Styling a Wedding Table by Cassandra LaValle (Kunst)

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Seattle-based stylist and voice behind the popular lifestyle blog Coco+Kelley, Cassandra LaValle, transforms a local restaurant, Frank’s, into an aqua-colored, nautical soiree. From the seashell accents to the ocean-hued ombre layered cake to the oyster house in which the table was styled, Cassandra creates a detailed and thoughtful look to inspire everygirls on the coasts (or any aquatic enthusiast for that matter).

To reiterate, we asked three talented stylists to style a wedding tablescape including the five main ingredients:
1. the chairs
2. place settings
3. place cards
4. centerpiece
5. party favors for guests

Without further ado, we present the seaside-inspired table of Cassandra LaValle.

And in case you missed them, be sure to look back at the elegant coral and orange tablescape of Anne Book and the secret garden-inspired scene created by Camille Styles.

1. What advice do you have for brides-to-be looking to work with an event planner?
Weddings can be pretty emotional and stressful. If you don’t communicate well or feel like you have a good relationship with your coordinator, you’re not going to be able to enjoy the process! Find someone who you feel an instant connection with, who really understands your vision, priorities, and budget!

2. It’s no secret. So many weddings end up looking the same. What tips do you have for making your wedding stand out?
With so many great inspiration sources out there these days, I see a lot of brides trying to cram in all these cute little ideas and details, but really what makes a wedding stand out to me are the ideas that feel really personal to the couple. Edit down your inspirations, and incorporate the details that mean the most to you. It’s not about making your wedding stand out—it’s about making your wedding feel special and genuine to your style and values as a couple.

3. What are some of your favorite online sources for:
invitations: I love Mae Mae Paperie, Delphine Press, and Bella Figura
flowers: My two favorite locals are McKenzie Powell and Fleurish. Outside of Seattle, Saipua and Tulipina are great sources for inspiration!
dresses: Where do I start? The dress is such a personal thing, but two of my favorites are Jenny Packham and Elizabeth Fillmore. And Monique Lhuillier is always classic to me.
shoes: If you’re looking for great colors or customizable heels, I like Nina’s options, otherwise, I’d say shop where you’re going to get the best service. Nordstrom is great and of course Zappos!

4. Where do you find are the easiest ways to save money when it comes to planning a wedding? What’s worth splurging on? What’s not?
The photographer is the number one splurge on my list! When it’s all said and done, all you have left at the end of that big day will be the memories captured in those photos! A great venue is also worth a splurge—it can save you from having to spend too much on decor! Places where I reign the spending in are the pieces that are a little more ‘disposable’ like save the dates or table seating cards. Also, finding places to keep things simple. Do you really need a full dessert buffet? Probably not!

5. What’s your favorite detail/item in the look you created?
Oh gosh—don’t make me choose! I think the piece that has the most impact might actually be the chargers because they’re so different, but the centerpieces—both florals and cake—really set the tone! The favors are also a favorite because I love how they tied into the theme.

6. When and how did you discover your passion for interior design and styling?
I think it started at a really young age, but I didn’t recognize it until much later in life. I was always moving things around in my bedroom, wanting to repaint the walls, and redecorate. But, in my first job out of college when I was working for a boutique event design company is when I really discovered my passion for all things design!

Combining her talent for interiors with an eye for fashion and design, Cassandra launched the lifestyle company coco+kelley in October 2008. Her desire to guide clients in discovering their personal style as a part of the design process became the essence of the coco+kelley philosophy: Life is in the details. Style accordingly. With a background in public relations and event design, Cassandra’s first styling experience came with a serendipitous stint as a Market Editor for a local home and garden magazine. Reinspired to follow her passions, Cassandra launched the popular style blog, coco+kelley, in 2007.

Styling: Cassandra LaValle // Photography: James Moes // Flowers: McKenzie Powell // Venue: Frank’s Oyster House // Table Linens: Pedersen’s // Dishware: Z Gallerie // Favors: Linnea’s Lights // Cake: Baked

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