The quiet time (sort of).

I've been working a bit more slowly these days, enjoy the slanting, golden light of fall and trying to take a few deep breaths! I still have a few 2012 dresses to finish, but I'm also starting to think about next year's collection. I started by making a scrapbook of everything that's caught my eye over the last season. There are many messy photo files stashed every which way on my computer (all uncredited*). Here's what I've been thinking about...

*All apologies to the Image Attribution League of Justice. If one of these photos belongs to you and you'd like it taken down, just say the word.

A Keepsake wedding by the sea.

Although I'm not quite ready to bid adieu to summer, Jenn's wedding at the Sea Cider Farm and Cider House has me yearning for hot autumn drinks and bracing sea breezes. The lovely bride wore Keepsake.

Photos: Jesse Holland

Done!

2012 photo shoot yesterday. Here I am (looking characteristically disheveled) with my amazing photographer Lisa and our stunning model, Meredith (styled by the incredible Amy). Thanks to everyone involved...can't wait to show off the new dresses!

Fortress of Love.

Photos: Kyle Thomas

Never underestimate the power of a dramatic location! Danika and Drex were married at Fort Gibraltar on what looks like the most perfect day of the year. Best wishes, you two (the bride wore Oysters & Pearls).

Studio tour on Brooklyn Bride.

Photos: Lisa Warninger

View more photos and the interview here.

How cute is she?

The lovely Melissa just forwarded me photos of her wedding. Her dress was a custom ensemble--a fitted top and a high waisted skirt with curved yoke and an extremely fun circle skirt in textured silk organza. Melissa is a designer in her own right, so this project was a true collaboration.

The happy couple...

...rocking it...

...and one more for the road. Look at the sassy way she cocks her hip. She just knows she looks good. Best wishes for a beautiful future, Melissa and Jesse.

Behind the music.

I spent yesterday (one of the last sunny days of the season, I fear) shooting our first-ever English Dept. bridal fashion editorial. Magical (secret!) location, glorious golden light, and a top-notch team--everything came together so beautifully. Many thanks to Brandon, Rebecca, Amy and Thalia (our fearless model)! Can't wait to show the photos...

Emily in Oysters & Pearls.

Photos: Kim + Phil Photography

Love these gauzy, dreamy photos of Emily and John's wedding at Garden Vineyards.

Oysters & Pearls, SoCal style.

Photo: Matthew Morgan

I was thrilled to see Jenna's wedding over on Style Me Pretty. Such incredible photos--and what a lovely bride, yes? Thanks, Jenna!

Now hiring.

 Photo: Cecil Beaton, 1948.

Part Time Retail Sales...plus a whole lot more.

The English Dept. is a bustling little shop with a special mission. We focus on non-traditional bridal, bridesmaid and special occasion dresses in an intimate boutique setting. We pride ourselves on providing excellent service in a relaxed environment. This is decidedly not a stuffy bridal salon. Our ideal English Dept. employee has experience, energy and enthusiasm, a cheerful and patient disposition, a ready grasp of details, the ability to learn quickly and independently, and the ability to assist a diverse community of customers with their shopping experience. It's a special opportunity for the right person...could it be you? If you are in the Portland area and think you might like to work with us, please let us know! Forward a resume to info@theenglishdept.com, including your desired hours and availability.

SEPTEMBER SAMPLE SALE

Through September 30th we are discounting nearly all of our 2012 dress samples to make room for the 2012 styles. The deals on wedding, bridesmaid and party dresses range from the pretty sweet (10% off) to the truly great (up to 75% off). Sizes run from 2 to 12, and there are loads of lovely styles and fabrics to choose from. Sales of these dresses are on a first-come-first-served basis, and applies to samples only. If you've had your eye on a particular dress and are wondering if the sample is on sale, just call the shop. Or better yet, come have a look!

Shamelessly promoting a friend's lovely book.

Photo: Alicia Paulson

My friend Alicia Paulson is a madly creative lady who routinely awes me with her talent. She is good at everything: sewing, crafting, embroidery, baking, writing (her Posie Gets Cozy blog is a daily read for me), photography, sarcasm...I basically live for the chance to be a part of her world. So when she asked if I might model a dress for her new book, Embroidery Companion, my "Yes!" was a barely contained geeky scream. The book is gorgeous and full of heirloom embroidery projects designed by the artist herself. Check it out!