#though finding advice about hand embroidering AT ALL is really tough

[tmae3114]

so I've been looking up advice about hand embroidering on velvet for a project idea I had and I just found an article that was ABSOLUTELY written via AI because, well

[txtdreamss]

the boy who has everything// [f.w.]

Summary: Fred and you have been secretly going steady since the end of your fifth year. Now that he and George are making their grand exit to follow their dreams, you are struggling to come up with the perfect parting gift.

Inspired by: https://open.spotify.com/track/37hblhCnC5YzhDQH58Rgpi?si=0EISnLcTRE2mctlIXNObTA

Warnings: Angst, Malfoy!Reader, difficult home life, neglect mentioned

A/N: Currently going through a bit of a writers block that definitely came from school, but I thought something to do with my fav boy would help clear my mind. Just want some input from ya’ll, would you be interested in me starting to take requests? Also, low-key miss having mutuals before I decided to completely start over lol. Also, why does ‘each other’ look wrong to me? Like I am a native English speaker but the words just like sus...

Word Count: 2.2k

    The numerous differences between your childhood and your boyfriend’s were anything but subtle.

    Growing up, you felt as if you were a puppet being dangled for the world to see. Your mother, Narcissa Malfoy, was a complex woman; She obviously loved you very much. She held you, but never longer than it took to keep your tears at bay. Lucius Malfoy, on the other hand, was your father in blood only. His disdain for your lack of enthusiasm regarding blood purity was obvious. He had never once in your 18 years on Earth said ‘I love you’, or even a simple ‘I’m proud of you’. Until the day came where you were willing to take the dark mark and fight on behalf of Lord Voldemort, you would be nothing in your parents’ eyes besides a test child before Draco’s birth.

    Now, from what Fred had told you, his childhood was seemingly filled with sunshine and rainbows. He spent his summers wading in the pond near the Burrow, listening to the chirp of crickets and giggles of his numerous siblings. The entire family was open about showing their love in words and actions. Molly and Arthur, despite not being particularly rich, would give the clothes off their backs if it meant their children would never have to experience fear in any capacity. Fred always had a playmate, and never did he have to go through life fearing being expelled from the family home for his opinions.

    In the simplest of terms, Fred and you were complete opposites. Your similarities were found in the small things; the way you both were headstrong and loyal, and most of all...

   You both despised Filch. Fred had saved your butt from being caught in the halls after dark at the beginning of 5th year. He had decided then and there that despite the fact that you were in a different house, you simply had to be more than another member of the besmirched sacred twenty-eight. He knew from the second you were taking his outstretched hand in the dimly lit corridors that no matter what, you both were destined to be in each others’ lives. As he led you down a secret passage to the sound of Mrs. Norris’ eardrum-rattling mewls, you knew that the idea that he was just another impoverished ginger from the Weasley family was anything but true. Despite all the odds, that night was what laid down the foundations for you and Fred to become more than just another member of the family feud.

    Going on almost 2 years later, and your relationship had shifted from what was a slightly odd friendship to an unexpected relationship. Fred and George were now planning their grand escape for sometime after the Easter holidays, but you had a totally different date on your mind; April 1st.

•─────⋅☾ ☽⋅─────•

    “Oi, Weasley! You are a whole 42 seconds late!” You giggled, and Fred simply chuckled before dropping his books next to yours.

    It was rare for Fred to be on time, but he always made an effort (and usually succeeded) for you. Due to your obvious difference in house loyalty, the easiest way you found to spend time together was to carve out 2 afternoons each week to just bask in each others’ presence. Every Monday and Friday (unless there was a quidditch match), you would meet Fred in a secluded corner of the courtyard. The two of you would goof around study, snack on some treats from Honeydukes, or simply lie back and enjoy the sunset while talking about whatever came up.

    “So, anything big happen today, love?” Fred pecked you on the cheek quickly before dropping his head on your shoulder.

    “Just the usual. Apparently, my mother has finally given up on sending me howlers to come home.”

    “Y/N, mum already said she would love for you to come and stay with us during the holidays. You could come get a feel for the family over the holidays next week, and you would finally get to see what the Weasley-Twin-Birthday-Bonanza is like!”

    “You mean watch your aunt call you George for a whole evening while asking why you aren’t a prefect? Oh, I am so in.” The ginger made a face of mock offense while dramatically huffing into the shoulder of your robes. “That reminds me, will you finally cave and tell me what you want for your birthday?”

    “Love, I don’t want anything at all. Having my gal be there for the big one-eight is more than I could ever ask for.”

    Money was no issue; Your mother had continued sending you a small allowance, most likely in the hopes that it would sway you to ‘do the right thing’. Fred had always made an effort to get you a new charm for your bracelet for your birthday, which most likely cost him a few weeks in sales, so of course you wanted to return the favor and find the perfect gift. Last year, you had crocheted him a plush lion wearing a Gryffindor-themed scarf and he had loved it. For some reason, though, you couldn’t help but feel like you needed to find him something bigger and better for his final birthday as a Hogwarts student.

    “If you say so, Fred. Just don’t complain when you open my gift and it’s a pair of socks embroidered with little kittens.” Fred simply smiled and grabbed your hand that was previously tapping on the edge of your potions textbook.

    “I’ll wear them with pride.”

•─────⋅☾ ☽⋅─────•

    “Ginny, please tell me you have some amazing idea for a gift that I haven’t thought of....” Ginny grimaced as you sunk into the wooden chair, obviously aware that this meeting you had called in the library wasn’t just to give her some advice in terms of course selection.

    “Well... um... maybe you could bring him some muggle joke products? He really gets quite a kick out of them.” The apples of Ginny’s round cheeks became rosy, and she awkwardly rubbed at the back of her neck. “I mean, no offense, but couldn’t you just ask him?”

    “I tried that already. At this rate, he will be turning 19 before I figure out what to get him...” A puff of air escaped your chapped lips, and you once again found yourself nibbling on them in thought.

    “Well, here you are, big sis! Trying to figure out a gift for your git of a boyfriend?” Draco’s familiar greasy head popped out from behind the shelf before the young wizard marched up to you directly. “Do us all a favor, give him a little ‘life sans Y/N’... Merlin knows his parents probably don’t want a child of dark lord sympathizers at their shack anyways.”

    “Shut up, Draco...” Before Ginny could attempt to soothe your anger, you had up and left the room.

    “Psh, serves her right anyways...” A resounding smack was heard as Ginny wacked the platinum-headed goon on the back with the heaviest textbook lying nearby.

•─────⋅☾ ☽⋅─────•

    It wasn’t like doubt surrounding your relationship had never been an issue before. You often found yourself wondering if your company was putting Fred in danger, especially considering the current climate surrounding the resurgence in death eater activity. Fred had always tried to quell your worries, but sweet words and gentle kisses could only do so much. You and Fred knew how you both felt towards each other, but it seemed like the world was against you some days.

    Maybe Draco is right, he could get out of here and find a nice girl with normal parents to settle down with. After all, who wants to be known as the significant other of a Malfoy?

    A single tear slipped out of the corner of your eye, but you quickly dabbed it away with the edge of your sleeve to avoid grabbing attention from any of your housemates. The only perk you found that happened to come with being sorted into Slytherin like the rest of your family was that it was far enough away that you knew Fred wouldn’t find out if you spent any time sulking about your common room. For once, the slam of the heavy dungeon doors brought you comfort instead of a nagging chill.

    Fred isn’t like me. He has everything he could ever want... All I do is create more stress for him.

    Ignoring the harsh gaze of your housemates, you slipped into your dorm and found yourself slinking to bed without so much as slipping off your robes. Pulling the emerald comforters over your head, you let yourself slip into a restless sleep.

•─────⋅☾ ☽⋅─────•

    It was finally the day before the Easter holidays, and Hogwarts was more alive than ever. Young couples were spending their last day on campus wandering the corridors, groups of friends sat laughing and promising to write letters on what they each planned to bring back, and even some people that swore they were enemies seemed to be acting more hospitable. It must’ve been nice to not be spending the morning trying to calm your beating heart and convincing yourself that what you are doing isn’t wrong.

    “Hey Lovey! Have you finished packing yet?”

    “Well... not exactly, Freddie.” Fred’s face dropped, and he took your hand in his.

    “Is this about my aunt? I promise you won’t even have to say more than a simple ‘hello’ to her.” The mere mention of Fred’s Auntie Muriel almost cracked your tough exterior.

    “I can’t come home with you, Freddie. There is no way your family wants to spend their holiday break with the daughter of Lucius Malfoy. Look, I mean... here’s your gift. Just please promise to wait till you get to the station to open it.”

    Fred opened his mouth to argue, but you had already turned away as to avoid him seeing hot tears trail down your cheeks. You would have to be insane to go and willingly spend your holiday alone in the Malfoy Manor. There would be no family meals, especially now that all your parent’s energy went towards providing shelter for the death eaters. As you stumbled away to make your way back to your dorm to finish packing, Fred’s warm hand grasped your shoulder.

    “Please. Y/N, all I want is to be able to spend every day of this holiday mucking about with you. I know why you want to go home, and I’m telling you as your boyfriend and best friend to not do it. Just please, grant me a birthday wish... come home with me.”

    Fred drew you into his chest, and you found yourself clutching onto his striped button-up as if it would save your life. His larger hands rubbed across your back, and he pressed a small kiss on the top of your head.

    “Are you really sure about this, Fred? I wouldn’t want to make your mum and dad uncomfortable, or even your older brothers for that matter.”

    “Y/N, my love, the light of my life, just come home. If you can manage to get George to like you more than he likes me, I promise you the rest of my family will love you.” His signature smirk spread on his freckled face, and he pressed a quick peck on the tip of your nose.

    “Now, let’s go get you packed, Y/N.”

•─────⋅☾ ☽⋅─────•

    “Oi, Fred, what’s in the box?” George elbowed his brother while somewhat attempting to be quiet. The train ride was almost over, and you had resorted to using the seat opposite to the twins as a temporary napping spot.

    “I nearly forgot I had it on me to be quite honest. Do you think I should open it even though she is coming with us?”

    “She said to open it at the station, but we are obviously past that point, so please just open it!” George bounced in his seat, and Fred gave in to temptation. He unwrapped the ribbon holding the small box shut, opened the lid, and discovered a dainty chain with a circular pendant hanging on the end.

    “Is that a size reference for your-”

    “George! Shut up, you dimwit. I think it might be a mirror-glass type thing, but I genuinely have no idea...”

    “Freddie, bring it to your eye and look through it.” The twins both jumped as you rolled over, clearly no longer asleep.

    Fred brought the pendant to his right eye, squinted, and his immediate smile couldn’t be contained. When held at the right distance, he could see a small picture of you and him from your first date at Hogsmeade. He was much more lanky and awkward looking, and you were almost matched in height. The smile you both shared in the photo warmed his heart to no end, and Fred found himself having to gather his emotions from the memories he had of that day. 

    The ginger all but leapt to your side of the cart, and he wrapped his arm around your still-sleepy figure. He squeezed you tightly to his side before leaning in to whisper something in your ear without allowing George to hear.

    “It’s perfect, my love.”

•─────⋅☾ ☽⋅─────•

~Post-fic A/N: I hope this was a good read for you guys! I am definitely on the verge of passing out, but proofreading is superior to sleep (jk). Anyways, if anything comes to mind, don’t hesitate to reach out or send in an ask! I love interacting with you guys, even if it is just a brief hello! :) ~

[suchalonelysunflower]

“A Great Place to Start a New Story” (m.c)

Pairing: Michael Clifford X Reader 

Summary: Michael is at his best friend wedding feeling lonely when a stranger comes up to him and gives him one of the best advices he’s ever heard. 

Warnings: None other than mentions of Alcohol, a few bad words and mentios of death. Also, some grammar mistakes (Not as many as before but still, English is not my first language, I’m sorry) 

Word Count: 2.5 K 

Author’s Note: Hello! Here you have another soft Michael fic with a neutral reader, I’ve been trying to incorporate that more into my writing lately so if you have any suggestions please don’t doubt in contacting me 😊 If you want to read more of 5SOS you can visit my recent Ashton fic, Luke fic and the second part of the Entangled Series ft. Calum and Harry S ✨ You can find the rest of my work HERE. Thank you so much, remember that reblogs, comments and feedback are always welcome! I love to hear from you guys 💕 Hope you like it and Happy reading 🦋💕

Michael swore that if he sees one more happy couple coming his way he was going to break something, a thing that was easier said than done, considering that he was at the wedding reception of his best friend and he would probably have to pay for it afterwards.

He watched bitterly as the couples slowly danced a few feet in front of him, swaying along to some love song he’s never heard of. In the middle of the crowd he could easily spot Luke and his partner, holding each other tightly as they dance like there’s nobody else in the room, this was their moment, the beginning of a new chapter in their lives and Michael was happy for them. But he couldn’t deny that hint of jealousy that tugged on his heart.

Falling in love was not a top priority for him. Yes, it is nice to have someone to care about and for them to care about you, but with his busy life he always felt like he didn’t have the time to actually care about that part of his life, ignoring it most of the time. Only when the RSVP to Luke’s wedding came in the mail did he realize how lonely he actually felt. A sense of longing came over him, He thought that by now he would’ve met the person he was going to spend the rest of his life with. His better half, soulmate or whatever, but it seems that is just not meant to be for him. And it’s not like he hasn’t fallen in love at some point, he had a few relationships over the years, but they always ended the same way: Either a heartbreak or a song written about him.

Michael sighed deeply, bringing his glass to his lips only to find in discontent that it was already empty. He cursed through gritted teeth and slammed the glass on the table with more force than he intended to. 

“Tough night?” Asked a voice next to him. 

Michael turned his head to the side and found an old lady sitting next to him. He didn’t notice her at first, or at all to be honest. He knew, however, that she was not at the table when they first sat down, so he assumed she just made herself a place when her friends were out dancing with their partners not too far away. 

The lady seemed nice enough, very elegant for an evening wedding. She had some pearl earrings that matched her necklace, and for the looks of it, they were completely real. Her hair was pinned up with too much hairspray and her eyeshadow was very bright. She wore a nice navy dress embroidered with patches of lace that seemed out of date but she wore it in such a fashionable way that you wouldn’t even question it. 

She smiled at Michael and looked at him up and down “You are not in love with one pair of the couple, now are you blondie?” 

Michael’s mouth dropped with the lady’s remark. Part of him offended at such an assumption and the other just very impressed by the boldness of the mysterious old woman. 

“Oh, close your mouth, dear. Flies will go in there” Michael obeyed “So, are you?” 

“No!” Michael scoffed, rolling his eyes. Who was this lady? “I’m the best man, Luke’s bandmate” 

The woman hummed “Then why are you sitting here like it’s the great depression? Believe I know what that’s like, I lived through it” She said, even though she didn’t look a day over 70.

Michael sighed “Not a big fan of weddings, I guess” He stated, looking at his empty glass. 

“Is it that or you’re just not a fan of love in general?” She inquired. Michael averted his gaze on purpose, wondering why the hell was he still talking to this person?

“You know,” Said the lady after a few moments of silence “Weddings are a great place to start a story” 

“Huh?” Michael mumbled. 

“A lot of great stories came from weddings” She smiled “Plus, it is a great place to meet new single people” She said, raising her eyebrows suggestively. Michael cocked an eyebrow to her in response “Anyone caught your eye?” 

He shook his head “Wasn’t really looking” 

“Ah, but that’s how you find them” She placed her hand over MIchael’s. The wrinkled, yet soft hand patted his in a kind way, and for him it was an act of comfort he didn’t know he needed “But, what could I know? I’m just an old lady in the middle of a party” Michael opened his mouth to say something but she interrupted him again “Don’t you think it’s time to fill up that bad boy again?” She said, pointing to his empty glass and then the open bar. 

Michael sighed again, looked at the old lady and nodded, already getting up and making his way to the bar. 

He leaned his elbows into the bar, thoughts running through his head trying to understand what the woman just said. Was it so obvious how unhappy he was with his loneliness? or is it just a custom for old ladies to get all up in your business when you are a complete stranger to them? 

He placed his thumb and index fingers between his eyes, trying to let the frustrations go and actually enjoy the party and celebrate his best friends’ love. But, then again, it was easier said than done. 

“A whisky on the rocks, please” A voice said next to him, making him snap his head to his side. 

You were standing there, looking absolutely done with life as you ordered your drink. You had one arm resting on the bad while the other went to the back of your head, rubbing your neck as you stretched it from side to side. Tilting your head to the side you catch Michael’s stare, you glared.

“What?” You asked in a sarcastic chuckle “Think is too early for a heavy drink?” 

Michael blinked a few times, surprised by the sound of your voice directed at him “Uh, no, actually. I was just about to get the same thing” 

Michael signaled the bartender and they nodded. You sighed, relaxing a little bit more around him. 

“Fun party, isn’t it?” You asked. 

Michael scoffed “Depends on who you’re asking” He said, pointing to the couples dancing in the middle of the room. 

You laughed “Oh, seems like someone here shares my kind of humor” You turned to him, extending your hand to greet him properly “I’m Y/N.”

He shook your hand and smiled “Michael” 

“You’re Luke’s bandmate, are you?” 

“I am, and you are..?” He inquired. 

“Oh, I’m here for the other side of the wedding party. Didn’t really know Luke very well until he put a ring on my cousin’s finger” Michael chuckled and you did too “They are truly in love, aren’t they?” You said, looking at the happy couple.

The bartender placed your drinks on the bar and walked away. Michael nodded as he grabbed his glass and took a sip of the burning beverage “Only a fool would think otherwise. You should’ve seen Luke when he first got the ring. I’ve never seen him so happy before” 

You hummed “Yeah,” You took a sip of your drink and looked at Michael “What about you, rockstar?” Michael smiled into his drink at the sound of the nickname “Is there a special someone in your life?” 

Michael shook his head “Not really the best at finding love, apparently. Given that I’m the only single person in the room” He said, bitterly. 

“Well, not the only one” You said, lifting your drink so you could clinked your glass with his. You both laughed. 

The conversation between you two went smoothly as you get to know each other better. Michael was actually surprised that you indeed shared a lot of things in common besides your sense of humor and relationship status. You talked about music, video games you played, the annoyance you both shared towards certain people and even finding out that you were both the class clown that was a little too shy to become the main troublemaker in school.

You talked all night. You mentioned things about your passions and your career and Michael listened with actual interest to the whole thing, even asking some questions about it, making you smile and ramble on and on about them, and he really seemed to like the way your eyes shined whenever they met his. Michael shared with you details about what is really like living as a musician, touring and the interactions they had with fans, stating how it was amazing but at the same time very draining and consuming. 

“Guess that’s why I don’t find myself in situations where I can actually meet people and go out on dates or whatever” 

“Well, that didn’t seem like a problem to your friends over there” You said, pointing out at his bandmates “What’s holding you back?” 

Michael looked at you, suddenly aware of your close proximity. He didn’t know when it happened that your arm was so close to his that they were almost touching, but he didn’t mind one bit. 

“Maybe love is just not a fan of me, contrary at what that lady said” You looked at him quizzically and he just chuckled at your confused expression “There was this old lady who came up to me and asked me if I was afraid of love and then started to tell me about how ‘weddings are the best place to meet people and start new stories” He said, trying to imitate the lady’s voice.  

You laughed “Ah, it seems to me that you met Aunt Lydia” 

“You know her?” 

“Yes! She’s actually our great aunt, and don’t worry, she does that every time we are at a wedding.” You chuckled “She thinks that because she met her husband at a wedding that everyone would do the same” 

You laughed again and, seemingly in that instant, Michael decided he wanted to hear more of that laugh “Well, maybe she’s not wrong” He said, making you blush. He decided he liked that.

“Hey, Y/N?” He asked, suddenly very shy.

“Yes, rockstar?” 

“Wanna dance?” 

Michael extended his hand as an invitation, a dashing smile crossing his face with ease as you took it and let him guide you to the dance floor. 

The rest of the group was surprised to see Michael dancing, given that he was never one of the ‘life of the party’ kinda guy. But when they saw him smiling at you while attempting to slow dance, they just knew. 

You danced together until your feet practically begged you for some kind of break, making your way outside of the venue so you could sit on one of the few benches they had in the patio. You rested your head on Michael’s shoulder, not really saying much as you both looked at the sky. 

This was not the outcome Michael would have expected from tonight, however he didn’t find it so terrible or scary. He only met you a few hours ago, but something inside him was telling him that you needed to be part of his life. This felt right, so right even that he didn’t want to let go of you just yet. 

“I had fun” You said, breaking the silence after a while. 

“Me too” Michael said, softly grabbing your hand and starting to play with your fingers “Kinda don’t want it to end” 

You hummed, tilting your head so you could look him in the eyes “Then don’t let it end” 

Michael’s green eyes were set on yours, noses almost brushing as you came closer and closer, taking each other’s faces from this new angle. Michael’s hand rested softly on your cheek, cupping it as his eyes traveled from your lips to your gaze. 

“How will I know that this is not a dream and you will not disappear when I open my eyes?” He said in a hushed tone, forehead resting against yours. 

“Kiss me and you’ll find out” You whispered back. Holding your breath as he brought you into a kiss. 

Everything felt just right. 

*****************************************************

The quiet boy stared at the happy couples with jealousy. Weddings were never his thing but he couldn’t miss his sister’s wedding, even if he wanted to. 

He sighed deeply into his drink as he thought love was playing him a cruel joke, him being the only single person within a five mile ratio. 

“What’s with the face, Robert?” Asked a voice behind him. 

“Oh, hey uncle Mike” The young man said, not really knowing when his uncle came and sat next to him “Guess I’m just not in the mood” 

Michael hummed, raising his hairy eyebrows and drawing even more wrinkles in his forehead “Feeling like love is not for you then” 

Robert looked at him confused “How do you-”

“I was once young and stupid you know? Just like you,” Robert rolled his eyes “Hey, I’m trying to teach you something here, boy”

“Sorry”

“I also thought that love was not for me and I found myself in your same position, in your grandpa’s wedding feeling absolutely miserable” Michael’s eyes gleamed at the memory, a smile spreading on his face “And then I met the love of my life not even ten minutes later” 

Michael still remembers that night like it was yesterday, even though it happened around fifty years ago. He remembers what you were wearing and the jokes that made you laugh. He still knows all the words to the songs you danced since that night, never passing a chance to slow dance with you or to give you the love and appreciation that you needed. He found out what you liked the most and what you hated, slowly learning to become one team of two individuals, but to be honest, he knew he was yours the moment he kissed you that night, thanking your great aunt every passing moment of his life, especially the night where he proposed. The sound of you saying yes through a teary smile still brings him all the joy he could ever need. 

The years he had next to you were the best years of his life. He felt blessed to have been able to enjoy all those moments by your side, keeping his promise of loving you and making you happy until your last day on earth. Whenever he thought of you after the day you left, sadness does not cloud his mind like before. You were his partner, his soulmate and he will always remember how bright you were in every single aspect, your memory brought him the comfort he needed, knowing you were waiting for him and that right now you were watching over him with a grin on your face, knowing exactly what he was about to say next. 

“And, who knows? After all, weddings are a great place to start a new story”

[beezeeart]

What should I be looking for with a sewing machine? I want to be able to make nice details like what you would see in anime/pony like eyes but idk what I should be looking for?

It really depends on your end goal. How big do you want your plushies?Do you want to be able to do both sewing and embroidery? Or are you okay with just sewing? If you want to embroider, do you have the space and money for two stand alone machines or would you prefer one you can change. Is this something you want to be a huge investment or just something to get you started?

Incoming gigantic post...

Some features I consider a necessity to use a machine enjoyably:Automatic Threader: This is a mechanism that helps you thread the sewing needle. Saves a ton of time and frustration. Automatic Thread Cutter: Cutting my thread with the touch of a button is a wonderful feature that saves time and in the long run might even save you some thread. Top Loading / Drop Bobbin: Being able to drop a bobbin in without fiddling to get it in place on the underside or side of the machine is another time saver and reduces frustration.Clear Bobbin Case or Low Bobbin Warning: I like a clear case to see when I’m about to run out of bobbin thread so I don’t waste my time sewing nothing. If the case isn’t clear, I need a low bobbin warning so I can change it before I run out in the middle of something. Both is ideal. Walking Foot: Not necessarily a part of the machine, but if there is no built in walking foot system like the Pfaff’s IDT, I need to be able to attach one. Features I love, but don’t consider a requirement for a machine: Automatic Features: When I hit my pedal, my foot automatically lowers, my needle starts to sew and sews a few stitches forward and back to secure the thread. When I stop sewing, the foot automatically lifts, but the needle remains down, so I can rotate the fabric. When I start sewing again, the foot lowers, but it knows not to stitch forward and back. When I reach the end of a line, I hit the reverse button and it automatically sews a few stitches forward and back, then cuts my thread for me and raises the presser foot and needle. That’s a TON of stuff my machine does without me doing much more than what I’d normally be doing. It saves a bunch of time. Knee Lift: A knee lift is nice for hands free sewing. Good Lighting: I can always use a desk lamp, but I prefer to have the surface of my sewing machine bright already since it can be difficult to position a lamp.

If you don’t need embroidery, I’m pretty in love with the Singer Heavy Duty. I don’t think this one has a thread cutter, but it’s great for what it is. A super basic workhorse that can handle a ton of sewing. It’s a nice mix of an industrial and a home sewing machine. My first pick for a beginner sewing/embroidery combo would be the brother se400. It’s got both sewing and embroidery capabilities, though a small hoop size for embroidery. Only 4x4 inches. This is good for individual eyes or pocket sized in the hoop plushies, but not so good for larger areas. It’s my go to pick for beginners in plush making and at only $295 it’s a steal. Even if you don’t really use the embroidery, it packs in a lot of great features and a pretty good build for a largely plastic, entry level machine. If you want to jump a step up with embroidery, but no sewing, the Brother PE770 is a good option. It’s got a 5x7 hoop size and a USB port for inputting designs. After this things are a bit tough for me to recommend. I jumped straight from a beginner machine to an advanced one. My current machine is a Pfaff Performance 5.0. I love Pfaff’s for plush making because the IDT system makes sewing curves delightful. I can sew an entire bat ear without raising my foot to rotate the fabric, something that would have taken me a few stops and starts before. It also feeds both top and bottom fabric evenly and reduces slipping (if you ever see my sewing videos, you’ll notice I rarely pin things unless it’s a large area or I need to hold something down). For reference, this is a $2,600 sewing machine. I’d recommend for a mid range sewing only machine to look into used Pfaff machines or earlier models (or both). I think the Ambition line still includes the IDT system and is much more reasonably priced. On the higher end of the embroidery line, I prefer the Husqvarna Vikingmachines with what I’ve tried out, but I really don’t enjoy embroidering much. My best advice for purchasing a machine is to go to a dealer. Most stores like Joanns only carry one brand or a handful of brands they have a deal with. High end lines tend to sell only through authorized dealers so you can’t readily find those online unless they are used. A specialized sewing machine store will also let you see, touch, and try all the machines. Good luck asking a Walmart clerk to open up a box so you can sew a test plush on one of their machines. My favorites are stores that carry lots of brands so you can try them all in one place.

[kevinmoyer]

French-Inspired Wedding with Dessert Reception :: Tara & Dan

Photography by Natalie Probst.

If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed planning, it’s so helpful to look to other couples who took an approach that was outside the box. Tara and Dan chose a loft space for their reception, decorated it with meaningful touches inspired by their UK heritage and European travels, and split their reception in two. First came a vintage tea party with family, followed by cocktails and dancing with friends. The one person missing from the celebrations was Tara’s dad, who was in Hospice at the time (and has since passed away.) The way she chose to honor him with butterflies is absolutely beautiful – be sure not to miss it.

Tara told us, “during our courtship, Dan and I have written each other hundreds of letters, cards, poems and little notes to one another. I wanted our invitations to showcase this and feel like a love letter to our guests. Emily Rose Ink did an incredible job bringing this vision to life. Our invitations arrived to our guests in the form of a calligraphed letter, folded into thirds and tucked inside a cover featuring a watercolor floral illustration and one of Dan’s favorite quotes by Maya Angelou. It was sealed with a wax seal and delivered inside a calligraphed blue-gray envelope with vintage stamps.”

The Ceremony

Why did you choose this location for your ceremony? Dan and I got engaged in winter at the observatory at Northwestern University. We went back during the spring and stumbled upon the Shakespeare Garden, which was right next to where we got engaged. We knew it was perfect. It ticked all the dream location boxes; hidden, lush, romantic and reminiscent of a special English garden I spent many sacred moments in during my time in England. You can even see the Northwestern Theological Center in the distance which looks like a small castle. It is a quaint, hidden little spot. Also, we live in Evanston and it was very special to have our ceremony in our community.

Your ceremony in three words. Romantic, timeless, sentimental.

Who officiated your ceremony? How did you choose him/her? Dan’s childhood friend, Mark, officiated our wedding. He has married several other couples and is a dear friend to us. He was the first and only person we thought of.

Did you include any traditions in your ceremony? Yes. I thought it would be interesting if we could incorporate our Irish heritage (as well as my love of English/Scottish history) into the ceremony. I have heard of and seen a few handfasting ceremonies and thought it was terribly romantic. During my research, I learned that this used to be a fairly common practice when marrying in those parts of the world, and was recognized as a legally binding contract until the early 1900s.The tradition has come to be interpreted literally, as the symbolic act of ‘tying the knot‘. It was special to have my mom participate in the handfasting, tying the ribbons for us.

See Tara & Dan’s handfasting ceremony script right here.

What were your vows like? We wrote our own vows to one another.

Tara: “I never knew my life could be THIS full… and here today, surrounded by our family and closest friends, in this idyllic secret garden, I get to marry my best friend. Thank you for seeing me and encouraging me during some of the most trying and overwhelming times in my life. Thank you for never giving up on me, even though many times I wanted to give up on myself. Thank you for loving me so fiercely and fully that I feel it every minute of every day. This life is glorious and I am so proud and honored to become your wife today.”

Dan: “I have been so excited for this day to come, the day that I can begin to call you my wife. Everyday I spend with you makes me appreciate my existence a little more. When I think if you, I think of home. You are more worthy of love than you know and I feel pride to have been chosen by you. Thank you for accepting me for who I am. Thank you for challenging me to be the best person I can be. Thank you for believing in me when I wasn’t sure how to believe in myself. You are my person. You are my life. I cannot wait to spend the rest of my days with you by my side.”

Did you include any traditions in your wedding? I wore earrings left to me by my paternal grandmother (something old) as well as my maternal grandmother’s star sapphire necklace (something blue) and diamond watch, given to me by my Mom as a wedding gift (something new). I also had my something borrowed, her embroidered hankie which came in handy during our vows!

What was your favorite thing about your wedding ceremony? Oh man. That’s a tough question. I have a few! Marrying such an incredible, strong, empathetic, thoughtful man is top of the list. I also loved the handfasting. // We didn’t have chairs (apart from for a few guests who needed them) so everyone was tucked in closely and it felt very intimate with everyone so close. I loved our ceremony music. // We had a two-piece (violin, cello) and it was so beautiful. It set such a lovely tone for the ceremony.

Dan’s favorite part was “watching Tara walk down the aisle and saying our vows to one another.”

The Reception

Why did you choose this location for your reception? DL Loft lent itself perfectly to our theme. Designed by Debi Lilly of A Perfect Event, the space features sourced objects directly from France, gorgeous natural light and all the charm of a French pied-a-terre. Interestingly, the Loft had a smaller capacity than we had guests on our list so we decided to break up our list and have two smaller cocktail parties, with an hour break in between. Everyone thought we were nuts for trying to do this but it actually worked out perfectly. We loved DL Loft so much that we just had to make it work.

What inspired you when you were planning your wedding? Travel, fashion, interior design, cinematography, family heirlooms, greenery, topiaries & butterflies. My travels abroad absolutely inspired the aesthetic for our wedding as I attempted to add little European touches here and there. I was also inspired by a few of movies I watched during the planning process: The Secret Garden, Cinderella and Marie Antoinette. Color helped us tie all of our wedding elements together. French blue, regal gold, classic white and lush greens can be seen throughout the details, food and decor.

In keeping with the heirloom element of our rehearsal dinner, we incorporated small treasures that I have been collecting from our loved ones to honor those who have contributed to our lives, and also make the loft space feel like home. You will also see my dad’s old cameras, my grandpa’s hand-etched glass boxes and family photos throughout the space. From there, I filled in the space with my own brass decor, vintage pieces and tons of candle sticks. I also used butterflies throughout the space as a way of paying tribute to my dad, which became a meaningful and special symbol to us while he was in Hospice. Seeing them coming out of the sweets table arrangement made me feel like he was there, sharing in the joy of the day.

Please tell us about any other special details or moments from your reception. Being in the wedding industry has its perks and I knew right away that I wanted to work with Toni Patisserie in designing our sweets table. Drawing inspiration from Marie Antoinette, I envisioned three towers of goodies as the focal point of the table. We decided on macarons (my all time favorite, no matter how trendy they may be), meringues, and a croquembouche, all in white with golden butterflies. During tea time, we served: cookies with dried flowers, lemon blue berry tarts, mini eclairs (my Dad’s favorite dessert) and Cinderella blue petit fours with a fondant wax seal. Guests also had the options of our seafood station, passed finger sandwiches and brunch bites. Guests who arrived later feasted on charcuterie, passed apps such as Feast & Imbibes famous pulled pork cigars, wagyu beef sliders and lobster bisque and sipped on signature cocktails, wine and champagne.

Are there any DIY details you’d like to tell us about? I did invest a lot of time in collecting heirloom items from my loved ones, many of whom have passed, to use in the decor. Since our reception was in a space that replicates a pied-a-terre, it made more sense to have items you might find in someone’s home (framed photos, family china, little trinkets, etc.) to dress the space than rentals. I felt a strong sense of connection to our day doing this, both in collecting the items and then seeing them displayed in the space. Plus, this saved us a ton of money that we were able to invest in other things.

Tara told us, “another highlight of our day was having my brother, in his Army dress blues, walk me down the aisle and deliver a fantastic speech. We have gotten close following the death of my father and it was special to have him by my side, in every sense.”

What was your favorite moment or part of the reception? Taking a break with Dan in between our cocktail parties was much needed and really lovely. The day went so fast and it was very important for us to take a moment away and soak it all in. I also loved seeing how our vision came together. It was overwhelming and emotional to share the experience with our friends & family. People kept saying, “Everything is so you two!” which made me very happy. I didn’t want to decorate for the sake of decorating or celebrate in a typical venue space. I wanted it to feel like us, so hearing our guests say that was confirmation that it did!

What was the best advice you received as a bride? Take a few moments during the wedding to soak it all in because it goes by so fast. And it’s true! Be present and go with the flow.

What was your first dance song? Father/daughter or mother/son dance? For our first party it was Etta James’s At Last, and for our second party it was I Will Follow You Into the Dark by Death Cab for Cutie. We decided not do dances with parents, though I did display a very special framed photo of my Dad and I dancing at my aunt’s wedding.

If you had it to do over again, is there anything you would do differently? Nothing.

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