We would like to send a "toast" to our indie sponsor The Eclectic Diva. We are thrilled to have this wonderful vintage and independent business with us, this month.
It's easy to fall in love all over again with the details of your wedding. When you find something as sweet as the handmade Ring Bearer and accessory featured below.
This is a Vintage Lace Ring Bearer Pillow from Paper Hill. Made from a vintage wedding dress, vintage lace and new and ivory buttons. I just love the detail, put into this piece.
Eco-Friendly and fashionable this Bridal Blossom Ribbon Necklace is made from a reclaimed wedding dress. Wear it around your neck or around your wrist for an indulging chic accessory.
You can find these and many other wonderful accessories at Paper Hill on Etsy.
Go alternative or go home with Toy Breaker's line of hand screen printed ties. They carry a line of amusing and sophisticated ties. Not your ordinary groomsmen line, but something quite unique which is what we like.
This print is their Victorian Gear teal ink on silver. Toy Breaker offers this design on a variety of colored fabrics.
Colors and designs that stand out on your wedding day like these "iris" ties.
How about skipping the traditional every groomsman wears the same and give each one their color of choice with your pattern of choice.
You can find all of these ties, and skinner varieties at
The Indie Wedding Guide would like to thank our returning sponsor Simply Wood Rings again this month. This month we talked with the designer himself Mr. Gustav Reyes. We love we he does with wood and know that movement of environment friendly and fair trade is hitting the world of wedding rings, and he remains the cream of the crop in our book!
Wood Rings seem like a genius idea for those who are environmentally conscious, but what are some of the other reasons to purchase a wooden ring bridal set?
To begin with, there's going to be a lot of overlap between a customer
base that seeks exclusively environmentally healthy products, and one
that would choose a wooden ring for any other reason.
A lot of our customers feel connected with the specific woods because
of it's significance in their life or in their culture. We create
rings out of wood salvaged from musical instruments, ancient woods that
connect the wearer to a long-gone past, and woods chosen and paired for
their symbolism and historical significance. I have crafted
commissions for people out of wood from a tree on their land, one from
where they grew up, from family heirlooms or relics, and from places
people have traveled that they don't want to forget.
We use conflict free sources for our metals and stones, as well. Again, there's a lot of overlap between sourcing that's going to be conflict free or ensure fair trade and labor conditions and sourcing that will be environmentally conscious, but they are not explicitly the same thing. We seek out both, as a business, but a customer could be coming to us for either.
And of course, you always have customers who are attracted exclusively to style. A wooden ring is going to be a fundamentally different kind of accessory from something made of metal. We sell wedding sets to couples where the man wants to wear a wedding band, but isn't comfortable wearing a metal piece of jewelry. A wooden band makes a statement that he's hip and eco-conscious, but it's a very masculine style of ring. There are people who have allergies to metals and can't wear any kind of jewelry other than something like what we provide, which makes us the natural choice when trying to select a wedding band.
I was working for a cabinet-maker, trying to figure out where I wanted
my craft to go, when my wife asked me if I could create a ring out of
wood for her. She has metal allergies, so that first ring was an
entirely practical request that gave birth to a new direction for my
work as an artist.
That first ring, a labor of love to find a way to create these rings
that would be elegant and durable, is how I discovered the method used
to create these pieces. Each ring since then has been an opportunity
to improve this method. When I started selling the rings, it was the
support of a community that was eager for a product like this that
allowed it to grow so quickly into the business with which I support my
family. I owe a lot to Rob Kalin over at etsy.com who supported my work from vary early on, and helped to get it in front of the right consumers.
The craft has come a long way since those early days, but my wife still
has the first ring, and the basic principal involved in the rings?
creation has remained the same.
Most of the same things that can damage your skin will damage the rings. Exposure to harsh chemicals, over-frequent washing/drying, rough treatment (wearing the ring while lifting or operating machinery) are all things that could compromise its finish, and thereby the integrity of the ring itself. The finish is the most important factor in keeping the ring in good condition, and if it is worn down, scratched, or chipped it can allow water into the wood which damages the ring from the inside. The rings are designed to be lived in and incorporated into the pacing of our lives, so most of your daily activities are fine. Although we recommend the ring be remove during hand washing the occasional wash will not harm the ring as long as the finish is in good condition. The rings do require a bit of extra thought and care, and we hope we have the kind of customers who are willing to put that in to owning an item that is both an art object and a piece of jewelry, but I am here to support them in that endeavor. Whether it's refinishing a ring as it gets older, or fixing it when it has gotten damaged, I will always work with the owners of these pieces to help them enjoy their ring for as long as possible.
Again a special thanks to Mr. Reyes, you can find more of his collection at his website Simply Wood Rings.
Vintage Indie & Eco-Chic Weddings would like to send a "toast" to our indie sponsor Mosey Handmade We are thrilled to have this wonderful handmade indie business with us this month.
Mosey Handmade is nestled in the small cove of Belfast, Maine. Mosey Handmade is inspired by nature, the sea and the forest around her.
Each item is hand crafted with attention to detail and loving care in the wee studio with a view of the cutting garden. With a line of woodland inspired cake toppers and boutonnieres, many of Mosey's items use real moss, lichen, acorns and finds form the sea. After searching out specialties for her own woodland themed wedding, Mosey
decided that she could make exactly what she wanted and delights in the idea of making the same for others. 
Mosey Handmade is delighted to offer one of a kind decorations and keepsakes for your very special day and can make any item to match your weddings colors and themes. Mosey Handmade introduces her line of wedding lovelies this very spring.
Stay tuned June 08 as Mosey Handmade goes live with their very own store!
The Indie Wedding Guide would like to welcome Lara of Belfast Beach Jewelry for today's Designer View. Lara creates a beautiful line of sea glass tiaras and more.
Indie Wedding Guide - How did you get started creating with sea glass?
As a young girl spending summers on an island off the coast of Maine, I used to delight in exploring the shore at low tide in search of washed up treasure: small pieces of frosted, sea-smoothed glass and pottery shards with enticing bits of antique print rather than shells or stones. I was fascinated by the romance of the story each piece held within, from its origin through the wave-washed journey to arrive years--even centuries--later at my feet.
Today
I am lucky enough to live where I can see the ocean out my windows, and
frequent walks along the rocky beach allow me a chance for meditation
and exercise out in the fresh sea air, as well as the opportunity to
collect sea glass once again. Realizing how precious these glass
gems--once someone's trash!--have become due to more ecologically
responsible methods of recycling and the popularity of plastic, I loved
the idea of incorporating them into my jewelry creations, thereby
carrying out a small form of recycling myself. To me, these worn,
faded bits of glass are diamonds, emeralds, amber and aquamarine--and
red, the rarest color of all, rubies of course : ) and over the last
few years I have shared my peaceful beach hunt with my faithful bichon
frise dog Sammy, and then my son James as well, first in a frontpack,
then a backpack, now finally running and playing around me.
I
create bridal tiaras and headbands from carefully chosen sea glass,
wrapped with gold or silver wire and embellished with seed pearls and
crystals, which I sell both in local boutiques and in my online shop. These unique, handcrafted headpieces would be equally
appropriate at both a barefoot beach wedding and a fancy, formal church
event.
Indie Wedding Guide - What does your company offer that the "big box" stores don't?
Unlike the more limited service a bride receives from a big-box
wedding retail shop, I am happy to work together with her to create the
perfect custom-designed tiara to crown her special day, and provide any
color variations to complement her bridesmaids and wedding color
scheme. Every bride and every wedding is beautiful and unique, so why
should you settle for a one-size-fits-all, mass-produced headpiece? I
derive much satisfaction from handcrafting one-of-a-kind,
gallery-quality but affordable works of art which are both comfortable
and elegant, and will be cherished both in the wedding photos and in
the years to come.
The Indie Wedding Guide would like to welcome Beth of Reggieana for today's Designer View. Beth creates a beautiful line of "Elegant & Affordable Ring Pillows" 
If you are planning an outdoor wedding, maybe it's time to think outside the box. That's what today's company does. They take you outdoors and create beautiful accessories that are truly unique. That's what I love most about independent companies, they dare to be different.
Mosey Handmade is a company formed around the ideas of reconstructed, recycled and re-loved.
If you are planning a garden wedding Mosey Handmade makes an adorable line of "nest accessories" These nesting birds in yellows would be a perfect adornment as a cake topper.
These Groom Boutonnières are so whimsical, I love that they are created with vintage millinery supplies, real acorns and acorn tops, wool roving and real moss.
Head over to Mosey for these delightful accessories "all in a nest".
- Gabreial Wyatt, Vintage Indie
Recently I spoke with indie jewelry designer Kristin Friesen of Sweeter Than Me Bridal to discuss what it means to her to be an independent business and designer.
What does it mean to you to be an independent jewelry designer?To me, being an indie designer
of any kind means self sufficiency. Sharing my work with others is a
secondary (and equally wonderful) perk of making jewelry. For me, I
love the fact that I can make virtually anything I see. If I see a
necklace on a girl on the street and I want it, I go home and make one.
I love being able to look in my closet and design the perfect pair of
earrings to go with any given outfit. Jewelry is a luxury that many
people cannot usually afford, myself included, and I love the fact that
I can make a little something special for myself at a fraction of the
cost. Another thing that is really special for me is seeing my pieces
in real life. For example, I was at my in-law's house a week or so ago
and I saw my mother-in-law wearing a pair of earrings I gave her. It
means so much to me seeing people really use and appreciate the things
I design, it makes me so happy. This is why I create.
What kinds of jewelry and service do you offer that the larger companies don't?
If your plan is to go with a garden style themed wedding consider these handmade accessories that will last for years to come rather than flowers that may dwindle within a few days.
Believe it or not but the gorgeous creation to your left is a small handmade botanical handbag with fabric leaves, & flower petals from The Other Sister.
The best part? These creations can be custom made to fit the color scheme of your wedding. You will be amazed at the flexibility that the designers give you for creating the perfect addition to your wedding.
Visit The Other Sister for their stunning line of botanical handbags, journals and more.
- Gabreial
Vintage Indie
Vintage Indie & Eco-Chic Weddings would like to send a "toast" to our indie sponsor Leaves of Glass . We are thrilled to have a fabulous indie jewelery store with us!
Leaves of Glass is jewelry designed and handmade from sterling silver
and vintage beads. Inspired by Chicago architecture, junk car lots,
works of fiction, film noir, art deco design, and the magic that is
vintage glass, Leaves of Glass designs marry delicate and industrial
elements to create a look that's organic and urban.
I've simply fallen in love with the jewelry at leaves of glass. The magic of vintage is captured in each piece that Leaves of Glass creates, giving it a one of a kind feel.
Wedding accessories don't have to be all diamonds and pearls. Create something to remember by accenting your special day with a handmade treasure of gorgeous design and craftsmanship.
Visit Leaves of Glass today, for a full line of exquisite urban vintage jewelry.
Ethical gold and sustainable jewelry are at the center of what's often
referred to as "green washing." This is because the practice of mining
gold and other precious metals and gemstones can rarely be done in a
non-impactful fashion. Because of this, I most often recommend choosing
vintage pieces. Ashley Hilton and his lovely work is an exception.
Living in New Zealand, Ashley knows exactly where his materials come
from--he can actually visit the mine near his home. And he is so
serious about reducing his impact that he even learned how to fabricate
his own metals. Not only are his designs ethical, they are also quite
beautiful. And because each of his designs have not been mined or
manufactured in a way that's destructive, his pieces have an intrinsic
beauty that is truly rare.
- Emily
Eco-Chic Weddings
Accessories can sometimes play an important role in your wedding. Whether it's a piece of jewelry handed down from generation to generation or its a special handbag or clutch that holds wedding necessities and memories. You'll want to make sure it's a compliment to your dress and not just a last minute addition.
How about choosing something like this Vintage Beaded Rose Bridal Clutch.
There are so many already produced choices out there in vintage clutches. Like this Satin Opal Clutch, that you'll surely find something special and unique.
- Gabreial
Vintage Indie & Eco-Chic Weddings would like to send a "toast" to our indie sponsor Charming Sam. We are thrilled to have a fabulous indie jewelery,art and ephemera store with us to celebrate Indie Weddings Month!
Large numbers of brides
have been making the leap from big box retailers to the unique offerings
of independent designers. These socially conscious shoppers make purchases that
do more than adorn their bodies. They choose jewelry and accessories that are
extensions of their creative spirits, and they want designs that are unique and
inspired.
Charming Sam Studio offers a full collection of earrings, bracelets, and necklaces for brides and bridal parties that match the vibrancy of the ladies who purchase them. From the whimsy of rare stones woven into earrings to the incorporation of antique watch findings and other unusual gems, Charming Sam's goal is to create designs that celebrate life’s travels.
Please visit the Charming Sam Studio Web site at www.charmingsam.com to view the entire collection of jewelry designs. And a special bonus for Vintage Indie readers, enter code VINTAGE during checkout for a 30% discount on your entire purchase.
Vintage Indie & Eco-Chic Weddings would like to send a "toast" to our indie sponsor Flying Needle Gallery. We are thrilled to have a fabulous indie store with us to celebrate Indie Weddings Month!
From luxurious velvet
wraps for bridesmaids or the bride, or even their mothers, customized to match
their gowns – to an assortment of scarves as bridesmaids gifts,
FlyingNeedleGallery creates limited edition and one-of-a-kind accessories. A
favorite is the burnout velvet “Mistral” scarf, finished with
charms ( using heart charms, or charms bearing messages like ‘love’)
– or cloisonné beads that create a bejeweled finish.
For the reception –
or as a gift for the home – the Colorchiefs™ line caters to custom
orders, offering unique selections of coordinated dinner and cocktail napkins,
for a truly unique touch. Whether a theme or a color scheme is chosen, this is
a great way to pull your decorating motif together, and be green at the same
time. And if you’re looking for finishing home touches, we create
pillows that will make you just dive onto that couch.
Coupon code for Indie
Weddings: INDIEWED for 20% off all orders valid though 6/30/08
Something old, something new, Something borrowed, something blue. Sound familiar? This saying comes from an old English rhyme and is thought by some to have come from the Victorian era.
Usually the "something old" part comes from using something old and of meaning from a family member. Including family heirlooms in your wedding doesn't cost a thing and is a great way to re-use articles of the past many of which can also be vintage.
(Photo courtesy patternmania)
A few ideas for "something old"
- Your mother's wedding gown
- Mothers & Grandmother's Brooch
- Your Parents cake topper
- Family rings
- Purses
- Vintage Hanky
- Family wedding picture tucked in your purse
- Vintage Hat/Gloves
- Piece of lace or trim, sewn into the hem of your gown
- Gabreial
Vintage Indie
Vintage Indie & Eco-Chic Weddings would like to send a "toast" to our indie sponsor Eclectic Eccentricity. We are thrilled to have a fabulous indie jewelery shop with us to celebrate Indie Weddings Month!
Eclectic Eccentricity is an inspired treasure trove of gems and trinkets galore. With a range of jewelry that would make perfect thank you gifts as well as fun and frivolous pieces for the bride to be, each piece has a limited run and a charming story to tell.
Unique pieces created using vintage beads and re-purposed curios will be yours to treasure (just don't wear the Marriage License necklace around your husband to be....)
You can also visit Eclectic Eccentricity at their Etsy shop.
