Mardi Gras

It's that time of year again...we are gearing up for Mardi Gras!

As most of you know, the hubs is from the New Orleans area, so we've made it a little tradition since we have been married to get down there for at least a parade or two. This year the mister will actually be riding in a parade, which will be really fun to see him a top his float, flinging beads to the masses while in costume!

As I'm nearing 9 months pregnant, there are a few things I'm already lamenting regarding this trip.  I will be tired, can't walk far or stand for too long, can't stay up very late, but mostly....I'm lamenting the loss of this rare opportunity to look amazing in an evening gown.

The past couple of years, we have attended the Endymion Extravaganza, the ball after the Endymion parade.  It is a true black tie event and there are some amazing dresses there!  But me?  Oh, I'll just be in a muu muu and some crocks. 

But in the midst of all the preparation, I've been secretly day-dreaming of the dress of my dreams that I'll (maybe) get to one day wear.  

I remember a dress that a friend of ours wore to my sister's wedding.  It was a metallic jacquard burnout on chiffon over a colorful underlay.  It was really beautiful!  I asked who the designer was: Aidan Mattox.  I have been obsessed with his gowns ever since!  They are really much more beautiful in person, gorgeous materials and a perfect fit!

 

 

 

 

 

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In search of the perfect baby book

For a week or so now, I have been in search of the perfect baby book.  It seems the popular choice right now is a traditional silk covered style, perhaps monogrammed.  Don't get me wrong, they are beautiful, and I love a monogram!  But I was hoping to find something more special, different from the way my bride's book looks.

It seems like a simple task, but let me tell you...it is not!  Trying to find a baby book with vintage style and minimal cheesiness is no easy job.  Here are a few that struck my fancy.

I love this design by Binth.  It's modern but with hints of retro.  And I love the woodsy theme and shades of green.

For a more Victorian look, I love these books by Terra Traditions.  While some of their covers are a little over the top, I love the sweet, vintage images on the inside pages.

 

This memory book from Uncommon Goods also caught my eye, with it's hand-drawn style.

And then there is this little beauty.  Mother Stork's Baby Book  is originally from 1904, but has recently been reprinted!  How adorable does it look?

But my all-time favorite has to be this beauty from photographer Meg Fish.  If you haven't seen her work, I urge you to check out the link.  She is working from scratch, designing the entire book herself and then having it printed.  How is it that my favorite option always requires the most work.........??  And why I am seriously toying around with the idea of making my own baby book??  I must be crazy!