The Top Shelf

Hello, September! It’s taking every ounce of me not to break out the boots, blazers and tights. That, coupled with our still pretty warm weather, is making it challenging to decide to what to wear each morning! With that in mind, I’ve been trying to keep things light and not dive head first into Fall fashion… just yet. Happy Friday and cheers to the weekend!

Button Down Shirt: Ninety (purchased at a consignment sale)

Layering Cami - Forever 21

Sash Belt - Nine West - (borrowed from a dress)

Black Zippered Leggings - Express

Black Suede Pumps - Banana Republic, Mad Men Collection

p.s. next time I’ll remember to add some jewelry!

Wedding Day Keepsake Frame

 A few months ago my sister had asked if I happened to write down the speech I gave at her wedding. I did keep my speech for this very moment however, the problem is that it looks like this….

 

Not exactly the most attractive looking piece of paper. So, that day I made a mental note to come up with a creative way to gift that speech to her all over again. Here’s what I came up with:

 

I love that her photographer captured this moment of us right after I had finished speaking – perfect for this keepsake. Come to think of it, I also have one of my brother in law and I in the same stance, sorry Jason – next time I’ll include you!

Make Your Own

Total Time: 60 minutes (note it took me longer to figure out how I wanted the wording to be positioned just FYI)

Total Cost: Under $20 (you can probably do this under $5 if you’re really good)

 Supplies Needed:

·        Frame ($17 – Target. Thrift one for far less if you have the time)

·         Matting (Included.  Create your own with cardstock or cardboard)

·        Ribbon in wedding colors (Stockpiled. Ask your bride, she’s bound to have some left over)

·        Hi-Res Photo ($1.69 printed at CVS, if you’re going larger than 4x6 try to get a high res file, it’s prettier)

·        Computer Paper or Cardstock (I used parchment color resume paper to compliment the classic colors)

·        Computer

·        Printer

·        Scissors

·        Hot Glue Gun

·        Hot Glue Stick

Step One: Type It Out

I found that using a two column outline in Word worked best. Then I played around with size and font until it was even on both sides. This was the end product of about five other drafts so I encourage you to play around with fonts/sizes/layouts to see what works best with your text.

Step Two: Print It Out

I printed on resume paper in a parchment color for a richer feel than standard computer paper – cardstock would work great too I just didn’t have any in the color I wanted on hand.

Step Three: Glue It On

Start with your text sheet. Use a Thin Line of glue along the top edge of the matting, Secure. Repeat with the Bottom edge and other side of text.  Be sure to use the hot glue sparingly to avoid big globs or puffiness.

Gluing in the above manner will allow pockets on each side, string your ribbon through the and glue. I wrapped about 2 inches of ribbon on the back of the matting and glued there to reduce puffiness from the hot glue. Repeat on lower edge. Cut four small, triangle pieces and glue to each corner. I added one more layer of gray ribbon to match her wedding colors. Another personalized touch!  

Step Four: Put It Together

Assemble photo, matting, and frame backing and you are complete.

Wow, August is officially over! Where did the summer go? Although I love the long days and sun dresses, I can not wait for Fall!

Happy Friday and keep an eye on our blog because we’re debuting our weekly, 60 minute DIY post tomorrow! Hint: it has something to do with weddings! :)

Chambray Shirt: Cotton Exchange

Jeans: Gap

Necklace & Bracelet: Lia Sophia

Belt: Banana Republic

Shoes: Dexter (Payless)