It has been literally for. ev. er. Since I posted one of my tabletops. Shame on Manda. Bad, bad Manda. Sorry about that guys! It’s not for lack of photos or lack of trying… it’s just the time! But, you can only love me now because here come two [well, one kinda two] tables right atcha!

I became obsessed with the cool, modern pallet of poppy pink, yummy warm orange against a stale, slate grey backdrop. The 3 together became absolutely drool-worthy! I knew I wanted to use poppies “sprouting” from grass for the centerpieces and the idea of a dual centerpiece became equally appealing to me. Two trays, the same size, shape and color. Filled with grass, then poppies bursting out towards each place setting. Fabulous. Of course, what’s better than having a bud and budlet tucked into each napkin! I chose to do a modern style long plate [which I love], with a modern take on the classic “menu fold” napkin that we all see these days- wrapping the plate. I did a salad plate above each place setting and to the right, leave the glasses lined on the left. So modern, simple and chic. That’s what I’m all about. LOOK at those classy flutes! Ugh, it’s love!

I chose a different colored flower for each napkin. That may be THEEE best part about buying poppies: it’s a mixed bag of color. SO organic, natural, and wild!

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FINALLY… the reception!  You read awhile ago about the process of choosing my floor plan, and saw the layout of my reception.  As you may recall, we chose two 24′ estate tables, and here is how the centerpieces shaped up!  I was pretty much in love with them, so excuse the gratuitous amount of photos…

{Jessica Claire}

{Jessica Claire}

{Jessica Claire}

{Jessica Claire}

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So, being home this week, I’ve been finalizing a lot of things here at home before I have to go back to California for my last quarter of my first year at my MBA program (was that confusing?). I have lots of DIY projects that I’ve been documenting this week, like last Sunday’s hair clip. So DEFINITELY stay tuned for fun with mossy monograms, flowergirl bouquets, blooming branches, and some info on my vendors!

We finally decided on the colors for our table linens this week…we’ve decided to go with an ivory underlay with a chocolate brown runner and sage green napkins. I’m keeping with my favor of a single, fresh plum at each plate…though it’s not quite plum season yet, so I replaced them in these photos with a beautiful purple anemone.

Close up of one of the 28 little birdies I bought (for $.75/each) at Michael’s last week to decorate the tables with.

These table numbers were super easy, and cheap. I picked up (on clearance, from Pottery Barn) a set of 14 birch slivers, for $4. The stamp set (by Martha Stewart) was $9, and I colored the ink in myself. Total cost for 14 table numbers = $13! Plus, I loved the way the wood grain picked up the ink…it makes it look as though the numbers are stained on!

For vases, we are using silver pieces of different levels, purchased at flea markets and antique stores, or just found around the house! This little tin cup was the perfect size for a couple of perfect spring anemones.

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