Modern Flourishes at Obamas’ State Dinner

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsP9J4xnTJnIg9TVUCY-OPHkmoZCnrSrTvsBcpDQNuIgh0Jv__nHuB4dRzvkfV1jcv620_P45sPKToeYy643pOXD5TwDglKtSgJxbbCkO-ZxH6dP8yeDQsu1v1CGAeRqU-0lBKQG88J0e3/s1600/31759108.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408288865405689586" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsP9J4xnTJnIg9TVUCY-OPHkmoZCnrSrTvsBcpDQNuIgh0Jv__nHuB4dRzvkfV1jcv620_P45sPKToeYy643pOXD5TwDglKtSgJxbbCkO-ZxH6dP8yeDQsu1v1CGAeRqU-0lBKQG88J0e3/s400/31759108.JPG" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a><br /><br /><br /><script language="JavaScript" type="text/JavaScript">function getSharePasskey() { return 'ex=1416891600&en=bda61441ab69fec1&ei=5124';}</script> <script language="JavaScript" type="text/JavaScript"> function getShareURL() { return encodeURIComponent('http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/25/us/politics/25dinner.html'); } function getShareHeadline() { return encodeURIComponent('Modern Flourishes at Obamas’ State Dinner'); } function getShareDescription() { return encodeURIComponent('India’s leader was the guest of honor at the Obamas’ first state dinner, which they infused with distinctive touches.'); } function getShareKeywords() { return encodeURIComponent('White House (Washington, DC),Cooking and Cookbooks,Barack Obama,Michelle Obama,Manmohan Singh,Marcus Samuelsson'); } function getShareSection() { return encodeURIComponent('us'); } function getShareSectionDisplay() { return encodeURIComponent('U.S. / Politics'); } function getShareSubSection() { return encodeURIComponent('politics'); } function getShareByline() { return encodeURIComponent('By RACHEL L. SWARNS'); } function getSharePubdate() { return encodeURIComponent('November 25, 2009'); </script>By <a href="http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/s/rachel_l_swarns/index.html?inline=nyt-per" title="More Articles by Rachel L. Swarns">RACHEL L. SWARNS</a><nyt_byline style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-style: italic;" version="1.0" type=" "> </nyt_byline> <!--NYT_INLINE_IMAGE_POSITION1 --> <nyt_correction_top style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> </nyt_correction_top> <p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">WASHINGTON — It is an old tradition, a White House dinner governed by ritual and protocol that happens to be this city’s hottest social event. But at their first state dinner on Tuesday night, <a href="http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/o/barack_obama/index.html?inline=nyt-per" title="More articles about Barack Obama.">President Obama</a> and his wife, <a href="http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/o/michelle_obama/index.html?inline=nyt-per" title="More articles about Michelle Obama.">Michelle</a>, made sure to infuse the glittering gala with distinctive touches.<br /></p><div style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);" class="inlineVideo left brightcove"><!--NYT video player embed code *ends here* -->They hired a new florist, Laura Dowling, who bedecked the tented outdoor dining room with locally grown, sustainably harvested magnolia branches and ivy. They selected a guest chef, <a href="http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/s/marcus_samuelsson/index.html?inline=nyt-per" title="More articles about Marcus Samuelsson.">Marcus Samuelsson</a> of Aquavit in New York, an American citizen who was born in Ethiopia, reared in Sweden and cooks up melting pots of flavors and cuisines.</div> <!--brightcove player ends --> <p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">They invited local students to witness the arrival of the guests of honor, Prime Minister <a href="http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/s/manmohan_singh/index.html?inline=nyt-per" title="More articles about Manmohan Singh.">Manmohan Singh</a> of India and his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and presented a mélange of musical entertainment, including the <a href="http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/organizations/n/national_symphony_orchestra/index.html?inline=nyt-org" title="More articles about National Symphony Orchestra">National Symphony Orchestra</a>; Jennifer Hudson, the singer and actress; Kurt Elling, the jazz musician from Chicago; and <a href="http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/r/a_r_rahman/index.html?inline=nyt-per" title="More articles about A. R. Rahman.">A. R. Rahman</a>, the Indian composer who wrote the score to the movie “Slumdog Millionaire.”</p><p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">And at the tables, the meatless menu included a mix of Indian and American favorites, including some African-American standards. Collard greens and curried prawns, chickpeas and okra, nan and cornbread were served to the 320 guests — including some well-known Republicans and prominent Indian-Americans — who started off with arugula from the White House garden and finished up with <a href="http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/subjects/p/pumpkins/recipes/index.html?inline=nyt-classifier" title="More articles about pumpkin recipes.">pumpkin</a> pie tart. (After a tasting at the White House on Sunday, the Obamas gave the dishes their stamp of approval, Mr. Samuelsson said.)</p><p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">And don’t forget the dinner plates. For an administration that publicly prizes bipartisanship, what could be finer than an eclectic mix of Clinton and Bush china?</p><p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">The Obamas promptly distinguished themselves from their immediate predecessors by holding their dinner under a grand tent on the South Lawn to allow for a more expansive guest list. And they emphasized some of their favorite themes, including bipartisanship, diversity and a focus on healthy meals.</p><p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Mrs. Obama made a splash by showcasing deep, rich colors — apple green for the tablecloths and varying shades of plum, purple and fuchsia in the hydrangea, roses and sweet peas in the centerpieces. </p><p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5I796xABEuo4I4WQQ8_7gSi6a712iEl9eC0qCpRLW8ji_3FH48JEsyy81ECzZ0wAk3nrPg4VrZnWScVeHONmL9Z7XBaoumGJtDem1pZE1prtPBWYhEBfTf5X1Uw19yiasiIvujSfO3CP/s1600/r1007869091.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408287021394920738" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5I796xABEuo4I4WQQ8_7gSi6a712iEl9eC0qCpRLW8ji_3FH48JEsyy81ECzZ0wAk3nrPg4VrZnWScVeHONmL9Z7XBaoumGJtDem1pZE1prtPBWYhEBfTf5X1Uw19yiasiIvujSfO3CP/s400/r1007869091.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 272px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixQQoNhjgy2JAFcxkdsOtO16m73i3xAnyosVh2im60ADmfXKfAhOp_QClACAveXYKTNjsq0BVp5kvyDsBomtsSBX_Uu-es77FGxC0sdLV_OIKmILycapujmEoAgc8KI85ZZosqQKTFXxn5/s1600/capt.photo_1259101363707-1-0.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408287041256332370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixQQoNhjgy2JAFcxkdsOtO16m73i3xAnyosVh2im60ADmfXKfAhOp_QClACAveXYKTNjsq0BVp5kvyDsBomtsSBX_Uu-es77FGxC0sdLV_OIKmILycapujmEoAgc8KI85ZZosqQKTFXxn5/s400/capt.photo_1259101363707-1-0.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 399px; height: 287px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50tBsKL1FmTmEBtO2jlIrNedhixnpM2A__BqG-rNqEpNgdSd8Cx5cUx7A4CnTRENEsiim5Lu1XctF0fja1oKIBydgIr1eqm2uEdhcw5-DvIZcJaodJ1t6ghBHiZVhz6M5Tgt1z4vDOOxI/s1600/31755327.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408287044741297794" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50tBsKL1FmTmEBtO2jlIrNedhixnpM2A__BqG-rNqEpNgdSd8Cx5cUx7A4CnTRENEsiim5Lu1XctF0fja1oKIBydgIr1eqm2uEdhcw5-DvIZcJaodJ1t6ghBHiZVhz6M5Tgt1z4vDOOxI/s400/31755327.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 282px;" /></a></p><p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">There was White House honey and sage from the garden and a menu that gave vegetables and beans — including eggplants and lentils — top billing. (For a White House keen on promoting fresh fruits and vegetables, what could be more serendipitous than a guest of honor who happens to be a <a href="http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/subjects/v/vegetarianism/index.html?inline=nyt-classifier" title="More articles about vegetarianism.">vegetarian</a>?) And the Obamas shook things up by serving, among other dishes, Indian food to an Indian delegation, typically a no-no.<br /></p><p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lyv9VG9aSI1a-JiFnCOdPdwjhDpYaMX021Jiws64eD8G2bNxsEKKanaw3CrXUvAutLRiMMAQZryU24KU26cux0I8w1pIipIXOIBBmHOT3d8XtzofSDjkostLUFAd7JDJj6EGThRc9zi3/s1600/r3404671938.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408287030798459554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lyv9VG9aSI1a-JiFnCOdPdwjhDpYaMX021Jiws64eD8G2bNxsEKKanaw3CrXUvAutLRiMMAQZryU24KU26cux0I8w1pIipIXOIBBmHOT3d8XtzofSDjkostLUFAd7JDJj6EGThRc9zi3/s400/r3404671938.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 399px; height: 292px;" /></a></p><p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">“You wouldn’t try to outdo the Indians; that would not be typical,” said Anita McBride, who served as <a href="http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/b/laura_bush/index.html?inline=nyt-per" title="More articles about Laura Bush.">Laura Bush</a>’s chief of staff and took pains to praise Mrs. Obama as moving in a new direction. “It’s the perfect combination of American food with a nod to the visiting country.” </p><p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">As for the dozens of schoolchildren invited to participate in the day’s events, many savored the chance to see the White House up close. One group of young women spent time with Mrs. Obama in the State Dining Room and learned about the history of American state dinners and sampled some pumpkin pie.</p><p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> “These events probably seem like they’re miles and miles away, like they’re just untouchable,” said Mrs. Obama to the young women, some wearing sneakers and short sleeves.</p><p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">She said she hoped this would inspire them to think harder about their place in the world around them.</p><p style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">“Who knows, maybe one of you all sitting at this table, one of our little mentees, will be living and studying somewhere in India — maybe New Delhi or Mumbai or Bangalore,” the first lady said. “Just imagine that. Start thinking about your future in that way. This visit at this table is the beginning of that for all of you.”</p>

Modern Flourishes at Obamas’ State Dinner

By RACHEL L. SWARNS WASHINGTON — It is an old tradition, a White House dinner governed by ritual and protocol that happ...

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Organic Nail Salon

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi84nrpjErRU4LORX61zjUeXI5RdE7_WJyo4_mLxLJxvINYBnovZtFVzhIJkLiGUlzlW0Tn64QHn1f2IsF964Ct5lTo0gRKmgjvt4jyhrGwET2b2o1wt0ALPglB4w3TfuSQlz95U_CYqhna/s1600-h/chi.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390476858746589202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi84nrpjErRU4LORX61zjUeXI5RdE7_WJyo4_mLxLJxvINYBnovZtFVzhIJkLiGUlzlW0Tn64QHn1f2IsF964Ct5lTo0gRKmgjvt4jyhrGwET2b2o1wt0ALPglB4w3TfuSQlz95U_CYqhna/s400/chi.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 204px;" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">If you're in need of a mani/pedi head over to <a href="http://www.chi-nailbar.com/"><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">Chi Nail Bar</span></a>. Chi uses only 100% natural ingredients and organic products. Every treatment is individually blended utilizing organic and natural products that harness the botanical and life-giving energy of plants and the sea.</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">They also do private parties so grab some girlfriends and head over to this lush green nail </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">salon.<br /><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgnahiV2r1bE1b4qD3UH0W7G6t805ylIRlz9sWF3cJCRTKnawh-FGO_xeRjeeWLLx1qdl6DT2rqDstV9ogz7aHC_pkCgCT2frIpKVLOpyIl8RoZ-GBuM8d3XTZxavUZPFY3Mn2HdIYyyKs/s1600-h/chi1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390476493121718226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgnahiV2r1bE1b4qD3UH0W7G6t805ylIRlz9sWF3cJCRTKnawh-FGO_xeRjeeWLLx1qdl6DT2rqDstV9ogz7aHC_pkCgCT2frIpKVLOpyIl8RoZ-GBuM8d3XTZxavUZPFY3Mn2HdIYyyKs/s400/chi1.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 204px;" /></a><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><span style="font-size:78%;"> Images Via </span></span><a href="http://www.carolinetran.net/"><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 0, 51);font-size:78%;" >www.carolinetran.net</span></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);font-size:85%;" ><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">Located</span> <span style="font-family:georgia;">9390 little santa monica boulevard</span> <span style="font-family:georgia;"> beverly hills california 90210</span> <a class="tel" href="http://www.chi-nailbar.com/infopage.html" style="font-family: georgia;">310.858.8803 </a></span>

Organic Nail Salon

If you're in need of a mani/pedi head over to Chi Nail Bar . Chi uses only 100% natural ingredients and organic products. Every treat...

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Green Beauty Guide

<span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">We all want to look flawless on our wedding day, or at least close to flawless. But most of us don't consider what's in the products we put on our skin. Conventional products claim to smooth wrinkles, tighten skin, give you luxurious hair, but they contain harmful and toxic chemicals. </span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">What's a green girl to do? Well fortunately The Green Beauty Guide, by Julie Gabriel has decipher labels on every cosmetic product you pick up. You'll avoid toxic and damaging chemicals with her detailed Toxic Ingredients List.</span> <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><br /><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxroMKoDyDkjrZv8VSndn35-WLbv_N1Ex1X9MfuPXCb9uKp4BgWWxs8r9izmDDfp6IdSqJm1YG-Ks0YL4XGXqvTploAMr1mFxAFbfYXPBGM0b-sH8aGEjTKLvGvAPSJy90wjZ4u-8SOu5H/s1600-h/green-beauty-guide-michelle-sm1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366225160202560178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxroMKoDyDkjrZv8VSndn35-WLbv_N1Ex1X9MfuPXCb9uKp4BgWWxs8r9izmDDfp6IdSqJm1YG-Ks0YL4XGXqvTploAMr1mFxAFbfYXPBGM0b-sH8aGEjTKLvGvAPSJy90wjZ4u-8SOu5H/s400/green-beauty-guide-michelle-sm1.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 275px; height: 400px;" /></a><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"><br />Become a cosmetic guru. You'll learn how to make your own beauty products that feed your skin, save your bank account, and are healthy for your body and the environment.</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Check out Julie's website</span> <a href="http://thegreenbeautyguide.com/"><span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0); font-style: italic;">thegreenbeautyguide.com</span></a>

Green Beauty Guide

We all want to look flawless on our wedding day, or at least close to flawless. But most of us don't consider what's in the product...

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Marrakesh House

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEici-2xJRbguaMsWU8UtR6bu-fgqaK4iwztsquIwHaeUbqUex1nFntWbJro4A9eqivHIqWB_Nov6TXyfjpiR4gsSP1CLrbZ81J9UwSPRml_dBAxBv-VtOY1WYh9-WCXeQ4_fKuwhGd-Bpee/s1600-h/redroom-323x300.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345220115349120226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEici-2xJRbguaMsWU8UtR6bu-fgqaK4iwztsquIwHaeUbqUex1nFntWbJro4A9eqivHIqWB_Nov6TXyfjpiR4gsSP1CLrbZ81J9UwSPRml_dBAxBv-VtOY1WYh9-WCXeQ4_fKuwhGd-Bpee/s400/redroom-323x300.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 323px; height: 300px;" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I touched on the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><a href="http://marrakeshhouse.com/">Marrakesh House</a></span> in Friday's post.  Here's the skinny on the newest green venue for events and weddings.  Located in Culver City, adjacent to California's newest state park, this 4,300 square foot venue blends artistic expression and environmental values.   </span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I have many Morrocan items in my house and I wish I could put it all together the way interior designer </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Charlotte Jackson has.  The tea temple is the perfect place to hold your ceremony with your guests seated around the pool and lawn. You may also choose to have cocktail hour or dinner around the pool.  </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-style: italic; line-height: 16px;"><br /></span><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345219081184773314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTDPVSyODbokGBc7yRCEfOyN7CEHp2orLjoC8E3acDLtTmRhDn_u7pBlNPr0621hUODe1G8GtD_ioFYreK4j5KbPho86Svsk74lANjve7l5zDaABqwKAxV6HphJq66iL5z3AmJb3cklUR/s400/3598525211_c1a5208179-1.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345219087393184290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIgduU6-khuz1dz4ZrRhdgMXiO5UMpbeSJeYj9IIbA8WjhM4z8Y3bxDGBnBQeshjvgUoRkKEBy8UPATfSkt6e2nB3lsOH0O2VMhBs1eatja6KgsHlet8WmOdFT76f-RaJEfpKuPHYPUfKb/s400/3598544153_3a3717d814.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">What makes this space green?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(47, 44, 41); line-height: 16px; font-size:12px;"><h3 style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 2px; font-size:1.45em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Exterior</span></span></span></h3><ul style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 25px; margin-left: 1.25em; "><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The landscaping utilized permaculture techniques. The plants used need little water, are native, or are edible trees and bushes. By trimming a neighbor’s overgrown cactus and replanting the trimmings along the edge of the house, plant life was rescued and introduced an additional plant that does not require water.</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Existing trees were pruned and the pruned branches were used to created fences around the property.</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Low-flow irrigation is used outside to water the edible and native plants that require water.</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The retaining walls around the property are all made from waste materials from other construction sites around the city. No new materials were purchased for the retaining walls.</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Cement path walkway blocks were reused, rather than pouring new walkways.</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Reclaimed barn wood was used for gates and privacy partitions around the property.</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The organic living food garden is a three season garden with a variety of edible plants. The wood used to create the planters in the garden uses non-treated lumber from Trex and post-consumer milk crates.</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">A two panel solar thermal array heats enough water for four people on average. The hot water tank is 97% energy efficient stainless steel. An on-demand hot water heater is used in the kitchen. No other gas or electric water heaters are used in the house.</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The photovoltaic (solar) system on the roof produces enough energy, about 30 kwh a day and 11,000 kwh a year, to supply approximately 60% of the house’s electricity.</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><h3 style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 2px; font-size:1.45em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Interior</span></span></span></h3><ul style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; list-style-type: disc; list-style-position: initial; list-style-image: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 25px; margin-left: 1.25em; "><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">All the wood used in the house is FSC certified (Forest Stewardship Council).</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">None of the paint used contains VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds).</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The cabinets in the kitchen and bar are made of FSC formaldehyde-free bamboo. Bamboo is a rapidly renewable product that grows to maturity within 7-10 years.</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">All insulation is fiber glass BATTS, a silicon-based formaldehyde-free material and only formaldehyde-free drywall paper was used.</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The lighting in the house uses a low-tech approach incorporating high-efficacy (provide more light with less energy) lighting by using compact florescent (CFL), cold cathode fluorescent (CCFL), tubular fluorescent (T5), IR halogen MR16s (IR MR16s), and light emitting diode (LED) lights.</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Lighting controls (dimmers and motion sensors) save electricity, make lamps (light bulbs) last longer, and turn them off when not needed.</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Toilets in the house are low-flow to reduce water consumption.</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The original kitchen cabinets were recycled into new bathroom cabinets.</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Stone floors were laid because they will last for thousands of years.</span></span></span></li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Three electric vehicle charging systems were installed in the garage</span></span></span></li></ul></li></ul></span></div></div>

Marrakesh House

I touched on the Marrakesh House  in Friday's post.  Here's the skinny on the newest green venue for events and weddings.  Located i...

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Party Eco-Style at the Marrakesh House

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">I was lucky enough to attend the </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><a href="http://marrakeshhouse.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">Marrakesh House</span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"> luncheon yesterday.  There is so much to tell you about this great location, but I'll devote an entire blog to that on Monday.  In the meantime, </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Chris Paine, director of "</span><a href="http://www.whokilledtheelectriccar.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">Who Killed the Electric Car,</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">"</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"> is having his grand opening house party there tonight.  Be sure to check out this amazing green residence and event location. E</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">ntertainment includes NAKED RHYTHM, DANYAVAAD featuring Indiriani, KCRW DJ TOM SCHNABEL, BEN LEE, and Marrakesh House resident DJ Evil. Live animals courtesy of the </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><a href="http://www.wildlifelearningcenter.com"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">WILDLIFE LEARNING CENTER</span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">, providing outreach education in wildlife biology.</span></span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(27, 38, 48); font-style: italic; line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(27, 38, 48); font-style: italic; line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: normal; ">Party starts at 6:00 pm. See you there!</span><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(27, 38, 48); font-style: italic; line-height: 16px;"><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(27, 38, 48); line-height: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344336307613888898" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhxJ9Cq_cdQDqedOpqQ-oirOv8Kf_52jI4oeRTuHI47g0xLnadmezKPj57jiGq0hUwhBe8KLhDwp4l1SRjVE6aYpaorIoXaBgWKU3Nk3C_mVCfm_kk6wjSOKpkmEr6A4gFwd38pv065k7E/s400/marrakesh-flyer-new.gif" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 400px; " /></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; line-height: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">where to purchase tickets:</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(27, 38, 48); font-style: italic; line-height: 16px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; line-height: 16px; "><a href="http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/57205"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);">Brown Paper Ticket</span></span></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(27, 38, 48); font-style: italic; line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></div></div></div></div>

Party Eco-Style at the Marrakesh House

I was lucky enough to attend the  Marrakesh House luncheon yesterday.  There is so much to tell you about this great location, but I'll...

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Real Weddings: Amber & Greg part ll

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeY_JIzySrMgl0z0rdA06sGMZRUvGSJab1D6DNCpPB2UTv_FOJzIlBjmgcl9qln-Ux9YdCXILnLNkTPqVtnOziJAiMdQAm9l4obn68MaWj55_x7oar_P4995l0aRkqFSyYQuLE2PCFiIQ/s1600-h/16Asepia161.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343257766652873026" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeY_JIzySrMgl0z0rdA06sGMZRUvGSJab1D6DNCpPB2UTv_FOJzIlBjmgcl9qln-Ux9YdCXILnLNkTPqVtnOziJAiMdQAm9l4obn68MaWj55_x7oar_P4995l0aRkqFSyYQuLE2PCFiIQ/s400/16Asepia161.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmn0FOkjKoEAKoqcx3cwbwSi-6o0kQi6VQiBBF6U2mFrqnuARbUNI-uYLyM2msjswy8P5WBGpOiwb43Evq-NXujIY9R-s6yDLJPhZcIoEhQ7Oabh_LJw86Ww21MNrXZgSk4Yl9hAKPiuJ/s1600-h/agopenarm.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"> <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343257774802598834" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmn0FOkjKoEAKoqcx3cwbwSi-6o0kQi6VQiBBF6U2mFrqnuARbUNI-uYLyM2msjswy8P5WBGpOiwb43Evq-NXujIY9R-s6yDLJPhZcIoEhQ7Oabh_LJw86Ww21MNrXZgSk4Yl9hAKPiuJ/s400/agopenarm.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">The beautiful bouquet of bloomed cream, blush, and peach roses was wrapped in cream silk with rows of pearls.</span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmn0FOkjKoEAKoqcx3cwbwSi-6o0kQi6VQiBBF6U2mFrqnuARbUNI-uYLyM2msjswy8P5WBGpOiwb43Evq-NXujIY9R-s6yDLJPhZcIoEhQ7Oabh_LJw86Ww21MNrXZgSk4Yl9hAKPiuJ/s1600-h/agopenarm.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85Sj7vua4fKrmBayPPqUBVJGVOQck6PhCHpvdZ4lJ5VobPwHPGjaXcItDln8mVk9Pa7Hdz7iG-5A_vbDH2pC2hkbDID2UgAyWInfwYX8KbMjfPN-O4AiBl8IDssULF3KLJ9T9JDWCplzO/s1600-h/9051_01.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343263854723041378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85Sj7vua4fKrmBayPPqUBVJGVOQck6PhCHpvdZ4lJ5VobPwHPGjaXcItDln8mVk9Pa7Hdz7iG-5A_vbDH2pC2hkbDID2UgAyWInfwYX8KbMjfPN-O4AiBl8IDssULF3KLJ9T9JDWCplzO/s400/9051_01.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYVNZLH7Q2XtjuW40X4r-MtcmfYLWhxcfuag658XcvgDDaIBIprsTMJtIOIz_RQQWBBOFMevWaUtRQWNHemG29Af-TiukKd10UeEvRwhf5EDmvp3TGobquCeIzQp0NcilINZW-aDx0CZqG/s1600-h/11Avideo195.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343263851768302738" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYVNZLH7Q2XtjuW40X4r-MtcmfYLWhxcfuag658XcvgDDaIBIprsTMJtIOIz_RQQWBBOFMevWaUtRQWNHemG29Af-TiukKd10UeEvRwhf5EDmvp3TGobquCeIzQp0NcilINZW-aDx0CZqG/s400/11Avideo195.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeY_JIzySrMgl0z0rdA06sGMZRUvGSJab1D6DNCpPB2UTv_FOJzIlBjmgcl9qln-Ux9YdCXILnLNkTPqVtnOziJAiMdQAm9l4obn68MaWj55_x7oar_P4995l0aRkqFSyYQuLE2PCFiIQ/s1600-h/16Asepia161.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"> </a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-style: italic;">Guest were treated to a three tier organic cake made of hazelnut and fresh raspberry. The cake was lavishly decorated with orchids, and shades of pink and cream roses.</span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvYIgv14vZb67Pfw00EV-uZTYEJsoOOcO5SqZRZZJxatMHAaAEIIw76YCY6mrUym1Pl8WUI9HHzzbGCqfK4IkpED5hwu94suWaHDn_u96psMEDaw61m1G1WMoFncOxfQkFGnOFYtQfH3Zv/s1600-h/agheadtable.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343258510505853474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvYIgv14vZb67Pfw00EV-uZTYEJsoOOcO5SqZRZZJxatMHAaAEIIw76YCY6mrUym1Pl8WUI9HHzzbGCqfK4IkpED5hwu94suWaHDn_u96psMEDaw61m1G1WMoFncOxfQkFGnOFYtQfH3Zv/s400/agheadtable.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeY_JIzySrMgl0z0rdA06sGMZRUvGSJab1D6DNCpPB2UTv_FOJzIlBjmgcl9qln-Ux9YdCXILnLNkTPqVtnOziJAiMdQAm9l4obn68MaWj55_x7oar_P4995l0aRkqFSyYQuLE2PCFiIQ/s1600-h/16Asepia161.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"> </a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeY_JIzySrMgl0z0rdA06sGMZRUvGSJab1D6DNCpPB2UTv_FOJzIlBjmgcl9qln-Ux9YdCXILnLNkTPqVtnOziJAiMdQAm9l4obn68MaWj55_x7oar_P4995l0aRkqFSyYQuLE2PCFiIQ/s1600-h/16Asepia161.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"> </a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD7kQ7LRP4dc5PVKkScOILhV-k68rG3uacHIIeH9w-xaclgYAMSqD1Aj46QRDcS_duu4aFGxYYsvNLyt0sbArCzWFcZ5gXj_mVg9dKxIR7r9YwIoEzXMbcur3Z-sOgmzZBP3k445iMtI8I/s1600-h/32Avideo070.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343257768654193186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD7kQ7LRP4dc5PVKkScOILhV-k68rG3uacHIIeH9w-xaclgYAMSqD1Aj46QRDcS_duu4aFGxYYsvNLyt0sbArCzWFcZ5gXj_mVg9dKxIR7r9YwIoEzXMbcur3Z-sOgmzZBP3k445iMtI8I/s400/32Avideo070.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-style: italic;">Love the tribute to the Beatles "Abby Road" Album Cover</span><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8R5Lra-YEBJF5psF71u_rnOQ-TkaKfTpT0P94CkGBuETKrh6qz-6QNIEq4W_d9BhEW0PH7aQ0KsKn7JjqyifrLXiRuOv8U3YdyeGPO_hPMe1uJd3ztFdctJ0wfqkWaEzlpXAVcbMRzodS/s1600-h/15Avideo162.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343257766032255314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8R5Lra-YEBJF5psF71u_rnOQ-TkaKfTpT0P94CkGBuETKrh6qz-6QNIEq4W_d9BhEW0PH7aQ0KsKn7JjqyifrLXiRuOv8U3YdyeGPO_hPMe1uJd3ztFdctJ0wfqkWaEzlpXAVcbMRzodS/s400/15Avideo162.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a>

Real Weddings: Amber & Greg part ll

The beautiful bouquet of bloomed cream, blush, and peach roses was wrapped in cream silk with rows of pearls. Guest were treated to a thre...

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Toast of the Town: Champagnes under $50

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Champagne kisses for a price everyone can afford. Even an eco bubbly!</span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Don't  wait for a special event to pop a bottle of champagne. When you really think about it, everyday is a celebration, so toast to these 5 delicious champagnes under $50.<br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Green Highlight: POP Earth is made from sustainble farmed grapes, and their labels are made of recycled paper.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-style: italic; line-height: 60px; font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">PERRIER-JOUËT GRAND</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; line-height: normal; font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-style: italic; line-height: 60px; font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> BRUT CHAMPAGNE NV</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">$20.60</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; line-height: normal; font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-style: italic; line-height: 60px; font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; line-height: normal; font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-style: italic; line-height: 60px; font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 13px; text-transform: uppercase; font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">VEUVE CLICQUOT YELLOW LABEL NV</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 60px; text-transform: none; font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">  </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; line-height: 13px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal; font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">$34.17</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); line-height: 13px;font-family:Arial;font-size:11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); line-height: normal; "><span class="price" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-weight: bold; line-height: 60px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341135903648863554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpSNZInKgWIpJ0P-2Xx62dzS0BtQIiVvJ93cz2Mes7vAlmBRDcSfx_N9obS0q1yvofRdI9-7IMqbhp1l3KHwdW1b_axmpCR2fKZ5MXF2etrC4AcoM05ufkRQrlmoB5rYYwPabxPDK4yx2h/s320/01-Perrier-jouet.jpg" style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 256px; height: 320px;" />    <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341135910818545042" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRxGeRRWCcgV_l_w3sEMQt4LIVgK7UCB5QGfWNNJwQ1jFpw8z4iloonoBprk3oY9pSNkUdcxp4UHXmY0ympL0R3hDVGsvAZlbzSfjDXE-3Qhd_l3-L7ZqP2lg3MYnm5bcebMF4_qX_Icqb/s320/09-VEUVEC-1.jpg" style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 256px; height: 320px;" />  </span></span></span></span></span></span><span class="price" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); line-height: 60px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); line-height: normal; font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); line-height: 60px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=";font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 13px; font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: normal; font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); line-height: 60px; text-transform: uppercase; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">BOLLINGER SPECIAL CUVÉE </span></span></span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-transform: none; white-space: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 13px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">$46.99</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 60px; text-transform: uppercase; "><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">      </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">    </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-transform: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">NICOLAS FEUILLATTE BRUT </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">$31.50 </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span class="price" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 0px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><p style="line-height: 1.25em; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline- vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background- margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; color:transparent;"></p><p color="transparent" style="line-height: 1.25em; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline- vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background- margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-style: normal; line-height: normal; font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341139117815228418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrA1qzoDTcxWZ5W80kbHJuUKaZgaa_6ILj3swv2to5VwKc3bxxjFyTBhqkD6-F9z908vMXoOiJKIjHDF2lJMWDU-Vwxva1anWalmqXPHFp_ZkDyXVuW2oHJDkoqceYzNc39tCfky41n_O9/s320/04-bollinger.jpg" style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 256px; height: 320px;" />         <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341135906038766594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDyIz7Rd8oVg09oskbGCXiqd1iWoYX5ZnxGZsCcNRFhXXSX7JFxs0ZtuljL06dgGEE3a8bRoeDtq6Xrek0ghrTcw0XxD22aN_oL_Pk6wLMvDnr7vgVofot87Yee2XkMR3xCxkjR8HC9pjj/s320/11-Nicolas-Feuillatte-Brut.jpg" style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 256px; height: 320px;" />       <span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:48px;">   </span></span></span></span></span></p><p style="line-height: 1.25em; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background- margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; color:transparent;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">POP Earth </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 18px; font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">$49.99,</span></span></span></span><a href="http://pommery.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">pommery.com</span></span></span></span></a></span></span></p><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 13px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: normal; "><p style="line-height: 1.25em; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background- margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; color:transparent;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;font-size:10px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; line-height: normal; font-family:Georgia;font-size:16px;"><div><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5341135914435776578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXu6NI3FtV-3l2_YUufc2pa_HFUeCj9cteT0TRRCbYwIhOOQChmf9cvrLg4ApVNn60xQHTuNDCYiqZh85mS4Mh1UnOZfcPSxsKalK3RxVt_tmfyeMCOcBwfmkh6IrGqItn5c5NgC789OY9/s320/Green-Product-Pop-Earth_articleimage.jpg" style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 270px; height: 320px;" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-style: italic; line-height: 18px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:10px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); "></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;font-size:10px;"><br /></span></div></div></span></span></p></span></span></div></span></span></span><a href="http://www.wineaccess.com/ecommerce/product-offer-search.tcl?product_id=128468" style="outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; color: rgb(19, 75, 139); text-decoration: none; " title="Compare Prices"></a></span><a href="http://www.wineaccess.com/ecommerce/product-offer-search.tcl?product_id=128468" style="outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; color: rgb(19, 75, 139); text-decoration: none; " title="Compare Prices"></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); line-height: 13px;font-family:Arial;font-size:11px;"><br /></span></div></div>

Toast of the Town: Champagnes under $50

Champagne kisses for a price everyone can afford. Even an eco bubbly! Don't  wait for a special event to pop a bottle of champagne. When...

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Eco-friendly Wedding Dress Designers You Must See

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Most green brides know about recycled invitations and organic food, but many don't know they can buy stunning, eco-friendly wedding gowns.  </span></span></span><a href="http://BluePlanetWedding.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"></span></span></span></a></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; line-height: 21px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><a href="http://BluePlanetWedding.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);">Blue Plant Wedding</span></a></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">showcased hot designers who</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"> are turning organic and fair-trade fabrics like organic silk, cotton and hemp into exquisite gowns.</span></span></span></span></span><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px; "><a href="http://olivialuca.com/home/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Olivia Luca</span></span></span></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337810210112248226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnAdtnlzYFoPoG_gvjrzfRsDJ3qAlsfqYLzVlX9Tr9hLKfiTOnaY5Y_4DDRHp1367hKrMDtzIsX70gk9xmvrxsAlTIRnsD1YoKpa-LYMEevZpx19BBxTBGE_aUNA_bE540T5_Ur4ZgS0tC/s400/olivia-luca.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" /></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px; "><a href="http://www.deborahlindquist.com/us/index_us.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Debra Lindquist</span></span></span></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337810202331681122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46OhI9R-K_2XAkxHAcs9_hnpFiXYQIfO-TA3kfBAk1a7fM7PwX1Y8ZsNo5akkfPEZV8LMzcy-B2qMCdBiJKlnxtXQAvwM3z4NAg1x71-QTKoFLA6HMqNuIYTm8kd1CkAqOb1Ac0lenTAn/s400/deborah-lindquist.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 356px;" /></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px; "><a href="http://www.wai-ching.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Chrissy Wai-Ching</span></span></span></a></span></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337810200381231058" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJTVD7BfurhedpwPZSZkW20_PT8hRD8g3YO8b2WwrROIMGxDAyKqksnMsb6c7EgOCHjbUDCiGfD0gRQm6nEPecBXCXAcCeyObJq_CnEXQGHE6afwd9MNDgZrl_-WVa7FBtNkBC0wjUK285/s400/chrissy-wai-ching.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 358px;" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); line-height: 21px;font-family:Verdana;font-size:13px;"><br /></span></div></div></div>

Eco-friendly Wedding Dress Designers You Must See

Most green brides know about recycled invitations and organic food, but many don't know they can buy stunning, eco-friendly wedding gown...

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Succulent Succulents

<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337027921121618546" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhWAYSgJp0niAfm2S_0t_KlpZE8iE1E4ITQs_DAtV9cfOMSVITgtLIZMwNccLzMLTn-4wIHPwbxpU-o2SEJrtOfrha2FkuTFYtOLMZGvlBTtYklI0XUzLAXdgEttuLgsbGpCCiZ2pJRkAU/s400/mosaic3ef07283166c6329e241078e474cbad1d506bb36.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Images Via: </span></span></span><a href="http://alovelymorning.blogspot.com/2009/01/our-wedding-diy-succulent-centerpieces.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Lovely Morning</span></span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">, </span></span></span><a href="http://www.bethbeljon.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Beth Beljon</span></span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">, </span></span></span><a href="http://with--this--ring.blogspot.com/2007_12_01_archive.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">With this Ring</span></span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">, </span></span></span><a href="http://housemartin.typepad.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Housemartin</span></span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-style: italic; ">Succulents make the perfect eco-friendly option for flowers. They don't take much water and can be replanted after your wedding, so nothing is wasted. And there's something so romantic in the idea that you can walk into your garden and be reminded of your special day.</span><br /></div><div><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337027924228698578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRqkhNUBlWBMdt5qzQh4Bb1NDLuJzV8IelcWAFOgTERRZEu_gZiOiOzYVg-8OoZtspvv3GNOG4E8IZ-Ykh-ndzOcx-tsiLM-cSuYjmIZ5LTUfGb0-_qQGA8X5i1_8nQGUKgfcpQOJjBFDV/s400/mosaic0f02b1b9a34b522efe42ec9f68a46358c0cf7862.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" /><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Image Via: </span></span><a href="http://www.dandelionranch.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">D</span></span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><a href="http://www.dandelionranch.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">andelion Ranch</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">, S</span></span><a href="http://sugarpluminvitations.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">ugar Plum Invitations</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">, </span></span><a href="http://www.toastandtables.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Toast & Tables</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">,Unknown</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Succulents come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors.  They are a perfect choice in summer heat, but are great in the fall and winter too, when many flowers are out of season.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337034609639316066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioLScmR8tLhSSr9awUhomjFgwkKC08QapLTP37d8f2GvUt-pveqdswhw7aeQjIzaqpC_2IF6AAnzNmLylivq6OF9bmoJM4BtdC__uv1kmwg-qYE_bpONSioVuK5EI9MyFGurRfpQo-IQqG/s400/mosaica1b1f04e9dd7011ba41e9d4a12e29b7d389c6a19.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Images Via: </span></span></span></span><a href="http://with--this--ring.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">With this Ring</span></span></span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">, </span></span></span></span><a href="http://http://housemartin.typepad.com/housemartin/2008/02/bridal-fashion.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Housemartin</span></span></span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">, </span></span></span></span><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Martha Stewart</span></span></span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">, A</span></span></span></span><a href="http://www.allysonmagda.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 51, 102); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">llyson Magda</span></span></span></span></a></span><br /></div></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;"><br /></span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>

Succulent Succulents

Images Via: Lovely Morning , Beth Beljon , With this Ring , Housemartin   Succulents make the perfect eco-friendly option for flowers. They ...

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April Showers...Bring an Umbrella

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Rain or shine, it's always good to be prepared.  Parasols are great for all seasons, especially for the occasional Spring shower or keeping cool in Summer. </span></span><div><br /><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><br /></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321752523298538770" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguhvFHiBHM-MlZAizgmJsEjPkAjtlstP_Ym0gjQH8et03Y34Nxvn5krWXYOjmNdLJeKiKD0ianOHexoleX2gmvhloZ6-Rc5ARDXd0Qd2djonqBJfoNDKYjZ6dntju4VDNNG5XzjRkZ3C1K/s400/monofcar.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>  <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> Pamelas Parasols</span> </span></span></span><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Our green brides will love the new Organic Collection from <a href="http://www.pamelasparasols.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Pamelas Parasols,</span></a> along with her other collections, which include bejewled, feathers, and monograms.</span></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Parasols are a great bouquet alternative for your bridesmaids.  They can also double as your bridesmaids' gifts.  <a href="http://www.bellaumbrella.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Bella Umbrellas</span></a> has a beautiful array of styles to choose from.<br /></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><img alt="Parasol" border="0" src="http://blogs1.marthastewart.com/photos/uncategorized/2007/09/07/parasol.jpg" title="Parasol" /><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"> </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Photo: Martha Stewart</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"> </span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Parasols also make for gorgeous photos!</span></span></div></div><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321477727643062914" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPgB7YD93DOrq8JBcZJrFuA_me3UtchimpaI6eFehjMxtGiEuu4Nuy91IlhKfyNsn4xJsbPt5RM6b4tZeSbhhjavsNDFox0_nxbbsufk7bbOgXY4E7Qc6qUOFMePCRSAvn6yHopVNms_9U/s400/mosaic932804.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Where to buy: </span><a href="http://www.culturalintrigue.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Cultural Intrigue</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">, </span><a href="http://www.asianideas.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Asian Ideas</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">, </span><a href="http://www.pamelasparasols.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Pamelas Parasols</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">, </span><a href="http://www.bellaumbrella.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Bella Umbrellas</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">.</span></span></span></div><div><br /></div></div></div>

April Showers...Bring an Umbrella

Rain or shine, it's always good to be prepared.  Parasols are great for all seasons, especially for the occasional Spring shower or keep...

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Eco Friendly Lingerie for Valentine's Day

<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">Sweet Dreams are made of these...There's nothing like lingerie for Valentine's Day.  Something silky, luxurious and sustainable.  These two eco and euro chic companies offer lingerie made from hemp, organic silk and soy fabrics.  They're sexy too! </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153); font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153); font-style: italic;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; "><img id="lightboxImage" src="http://luvahuva.co.uk/artisan/uploads/Magnolia_cream_border_anglaise_knicker-main.jpg" /></span><br /></div><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="lightboxImage" src="http://www.luvahuva.co.uk/artisan/uploads/Primrose_Knicker_new-main.jpg" /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">Knickers from </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><a href="http://luvahuva.co.uk/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 153, 255);">Luva Huva</span></a></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301840517784623522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYh7Iw6OWSpVrKvIFXsqDADXOUTBhR7tCc0QfBkeuRb3YNDvHC9vdQ6p2wqpc3OwJ4LokRo5KsI_1LMYw9oWCNt8OTvvMq8yLcj_JI9IT16sfQzikWFAt3pzoUp0VGdu0dXKU-5BuVEYDn/s400/enamore.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 363px;" /><img src="http://www.enamore.co.uk/onlineshop/images/BBB_lg.jpg" style="-webkit-user-select: none" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">Bra and shorts set from <a href="http://www.enamore.co.uk/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(255, 153, 255);">Enamore</span></a></span></span></span></div><div><div><div><br /><div><br /></div></div></div></div>

Eco Friendly Lingerie for Valentine's Day

Sweet Dreams are made of these...There's nothing like lingerie for Valentine's Day.  Something silky, luxurious and sustainable.  Th...

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Little Sweet Treats for Valentine's

<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297726112126157138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPWl4P4UjxZ-NWFtyS9_FgNvdssNnfvqMFG6qpSFM037OM00G3GblVNkFuzde8rrOqHOSWPzSjBHUfp-wZzrHjLL8zmWmvO2Prv3D7l9_dwIDTOqly8JCHUrryVV8sMJl5edmgpRSHIHZ_/s400/se15.gif" style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 226px;" /><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297726222983898978" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPxTcXmr29IELiR-sqBGbw4pGNxaA94u_1NSyPlqdi9rU0jtylCRwPAUsSmEoP-ZZudMU8hqdbiVZgcaS8ZeNp8_csuNGC4kcUB9weefkfxhSCgwmPJpb5zgDPD9o1BwcKLcV-gLXgvwFA/s400/se16.gif" style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 275px; height: 202px;" /><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">I found these great cookies just in time for Valentine's Day.  <a href="http://www.littlelaurasweets.com/">Little Laura's Sweets</a> is a modern artisan baking company, based in </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">Hermosa</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"> Beach, California, who use natural, organic and seasonal </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);">ingredients. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(153, 153, 153);"> Little Laura's Sweets provides delicious, whimsical and unique treats that will remind you of days gone by, yet have a modern flair. </span> <br /><div><br /><br /></div></div>

Little Sweet Treats for Valentine's

I found these great cookies just in time for Valentine's Day.   Little Laura's Sweets is a modern artisan baking company, based in ...

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