Shhh... a secret look at today's wedding

My fabulous boss allowed me to take a day off today to allow me to photograph Helen's wedding. As I rule I do not take bookings in the week, but long story short these two lovelies are very important to Rob and I, it was essential that we were there today and I begged, all but on my knees to a very understanding boss who initially had not been able to authorise the leave.As the couple are fairly private this will not be a facebook wedding, so will only appear on the official website's gallery, but here is a peek through my lens this afternoon.

More to come following my interview with the bride.

All about the paper - Japanese Paper Dolls - Washi Dolls

My husband is a Japanophile, and I inherited an appreciation of Japanese art from my Grandmother. Our home is dotted with artefacts, books, toys, artwork originals and inspired designs.

For Christmas last year I bought some Kokeshi dolls and a bowl from The Japanese Shop. This afternoon I received an email with some offers for Mother's Day. Upon browsing their site I found their Washi Paper Dolls, which I do not recall seeing on the site before, perhaps I wasn't looking.

Washi (meaning Japanese paper) is handmade paper made from bark, rice, bamboo, hemp and wheat, with long fibres, making it stronger than regular paper. It is used in Japanese bank notes and can be used in making clothing as well as crafts.

The Japanese Shop are holding an Ohanami, a cherry blossom picnic in Harrogate Monday 2nd May, raising money for the Red Cross Japan Tsunami Appeal. For more details of the event, click here.

Paper Theatres

When i was around 8 years old, an aunt bought me a Marks and Spencer's book, Cut and Assemble your own paper theatre. My grandma bought me the Panny Bazaar version also, which for the last two years I have been trawlling the internet to try and find, so far no joy but I believe there is one out there with my name on it.

I will be placing images of my favourite examples in the coming months. For the meantime here is a lovely picture courtesy of EKDuncan.

Paper cuts part one - Julene Harrison

Clumsy clogs ol' me has been slicing fingers to shreds with paper this week, so I thought I'd feature a more favoured variety of paper cuts.

I love paper cuts, from paperchains and snowflakes made in primary schools to these intricate delicate peices.

These are by London based artsist Julene Harrison, and are rather special. She is available for commission, see her website here madebyjulene

My buzzy bee necklace

Wanted to show you this. My usherettes bought this for a gift on my wedding day. I wore it with my bridal garb, it's goregous and by Alex Monroe.

Other collections include pieces with floral themes, feathers and birds.