Playground Magazine - The Dying Thank-You Note

The 2u Collection just loves Playground Magazine! As fellow local entrepreneurs and independent business owners, we would like to show this fabulously fresh publication a little support and appreciation. Flipping through the pages of their latest issue, we ran across an article that hit close to home as Playground Magazine featured the importance of the Hand-Written Thank-You Note. Our stationary division more than agrees that this is a dwindling art that must NOT be lost. Sure, a card and a signature will cover the obligation, but there is something to be said about the increased gratitude that is exuded with a personalized touch.

CHECK OUT THE FALL ISSUE OF PLAYGROUND MAGAZINE to see their take & get some inspiration on expressing your own thanks! 

Color Inspiration - The Glory of Gold... on Gold

Luxurious and Bold Gold is a sure fire way to add a little Swank to your wedding!  Both romantic and sophisticated... this color adds elegance and tradition.  It's one of those colors that can make a bold statement, acting as your complete design base, or can add a dash of class as just the accent color. Using Gold in your event will envelope your guests with warmth and luxury!

Images courtesy of Detail Wedding Dress Blog, Venue Safari, Macys.com, The Ritzy Bee Blog, Martha Stewart Weddings, Imoni Events LLC, Wedding Nouveau

Inspiration Series - Ronnie Renaud @ RW Chocolate Fountains

I am often asked how I fight through creative block and what inspires me. So, here is an installment of my Inspiration Series. 

I've found that sometimes to break out of a NON-creative funk, it's best I go look at some work of other artists I admire. Being a traditional artist as well, It's fun for me to see what other artists use as their outlet, although I paint, and sketch my primary outlet for my art is through graphics, type and paper.  Sometimes to see how other creative minds put out their ideas, and the creations they create will jostle my own creative juices. All photography images courtesy of RW Chocolate Fountain Rentals.

Featured in this installment is the oh-so-sweetly talented Ronnie Renaud of RW Chocolate.

At The 2u Collection we have been fortunate enough to indulge (inspiration enough) in the simply fantastic creations of this master confectioner & chocolatier extraordinaire. We like to consider ourselves "official" taste-testers, and let me tell you there is nothing to complain about! The only challenge? Putting these delectable dessert treats down! Solution?... We simply refrain from having scales in our creative space..... *wink*

Ronnie sets RW Chocolate apart from other industry professionals with her strong consideration for not only taste but the overall event aesthetic as well. It's not just chocolate flowing down a fountain, it's an adorned focal piece that fits. Truffles and cakes  are carefully arranged to compliment and enhance. You just haven't experienced sinful indulgence, until your lips are glitzed with glitter from her infamous Disco Balls. I'd have to say it's the fun and whimsy of it all that inspires me most. She also does amazing chocolate molds. You can see in the picture below! I had her make these for my best friends baby shower and they were a huge hit!!

I hope that you are lucky enough to enjoy not only these images, but her edible artistry as well.  May her work inspire you to 
break free!

Paper Trends for 2012-2013

Don't make the mistake of confusing a fabulous trend for a fleeting Fad!  Here at The 2u Collection we are thrilled when we discover trending design touches that remain timeless even in their popularity.... Take a look at some of our recent favorites!

Delighted with Doilies!

We love this concept because it is classic yet versatile.  Use a traditional doily for a quaint finish to stationery bundles, invitation boxes and favors or translate the inspiration into lace cut envelopes, scalloped edging and accents.

Image Courtesy Of Etsy.com

Image Courtesy Of TheSweetestOccasion.com

Image Courtesy Of OnToBaby.com

Image Courtesy Of TheLane.com

Glimmering with Glitter!

A little sparkle will catch the light and dazzle the eye.... we are starting to wonder what it is we can't cover in glitz!  From confetti, to lettering and even glassware this touch is sure to twinkle.

Image Courtesy Of Etsy.com

Image Courtesy Of 2Bsquared.com

Image Courtesy of Wedding101.net

Embossed Embellishments & Monogram Madness!

It's your day and everyone should know it!!  Be bold with monograms that make a spotlight statement!  Keep them clean or add some flare with embossed embellishments.

Image Courtesy of Etsy.com

Image Courtesy of Etsy.com

Image Courtesy of AdvantageBridal.com

Image Courtesy of Jacqueline Events & Design

Paper to Petals

Watch paper transform into the unexpected..... Globes, bouquets, table settings and garland galore!

Image Courtesy of Etsy.com

Image Courtesy of Outstanding-Occasions.com

Image Courtesy of Outstanding-Occasions.com

Image Courtesy of Ellinee.com

A good trend... fabulous!  We get even more excited when we can combine a few into a complete look!  Remember, that just because something is trending, that doesn't mean we can't refine and restyle it into a unique and custom piece!  

Keep and eye out to see what we at The 2u Collection have created with a bit of trend worthy inspiration...