Alyson + Jesse

As the former editor-in-chief of three regional bridal magazines, I've seen many of weddings over the years. But never have I been so proud as to run the following story about Alyson and Jesse Newquist — Minnesota Bride's first ever same-sex couple.

I didn't want to make a big deal out of it, because it shouldn't be an exception to the norm, but, well, the United States hasn't exactly gotten to that point yet, and it is a big deal. You might even be wondering what took so long! It all boils down to equality — we only feature the best local weddings in the magazine, regardless of sexual orientation, but hadn't yet seen a same-sex wedding that met our standards. Until now.

Jesse and Alyson's wedding was absolutely gorgeous and full of creative, meaningful details. They even opened their own venue in the process! Check out Matt Burgess' wonderfully written feature on these inspiring newlyweds, with photos by Photogen Inc:

Holiday Jewel Tones and Glossy Lipstick

I'm feeling inspired by this moody editorial starring Keira Knightley, from the January issue of Vogue UK, for the following reasons:

1. My skin is currently that pale. Thanks, winter.
2. The rich pops of color and jewel tones in Ms. Knightley's attire feel so ripe for the holiday season.
3. Same goes for the sultry, lacquer-like finish on her lips. What a cupid's bow on that girl!
4. This looks like it was shot in a romantic Mediterranean plaza, and couldn't we all use a little Mediterranean plaza in our lives? Hello, Greece; let's hang out.

Since I'm making lists, here's what I still need to accomplish before the holidays:

1. Find a Christmas present for my boyfriend. He's the last one left on my list. His interests include expensive booze, expensive outerwear, expensive cookware and expensive camping gear. Remind me again why I'm dating someone whose tastes begin in the triple digits? (oh yeah — those cute dimples, and his culinary abilities, and his dorkiness, and maybe some other things too)
2. Shop for shoes online. I'm looking for sturdy boots with a thick heel that still manage to look chic. Maybe a wedge? Anyway, Macy's has a killer sale right now, which just might be the ticket.
3. Wrap gifts.
4. Muster up the self control to not eat myself into oblivion over the next two weeks.

How have your holidays been? Are you finished gift-shopping yet? Do you plan on watching your waistline this month?

Hair today, gone tomorrow

Can't get enough of this wickedly beautiful editorial from FASHIONTREND, an Australian quarterly magazine. The unabashedly kinky '80s hair, jet-black eye makeup and agressive accessories feel so modern and bold. And it still mantains an all-over glamorous vibe.

Have you ever thought about getting a perm? I still remember, quite clearly, in 1993 when my best friend, Sam, permed her hair. She looked so cool. Back then, my hair wasn't thick enough to be eligible, but now it's filled out and I've consider committing to curly. In fact, a few haircuts ago, I asked my stylist what she thought, but she said that because I color my hair, I can't perm it too. It'd get fried and could possibly fall out — in other words, the stuff of nightmares. Not worth the risk, if you ask me.