Continuing my imaginative inspiration from last week’s opening ceremonies, I created two neutral color board, which if you know me, it a bit more of a challenge. I love, love, love color. Take the color away and I am left with a neutral palate that I am still mastering. So here’s a glimpse at the more subtle earthly combinations. With a splash of color – but it’s really in the mix – check out the First Nation’s logo!

(Couple, kaftan, mosaic table, bridesmaid, dragon fly hairpin, umbrellas, antler table, shoes, Inukshuk favor, red door)

While the images are beautiful, I cannot forget to share with you cultural knowledge within the boards. The rock formations, which you’ve seen on as the template for the Vancouver Olympic Games, draw their history from the aboriginal inhabitants of Canada. These people-like figures of rock are called Inukshuk. The Inukshuk, which means “likeness of person,” was first used by the Inuit People to mark trails, indicate caches of food, and locate nearby settlements as well as good places to hunt or fish. Most of the Canadian arctic is dominated year round by permafrost and only has a few natural landmarks which could be used for orientation, that’s why Inukshuk are used as directional marker.

The rock Inukshuk embodies the spirit and persistence of the Inuit who live and flourish in Northern Canada, one of the world harshest environments. Inukshuk’s represent strength, leadership and motivation. The Inukshuk makes a fantastic favor as a homage to the First Nation people of Canada.

(bride, First Nation logo, place setting, cakes, centerpiece, table numbers, Inukshuks, rock table setting, bridesmaids, flowers, shoe, bride)