and a fair amount of fray check, they were ready to put onto the dress.

Gowns are a study of evolution. In this case, after seeing the bridals, I wanted to put more flowers on the gown. Christy was happy to oblige. So thankfully I got a second chance to make it better. Thanks Christy.

I really hesitate about describing the brides. It is hard not to talk about them. Christy is so happy and so up beat. She really lives life fully, as noted in this photo. That is a characteristic I value.

I do love a dress that makes me happy. Nothing like a whole lot of flowers to do that.

snow

2010-11-21T12:01:00.000-07:00

Here we go. It is cold and dreary out there. I think Scott is out plowing. It is November 21st.

I feel like we cheated the system because of the really beautiful and warm days right before the onset of bad weather. On one of those unseasonably warm days, I hiked. I took a 5 hour hike through some areas that must have feet of snow now. It was beautiful, quite, peaceful, and a great work out. I love to feel sore after an adventure. Jack and Earl accompanied me and were great company. They are the black and yellow dots in the picture. That hike can keep me going for this winter season. Just the thought that I get to do that again, meaning, hike unencumbered by snow, makes me happy. So bring it on, I can do it. A bit of snow is nothing.... or maybe not. It really is coming down out there. Sigh.

What do you do to make it through this snowy time? Silly that I am asking a question on this blog. It isn't normal for me. It will be embarrassing when there will be nothing in the comment section. Hint hint.

JCrew Jewelry

2010-11-07T21:16:00.000-07:00

This dress is going to be so cool! The idea is to have a heavily beaded neckline on some to die for Italian silk satin. So in my little world of making it hard, I thought we would be going through all of the antique stores in Utah finding some great things. It would take weeks, but would be worth it.

The genius Bride, Heidi, thought of JCrew jewerly. This is where I am hitting my head against a wall because it is such a great idea.... and perfect for the look we want. So here are a few pictures of the necklaces I will be taking apart. Of course we will add some other jewels besides these, but this will take up the bulk.

A few words about this fabric. Really good silk will almost squeak when you squeeze it on the roll like this. I know that description sounds weird, but when you are in a quality fabric store, try it. You will then understand. This stuff is almost edible, it is so beautiful. It also does a puckering of sorts. I always think of certain paintings when I work with silk satin. It is the real thing. Dang, this stuff is insane. Look at the different colors you see in just this silly snap shot. I see lavender, cream, silk white, grey, blue, and peach. Just try to get a poly satin to do that. Just try.

I need to just devote a blog to all of the virtues of silk. Just to warn you, I could get carried away. So when it comes up, just skip it.... unless you are a seamstress and have the same obsession.

Here are the two necklaces. Are they not just perfect!! Great job Heidi. I am looking forward to seeing how it all turns out.

Should I blog about this?

2010-11-04T21:53:00.000-06:00

I really hesitate to post about this only because I know what "real" creative giants are doing out there, and by comparison, this project is just silly.

Here is the story. I really really want to change up our living room area. It has seen better days. So I decided to start small, or rather, cheap. I tackled a wall. You would think this would be a couple of days project. Oh, no. Not me. I can't justify doing something frivolous until all work is off the table. So I have been whittling away at this one since June or there abouts.

The start. I went to our local second hand store. Utah people know it as D.I. I lucked out and found a huge selection of once loved frames. This put me out about 20 dollars and I gained 12 frames. I brought them home, discarded the glass and miscellaneous art found within, and took a trip to Home Depot with leaves in hand. I tried and tried to get the color right. I settled on a color I felt like I could live with it. It is a nice frog green..... bright frog green.... like Kermit.

Next, I used this beautiful vintage linen as a backdrop inside the frames. I call it vintage because it was from my Dad's wife's mom's collection, who has wonderful taste. (whew, I can't even follow that connection) Because I am a sucker for a good linen, I thought it would be perfect. It is neutral, so I will get to change out what I put on the frames from time to time.

These picture frames sat on my wall for a while and I asked any willing person what they would do with it. My vision was to pin old school drawings of flora and fauna on them. Couldn't find the perfect ones, so instead, found a great book on Van Gogh at a second hand book store. This is where it gets sketchy. Is it morally wrong to rip out pictures and put them on your wall? Some people don't understand how I can cut into fabric. That is no big thing. I struggled to cut into this book. Am I breaking any codes of conduct? Hope not.

I got over it quickly when I saw how great the colors of his amazing paintings went with my Kermit green frames. I should have used one of his paintings to color match my paint. It would have saved me a lot of time mixing.

So the butterflies found at a craft store are the part that makes me happy when I walk by. I know it is fall and everyone is getting out the leaves and pumpkins. Those things depress me. At this time of year I need to be reminded that spring will come again. I am justified in feeling this way. The snow can be taller than the boys, snow non stop for days on end.... and stay til May. Butterflies are how I protest winter. Or rather, butterflies are how I keep the inside of my house bright while it is so cold out there.

Sarah in San Francisco

2010-10-31T23:43:00.001-06:00

Look, a post about a bride. What a surprise. This is Sarah. She was married so long ago, but I am finally posting about her. I want to say she was married last summer. Yes, I think that is right. Talk about the sweetest person to work with..... yes, I say that a lot. I mean it each time.

Sarah worked (past tense, because I don't know what she is up to as of late), in Washington DC. I can't get over the success of these brides. It makes me question what I am doing with my life. Anyway, that is beside the point. Some dresses give me a hard time, some don't. This was a pleasant dress with lots of pleating. These pleats didn't keep me up at night, like some tend to do. So it was lots of fun.

I am hoping the best for these two. I also wish the best for Sarah's mom and dad. They really made a great impression on me. It is cute to see a bride interact with her parents... especially if dad is along for the ride. It is a sweet thing to see.

Do you love the photography? I sure do. Oh, and I just peaked at her blog. Beautiful! This is Marielle Hayes. She is a San Francisco photographer. Check her out at mariellehayes.com. I get so excited when a photographer captures the details of the dress. I know it doesn't matter.... except to the dress maker. I think they took a day of fun and photos in the city. I wish it was something they did back in the day, when I got married. No, that was so very long ago and we didn't do smart things like that. Something about not seeing the bride in her wedding dress until the wedding day. Hum, I wonder if I would have cared? Nope, it would have been a chance to wear the dress another time.

Make sure you see the last few shots. They are my favorite.

Quick view of Lauren and Crismon

2010-10-26T13:39:00.001-06:00

Okay, I saw that Lindsey of greenapplephotography.blogspot.com posted a thumbnail of Lauren and Crismon's wedding. It always makes my day to see images of dresses I have done. Especially when they come from a photographer that is so talented!

Just a few words about Lauren and her mom, Julie. They couldn't have been more lovely. They are both classic and beautiful women. They worked well together while remaining individuals. That is the challenge in this world of mothers and brides. I was happily surprised at the direction the dress went. I love a dress that I wasn't expecting at the start.

I can't wait to show you the wedding in full. Lauren's mom, Julie, is an exceptionally talented florist. Oh, that word doesn't do her justice. She is a.... designer of flowers and other beautiful things. You can see her work at julieprinceflowers.com. She did the wedding for Caitlin about a year ago. So of course I was thrilled to work with her and her daughter on this dress.

I know this sounds trite, but I appreciate and love my job because I get to work with such great women. To be a part of this event for so many people is quite phenomenal. Every dress and every bride surprises me in some way or another. I feel so fortunate to be a "gown maker".

Unexpected Vacation

2010-10-19T15:07:00.000-06:00

Today I feel grateful. I have been walking around in a bit of a euphoric state.

I have been reveling in my two cute kids,

my best friend, who luckily, is also my husband,

the beautiful place that we get to live,

my family,

my husband's family,

my wonderful job that makes me so happy,

and sunlight.

Why am I acting like this? Well, I finished the last dress of the busy busy busy season. The last two and a half years have been a bit overwhelming. I like overwhelming, but maybe not for that long. I finished Amanda's dress and shipped it off to San Francisco. Right after that I opened up a package from Amanda. It had a bunch of "silly bands" for the kids. I always get sentimental when anyone gives something to our kids. It also had an invitation for her wedding. Earlier, she had said that we should come out. I thought that wouldn't happen and didn't think anything of it. BUT the combination of the dress being off, which always fills me with a great sense of relief, the invitation, finding out my kids are out of school for fall break, and the promise of a road trip to San Francisco, it seemed to make sense. Spontaneous sense.

So we made plans and went. It was a perfect vacation. We dragged the kids all over the place and they were truly happy and enthralled. We stayed in one of the old hotels in down town. Loved it. There is nothing like a good San Francisco hotel. We did all of the touristy things. Just walking down the street is an experience for the kids.

Slade danced to the street musicians. Hank finally got to ride on a cable car. We walked and walked. Even hailing a taxi was exciting. Of course we went out to Alcatraz. It was a beautiful time. I am thinking this is the perfect time to tour with kids. They were eager to see and do everything!

At the end of the short vacation in San Francisco, we headed out to the rolling hills of California. Amanda and Paul's wedding was at Taber Ranch, it was quaint and quite stunning. We enjoyed a beautiful ceremony given by their friend. Just the ceremony was worth it. It was funny and touching. Perfect. Then there was the great dinner and the chance to talk to so many of their friends. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming to us.... the "dressmaker" and her family. I think we were all overwhelmed by the whole thing. We couldn't get over how wonderful everyone was to us.

I will post more of the wedding later, once I have photo's to go with it. These look like they were taken by paparazzi from a very distant place. That heightens the mystery of what it was all about and what the dress looked like. I was just taking it all in, so I forgot to take out our camera.

I am just grateful. I feel lucky to work with people during such a significant time in their lives. I love that I get to create, be pushed to do more, and to grow and learn. But it is most rewarding to meet and work with people on the project of a wedding gown.

Oh, and it doesn't hurt to go on a road trip or two.

Chelsea's Bridal Photographer

2010-10-06T23:45:00.000-06:00

I just discovered who took the wonderful pictures of Chelsea. Her name is Natalie Norton. She is Chelsea's sister in law. I peeked into her blog. Just the most intimate photos. Just a beautiful blog. You all should take a look. natalienortonblog.com Pretty heart felt and she really expresses herself well.

So I am short on words. I have been reading someone's blog. That always shuts me up pretty well.

Chelsey with Balloons

2010-10-02T21:24:00.001-06:00

I SO enjoyed working on Chelsey's dress. We used the most beautiful cotton organdy polka dot. I loved it so much, I blogged about it.

The dress took a few turns and ended up being the small waist and big skirt variety. It suited her well. I am sad that you can't see the fabric and ruching that makes the dress... but C'est la vie! These images are beautiful and she looks great, don't you think? This is why I don't post photo's I have taken at the time of the fittings. A bride always looks so incredible under the influence of a great photographer. I can never do a person justice with my lack of photographic intelligence.

I just love the balloon shot. So, so, clean and fresh. Yes, weird words to describe. Maybe it is getting late for me to be blogging. I wish Chelsey the best. She is one who deserves everything wonderful.

Oh, I can't find the photographers name. Dang, I will get that info out tomorrow.

Just as a side note. All of my boys and I had such a great day today. It is hot like it should be August, not October. That makes me happy. I got to go on a long jog, which in itself, can make my day. But we also splashed in some water, visited with friends, ate good food, and danced in the light of a flashlight (the little boys did that).

Hope you have a wonderful day.

Amanda update

2010-09-29T09:22:00.000-06:00

So last weekend was a whirlwind of sewing, fittings, and lots of talk of Mad Men. Amanda and her mom, Viena were in again for more dressmaking. The out of town bride is so intense for me, and I love it. It does take a few days to recover from it.

These women have lived such different lives than me, so it makes for great conversation. But most of all, they have the best attitudes. I love a person that can live so happily and appreciate the moment they are living. Boy, I sound corny, but you should hear them. This is why I love this job. I get to work with people during a happy and exciting time in their lives. Pretty cool.

Because of all of the talk of Mad Men, I think Amanda embodied Joan's spirit. She isn't built like Joan, (is anyone?) but she has the attitude. I am a strong believer that the bride has the power to make the dress much better just through wearing it well. Amanda will do that.

Disclaimer, Amanda will not be wearing the socks on the wedding day, but aren't they a great photo op?

Shelby, stage 1

2010-09-16T23:13:00.000-06:00

I had the greatest time working on Shelby's dress. She chose a beautiful silk satin. I would say it was the color of butter. Shelby wanted something more gown than wedding dress. I love that. Shelby also came with a new sister-in-law who designs beautiful things.... really really beautiful things. So I got to be the seamstress on this one and create a dress for Shelby by Shelby and Autumn. I really enjoyed the collaboration and challenge. The pictures are of the bodice front and back. I just counted and there are 24 pieces for just the bodice. I can't wait to show the whole dress, but am having fun showing pictures of the process. Seems like I have been doing that lately.

Each dress makes me question my abilities, especially when I get to work with someone like Autumn. It really shows how little I know. It is humbling but also really enlightening. I love the push in a different direction. In a way, though, it is a helpless feeling that I will never get where I want to go. Oh, that reminds me of the song the boys are learning. They have been learning all of my old U2 songs. "I still haven't found what I'm looking for." It seems more appropriate than ever. It goes to show, you can have a great husband, two beautiful boys, and still have a feeling of not arriving yet. I think that is what keeps a person going.

I write this while content and happy about things, just so you know.

I believe this feeling is the reason I can sew and the reason I love to do it.

This feeling is why I love to start and finish each dress.

This feeling is why I get excited knowing the next project will leave me stumped, until, as I wake one morning, the answer is floating in my head.

Boy, I love those answers.

Nicky and groom

2010-09-07T18:05:00.000-06:00

Cute as a button, don't you think? Or is it "cute as buttons"?

I worked on this dress in the summer and got this in an email after the event. It was great working with Nicky. She lives in California and came up a couple of times to get the dress done. She is one of those smart women which seems to be the case with all of my brides. She is becoming a Doctor and will do amazing things.

I think you can really see that they had a great time at their wedding. I love the bride and groom that arrange to have fun on the fateful day. From this image, you can see that they are happy, calm, and enjoying the moment.

Oh, did I mention that I wouldn't mind having this dress. I loved the vintage feel of it, and the lace, and the color of silk underneath.

Succulants

2010-08-20T23:37:00.000-06:00

I am always over preachy about brides finding inspiration in unusual places. Well, this example is more than perfect. Amanda, who I will describe soon, wants flowers like succulents on her dress. Doesn't that just take the cake. This bride is so on my wave length that she likes the only plant that I will allow in my house. I am not much for house plants... too much dusting, watering, etc, but I do love a good terracotta pot of succulents.

Okay, should I start this story. Plan on it being random and too wordy. I have a lot to express on this one.

Amanda and Viena are these great women. Amanda, the bride, lives in San Fransisco and her mother, Viena, lives in New York City. You think that is quite remarkable, the fact they inhabit the two best cities in the U.S. They are as cool as the places they live.

Here are a few reasons why:

They were daring enough to come out to Utah to have this random dress maker design a wedding gown. I have brides come from many places, but they usually have a friend who has worked with me. She did it without knowing any of my brides.

When Amanda called me from the Salt Lake Airport, she was so very excited about how beautiful the view was from the airport windows. That is the kind of enthusiasm that just makes me happy.

Viena raised Amanda in New York. When I visit there I see these moms teaching their kids to ride a bike on the sidewalks of Manhattan. Now I get to chat with these great people who had that experience of New York.

Viena has had been a career woman in Manhattan for many years. I love the idea of that and have really enjoyed hearing her point of view.

Oh, and did I mention, Viena was "Miss Central America" at one point.

Who leads that kind of life?

I want to share all of these great things I have learned about these women but keep deleting because.... well, you just have to be there.

Well, meet Amanda and Viena. At the end of the long weekend where I sewed and they got to enjoy a snap shot of Utah, we took them up through camp. They met the horses.

I am hoping that the boys start calling them Aunt Amanda and Aunt Viena.

This horse was especially wanting some attention.

Here is just a taste of what is to come for Amanda's dress. I, as you can tell, am pretty excited about this one. I don't want to show much because it is just the start of the process and I have learned the more I work on a detail, the better it will be. I am looking forward to being surprised.

But really, isn't this just the best flower motif ever. I love a good desert plant.

Metal in the desert

2010-08-09T15:06:00.000-06:00

I love the desert. I consider it the most creative place I know. I guess I am not the only one who feels this way. Here are some great examples of creative people doing interesting things in the desert.

Anyway, the boys and I got invited to Lake Powell for 2 days. It was the perfect amount of time. I had to wait for fabric to come from New York, so there were no reasons not to go. On our way down, we stopped at Hanksville.... because it would be cool to get a picture of hank by the sign. Well, as we toured through the small metropolis we passed the most amazing town project.... or so I assume it was a town project. There were 30 sculptures in front of an old motel made of random car parts. The inspiration was dinosaurs. Another example of why I love the desert.

Slade looks like he isn't too sure about this one.

Okay, these two images are just random ones I have snapped in the last year. I guess in a round about way, it fits the theme. Love the color of the blue truck.

Just love the horse shot. This horse is really quite remarkable. It is located outside of my brother and sister-in-law's restaurant, The Painted Pony, in St. George.

Cotton Dot Organdy

2010-07-17T09:42:00.000-06:00

Starting a new dress is always a refreshing experience. I feel a lot of peace and happiness when I am cutting it out. Maybe because it is in the most perfect form. There are no known problems.... yet. I have no idea what will come and how the final product will turn out. I like that.

Using this incredible cotton organdy is making my day, or rather, my week. It is crisp, clean, insanely beautiful, and will do just the right thing for the gown. It will be a simple dress because of the great fabric. I can't wait to see how the whole thing will develop. This is why I do what I do.

I wonder if my euphoria also has to do with the fact this is my last dress of the summer. I might even luck out and have a holiday with the kids before school starts! What a novel idea.

Enjoy!

Cristy's Flower Dress

2010-06-09T09:33:00.002-06:00

I love a good image. Doesn't Lindsay from Green Apple Photography greenapplephotographyonline.com do an amazing job? She works with lighting in such a beautiful way. I was so excited when I found out Lindsay was doing another one of my brides!

I wish everyone could meet the bride in these images. She is just so very cool. She might be one of the most up beat people I know. No, she IS the most up beat person I know. She was open to some different ideas for the dress, so I was able to do these great embroidered flowers for the skirt. In the end we used hundreds and hundreds of them. This is just a teaser. I will post more of the whole dress later.

Enjoy your day.

The last of the house pictures!

2010-05-17T10:00:00.000-06:00

Here are the few "before" pictures I still have. Notice the washer hook up in the kitchen. Once we resolved where to put the washer, we were able to re-do the kitchen.

The wall came down as well, which allowed us to do the Great Room we wanted when we bought the house. Because we took down the wall, that made us have to level out the floors. This is something I thought I would never be able to do. It seemed insurmountable.

Here is the kitchen. Notice the great granite tile I acquired off of KSL classifieds. I love that site. This kitchen window looks out to Cascade mountain. I wouldn't mind living here just for the view.

This is the closet that housed the dryer in the beginning. We popped the corner out and fit the washer inside as well. We have about one inch to spare. My dad also raised the floor of this closet so he could extend the stairs. They were very short and you almost hit your head each time you went down into the basement. Now they are a full set that is a pleasure to walk down.

This might be the window that made us buy this house. It is huge and has the best view of Timp.

The boys, Dalmatian, Super Doggy, and Little Woof

The front door. From the inside.

Here are the stairs my dad did. He had to do them twice because by the time I re-leveled the floor at top, they were off on the first stair. He could have left them, but it would have driven him crazy. Hum, I wonder where I get that trait from?

We started this project in July of 2009 and completed it February of 2010. We started with the idea of replacing one bathroom and putting in windows in the basement. One thing led to another and we ended up re-modeling the whole house and some. New plumbing, new electrical, all new windows, all new floor covering, two new bathrooms, and a new kitchen.

I miss the project half of the time. I loved working with my dad each day on the house. Scott asked me one day what I wanted to accomplish in this life. I think this is the biggest one so far.

Thanks dad!

Me Time

2010-04-14T21:31:00.000-06:00

It is so interesting how perspectives change. In the past, I had to run miles and miles, then work really really hard to have a good day.

People would avoid me if I didn't get to exercise.  I would be so very antsy.   It was annoying.

NOW, if I get an hour of uninterrupted NPR, or even better, an episode of THIS AMERICAN LIFE, I am content.

IF I get to sew while listening to above program, I am practically giddy.

If by any lucky chance I get to meander through our meadow with my three cute boys, I have arrived.

Really, when all is said and done, I am content with a bath and a book.

Am I alone in this? I don't think so. It seems all of my friends that find themselves with little ones feel the same. Here is to this moment in our lives when taking a shower can make a day! Oh, it is just the simple things.

Jenna's flowers

2010-04-04T21:30:00.000-06:00

I just sent off a dress yesterday for Jenna. She was an out of town bride, which means she spends the week in Utah and we make a dress. Usually I can get it done, but we ended up putting a whole lot of hand turned flowers on the skirt and shoulder. I think the number was about 60 or so. Because of the amount of flowers, I had to do that part after she returned home. It is strange to not see the finished product on the bride....

So, did it work out Jenna?
Dang, she doesn't have it yet.
I have to wait even longer to know.

I always have a time period when I am unsettled. After I see the wedding picts or when I receive a call or letter about the dress, well, then I can calm down and know it was a good thing. So to all of you who have called and thanked me, you really have no idea how happy that makes me. Thank you.

I now know that others feel the same way. My sister Rhonda is an incredible painter.

(This is where I should insert a picture of a painting she has done. Unfortunately I don't have one. Sorry, I am a seamstress, not a blogger.)

Out of fear, she waited to ship a painting off for weeks to the person who she sold it to. Once she sent it and didn't instantly hear back, she had all sorts of things going through her head. I remember when the woman did call her back and was SO excited, then my sister could feel ecstatic about the situation.

Am I weird, or do all of you other creative types out there understand this? Do you understand that the more unrest you feel makes seeing the success even that much better? It is about the high you get when someone loves something you have created. It is about coming together and designing something that is beautiful and that IS the bride.

Or, in the end, this blog entry could be all about the Fray Check I inhaled while making the flowers.
It is probably that.

Here's to you, Jenna, hope your wedding is delightful and so much fun! Thank you for giving me the opportunity to do a flower skirt!

The Party

2010-03-05T22:56:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, we have been pouring our life and soul into a home remodel. It started with putting big windows into our rental house basement. It ended with replacing everything, leveling floors, extensive re-wiring of most of the home, all new plumbing as far as we could, and on and on and on. We finally had a party celebrating the ending of this process. I would say completion, but I am beginning to understand there is no closure to this project. These photos are not the best, but they do contain so many people that mean so much to us. We wish all of our family and friends could have come. We are grateful for those many people who did show up for a bit of a visit.

I didn't include names because I don't know how the people featured would feel about that. FYI.

I don't know what type of with drawls I will go through, not being able to go to the house to work every day. Thankfully, I have some incredible dresses lined up that I can't wait to start. Wheww!

Thank you everyone.

Sarah's second bridals

2010-03-01T21:11:00.000-07:00

Sarah is a bride that I was lucky enough to work with last summer. We created a champagne silk dress with a french lace overlay. The icing on the cake, so to speak, was a huge bow placed on the side back of her dress. She wanted something a bit edgy, and as those who know me can attest, I am always for that! We did a ruffled edge at the hem to bring in the fabric once more and justify the bow a bit. Again, I had a fun with this dress and enjoyed working with Sarah and her, now, mother in law.

This winter, Opie opiefoto.blogspot.com, a great photographer from Salt Lake City, called and asked to use a dress for a photo shoot. So I thought Sarah would be a good match. It looks like they had fun.

Sarah was pampered by Enizio enizio.com who did her hair and make up. Doesn't she look just beautiful? Also, Sarah's stunning flowers are by Studio Stems studiostems.com. I don't know anyone who wouldn't want to put their dress on again and get all done up. I remember doing that with a great friend of mine, Maren Ogden, and having such a fabulous day. Here's to all of the photographers out there who make us feel special and give us an excuse to dress up once more.

Thanks Opie for the great photos! Sarah looks amazing!

Open House Party

2010-02-14T08:45:00.000-07:00

How could you resist being welcomed to the "Project House" by these two handsome boys?

Are you a slight bit interested in seeing this counter with freshly baked chocolate chip cookies on it instead of work materials.... I am.

You might also want to see these stairs that my dad built twice, on account that I leveled the sloping floor at the top, so the stairs had to be redone to match my adjustment. Would you like to see them with carpet?

If you are interested in seeing the two month bathroom and window project that turned into a SEVEN MONTH complete home remodel, let me know. We will be having an open house on Saturday evening and would love to see you!

2010-02-05T22:01:00.000-07:00

We were driving the other day listening to music.
Slade all of the sudden cried out, "but dreams don't come true!"

I guess the song referenced how dreams do come true. In his little mind, he wants to believe his parents who tell him that his bad dreams are just dreams and they can't really happen to him. This song was singing so innocently that dreams come true and it really scared our little 5 year old.

Such a clear example that we all interpret what we hear so very very differently.

What a great lesson.

Cassie's dress

2010-01-23T15:36:00.000-07:00

Cassie is the perfect example of the bride that loves to push the envelope. I have been lucky to work with quite a few of you. The biggest flower on this dress is at least 12 inches across. The feathers placed in the flowers and around the hem make me happy. Thanks for the opportunity Cassie.

The photos are taken by Kate, at katesetc.com. I have really enjoyed her work. She really captured Cassie well and I think the photos are stunning! She was the one who took the engagement photos I posted a bit ago.

more boring house stuff, sorry.

2010-01-17T22:05:00.000-07:00

Look, it the cute boys!

Okay, it has been forever since I let myself blog about the house, but I can't hold out any longer. I want to talk about tile. I know there are others like myself. You know who you are. Those of you who can fall in love with tile. Yes, it is true. I love the back splash tile in the big bathroom. It is beautiful.

It is a porcelain tile that is matte white. It is so very old school, but with white grout, it looks so very modern and pretty. I CAN'T sew with inferior materials, and I have noticed, that goes for home building materials as well. Thank goodness for KSL.com classifieds. I have aquired some very quality stuff for a song. Without them, this house would be nothing. (Yes, too much drama. Really, without my Dad and an understanding husband, this house would be nothing.)

There is just too many things I could talk about with the progress of the house, but these are my high points. The bathroom is really to be put together and the kitchen counter is finally tiled, grouted, and sealed. This picture is the first meal at the bar.... ever. Pretty significant step for all of us. It has been a very long road to get to this point.

I can't say enough about how enjoyable this process has been. I have really learned so many things. I know I know nothing, but I think the point is, I know how to learn how to do it now. Ha, I dare you follow that logic!

Ruffled Wedding Blog

2010-01-09T19:53:00.001-07:00

The wedding blog ruffledblog.com put up Caitlin and Nate's groomals. Hurray! I blogged before about the shoot, which was done up here and at our neighbor's pond down the canyon. Cute as all get out, that Nate and Caitlin.... and so fun to work with.
Lindsey Stewart, the great Green Apple photographer, greenapplephotographyonline.com was expecting her beautiful baby girl during the shoot, check out her blog for those lovely photos of her new born as well as other stunning photos!
It was a lot of fun and I can't say enough about the dress and what a great project it was. I said before, but will repeat, the liner pleating fabric equals 94 Yards. The inspiration was of course Jacki O's wedding gown. I LOVE being inspired by dresses that are from a different era, it always makes me so very happy.

The Piano

2009-12-28T22:08:00.000-07:00

I was taken aback when Ashley, a bride I did an alteration for, showed me her engagement photos. She talked about bringing a piano up to the Alpine Loop for their photo shoot. It is one of those times you think, well, I must have misunderstood what she was saying. There is no way she hauled a piano up there for that. Then I saw the incredible photos shot by Katherine Loveless (found at katesetc.com) and I believed.

Just thought you all should see these stunning shots. It seems this couple is destined for great things.

I checked out Katherine's blog as well. Warning, only check it out if you can control your blog envy. Really creative and beautiful photographer and graphics designer.

This shot is my favorite.

2009-12-11T22:08:00.000-07:00

Here is an idea floating around in my head. Before sewing this feather trim around cassie's hem line, I fiddled with it for a bit. Feathers have been interesting around hems of dresses and poking out of flowers. How about something around the neckline? I mostly think this would be great as a fun shrug (Oh, how I don't like the word "shrug") with a bias cut silk wedding dress. What do you think? Is there anyone who could be into a gown with this type of detail? I think the potential is there.... or I have been inhaling too much concrete board dust while sawing it for the counter today. Talk about a mixed up life I am leading.

My Perfect Day

2009-11-28T22:29:00.000-07:00

I don't know why this turned out to be such a quaint and pleasant day. But for unknown reasons, the stars were aligned and things fell into place.

The start. Waking up to the sound of two cute boys playing happily together. No, they didn't come into my room asking for breakfast, they were upstairs taking care of Curious George and Spot, their stuffed animals. I think it was the stuffed animals nap time.

During breakfast, the kids ate their food without being prompted. We had some good conversation.

I was able to sew today. I think this is one main reason I am so euphoric. The dress I am working on is made of my favorite silk out there. It is a duchess satin and is almost sculptural in it's hand. I love most all silk, but this one takes the cake. So I am pleasantly making flowers out of the silk and some great feathers and the kids are now playing race track downstairs. They are soo very loud.... I am happy that Scott can't hear them. But they are happy loud, not mad loud. Huge difference.

We play a bit, Scott takes them to do some chores. Cute. When I am getting shoes on Slade, he tells me he never wants to leave me. Cute. They come back with cold hands and hungry. Cute. We have lunch and I help Slade do a puzzle.

When it is dinner time, I go on a walk with the dogs. They need to stretch their legs. You ask, "Why at dinner time do you think you can go out?" Well, we have leftovers from Thanksgiving because my mom let us cook up two of her turkeys so we could all have leftovers. Maybe that is the real reason today was so pleasant. I am not much for cooking dinner. I love cooking breakfast and lunch. By dinner time I am too....too.... unenthused to get excited about dinner.

Of course the walk was practically balmy. It must have been 35 degrees out there. I think it is a warm front. I am not being sarcastic. 35 degrees at 5:30 P.M. IS warm up here. There was an almost full moon out there. Beautiful.

Hank was able to get another tooth out tonight with the help of Scott. Go Scott!

At the end of the night, I checked on the boys and Slade grabbed my hand. Holding it super tight, he said, "Let me tell you some things.... Antarctica is a very cold place. You can go sledding their and build snow men and ice men. You can slip around their. What else can you do their?" He always tries to grab our hands and hold on for dear life so we can't leave after putting them to bed. Hank does the same thing. Cute.

For the few who care....

2009-11-18T21:34:00.000-07:00

This goes out to those few who like to be updated about our overwhelming house project.
I will start with a few photos showing the evolution of the kitchen area.

Right now I am tired enough to not be overly excited about the monumental hurtle we climbed over today. We installed the kitchen cabinets. That, in itself, is no big deal, but the build up to that moment is pretty huge. I really am at a loss about how to describe the last month.

Check this out, the two by four at the bottom of this picture is the old floor level. The piece on top says one inch and eleven sixteenths. I was bringing the floor up that much in a three foot span! Also to notice, dad is checking my heat duct work over there. I used to get nervous when he would check my work. I am callous now. He has a harder time phasing me. I am late thirties and finally my dad can't get to me as easily. This house project was worth it all just for that :-)

The feeling of the house has changed. For instance, when you walk in the kitchen/living room/dining room you are not having to go over hills and valleys. I now know how to level a floor. It was hard with the first method I tried, but much much much easier after I had a third of the floor level. I had a reference point and a weeks worth of trying and learning behind me. The next two thirds of the floor were a breeze. Two words, Sister joists.

Also, when you walk by the bathroom or bedroom, you don't faint from the overwhelming smell of.... sewer... or something. Nope, the house smells like... well, almost smells like new construction!!!! We, meaning, Scott and Dad, dug out a two foot hole in the bedroom. Digging around two heating ducts and a good amount of plumbing. We were disappointed because we couldn't find any cracks in the sewer pipe. One morning we found the crack! It was a "bugger" to cut out the cast iron on account of it's location under the cement but thankfully dad and Scott were able to get through it. I love that I wait for Scott to be there for the really bad jobs and he is more than happy to do them. Thanks to dad, and his overwhelming desire to fix all things old and yucky, we now have all new plumbing in that hole as well.

The tree in the front yard was pruned severely. There were too many branches growing horizontally. Scott had a great time doing that. Thankfully we rented a lift and it became a carnival ride of sorts. I want to rent that on our next family reunion. It was too much fun.

I finally got a furnace guy to come check the furnace. I guess we needed a new one. Something about cracks in the heat exchange. Well, Gunthers installed one today. It has been about a week of fires in the wood burning stove. It is quaint, but nothing beats heat distributed throughout the house by a working furnace. We will still use the wood burning stove. It makes for a nostalgic working environment, plus we won't need to haul off our scrap 2 by 4's.

Wow, this will be my most boring blog to date, but it is so big to me.

P.P.S. Just so you all know out there, I know my dad is a Super Star. Everyone who sees the magnitude of this project can't get enough of how great my dad is. For the record, I know how lucky I am to do this with him. I am learning so much from him. I do wonder if we will wrap this up or if we will continue to come up with new things to do. I have a feeling we are done with the new stuff only because we have run out of house to fix.

Bathroom before and after!

2009-10-12T22:44:00.000-06:00

I finally have something to show you that actually is finished!!!! This is the bathroom we were going to do all along. The original shower was too hard to clean. I could never get that fresh clean comet scent after cleaning. Oh, maybe it is because of the rotten wood located underneath the surface of the shower. I am so sad that I don't have the real before shot. You would see such a difference.

Anyway, while I am busy searching for another stand up shower at Lowe's my dad had it in his head to move the toilette over and put in a tub at the back of the room. Beautiful! Instead of just making do with where things were located, we made it just right.

After riping out all of the old we discovered that who ever put in the shower cut through two of the floor joists for the plumbing. That explains the very slanted floor, compared to the house's slightly slanted floors. So dad taught me about sister joists. It is when you put a piece of wood next to the old wood to strengthen, stabilize, and level. Of course dad put in all new plumbing. I was introduced to a product called "Pex". It is the coolest stuff that makes changing out plumbing actually pretty fun.

KSL supplied the great marble flooring. I got such a great deal on it, I was able to put in the pebble strip by the tub and at the threshold. My dad was a bit indifferent about the pebble tile.... which is to be expected. When it was all installed, though, he did make a comment like, "You need a water feature that flows along these rocks." Yes, just the mood I was going for.

I could go on and on and on, but I will spare you. I do feel great every time I walk past this room. It is the one room that feels like it belongs in a home. Everything else, well, it's just a work site.

Cement anyone?

2009-10-06T22:53:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago we agreed to stop demolishing. Well, that was then and this is now. We decided to tear out the other tub in the ONLY room we vowed to do nothing with. We were trying to eliminate the smell. Sorry for that detail.

Well, it didn't take care of the problem, so we rented a cement saw and had at it. Dad did all of the work, I just poured water on the blade. So now we have a ditch through the bathroom and one of the bedrooms. Just so you know, we were aiming at taking out the heat duct under there. We did get that out and will now, hopefully, put a new one in and seal the thing up. The guy at the rental place said it would get a bit dusty. I have never experienced anything like it. It is like at Timp caves when they turn out the lights and you can't see your hand in front of your face. No, really, it IS just like that.

On a lighter note, the kids had a great time helping "Baca" hook up the toilette. I have seen Slade that excited only a couple of times. They would flush it and then run down stairs to hear the water going through the pipes. These kids don't need Disney land, just a good toilette flushing.

The last project we decided on is taking up all of the sub-floor in the family, dining, and kitchen and leveling all of the floor joists. Don't ask me why we didn't do it before. Oh, it is because I am silly and thought the bamboo flooring would somehow be okay over a crazy crooked floor.

Once I came to terms with what we had to do, I got happy.

I am always a sucker for a painstakingly long project.

2009-09-27T22:34:00.000-06:00

These are a few photos I took when on a photo shoot with someone who actually can take photos. Caitlin, the bride, had her photographer, Lindsey Stewart of Green Apple Photography, come up to the ranch and surrounding areas to have their groomals. We had a great time and even involved the neighbor with a stint on his pond. He is an incredible neighbor and even shines when asked to contribute to a groomals session! His pond is so lovely and he conveniently had a classic boat there just waiting for us. It beat the canoe we had with it's looks and stability.

Cute and pregnant Lindsey was just great. I have heard of her through other brides and was so glad to meet her. What a great photographer and perfect personality for this kind of thing. She is expecting her little girl in 5 weeks or so. Oh to be pregnant with your first child. That was the life. I remember quick naps on my studio floor back in the day. Here are a few of her in action. Again, these photos are not much to sneeze at.... I am a dressmaker, not a photographer.

Marge, the mother of the bride, of course was attending. Marge thinks I am crazy because of how long it takes to create these things. She is not far off, especially on this one.

I took on this project because I was so interested in the texture element and the length of this skirt. Love it when I get a bride who is willing to take chances. I think that is the best situation for designers. There is something compelling about being inspired by a dress but not following that dress completely. In this case, we were going for a Jacki-o style.

I have looked into her specific wedding dress and it has a compelling history. A point or two is that the designer's studio was flooded a few days before the wedding and she had to make everything again. That seems a bit unbelievable, but it still makes for an interesting story. Another thing about her, she was African-American and quite well known. There is speculation that she would have been another Vera Wang if the world was a bit different during that time.

Whew, I went on a tangent. Love the stories of these famous dresses. I need to dig further, though, so I get it right.

Anyway, Jacki's dress has always a great one, and now we were able to use it as inspiration for Caitlin's dress. It is by no means meant to look like Jacki's, just hint towards it.

I have to give you the statistics of this dress. 94 yards of hand pleated fabric went into the skirt. Yep, I think that is the only stat that is worth pointing out. Yes, 94 yards made this trim on the skirt, and yes, each pleat was ironed and angled so as to create the right amount of circle or curve. Love that type of work, I think it is therapy for me. There is always quite a bit of internal pressure that I put on myself to make the gowns as perfect as possible. This one just took a little longer to "nip it in the bud", so to speak. So if I ramble on it is just because I am happy about the outcome.

Last little side note, Caitlin is wearing my Grandmother's pearl necklace on her wedding day. I guess that is the something borrowed. Pretty cool, I think.

Enjoy your wedding day Caitlin and Nate. You are a cute couple.

Sarah and the Golden Gate

2009-09-03T20:38:00.000-06:00

I will post more photo's of this dress, but Sarah's mom sent me this teaser shot. Isn't the photo incredible. (I will find out the photographer when I get more images to show.) Oh, what a great family and bride. This dress was made with the bride and her parents here for a consultation and first fitting. She then flew in again and we had Saturday and Sunday to really put the dress together. She returned again that next Thursday and we made a minor adjustment and she took the dress. It comes down to a very very intense two days of creating. The dress went so well... which is the only way it could have worked out. Thankfully Sarah has been living right and deserved an easy dressmaking experience. Thank you "Carma"!

I love experiences like this, where I am pushed so hard, yet it comes together in the end. I can't wait to show you the flower on this dress. It is one of the serendipitous types where it ends up a surprise even to me.

Big thanks to my honey for having quality time with the boys. They had some great guy time that weekend!

The Bike

2009-08-24T22:52:00.000-06:00

Scott surprised us all with this cute cute bike. Hank kept asking if it was a dream. He was doing figure eights on the dirt after riding it for an hour. He can now ride it up to the horses and through out camp. Oh, Yeah, this mama is proud!

Marcee and Marc's Groomals

2009-08-22T20:59:00.002-06:00

Here are some absolutely stunning photos of Marcee and Marc. There are more at Kate Benson's great blog. I love this photo shoot. Very clean and so sweet! Marcee is the last dress I finished. The dress was draped in such a way that, during the fittings, she looked a bit Greek goddess.... even though the dress was out of silk taffeta. Have a wonderful wedding. You guys are so cute together.

My favorite part is the crooked bow at the small of her back. It is funny how things come full circle. My first few wedding dresses had huge bows on them. I am loving the chance to play with some alternative bows again.