Manzanita Speaks

Can I get a what-what from my Cal Poly Larchie comrades on how KILLER it would be to have one of these in studio? Or maybe several of them...hmmmmm.....

via 2moderm via fatboy

As summer is waning, I have been reflecting on all the wisdom it has imparted to me.

Wait, HUH? Summer on the Central Coast? Over? We have at LEAST 6 more weeks (sorry Bendies) of perfectly good flipflop weather. And just kidding on the reflecting on wise things the summer has imparted to me, that sounds SO esoteric.

But here are some silly things I have learned over summer:

Summer School: Summer and school are two words that should not ever be joined together. Going to school during summer equals the least summer-like experience you will ever have. Kind of like my 8 weeks spent taking Cal Poly summer school classes.

Speaking of which
Getting an A in a class does not render you an expert on that topic: This lesson I recently learned during the Beijing Summer Games – they happened to coincide with my East Asian history class, where I learned all about the majesty of Chinese dynasties, the accomplishments of their culture, etc. Well, I tried to pass myself off on as an expert on the subject to a close (but anonymous) family member as we watched the Olympics; he didn’t buy it. I don’t know why I thought he would buy it. After all, he wasn’t born yesterday.

Running: Running 3-4 days a week is not an efficient way to lose weight if you don’t pair it with ceasing to sneak chocolate chips, fruit snacks, and cookies from the pantry. DARN. Looks like I need to actually EAT healthy, too.

Lettuce: Growing lettuce will make you feel like you’re in an elite club without paying dues. You literally plant it, water it, and like three minutes later you can make a salad out of it. Ok, the results aren’t really that fast, but they take next to no care and there’s no better feeling than saying to yourself “I feel like salad for lunch”, then going out to pick some from your own backyard.

Naps: Naps – no matter how fun or fulfilling – should not be considered a hobby or leisure sport. In the past few weeks, I think I’ve taken something like 10 naps. Great at the time, but then when evening falls…needless to say, I’ve been up til 4am desperately trying to sleep a few times. My sleep schedule is still out of whack!

So...what have you learned?

A lovely bride, Emily, approached me a few weeks ago regarding her upcoming October wedding. All of her ideas were off the hook. She's getting married at The Cliffs Resort, and wanted to use sea elements for the centerpieces - white coral, sea glass, shells, etc. But this is not going be just ANY OLD beach wedding - she wanted something funky, unique, bright, different.

After our consultation, I was so inspired, I just couldn't help but make an inspiration board for her. Here it is - I dubbed her concept "Sea Candy". Consider it a little sneak peek of what her wedding will be like next month :)

Eggplant callas, Annabelle hydrangea, violet lisianthus and stock...mmmmm.

Alyssah and her staff @ Save the Date Coordination did a fabulous job putting together the event, which was at a lovely private residence just north of Avila Beach.

Erika and Mikael, the Bride and Groom, are such a unique, creative couple. Not only did Erika MAKE her own dress (which I didn't get to see but heard was beautiful), but she also made the wedding chuppah!