Meet the Maker: The Artistic Journey of Kate Morris
Welcome to our latest blog post, where we delve into the stories of the artisan who breathes life into The Lesser Bear's cherished offerings. Today, we're thrilled to introduce you to Kate Morris, the creator behind our naturally dyed silk ribbons, whose journey from jewelry design to the heart of nature embodies creativity, passion, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability.
From Sparkle to Silk: The Evolution of an Artist
Kate's artistic journey began in the vibrant world of jewelry design, where she honed her craft and specialized in creating personality-based tiaras. Her keen eye for design and love for personal expression earned her a degree in Jewelry Design, laying the foundation for a diverse career in the arts.
Furthering her expertise, Kate pursued a Master's Degree in Fine and Decorative Arts, immersing herself in the history and intricacies of artistic expression across cultures and centuries. Her passion for art and history propelled her to the prestigious Sotheby's Jewelry Department in London. Here, amidst some of the world's most important and impressive jewels, Kate found joy and inspiration.
A Return to Roots: The Transition to Textiles
Kate's artistic path took a turn towards the tactile and timeless art of quilting, upon her return to the U.S. Dissatisfied with the soulless nature of mass-produced fabrics, she embarked on a journey into the realm of natural dyeing. This exploration was not just about color; it was a quest for authenticity, sustainability, and a deeper connection with the environment.
The Birth of a Farm: Cultivating Color and Life
Over a decade of dedication to natural dyeing led Kate to a significant life change: owning a farm. This farm is not merely a piece of land but a living canvas where native plants, dye flowers, and produce thrive under her nurturing hand. More than a dyer, Kate has become a steward of the land, working tirelessly to restore the farm and forest, teaching students to garden, and fostering an understanding and love for nature.
The Lesser Bear: Weaving Nature into Every Ribbon
Today, Kate's work with The Lesser Bear is a testament to her journey. Each naturally dyed silk ribbon is a piece of art, imbued with the essence of the farm and the meticulous care of its maker. From the gentle hues to vibrant shades captured in our wedding ribbons, every piece tells a story of passion, sustainability, and the beauty of the natural world.
An Invitation to Connect
We invite you to explore the world of Kate Morris and The Lesser Bear. Our naturally dyed silk ribbons are not just accessories; they are connections to the earth, to art, and to the story of a maker who believes in the power of beauty and sustainability. For future buyers, enthusiasts, and fellow artisans, Kate's work offers an inspiring example of how creativity can flourish when aligned with the values of environmental stewardship and love for the natural world.
Discover the magic of naturally dyed silk ribbons at The Lesser Bear, where every purchase supports our mission to celebrate art, nature, and the stories that weave us together.
Spring time is the perfect time for soft and neutral colors in ribbons, dresses and florals.
This month I made some limited edition eco print ribbons three shades. You can find and purchase them here.
This spring shoot was featured on Style Me Pretty:
They say fairy tales are fantasies that don’t exist, but only after you’ve seen these images will you believe in those dreamy stories! If we had to describe this one-of-a-kind shoot at Sunstone Villa in three words, we’d choose romantic, effortless, and intentional. Weddings by Susan Dunne planned a workshop that reawakened the senses, through eye-catching elements fueled by summer colors. Emblem Floral Design Studio’s light and airy floral arrangements completely set the scene and produced an idyllic atmosphere. If these incredible moments don’t reawaken your creative soul, we truly don’t know what will. Get lost in the prettiness at the full gallery, captured by the amazing Lucy Munoz.
Vendors:
Design: Weddings by Susan Dunn Photography: Lucy Munoz | Floral Design: Emblem Floral Design Studio | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Cake: Sweet Novelette | Invitations: Epoch Design | Reception Venue: Sunstone Villa | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Shoes: Stewart Weitzman | Groom's Attire: Friar Tux | Yoga + Wellness: Balanced Bride | Rentals: Bright Event Rentals | Candles: Camilia Supply | Styling Surface: Chasing Stone | Accessories: Donni | Bridal Stylist: Hope Lavine | Linen Rental: Napa Valley Linens | Styling ceramics: Simple Things Ceramics | Wine and Olive Oil: Sunstone Winery & Villa | Ribbon: The Lesser Bear | Accessories: Vanessa Mooney | Welcome Bags: Modern Vintage Market
]]>This past week in ribbon post on Instagram:
Orchid and Lilac Silk Ribbon are now restocked in all three silk; Habotai, Silk Gauze and Crepe de Chine.
Lavender silk ribbon in all three silks is also now back in stock.
For a Friday introduction, I shared the following:
Happy Friday! I thought I would share a few things about me and The Lesser Bear, since there are lots of new faces around here lately. 1) You probably already know this, but all the colors I produce are made with plants and flowers, many grown by me or foraged in my local area. 2) TLB is a micro business. It is just me, designing, making and organizing everything (with some bookkeeping help from my husband). So if you contact TLB, it will always be me there to answer your questions, and every ribbon is dyed, ironed and spooled by me in my studio. 3) If you save your spools, you can return them to me for a spool credit on your next order 4) A portion of TLB proceeds is donated each year to a variety of causes. 5) I love creating colors, and ribbons, but I am also a trained jeweler and teach high school jewelry making as well as running TLB. (Image by @starling_studio )
Shown here are more of the restocked purple ribbons in Orchid and Dark Violet. The day that I shared this photo was also the first day that felt like spring here in my town. I was thinking of the e.e. cummings poem about spring, where the world is "Mud Lusious" and "Puddle Wonderful"
Next, I shared this flat lay from a styled shoot last year. This ribbon used here is Dancer, and you can also find a selection of decorative scissors here.
Co-Host/Planning/Design: @jeannenelillieevents
Co-Host/Photography: @starling_studio
Floral Design: @prema_designs
Paper/Calligraphy: @lupineletters
Table Runners/Ribbon: @thelesserbear
This week I also shared some of the great colors that can be created with natural dyes. Natural dyes are much safer for the environment than modern chemical textile dyes. All Lesser Bear colors are created using natural dyes, many from plants which I have grown or foraged myself.
Colors shown here are (back to front) Silver Lake, Adriatic, Blue Bell and Cove.
I couldn't help by share this beautiful spring bouquet with silk ribbon.
Photo by @alyssamattphotographyfrom a recent workshop
Host/Floral Design: @thebuddingfloristcincy
Venue: @theviewmtadams
Wedding Gowns: @lovelybridecincinnati
Jewelry: @laneandkate
HMUA: @bridefaceotr
Cake: @iconcakecincinnati
Wedding Invitation Suite: @thehoneybeecreative
Ribbon: @thelesserbear
Rentals: @queencityvignette
Bride: @lauragrace95
As you can probably tell by now, I have been hard at work restocking ribbons for the wedding season. Also restocked last week was Antique White in all three silk types.
Last, but definitely not least are these amazing save the dates made by The Idea Emporium, which include a bit of TLB ribbon.
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This last week I focused on warm whites and warn neutrals in my Instagram posts. I was inspired the the recent OVER BREAD AND COFFEE | CLEVELAND shoot by Adrienne Gerber, which was full of soft white fabrics and white dried florals, and of course the warm browns of freshly baked bread. Here is what Adrienne has to say about the shoot:
There is something sacred about sitting with a warm cup of coffee in your hands…aaand when it’s coupled with fresh bread: friggin’ MAGIC. Even the process of baking the bread and pouring the coffee demand you to exhale. Watching the cream dissolve into the coffee can bring me to tears. Is that crazy? It’s just so perfect and beautiful and meaningful somehow. I rarely drink coffee or eat alone. Like almost never. And that says something. Food gathers people together in such a fantastic way and I wanted to celebrate that with this shoot. We found a beautiful studio (Suite 226) in Cleveland and gathered all kinds of rad humans together to make it happen. The Heritage Bread Co. baked an unbelievable amount of bread, Rachel Forrer worked wonders with dried/foraged foliage, Heartwood Coffee Roasters gave us THE best coffee, The Lesser Bear provided linens to DIE FOR, A Rose Pottery’s dish wear could not have been better suited, Pyne and Smith’s linen dresses were the ideal aesthetic, Haley Ressler has make-up skillzzzz for daayyyzzzz, and the styling magician Amanda Urschitz made it all come together PERFECTLY. And, of course, our MODELS: Andre Alamina, Fatima Bah, Shannon Moore, and Bradly Day. GAH!! SUCH AN AMAZING TEAM!!!
This next image is of a few of the neutrals in my core collection of colors and includes Dancer, Champagne and Krysanthie.
Don't forget, you can now buy samples of each of these colors if you want to see them in person before purchasing your spools.
I love this bouquet by Root Design Co., which is full of soft white and champagnes, including being tied with champagne silk ribbon. Photographed by Kylie Bricker.
Below is our Fawn Silk Ribbon in 4 inch habotai silk. I love the warm brown, almost terra cotta color of this ribbon. It would go really well with fall floral bouquets. I can almost imagine it with a bouquet that included autumn leaves in the place of greenery.
This next photo was from an engagement shoot a few years ago. I love the warm spring vibe of the whole shoot. Photography by Jenny Haas, Florals by Old Slate Farm and Design/Planning by Auburn and Ivory Creative.
Our ribbon makes a create addition to the styling kits of photographers and are perfect for detail shots of wedding elements.
Couples, if you are planning your own detail shots and have used our ribbon on your bouquet or wedding invitations, be sure to keep some, or grab an extra spool to give to your photographer for these photos.
As mentioned above, I made the table linens; tablecloth, runner and napkins, for the Over Bread and Coffee shoot.
Adrienne asked for a Dancer Harem cloth runner for this shoot, which she used on the table, but which is also shown here as a prop to use with the model.
Don't forget that you can now order ribbon samples for any of the colors in my core collection.
Below are Pecan, Fawn, Cameo and Krysanthie.
Last but definitely not least, I announced that I will be taking on a limited number of quilt commissions. As you probably know, The Lesser Bear started as a quilting business, but has evolved into a more wedding based business.
With all the uncertainly in the world, and the delay or cancellation of weddings, my business has taken a hard hit. As such, I have decided to get back to my roots and make a few quilts. If you have always want one, just send me an email, kate@thelesserbear.com, and we can discuss a special project just for you.
Beautiful photo by Rachel Joy Barehl
]]>from MS Weddings:
Jessica Vitt and Joseph Razzano were both so dedicated to their studies at Ohio State University—she was a marketing major and he was preparing to be an optometrist—that they spent plenty of time in the quiet stacks at the school library. "We kept running into each other at the library first, and then realized we had mutual friends, so we started hanging out at social events," says Jessica. "We started dating in February 2010, with our very first date on Valentine's Day." Though Joe didn't propose until eight years later, he had a plan long before he popped the question: "Joe always knew in his mind that when he proposed, it would be under the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France," says Jessica, who had studied abroad in the city. "We both love to travel, and it's a city that we always dreamt of visiting together."
As they began planning their dream celebration, Jessica and Joseph wanted to incorporate the romance of their engagement; they chose a dreamy color palette of gray and pale pink, accented by wine-toned shades of burgundy and rose. They booked their venue—Magnolia Hill Farm in Columbus, Ohio—while it was still under construction, relying on the blueprints and sketches for a vision of what the finished product would look like. "We wanted a venue that was different for us as well as our guests," says Jessica; they also loved that they'd be one of the first couples to marry there, and that the locale was close to home.
Tall windows, all-white walls, exposed beams, and a concrete floor created a blank slate that the couple personalized with trailing greenery and lush blooms, gauzy silk and rich velvet, gold detailing and natural wood. But when they tied the knot on October 12, 2019, in front of 170 guests, the venue paled behind the couple's personal touches—a dinner of the groom's favorite food, a photo shoot with their dog, a maid of honor speech-turned-rap by the bride's sister, and a ceremony officiated by the groom's uncle. "It was his first wedding that he officiated and likely not his last now," says Jessica. "He made the ceremony so personal for both Joe and I, and intimate for our guests attending."
For this wedding I created the silver velvet ribbon on the bridal bouquet, which went perfectly with the variety of silver and grey bridesmaid's gowns.
I also created this fine black silk ribbon, which is perfect for wrapping boutonnieres. This black ribbon is a woven edge ribbon and as such does not have our usual frayed edge, which makes it perfect and a bit more structural for smaller floral items.
The other details that I created for this wedding are the velvet ribbon used in this detail shot and the hand spun and naturally dyed black twine used on the program designed by Auburn and Ivory Creative.
Event designers Auburn + Ivory created an invitation suite with a custom watercolor design in pink and burgundy; the set previewed the couple's color palette, while an ornate scripted font hinted at the overall style of the celebration. Dyed silk ribbon [Twine] from The Lesser Bear secured the pieces in a modern black envelope.
The neutrals and pale pinks of the couple's color palette reappeared in Jessica's "lush, romantic, garden-style bouquet," which florists from Old Slate Farm filled with cafe au lait dahlias, garden roses, blush lisianthus, butterfly ranunculus, and black scabiosa.
Sources
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In my Core Color Collection, you will find a large selection of whites, greys, silvers and blacks. All of these silk ribbons are naturally dyed by me in my small studio and are perfect for all sorts of wedding projects from wrapping an invitation to wrapping a bouquet, from tying up a vow book to wrapping a wedding present, from creating a seating chart, to decorating the couples head table chairs and so much more.
I have shared this styled shoot at Juniper Rooftop before, but I simply love this dramatic image, it feels like it is straight out of a Hollywood movie.
Below are some of my favorite bouquet photos from past shoots that took place in the late winter and early spring.
If you are going to go to the trouble of booking an engagement photo session, you are probably going to want to think about multiple locations, outfits or multiple outfits, and ways to maximize your bouquet, if you are getting one.
I love how Auburn and Ivory accessorized this spring bouquet by putting it in a lovely basket for some of the shots. It creates a new sweet look for these photos.
And if you are having a spring wedding, you can't go wrong with a palette like this of soft yellows, peaches and whites, in this arrangement by Old Slate Farm.
It looks perfect paired with an old farmhouse style table and a gauzy silk runner, by The Lesser Bear.
Last week we were looking at this amazing shoot designed by Amanda of The Bridal Theory
I will do a whole post dedicated to this shoot later, because it is definitely worth it! It is the perfect inspiration for a destination wedding in a French Chateau and included a gorgeous soft pastel color palette.
I would totally have gotten married in an Irish Castle, if that had been an option for us when we were planning our wedding!
Photography by Mary Kate Steele, Florals and Creative Design by Amanda Writesman of The Bridal Theory, DressTop Bridal Paris and Designed by Blammo Biamo, Model Morgan Newsome Photography, Venue Chateau de Bonneval Accessories Les Couronnes de Victoire and Mood and Muse Boutique
I shared info about this blush silk/wool twine, which I spun by hand, and naturally dyed. It is perfect for wrapping around wedding invitations, menus, table numbers etc., basically any wedding project that you might need to wrap.
Shown here is one of my favorites, Desert Rose Pink/Blush Velvet Table Runner. I love including velvet on a wedding table, or just the head table. There is no better way to add a touch of lush opulence to your tablescape and it is a great way to begin to layer texture on your table, or to highlight the head table.
Some of my favorite weddings have had one of my velvet runners draping down the edges of a sweetheart table or even a dessert table.
Blossom Silk Habotai Ribbon is definitely a popular pink ribbon. Blossom is a dusty pink ribbon that goes well with lots of flower choices. It adds a soft pink, but does not overpower the florals. I also love it in habotai 4 inch width, as it has a slight sheen and drapes beautifully off of a bouquet.
This super romantic wedding editorial took place at River Oaks Charleston. I love that weathered dock that extends out into the water and reeds. Also, the wedding dress by Emily Kotarski has amazing puffed cap sleeves and a dramatic plunge.
I also adore the asymmetrical bouquet by Passiflora Studios with soft whites and pinks and tiny pops of darker greenery, all tied up with a soft pink Lesser Bear ribbon. Photo by Jenny Haas.
This editorial shoot has all the soft pink romance that you could dream of. Big soft fluffy peonies and roses in a lush bouquet by Passiflora Studios tied with Krysanthie and Lily Pink Silk Ribbons.
Design by Auburn and Ivory Creative Photography by Jenny Haas and amazing pink dress with floral appliqué by Marchesa Fashion.
I am in LOVE with this look. This head table setting plays soft pinks with pops of red in the florals and in the place settings and paper goods. I also love the little surprise blues in the garden like table installation, and the combination of straight and twisted candle sticks.
For this shoot, I custom dyed a silk gauze runner directly with flower petals to create a soft texture that tied in all of the colors on the table.
Planning and Styling by Auburn and Ivory Creative, Phography Jenny Haas, Paper Goods Cheer Up Press and Florals Old Slate Farm at Green Crest Manor in Battle Creek, Michigan, a perfect location of a destination wedding.
I can't get enough of this shoot at Green Crest Manor, so I shared this second photo. How amazing is that Carol Hannah bridal gown?! It is perfect under the ivy covered arched doorway with the plunge neck deep wine colored velvet bridesmaid dress.
The bride's bouquet is loose and has that Secret Garden feel and is tied with loooong tails of Orchid Purple Silk Ribbon, while the bridesmaid bouquet is smaller and more structured with shorter tails of the same purple silk ribbon. I love this way of differentiating the bride's bouquet from her maids', as it ties them together but doesn't not detract attention from the bride.
I hope you enjoyed this roundup of the different images and wedding styles that have been on my mind over the last week and I hope to share this type of info more regularly in the future.
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Valentine's Day is quickly approaching and so I though that I would share a few pink and red inspiration photos, for a romantic Valentine's Day wedding, elopement, or just a romantic gift.
The first is from a few years ago. It was a romantic boho wedding editorial that turned into an actual elopement.
These dramatic and moody photos are by the talented Addison Jones. Loose romantic florals by Bear Root Floral. What could be more romantic that this tall grove of pines, deep moss and ferns and a simple floaty dress.
Well, maybe add some tents for a little extra flair. These tents were provided by The Campfire Experience and included a lounge tent decorated with greenery and pennant bunting.
I also love that Addison took the time to take these intimate photos of the couple in the light of the barn.
For this wedding I made custom mottled red and burgundy silk ribbon, which paired well with the colors in the bride's bouquet.
I also loved this shoot from a few years ago that featured soft pinks, lots of candles and this beautiful beaded bridal gown. I particularly love the combination of greenery, deep burgundy florals and hints of pink in the silk ribbon and just a few of the blooms. Florals by Rose Bredl. Photos by Jennifer Schaaf and Styling by Alchemy Styled for Bohindi.
This is only of my favorite looks for a Valentine's Day Wedding. Simple white dress paired with muted greenery, ivory roses and pops of brilliant red with mottled red silk ribbon. This photo was part of the Opalescent Series which is a collaboration between Bear Roots Floral and Grace E Jones.
If you are using bold colors, I love them in combination with a more muted palette, so that they are really highlighted rather than lost in other bold colors.
If you are a more pink the merrier type, this look is definitely a go to for you Valentine's Day wedding or elopement. All pink, all the time. This shoot included pink floral headband, pink dress and backdrop and multi tonal pink florals with pink silk ribbon. Photo by Adrienne Gerber and Florals by Rachel Forrer.
Not getting married this Valentine's Day, but you still want to make a romantic gesture for your loved one? You can't go wrong with a simple hand tied bouquet, like this one with white parrot tulips, lambs ear and a little pop of burgundy in the ranunculus. Then tie it all with a soft pink silk ribbon.
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Pantone describes their color of the year "Classic Blue" as, "a self assured blue hue elegant in its simplicity. Emblematic of heritage by at the same time highly contemporary."
I love this color choice and description for so many reasons. Let's start with the description. Who doesn't want themselves or their wedding to be described as: elegant, self assured, and contemporary, yet still timeless? I know that I would.
Let's imagine it for a minute. You want your wedding to be beautiful, to be a true reflection of you and your partner as you begin this journey of married life, right? You have probably thought about wedding traditions, either in general, or personal family traditions, and have probably decided which you want to make a part of your day. And lastly, you want your wedding to be a reflection of the time in which you got married. I know, we have all looked back at 80's weddings and laughed at the HUGE puffy shoulders on the dresses, but we have also looked at our grandmother's, or great-grandmother's dresses that are in true movie star style. But the special thing about these photos is that they are a peek into the time that our friends and family got married, their style and what was important to them on their day.
I love traditions. Not that I feel bound by traditions, going your own way is also wonderful too. But, I like to pick traditions and the tradition of Something Borrowed, Something Blue was one that I chose for my wedding.
According to The Knot:
It derives from the Old English rhyme, "Something Olde, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue, A Sixpence in your Shoe"—which names the four good-luck objects (plus a sixpence to bring prosperity)a bride should include somewhere in her wedding outfit or carry with her on her wedding day.
Over the years that I have been in the wedding industry, I have come across a number of ways to incorporate this tradition into weddings.
Of course, my favorite it to include blue ribbon on your bouquet. Above you can see examples of both a classic blue/navy ribbon and lighter blue ribbons on wedding bouquets. If you want to incorporate something blue in this way, definitely discuss it with your florist. They can make sure that their designs go well with your chosen ribbon color, or even help you pick a shade of blue based on the flowers that they will be using. You will also want to talk with them about tying the ribbon onto the bouquet. Things to consider are: who will tie it on and when (you want to keep your ribbon dry, so I would suggest your florist or wedding planner dry off the stems, tie on the ribbon and then hand it to you just prior to walking down the aisle), what shade is right, how you want it tied (bow, tails, wrap) and how far down you want the tails of the ribbon to drape.
Some of my other favorite traditions include tying a locket into your ribbon on the bouquet. This is such a lovely way to honor a lost loved one in your ceremony. Or as seen above, adding a handkerchief to the ribbon wrapped on your bouquet. This could double as adding something old and/or something borrowed, while the ribbon can be something new and something blue.
If you aren't up for blue ribbon on your florals, here are a few other ideas. Blue runners in a variety of fabrics can set a lovely tone for your head table. Shown here is one of my naturally dyed blue velvet runners
Blue suits are always a good idea.
Or blue ribbon for your details shots
If you are looking for even more blue inspo, check out this post on Oh The Heart.
]]>Yes! Excitingly, I now have silk ribbon samples available for sale via the website. Though I work hard to provide clear and accurate photos, I know that it can be hard to get a good feel for color and type of silk through a photo or description.
Over the years I have had a lot of requests for samples. You asked for it and so here it is! I am excited to share that I now have sample cards and sample booklets available for purchase on the website. I worked for a long time with Alaina from Cheer Up Press to create the perfect way to share samples with you, and I am so pleased with how they turned out!
The full booklet includes 24 core colors from our silk ribbon collection. While I do have other colors for sale as well, these core colors are available year round. As you know, I naturally dye all of my ribbons by hand, and as such some of my colors are only available seasonally, but these core colors, included in the booklet, can be made all year round.
I created this core color collection to give you a wide variety of colors from whites and black to pinks, blues and purples, etc. You should be able to find a color that works perfectly for your invitation, bouquet or other wedding details.
The sample booklets are perfect for wedding vendors, to plan your next project or share with your clients. Each color card includes a sample of that color in each of the three silks available: crepe de chine, habotai and silk gauze.
Yes! You can buy single samples of any of the core colors in the collection. These small cards include all three types of silk in your chosen color. For engaged couples, they are the perfect size for taking with you to vendor meetings, dress or suit fittings, etc., and will help you in making color choices.
No. While I make every effort at consistency, all my ribbons are dyed by hand in my studio using plant materials. Season, plant sources and many other factors can effect the color outcome, and colors may vary by batch. Samples should be used as a color guidance tool and not as an exact color match to spools of ribbon.
I include all three types of silk on each card because colors present differently on each type of silk. One type of silk may show the color darker than the other. Aside from the difference in colors, I include all three types of silk so that you can feel the differences. I get a lot of requests to explain the difference between the silks, and I felt that the best way to understand the difference between them is to feel them for yourself.
Incase you too were wondering the differences, this is how I explain them. Crepe de Chine silk is the thicker of the silks and has a slight suede texture to it. Habotai silk is slightly thinner and has a subtle sheen. Lastly, silk gauze is the thinnest of the silks, and it is light, airy and slightly translucent.
Sample card are available here and full sample booklets can be found here.
I am so excited about these samples and I hope that you love them too. I also hope that they are a good tool for you in the planning of your wedding or event.
As always, please do not hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions.
]]>Just take a look at this delphinium explosion! Wow, wow, wow is all I think every time I see it. This photo is by Rachel Beth at the [re]Treat Yo Self workshop. The amazing florals were done by Bear Roots Floral and the remind me of blue floral fireworks. Kirstin consistently amazes me with her bold use of colors and willingness to create surprising textures and compositions in both her bouquets and floral installations. She often uses my more exciting colors, or ribbons with interesting patterning to go with her work. So, where Kirstin asked for ribbon for this shoot, I jumped at the chance to give her extra wide blue ribbons to match the drama of this tulle dress.
I am doubly lucky to be a part of this shoot, as to our surprise, it was also a proposal! So romantic! I bet we all wish we looked this amazing at the time of our proposals! I will post more photos from this shoot soon.
Speaking of drama: I loved this photo from a real wedding, by City Seeking Studio (please excuse the quality of this image, I took a screen shot from IG, please go see the real thing). I love the dark color scheme for florals and the grooms suit, which pairs perfectly with the brides dark hair. Florals are by Old Slate Farm, with silk ribbons by TLB. Of course I love the stone wall and slate roof of Quarry Chapel as well, the site of the Pre-Raphaelite Styled Wedding Shoot that I posted about earlier.
Another venue that I can't get enough of is The Monastery Event Center. It just has all the old world charm that you would expect from a church wedding in Italy or somewhere equally romantic. I have posted about this wedding before when I wrote about using The Lesser Bear fabrics for wedding backdrops and decor. For this wedding Auburn and Ivory asked my to make naturally dyed velvet pedestal covers for the ceremony. I am so happy with how they turned out.
Photo by Megan Noll Photography Florals by Megan Brown.
Next, I want to wish Susie and Darren a Happy 1st Anniversary! Susie of Susie Marie Photography posted this photo from her own beautiful wedding. I love the clean and joyful style of this wedding with all its early summer greenery by Madison House Designs, with pops of white and our blue silk ribbon. Styling/Planning by Auburn and Ivory Creative, photo by Hope Taylor Photography. Additional Vendors: Sadie Baby Sweets, Sarah Mohre, Erica Eigensee, The Bridal Bar, NOAH's Event Venues, Daalarna Couture, The SuiseeShop Bakery, B.Loved Bridal, Stitched_Cinema.
Next, Cheer Up Press posted this preview of a wedding invitation that she has been working on. She used paper from Porridge Papers, wax seals by Artisaire and habotai silk ribbon in 1/2 inch for a wrap, by TLB. But, check out that envelope liner! I can't wait to see more photos of this invitation suite and all of its amazing details!
I love seeing those real moments! This photo from Folchie Creative, is one of those special ones, with bride Casey and her Mom sharing a quiet moment. Natalie took this photo while second shooting for Emily Mollineaux Photography You have to love this pops of coral balanced by cool greens in this bouquet by Old Slate Farm, with silk ribbon by TLB.
Last by certainly not least is this beautiful couple captured by Ashly Collins. Passiflora Studio's bouquet of soft tones and tendrils of flowers looks as if it was a small slice of a secret and magical garden.
]]>Table runners are our best selling type of table linen. I believe that this is because of the versatility of a runner. Depending on if it is ironed or crinkly, spread out or bunched up, lengthwise of horizontal across a table, you can create very different looks.
Here in this photo by Kismet Visual & Co. you can see that Auburn & Ivory Creative styled this peach velvet table runner over a simple linen table cloth and layers on soft tones with the plates, glass wear etc., and our pink shibori dyed linen napkins for a very romantic look.
In this photo by Rachel Joy Barehl, Auburn & Ivory Creative style two of our shibori dyed runners, one in crepe de chine and one in a silk/hemp blend over a lovely dark wood table and paired it with our linen shibori dyed napkins, all topped with florals by State & Arrow.
In this photo by Henry Photography, Katie from Old Slate Farm used an extra long harem cloth runner to complete her charming garden party look. I love how it blows in the breeze.
One of our longest custom orders are these cotton gauze runners, dyes a light taupe with locally foraged nuts, each over 100ft long, for this greenhouse wedding. Such a romantic and nostalgic look under the strings of lights. Photo by Rachel Joy Barehl and Design/Florals by State & Arrow.
In Rachel and Stephen's wedding, Auburn and Ivory used our dancer silk gauze table runner to accent the head table. It looked dreamy on her white washed farm tables, with lots of delicate gold accents and peaches. Photographer: Addison Jones Photography
The image that is repined the most on our Pinterest account is this head table made of a wooden industrial spool, on which State & Arrow added a taupe cotton gauze runner and simple greenery with twinkling candles in pink glass holders. Photo by Rachel Joy Barehl.
Another runner on a head table. This wedding include a combination of round and rectangular tables. On the long tables, Auburn and Ivory used runners of our silk across the short length of the tables, printed with table numbers. On the larger round tables she draped runners of silk gauze to match the head table. Photo by Abby Mortenson Photography florals by State & Arrow.
Here are few more of my favorite runner photos:
Design: Auburn and Ivory | Photography: Kylie Bricker Photography
Photography: Ashley D Photography | Florals: Old Slate Farm
Design/Planning: Auburn and Ivory | Photography: Ashley D Photography | Florals: Old Slate Farm
Photo by: Jenny Haas | Design/Planning: Auburn and Ivory | Florals: Old Slate Farm
Photography: Jenna Powers | Design/Planning: Auburn and Ivory | Florals: Old Slate Farm
I also make larger table linens that can be used a full tablecloths, though these are generally custom orders. If you would like to discuss a tablecloth commission, feel free to email me.
Photography: Jenna Powers | Design/Styling/Rentals: Something Old Dayton | Naturally Dyed Wool Gauze Tablecloth: The Lesser Bear
I also make lots of napkins. There are smaller sets of napkins available in the shop, but if you would like to discuss a larger order, such as for an event, please feel free to contact me.
Photography: Jenna Powers | Design/Styling/Rentals: Something Old Dayton | Napkins: The Lesser Bear | Menu: Vivian Kammel
Photo: Kismet Visuals | Design/Planning: Auburn and Ivory | Paper Goods: CheerUp Press
Photo: Cinzia Bruschini | Design/Planning: The Wedding Care | White Silk Napkins: The Lesser Bear
Photo: Henry Photography | Design/Planning: Auburn and Ivory | Venue: Magnolia Hill Farm | Florals: Old Slate Farm | Napkins: The Lesser Bear
]]>As I mentioned in an earlier post, I recently launched a collection of twines. I have since add to the variety of colors and types of twines offered in the shop. All of these twines would be a perfect addition to wedding invitations, menus, gifting and many more projects. The collection includes silk, silk/wool, flax and recycled silk ribbon twine.
Above at the silk twines available in the shop. These are spun from pure silk and naturally dyed, all in my studio. They have the sheen of silk and are a loose twine with slight variations in thickness throughout the spool. The silk twine comes in Blush, Silver, Steel and Ebony.
The above twine is a combination of silk and wool. This twine is finely spun and comes in Taupe, and Soft Pink.
This rustic twine is spun from dew retted flax fibers from Belgium. Dew retting is more environmentally conscious method than the typical water retting of fibers. Retting is the process of separating fiber from plant stalk.
Dew retting relies on night time dews and the rising temperatures of the day to naturally separate the stalk from the internal fiber bundles, which are then eventually spun into twine.
I am very excited about this new line of twine which I spin from excess silk ribbons that I produce in the process of creating ribbons. I have found a way to spin these excess ribbons into twine. It makes for a beautiful and unique twine with lots of character. I am also pleased that it helps me towards achieving my goal of reducing waste in my production process.
I am so excited to see how you incorporate these new twines into your designs.
]]>I was honored to be invited to participate in a photoshoot for a collaborative project between Bear Roots Floral and Grace E. Jones.
So far, they have done amazing monochrome shoots for white, yellow and green. I highly recommend that you check out the Instagram account for this project, @opalescentseries to see all of the shoots.
The shoot that I was a part of was Pink, and it was amazing! It took place at the newly restored Snowden Gray Mansion. The mansion has been lovingly restored and an amazing venue with beautiful original floors, massively high ceilings and amazing light fixtures. The shoot itself took place in the Pink Room (obviously) which was decorated in honor of the home's resident ghost.
When we arrived our beautiful model Toby Ewing was having her makeup done by Le Reve Makeup & Hair .
Next Kirstin began to construct the floral installation, which was gorgeous. She has a vision in her head, and made it look effortless as she brought the vision to life with dripping amaranth, oversized spray painted leaves and lots of pink texture.
Kirstin had requested voluminous ribbons in shades of pink, which she tied onto a large textural bouquet.
Tobi wore a dress provided by Shop Gilded Social which a floral pattern in light and dark shades of pink, which was perfect for this shoot.
For me, the best part was watching my fellow collaborators do their work. Kirstin wasn't the only one making things look effortless. Grace was amazing. She sees light and composition through the camera in a way that I can't imagine. She is calm while quietly catching magical moments.
I absolutely love the voluminous tails of ribbon in this shoot. To make this look, we used multiple shades of 6 in wide habotai silk ribbon, tied into big loose bows, which draped down.
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One of the wonderful parts of my job is that I get to work with great wedding planners and stylists. I just love to see how they use my naturally dyed ribbon, but also how they use the larger fabrics that I dye as well. I am constantly inspired by the creative ways that they use my fabrics to decorate ceremony backdrops and wedding receptions.
Here are a few of my favorites from the last few years.
Planning/Styling: Auburn and Ivory | Florals: State & Arrow | Photos: Ashley Wallace Photo | Arbor: Something Old Dayton
This arbor is one of my absolute favorites. Auburn + Ivory draped and tied this pecan brown silk gauze over the wooden arbor by Something Old Dayton, and State & Arrow created the amazing floral installation that looks like it is growing up the post. It was perfect in front of this golden field in the background.
Planning/Design: STR Events | Florals: Vessel | Venue: Franklin Park Conservatory | Photos: Simon Yao Photography | Arbor Rental: Design Designs
For drama, there is nothing better than this arbor dreamed up by StR Events and Vessel, with custom dyed mauve silk gauze. I love the big loose looping drapes and that the silk pools on the ground, all topped by this extravagant floral corner by Vessel. Also, it is so dreamy that you can see the NavStar sculpture by Stephen Canneto. Such a lovely way to honor an iconic view of Columbus.
Photo/Design and Florals: Eco Flora Design | Venue: The Barn on Enchanted Acres
The dreamy factor was in BIG effect with this ceremony backdrop design by Eco Flora Design, who used four panels of my naturally dyed silk gauze that billowed in the winder at the back of this wooden patio. It was framed with her amazing whimsical florals that look like they are organically growing out of the forest backdrop, and was surrounded by hurricanes and candles.
Planning/Design: Auburn + Ivory | Florals: Madison House Designs | Photography: Kismet Visuals & Co.
If you are a fan of the triangular ceremony arch, then this one is sure to inspire. Designed by Auburn + Ivory, and draped with custom dyed silk gauze yardage, all set off by two floral accents by Madison House Designs which are full of a mix of neutrals and pops of rich color. It couldn't be more perfect in front of this wall of greenery with with the delicate aged table with candles. There is so much to love.
I don't have a lot of ceremony shots to share, but here is one that I absolutely loved.
Planning/Design: Auburn + Ivory | Florals: Madison House Designs | Photography: Kismet Visuals & Co.
There was so much to love about Jenny and Jeremy's wedding, including this touching moment! I adored this reception/dance floor backdrop designed by Auburn + Ivory with draped silk gauze, sparkling lights and greenery by Madison House Designs. It is the perfect way to soften a venue's beams, blank walls or anything that you would like to hide, or even highlight.
Here are a few photos of how I have used drapery myself to soften table design, and could be used behind tables for desserts, presents, etc..
I would love to dye fabric for a chuppah, or a mandap or any other traditional wedding ceremony structure. It would also be amazing to create drapery for the inside of a tent, or from ceiling beams in a barn. The ways to use fabric in wedding ceremonies and receptions are endless. Just ask your styling/planner for their most exciting ideas, or I would be happy to share my thoughts with you as well.
These fabrics are generally custom order. If you are interested in incorporating naturally dyed silks or other fabrics in your wedding, simply email me kate@thelesserbear.com to discuss your ideas.
Similarly, if you need table linens, many of these are available only be custom order. I will share examples in a future blog post, but do not hesitate to reach out to discuss table linens as well.
]]>Photo: Kylie Bricker Photography | Florals: Old Slate Farm | Planning/Design: Events Held Dear | Ribbon: The Lesser Bear
See, doesn't he look handsome?!
I love this shot because the bouquet and ribbon are actually a perfect complement to her soft flowing dress
Photo: Kylie Bricker Photography | Florals: Old Slate Farm | Venue: Clary Gardens | Ribbon: The Lesser Bear
Photo: Jenny Haas Photography | Florals: Roots Floral Design | Hair and Makeup: Megan E. Grimm | Venue: Laurel Hall | Ribbon: The Lesser Bear
Photo: Leah Barry Photography | Florals: Evergreen Floral | Suit: Pursuit | Dress: B. Loved Bridal | HMUA: Sweetly Pinned | Ribbon: The Lesser Bear
Photo: Ashley West Photography | Design/Planning: Auburn & Ivory Creative | Florals: Evergreen Floral Co. | Ribbon: The Lesser Bear
But can we also talk about how I would LOVE to see grooms with their own bouquets?! A quick search of the #twogrooms shows a severe lack of bouquets (and ribbon!) on men. I know that it isn't tradition, and that two suits with killer boutonnieres are really so classic and classy, but who is to say that one or two bouquets couldn't also be amazing and bring a little drama and softness to the design of the day. Two brides with bouquets can look beautiful, or one with a bouquet and one with a boutonniere is also lovely, so why can't men have floral fun too?
Photo: Kylie Bricker Photography | Planning and Design: A Charming Fete | Florals: Evergreen Floral Co. | Ribbon: The Lesser Bear
If you and/or your groom carried flowers, I would love to see photos! If you need advice on how to use ribbon on a bouquet, or in any other way for your wedding, just reach out.
Photo: Leigh Elizabeth Photography | Planning and Design: Auburn & Ivory Creative | Venue: The Club Corazon | Model: The Wild Path | Ribbon: The Lesser Bear
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Meredith packed this shoot fully of dreamily romantic details and rich textures. Katie from Old Slate Farm did an amazing job creating floral installations that seem to grow wild from the ground in a magical way. The bouquet featured a wide width of our Pecan silk habotai ribbon.
In a recent blog post Meredith describes the florals and tables
cape:
The captivating floral designs were a true star of this painting inspired wedding editorial. The designs feature an abundance of beautiful texture; black tomatoes and celosia provide an edgier aesthetic, while the addition of garden roses and cosmos soften the look. The lavish wedding bouquet was even more stunning in person. Katie’s creativity sets her apart as one of central Ohio’s best wedding florists.
To add rustic touches to the table setting, we used 19th century cutlery and heavy stone plates. In contrast, a rich wool gauze table-runner and delicate lavender glassware modernized the look. A light and airy floral arrangement subdued the overall look of the table-scape. Finally, black tomatoes and quail eggs added modern, quirky charm.
Jenna Powers did an amazing job of capturing all of this beauty on film.
For this project I created a long wool gauze table runner and linen napkins embroidered by hand with the monogram used in the amazing invitation suite design and made by Cheer Up Press
But my favorite moments of all were in the river scenes. They bring to mind the painting Ophelia and are a modern day take on all the romance of the Pre-Raphaelite movement.
Vendors:
Photography: Jenna Powers | Concept + Styling: Auburn + Ivory
| Floral Design: Old Slate Farm | Hair + Makeup: Angie Warren Artistry | Gown Designer: Odylne The Ceremony | Bridal Shop: Lex and Lynne Bridal | Lace Robe: Girl and A Serious Dream | Stationary: Cheer Up Press | Silks + Linens: The Lesser Bear | Cake: Le Gateau | Furniture Rentals: The Rural Society | Location: The Quarry Chapel & Honeyrun Falls | Modeling Agency: foundmodels.com
I am excited to be a vendor at this very special event. The Wedding Mindset Makeover hosted by Intuitive Eating + Mindset Coach, Julie Ohlemacher (who happens to be one of our brides from December!), is the perfect way plan your wedding in a way that is stress free and intentional.
This bridal day retreat will be at Haven Collective on April 13th from 10-2pm.
You’ll get two empowering workshops led by Julie, Intuitive Eating + Mindset Coach: Mastering Your Wedding Day Mindset, which will dive into the brain training for the big day, and Intuitive Eating 101, which will help you navigate these next few months (years) before your wedding with trust, love and ease when it comes to food, exercise and your body.
Rachel Kerr of The Beauty Boost will start the day with guided meditation and journaling.
You’ll also get to mix and mingle with some of the best local vendors in the biz throughout the morning and afternoon. See their work, pick their brain, become their bestie.
Oh, and how does brunch sound? Because the amazing Luxe and Lemons will be serving up a totally instragrammable avocado toast bar with... mimosas, of course!
Vendors include:
The Lesser Bear
Space is limited, so snag your bestie and your tickets now
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It has been a wonderful challenge to teach myself the skill of spinning, and a joy to learn to work with fibers from flax to silk.
The first step is to take the silk roving (shown above) and spin it into a single thread.
The second step is to take two spools of singles and twist or ply them together to form on double ply twine.
I then dye the skein of twine using plant materials which are either grown in my garden, or foraged in my local area.
It is a lot of work, but I am so excited about the final product and I can't wait to see how you use it!
At the moment, you can find Silver and Blush Silk Twine available on the website, and shortly you will also be able to purchase Ebony, Dark Grey and Antique White.
Stay tuned for more fibers soon, such as flax and wool/silk blend as well as yarns for weaving and craft projects.
]]>This styled shoot was recently featured on Kentucky Bride
"From the photographer: When planning this shoot, I was really inspired by the refreshing feeling you get when spring rolls around, and I wanted that freshness to be portrayed in this shoot. Between the soft pinks and greens to the blossoming flowers in the greenhouse, this shoot was the epitome of the blissful spring season. What I think stands out the most about this shoot are the floral wearables, designed and crafted by florist, Tracey Parriman. I truly believe that there will be a fun boho plant-loving bride that will want to incorporate the floral wearables into her big day! Tracey even provided a floral wearable for the groom.
We were so thankful for beautiful dresses that tied the entire fresh and flirty look together that we were trying to achieve. We wanted to incorporate two dresses to showcase a more sophisticated and bold bride (lace dress) and also a fun, flirty bride (sweetheart neckline). Another fun detail that all brides can do is to incorporate traditional household items for unconventional ways in their wedding. Who would have thought that a vintage dresser with flowers overflowing would be the perfect cake stand? This can be done on any type of budget! We wanted to set a tone for brides that seemed realistic and possible to achieve. At the end of the day to get a similar look all you need is pretty florals, pops of color and a dress that fits your personality as a bride!"
My favorite parts of this shoot are, of course, the spring blooming trees, which you can almost smell. I also love the combination of Blossom and Petal Pink Silk Crepe de Chine Ribbon on the bouquet of gorgeous springy flowers from Tracey Rae Farmer Florist.
For this shoot, I also made a petal pink silk gauze runner, which blows soft and billowing in the breeze during the shoot.
Photography: Olivia Hatfield | Venue + Florals: Tracey Rae Farmer Florist | Location: Midland, OH | Event Designer: Olivia Hatfield and Tracey Parriman | Cake: Trix and Treats | Rentals: Queen City Vignette, China - Sidona Lane | Hair: Amanda Guilmette | Makeup: Andrea Rachelle Squires | Bride’s Attire: Dresses - Blush by Hayley Paige and “Stevie” Made by Love Bridal from Hyde Park Bridal | Groom’s Attire: Jos. A. Bank | Silk Ribbons: The Lesser Bear, Assistant - Caitlin Bamforth
]]>The Bespoke Wedding event is happening again this year! It is on Jan. 13th from 12-3 and is planned by Events Held Dear, and hosted at Vue Columbus, this year's event is going to be even bigger, with many wonderful local wedding vendors.
You will be able to meet and be inspired by florists, photographers, planners, rentals, and more - and of course, you will be able to see Lesser Bear ribbon in person!
The event is free, but it would be wonderful if you could RSVP, so that vendors can prepare enough food, etc.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-bespoke-wedding-event-registration-53147940922
I hope to see you there!!!
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