Daily Dose of Chocolate

52 Weeks of Mail

2011-10-04T00:35:00.000-04:00

I know, I know; I've been a bad blogger. A non-existent blogger to be exact. I do apologize. Please bear with me as I try to find a balance between raising two boys under the age of 2, running my business and everything else that's on my list of things to do. I'll get there, I promise!

In the meantime... I ran across this great event that is about to go underway...52 Weeks of Mail. If you're anything like me, your daily trip to the mailbox usually ends up with a hand full of bills, a couple miscellaneous catalogs that you have no time to peruse and a brochure for the latest and greatest retirement home (are they trying to tell me something?). How special do you feel on the rare occasion that you actually receive a hand-written, lovingly thought out correspondence from a friend and loved one? So I'm making it a point, between diaper changes and trips to Michaels, to send out a handmade card each and every week for the next year. Are you game? I triple dog dare you!

Gilded Nuptials

2011-06-18T16:22:00.000-04:00

Hello! Yes, I'm still alive. No, I haven't slept in about 3 weeks. We recently welcomed our second child and couldn't be happier (or more tired). Nevertheless, here is my latest Etsy Treasury, featuring items from the fabulous Etsy Wedding Divas to create an elegantly gilded wedding. Enjoy!

The Color of Love

2011-05-14T23:24:00.000-04:00

I know, I know - I've been a bad blogger. I admit my blogging has been neglected as of late and for that I do apologize. Luckily though, it's for good reason - I've been very busy working with some wonderful brides and grooms on some incredibly fantastic custom invitations. I hope to have more time to devote to blogging and share some great wedding related goodness soon, but in the meantime, here is my latest Etsy Treasury, featuring items from the fabulous Etsy Wedding Divas to create a handmade red hot wedding day in the name (and color) of love. Enjoy!

A Romantic Renewal

2011-04-25T19:52:00.003-04:00

image courtesy of Ivy & Aster

I confess, I've pretty much been planning my vow renewal since the day after our wedding almost three years ago. While it may be a few more years before we reach that special day, I think I just found the perfect dress! This beautiful new dress from Ivy & Aster is the perfect combination of chic, understated and romantic, going along flawlessly with that outdoor garden celebration that is yet to come. Simply gorgeous! And be sure to check out the rest of their new collection, including some unique options for bridesmaids.

Fit For A Queen

2011-04-18T00:00:00.003-04:00

Here is my latest Etsy Treasury, featuring items from the fabulous Etsy Wedding Divas to create a wedding fit for a queen. So break out the tiara, grab some tea and crumpets and have fun planning your fairy tale wedding to that lucky prince charming.

Bursts of Inspiration

2011-04-11T10:45:00.000-04:00

image courtesy of Lilly Pulitzer - download full image size for your desktop

First, let me apologize for my absence. Between being a "running a business from home mom" with a cold that just won't relent and 8 weeks away from having our second child, my blogging has suffered. While I get back on track, head on over to LillyPulitzer.com for some lovely inspiration, full of bold, retro-style prints and bright colors. Now back to my unsweetened decaf hot tea.

A Divalicious Wedding

2011-03-30T04:00:00.047-04:00

I recently became a member of the prestigious Etsy Wedding DIVAS and am extremely excited to be a part of such an inspiring and talented team, to say the least. To share some of the wonderful items and shops that I am proudly in company with, I created a treasury list with just a handful of the great items available from these wedding artisans. And be sure to head over to Project Wedding where the team is featured in an impressive $1,000 Handmade Wedding Giveaway.

Vintage Floral Invitation

2011-03-28T12:12:00.006-04:00

Here's another design just added to my Etsy shop...a contemporary take on a vintage flower motif. This is a simple yet elegant design that will look great in any monochromatic color scheme or even in contrasting bold colors. Head over to the shop for more details.

Yay Spring!

2011-03-21T10:37:00.008-04:00

photographs by Erin Hearts Court

Today is the first official day of spring, so naturally I have flowers on the brain. I wanted to share these gorgeous flowers by La Partie Events from Jacqui & Amir's elegantly charming wedding. I love the "just picked from the garden" feel and magnificent collaboration of colors. Visit Megan's blog for more images of the big day.

For Japan With Love

2011-03-17T21:14:00.004-04:00

In honor of those lives affected and to pay respect to those lives lost by the tragedies in Japan, we will be taking part in the Blogger's Day of Silence for Japan on Friday, March 18th and remaining silent for the day. Our hearts and prayers go out to all.

A Gumball Wedding - The Treats

2011-03-14T04:00:00.016-04:00

photo courtesy of Phillymag.com

What better way to wrap up our gumball wedding set than with the sweet treats. First, we go to the cake. Adorning this beautifully modern cake from Truli Confectionary Arts are gumballs of various sizes, creating a bold yet fun statement.

photo courtesy of Kara's Party Ideas

And how about these cute little cupcakes by Dippidee, via Kara's Party Ideas. Kara put together this Gumball Birthday Party for HGTV and topped these adorable cupcakes with, what else, gumballs!

photo courtesy of Kara's Party Ideas

And these are gumball machine cake pops! I have been infatuated with cake pops for a long time and these are the perfect, quirky addition to our gumball wedding treats. Check out Kara's blog posting for even more great gumball ideas and thanks for following along. I hope you had as much fun as I did!

A Gumball Wedding - The Centerpieces

2011-03-11T04:00:00.006-05:00

photo courtesy of Lindsay Comer Photography

Continuing with our gumball themed wedding, check out this adorable gumball topiary I found. Great for an outdoor celebration and can even double as a favor! But, if you're not feeling too crafty, you could have your florist join in on the fun with these beautiful centerpieces...

photo courtesy of Party Wishes Blog

Donna at Party Wishes filled tall glass cylinders with an array of colorful gumballs and bright gerbera daisies for a festive touch to her celebration. For a more formal look, stick with one or two colors of gumballs (of course corresponding with your wedding colors) and perhaps add an elegant satin ribbon. The paper lover in me is also picturing personalized labels to continue the gumball invitation theme. Groups of these centerpieces in varied heights and sizes, topped with flowers of your choice, are sure to add a touch of whimsy to your tables.

A Gumball Wedding - The Favors

2011-03-09T04:00:00.006-05:00

The first, and possibly most obvious addition to our gumball wedding are these Mini Classic Gumball Machines from Beau-coup Wedding Favors. By filling them with gumballs of your wedding colors and adding a fun little tag or sticker, these can easily be personalized for your big day. Perhaps some new items for my Etsy shop?

photo courtesy of Julia Vandenoever Photography

Or how about these unexpected mason jars filled with, you guessed it, gumballs? Simple and affordable, when filled with gumballs of your wedding colors and adorned with a fun sticker or tag, these are sure to make a bubbly impact.

A Gumball Wedding - The Invitation

2011-03-07T11:34:00.004-05:00

Introducing the newest design to hit my Etsy shop...a playful theme centered around a vintage gumball machine. Who doesn't love a good old-fashioned gumball? All the more fun when it comes from a fancy machine! This customizable invitation suite was created for the kid in all of us who's always up for a good time, all the while remaining uniquely stylish. Head over to the shop and check out the details...later this week I'll continue with more ideas to build on this theme for a funtastical gumball wedding.

A Starfish Inspired Wedding by KL Weddings

2011-03-03T16:48:00.005-05:00

inspiration board by KL Wedding Designs

Check out this beautiful inspiration board by KL Wedding Designs. Kerry contacted me to let me know our starfish invitation was not only featured, but that the board was based around the design. This board makes for a colorful and refreshing beachside wedding. Thanks Kerry!

A Classic Made Affordable

2011-02-25T11:12:00.003-05:00

Look familiar? Say hello to my old friend, the Rosazissimo by Christian Louboutin, one of my favorite pairs of shoes to date. While they are no longer available for purchase, I happened upon a wonderful, and more economical option if your feet are still longing for a bit of feathery glamour...

Tada! Add these fun shoe clips from Chloe & Maddie to a pair of red satin pumps and voila, your very own version of the Rosazissimo for a fraction of the price (depending on how much your pretty pumps set you back). Available in a variety of colors, I can't wait to add these to some of my shoes!

Happy Friday to our feet!

If I Were a Princess...

2011-02-23T04:00:00.000-05:00

photo courtesy of Erin Hearts Court Photography via Style Me Pretty

...I would wear this dress. I found this beauty courtesy of Style Me Pretty and oh what a joy! It's from Oscar de la Renta's Spring 2010 collection. And I absolutely adore the matching bolero! Not to mention the phenomenal photography...great pictures, fabulous dress and wonderful wedding all around.

That's a Wrap

2011-02-21T12:01:00.003-05:00

I am a huge fan of these lovely bouquet wraps from MiaVonMinksWedding on Etsy. What a great way to add a unique piece of glamour to your bouquet. I especially love the Beaded Tulle Wrap. It seems so subtle yet makes a statement nonetheless. Check out Mia's other bridal accessories as well - loving all the feathers!

Music To The Eyes

2011-02-16T11:55:00.008-05:00

Another Etsy feature, but I just couldn't help myself when I saw these beautiful vintage paper rose place settings from Vintage Twee. These would be perfect for a music-inspired wedding or party, used as seating cards or even as favors or favor decorations. I could see these adorning the tops of candy boxes, perhaps chocolate candies?

Just Hanging Around

2011-02-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

I've seen these in various wedding pictures before and finally found the source to share. These beautifully crafted hangers are handmade by LilaFrances on Etsy. A unique way to add another personal touch to your day and another excuse to show off that dress even more. And as an added bonus, 10% of all profits are donated to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund in honor of her mother. A great product and a great cause. I'm so glad I found the original designer to share with you - enjoy!

Bridesmaids in Bloom

2011-02-11T09:22:00.012-05:00

I'm always on the lookout for a bargain, especially bargains for the budget-minded, yet fashionable, bridesmaid. Check out this adorable dress from ModCloth, perfect for an amethyst-infused outdoor wedding. Your bridesmaids are sure to look garden-chic, yet still love you for not emptying their pocketbooks.

Yes, I'm Still Here

2011-02-08T11:15:00.006-05:00

{ The BEST Chocolate Cake }

Yes, I'm still here. It has been an inexplicably long time since I've contributed to this blog, and for that I apologize. Since my last post, a lot of very exciting things have happened both with the boutique and in my personal life. I won't bore you with a laundry list of every event, but let's just say I am ready to get back to the basics and concentrate on why I started this venture into the world of weddings and stationery. So, thank you for your patience and let's share some chocolate!

If you're looking for THE BEST chocolate cake, look no further! I myself have tested this recipe and it is in fact THE BEST. The icing is phenomenal as well - perfect for a shower, party, or to simply satisfy a craving. Thanks Kevin & Amanda.

Anderson Center Bridal Show

2009-08-03T19:57:00.004-04:00

I just want to thank everyone who came out to visit me as the Chocolate Paper Boutique made its local debut at the Anderson Center Bridal Show. I met a lot of new friends and can't wait to work on some new and exciting invitation designs. Below are some pictures of our table display. Now onto getting that website updated...

I'm In Love With A Shoe

2009-06-18T09:18:00.003-04:00

Christian Louboutin has done it again...these jeweled beauties came my way courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman. What better way to start off the day than by colorful inspiration from one of the shoe world greats! Not only am I already picturing these puppies on my feet, I'm also picturing a joyful wedding celebration featuring a vibrant color scheme inspired by those shoes. Oh the possibilities!

Burnout Bridesmaids

2009-04-03T07:00:00.001-04:00

While shopping around for some dresses online, I found this beautiful JS Collections Floral Burnout Dress at Dillards.com. Picture your bridesmaids all wearing this black and ivory satin gown while carrying bouquets of fresh cut flowers down the aisle. A nice change from the traditional bridesmaid dresses.

Boutwell Studio

2009-03-10T07:00:00.001-04:00

Every once in a while I'll run across a photographer who reminds me just how much I love the art of photography...I was overwhelmed when I discovered Boutwell Studios and Chenin Boutwell's breathtaking wedding photography. Take some time to check out her site and wonderful blog. Here are just a few of my favorite images from Boutwell:

Ice Ice Baby

2009-03-03T07:00:00.004-05:00

Recently, a friend of mine who is getting married was talking about alternative colors for her wedding dress. Lucky for her there are plenty of options other than white, including these exquisite designs in ice silver from Romona Keveza. Simply stunning! More colorful wedding gowns to come...

Everything's Coming Up Roses

2009-03-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

I've been wanting to share this wonderful DIY project I saw on Martha for a while now as these paper roses are just too much fun. Templates and instructions are provided at Martha Stewart.com. Imagine a whimsical wedding celebration with these lovelies used as centerpieces down some long guest tables. And if you don't feel ambitious enough to do it yourself, you can order them through Amble Through Bramble, the creator of these fanciful fleurs. There are even barrettes and broaches to match!

Feeling Flat

2009-02-26T07:00:00.005-05:00

I've recently found myself in need of shoes with a low to non-existent heel, so I've been on the lookout for flats that wow me as much as my beloved peep-toes, platforms and pumps. I have to say that what I've found has left a lot to be desired. However, I did stumble upon these fashionable flats available in a rainbow of colors (possibly for a rainbow of bridesmaids?) on endless.com, along with a glimmer of hope that there may be other attractive flats out there. My search continues...

Flowers In Her Hair

2009-02-25T07:00:00.004-05:00

One of my favorite details from my very own wedding was the flower from muscari that I wore in my hair for the reception. I'm pleased to pass along the word that their new site is now up and running. So check it out - you can customize the colorful carolina with a choice of 18 beautiful colors and find a matching ring cushion for your ring bearer.

Wedding Style at the Oscars

2009-02-24T07:00:00.002-05:00

While I may be a bit late in posting this, I still wanted to share these Oscar fashions from Sunday night's show that could also double as wedding day attire for the fashionable bride.

Taraji P. Henson wearing Roberto Cavalli
Love the asymmetrical layers, and check out the red clutch!
photo by Jeff Vespa/Wireimage.com

Penelope Cruz wearing vintage Balmain
A perfect example of why we love vintage!
photo by Steve Granitz/Wireimage.com

Evan Rachel Wood wearing Elie Saab
Simply stunning!
photo by Steve Granitz/WireImage.com

Marisa Tomei wearing Versace Atelier
*Daily Dose's BEST DRESSED Winner
Love the color, love the neckline, love the layering - love it!
photo by Steve Granitz/WireImage.com

Check out more Oscar fashion at Yahoo.com.

Flipping Out Over Flip Flops

2009-02-19T07:00:00.003-05:00

Check out these colorful flip flops I found at OldNavy.com. With an array of different colors available, these would be great gifts for bridesmaids or even for guests at a reception. Fun, comfortable and stylish, at a great price (only $2.50 each if you buy 2 or more), I may just stock up on some myself for those lazy days on the beach!

Guest Book Quilt

2009-02-18T07:00:00.005-05:00

I'm a huge fan of Martha, so I'm sure this won't be the last post about an inspiring project from the wedding guru herself. I'm also a huge fan of unique guest books that aren't really "books" after all. So imagine my excitement when I ran onto this fantastic idea of a guest book quilt on MarthaStewart.com. Martha's assistant Liesl was recently married and there are all sorts of inspirations that can be found from her extraordinary wedding, which of course is featured on MarthaStewart.com. I would expect nothing less from someone who is around Martha 60-80 hours a week! What a wonderful keepsake (and possible heirloom for later generations) that can be cherished for many many years to come.

Sneak Peak

2009-02-17T07:00:00.006-05:00

Shhh...don't tell anyone, but here's a sneak peak into a wedding invitation set I'm designing for a good friend. Since the wedding's not until this summer and I don't want to spoil the surprise for the guests, I can only give you a tease. The bride wanted something simple and elegant with an understated monogram. Look for the entire set once the invites have been sent out this spring!

This Little Birdie

2009-02-16T07:00:00.004-05:00

I'm not usually a fan of cake toppers, however I can't resist loving this adorable little pair of lovebirds from Etsy seller RedLightStudio. Not only would these be darling atop a fanciful cake, they are also a great keepsake by which to remember your special day. And these little guys are completely handmade and hand painted. What a special way to add another personal touch to your wedding. Be sure to check out the entire shop for even more handmade goodness.

Hello Lover!

2009-02-13T07:00:00.004-05:00

In the spirit of Valentines Day and cherishing the ones we love, I chose this Valentine's eve to celebrate another close love of mine: shoes. To be specific, Christian Louboutin. And he's done it again, with this breathtaking pair of mirrored platform pumps coming this spring to Neiman Marcus. If this isn't motivation to work hard and save up a couple grand, I don't know what is. :)

Have a Happy and Chocolatey Valentine's Day!

6-Ways to an Easier Life!

2009-02-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

That's right - and it all comes in one little gadget. I received this little doodad for Christmas and I can say hands-down that it is one of the best gifts I've ever gotten! Besides the fact that it comes from one of my favorite stores, Crate and Barrel, it has come in quite handy at times when the hubby's not at home and the Coke bottle has turned against me. Not only does it open those stubborn bottle tops, it can open any jar, any pop can, any bottle cap, those stubborn safety seals that cover my peanut butter jars, and even makes opening snack bags a snap! I highly recommend this as a gift to anyone, especially yourself!

Paris in Puce

2009-02-11T07:00:00.001-05:00

Anyone remember that movie (Dance til Dawn) from 1988 with an overabundance of then teen stars such as Christina Applegate and Alyssa Milano, Tempestt Bledsoe and Tracy Gold, to name a few? It's also one of the first times I remember seeing Matthew Perry in anything. Anyway, it's about prom night at Hoover High, with a prom theme of "Paris in Puce." So why the flashback in time? I was in the grocery store the other day and heard the checkout girls talking about looking for their prom dresses, and all I could think about was Patrice's (Applegate's) dress, which perfectly matched the "Paris in Puce" prom theme she designed. I highly suggest watching that movie, if you haven't already, just for kicks! It's highly entertaining. So I decided to peruse some prom dresses that are out there today and found a couple from Jovani that I might actually wear, if I was going to prom again. They're definitely much better than the big poofy yellow dress I wore to my senior prom. Enjoy!

When life gives you lemon trees...

2009-02-10T07:00:00.003-05:00

I've been busy working on the boutique and wanted to share this fun little design I came up with for the shop. I must be craving citrus because this bold, graphic tree reminds me of a lemon tree - hence, the name of this invitation set: "The Lemontree." The colors are of course customizable to match any wedding color scheme and this design will look great printed with either one or two colors! Just imagine an "orangetree" or an "appletree" or even a "grapetree" (?).
This is just a taste of things to come, but if you like this design or want something completely original to your wedding, simply stop by the boutique and throw me a line! Now off to Penn Station for some of their fantastic freshly squeezed lemonade.

Motorcycle Chic

2009-02-06T07:00:00.003-05:00

In continuing with the Glam Rocker theme from yesterday, I found this little ditty at VictoriasSecret.com...definitely a must for this rocker's repertoire. Now all I need is my Harley and I'll be set!

For Those About to Rock!

2009-02-05T07:00:00.006-05:00

According to Bergdorf Goodman, and lucky for those of use with a little rock running through our veins, one of the new spring trends is "Glam Rocker." So here's some inspiration from just a few of their great items in this collection. I would totally wear that hot pink Doo.Ri Pleated Tank Dress to a spring wedding, along with the gorgeous Kenneth Jay Lane Leaf Hinge Cuff. And how about those Ralph Lauren Gold Linen Clarissa Pants? Love the wide leg! And last but certainly not least are the fabulous Jimmy Choo Tie Dye Patent Slingbacks - those are definitely a must in any rocker's wardrobe!

Not-so Mellow Yellow

2009-02-04T07:00:00.003-05:00

Is yellow one of the main colors in your wedding? How cute would this bracelet from J.Crew be as a gift for your bridesmaids?! It also comes in "natural" white, in case the bride wants to join in on the fun too.

Here a Poppy, There a Poppy

2009-02-03T09:43:00.000-05:00

As promised, here are some more items from my very own wedding/poppy collection. Included are lollipop labels, favor tags, a thank you card and photo upload instruction cards with a "mod poppy" twist. More pictures to come - enjoy!

Happy Groundhog Day

2009-02-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Groundhog Day everyone!

This groundhog is busy working on the shop, but I'll be back in touch soon with more goodies. Here's hoping our buddy Phil doesn't see his shadow today.

Poppies will make them sleep...well, we hope not!

2009-01-29T10:00:00.000-05:00

My first wedding invitation design was of course for my own recent wedding. We chose poppies as our theme for their bold, graphic, yet classy look. So I elected the help of my friend and local artist Robin Ewers to create an original drawing of poppies for our invitations. Her artwork was breathtaking and I was able to create a nice clean, bold look using some of Photoshop and Illustrator skills. So without further ado, I give you our poppy invitations...

The invitation set included a reply postcard, satin ribbon band with poppy seal and matching address labels. The main invitation card, about us card, directions and reply postcard were held into the folder using black photo corners. I also lined the envelopes with a poppy pattern...pictures of the actual finished product to come.

Matching favor tags and more to come from this poppy design...

Come and knock on our door...

2009-01-28T10:00:00.000-05:00

The Chocolate Paper Boutique is currently under construction. But that doesn't mean we're not open for business! So check out our temporary store front and contact me for all your invitation needs.

Where's my milk?

2009-01-27T14:49:00.000-05:00

Welcome to your Daily Dose of Chocolate.
If you find yourself asking what you're doing here and where's all the chocolate, don't worry, I'll explain...my name is Mary, I am a designer and yes, I love chocolate. But we're not here to discuss the difference between Dove and Hershey's - no, here I'd like to simply share my daily thoughts, inspirations, and any other finds I just can't keep to myself.

So why "chocolate?" I am in the process of starting my own invitation business - Chocolate Paper Boutique. I chose that name as I want to create designs that look so good you'll want to eat them. And what's my favorite thing to eat? You guessed it - chocolate. So grab your favorite chocolaty indulgence, pour yourself a tall glass of milk, and let's have some fun!