Wear It Wednesday: Gold and Green

Gold and green (emerald green to be exact) is one of my favorite color pairings because the coupling of the two displays refined elegance. The deep, rich beauty of emerald green naturally establishes a strong base upon which elements of gold add new dimension and seamless enhancement. In the outfit below I simply paired an emerald green dress with a gold jacket and nude pumps. My clutch (a survivor-made good handmade in India purchased through TO THE MARKET, read all about the social enterprise here) tied my outfit together by way of pattern (chevron stripes) and color (gold and green) making a statement that was in-tune with the outfit’s melody—refined elegance.

Dress: J. Crew

Jacket: 1.State

Shoes: Steve Madden

Clutch: TO THE MARKET | Survivor-made Goods

Motivation Monday

Jewel Box Wedding: Brittany & Anthony Kennada

Meet the Bride

Name: Brittany Dawn Brannon

The Future: Mrs. Kennada

Age: 25

Dated Her Man: 1 year 5 months

Engaged: 7 months

Ring Cut: Radiant Round

Brittany is an ambitious and talented young woman who lives life to the fullest. The shining moments in her bedazzled life include being Miss Arizona USA 2011, starting her own company that produces TV Hosting videos for fashion and tech companies, traveling around the world and (of course) marrying her incredible husband who is a strong spiritual leader and everything she imagined in a man and beyond. Brittany is passionate about young women and their potential to be leaders in all aspects of life. Her fashion blog, fromdesktodinner.com, emphasizes her beliefs that women should be able to embrace their femininity without being considered pretentious and be able to be the boss and not be considered bossy. In addition, Brittany advocates for leading with a purpose to make the world a better place which is why she works with organizations such as Wounded Warrior Project, Sex Trafficking Rescues and is involved in mentoring high-school aged girls. There is no end to Brittany’s generous heart and her bright outlook on life coupled with her sparkling personality simply bring joy to the people she meets.

When asked, she answered:

What is the best part about planning the wedding?

I would have to say the absolute best part was sharing the incredible memories of making my dream Jewel Box wedding come true with my mom and dad. We shared so many laughs and memories between designing the invitations, tasting the cake and seeing my wedding gown come to life. Also my mom and I planned all the details of our wedding—we spent countless hours running around looking at vases, flowers, Swarovski stones, etc. This was the best part because those memories will live with me the rest of my life.

What is the worst part about planning the wedding?

Having to wait for the day to actually be here! I was so anxious to actually see all our hard work come to fruition, but I needed preparation for perfection. 

What is something you’d do different?

Honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing. I am so grateful to say that my parents made my dream wedding a reality. I just wish I had more time to dance with my Dad, Grandpa and Brother!

Advice for Brides-to-Be?

A few things I would highly recommend, that I did- and have shared with others:

1. Yes, the wedding is about YOU but it is also bringing everyone together from your life and your husband’s life under one roof to celebrate! Make sure you appreciate that and let your guests know you appreciate it.
2. If you’re not happy with something in the planning- FIX IT. We literally tweaked our custom monogram about 50 times until it was perfection. Pick vendors that are great and easy to work with but who also are there to help make your day your dream.
3. Advice we received that we did and I HIGHLY recommend is: when the ceremony finishes, and you’re walking down the aisle. When you and your new husband get to the end, turn around and look at everyone cheering for you. It makes time stop. 

What celebrity would you invite to your wedding and why?

The celebrities to me are the people who have made a difference in my life. I invited all my friends, family, and those who have had an influence on me and journey thus far. I am so glad I had the chance to have had all my celebrities there.

The Celebration

Brittany and Anthony met on a blind date. Set up by a mutual friend, the two had an evening that beat the odds of a blind date gone wrong and left a lasting impression of a blind date gone very right. After almost one year and a half of dating, Anthony planned a dreamy vineyard proposal in Napa Valley, CA and shortly thereafter, the two were standing at the altar.

Brittany and Anthony wed on March 22, 2014—a beautiful spring day with promise of a wonderful new season in life. Friends and family from across the country gathered at the Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort in Phoenix, to witness the couple’s union and celebrate true love. The outdoor ceremony took place on Squaw Peak Terrace—a stunning, spacious hexagonal shaped lawn with colorful flowerbeds and a sparking fountain set against the backdrop of The Phoenix Mountain Preserve—whose elegant natural beauty effortlessly complimented the regal wedding ambiance. Upon arrival, guests were greeted by a life-size glitter gold “B&A” initials surrounded by brilliant white flowers, they were handed a detailed wedding program which explained the symbolic meaning behind Messianic traditions integrated in the ceremony and once seated, guests were left to gaze upon a wooden cross—the centerpiece of all the décor as well as a symbolic representation of the Christian faith and centerpiece of the couple’s relationship.

Brittany’s bridal party consisted of a junior bridesmaid and nine bridesmaids who wore gold floor-length Sherri Hill dresses that gracefully flowed as they each floated down the aisle. After the traditional processional, Brittany emerged in an exquisite fit and flare gown with a deep-v sweetheart neckline connected to an off the shoulders strap and decorated with elegant crystal beading. Brittany designed the gown herself and paired it with a cathedral length veil which created a beautifully dramatic grand entrance. United with her prince at the altar, Brittany and Anthony exchanged vows, prayed under a Tallit and officially became Mr. and Mrs. Kennada.

The celebration continued indoors in the Gold Room that was completely transformed to reflect Brittany’s dream vision—the inside of a jewel box. “I wanted the guests to feel as if they were in a dream,” she said. From the draping on the ceiling to the gold sequined table cloths to the interactive ten person band, everything was designed to create an inviting atmosphere and make guests feel like they were the precious jewels in Brittany & Anthony’s jewel box. 

Aside from the ornate décor, the couple also focused on incorporating meaning into the reception with details such as embroidered napkins, hand etched wine glasses for each guest and custom take-home champagne bottles that Brittany’s parents also gave away at their wedding. The newlyweds shared a special moment dancing to I Have and I Always Will by Dave Barns and cherished every moment spent surrounded by loved ones. Happily married, Brittany and Anthony cherish the wedding memories they have and are excited about sharing a lifetime of memories to come. 

Wedding Highlights

Date of Wedding: March 22, 2014

Number of Guests: 335

Wedding Colors: Gold and White

First Dance Song: I Have and I Always Will- Dave Barns.

Honeymoon Destination: African Safari

 

Best Wishes Mr. & Mrs. Kennada

Photos by: Kimberly Jarman Photography

Blush Magazine Spring/Summer 2015

The latest issue of Blush, a wedding and lifestyle magazine, is available on newsstands and online.

Featuring articles composed by yours truly, relationship advice, bold bridal trends of 2015 and more—this magazine is a treasure box of inspiration!

Click here to order your copy today.

Happy reading!

XOXO,

Rachel Ruth

Wear It Wednesday: Watch For Men

I was recently introduced to Invaluable.com—the world’s premiere online marketplace featuring jewelry, fine arts, antiques, collectibles, and even entire estate sales—and was challenged to style a men’s outfit around a watch!

I gladly accepted and began scouring Invaluable.com for my central piece. I chose to feature the TISSOT Herrenuhr Le Locle Automatic watch because of its classic simplicity. When paired with the right outfit, a watch like this turns your look from chic to sharp. (It’s all about the details!)

Invaluable.com

Below are two examples of how the TISSOT can be worn. The first, a casual ensemble keeping it low key yet polished and the second, a dressy assortment perfect for the office, an evening event or a formal date.

Ladies: This outfit guide is perfect for gift ideas for the men in your life—whether it be a romantic interest, relative or friend—sometimes they need a little help piecing things together, so be the magically fairy that makes their look complete.

Gentlemen: Don’t underestimate the power of detail—ladies notice! A watch is one accessory that showcases your style and displays a put-together look.

Watch

INVALUABLE.COM TISSOT Herrenuhr Le Locle Automatic (just sold) SIMILAR HERE

Click Here to browse more watches for men

Casual Cutie

BROOKS BROTHERS Sport Shirt $92 BUY HERE

J.CREW MEN Bowery Slim Pant (Navy) $80 BUY HERE

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO Magnifico Loafer (Black) $540 BUY HERE

EXPRESS Reversible Belt $30 BUY HERE

Dressy & Dapper

J.CREW MEN Ludlow White-Collar Shirt $88 BUY HERE

JB BRITCHES Wool Trousers (Grey) $155 BUY HERE

COLE HAAN ‘Air Garrett’ Cap Toe Oxford $130 BUY HERE

J.CREW MEN Italian Wool Tie $70 BUY HERE

EXPRESS Reversible Belt $30 BUY HERE

Let Your Silhouette Shine: How Humanitarian And Founder/CEO of TO THE MARKET | Survivor-made Goods, Jane Mosbacher Morris, Is Empowering Women Around The World

Simple Silhouette is a space created to encourage women to seek beauty beyond what is skin deep and to better understand the fullness of their individual worth. Each person is purposefully created—gifted with tailored talents, particular passions and the ability to impact the lives of others. We all have a story to tell, we all have a scope in life and we all have a one of a kind silhouette. I’m thrilled to introduce a new writing category entitled Let Your Silhouette Shine which will highlight exemplary women who, by pursuing their passion, discovered their silhouette and inspire others to follow suit.

Name: Jane Mosbacher Morris

Title: Founder and CEO of TO THE MARKET | Survivor-made Goods

Education: B.S. in Foreign Service from Georgetown University and a MBA from Columbia Business School

Jane’s Silhouette: Humanitarian 

Jane is an outstanding young woman whose heart for improving the lives of others has made waves across the globe.

She served as the Director of Humanitarian Action for the McCain Institute for International Leadership, at which she managed the Institute’s anti-human trafficking program and currently serves on the Institute’s Human Trafficking Advisory Council. Prior to joining the Institute, she worked in the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Counterterrorism and in the Secretary’s Office of Global Women’s Issues. But Jane’s impressive resume doesn’t end there—she also worked at the Millennium Challenge Corporation, the Center for Strategic and International Studies, and has served as an investment consultant to Barbara Corcoran of ABC’s Shark Tank.

Additionally, Jane has traveled, spoke and written broadly on peace and security, regularly blogs for the Huffington Post, has received numerous professional accolades—such as being named one of the “Top 99 Under 33 Most Influential Young Professional” by The Diplomatic Courier in 2011, holds a seat on numerous Advisory Boards and is a proud mentor at the University of Kentucky’s Gatton School of Business’s Women Business Leaders.

Jane’s passion to serve others coupled with well-rounded experience led to her most recent endeavor, the launch of TO THE MARKET | Survivor-made Goods (TTM), a social enterprise focused on the promotion of goods made by and stories told by survivors of conflict, abuse and disease.

Survivor-made goods. Photo via TTM website.

I recently had the privilege of speaking with Jane and discovered that her story is greatly powered by allowing her silhouette to shine which in turn has not only impacted the lives of many, but has also brought her great joy and fulfillment over the years. Here is a snippet of our delightful conversation.

What inspired you to pursue humanitarian work?

“My faith. I’ve been blessed with many special opportunities—being born in the United States, being financially stable, being healthy, having access to a wonderful education—gifts I feel compelled to use to improve the lives of others. I believe it’s what I’m called to do and I love it! In addition, my experiences in the field have helped me to better understand what I wanted to pursue. Prayer has kept me grounded and directed my path, aiding in my discernment.”

Why launch TTM, what is your connection the causes you advocate?

“During my time at the State Department tackling the issue of women and security, I was heartbroken by how mistreated and oppressed so many women are in communities around the world. I value control and independence—therefore, to envision being in an environment where I have no control over my life is difficult. In my opinion, people aren’t given the opportunity to fully become who they were made to be in overly-controlled environments. I began studying existing efforts to empower these communities and identified some gaps, specifically around economic empowerment. I have a desire to help those most vulnerable live a protected, safe and love-filled life and for each person to know that they are valued and have intrinsic worth.”

Pictured above, survivor artisan, Masuma at work in rural Afghanistan. Click here to read her story.

What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your career?

“The opportunity to expand friendships, work alongside likeminded people who share the same passions, be part of a team and (even more importantly) be part of an effort.”

What advice do you have for young professionals who share the same social passions as you and want to make a positive difference in the world?

“Learn to walk before you run. I wouldn’t be as effective if I had tried to start TO THE MARKET straight out of college. Working under people and being exposed to different institutions has been valuable. I personally believe it’s really worthwhile to learn from others before you start your own organization because you will serve your end consumer that much more effectively if you’ve been exposed to more of what works and what doesn’t. Creating a non-profit or a business IS NOT about you (the founder)—it’s about serving your end-customer, whether that customer is paying or not. Hone skill sets that will improve your effectiveness—passion is important but it’s not a substitute for well thought out action.”

 

Jane’s bold pursuit of her love for humanitarian work has paved a successful path to leadership and has enriched her life’s journey. How will you use your passions to bring about positive change in your family, in your friend group, in your community, in this world? What story is your life telling? What is YOUR silhouette?

Join the conversation and share with us using #mysilhouetteis

More About TO THE MARKET| Survivor-made Goods

Launched online platform November 2014

Mission: TO THE MARKET | Survivor-made Goods (TTM) combines the powers of commerce and storytelling to empower the world’s most courageous survivor populations, in the belief that resilience is more powerful than suffering. 

Ways to Get Involved to Support TTM

• Buy products!
• Follow TTM on social media. Take the lead and help spread the word about serious issues by being a social network advocate.
• Intern or volunteer
• Host a pop-up shop
• TTM offers custom products to support survivor works through business, church organization and conference partnerships. Connect with TTM for events and corporate gifting opportunities.

Simple Silhouette Top Picks: TTM Goods

Versailles Necklace $43 BUY HERE

Button Clutch - Emerald/Gold Broken Chevron $29 BUY HERE

Alanis Earrings $18 BUY HERE

Tribal Printed Scarf - Turquoise Mix $24 BUY HERE

Click here to shop more survivor-made goods! Use promo code LOVE for 10% off until Feb. 6th

Click here to read about weaving hope in East Africa