Today’s excitement is the result of three illuminating discoveries: A true Story, a illuminating album and a dream palette to top it all off.  Very seldom do I have the pleasure of hearing an amazing true story, listen to an eclectic ensemble of soulful folk music, and get inspired to do a dream palette, all in the same vein.

(Above: Mexican dancer photo via SPD; Celtic Dancers by Michael Pfammatter via here)

The Story

I’m talking about the tale of the notable countrymen of Ireland who deserted their army to fight with the Mexicans, during the Mexican-American War of 1846.  I’m talking about courage, history’s secret, bravado and the coming together of two cultures.  I’m talking about the fusion of Irish spirit and Mexican soul in a way that’s never been told…until now.  Yes, I’m talking about the expatriate soldiers of  St. Patrick’s Battalion, who paid the ultimate price to follow their hearts (deserting their home country), and remain martyrs in many eyes, till this day.  To read the full story, read here.

The Album

Ever heard of Irish/Mexican Music?  Guitarist and six-time Grammy award winner, Ry Cooder (Buena Vista Social Club) partners with The Chieftains, Ireland’s ambassadors to music beyond borders, in the release of their newest album: San Patricio by Concord Music Group.

Inspiration: SAN PATRICIO

(Above: San Patricio Album)

Some of the other artists on the album include Lila Downs, Los Tigres del Norte, Spanish piper Carlos Nuñez, Los Folkloristas, the Bay Area-based Los Cenzontles, the 90-year-old cancion ranchera singer Chavela Vargas, as well as Latin-music-attuned American musicians Linda Ronstadt and Los Lobos’ David Hidalgo and Cesar Rosas. The music is an  explosive celebration of Latin rhythms, Celtic beats, and folk ballads that transcend mainstream sound, and blend elegantly like harmony to one’s ears.  The album is available for pre-order, here (On sale March 9)

The Palette

Dream Palette #70: IRISH FIESTA

Colors: Moss Green, Citrus Orange and White

(Above: Church photo by Yazyjo; Boutonniere via Our Blog of Love;  Guinness Bridesmaids photo by Stéphane Lame; Cake by Amorology Weddings; Cake topper photo by Jonas Peterson; Reception photo by Marie Labbancz via Bride’s Cafe; Mexican Cookies; Celtic Emblem; Bridal bouquet by Event Success [Photo by April Greer]; Fruit bowl & Punch photo by Ulrika Ekblom; Green & Orange Papel Picado via Good Housekeeping; Kilt; Bride with Band via Weddings by Color; Bride with floral headpiece by Richard Dunkley; Moss centerpiece via Brides [Photo by Wendell Webber]; Green Bridesmaids; Flower aisle decor; Donkey via Brides [Photo by Jim Bastardo])

Okay, I’m off to listen to San Patricio.  I hope you get to experience the fusion inspiration through music, history and now dream palettes.

I’m so excited about Fri-Style Friday today.  Today’s wedding feature is not only magical and truly inspiring in it’s level of detail, decor and creativity, but captivating in the style of photography.  Morgan Lynn of Morgan Lynn Photography offered me full access to the Brittany and Comone’s wedding album, and as much as I tried to narrow down my choices, the selection of stunning images was just too seductive.  As a result, the feature will be broken down into two parts just so I can share all the fabulous details.

So grab a seat (if you aren’t already) and prepare to be inspired.  I give you the magical Texas masquerade of Brittany and Comone.

Setting: Houston, Texas

Heroine & Hero: Native American/Caucasian Bride – Brittany and her African American Groom – Comone.

Colors: Chocolate Brown, Crème brûlée and Gold Champagne

Scene #1: WE’RE NOT IN OKLAHOMA ANYMORE…

…as a matter of fact, we’re not even in Texas.  We’re  at the intersection of Fairyland and Fabulous.

(Above: Bridal Gown by Maggie Sottero; Shoes by Pleaser; Make up by bride’s Tiffany Maxey of Mary Kay Cosmetics)

After being in a relationship for over 12 years, Oklahoma native – Brittany and Texan-born Comone decided that their wedding should be a reflection of who they were.  From the reflection of their personal style, to being surrounded by friends and family, the stage was set for the perfect wedding.

(Above: Suits by Jean Yves Chocolate Tone)

Scene #2: AMBIENT CHARM AND CLASSICAL HIP-HOP

The signature colors of chocolate brown, crème brûlée and gold champagne were consistently incorporated throughout the ceremony’s location.  Whether those colors were a personal favorite or selected to fit the space, Brittany’s choice was a touch down.  Their charming desert-kissed location was washed in shades of camel, clay and brown.  By pairing their signature colors and ambient lighting, they complemented the space perfectly.

(All Images by Morgan Lynn Photography; Music by Divisi Strings Quartet)

The last photo is so Cinderella, I LOVE IT!  Notice the circular seating pattern which is such a great way to be all inclusive.  It’s also a smart way to fit more people into a space.  ” We did not want our guests seated in the traditional “bride’s side” and “groom’s side” seating arrangement.” Said Brittany. “Instead we wanted guests from both sides to intermingle and get to know each other as we are one family now!”

Fusion Music Idea: Did you notice the title printed on the photo of the sheet music?  Look again, it reads “Upgrade You”… as in Beyonce’s “Upgrade You!” The wedding quartet played classical latin music for the ceremony and hip hop for the reception (images of which we’ll see later).  Now, that’s what I call a clever way to maximize money spent on your vendors, maintain classy elegance, and switch things up.  In case you’re wondering how hip-hop sounds on classical instruments, check out one of the more famous hip hop violinists out today: Miri Ben-Ari.

Stay tuned later today for the fairytale wedding and even more magical reception.

Spicyhugs,

Fri

Last year, my husband and I enjoyed a warm LA summer evening of live music with Sara Tavares. It was more like live Poetry set to harmony, percussion and infectious rhythm.  Now I don’t normally wait in line and go speechless over musicians (as they are just people)…but I did channel my inner groupie to wait in line after wards to meet her.

This Afro-Portuguese songstress, is equal parts singer-songwriter, as she is soul and rhythm, conjuring up influences from her Cape Verde (West Africa) and Portuguese upbringing.  I’m super excited about her new album that came out this May called Xinti.

WEDDING PLAYLIST IDEA: One of her earlier hits – Balance, could be a lovely addition to your wedding playlist.

Here’s a great alternative for the Wedding Aisle March or even the First Dance.

If you haven’t heard of Ana Serrano van der Laan (“Aka- Ana Laan,”) then consider this your lucky day.  Born in Madrid, raised in Stockholm and England, this singer songwriter is a charming fusion of Bossa Nova, Feist and a chilled glass of Sangria on a warm summer day.

Her sophomore album: Chocolate and Roses, has me giddy all over.  Giddy, like high school crush giddy.  Because LBH (Let’s Be Honest), who doesn’t love chocolate & roses?

Listening to her cosmopolitan sound, global beats and bossa nova rhythms, will have you inspired.  Try one on of her hits: “Paradise” for size.

Whether you’re getting married, looking for inspiration, or just interested in a phenomenal new artist…check her out.