Well - it's happened to many before me and I've always wondered how it was done. But now I'll have to figure it out for myself....Nick got laid off yesterday. No severence, no nothing - just done.
We're in decent spirits as of now - I'm just channeling all the strength I have in order to pass some on to him and keep his head up. Hopefully unemployment comes through with some decent checks and he finds something (if not just freelance work) in a decent timeframe.
I'd be lying if I wasn't totally overwhelmed with selfish thoughts about the wedding. I'm trying really hard to not turn to those complaints because it's so incredibly selfish - I'm obviously more worried about other things being paid for before it. But I'm also scared that at some point...it's all going to come to a head and we're both going to realize "uh...WAIT a minute! we no longer can afford the wedding we once conceived of." I'm scared to even open up my budget spreadsheet and cut out the dollar amounts that we were expecting his paychecks to give towards the big day. Not to mention the fact that that employer had offered to pay for our honeymoon airfare...oye.
Nonetheless - I'm lucky to have an amazing man like him, and I'm going to give him all the love and support I can and we'll figure it out and get through it together. At least we have each other to lean on.
Save The Dates
12.09.2009
Have I mentioned lately how much FUN being engaged is? :)
But I have to admit...the time suck that is engagement is a true story – totally not mythical…I promise! Nonetheless – here’s a quick update on the wedding!
And for your DIY and paper pleasure…here are our save the dates!
I had originally budgeted $150 for 100 STDs...here's how it came out:
But I have to admit...the time suck that is engagement is a true story – totally not mythical…I promise! Nonetheless – here’s a quick update on the wedding!
- We’ve set the date for May 29, 2010
- We have a church, a reception site and almost a photographer.
- We’re having a bridal party of 4 bridesmaids and 4 groomsmen, my daughter (more on this to come) as the flower girl and no ring bearer.
- We’re having a live band (which I’m SO excited about!)
- We’re hopefully having a photobooth and a popcorn buffet (which I’m also SO excited about!)
And for your DIY and paper pleasure…here are our save the dates!
Nick working hard...
Me working...hard?
The Cricut that my FSIL bought us (SO SWEET!) working really hard!
The outside - it's just a two fold card with clear tabs on all three sides keeping it together.
The final product! Nick designed the whole thing (with my help, of course) and I did the rings on the Cricut and we assembled!
Oh - and check out the monogram on the return address label.
I had originally budgeted $150 for 100 STDs...here's how it came out:
- White cardstock from Archiver's - 50 sheets at $0.49 each during a buy one get one sale = $12.25
- Green cardstock from Archiver's for embellishment - 20 sheets at $0.49 each during a buy one get one sale = $4.90
- Address labels from Office Depot - $12
- Return address labels from Office Depot - $0.67 (they were on clearance!)
- Tab stickers from Office Depot - $2.99
- Scrapbooking glue for embellishments from Office Depot - $3.99
- Cricut machine - Free (gift from FSIL while on super clearance on Black Friday)
- Printed on home inkjet - Free
- Postage - 75 first class stamps (we hand delivered a few to our co-workers, etc) = $33
Will You Be My Bridesmaid?
11.20.2009
I wanted to make sure and ask my bridesmaids in a creative and fun way so I made some cards for them. My bridesmaids will consist of my best friend Katherine (maid of honor), my great friend Rachel, my sister-in-law Hope and my future sister-in-law Melissa. DB is having his brother as his best man, one of his good friends and my two brothers as his groomsmen.
Here are the cards I made...
I bought 3 pieces of white (there's a little grain in it) cardstock from Archivers for $.49/each and they were buy one-get one so I paid a total of $.74. Then I bought some fabric from JoAnn's for like $3 of the green that I love. The plan is black and white with a green accent. It's like a kiwi green so I wanted to include it on the card so that the girls could undersatnd the shade. I made a skirt out of the fabric and glued it onto the card. I drew the boddess of the dress and added a black ribbon bow from ribbon from JoAnn's that I paid $2 for. I found some cute poems online and printed those inside the cards (there are different ones for each girl to convey different relationships).
Here are the cards I made...
I bought 3 pieces of white (there's a little grain in it) cardstock from Archivers for $.49/each and they were buy one-get one so I paid a total of $.74. Then I bought some fabric from JoAnn's for like $3 of the green that I love. The plan is black and white with a green accent. It's like a kiwi green so I wanted to include it on the card so that the girls could undersatnd the shade. I made a skirt out of the fabric and glued it onto the card. I drew the boddess of the dress and added a black ribbon bow from ribbon from JoAnn's that I paid $2 for. I found some cute poems online and printed those inside the cards (there are different ones for each girl to convey different relationships).
Award!
11.17.2009
Chaotic Bliss honored me with the Sugar Doll award! What a sweet blogger! She has lots of inspiration and fun over at her blog – go check her out!
So here are my 10 quirky things about me:
1. I prefer my pop to be warm. And I love it even more if it's flat. mmm.
2. I pick up lyrics to songs at an unusually fast rate. I could hear a song twice and know all the lyrics. I'd love to go on one of those lyric shows and show off my talent! :)
3. I’m seriously addicted to caffeine. If I don’t have some within the first hour of waking up my whole day is ruined with an awful headache!
4. I have a “midget” toe on my right foot that is noticeably shorter than the rest of my toes.
5. I could eat pizza for every meal, every day of my life. No problem.
6. I’m a terrible whistler despite my brass-playing talents.
7. I hate the sound of a vacuum. When I was growing up my mom would always wait till I wasn't home to vacuum so I wouldn't have to endure it.
8. I have dated a guy from every branch of the service (totally not on purpose, lol)
9. I wore a fake engagement ring when I was pregnant in hopes of avoiding some stares.
10. I have always wanted to be a winter bride even though I live in Minnesota. Oh well - I don't want to wait that long now that I'm actually engaged!
Here’s who I’m passing this fab award on to!
1. Seaside Smitten
2. That Officer’s Wife
3. The Indecisive Bride
4. Cupcake Wedding
5. Soon to be Lindsay May
So now you have some new reading material with these lovely blogs. Thanks again, Chaotic Bliss!!
So here are my 10 quirky things about me:
1. I prefer my pop to be warm. And I love it even more if it's flat. mmm.
2. I pick up lyrics to songs at an unusually fast rate. I could hear a song twice and know all the lyrics. I'd love to go on one of those lyric shows and show off my talent! :)
3. I’m seriously addicted to caffeine. If I don’t have some within the first hour of waking up my whole day is ruined with an awful headache!
4. I have a “midget” toe on my right foot that is noticeably shorter than the rest of my toes.
5. I could eat pizza for every meal, every day of my life. No problem.
6. I’m a terrible whistler despite my brass-playing talents.
7. I hate the sound of a vacuum. When I was growing up my mom would always wait till I wasn't home to vacuum so I wouldn't have to endure it.
8. I have dated a guy from every branch of the service (totally not on purpose, lol)
9. I wore a fake engagement ring when I was pregnant in hopes of avoiding some stares.
10. I have always wanted to be a winter bride even though I live in Minnesota. Oh well - I don't want to wait that long now that I'm actually engaged!
Here’s who I’m passing this fab award on to!
1. Seaside Smitten
2. That Officer’s Wife
3. The Indecisive Bride
4. Cupcake Wedding
5. Soon to be Lindsay May
So now you have some new reading material with these lovely blogs. Thanks again, Chaotic Bliss!!
Pssst...Giveaway!
11.12.2009
If you don't already follow iDiY - go run there now! Full of inspiration and great projects
And even better - they're giving away a L Letterpress via Lifestyle Crafts!
What more could a good DIY, budget-friendly bride ask for?! GO!
And even better - they're giving away a L Letterpress via Lifestyle Crafts!
What more could a good DIY, budget-friendly bride ask for?! GO!
From my Inbox - FIVE Event Center
11.11.2009
FIVE Event Center is the hottest new venue in downtown Minneapolis. At FIVE - you can host your ceremony and/or reception in the hip downtown Minny atmosphere. Their rental prices are reasonable and you can bring in outside catering! And even better - they're having an open house and wine tasting for prospective clients!
What: Open House and Wine Tasting
Who: Current and Potential Clients
When: Tuesday, November 17th, 2009 5:00pm-8:30pm
Where: FIVE Event Center (2917 Bryant Avenue South)
Where: FIVE Event Center (2917 Bryant Avenue South)
RSVP: By November 13th to five@fiveeventcenter.com
(I got this invite because I had inquired there - you may want to mention that you aren't currently on their list)
(I got this invite because I had inquired there - you may want to mention that you aren't currently on their list)
Stop by anytime and enjoy the space, live jazz, DJ and catered food by Lettuce Cater, Create Catering and Consulting, Fabulous Catering and Common Roots Cafe.
BONUS! If you book within 10 days of the Open House and Tasting you can receive 10% off the rental fee!
(*Event must be held on Friday or Saturday night in 2010.)
Offer Expires: 11/27/09
Trying to make progress.
11.10.2009
It’s absolutely insane how quickly it goes from walking on air excitement over the engagement to needing to make decisions NOW.
A lot of the pressure I feel is because we want a short engagement. That makes me not want to waste any more day with out a deposit down and decision made on many things. So many venues and people are already booked for our timeframe – I feel the need to get a lot of things done yesterday!
So this past weekend I frantically emailed a friend of mine who is a wedding planner in Ohio to ask some advice. My main problem is finding a reception venue because it's so hard to compare apples to oranges! Everyone has different things included in their prices and I'm having a hard time keeping them all straight.
So here's what she told me - it may help someone else out!
Try and come up with a Per Person price for each venue.
Those quidelines and questions helped me think a bit more clearly - because frankly - I was bit overwhelmed with all the information!
Tricia also gave me a deadline - which was helpful. We're planning a May wedding which means I need to get moving - so I promised her I'd have my main 5 biggies in stone before Christmas - church, reception, photographer, vidoegrapher, florist, musicians. Here we go!
A lot of the pressure I feel is because we want a short engagement. That makes me not want to waste any more day with out a deposit down and decision made on many things. So many venues and people are already booked for our timeframe – I feel the need to get a lot of things done yesterday!
So this past weekend I frantically emailed a friend of mine who is a wedding planner in Ohio to ask some advice. My main problem is finding a reception venue because it's so hard to compare apples to oranges! Everyone has different things included in their prices and I'm having a hard time keeping them all straight.
So here's what she told me - it may help someone else out!
Try and come up with a Per Person price for each venue.
- So this is what you probably do need/want:
- Sit down meal - for figuring sakes, go with a simple chicken dish from each venue
- Bar - typically a 4 hour bar is plenty, bottom level
- Champagne pour - preferably for all guests
- tables/chairs
- Cake service
- Linens - most places will give you basic linens (not floor length - that is an upgrade)
- Find out what the extras are:
- what is their service charge - typically 20% of the food and beverage cost...is there any other fees associated with the service staff
- what is their tax fee
- do they have a security fee
- do they have a cake cutting fee
- What time can people come in to setup - do you have the entire day of the wedding?
- is there a bartendar fee or is that included in the bar charges?
Those quidelines and questions helped me think a bit more clearly - because frankly - I was bit overwhelmed with all the information!
Tricia also gave me a deadline - which was helpful. We're planning a May wedding which means I need to get moving - so I promised her I'd have my main 5 biggies in stone before Christmas - church, reception, photographer, vidoegrapher, florist, musicians. Here we go!
Wedding Fair
The 9th annual "My Minnesota Wedding Bridal Expo" will be held Saturday, November 14th at the Monticello Community Center.
Tickets are $5 at the door, but brides are FREE if you send an email to advertise@majirs.com with your name, address, e-mail address, your groom's name and your wedding date.
Please visit www.myminnesotawedding.com for a complete list of vendors and for more information about the bridal expo.
The deets:
9th Annual " My Minnesota Wedding Bridal Expo"
Saturday, November 14th
1 to 4:30 p.m.
Style Show at 4:30 in the Mississippi Room
Monticello Community Center
505 Walnut Street
Monticello, MN 55362
he put a ring on it!!
11.02.2009
I can’t believe it actually happened…it still feels so surreal!
I’ve thought and dreamt of the moment for so long – and when it actually happened I was SO stunned. I’ve been trying so hard every since to just be in the moment and enjoy everything…take it all in and breathe. I don’t want to forget one little second or memory of any of this!
I was at happy hour with a couple girlfriends on Friday and was rushing to DB’s place as to try not to be any more late for our plans to see the St Paul Orchestra that night. I got to his place and he met me at the elevator like he always does. He had kind of let on in the few days previous that he might have the ring in his possession – but I wasn’t completely sure. And although I thought he might propose soon – I certainly didn’t think it would be that night – as we had plans that we were late for! So we got to his apartment and I opened the door only to find the lights dimmed and a huge pumpkin sitting on the table in front of me. The pumpkin had “Will you marry me?” carved into it and I started FREAKING out. I started crying immediately and was all “are you kidding me? What are you doing? is this for real?” and I just started hugging and kissing him. He was all “I haven’t even asked you anything yet!” and I’m like “well, do it!” So he got the ring and got on one knee and the rest is history!
I was so shocked (and glad that he was able to shock me) and happy and everything! It was SO surreal (and super creative!). I called my parents immediately and we sat on the couch to just reveal in everything and take it all in. We decided not to go to the concert because I couldn’t sit still and wanted to call everyone so we went to the local Cheesecake Factory to get some food (and cheesecake!). We relaxed and called our friends and relatives and had so much fun just being together and being excited.
The rest of the weekend flew by with moments of gazing at the ring, discussing how exciting this all is and visiting with friends/family. It was the greatest weekend!
So unreal how it all really unfolds. We were hardly able to sleep Friday night – we both woke up super early so we went to breakfast and continued the celebration. I worked at my retail job a bit on Saturday and then we went out to a super nice dinner that evening. It’s been so fun to just take it all in and enjoy each other.
I’m SOO excited – I’ve just been floating on air and beaming ever since it happened!
We haven’t started to think much about plans…but as you all know – I’ve got plenty of research already done. Hehe. :) We’re hoping for a May/June wedding here in Minneapolis/St Paul – we’ll see what pans out.
Here are some of my fav pics from the little photo session I did with the ring last night - It's so sparkly and beautiful and I can't stop staring at it!!
I’ve thought and dreamt of the moment for so long – and when it actually happened I was SO stunned. I’ve been trying so hard every since to just be in the moment and enjoy everything…take it all in and breathe. I don’t want to forget one little second or memory of any of this!
I was at happy hour with a couple girlfriends on Friday and was rushing to DB’s place as to try not to be any more late for our plans to see the St Paul Orchestra that night. I got to his place and he met me at the elevator like he always does. He had kind of let on in the few days previous that he might have the ring in his possession – but I wasn’t completely sure. And although I thought he might propose soon – I certainly didn’t think it would be that night – as we had plans that we were late for! So we got to his apartment and I opened the door only to find the lights dimmed and a huge pumpkin sitting on the table in front of me. The pumpkin had “Will you marry me?” carved into it and I started FREAKING out. I started crying immediately and was all “are you kidding me? What are you doing? is this for real?” and I just started hugging and kissing him. He was all “I haven’t even asked you anything yet!” and I’m like “well, do it!” So he got the ring and got on one knee and the rest is history!
I was so shocked (and glad that he was able to shock me) and happy and everything! It was SO surreal (and super creative!). I called my parents immediately and we sat on the couch to just reveal in everything and take it all in. We decided not to go to the concert because I couldn’t sit still and wanted to call everyone so we went to the local Cheesecake Factory to get some food (and cheesecake!). We relaxed and called our friends and relatives and had so much fun just being together and being excited.
The rest of the weekend flew by with moments of gazing at the ring, discussing how exciting this all is and visiting with friends/family. It was the greatest weekend!
So unreal how it all really unfolds. We were hardly able to sleep Friday night – we both woke up super early so we went to breakfast and continued the celebration. I worked at my retail job a bit on Saturday and then we went out to a super nice dinner that evening. It’s been so fun to just take it all in and enjoy each other.
I’m SOO excited – I’ve just been floating on air and beaming ever since it happened!
We haven’t started to think much about plans…but as you all know – I’ve got plenty of research already done. Hehe. :) We’re hoping for a May/June wedding here in Minneapolis/St Paul – we’ll see what pans out.
Here are some of my fav pics from the little photo session I did with the ring last night - It's so sparkly and beautiful and I can't stop staring at it!!
update schmupdate
10.27.2009
Just wanted to pop in and let you all know that I'm still alive. life is busy and my left ring finger is still bare - so keep sending patient thoughts my way! :)
In other news – big congrats to Nicole over at Seaside Smitten!! Head over there to check out a cute blog, fun girl and too, too sweet proposal story!
(These pics are from a friend's wedding a few weeks ago - I just love how cute she looks in her jean jacket over her wedding dress!)
In other news – big congrats to Nicole over at Seaside Smitten!! Head over there to check out a cute blog, fun girl and too, too sweet proposal story!
(These pics are from a friend's wedding a few weeks ago - I just love how cute she looks in her jean jacket over her wedding dress!)
surveyyyy
8.28.2009
Stolen from Like A Valentine.
♥ What are your middle names? Elise and James.
♥ How long have you been together? We had our first anniversary on August 11th.
♥ How long did you know each other before you started dating? We first met in January 2003. We marched that drum corps season together (you must understand that one season of drum corps together is comparable to about 2 years in “real world” time. I was dating another guy at the time, but we spent time together. Then we lost touch because of the end of the season and I moved out of state. We caught back up in January 2008 when I started a new season with the corps (he had always been there) and marched another season together before becoming official in August 2008.
♥ Who asked whom out? Well – I spent all summer trying to get him to hang out with me alone (apart from the group of corps friends), then we went to a concert together with a couple other friends one evening last August. Afterwards, he invited me to go get a drink with him and that was the first time we officially hung out together alone. Then, I asked him to call me after a show one night, and after that phone call he asked me on a real date.
♥ Whose siblings do/did you see the most? His. Mine live too far away.
♥ Do you have any children together? Nope.
♥ What about pets? Nope.
♥ Did you go to the same school? Nope!
♥ Who is the smartest? Depends on the subject matter. J
♥ Who is more sensitive? Absolutely me. I’m such a girly girl and so emotional.
♥ Where do you eat out most as a couple? Probably Bakers Square cause we’re lame and love breakfast there!
♥ Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple? We traveled to NY together last summer for championships right after we started dating. Since then, Iowa to see my family.
♥ Who has the craziest exes? Definitely me!
♥ Who has the worst temper? Probably me….eek! I blame my parents!
♥ Who does the cooking? Probably me – but that’s just because I get home after work before he does. He does when he can though!
♥ Who is more social? Definitely me!
♥ Who is the neat-freak? Depends. I’m more organized and anal about things – but he’s more germaphobic than me.
♥ Who is more stubborn? Absolutely him!
♥ Who hogs the bed? Definitely me. I’m so obsessed with sleep and I hate being disturbed – even if it means Nick’s hanging off the edge.
♥ Who wakes up earlier? Nick! He has to be at the office at 7:15…sucker!
♥ Where was your first date? Green Mill.
♥ Who has the bigger family? NICK! He has a total of 11 sets of aunts/uncles and all their children. I only have 3 sets of aunts/uncles!
♥ Do you get flowers often? Eh.
♥ How do you spend the holidays? Depends. We’ve got to figure out a schedule since his family is right here and mine is far away.
♥ Who is more jealous? Neither.
♥ How long did it take to get serious? Not long at all – we knew from the start.
♥ Who eats more? NICK for sure.
♥ Who does/did the laundry? Me.
♥ Who’s better with the computer? mehhhhhhhhhh
♥ Who drives when you are together? I do almost all of the city driving, and we split the long distance driving.
♥ What are your middle names? Elise and James.
♥ How long have you been together? We had our first anniversary on August 11th.
♥ How long did you know each other before you started dating? We first met in January 2003. We marched that drum corps season together (you must understand that one season of drum corps together is comparable to about 2 years in “real world” time. I was dating another guy at the time, but we spent time together. Then we lost touch because of the end of the season and I moved out of state. We caught back up in January 2008 when I started a new season with the corps (he had always been there) and marched another season together before becoming official in August 2008.
♥ Who asked whom out? Well – I spent all summer trying to get him to hang out with me alone (apart from the group of corps friends), then we went to a concert together with a couple other friends one evening last August. Afterwards, he invited me to go get a drink with him and that was the first time we officially hung out together alone. Then, I asked him to call me after a show one night, and after that phone call he asked me on a real date.
♥ Whose siblings do/did you see the most? His. Mine live too far away.
♥ Do you have any children together? Nope.
♥ What about pets? Nope.
♥ Did you go to the same school? Nope!
♥ Who is the smartest? Depends on the subject matter. J
♥ Who is more sensitive? Absolutely me. I’m such a girly girl and so emotional.
♥ Where do you eat out most as a couple? Probably Bakers Square cause we’re lame and love breakfast there!
♥ Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple? We traveled to NY together last summer for championships right after we started dating. Since then, Iowa to see my family.
♥ Who has the craziest exes? Definitely me!
♥ Who has the worst temper? Probably me….eek! I blame my parents!
♥ Who does the cooking? Probably me – but that’s just because I get home after work before he does. He does when he can though!
♥ Who is more social? Definitely me!
♥ Who is the neat-freak? Depends. I’m more organized and anal about things – but he’s more germaphobic than me.
♥ Who is more stubborn? Absolutely him!
♥ Who hogs the bed? Definitely me. I’m so obsessed with sleep and I hate being disturbed – even if it means Nick’s hanging off the edge.
♥ Who wakes up earlier? Nick! He has to be at the office at 7:15…sucker!
♥ Where was your first date? Green Mill.
♥ Who has the bigger family? NICK! He has a total of 11 sets of aunts/uncles and all their children. I only have 3 sets of aunts/uncles!
♥ Do you get flowers often? Eh.
♥ How do you spend the holidays? Depends. We’ve got to figure out a schedule since his family is right here and mine is far away.
♥ Who is more jealous? Neither.
♥ How long did it take to get serious? Not long at all – we knew from the start.
♥ Who eats more? NICK for sure.
♥ Who does/did the laundry? Me.
♥ Who’s better with the computer? mehhhhhhhhhh
♥ Who drives when you are together? I do almost all of the city driving, and we split the long distance driving.
Outdoor Lighting
Lately, I've been gravitating more and more towards the oh-so-cute, relaxed look and feel of outdoor receptions that are almost like a garden party. If you know anything about me, you know that I've wanted to be a winter bride all of my life. But it doesn't look like that is going to happen based on when the engagement will happen and the length of time I want to be engaged. So I've shifted my thinking to the other seasons. DB has voiced a few times that outdoor weddings appeal to him - we'll see about that though. Nonetheless - I love these lights! So cute!
Instructions at Once Wed.
Instructions at Once Wed.
Personalized Bride
8.27.2009
I'm totally a sucker for all things in my life to scream "I'm a Bride!" (of course, once I'm engaged...*cough!*). I'm thinking a tote for planning items, a t shirt, a zip up for the day of and anything else that crosses my path!
Personalized water bottles...do it up! Also maybe a cool idea for the bridal party for the day of?
Simply enter your own message, select a design (or upload a photo) and there you are!
Personalized water bottles...do it up! Also maybe a cool idea for the bridal party for the day of?
Simply enter your own message, select a design (or upload a photo) and there you are!
EDIT: Just saw this on Broke Ass Bride's Twitter about how there's controversy around SIGG bottles! Find another brand! :)
Uniqueness
8.26.2009
Check out this Minnesota Bride's dress that I saw on my friend's photography business' facebook profile...I'd love to know more! So cute.
What a gorgeous bridal party. I love how clean and crisp it looks.
What a gorgeous bridal party. I love how clean and crisp it looks.
The Gown Seen 'Round the World
8.20.2009
After this bride found the perfect gown to pack, travel and wear - she and her now husband took it on trips everywhere to photograph for a coffee table book. I love this idea - so fun! And it's not too shabby of a dress either. :)
Bubbly
8.19.2009
Check out this cute little bucket of champagne I saw over at Always a Blogsmaid! I think it's a great idea for maybe an engagement gift? The morning after? Maybe if you're hosting a shower? Or possibly just for whenever I want to treat myself! :)
This "Bucket of Bubbles" includes 4 small bottles, flutes, and a cool little carry case that doubles as an ice bucket. Get them at Sherry-Lehmann for $29.95! Nice!
This "Bucket of Bubbles" includes 4 small bottles, flutes, and a cool little carry case that doubles as an ice bucket. Get them at Sherry-Lehmann for $29.95! Nice!
"Get Married"
8.18.2009
FYI - Tomorrow (8/19) morning at 7:30am ET, Deanna Pappas (love her!) and Colin Cowie's show "Get Married" on Lifetime will be featuring Solutions Bridal's fav gowns from Lazaro, Tara Keely, and Jim Hjelm.
I, personally, have Jim Hjelm's line in my top three favorite gown lines. YUM.
Oh...and here is a gorgeous Lazaro that is just the style I want....
I, personally, have Jim Hjelm's line in my top three favorite gown lines. YUM.
Oh...and here is a gorgeous Lazaro that is just the style I want....
Not this time
8.17.2009
Thanks, Nicole-Lynn for the "poke" to blog about this weekend and what did (or more like, what didn't!) happen!
No ring this weekened. I'm not sure how I feel about it but more just content than anything. I had basically worked myself up and convinced myself that it was going to happen this weekend. There were just too many weird signs that really made it made sense - but alas, it was just the world happening the way it does and it wasn't in the plans for this weekend.
Friday night we spent the night at his place just chilling and enjoying each other. Saturday, after breakfast and a couple errands he told me to pack a bag, put me in the car and drove me downtown. We had a picnic lunch at St Anthony falls and spent some time exploring the area - it's super cute and I had never spent more than a moment there so it was definitely enjoyable. Then we drove deeper downtown to the heart of Minneapolis and checked in to a hotel! This was really exciting to me because I've often told him how I love "staycations" - little getaways within your own city to explore and get to see new things. That's the great thing about the Twin Cities - you can live here for years and years and still find new places to see and things to do! So we checked in to our suite (!) and chilled out for a little while. We decided to go do some walking/shopping before dinner, so we headed to Nicollet Mall (a stretch of about 8 blocks with lots of different shops and malls in the skyways) - which was only a few blocks from the hotel. Then we had dinner reservations later (mmm...walleye!) and went back to our room. We exchanged gifts (I got a jewelry box!), popped a bottle of champagne that he had brought when room service showed up with champagne and breakfast buffet tickets (apparently, he had told the front desk that it was our anniversary, so they sent it up!) - so we drank some more champagne and then went around the corner to a cute restaurant for dessert - and then to one of my favorite bars for a beer before heading back. Sunday we had breakfast and then explored downtown a bit more at the Sculpture Gardens, the NE neighborhood and lunch downtown again.
It was SO much fun and I just loved it. I knew after dinner that there wasn't a proposal in the works and admitted it to DB. He felt bad and I told him it wasn't his fault, we talked a bit and he assured me that it wouldn't be much longer. I got over it pretty quickly and more just feel dumb that I had convinced myself it would happen!
My goal is to REALLY cut back on talking/thinking about it now because I know it really is immenent and I don't want to spend the next two months thinking it's going to happen every second. I want to enjoy it and experience it as it is supposed to happen.
Nonetheless, we had a great anniversary celebration and I am excited and more confident that my honey will be able to surprise me with a wonderful proposal when the time is right!
No ring this weekened. I'm not sure how I feel about it but more just content than anything. I had basically worked myself up and convinced myself that it was going to happen this weekend. There were just too many weird signs that really made it made sense - but alas, it was just the world happening the way it does and it wasn't in the plans for this weekend.
Friday night we spent the night at his place just chilling and enjoying each other. Saturday, after breakfast and a couple errands he told me to pack a bag, put me in the car and drove me downtown. We had a picnic lunch at St Anthony falls and spent some time exploring the area - it's super cute and I had never spent more than a moment there so it was definitely enjoyable. Then we drove deeper downtown to the heart of Minneapolis and checked in to a hotel! This was really exciting to me because I've often told him how I love "staycations" - little getaways within your own city to explore and get to see new things. That's the great thing about the Twin Cities - you can live here for years and years and still find new places to see and things to do! So we checked in to our suite (!) and chilled out for a little while. We decided to go do some walking/shopping before dinner, so we headed to Nicollet Mall (a stretch of about 8 blocks with lots of different shops and malls in the skyways) - which was only a few blocks from the hotel. Then we had dinner reservations later (mmm...walleye!) and went back to our room. We exchanged gifts (I got a jewelry box!), popped a bottle of champagne that he had brought when room service showed up with champagne and breakfast buffet tickets (apparently, he had told the front desk that it was our anniversary, so they sent it up!) - so we drank some more champagne and then went around the corner to a cute restaurant for dessert - and then to one of my favorite bars for a beer before heading back. Sunday we had breakfast and then explored downtown a bit more at the Sculpture Gardens, the NE neighborhood and lunch downtown again.
It was SO much fun and I just loved it. I knew after dinner that there wasn't a proposal in the works and admitted it to DB. He felt bad and I told him it wasn't his fault, we talked a bit and he assured me that it wouldn't be much longer. I got over it pretty quickly and more just feel dumb that I had convinced myself it would happen!
My goal is to REALLY cut back on talking/thinking about it now because I know it really is immenent and I don't want to spend the next two months thinking it's going to happen every second. I want to enjoy it and experience it as it is supposed to happen.
Nonetheless, we had a great anniversary celebration and I am excited and more confident that my honey will be able to surprise me with a wonderful proposal when the time is right!
8.14.2009
While I drive myself crazy thinking about DB's plans for tomorrow and how in the world I got the whole weekend off at my second PT job (I always work at least 2 shifts on a weekend!) to enjoy his special plans for us....I found you some cool GROOM blogs!! Check it and have a wonderful weekend!
http://groomsadvice.com/
http://www.iamgroomzilla.com/
http://templeofgroom.blogspot.com/
http://themanregistry.com/
http://groomsadvice.com/
http://www.iamgroomzilla.com/
http://templeofgroom.blogspot.com/
http://themanregistry.com/
8.06.2009
So next Tuesday is out one year anniversary. The first night that things really clicked with us on more than a friendship level was at this outdoor band concert we attended at Lake Harriet. That same concert is Monday night, which we’re going to. Then Tuesday DB supposedly has dinner plans and we’ll exchange gifts – NO idea what I’m getting him yet…yikes! And then that Saturday he told me to reserve for a special celebration.
We were supposed to go to Indianapolis this weekend for drum & bugle corps championships (we met in drum corps) which would’ve been awesome, but decided not to due to how expensive the trip would’ve been. So instead, he wants to do something special the Saturday after our anniversary to make up for it. Not sure what he’s thinking???
I just feel bad because I know he’s trying to hard to put every penny he can towards the ring, and here he is planning nice anniversary things. I hope whatever I end up gifting him makes up for it all and is just as special for him. I know the one thing he would say he wants is a new nice watch – but I’m waiting on that to give him after we get engaged as a sort of “engagement gift” – I know he’ll appreciate that since he worked so hard on the ring.
I’m trying to put all thoughts aside of a possible engagement during the anniversary activities…he’s alluded to the fact before that he won’t do it then and it’ll be it’s own special event. WE’LL SEE!
We were supposed to go to Indianapolis this weekend for drum & bugle corps championships (we met in drum corps) which would’ve been awesome, but decided not to due to how expensive the trip would’ve been. So instead, he wants to do something special the Saturday after our anniversary to make up for it. Not sure what he’s thinking???
I just feel bad because I know he’s trying to hard to put every penny he can towards the ring, and here he is planning nice anniversary things. I hope whatever I end up gifting him makes up for it all and is just as special for him. I know the one thing he would say he wants is a new nice watch – but I’m waiting on that to give him after we get engaged as a sort of “engagement gift” – I know he’ll appreciate that since he worked so hard on the ring.
I’m trying to put all thoughts aside of a possible engagement during the anniversary activities…he’s alluded to the fact before that he won’t do it then and it’ll be it’s own special event. WE’LL SEE!
trends as seen in real weddings
7.28.2009
The following are some pics I've seen lately from friends' weddings that feature current trends I've seen in the wedding world. Take a peek and enjoy!
Ashley and Jeff gave all the groomsmen white jackets - classy look!
Rachel looks great in her hair to the side and floral piece. Also - check out that dress!!
Lauren & Marty go with yellow and tiffany blue for their scheme. Love the yellow flowers! Nice statement!
Jamie & James had a nice, country, subdued color scheme. I love the bridesmaid dresses - cocktail length and a pretty light sage/champagne hue.
Heidi and Matt are definitely a city couple. I love the shots against the cityscape!
Heidi's bridesmaids and bouquets - super cute!!
Matt's groomsmen in their chucks.
Gina's gorgeous halo ring!
Erin's pretty pale yellow BMs!
Love Ariann's dress with the cute sash!
Ashley and Jeff gave all the groomsmen white jackets - classy look!
Check out the beautiful BM dresses. And birds of paradise bouquets! Nice!
Rachel looks great in her hair to the side and floral piece. Also - check out that dress!!
Lauren & Marty go with yellow and tiffany blue for their scheme. Love the yellow flowers! Nice statement!
Jamie & James had a nice, country, subdued color scheme. I love the bridesmaid dresses - cocktail length and a pretty light sage/champagne hue.
Heidi and Matt are definitely a city couple. I love the shots against the cityscape!
Heidi's bridesmaids and bouquets - super cute!!
Matt's groomsmen in their chucks.
Gina's gorgeous halo ring!
Erin's pretty pale yellow BMs!
Love Ariann's dress with the cute sash!
to friendor or not?
7.27.2009
The boy and I took a weekend trip to Madison this past weekend to visit his sister and while in route we found ourselves in, what else, wedding discussions. The topic this time? Music.
You see, DB and I are of the musical nature. We met in a music group, we have lots of musical friends, we routinely listen to music in the car that "normal" people would cringe at (and do!). So naturally, music is an important part of a big event as a wedding might be for us.
It all began with talking about the wedding party. You see - he has one sister and one brother and I have two brothers. Naturally, he wants his brother to be a groomsman and his sister to be one of my bridesmaids. No problem. Except what about my two brothers? If all is fair in love and war - my brothers would be both be groomsmen as well. But that doesn't leave very many spots left for DB to have friends in the line-up. So then I thought of the option of my brothers doing the ceremony music (not sure how considering one is an ex-trumpeter gone drummer and the other is a trumpeter). But DB countered with - "Um...have you not thought about the many, many friends we have that are excellent musicians that we could book for close to free?" and I'm all - "oh yeah."
the question at hand is this, my lovelies...do you use friendors or risk offending friends who have the same talent by hiring a "professional"?
We have numerous friends who have groups who could play at the ceremony, cocktail hour (will there even be such a think?), dinner and reception. But - would they rather enjoy the wedding instead of playing? Or would it be a smart move financially to hire a friendor instead of a vendor?
None the less - our wedding/reception will be a rockin' one...you betcha!
You see, DB and I are of the musical nature. We met in a music group, we have lots of musical friends, we routinely listen to music in the car that "normal" people would cringe at (and do!). So naturally, music is an important part of a big event as a wedding might be for us.
It all began with talking about the wedding party. You see - he has one sister and one brother and I have two brothers. Naturally, he wants his brother to be a groomsman and his sister to be one of my bridesmaids. No problem. Except what about my two brothers? If all is fair in love and war - my brothers would be both be groomsmen as well. But that doesn't leave very many spots left for DB to have friends in the line-up. So then I thought of the option of my brothers doing the ceremony music (not sure how considering one is an ex-trumpeter gone drummer and the other is a trumpeter). But DB countered with - "Um...have you not thought about the many, many friends we have that are excellent musicians that we could book for close to free?" and I'm all - "oh yeah."
the question at hand is this, my lovelies...do you use friendors or risk offending friends who have the same talent by hiring a "professional"?
We have numerous friends who have groups who could play at the ceremony, cocktail hour (will there even be such a think?), dinner and reception. But - would they rather enjoy the wedding instead of playing? Or would it be a smart move financially to hire a friendor instead of a vendor?
None the less - our wedding/reception will be a rockin' one...you betcha!
5.28.2009
so a few weeks ago DB's grandpa (who has been in a nursing home for a few years and had diabeties, was 82, etc) was sent to the ICU because things had spiraled out of control - kidneys failing, all that good stuff. DB called me at my part time, evening job (which he never does) and told me through his tears. I left work immediately and he came and picked me up. When I asked him where he was he hesitated and said "on hwy 169..." sheepishly. I asked why and he said "don't worry about it." then i figured out that up 169 is where the jewelry store that we picked out that ring is! AH! we spent the day at the hospital and that night DB told me he was in the parking lot when his mom called him. MAN! We spent the next day with his Grandpa and family and then his status improved so we went home.
A couple nights later, DB was being super cute and antsy and he wouldn't tell me why. But he pressured me to ask questions (fine...twist my arm!) and I found out that he had gone and picked out the diamond and put money down on the ring as a whole. and he was BURSTING at his seams with pride and excitement. it was SO cute. I cried, of course.
His Grandpa continued to get better and then two weeks later (last Friday) they sent him back to the nursing home because he was going downhill again and he didn't need the hospital so he went back to where he was comfortable. We went to see him this past Sunday night and he was even responding to us (come to find out we were the last ones he talked to) and he passed away Tuesday morning.
DB is BESIDE HIMSELF. I never thought he'd be this torn up. I feel SO horrible - and hate seeing him in so much pain and hurting so much. We'll spend the weekend with his (big) family and be at the funeral events Sunday and Monday. He went to the funeral home Tuesday while I was at work and apparently everyone was asking him about when we were getting married (he's hardly ever with his family without me).
This has also brought up to me the issue of honoring passed grandparents at the wedding. I had never really thought of it because this was his first grandparent to pass and I don't have any still alive (none of which I really knew or were close with). But now that I know how close he was to his Grandpa, we'll surely figure something out.
A couple nights later, DB was being super cute and antsy and he wouldn't tell me why. But he pressured me to ask questions (fine...twist my arm!) and I found out that he had gone and picked out the diamond and put money down on the ring as a whole. and he was BURSTING at his seams with pride and excitement. it was SO cute. I cried, of course.
His Grandpa continued to get better and then two weeks later (last Friday) they sent him back to the nursing home because he was going downhill again and he didn't need the hospital so he went back to where he was comfortable. We went to see him this past Sunday night and he was even responding to us (come to find out we were the last ones he talked to) and he passed away Tuesday morning.
DB is BESIDE HIMSELF. I never thought he'd be this torn up. I feel SO horrible - and hate seeing him in so much pain and hurting so much. We'll spend the weekend with his (big) family and be at the funeral events Sunday and Monday. He went to the funeral home Tuesday while I was at work and apparently everyone was asking him about when we were getting married (he's hardly ever with his family without me).
This has also brought up to me the issue of honoring passed grandparents at the wedding. I had never really thought of it because this was his first grandparent to pass and I don't have any still alive (none of which I really knew or were close with). But now that I know how close he was to his Grandpa, we'll surely figure something out.
Real Wedding
5.19.2009
One of my old college roomates got married this past weekend. While I wasn't there, I do know how to grab photos from our other roomate, Maggie's, facebook album. :) Maggie and I have lots of fond and hilariou memories of living with Olga sophomore year. Maggie and I already knew each other and Olga was a transfer student who got placed with us - little did we know how lucky we were! We spent the school year learning bits of Russian, in awe of her beauty, going to Russian church and events with her, making fun of her for American things she didn't know and so much more. After college she moved back to Boston and now has married a good Russian man. Maggie said it was quite an event with all the Russians there and the reception was even a bit different because of their culture. Congrats Olga and Ilya!
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