Under the Mistletoe with Henry: Our Official 2015 Christmas Card!

Henry and I are basically like the Kardashians, so this year we decided we needed to release an official holiday card. And here it is! 

I described my vision to Henry: mistletoe, a light blue background, and a red velvet strapless cocktail dress. He listened in eager wonder. I explored the idea of an outfit for him, but he politely declined. I think he realized that "over-designing" might dilute my artistic vision. 

Henry watched me frantically sew the red velvet dress. To be honest, I think he was a little dubious that I would finish it in time. 

I used pattern components from my upcoming book to make the base dress: a princess seam sweetheart strapless bodice and three-quarter circle skirt. Then I added a gathered sparkle tulle neckline, a bias overlay on the front bodice, and faux poinsettias and holly to the bustline. It's an easy way to make a '50s style "shelf bust" over a basic bodice and I'm planning to do some sort of tutorial on this. I spent lots of time arranging the flowers and taking selfies to check the placement.

At last the dress was finished and it was time for the big photo shoot. To be perfectly honest, Henry was a little reluctant once the camera was set up. I think nerves got the best of him. After a little warm up, we got some good shots . . .

And some not so great ones . . . 

But in the end, the choice was clear! 

And here it is, our very first official Christmas card.

Happy Holidays, all!