Something Old Something New Bridal Event

Happy St. Patrick's Day!  We're working on some custom orders here and thinking about getting some corned beef and cabbage somewhere.

I've been wanting to share photos from one of the events we attended. Recently we were a part of the Something Old Something New Bridal Event at the Buffalo History Museum.  It featured beautiful vintage photographs by wedding photographer Ettore Porreca, now 92, historic wedding gowns from the museum, modern gowns by Anatomy, and our accessories (Rice Rafferty Couture Accessories).  I had my wedding here back in June, so it was very special to be in this space again.   I even wore my wedding gown again for the day.  We added our own embellishments to the dress, so we had fun showing guests at the event our accessories that add a unique touch to a wedding or special event. 

 

i love this museum!  it's my favorite landmark in Buffalo

 

Maureen's Florist

 

our accessory table

 

we are the designers - mother and daughter

  

Ettore Porreca's bride portraits - “We used to have a saying, ‘Photographs have the least value on the day they are delivered,’” Porreca said. “As time goes on, they become heirlooms.” 

 

Ali's modern day wedding gowns (three on the left) 

 

There was a wedding dress contest - the woman who donated her mom's wedding dress said her family didn't have money for her mom's wedding dress, so her brother brought home a parachute from the war (this was during World War II) and they made the dress from that (see picture above).  The story brought tears to my eyes. 

 

Beautiful live music

 

historic gowns from the museum's collection

Boutique Bridal Party Recap

 

We had such a great time at the Boutique Bridal Party!  Thank you to all of our supporters!  It was so great to meet new brides and wedding vendors in Buffalo.  I wish there was a unique bridal show like this a year ago when I was getting married.  We collaborated with Anatomy (dresses) and Elizabeth Dugan (hair styling) on a walking fashion show at the event.  The models were stunning!  Special thanks to Erica, Ali, and Shannon for all of your hard work!  It was a fabulous night!

Rice Rafferty specializes in one-of-a kind handmade bridal veils.  We also make garters, hair adornments/ hair clips, bridal sashes, guest book pens, statement necklaces, silk and velvet devore scarves, cake toppers, and wedding decor.  We also make fine art for the home www.carolannricerafferty.com

Check out our etsy site   www.ricerafferty.etsy.com
or message us for a specific request   info@ricerafferty.com

Spring Ahead with Silk Devore!

I'm SO ready for warmer weather and road trips! Come on Spring, you're my favorite season - please don't disappoint!  We've been busy in our studio.  We just wrapped up a few bridal events and photo shoots.  Above is one of the photos from our shoot over the weekend with our lovely model, Amy.  It was such an inspiring weekend collaborating with other artists.  Will post more soon!

Our hand dyed devore silk scarves with art nouveau pattern would be great for bridesmaid gifts, mother's day gifts, or a pretty wrap for the prom or wedding.  Spring ahead with our Persephone Goddess of Springtime Scarf!  This wrap is great for spring and summer. 
https://www.etsy.com/listing/125804319/spring-green-devore-burnout-silk-scarf

Florida Fun in the Sun

 

My husband and I just got back from a little vacation to Southern Florida.  It was such a blast.  I can never get enough of beaches, palm trees, and sunsets.  My dream in college was to take off and open a smoothie stand next to the beach.  How cool would that be?  It felt great to escape the snow from up north and feel the warmth of the sun.  I got to do a little jogging, swimming, and lots of walking along the ocean.  We went to Miami, West Palm, and Fort Lauderdale.  I was really happy to come back home to my cat (I missed my little guy) and get working on new designs.

I wore some of my new designs on the trip.  Here is the new Pearl Halo Headband - perfect for bohemian brides. <3 br="">

Flashback Friday - 80s Re Enactment

/// Flashback Friday ///

Rice Rafferty officially launched in 2009. Its initial origin began with Carol's ambitious sewing as a young woman.

Pictured here, Bushy Run Battlefield 1987 Ligonier, Pa (1750's French and Indian War Re enactment Group) - Carol made the clothing for the entire family.  Rice Rafferty's love of history continues with every design. 

Click the link below to learn more about Carol and Kara and their accessory company Rice Rafferty
www.ricerafferty.com

Handmade Lingerie

We're preparing for the upcoming bridal events - Bridal Boutique Party and Something New Something Old Event at the Buffalo History Museum.  SO excited!  We're also working on some new designs and decided to experiment with lingerie.  Carol started to design a garter belt.  It's an ornately embellished garter belt that could be pleasing to enjoy as a boudoir ornament as well as worn as an accessory.  Made of pearls, hand dyed purple lace, and satin.  www.ricerafferty.com

Message us if you're interested in lingerie!  info@ricerafferty.com

Love Letters

We're in the valentine spirit over here in our studio.  Here is our Love Letter Hair Adornment.  Love letter silk screen print on hand dyed silk fabric.  Hair comb attached to the back.

www.ricerafferty.etsy.com

Veil Length Guide

Our new Rice Rafferty Couture Accessories Veil Guide is a great tool for brides to see all the different veil length styles.  You might see our chart and think - there are so many different styles how do you decide on just one?

Your Veil length depends on a few factors:
1 Your Dress
2 Your Ceremony and Reception Location (indoor, outdoor, afternoon, evening, church, etc)
3 Your Wedding Style

If you have any questions we're happy to help!  That's what we're here for!  info@ricerafferty.com

Simply Inspirational Gowns

 

Christian Dior - Gown - love the angle on this skirt!

 

Emilio Pucci - Gown - this one sleeved dress would make a great bridal gown!

 

Valentino - Gown - this dress is stunning with its menswear details

 

Badgley Mischka - Shoes

I hope everyone is staying warm during this very cold winter week.  Here's some designer inspiration to help get your mind off of snow.  These are some of my favorite designs out there right now.  I love very romantic designs with unique details.  Will post some new Rice Raffety Couture Accessories pieces soon!

DIY Devore Burnout Velvet

Have you been curious how to make that beautiful velvet burnout called devore? Now you can! Easy to read velvet burnout instructions, as taught in college fiber program.

Make your very own Devore Burnout Velvet NOW with rice rafferty e Instructions - very detailed. Complete with photos of finished product and photos of the process

This purchase includes your own step by step guide of how to make your own devore burnout velvet.

Velvet devore can be made into scarves, shawls, wraps, wearable art and art objects, etc. Great for aged costume designs.

www.ricerafferty.com