Would You Like a Spot of Tea?

I've been up since 4am to watch the Royal Wedding coverage. I think I could use more than one cup of tea to get me through the rest of today.

Was that wedding beautiful, or what? I loved seeing all of the funky hats, but the most wonderful part was the anticipation leading up to Kate's arrival.

There had been so much speculation of what her gown would be. I myself had always thought it would be a full skirt, like she had, but I wasn't convinced it would be lace. What a pleasant surprise, it was. Her gown, designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen was reminiscent of one of my favorite gowns of all time-- Grace Kelly's. Hopefully this is a sign for the return of the lace sleeve wedding gown.

Kate MIddleton's incredible gown.

Grace Kelly, in 1956.

The music, Westminster Abbey, a prince, it could not have been more of a fairytale. Kate Middleton was so composed and regal. I would have been a giggling buffoon, had I been in her shoes.

I will remember this morning for the rest of my life! I sat in my living room with a robe and a tiara, nearly brought to tears by the marvelous ceremony. My phone is nearly dead from the frantic text messaging I did with family and friends. I think Twitter may explode!

What a morning!

Now, how will I get on with the rest of my day? My life now seems dull and common!

Retro Cocktails

Signature cocktails are a great way to mix up the regular wine and beer options, without footing the bill for a fully open bar. After a trip to The Usual in Fort Worth, I'm convinced the best spirits for a vintage inspired reception are Prohibition Era cocktails. 

My favorite mixed drink in the world, the Moscow Mule, was also a top choice for my grandfather. It's pretty, tastes great, and packs quite the punch.

Moscow Mule

It calls for 1 ounce of vodka, 1tsp sugar, fresh lime juice, fresh mint, and 1/2 a cup of ginger beer. A lime is the perfect garnish. 

One of the more popular and delicious drinks is the Sidecar. You'll need cognac, Cointreau, and lemon juice shaken over ice. Rumor has it this drink has origins in France, but it was still all of the rage back when it wasn't allowed to be. 

Sidecar

For your whiskey lovers, it's hard to say no to an Old Fashioned. This delectable cocktail has 2 oz of bourbon, 2 dashes bitters, 1 splash of water, 1 tsp sugar, a maraschino cherry and an orange wedge to garnish. Drink up!

Old Fashioned

You Can Never Have Too Many Aprons

Still haven't found the best idea for your bridesmaids, mothers, or shower gifts? I have a thought for you! A few weeks ago, I went to the Cowgirl Hall of Fame in Fort Worth, TX to see the Apron Chronicles exhibit. I was really excited, because I've started quite the collection of my own. The exhibit is very unique and interesting, a great way to spend time with my mother and aunt. Hung across the ceilings are countless vintage aprons. Along the walls are stories from men and women, young and old, sharing American tales of aprons and the people who wore them. We even got to try on a few beautiful aprons ourselves...

Anyway, maybe it was the fact that I received a sewing machine the night before, maybe there were too many adorable combinations, but an idea popped into my head! Make each of your bridesmaids their very own, personalized aprons. Use their favorite colors, concepts, or trimmings.

For your eco-friendly mate, use recycled fabrics. If you have a girly girl for a friend, cover hers with lace and frills. They are bound to be something that the women in your life will love for years to come.f.

If you live in Fort Worth, this weekend the museum is having a soiree to celebrate the end of the exhibit. Bring the women in your life, grandmothers, cousins, and best friends, and go check out some incredible American history.

It's a Nice Day for a White Wedding

Remember, if you go all white, the detail has to be in the textures and lines. This can be a really modern and beautiful look, but only when it's done well. 

The Four Seasons

Ask Meg

I have had so many readers send me questions about these darling shoes from my Mellow Yellow post in December.

While the originals are discontinued, I can help you find an almost identical look.

First, get this pair of Benjamin Walk shoes called Flash. If the heel is to high, they have a few very similar options with less height. 

Then head over to my favorite website, Etsy, and get these perfect yellow shoe clips. You have the a very similar look for a fraction of the price! 

For more questions, e-mail me at matrimonialmeg@gmail.com

Cheers!

A friend of mine found these too-cute personalized wine glasses on Etsy, they are such fun bridesmaid gifts! FizzyArtist will personalize wine glasses, champagne flutes, beer pilsners, low-balls, martini glasses, coffee mugs, and more! Send her pictures of you and your girls, or just give her general descriptions. They can be in your bridesmaids favorite colors or use the hues for your wedding!

These are just right for sipping mimosas while having your hair done or toasting at a bachelorette party.

Don't forget the boys! Order Beer glasses with your last name and wedding date for your groomsmen.

So you and your fiance don't feel left out, you have have some too! These would also be fun gifts to give to another bride and groom.

For pure entertainment value, I think these are rather amusing.

I'm off to the liquor store to buy a bottle of Pino Grigio and have a girls night in. Happy Friday to you, and don't forget to check out FizzyArtist on etsy! I think her custom wine glasses may make excellent birthday gifts, too.