This card was inspired by Miss Anne Lowe and Mrs. Ruth Alexander. Strange names to you, but to me, they meant the world. Miss Anne and "Nan" were the two women who created the wedding gown for Miss Jacqueline Bouvier when she married a young senator named John F. Kennedy. As an African-American designer, it shocked the fashion world that a young social-elite would have the most important gown of her life (and as it later turns out, one of the most popular wedding gowns in history) created by a black woman. By the time I came to know Miss Anne and Nan, they lived in a modest house in Queens, NY. Nan was my babysitter and she was also caretaker to Miss Anne who had by then gone blind in both eyes. I have very fond memories of playing with my Godsister and Godbrother (grandchildren of Nan, hence the nickname) and their cousin on and around Miss Anne. We played on her bed, cuddled with her, talked to her, etc. and she knew each of us by voice and footsteps in the hall. You can find more information on Miss Anne Lowe at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ann_Lowe or http://societyweddingsonlinemagazine.blogspot.com/2008/02/its-february-and-black-history-month.html
This card reminds me of their place in history, although not widely known or appreciated for the accomplishment. It features a dress on an old-fashioned dress form, along with matching shoe, purse and hatbox. The purse is embellished with a heart "clasp." The squiggles on the pink background remind me of thread in a sewing machine or needle. Done in all white, the card would make an ideal wedding shower invitation or wedding-day card. Other color options are also available. This card measures 6 1/2" x 5" and includes envelope.
No comments:
Post a Comment