jomygoodness

I know this is long overdue, but I couldn't NOT do one. Better late than never. With Martha Stewart Weddings' 15th anniversary issue coming out in December, I am dying to see what the talented ladies behind the magazine come up with. I'm sure it will definitely include something old {flashbacks of the past 15 years}, something new {with their fresh ideas}, something borrowed, and something blue {you know...the signature Martha Stewart blue}.

Here are my favorite parts of the Martha Stewart Weddings Fall 2009 issue.

p. 30 :: "In Love with Sparkle & Shine" - - the Anthropologie shot glasses are different, quirky, but cute at the same time. "My Private Sky" plates from Nymphenburg Store USA are perfect for any star-studded event, literally. NASA lovers, anyone?

p. 48 :: "Ask Martha" - - you definitely need to read the advice regarding hiring a planner. The other questions included revolve around inviting the groom's close friends who are on a tight budget & live pretty far away; the issue of whether to trust your ringbearer with the rings; not wanting to anyone besides your bridesmaids and mother where you're getting ready; and where to have the response cards addressed to.

p. 59 :: "Good Things" Looking for something different, but not too over-the-top? Consider having live lovebirds at your event. You can also celebrate fall with the pasta made leaves or DIY acorn earings. My favorite? The DIY belled-ballet slippers and DIY velvet table numbers. Some other DIY projects suggested are the not-so-typical cards your guests can fill out, in lieu of your guest book. Have your guest fill-in-the-blank to make it fun! Funky boutonnieres, a fanciful table seating chart, as well as recipes for peanut brittle & toffee round out the Good Things for this issue.

p. 78 :: "Real Weddings" - - Loving the real weddings featured in this issue. They seriously evoke autumn. The first one has the wedding attendants carrying glowing candles. The second one's color palette and fascination with squirrels totally scream autumn. The third one reminds me of that feeling you get at the beginning of the fall semester on campus. I don't know why.

p. 86 :: "Ring Galaxy" - - I was swooning, ooh'ing, & aah'ing over these bling-y rings. Whether the engagement ring is a solitaire, or not, these diamond bands are AMAZING. Convincing factor is that you're trying to reduce by only one ring, because I am telling you - - these rings make up for only sporting a band. I love the Jack Kelege "Leaf' ring ($10,6000), Varna "micropave-set chain-link diamond band" (uber chic & sleek), and the Dior Fine Jewelry "Oui" ring (charming is the word). For the combo's, I loved the De Beers DB classic set (nothing wrong with classic), and even though I'm not a huge fan of pear cuts or marquis, the contemporary rings by Conroy & Wilcox being featured are stunning. I like being different, so the gold rings (or predominantly gold rings) are darling. My favorites are the Melinda Maria textured circles & Cathy Waterma antique-style scroll ring.

p. 94 :: "Fresh for Fall" Gown Gallery. Whether it's a hint of gold, or accentuating the shoulder, these looks are totally trendy and not one of those 80s disasters.

p. 100 :: "Going the Distance" - - gets some advice to make your look last. Eyes, lips, scent, and skin is covered.

p. 106 :: Expert Advice "At Your Service" from the fab gown designer Carlos Ramirez. He gives his opinion on how many dresses you should try on, his top tip, and ideas for brides on a budget. Style setter, Claudia Schwartz, shares how she comes up with her vision, advice for working with a tight budget, and what makes a good favor. Event designer, Todd Fiscus, describes how things are done in Texas, his idea as the biggest benefit to hiring a wedding planner, and some ways to cut costs. Registry Insider, Mary Rose Gearon, advises as to when a couple should register, how many gifts to register for, and the one knockout item that should be on every couple's list.

p. 116 :: "Pleased as Punch" - - here are some DIY projects that you can do. Great ways to cut costs for your day, add a personal touch, and doll it up at the same time! They're super easy. Step one is picking up a few of Martha's special punchers. Step two is getting the instructions!

p 126 :: "Room for Improvement" - - get some advice on how to spice up your event by using the walls, ceiling, and lighting to your advantage.

p. 138 :: "Party Protocol" - - find out who to sit where, what happens when, etc. There are 12 total topics for things you probably didn't think of, but need to know.

p. 148 :: "Personality Plates" - - although they're not deal-breakers when it comes to making your event an extraordinary one, plates can add some life to, not only your table, but the overall mood of your event. Add some personality by picking something different. You can get sophisticated with some gold tints added, or go eclectic with a special pattern. You can keep it pure & simple with solid whites, and trust me, you can't go wrong with that either.

p. 158 :: "Making it Official" - - what route are you going to take when hiring an officiant for your day? Someone of the clergy, a judge, or a friend? It's up to you, but be sure to read this article if you're still trying to decide.

p. 169 :: "Perfect Palette" is Honey & Wheat. What a gorgeous color palette! From the table decor & centerpieces, to the cheese & signature drinks. The variety is tremendous, bloom selection can be overwhelming (only because there are so many), and the attire & accessories are perfect for any type of bride and her bridesmaids. There's something for everyone. I seriously thought of WeddingBee.com when I was checking this article out, with all the "bee-themed" items included.

p. 190 :: "Let's Dance" So many gowns, for all types of dancing. You will love it. Get some playlist recommendations to get your guests something to get down to!

p. 202 :: "Sweet Treasures" - - cakes and jewelry. They really go hand-in-hand, especially with these literally sweet and gorgeous cakes. My favorites are below.

p. 210 :: Real Wedding "Giving Thanks" - - the details of this wedding are impeccable. Black & white color palette.

p. 218 :: "Ready, Set, Confetti" - - you have to check out the details in this article. The color palette is so fun, the details are so do-able, and the ideas can be used for any type of party. Who doesn't like confetti, besides the person who has to clean it up? Take a look below of my favorite images.

p. 226 :: "Just My Type" - - I am a huge paper lover. From banners to stationery, anything paper is divine. You can go refined, glamourous, playful, minimalist, whimsical, or offbeat. I think I'm a little bit of each. Ha! Check out Martha's online gallery of the pretty paper, by stationers like Rifle Design.

p. 234 :: "Southern Comfort" - - not the drink, but a classy Brooklyn couple get married and have details that will make you swoon.

p. 242 :: "Take a Bough" - - Get some inspiring fall ideas from this section, which includes lots of branches and leaves transformed into centerpieces, arches, hanging decor, and more.

p. 254 :: "Food of Love" - - you travelers will love the suggested honeymoon destinations in this issue. The inspiration? Food! This article gives the 411 on Tuscany, Hoi An, Napa Valley, & Oaxaca. Delicious food with amazing flavor, with plenty of places to see, people to meet, and stores to shop!