Petals, Pearls, and Tulle on Satin and Organza ivory ribbon. Sweet!
This would be great to bring some fun into a sleek, minimal wedding dress or in your hair during the reception.
Skyline Rocks! November 14, 2009
First Friday opening at Syline Salon and Boutique, Organized By Cristal Highland of Pistol Threads. The pop-up-shop will be up for your holiday shopping pleasures, and features many fine Kansas City artists and designers. Go visit it! SO much fun!
Photos thanks to Wheat Photography.
More about the event at PresentMagazine.com
Tease III- Organic Ring Pillows November 12, 2009
Say I DO ( I cannot resist the occasional overdone wedding pun) to Ring Bearer Pillows that you can REUSE as throws in your home. They all have ties for rings- but tie those things up and put them in your house after your wedding! Who wouldn’t want one of these cuties adorning a chair?
Rings by fellow Wedding Hive co-founder Genevieve Flynn Metalsmith
Photo by Melissa Lin Ellis
New Garters to Tease and Please November 11, 2009
Photos my Melissa Lin Ellis
NEW WEBSITE coming soon!
Lots of new products for sale… you’ll be in love!
Wild Rose and Leaf Organic Headband October 8, 2009
Mother of Darkness! How cute is this Organic Flower Headband?
Grosgrain bow at flower center is created from the selvedge edge of the fabric yardage- I’m like a Native American using every part of the buffalo, haha. But, seriously- no waste here.
Made from certified organic hemp/cotton that is grown and processed in the US.
Organic Flower Headband- UnFeather'd $55
Mixed ivory flower petals, and nautral undyed feathers. Comfy elastic back. Self-fabric inserts into flower, leaves, and bow.
Perfect for Bridal and Beyond, let it take you where you are going.
Cotton Candy, Kangaroos, and Parasol Wedding Shots October 5, 2009
Megan in Green Dyed Wedding Dress slip and Hair piece by Janay A
I love their fun, fresh style!
Denise Klee is the photographer, her business is called Boonie Sunshine Photography.
Owl and Mouse September 20, 2009
OWL+MOUSE
owl+mouse textile designs is a small printing company based in kansas city, mo. all designs are hand-dyed and printed by kcai grads alice youngblood and cristin llewellyn.
Wouldn’t these shirts be adorable in engagement photos?
Bling Queen September 18, 2009
Ohhh, shiny.
Now, normally I favor subtly pearl and vintage buttons over big sparkles of crystal. These Swarovski crystals i just got might inspire me to change my toon (don’t fret, I’m not abandoning my rustic , earthy, vintage style entirely)… I’m just digging on some bling in addition to my former clean, matte aesthetic.
I have these crystals in Aurore Boreale (AB- rainbow shine), Citrine, Aquamarine, and Peridot. They would be sweet scattered in one of my Flower-Bomb Headbands, on a Veil or Comb, or even sparkeling up some bouquet or garment.
If used on a Veil, I would put them back-to back on both sides of the veil (to make sure the backsides don’t photograph like black dots). Pass the Sparkle, please.
I might be blinded if I stare at them any longer! Seriously.
Lovin’ on The Farmhouse September 17, 2009
You know how after you’ve had a really long day all you can think about is a nice comforting dinner? Maybe it’s something you grew up eating, something fresh and soul-soothing, something that takes you back to the sheer joy of tasting & allows all other thoughts on your mind to simply drift away.
Now, couple the bliss of satisfaction in sustenance with the responsibility of supporting your local farmer & reducing the demand on the earth in food transportation and you’ll understand the reason behind The Farmhouse.
The Farmhouse is a new farm-to-table resteraunt in the Rivermarket. So Yummy!
TODAY THURSDAY THE 17th:
4 courses for $45 per person, a steal of a deal for some of the most fresh food you can find in Kansas City. By reservation. Cannot make it? Every other Thursday, next dinner is September 24th.
Brides- they CATER!
OCATION & DIRECTIONS :
300 Delaware St
Kansas City, Missouri 64105HOURS & NUMBERS :
Monday-Friday : 11 to 2
816:569:6032 {main}
816:569:6034 {fax}
http://www.eatatthefarmhouse.com/
Birdcage Flower Bomb Bride-Band September 6, 2009
| $45 |
| Etsy: Your place to buy & sell all things handmade abstractpretty.etsy.com |
This bridal headband is perfect for the anti-tiara bride.
Fun russian net peeks out fro this handmade giant flower. It’s a headband with built in fascinator, better then a veil!
Available in eco hemp, ivory, and white with pearl or crystal accent (shown in white with pearl). Specify fabric and crystal or pearl accent with your order to match your bridal gown!
Sized with elastic for an easy perfect fit. Have a big or small nogin? Just let me know!
Handmade in KC by Janay A. Availabe on Etsy.
Lezi Love September 3, 2009
The Wedding Hive Collaborative in conjunction with photographer Anne Grace and Moxie Q staged this lesbian love photoshoot.
Our models Sara and Liza are a real couple.
Even though this was a ‘fake’ wedding, the emotion was very real.
With my man Kevin preciding as the officant, the couple made their own vows on the spot which were super sweet.
Directed by Interior Designer Edward Neer
Flower Bomb Headbands and Belt September 2, 2009
Gray silk and Coral Cotton Flower Bomb Headbands
Coral and Gray Silk Polka Dot Flower Bomb Belt
Coral Cotton Flower Bomb Belt
Coral Silk Polka Dot Flower Bomb Headband
Coral Silk Polka Dot Flower Bomb Belt
Wasabi Green Silk Polka Dot Flower Bomb Headband and Belt
Gray and Wasabi Green Silk Polka Dot Flower Bomb Headband
These will be listed online for sale soon- email me to order!
Headbands $25
Belts $35
Sarah + Megan August 22 August 30, 2009
“I could not be happier with Janay’s work. The dress she made for me was beyond what I could have hoped for and was an incredible value for such a high quality product. I would recommend her work to anyone and everyone.”
I actually never met Sarah in person, since she lives far away and ordered her dress online from my etsy shop.
She wore the lace-up back corset and box pleated skirt in ivory satin-backed shantung.
Isn’t their chemistry amazing?
This is my first introduction to Film Noir Photography, by Kelly Prizel, who also runs So You’re EnGAYged- and I love her work!
Brides on the East Coast definitely need to look into her!
Carly and Brady August 27, 2009
Carly and Brady had a super fun modern wedding at the Hobbs Building. Vests, Dress, Veil by Janay A.
Megan and Ajay August 26, 2009
Megan and Ajay had a trans-cultural Indian-American Wedding at the Hobbs building. Megan wore an heirloom Janay A re-designed dress that belonged to her mother. Look at her beautiful henna!
Megan’s hair fascinator was created using petals, vintage pearls, and feathers mixed with scrap fabric from her heirloom wedding dress.
Such great style!!! Contributions by Wedding Hive members:
Flowers by Ornamental Petal
Photos by Blue Window Creative
Dress and Hair Fascinator Janay A
Day 2 – NYC – Battery Park, China Town, Little Italy, Nolita August 20, 2009
Hi from NYC!
Day two was a blast= we crammed so much into one day that it’s hard to believe in retrospect. We begun by visiting Battery Park, then went to Chinatown. Street vendors were selling dragon fruit, which was a yummy snack. We found an amazing green cleaning, remodeling, and home store called Green Depot.
We shopped the Nolita area, which had shop after shop of super unique and handmade clothing. Our favorite was Label, they had a $5 and $10 rack of beautiful handmade clothing that we went after like wild rabbits.
Lunch was Spring Street Natural, we spent only $24 total on two plates of organic, local food, and their roasted red pepper/rosemary bread to start was melty yummy good.
Anna’s Heirloom Wedding Gown Design August 17, 2009
Anna Zimmerman wore her mother’s wedding dress that we totally redesigned. I added hand-braided trim, reset the straps and back, added godet inserts for additional skirt fulness (using fabric from the original matching jacket), and added fun lace to the front and back for movement. So special!
Anna works with the Sculpture Garden at the Nelson- Atkins Art Museum in Kansas City
…don’t these images pay amazing homage to their modern sensibility and interests?
I’ve seen allot of weddings and I’ve never seen upside down hanging flowers like this! So creative and unexpected!
Laura and Jori August 15, 2009
Laura and Jori had a unique indie wedding in their backyard, which was dripping potted flowers planted by Laura (a gardner) for the occasion.
After an estimated 17 musician procession of Laura’s Bandmates from Hearts of Darkness AfroBeat down the burlap isle, the Groom Jori entered. It was dramatic!
Soon after the band proceeded the the baby blue porch where the ceremony took place, and Laura entered.
She wore a dress that was redesigned for her by Janay A that had belonged to Jori’s grandmother.
To keep the skirt intack, the fabric was tucked with subtle peekaboo fabric roses (that used to line the waist of the dress) under each tuck. The back of the dress was completely open, which added a fun modern twist to this classic design!
The couple sang a self written song to each other for their ceremony, which was playful and completely them.
Nick and Laurie August 12, 2009
Our friends and neighbors Laurie and Nick had a heartfelt, earthy, and fun wedding.
I had so much fun altering her vintage wedding gown. Didn’t their photos turn out great- so personal!
Scarlett Garnet Jewelry Photoshoot August 11, 2009
Garnet in Janay A Dress made from vintage jersey and silk
Any girl would be lucky to wear Scarlett Garnet Jewelry any day of the week- especially on her Wedding Day! Their prices are so reasonable, you don’t have to be a rich girl to be an indie princess for your wedding!
Photos by Melissa Lin Ellis Photography
Jewelry by
Scarlett Garnet Jewelry
20’s Bridal Fashion Show August 10, 2009
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- Fan Dress (with Pockets and open back) Modeled by Jacy Rist, Photo Melissa Lin Ellis
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- Bridal Separates by Janay A Handmade, Photo Melissa Lin Ellis
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- Laura Evrard in her Custom Wedding Gown, Jacket, Veil by Janay A, Photo Melissa Lin Ellis
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- Easy Going Wedding Dress Separates, modeled by Caroline Hiatt
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- Bridal Separates by Janay A, photo Melissa Lin Ellis
Photographs by Melissa Lin Ellis Photography
Hair and Makeup Styling by Human Nature Salon, Westport KC
Jewelry by Scarlett Garnet and Genevieve Flynn Metalsmith
Flowers by Ornamental Petal
Clothing, veils, accessories, and wardrobe styling by Janay A Handmade
Hitched Weddings + Events August 10, 2009
.. A Fresh take on Wedding Planning in Kansas City…
“ Basically we see ourselves as an advocate for any engaged couple. We love to help people focus their wedding vision and organize their goals. We have worked with a variety of budgets, and really love to save people money where they can.”
“We love DIY projects and dreaming up unique ways to personalize weddings. We can do floral and decor, but we also love working with florists if that is the direction the bride would like to go. As you can tell by how many times I say the word love, we basically love weddings and events!”
Amy and Jessica of Hitched, they rock!
Visit their website for more info and to book.
Vintage Brooches & Men’s Ties! July 31, 2009
Make an appointment today!
Vintage Brooches & Ties
These vintage brooches are a steal with prices ranging from $8-$40.
Classic 50’s & 60’s style can be worn on chain or pinned. Pictures don’t do them justice.
The ties are in fabulous condition for their age. Let me know which one you are interested in.
Styles range from skinny to fat, handmade to highend. $7 apiece or $3 for $15.
Jen and Spike July 27, 2009
I just adore this couple! They are unique and spunky.
I custom designed all 5 bridesmaids dresses for each girl, and used earth-friendly vintage silk.
The bride wore her grandmothers wedding dress that I extensively altered. She has a custom asymmetrical birdcage veil edged in freshwater pearls and garters made from vintage and heirloom fabrics. She’s a punk rock princess!
Aimee and Scott July 27, 2009
Aimee and Scott Decker had a beautiful fall wedding, and made their own decorations with branches and twigs that were sweet. It was all very genuine, earthy, and fun.
Bride’s gown, jacket, veil, and tiara, and flowergirl dresses by Janay A Handmade.
NEW Garters! July 26, 2009
New garters- $25 each.
Set of 2 (one to throw- one to keep) for $40.
Bring in your heirloom fabric or buttons for an extra special garter.
Sexy!
Dan and Anastasia July 21, 2009
Anastasia Spartan and Dan Mellott had a personal and local-eco friendly wedding in Kansas City.
Their reception was a tribute to their radiant, jubilant spirits- filled with laughter and personality.
Linen Suit, Lace Dress, Bolero and veil by Janay A Handmade.
Amazing PAPER flowers by Bridget Kelley of Ornamental Petal.
~Thanks to the couple for allowing me to be a part of their wedding!~
Kristen’s Custom Garter and Veil! May 14, 2009
Kirsten looked amazing for her wedding recently! She wore a garter and veil by yours truly.
Custom Daywear – In, Out & About May 4, 2009
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Wrap Custom Denim Wrap Dress @ Studio
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Jersey Yoga Shirt – Austin
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Custom Clutch spotted at First Friday Opening @ Dollhouse.
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Redline Photos April 30, 2009
April of the Pink Pistols rocked out a custom tank dress, clutch, and bolero!
Bare Natural-Organic Cotton! April 25, 2009
Now making ALL bridal orders in
Certified Organic Cotton.
This fabric features a special Tussah-silk like weave that
leaves natural lines and slubs in the fabric.
Natural Color.
Grown and Processed in the US using non-harmful means.
Dyeable.
Sneak Peak April 23, 2009
Super Sneak Peak of the new Jersey Cabbage Rose Mini Dress/Tee series debuting at the Redline Fashion Show @ Nara
All sales of these items support my venture into using only ORGANIC Fabrics!!
RedLine AIDS Benefit Fashion Auction April 22, 2009
This years 2nd annual KC Redline Fashion Show and Benefit Auction is to be held this Thursday at the Nara event space above the restaurant at 1617 Main St.
Last year we had a crowd of over 350 people and were able to raise over $1500 for individuals living with AIDS right here in KC. Our goal this year is to raise over $3000.
Food and drinks to be catered by Nara.
I will be revealing a one-of-a-kind collection of handmade stretch tees and mini-dresses. They feature giant flowers and knotted fabric, not to be missed!
If you are able stop by, doors open at 7pm, fashion show starts at 8pm, and the bidding for the runway garments will start shortly there after.
Hope to see you there supporting this important cause!
Red and Black Custom Clutches April 22, 2009
Custom Bridesmaid Clutches-Silk with overlay of burnout sheer velvet!
Custom Garter and Asian Print Mini-Handbags April 17, 2009
custom garter
Garter- choose your own vintage fabrics and findings- $35 each
little handbag
asian print clutches
asian print clutches
Asian Print Quilted Clutches with pocket, $11 each. Purple, Black, or Blue.
Custom Hair Fascinators March 29, 2009
Made with organza scraps from the bride’s mother’s wedding dress which I altered for her to wear!
To match a short wedding dress and red-beaded edge veil, hot! Cannot wait for these ladies to get married so I can show you these awesome hair fascinators in action!
Order your own for $45-$75 depending on which feathers and materials used.
Interview/Photo Blog with Melissa Lin Ellis Photography March 10, 2009
I had the wonderful experience of spending the day with my new friend, Melissa Ellis. This is her interview of me for her blog and photos of my studio!
Featuring works in progress!
Melissa is offering 15% off to any Janay A bride who books her amazing event photography!
Dot Clutch- Perfect for your Bridesmaids! March 6, 2009
Check out these two beautiful clutch sets custom designed for wedding parties!
Above Photos by Melissa Lin Ellis,
$32 each including any stock vintage fabric from my vast collection. Aren’t these adorable and functional as bridesmaid party gifts and to carry at the wedding????!!!
Other Janay A clutches:
New Birdcage Veils! March 2, 2009
Just finished these 2 adorable birdcarge veils.
Email me to order one custom! White or Ivory net available.
Vintage pearl, pink Ostrich feather, and silk flowers russian net veil. $100.
Lace edged 2-comb birdcage blusher with polka-dot pearls. $100.
Laura’s Custom Gown February 28, 2009
Laura and Jeff got married in January- luckily a warm, beautiful day!
The original design-
The dress featured vintage pearls covering the zipper, slight bubble hem, and vintage lace hidden inside the pleats. The adorable jacket completed the look.
One of my new brides blogged about her gown! February 17, 2009
“ask the universe for an eco-chic wedding dress
Dress from Janay A. Handmade
It’s all I’ve been able to think about the past two days. Yes, I have to clean the house. Yes, I have a zillion things to do for work. Yes, my to-do list is madness-inducing. But all I’ve done during my two snow-days home from teaching is think about my dress.
I found it. I found it. I found it.
I NEVER thought I would become the crazy wedding person that I have suddenly turned into. I fall asleep thinking about necklines or tablescapes. I spend my free moments thinking about how to turn folders into envelopes. I’m spending hours on etsy.com browsing page after page of handmade dresses. Who is this crazy girl?
Well… it paid off yesterday, when I typed in “wedding dresses” into etsy’s search engine. 90 pages of dresses showed up. On page (I kid you not) 89, I found my dress designer.
Near the end of August, I came across a photo on a wedding blog. The bride was wearing a dress that I thought was perfect: short, crisp, vintage-looking. I couldn’t find it anywhere. I had no idea where she got it. There was no information available. So I just kept the picture of it in my mind — along the way, I came across a lot of other options. I got semi-excited about some of them, but I always came back to that one mystery dress. Well yesterday, I found it… only better.
It’s everything I had in my head plus stuff I didn’t even know I wanted. AND — it’s two pieces so I can actually wear it again (with a different skirt or shirt). AND it’ll be handmade by a hip young designer using eco-friendly materials. AND it costs 1/3 as much as all the other dresses that I like. It couldn’t be more perfect.
So.. hunting works. I didn’t have to settle. I’m so excited. YAY.
Have you found your dress yet?”
Wedding Hive Cocktail Hour @ Czar Bar! February 7, 2009
Calling all Brides and Grooms!
Thursday, February 26th, join the Wedding Hive for an evening of cocktails and schmoozing at the Czar Bar’s Happy Hour from 5pm- 7pm. We’d love to see your shining faces and get to know ya just that much more! Call Garnet at 816-914-5739 or check out our Facebook page if you have any questions or need directions.
Come get your “buzz” on, and don’t forget to bring your Honey!
Shop Awesome! January 24, 2009
Studio Show! Features awesome artists and designers, shop for your valentine or yourself!
Sunday, February 8th 2-6pm
New Years Fashion Rave! January 20, 2009
melissa in velvet open backed mini dress
Holly in Janay A
Molly in Janay A
Danielle and Janay A
Jenni in Janay A
photography by josephy lalli, flowers by ornamental petal
January 17, 2009
Diedre Sept 6, 2008
Handmade dress by yours truly, Janay A. High waisted rouched bodice gown with lace-up back and peekaboo front, featuring vintage lace from her mothers gown. Isn’t she amazing?!!!
Alice gets Married in Wonderland! January 7, 2009
1-22-09 the best Indie wedding vendors of KC gather!
Featuring a bridal fashion show by Janay A!
FREE admission, champagne, and entertanment!
Expect sensory overload with jewelry, cakes, food by californo’s, music, fashion, flowers!
Shopping Party at Czar Bar! December 16, 2008
CHECK IT!
THE most amazing locally owned nightlife and music venue CZAR BAR is
hosting an amazing pre-holiday shopping party on Wednesday 5-9pm.
Featuring:
Castoffs
Scarlett Garnet
Stella Replied
Lugnuts
Janay A
Popgun
1531 Grand Blvd KC MO 64108
http://www.czarbar.com/
.816.221.2244.
Making new pieces daily! NEW FOR WINTER-
Vest Jumpers (perfect for New Years Eve!)
Luscious wool and chenille hooded Wraps (reversible)
Entwining Circles Neck Warmer
Ballet High-Waisted Mini Wrap Skirt (reversible)
Mama Sized Totes
Coming this week:
Mystery Trouser Pant
Sparkly-Slinky-Slouchy open-backed Top
Party Short with built in Vest
(Keep ya’ guessing!)
Group Show at the New Studio! November 30, 2008
Also Featuring:
Take A Halliday, Amuck, Rocha Inc, Scarlett Garnet, Mia Rosado, Caked by Joe, Ornamental Petal, Dumb Kid Designs, & Cali Roberta
New Artwork by Jori Herbert! September 10, 2008
(2008 Jori C Herbert)
I just got this piece made for my man, Kevin. We love it!
Check out Jori’s blog featuring the piece:
http://www.joriandthejbird.blogspot.com/
YUM!
Leon Bakst, The Fire Bird, Tattoo? August 21, 2008
Leon Bakst was a 1910’s Russian costume and stage designer, most notably for the Ballets Russes.
I would love a tattoo like this going down my side. OR woman with free-flowing fabric wrapped all around her, to show my love for textiles. The fabric element of this photo is amazing (her dress, not as crazy about the texture of the fabric in her hair or to her side). She looks like a Gypsy. Lovely.
“Nymph in Narcisse
Inspiration: Vintage Doilys August 20, 2008
I just got a load of free vintage doilys, linens, handkerchiefs, and more off craigslist!
Gotta love the Craigslist, gold ole’ CG.
Got my man, my car, my dog, most my furniture.. what more could one want?
These old findings are really inspiring. The sheer hours someone spent creating these little beauties!
I had to pack them up to move, but will post pictures when I finally get to unpack everything, make a grand mess, and play with them.
I am thinking one-of-a-kind whimsical wedding dresses, with all different shades of white in one dress.
All overlapping, different patterns and sizes of circles.
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About Janay A: Designer; Creative. August 20, 2008
Hello!
I am Janay A, a fashion designer in Kansas City. This blog will show my new yummy works, journal fun fashion events, gab about inspiring and lifestyle trends… and be expressive about my daily adventures.
I am also model, dancer, learner, lover of all things creative.
My specialty is unique Wedding Gowns and Bridal Separates. I soon will post with photos of my works!
View my current bridal separates and women’s wear collections on etsy:
http://www.abstractpretty.etsy.com
A bit of history:
I have been freelance designing under the Janay A label in Kansas City for three years. I attended South West Missouri State University (now MSU in Springfield, Missouri) before graduating from Penn Valley (Kansas City) with an associates in Fashion. The collection has really taken off and is sold in 21 stores nationwide!
Now I am honing my efforts to create beautiful one of a kind gowns and expand my collection of bridal separates.
I live with my cat Myiette, dog Maili, and boyfriend Kevin. We are opening a design studio on 31st st. near Martini Corner in September! More about this awesome space, with photos, soon!
Enjoy!
Warmly
Janay A
