derby days

The Kentucky Derby is right around the corner and I couldn't be more excited! Whilst work calls and I won't able to attend, I'll still be donning a sundress, a big hat and sipping all the julep glory at some fabulous parties.

Here's an inspiration board I created just for the event. Take a peek back at our Southern Derby Soiree we created for a birthday party a few years back. Not in the mood yet? Stay tuned tomorrow for a party around Richmond that will surely get you in Derby mood!

{top row: Meghan McSweeney Photography, invitation via Red Stamp, mint juleps via Southern Living, cuff links via Wedding Dress Blog, bride and groom via todd pellowe weddings, bridesmaids and bouquets via weddingbee, horse via Meghan McSweeney Photography}

cheers to july

The 4th of July is one of my favorites. It oozes of vibrant summer cocktails, gorgeous finger foods, and amazing fun. Here are some festive and inspiring images:

{pretzel sticks, mini cheescakes, chip cones, table setting, ice cream cones, berry shakes via Martha Stewart; blue shoes via Towner Jones Photography; dress via flickr; pinwheels via Martha Stewart}

whites + ivories

In honor of this frigid cold weather and the possible snow fall tomorrow in Richmond, here is a wintry inspiration board filled with whites, creams and ivories.

{escort cards via bridal inquirer, heels via the knot, pom pom display via martha stewart, dessert bar via project wedding, wedding in the snow via green wedding shoes, knit dress via nibs blog, bouquet via martha stewart, table setting via country living, potted flowers via martha stewart, cake via real simple}

Silver + Cranberry

When planning or designing an event I start with one particular item that has given me inspiration. For this cranberry and silver holiday inspiration board, my design palette came from a white cosmopolitan cocktail I recently had at a local Richmond restaurant. It came in a frosty martini glass with soaked cranberries. The lights in the restaurant made the cocktail almost sparkle. Herein, the inspiration for my holiday party was born.

Once I have the item of influence, I design an inspiration board. Tada! The perfect blend of silvery metallics and deep, bold burgundy. This palette can be used everywhere from a gorgeous winter wedding or elegant cocktail party!

{From top to bottom: gift wrap via Confetti, silver mirror via Country Living, pomander balls via Wedding Bee, cocktail via Lazy Bride, calla lily via Country Living, cranberries via Wellsphere, napkin pyramid via Country Living, ornaments via Country Living, bouquet via Fleurs, stationery via Invitesite}

Birthday Inspiration Board

So I apologize for the two week hiatus. My brother came down with the flu and despite his attempts to persuade me that "love from his big sis" would cure his illness, I did NOT indulge this love theory. (And yes, he got better on his own.)

So through the family flu, a move, family in town and thanksgiving...Dulcet & Dapper is back in action.

In honor of my 25th birthday (ugh!) here is an adorable tangerine and aqua birthday party inspiration board from Tiny Talk. In all the gloomy rain today, this should brighten a day or two!

Vibrant Vintage Birthday Party Invitations, Candle Centerpieces, Orange Flowers,
Tissue Paper Flower Pom Poms from Martha Stewart, Tablescape, Blue Utensils,
Izze Drinks, Orange Centerpiece, Blue Fin Cocktail, Citrus Desserts, Appetizers