Search Results for: winter

Romantic Black, White, and Gold Calligraphed Stationery Inspiration

A bit of dark and moody stationery inspiration is kind of perfect for winter, don’t you think? Embrace the coziness of shorter winter days and the sparkle of the holiday season with some romantic black, white, and gold calligraphed stationery inspiration from Kristin at Lustre Theory – featuring the gorgeous calligraphy of Seniman Calligraphy and dreamy handmade paper from Fringe & Rose. You’ll find a few of my favorite things in this inspirational suite, from beautiful gold wax to a moody floral envelope liner and shimmery gold ink on black envelopes. So pretty!

Romantic Black, White, and Gold Calligraphy Stationery Inspiration by Lustre Theory with Seniman Calligraphy on Fringe & Rose Handmade Paper

From Kristin: I wanted to create stationery inspiration that was dark and whimsical but still had romantic tones to it. Almost gothic in style. The styling of this suite was very important to give it those mysterious moody vibes. I used black linen fabric for the background but chose an off white cheese cloth to add texture and help the black paper pieces stand out more.

Romantic Black, White, and Gold Calligraphy Stationery Inspiration by Lustre Theory with Seniman Calligraphy on Fringe & Rose Handmade Paper

The cotton rag paper is handmade by Fringe and Rose. I chose this particular paper because of its loose uneven edges and textured surface. The wax seals are messier than you might normally see, with drops and dribbles. I just let the wax burn right off the stick and drip directly onto the paper and ribbon, creating those black flecks you see in the gold.

Romantic Black, White, and Gold Calligraphy Stationery Inspiration by Lustre Theory with Seniman Calligraphy on Fringe & Rose Handmade Paper

Romantic Black, White, and Gold Calligraphy Stationery Inspiration by Lustre Theory with Seniman Calligraphy on Fringe & Rose Handmade Paper

If you look close enough you’ll see the script text on the cotton paper pieces is a quote from “The Tell-Tale Heart” By Edgar Allan Poe – because, details!

“It is impossible to say how first the idea entered my brain; but once conceived, it haunted me day and night. Object there was none. Passion there was none. I loved the old man. He had never wronged me. He had never given me insult. For his gold I had no desire. I think it was his eye! yes, it was this! He had the eye of a vulture –a pale blue eye, with a film over it. Whenever it fell upon me, my blood ran cold; and so by degrees –very gradually –I made up my mind to take the life of the old man, and thus rid myself of the eye forever.”
The Tell-Tale Heart – By Edgar Allan Poe

Romantic Black, White, and Gold Calligraphy Stationery Inspiration by Lustre Theory with Seniman Calligraphy on Fringe & Rose Handmade Paper

Romantic Black, White, and Gold Calligraphy Stationery Inspiration by Lustre Theory with Seniman Calligraphy on Fringe & Rose Handmade Paper

Romantic Black, White, and Gold Calligraphy Stationery Inspiration by Lustre Theory with Seniman Calligraphy on Fringe & Rose Handmade Paper

Romantic Black, White, and Gold Calligraphy Stationery Inspiration by Lustre Theory with Seniman Calligraphy on Fringe & Rose Handmade Paper

Romantic Black, White, and Gold Calligraphy Stationery Inspiration by Lustre Theory with Seniman Calligraphy on Fringe & Rose Handmade Paper

Thanks Kristin!

 

Stationery Design: Lustre Theory

Handmade Paper: Fringe & Rose

Envelopes: Cards & Pockets

Calligraphy: Seniman Calligraphy

Ribbon: Silk & Willow

 

 

Photo Credits: Lustre Theory

Green and Neutral Holiday Gift Wrap Inspiration

Now that we’ve got our Christmas shopping mostly under control, it’s time to move onto gift wrap! I put just as much time into thinking about the wrapping paper and ribbon as I do the actual gift inside, and I tend to switch my color palette from year to year. I’ve definitely been feeling more of a subdued holiday color palette this year – mostly deep greens paired with neutrals (including blush, cream, white, and black) and pops of gold and red. So today I thought I’d share some green and neutral holiday gift wrap inspiration and resources!

Okay, so let’s start with the wrapping paper. I always decide on a color palette before choosing patterns, and this year’s color palette was deep green, cream, white, black, gold, and blush with just a wee bit of red. I find that you can mix any pattern as long as you stick to a particular color palette, so there’s a mix of everything in here: plaid, dots, stripes, and even lettering this year!

The Sugar Paper for Target holiday collection has become one of my go-to wrapping paper resources the last couple of years – the patterns are just so cute! I particularly loved the gold foil snow dots, pale pink with gold dots, and cream and black Santa lettering patterns. I also incorporated a few plaid and striped patterns from Copper Paper Co. and an abstract pattern from Our Heiday! I’ll put all the sources at the bottom of the post for you.

When it comes to ribbons, I always start with Angela Liguori‘s beautiful Italian ribbons – she really makes the most beautiful ribbon in the most beautiful colors. I’m especially loving her new deep green color (called Cypress), which is available in a variety of tight weave widths. I used several of Angela’s drittofilo ribbons this year (the ones with thin piping along each edge), along with a metallic loose weave ribbon and 1/8″ metallic braided ribbon.

It can be tricky to know which size ribbon to choose – but I generally go by the size of the box: a larger gift (and larger box) requires a wider ribbon, while a smaller box requires a smaller ribbon. You can also try combining a few thinner ribbons to create the illusion of a wider ribbon. I also love wrapping a thin ribbon (like the 1/8″ metallic braided ribbon) around a box several times to create added texture and interest. 

I also normally try to incorporate a wired ribbon into my collection for wrapping larger boxes, but I just couldn’t find anything I really loved this year! So I picked up this blush pink velvet ribbon from the Sugar Paper for Target collection, which I’m saving for a special shared present that my husband and I are planning to give to our daughters for Christmas. I also really love the velvet ribbon colors in this shop. Velvet is so dreamy this time of year!

RESOURCES

Gift Wrap

Sugar Paper for Target in gold foil snow dots, pale pink with gold dots, and cream and black Santa lettering

Copper Paper Co. in holiday plaid, poppy red stripe, and evergreen plaid

Our Heiday Winter Colorscape Gift Wrap

Additional independent gift wrap resources: Amy Heitman, Idlewild Co., Shannon Kirsten, Paula & Waffle, Snow & Graham, Fox & Fallow, and Knot & Bow

Ribbons

Angela Liguori tight weave cotton ribbon in cypress – both 1 1/2″ width and 1/4″ width – and striped natural/black 1 1/2″ ribbon, metallic loose weave ribbon in jade/gold, and drittofilo ribbon in natural/red, blush/rose gold, natural/black, petal/white, and natural/gold (I just keep adding to my collection each year!)

Sugar Paper for Target velvet ribbon

Tulip Bloom 3/4″ velvet ribbon

So that’s my deep green and neutral gift wrap for this year! What colors did you choose this year? Do you pick specific colors or patterns for each recipient, or use the same pattern for the whole family? Tell me, tell me!

Creative Direction and Styling: Nole Garey of Oh So Beautiful Paper

Gift Wrap Styling: Kelsey Bethune of Tart Event Co. 

Photo Credits: Nole Garey for Oh So Beautiful Paper

Winter Cocktail Workshop!

For those of you in the DC area, join our resident cocktail expert Andrew for a winter cocktail workshop this Sunday from 3-5 pm! You’ll sample three fantastic recipes with a focus on holiday entertaining, learn Andy’s tried and true techniques for making delicious drinks at home, and go home with the recipes for each cocktail. It’s going to be so much fun – sign up right here! We’ll also have a selection of our vintage glassware and barware available for sale before and after the class, so feel free to stop by if you’re on the hunt for some unique holiday gifts – or beautiful vintage glassware to decorate your own bar cart.

Spiced Winter Punch

We had so much fun at our first cocktail workshop at Red Barn Mercantile in October, we couldn’t wait to do another one! This workshop will be focused on holiday recipes – a punch for holiday entertaining, a perfect cocktail for New Year’s Eve (hint: it involves Champagne), and a recipe for cozy winter nights at home. Plus we’ll share some of our favorite spirits and mixers for stocking your home bar and send you home with all the recipes! 

Charles Dickens’ Punch

Sign up for the winter cocktail class right here!

Holiday Workshops at Common Room Studio!

DC friends – are you ready to make some handmade holiday gifts and wrap your presents in style? Join us for a couple of holiday workshops at Common Room Studio! We’re joining forces with our friends at Penny Post to host a holiday gift wrap party on Saturday, December 8, then Kelly Laughlin of Odette Press will host paper marbling and bookbinding workshops on Sunday, December 9. Details below!

Beautiful Holiday Gift Wrap Pairings

First up, gift wrap! Join us on Saturday, December 8 from 4 – 7 pm for a holiday gathering that is part workshop, part holiday party. Penny Post will teach you how to wrap and ribbon like a pro, and provide plenty of gift wrap and ribbon to get you started, then I’ll share a few DIY ideas for embellishing your gifts! Bring your unwrapped presents,we’ll provide all the supplies! Oh, and we’ll even have snacks from Buttercream Bakeshop and our Spiced Winter Punch to enjoy! If all of that isn’t enough, everyone in attendance will receive a $10 Penny Post gift card to spend on additional wrap, cards, ribbons, gift tags, or whatever else strikes your fancy. It’s going to be so fun – sign up right here!

Kelly Laughlin Paper Marbling

On Sunday, December 9 join us for a day of making handmade gifts with Kelly Laughlin of Odette Press. Join us for a paper marbling workshop from 10 am – noon, where you’ll make your own collection of marbled paper to turn into notecards, gift tags, and more! Then join us for a bookbinding workshop and learn how  to make hand stitched journals from 1 – 3 pm! Bookbinding workshop participants will also receive a tool kit that you can use to make additional journals at home. Both workshops are great for beginners and all supplies will be provided. Come have fun and make some one of a kind holiday gifts while you’re at it!

Bookbinding Workshop at Common Room Studio with Odette Press

Hope to see you there!

Friendsgiving 2018

Thanksgiving is just around the corner! Are you hosting this year? What about Friendsgiving? We always go up to my in-laws for Thanksgiving, but I have dreams of hosting my entire family someday. And now that my kids are a bit older, we might even be able to pull off hosting a small Friendsgiving gathering! Today I’m teaming up with Wheatley Vodka and a few seriously talented DC-area creatives to dream up my ideal cozy Friendsgiving celebration. And in addition to table inspiration, we’re sharing printable stationery and a couple of holiday cocktail recipes that you can make this holiday season!

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

I imagine an informal potluck style dinner with cozy candles, delicious cocktails, and of course some of our closest friends for company. And whether I’m planning a birthday party or a small dinner gathering, I always start by choosing the color palette. Neutrals are perfect any time of year, but I also brought in a few seasonal pops of color like burgundy, rust, and mustard yellow in the flowers and a few of the details. So cozy and welcoming!

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

The table settings are pretty simple, which is perfect for an informal gathering. Light gray ceramic plates, woven placemats for texture, some of our favorite glassware, and a couple of vintage brass candlesticks. Lori and Colleen from Wld Wst, a local floral design studio here in the DC area, made the most beautiful fall floral arrangement for our table. I also made a few DIY pom-poms in our fall color palette and wrapped them around knotted dinner napkins in mismatched colors (we used white, light blue, and pink). One of these days I’ll learn how to properly fold a napkin, but for now I’m really liking the napkins this way!

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

You know we’re all about the signature cocktail, and the holidays are no exception. Wheatley Vodka is made by the same folks behind Buffalo Trace Distillery, which has been making bourbon whiskey along the banks of the Kentucky River for more than 200 years. That’s more than two centuries of spirit-making knowledge! Wheatley Vodka is crafted in small batches using a one of a kind micro-still, using the same red winter wheat grain used for Weller and Pappy Van Winkle bourbons. The red winter wheat grain gives Wheatley Vodka a smooth, delicate finish that is pure and crisp on the nose, with hints of soft vanilla. It’s pretty much perfect for crafting holiday cocktails!

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

We made two holiday cocktail recipes with Wheatley Vodka for this Friendsgiving celebration: a bright and fizzy take on the classic French 75 (served in the coupe glass above and garnished with fresh herbs) and a winter punch that you can make in a huge batch for larger gatherings!

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Cocktail illustration by Bright Room Studio

Wheatley 75

2 oz Wheatley Vodka
1 oz Lemon Juice
1/2 oz Simple Syrup
1/2 oz Orange Liqueur
1/4 oz Aquavit

Shake the ingredients in a cocktail shaker and strain into a coupe glass. Top with sparkling wine and garnish with a sprig of rosemary or thyme. Enjoy!

The Wheatley 75 is bright, effervescent, and a little bit tart – absolutely perfect for this season! If you’re making this cocktail for a group of people, you can even mix up 2-3 at a time in your cocktail shaker, then just top with sparkling wine in the glass. We used prosecco, but any sparkling wine should work!

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Cocktail illustration by Bright Room Studio

Spiced Winter Punch

1 bottle Wheatley Vodka
1 bottle Apple Cider (about 64 oz)
3 cups Lemon Juice
1 1/2 cups Cinnamon Syrup
1 1/2 cups Orange Liqueur
6 oz Allspice Dram
48 dashes Cardamom Bitters

Combine all the ingredients in a punch bowl and fill with ice and citrus slices. Serve in punch glasses and garnish with seasonal herbs or a cinnamon stick. Enjoy!

We’ve gotten so many requests over the years for an easy winter punch, and I’m beyond thrilled with how this recipe turned out! It’s basically all of my favorite fall flavors in one cocktail. Feel free to adjust the quantities depending on how many people you’re expecting – this recipe will definitely fill up a punch bowl, so cut the ingredients in half if you’re expecting a smaller gathering.

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Another favorite party tip: I always a drink station where friends and family can gather and chat before sitting down for dinner. All you need is a big punch bowl filled with spiced winter punch, a cheese board for snacking, and a floral arrangement – or a vase filled with eucalyptus or foraged greenery. A little bit of greenery can go a long way and helps to balance bottles or punch bowls on the other side of the credenza.

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Lindsey from Bare Ink Co. created these absolutely stunning invitations for our Friendsgiving. I love the way Lindsey’s lettering feels both a bit fancy but also relaxed and informal – perfect for a Friendsgiving potluck!

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Lindsey also made food and drink menus and the sweetest little conversation cards that you can place on each plate in lieu of place cards! I’m so excited to offer the menus and conversation cards as a printable download for all of you. Just download the files at the bottom of this post, print on regular letter-sized card stock, then cut out around the black outline! You can add your own text in Adobe programs if you have them, or just drop the entire file into Word. Easy peasy. We printed our menus on both vellum and card stock, and it’s absolutely impossible for me to pick a favorite!

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

We also personalized the invitations and menus with a single brushstroke of dark green paint on the left hand side. It makes every invitation and menu feel personalized, and it’s such an easy way to bring more of your color palette into your stationery!

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

I know the food is the heart of the holiday season, but it’s definitely more our style to make a signature drink or two instead of a traditional Thanksgiving dish. I love the idea of giving your guests drink menus instead of food menus at a holiday gathering – especially if you’re doing a potluck style dinner! We placed our drink menus right on the plate so guests could keep them as a reference while trying the different cocktails.

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

And seriously, how cute are these little conversation cards? You can download them through the links at the bottom of the post! We placed them on custom engraved wood coasters by Michele from Meant to Be Calligraphy. Michele also engraved one of the Wheatley Vodka bottles with the word “gather” and I can’t think of a better sentiment for this upcoming holiday season.

Cozy Friendsgiving Celebration and Holiday Cocktail Recipes

I hope you all have a wonderful Friendsgiving weekend and Thanksgiving holiday! If you make any of our holiday cocktail recipes, please be sure to tag @beautifulpaper and @wheatleyvodka on Instagram so we can see how they turn out!

 

PRINTABLE FOOD MENU

PRINTABLE DRINK MENU

PRINTABLE CONVERSATION CARDS

 

Creative Direction and Styling: Nole Garey of Oh So Beautiful Paper

Prop Styling: Joanna Carden

Stationery and Calligraphy: Lindsey Swink of Bare Ink Co.

Cocktail Recipes and Vintage Glassware: Liquorary

Florals: Lori Tran and Colleen Rogin-West of Wld West

Wood and Glass Engraving: Meant to Be Calligraphy

Cocktail Recipe Illustrations: Bright Room Studio

Venue: Common Room Studio

Photography: Lauren Louise Collective

 

This post was created in partnership with Wheatley Vodka. All content and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make Oh So Beautiful Paper possible!