{Inspiration Board}: Mad for Madras

I love the look of madras if it is done right. The cotton fabric serves as perfect inspiration for an outdoor summer gathering. You could even use the plaid as your July Fourth backdrop if you find the right color combination. Layer it over a burlap tablecloth and you'll have the perfect outdoor setting.

The perfect picnic setup deserves the perfect outfit as well! I love this madras shirt from J. Crew and these metallic white cuff shorts by Alice + Olivia will dress up the outfit just a bit. These suede taupe sandals from Victoria Secret complete the outfit. I actually have them in black and wear them often!

images: melamine plate {boatman gellar}, red tulip arrangement { jl designs}, bonfire & table setting {style me pretty}, madras shirt {j crew}, white shorts {shopbop}, suede sandals {victoria's secret}

Cupcakes I Want to Bake

Over the past year, these cupcakes have been in the back of my mind. I would love to try them soon! The Snickerdoodle Cupcake from Bakerella not only looks delicious, but is cute too! The Apple Pie Cupcake that I spotted on Birthday Girl is something my parents would love and is an interesting twist on the classic dessert. The Ice Cream Cupcakes in souffle cups are precious and would be perfect at any summer gathering. Just bake your favorite cupcakes and top with your choice of ice cream. Oh how I love marshmallows! These Devils Food Cupcakes filled with marshmallow cream from Social Couture sound divine. And last but not least, Mint Julep Cupcakes (or try a margarita version) with a straw for a garnish!

Bake and enjoy!

images: snickerdoodle cupcakes {bakerella}, apple pie cupcakes {birthday girl}, ice cream cupcakes {martha stewart}, devil's food cupcakes {social couture}, mint julep cupcakes {hwtm}

{Real Parties}: Olivia's Christening Celebration

To celebrate the Christening and adoption finalization of their second baby girl, my friend Christine and her husband hosted the most fabulous Sunday brunch. {You may remember the gorgeous photos from the Christening celebration of their first adopted daughter}. As I have mentioned before, Christine is the owner of a chic wedding and event planning business here in Houston. So, it is no wonder that her parties are stunning.

Both of the Christening and adoption celebration invitations were amazing and designed by my talented friend, Hayley Hardcastle. Each invitation included a sentimental quote that brought tears to my eyes...

Not flesh of my flesh, nor bone of my bone, but miraculously my own.

Never forget for a single minute,

You didn't grow under my heart, but in it.

~ Fleur Conkling Heylinger ~

Today I kissed an angel. I knew it from the start.

The first time my angel smiled at me, I gave away my heart.

Today I kissed an angel, this angel child of mine.

Though not of my creation, my child by God's design.

Today I kissed an angel, my heart is dancing wild.

A family, by a miracle, blessed by this angel child.

~ author unknown ~

Events in Bloom created all of the decor and the amazing Leslie Gaworecki of Goodlight Photography, captured all of the lovely photos.

Sneak Peek: A Party Fit for a Princess!

I have no words....besides the fact that I was blown away when my friend, Christine, sent me the above text of her daughter's 3rd birthday party table!! This was a princess party fit for a queen rather, and I will definitely share the professional pictures with you soon!

But in the meantime, check back later today for the stunning Christening celebration of Christine's youngest little girl!

It's Party Week Over Here!

{image via style me pretty}

So sorry for the lack of posts this week! This Friday is the birthday dinner party I was telling you about, so I have been busy taking care of last minute things. I will definitely share the photos with you when it is all said and done!

Hopefully I will get a Father's Day post up soon. I have a new idea for you...hint, hint...it involves the newspaper which is one of my Dad's favorite things to read every morning.