A Wedding and a Barbie - Part II - Bride to Bridesmaid

The Date Is Set - October 17!

2009-01-10T18:34:00.000-08:00

The date is set for October 17, 2009 - the next big day! Emily and Bill will be tying the knot.

This day in history the following events occurred:

Events
539 BC - King Cyrus The Great of Persia marches into the city of Babylon, releasing the Jews from almost 70 years of exile and making the first Human Rights Declaration.
1091 - T8/F4 tornado strikes the heart of London.
1346 - Battle of Neville's Cross: King David II of Scotland is captured by Edward III of England at Calais, and imprisoned in the Tower of London for eleven years.
1448 - Second Battle of Kosovo, where the mainly Hungarian army led by John Hunyadi were defeated by an Ottoman army led by Sultan Murad II.
1456 - The University of Greifswald is established, making it the second oldest university in northern Europe (also for a period the oldest in Sweden, and Prussia)
1604 - Kepler's Star: German astronomer Johannes Kepler observes that an exceptionally bright star had suddenly appeared in the constellation. Ophiuchus, which turned out to be the last supernova to have been observed in our own galaxy, the Milky Way.
1610 - French king Louis XIII is crowned in Rheims.
1660 - Nine Regicides, the men who signed the death warrant of Charles I, are hanged, drawn and quartered, another is hanged.
1662 - Charles II of England sells Dunkirk to France for 40,000 pounds.
1777 - American troops defeat the British in the Battle of Saratoga.
1781 - General Charles Cornwallis offers his surrender to the American revolutionists at Yorktown, Virginia.
1797 - Treaty of Campo Formio is signed between France and Austria
1800 - England takes control of the Dutch colony of Curaçao.
1806 - Former leader of the Haitian Revolution, Emperor Jacques I of Haiti was assassinated after an oppressive rule.
1814 - London Beer Flood occurs in London killing nine.
1860 - First The Open Championship (referred to in North America as the British Open).
1888 - Thomas Edison files a patent for the Optical Phonograph (the first movie).
1907 - Guglielmo Marconi's company begins the first commercial transatlantic wireless service between Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, Canada and Clifden, Ireland.
1912 - Bulgaria, Greece and Serbia declare war on the Ottoman Empire, joining Montenegro in the First Balkan War.
1917 - First British bombing of Germany in World War I.
1931 - Al Capone convicted of income tax evasion.
1933 - Albert Einstein, fleeing Nazi Germany, moves to the U.S..
1941 - For the first time in World War II, a German submarine attacks an American ship.
1945 - A massive number of people, headed by CGT and Evita, gather in the Plaza de Mayo in Argentina to demand Juan Peron's release. This is known to the Peronists as the Día de la lealtad (day of loyalty). It's considered the birthday of Peronism.
1956 - The first commercial nuclear power station was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in Sellafield,in Cumbria, England.
1961 - Scores of Algerian protesters (some claim up to 400) are massacred by the Paris police at the instigation of Nazi collaborator Maurice Papon, then chief of the Prefecture of Police.
1965 - The 1964-1965 New York World's Fair closes after a two year run. More than 51 million people had attended the two-year event.
1966 - A fire at a building in New York, New York kills 12 firefighters, the New York City Fire Department's deadliest day until the September 11, 2001 attacks.
1970 - Montreal, Quebec: Quebec Vice-Premier and Minister of Labour Pierre Laporte murdered by members of the FLQ terrorist group.
1973 - OPEC starts an oil embargo against a number of western countries, considered to have helped Israel in its war against Syria.
1977 - German Autumn: Four days after it was hijacked, Lufthansa Flight 181 lands in Mogadishu, Somalia, where a team of German GSG 9 commandos later rescues all remaining hostages on board.
1979 - Mother Teresa awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
1979 - The Department of Education Organization Act is signed into law creating the US Department of Education and US Department of Health and Human Services. Both replace the Department of Health, Education and Welfare.
1983 - Grateful Dead played for their one and only appearance in Lake Placid, NY
1989 - Loma Prieta earthquake (7.1 on the Richter scale) hits the San Francisco Bay Area and causes 57 deaths directly (and 6 indirectly).
1998 - At Jesse, in the Niger Delta, Nigeria, a petroleum pipeline explodes killing about 1200 villagers, some of whom are scavenging gasoline.
2000 - Train crash at Hatfield, north of London, leading to collapse of Railtrack.
2003 - The pinnacle was fitted on the roof of Taipei 101, a 101-floor skyscraper in Taipei, allowing it to surpass the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur by 50 meters (165 feet) and become the World's tallest highrise.
2003 - Eunuchs in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh float the political party Jiti Jitayi Politics.
2006 - The United States population reaches 300 million.
2007 - The Dalai Lama receives the United States Congressional Gold Medal.

A Wedding and a Barbie Continues with a new Bride!

2009-01-09T21:25:00.000-08:00

I wondered what I would do with my blog... It is entitled A Wedding and a Barbie and the wedding is over... What is a girl and her barbie to do?

Be a Bridesmaid of course! Over the Christmas holiday, my dear friend Emily got engaged. She asked me to be a Bridesmaid in her wedding and I am truly honored! She was a Bridesmaid for me so I am looking forward to being there to support her during this wonderful but stressful time in her life.

Emily and I as Bridesmaid and Bride...

Over the next 10 months, I will be blogging about my experience as a Bridesmaid. It's going to be a wild and crazy ride! One I am definitely looking forward to blogging about!

Check back in 10 months - tentative October 17th for a photo of me and Emily, Bridesmaid and Bride! I can wait and I look forward to this journey with her!

Wedding Details Coming Soon

2008-12-20T21:12:00.000-08:00

I have been such a slacker on posting all of my wedding details... but I really do "plan" on getting around to it soon. I need to figure out how to get the photo files from the wedding smaller before I even attempt to post the details! Keep you fingers crossed or feel free to enlighten me on changing the file size!

But... I can post that FABULOUS picture of my FABULOUS shoes! I recommend these shoes... They are lovely and are comfortable. They were perfect and I couldn't have been more happy with them.

The designer is Pura Lopez and the shoes are called Alis! You can check them out at www.footlux.com. They are amazing and we will make you feel like a Princess on your special day!

Wedding Photos - It's about time!!!!

2008-12-15T18:59:00.000-08:00

I have my wedding photos in hand and they are truly all I could have ever asked for... Amazing! If you are getting married and need a photographer... you just simply must use Fleming Photography - Todd and Tara are the best! Check out their website: www.tflemingphotography.com

The photos are high resolution (and I am not tech savvy enough to be able to make the files smaller) and I am unable to post more here, but here are a few of my absolute favs! I have posted more on my Facebook... Check'em out!

Honeymoon - El Dorado Seaside Suites

2008-11-15T18:27:00.000-08:00

We honeymooned at the wonderful El Dorado Seaside Suites in Riviera Maya Mexico. It was recommended to us. We spent 8 beautiful days on the beach. Here are some of my favorite pictures!The resort had several pools and lazy rivers running through it. Here is a photo of one of the many wonderful swim up bars. The scenery is amazing and brilliant colors. We were lucky enough to have one of the lazy rivers run by our private patio allowing us swimming access to a near by swim up bar.

Sitting pool side drinking a cold frosty beverage at one of the many pool side bars. There were many seculed spots where you could enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the resort.

Joseph enjoying wearing my sunglasses and drinking a nice refreshing beverage. He didn't believe me when I told him I would post this picture on the blog! The building behind him was the main restuarant and bar.

The coral reefs and wonderful beach outside our room! Very nice! They weren't perfect for playing around in the ocean, but the water was refreshing. We spent an afternoon snokling around the coral reefs.

We enjoyed this resort, but I don't know if we would recommend it. I think there are better resorts in Riviera Maya. It was beautiful, but everything is gorgeous here.

The Truth About Weddings Revealed - Delusional Bride

2008-10-14T13:23:00.001-07:00

A friend passed this along to me just a few minutes ago....

Check out the WorthALaugh.com website... Very funny stuff.

On October 1oth, they posted the attached fake magazine cover for Delusional Bride... Under the posting "The Truth About Weddings Revealed".

I enjoyed it and it brought a smile to my face. Something not easy to do with I am in the last two weeks of my wedding!

Anyway... Hope you enjoy "Delusional Bride" and Thank You WorthALaugh.com.... It was worth a laugh!

Panic, Panic, Panic!

Invitations... what do you want to know?

2008-10-11T02:59:00.000-07:00

When I started planning my wedding in January, I thought I would only have to worry about the wedding invitation! Oh no... there are other invitations you will need to consider if you chose to go a bit overboard! I do love getting invitations in the mail. Of course, I won't be receiving any of these invitations. Guess I love sending them as well.

Here is the list of invitations I have sent so far:

Engagement Party

Save The Date

Wedding Invitation

Rehearsal Dinner

Bridesmaid Luncheon

The Engagement Party invitations were hand made by one of my bridesmaid and myself. Very cute and easy to make. I would recommend making them for at least one of the events you will be hosting. They are especially nice if you party is small. Don't recommend making over 100!

The Save The Date cards were purchased at Target for a reasonable price. The were a bit plan so I added a piece of card stock in a complimentary color. I actually printed on the card stock instead of the actual invite. I tied the card stock to the invite with a cute ribbon! I got tons of feedback. Everyone loved them.

The Wedding Invitations were the hardest for me. I spent months online looking over hundreds of websites. I thought I had found the perfect invite and it was within my price range! How perfect, right? Thank goodness I had taken the advice of a friend and ordered a sample! It ended up being not what I wanted. I ended up spending a bit more, but getting exactly what I had envisioned! I had the invitation designed by a local stationer. If you can't find the perfect invite, look to small up and coming stationers for help. You might get a good deal!

The Rehearsal Dinner are the absolute cutest! Entitled "Extreme Pig", they are die cut invites. Die cut means the card (or part of the card) is a method for punching or cutting out any special shapes by using a metal form that is called a die. This invitation has a paper pig attached with a bow to the invite. Love it... Love it... Love it! The die cut invites are very very cute. I would have loved to use all die cut invites, but I think one is enough. They are truly special and not to be over done. (See Rehearsal Dinner invite posting)

The Bridesmaid luncheon invitation is again a mix of a pre-made invite with added details from me. I ordered this invitation online and printed it at home. I added a bow AND an envelope liner in a matching color. The envelope liner is an easy way to make if you have a paper cutter. Kinko's also has paper cutters along with a wide selection of colored card stock. The liner is a nice touch and can be cheap to do (a few cents an invite).

FAVORITE ONLINE STATIONER: www.paperstlye.com

Dress is finished and hiding in Bartlett

2008-10-11T02:48:00.001-07:00

The alterations to the wedding dress are complete and the dress is hiding in Bartlett with my MOH. Here's where the bad, but could be good news comes in. During my last fitting for the dress, it was still about an inch to big. I asked (what was I thinking) could you take it in more. I want it really tight. My dress is basically strapless and it weighs a ton! Ms Koulu took me up on it and shaved another inch (if not more) off my dress.

When I tried to on the last time to view her work, I had to suck in and hold my breath. Luckily, they did get the zipper up and the fit felt good. With the bodice tight, I hardly noticed the extreme weight of my dress! It also made me look thinner and flatered my figure. You know... the one I have been working on at the Gym since March. The dress is perfect! Good news....

Bad news.... There will be no room for any "enlargements" on my part.

Can I just say.... "Don't feed the Bride!"

Final Meeting with The Florist

2008-10-11T02:38:00.001-07:00

I had my final meeting with my wonderful florist. What was suppose to be an hour meeting soon turned into 2 hours of flower shopping and brainstorming in the cooler of a local wholesale florist. Note: bring a coat if you ever do this!

The posted picture is one of the inspirational photos and represents the look we will be going for in regards to the floral arrangements.

I wanted a rustic, but elegant look. We will be using jasmine and corkscrew willow branches from my yard to make the arrangements complimented by lots of greenery from my yard as well. This has enabled my floral budget to go quite a bit further than it would have been able to go.

So if you are getting married and you have a green thumb, definitely mention it to your florist and invite them over to your yard for a sneak preview of what you will be able to provide.

The flowers for the wedding have been a big priority for me. I have spent more time with Susan than any other vendor and I truly feel it will pay off in the end.

If you are getting married in Memphis, you simply must give Susan's Florals a chance. Susan is the best and she has a great eye.... and the most important thing... She's loves what she does and she will make you feel like you are her only Bride and only worry in the world! Love her!

Victorian Cake Charms

2008-10-11T02:25:00.000-07:00

A Victorian Tradition, to make your wedding grand. In days of old, charms of luck and good fortune were placed into the wedding cake. The custom of "Ribbon Pulling" dates back to the Victorian England when the bride hid small charms attached to ribbons within the layers of her wedding cake. The tradition has made a "charming" comeback with recently and I couldn't help but include them in my wedding planning.

With the help of two of favorite friends, I will be hosting a Bridesmaid Luncheon to thank my Bridesmaids and the other wonderful females in my life that have helped me through this hectic time in my life. It is at the Bridesmaid luncheon I plan on having the cake charms inserted into the cake.

Prior to the cake cutting, everyone will gather around the cake. Each person will get the chance to pull a charm from the cake and find out what promises are in their future. Each charm has a special meaning. I plan on printing out the meanings of each charm on card stock and have them available for everyone. No matter which is chosen, the future does look bright! I hope this charming 'ribbon pulling' will add to the day's delights!! Did I mention they are just too adorable! Love them!

Heart (true love)
Ring (next engagement)
Four-leaf clover (good luck)
Flower (blossoming love)
Wishing well (a wish will come true)
Anchor (travel and adventure)

Signing Back On... Maybe?

2008-10-11T02:13:00.001-07:00

Can't believe it's been almost 3 weeks since my last post! Shame shame shame...

I am going to make an honest effort to try and post at least once every day up to the wedding...

Which is TWO WEEKS away!

I have thought about my blog several times a day since my last post, but I almost feel like I didn't want to share the fine details I had started to get into... I wanted there to be some sort of surprise. Why now? I haven't kept anything secret up until recently.... seriously why start now?

Things have started to feel different... more serious, a bit more real. I have always felt the blog needed to be light and a bit airy which is not how I am feeling right now... 4:17 am in the morning.

Maybe blogging is what I need to bring back the fun of getting married. With that said, I will make the effort to blog more and give more juicy details on the wedding.

Final dress fitting... Stop feeding the bride

2008-09-22T20:50:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow is my final dress fitting....

So... Stop feeding the bride!

Yet Another Bridesmaid Shoe

2008-09-22T20:41:00.002-07:00

I think we found THE shoe... well... Emily found THE shoe at Dillard's. The shoe is by Nina and the style is Kyleen. This shoe is specifically made for long term standing and is re-enforced and has extra padding for the ball of the foot... It's actually squishy and has a lot of give! Not to mention it is a perfect match for the dress which I verified today with the scarf from the dress!

The shoe is so cute... you know you can pair it with a pair of jeans and a sassy top for any night on the town.

I am almost sad that I won't have a pair of these to wear in the future but I do have a pair of fabulous Bridal Shoes that I am sure will provide comfort! They are sooooo great lookin!

Hopefully, everyone will approve this 3.25 heel in satin and I will be a happy bride that gets to check off yet another item on my list! Keep your fingers crossed... things are looking good for a positive outcome on this shoe!

Ring Purchased

2008-09-22T20:41:00.001-07:00

Check off yet another item on the list... Groom's wedding ring purchased!

Mother Daughter Brunch

2008-09-22T20:26:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, we had a Mother Daughter Brunch and big fun was had by all! It was a very special day for me and I felt like a Bride (not just a wedding planner!) Thanks to all who took part in the planning! It was a wonderful day and I am so happy that all the moms had a chance to meet.

Here is a picture with all the Mothers and Daughters!

And of course... the Mother of the Bride and the Bride (that's me!)

All the bridesmaids and the bride in front of Owen Brennans!

Another great pic... after we had all over eaten!

Drape the tent!

2008-09-08T07:06:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, I was offered the opportunity to see the setup process at the Brooks for a reception. The only thing that I saw and had me saying "We have to have it!" was the draping of the tent. The Chocolate Brown fabric adds so much to the tent... I just couldn't believe it. I have some emails out requesting quotes. Keep your fingers crossed. I would love to drape the tent.

Take a look below! It really makes the tent!

Rehearsal Dinner Invites? Yes, No, Maybe

2008-09-08T07:05:00.000-07:00

I really never thought about whether you send invites for the rehearsal dinner, but with all the hours I am spending on the net... I have found some do send invites to the dinner. With booking the Bar B Que Shop for the Rehearsal Dinner. I couldn't help but think how cute would it be to send the following invites! Love them... Love the pig!

http://www.paperstyle.com/... great site for invites... I might even say reasonably priced.

Here... Piggy piggy piggy! Please be my invite!

Bubbles with a twist and some beads

2008-09-08T07:01:00.001-07:00

This past weekend I took a night to dress up my yard sale bubbles. In one of the many magazines I have read, I saw a picture of the bubbles with ribbon and beads.

I added a bit more with using a colored wire and additional beads. I also used an embellished ribbon with loops on the edges. The tulle is ivory. The picture is a bit washed out. The beads are Chocolate Brown, Gold and Red.

I think they are adorable and well worth the night I sacrificed to complete them.

Love them... and I actually enjoyed the quiet time to make them.

Thanks Heidi for holding my hand at Michael's... to think I couldn't make a decision on the color of the beads or the pre-cut tulle or the wire color... The little decisions are just over whelming!

Pew Wreaths - Formal enough?

2008-09-08T06:56:00.000-07:00

During discussions with my florist, I determined it was out of my budget to have pew markers. The church as double aisles... meaning each row has to have 4 pew markers. There are 21 rows in the church. I had never considered putting markers on every row, maybe just every aisles, but I had considered every 3rd aisles.

Basically, on the first and second row with the next marker on 5 row then 8 row then 11 row and so on. It totals up to 7 rows would have markers at 4 markers per row... 28 markers!

28 markers at .... yes $20 each!... is $560! What for markers on the pews... really! Oh so not worth it i my mind.

So on to plan B....

On Sunday, I took a few minutes before church to dress up one of the grapevine wreaths I purchased at Hobby Lobby (at 50% off $1.50 each!)

I didn't spend more than 5 minutes adding a few sprigs of Boxwood, Nandina, Curly Willow, and fallen Magnolia leaves (thanks Brandon and Kevin!) from my yard. I only had a small brown ribbon to use. In a perfect world, I would have used a coppery orange. So please use your imagination and add a beautiful Coppery orange ribbon on the wreath... adds a pop to the wreath.

Here are some of the results...

The question is... Are the formal enough? Are they too rustic?

A few of the flowers that will be used in the other arrangements in the church might add more color and more "formal" feel to the wreath. Or will it? Here is a picture looking down the aisle.

Here is a pic of the pew... no marker. Anyone have any ideas on another possible "inexpensive" option for pew markers?

Party Supply Websites

2008-09-03T21:55:00.000-07:00

Check out these party supply websites! Great ideas at great prices. My favorite idea on this website that I will probably incorporate into our reception is hurricane shade & base with a pillar candle surrounded by petals! Awesome!

At the Rehearsal dinner, I would love to use Ardent's 24 hurricane shades and add wood chips instead of petals. A ribbon tied at the bottom will add a punch of color.

http://www.save-on-crafts.com/ This is a very extensive website and very user friendly. The prices are reasonable which is always important. I love that they list additional items you might need when you click on a specific item. A project section is also available for everyone to browse. Not only do they provide a great number of project ideas, they provide detailed instructions on how to complete the project along with a list of items you will need with links to each item. This is a definite bookmark site.

http://www.chillerswholesale.com/ - Best koozies in the world! You can design your own using a simple program they provide. Great fonts and lots of graphics. Check it out and have fun designing your own Koozie! Love this site... I might have even ordered something... maybe... it's a surprise!

Grapevine Wreaths: I would recommend waiting until Hobby Lobby has a 50% off sale on wreaths. But check out these other vendors:

http://buygrapevines.com/grapevinewreaths.html

http://www.directfloral.com/productdetails.asp?ProductID=453055729

For all those Criers out there

2008-09-03T20:31:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am one of those... I do tend to cry at weddings and thought I would help all my fellow "Criers" with a packet of tissues! The idea of having them available for those in need... seems to me to be perfect... The plan is to have the tissues placed next to the sign in book at the Church.

Did I mention they are a perfect match for our wedding invitations.

The following website has every type of tissue you might ever need - www.thetissuestore.com

Do I just do it... Do I just need to have these available? YES!

Bridesmaid Jewery Selected

2008-09-03T19:54:00.000-07:00

Surprisingly... or not so! I had great difficulty picking the jewelry for my Bridesmaids.

Funny enough, once I stopped looking, the perfect jewelry found me. I wanted something fun, but still traditional enough for a formal wedding. It also needed to tie in the colors of my wedding - Chocolate brown, burnt orange-red, and gold.

Well, I think I found it!

If not, please let me know... (I could just be desperate at this point!)

I kept the receipt! Love a store with a great return policy.

Registries Completed

2008-08-31T10:17:00.000-07:00

It's official... Elizabeth Montgomery and Joseph Brown have completed their wedding registry and listed below are where they are registered!

Macy's - http://www.macys.com/
Pottery Barn - http://www.potterybarn.com/
Bed Bath & Beyond - http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/

Lowe's - http://www.lowes.com/

I have had several people stated they could not locate any of our registries on the net. This post in my blog should insure that anyone who googles our name and registered should find this blog!

Celebrity Eyebrows available for the Masses

2008-08-30T13:38:00.000-07:00

Have you been getting the "Eyebrow Makeover" you need when you have your eyebrows waxed?

Over the years, I have asked several professionals to give their opinion on the shape of my eyebrows. They each told me I was doing a great job and the shape was good. Some didn't even look, but they did say they looked great, right? Why question?

When I do get my eyebrows waxed, they never change the shape. They just clean up the edges so to speak. Even though I have always wondered... Do women change their eyebrow shape like the change their hair styles? Was I missing something that every other woman in the world was hip to?

Well... in the last several months, I have seen several makeover shows which featured a whole section regarding eyebrows. They had stencils, they had small scissors, they had small brushes, they had small combs and .... Each had a expert who spoke on the various shapes and the pros and cons of each based on eyebrow length and thickness. While watching, I noted that maybe I could indeed have a better shape than I had. And clearly, women do change the shape of their eyebrows.

Given the enormous pressure for great wedding photos, I definitely didn't want to have bad eyebrows!

I mean.... seriously, an entire section on eyebrows on a makeover show! That said I have been growing out my eyebrows! Please understand this does mean I've cheated on occasion and plucked the stray hair here and there.

If you too are worried about your eyebrows or just want a change, check out this website - www.eyebrowz.com. This website has tons of information on eyebrow shapes and even instructions on picking one. I also love all the photo examples with links to celebrities with the same shape.

Who knew you could order an eyebrow stencil so you could have Elizabeth Taylor eyebrows or for that matter Julia Roberts, Audrey Hepburn, Cher, Britney Spears, Jewel, Jennifer Lopez.... Hundreds of celebrities are available!

My favorite for my particular measurements is Niki Taylor's eyebrows!

Wedding Ceremony Songs

2008-08-18T21:25:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, I had time to speak with the organist. He's a great guy and I was able to give him a short list of favorite songs for the ceremony. All very classic and traditional... no surprises!

And here they are...

Never knew I was such a Bach fan!

JESU, JOY OF MAN'S DESIRING - BACH
AIR ON THE G STRING - BACH
CANON IN D -PACHELBEL
THE BRIDAL CHORUS FROM LOHENGRIN - WAGNER
THE WEDDING MARCH - FELIX MENDELSSOHN
ARIOSO – BACH
HALLELUJAH CHORUS - MESSIAH
ODE TO JOY – BEETHOVEN (MAYBE)

If you would like to listen to them go to iTunes. They are all available for a 30 seconds snip it!

Here's a link to a pipe organ version of Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lrsUbdeeK8

Round Two - Shoes ordered (again)

2008-08-18T19:54:00.000-07:00

I actually had to go outside the US to find these shoes. A bit more than I wanted to spend... but nothing like a pair of Christian Louboutin Bridal shoes (Maybe one day and I will stop talking about these shoes).

I would love to have a pair of high end designer shoes, but with the average heel being 4 plus inches... my feet just can't take that kind of heel all day long.

The shoes I found are by Pura López and are entitled Alis. Pura López is a Spanish shoe designer who "believes that shoes are much more than a mere accessory: she sees them as a key means of expressing a sense of femininity and seduction, and which marks the difference between vulgarity and elegance." And I whole heartedly agree. This is the perfect ladylike pump... a perfect bridal pump! I love you Pura! You rock...

The website selling her shoes is http://www.footlux.com/! Check them out... they have an awesome selection of shoes!

I have had a blast tracking my shoes on the UPS website as they make their way from Madrid, Spain to my little feet in Memphis!

Keep your toes crossed they are all they can be!

Advice from a wise wife - Make the future special too!

2008-08-16T16:10:00.000-07:00

I came across this suggestion today and I loved it! It reminded me of a conversation I had earlier this summer with a married friend of mine. I asked her if she had any suggestions about the wedding or any thing she wish she had done differently. They have been married almost 10 years and wouldn't change anything.... but she did regret that they had not paid enough attention to anniversaries. She wished that they had done something special for each one.

Well, I found the perfect idea to insure you do make those first anniversaries truly special.

Toast to Tradition

What it is: Like the true oenophiles you are, mark the milestones of the first few years of your marriage with fabulous bottles of wine, surrounded by the loving tributes of your friends and family.

How it's done: At the reception, set out five bottles of vino, one for each of your first five anniversaries. Tag each bottle with the specific anniversary that it will commemorate. Start with a great champagne, and then include four special vintages that will improve with age until their scheduled opening time. Gather a bunch of pens that write on glass (silver and gold Sharpies work well), and then invite your guests to cover the bottles with their well-wishes for that anniversary.

Tip: Be sure to store the champagne cork up, and the other four bottles on their sides in a dark, cool environment (a wine cellar or dry basement is best) until you're ready to enjoy them.

Crane's Etiquette is a most...

2008-08-10T21:14:00.000-07:00

I am trying to finalize the wording on the invitation. Who knew there are so many rules to follow. A wise friend pointed me to Crane's Etiquette. Thank yo so much! If you are trying to find the perfect wording for your invitation definitely look to Crane's.

Visit the website at http://www.crane.com/etiquette.aspx?C=WeddingEtiquette&S=WeddingInvitation&I=Date_Line

I hope to have the finalized version of my invitation this week. As soon as it's done... I will definitely be posting it.

Wedding Night Booked!

2008-08-10T21:03:00.000-07:00

Where to stay? Why does getting married require answers to so many questions? First it was Bridemaids dresses, then invitations, and last but not least... Shoes. During this whole time, I have also been considering where to stay on our wedding night. You would think this would be an easy decision. All you need is a decent hotel with clean sheets and no bugs, but for once... I will be arriving in a Wedding Dress! Not the day to plan on staying at the Hotel 6 or the Red Roof Inn.

You need a hotel with style, a grand entrance, valet parking, and close to the reception site. I have had several hotels in mind.

The Madison - www.madisonhotelmemphis.com
The Doubletree Downtown Memphis - http://doubletree1.hilton.com/en_US/dt/hotel/MEMDNDT-Doubletree-Hotel-Memphis-Downtown-Tennessee/index.do
The Peabody - http://www.peabodymemphis.com/home.cfm
The Inn at Hunt Phelan - http://huntphelan.com/

Well... some are now not available. All booked up and others have irritated me (no surprise here... Hunt Phelan!)

We have decided on the only one left - The Peabody!

An interesting fact: My maternal grandparents and my maternal great grandparents both spent their wedding nights at the Peabody! Both had wonderful marriages! I can only hope for the same.

Peabody here we come!

I decided to go with traditional my grandparent and my great-grandparents both spent their wedding night at the... (wait for it)... The Peabody!

Seriously... It's a pair of shoes!

2008-08-07T06:05:00.000-07:00

As I continue the hunt for what have envisioned as the perfect wedding shoe, I have stumbled across many a shoe website. And being a good girlfriend, I thought I would pass them along to you. I have seen some phenomenal shoes at even better prices!

www.like.com - I can not recommend this site enough. Very user friendly and a whole lotta shoes... The site even has a "visual search". I love all the search able options they give you. Perfect when you know exactly what you need. (like wedding shoes) You will also notice $15 shoes listed beside $595 shoes. Very wide selection.

www.makemechic.com - Really cute fun and funky shoes. This site is a bit young... but aren't we all young at heart. The prices can't be beat. Definitely keep an eye on the shoe details. Some of these aren't always as new as you might like them to be. Also, if you are phobic about your shoe boxes, this might not be a site for you. Some shoes do not come in their original box! Heaven forbid! Anyway... just FYI. Oh... this fall I will be buying some of the fun boots they have!

www.zappos.com - I have purchased and returned shoes from this site. Very friendly and very professional. It's not my favorite site for getting around in, but I can't stress how easy returning a pair of shoes was. You can buy and feel comfortable knowing that if they don't fit, don't look right on your feet, aren't the right color... so on and so on... You can ship them back (at no cost to you) and they will credit you back for the full price! Love no pressure buying.

Happy shoe buying!

It's Forever - Engraving your rings

2008-08-05T16:12:00.000-07:00

It's time to order our wedding bands and I started thinking about what to have engraved on Joseph's. As usual, I took a casual poll at work of who's ring was engraved and with what. I was surprised by the number that weren't engraved and I was really surprised by the number of husbands that didn't remember what was on the ring. Several had to actually take off their rings to read it to me.

I have flipped and flopped on this quite a bit... sweet or funny or sweet & funny.

Here are some of my favorites....

You complete me (date)
I love you... Now put the ring back on!
Nothing else matters
It's me and you honey bunch
Lets grow old together
You are SO mine
Soulmates (date)
Do or do not, there is no try
I made a wish and you came true.
You’re the music!
I'm not done with you yet!
Mine, all mine!
My dream came true...
A lifetime is all that I need...
Wrapped around you forever
Resistance is Futile
Everything I've ever wanted
Home is where we are...
Forever isn’t long enough...
If removed, alarm will sound.

Pamperring yourself for your big day (Cue the Fish)

2008-07-31T08:24:00.000-07:00

I couldn't help but pass this along!

I found this on "OurWeddingDay.Com Blog"

So called “fish pedicures” have been stirring things up lately. Originating in Virginia by John Ho, owner of the Yvonne Hair and Nails salon, this treatment allows fish to nibble the dead skin cells right off your feet.

Some people swear by it, claiming it makes their feet smoother and prettier than a traditional pedicure ever had!

I don't know if I will be trying this out any time soon, but it does make for an interesting picture to include in your Wedding Scrap book!

Bring on the fishies... please no piranhas! Thanks...

Full AP article: ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5hzJgRAaYCJMvjh98hAk45as3DPgwD9226PM80

Any advice on planning a wedding?

2008-07-28T19:51:00.001-07:00

There are so many little things that make for a great wedding. I have tried to remember them all, but I haven't attended that many weddings and know I have missed most of them.

Here is a short list of little things that make for a great wedding/happy bride:

Bunny Toss - Tossing a small stuffed animal to the younger reception attendees.

The Wedding Dress Label - Having a personalized label made with your full name or maiden initials with your wedding date embroidered on the ribbon.

Monogrammed Drink Sticks - Drink sticks with a flat head that have been manufactured with your initials - Bride's first name and the Groom's first name.

Antique Bird Cage - Instead of purchasing a card box or money bag, you can use an antique or reproduction Bird Cage.

Perfect Bridal Shoes - Christian Louboutin's! (Just another excuse to mention these awesome shoes yet again!)

Dancing Shoes Available - Offering dancing shoes to your guests. You are guaranteed to have all your guest dancing if you offer comfy flip-flops in various sizes next to the dance floor!

What are the some of the little things you have noticed at a wedding?

Any advise you have to pass along to me would be worth millions to me. Speak up!

Wedding linens - Monogrammed Cake Table Runner

2008-07-28T19:32:00.000-07:00

I thought this was just gorgeous and something that never crossed my mind when I started planning my wedding.

There are various sites out there that offer these runners or table clothes.

Filligree Monogram Designs has a great selection of fonts and other coordinating items such as napkins. www.filigreemonograms.com

I am still on the search for monogrammed hankies! I do love a hankie.

The Battenburg Lace shop has some of the best handkerchiefs I have ever seen (thelaceshop.stores.yahoo.net/wedhan.html).

Dillard's & Tabasco

2008-07-28T19:15:00.000-07:00

I was excited to receive a call from a great friend at Dillard's. Unbelievably, Dillard's has a whole table dedicated to Tabasco products - hot sauces, glasses, lights, plates, other decorative items... Very cool.

The display even brought out the idea of having our personalized mini Tabasco bottles tied with a ribbon and favor tag hanging for a small tree on Christmas ornament hooks. The base of the tree would also have various Tabasco bottles as well as the favors!

How cute! I can't wait...

For the perfect "hot" personalized wedding favor, hit http://www.tabasco.com/ and visit the country store. They have everything Tabasco!

Wedding day lingerie - possible websites

2008-07-28T17:47:00.000-07:00

I have found the following sites that look promising for both Bridal lingerie.

I am so hoping I won't need to be stuffed into my dress using every ounce of spandex and bodyshaper technology on the plant! I would also love to not have to wear control top panty hose either...

I found these sites which each had some great items. Some were a bit more expensive than others. $100 thongs? Ouch!

Also, I hope Joseph never googles "Bridal Lingerie" because... well, just never let your man search "bridal lingerie". I feel a bit dirty. The models are incredibly thin and look great in the lingerie! I know that's great marketing but... I will never look that good in it.

These sites offer nice selections:

Pampered Passions Fine Lingerie (www.pamperedpassions.com)

Lingerie Diva (www.lingeriediva.com)

Bare Necessities (www.barenecessities.com)

And of course, Victoria Secret's (www.victoriasecrets.com) I actually found a nice sweet "Just Married" undies on this site that I am highly considering.

.... is this appropriate blogging material? Maybe I will switch back to Cake Toppers and stuff.

The perfect bridal shoe... where are you?

2008-07-28T17:35:00.000-07:00

Recently, I purchased online a pair of very cute bridal shoes. I was happy with them, but they were a bit too big and well... I had doubts... maybe even a regret or two. The website (http://www.zappos.com/) has a wonderful return policy and I took advantage of it. I returned my shoes. I would highly recommend this site for shoes. I just know if buying shoes online is for me personally. Definitely check out the site, it's worth the visit.

This might be a purchase that needs to be made in person.

SO.... Help! Keep an eye out for ivory peep toe pumps in town. I would like to try and purchase my next pair in person. And... I have a time limit. My first dress fitting is on Saturday, September 6th.

NOTE: For your first fitting whether the bride or a bridesmaid, you will need to bring the shoes you will be wearing along with the lingerie for that day. Also, it's nice if you are at the weight/size you will be at for the big day.

No food for a month for this bride. I am about 15 pounds short of my goal. Ideally, I would reach my goal prior to my first fitting, but ideally, I would have the Christian Louboutin's in hand as well. We will have to see which one I actually get.

Do I smell another reason to post a picture of those shoes.... YES!!!!!!!

Reminders are just a click away

2008-07-27T21:00:00.000-07:00

Blogspot has added a new function and how great it is!

Subscribe to my blog! And never get caught not in the know!

Click on the link!

Measurements taken... time will tell!

2008-07-27T20:50:00.001-07:00

On Friday, I had my measurements taken at the gym! Bust, hips, waist, thighs, arms and calves! Time is running out for me. My first fitting for my wedding dress is on September 6th!

No more fried food and bring on the cardio!

I plan on getting my measurements taken each Friday. I will keep you posted and long live protein!

It's a Bunny Toss!

2008-07-27T20:35:00.000-07:00

How many weddings have you gone to that when it came time for the Bride to toss the bouquet, the average age of the participates was 10 years old?

I have been to more than 4 weddings wear the bouquet was caught by someone under 10!

What... They are going to get married before me?

How depressing it that?

Last summer I went to a wedding and the bouquet was caught be a 12 year old BOY! Thank goodness my mother wasn't there! She would have given up at that point.

I made a promise to myself 6 years ago (yet another awful bouquet toss) at my wedding, there would be an age requirement! I have found another way... A Bunny Toss!

Instead of only tossing the bouquet, you start by inviting all the kids on to the dance floor and you toss a stuffed animal. After that, you invited all the single women out for the actual bouquet toss. This makes for happy bridesmaids and happy mothers!

First Dance isn't the only dance!

2008-07-27T20:03:00.001-07:00

As announced in prior postings, we have decided on our "First Dance" song - As Time Goes By. But... today, I was thinking... hmm... there is more than just one dance. What other songs will we need to choose?

Here is a general list of songs you might need for your reception:

Bridal Party Introduction
Bride/Groom First Dance
Father/Daughter(Bride) Dance
Mom/Son (Groom) Dance
Bride's Parent's Dance
Groom's Parent's Dance
Grandparent's Dance
Cake Cutting
Bouquet Toss
Garter Toss
Anniversary Song for all married couples
Last song of the night

Wow.... that's a lot of songs to pick. I am hoping the band will help with providing a list of songs they suggest. After all the time spent on the first dance selection, I am not looking for to selecting the others.

Wedding Dress Labels

2008-07-27T19:39:00.000-07:00

Again after a good long search on the net, I finally found the perfect website for personalized wedding dress labels! Score!

You ask... Wedding Dress Label, why do you need that?

Well, do I truly need everything I purchase or blog about? No... but that doesn't keep me from it! I am bride hear me charge!

I can't wait for it to get here!

The website is The Gartermaker (http://www.thegartermaker.com/). They have wonderful embroidery items.

HISTORY OF THE WEDDING DRESS LABEL (From thegartermaker.com):

In the 20’s and 30’s, couture gown designers starting designing personalized labels for their clients, and attaching them inside the gowns. Now brides can use this special touch to make wedding gowns truly their own. When the tradition of labels for wedding gowns started, it was seen as the last time a bride would use her maiden name. So the bride’s full maiden name and wedding date was sewn into the gown.

These labels are sewn into your wedding gowns lining at the hem, or inside the top of the gown, where a typical clothing label would go. They can be sewn in any color, but are most commonly done in blue for the traditional “Something Blue.” They can even be sewn as a pocket to hold something special, like a good luck charm, or other precious item that you want to have with you on your wedding day.

After the wedding, the label becomes a memento for future generations to have the name and date from the day the dress was worn. This is a special touch for a dress that will be handed down. And if you decide not to keep the dress, the label can be removed, and kept as a memento of the gown-perhaps to be placed in your wedding scrapbook, next to a picture of the dress.

Whatever you choose to have stitched on the label, it is a wonderful way to make “The Dress” truly your own.

Go big or go home!

2008-07-25T22:55:00.000-07:00

To chav and to hold - bride's 19-stone bling dress
By Kate Jackson Kate.Jackson@Mirror.Co.Uk 9/08/2007

(Side note: "Chavs” is the English equivalent of a “hoochie mama” or “white trash”)

Catrina Nolan's wedding EXCLUSIVE

Bride's colossal crystal-encrusted dress is a real aisle-opener
Some people's marriages are over quicker than the time it took Catrina Nolan to get in and out of her wedding car.

Four people - all shouting "Push!" - needed a whole hour to haul the blushing bride on to her belly and roll her in and out of the vehicle.

If you don't believe.... here's the link to the video! http://shesoghetto.wordpress.com/2008/03/31/wedding-day-no-nos-tackiest-wedding-ever/

Yet Catrina wasn't overweight... her dress was an incredible 19 stone. (For those of us in the US and measure weight in pounds... 19 stone is approx 266 pounds!!!!!!)

"It wasn't dignified but I just wanted my dress to be different," says Catrina, 18. "I wanted something that would stand out."

It certainly did. In fact her wedding was probably visible from space.

Her gown, which cost £6,000 was a mammoth 40ft wide and made up of a dozen different materials including satin, feathers and lace, and an astonishing 20 layers of underskirts.

Catrina says: "The bodice was made up of Swarovski crystals. One side is half a star and the other is half a love-heart. It had all frills and ruffles on the skirt, it was really fantastic."

Catrina's three bridesmaids - her sisters Margarita, 16, and Nelena, 11, and John's sister Roseanne Nolan, 16 - wore satin pink corsets and skirts, with matching caps.

"It was about being funky," says Catrina, who stars in ITV1's Britain's Youngest Brides.

"They loved the outfits."

But walking down the aisle wasn't quite so funky.

"When I got to the church it took 10 minutes to get to the door when it would normally take two seconds," says Catrina, from Queensferry, North Wales.

"My brother Philip gave me away and he had to glide me down the aisle because I couldn't walk properly myself. It was really, really heavy. When I got to the reception I had to take off half the underskirts because it was getting too much."

And groom John, 20, who lays paving for a living, says: "Catrina looked amazing, I'll never forget seeing her walk down the aisle."

We bet he won't.

The DRESS..

Cost£6,000 (approx $12,000)
50,000 Swarovski crystals
20 underskirts
3 weeks to make
90 minutes to put on
12 types of fabric
19 stone in weight
40 feet wide
Britain's Youngest Brides, ITV1, 9pm - see We Love Telly!

Head or Tail... Veils for all sides?

2008-07-25T22:15:00.000-07:00

With my first fitting for my wedding dress just over a month away, I have been spending a significant amount of time surfing for the perfect undergarments for my big day. It's underwear... I mean seriously... how hard can it be to find the perfect undies for my big day?

About 4 hours worth of surfing and nothing worth buying, but definitely something worth blogging!

Veils for undies! Yes, I have found numerous sites with Bridal underwear with veils! Just in case wearing one veil wasn't enough. It's clearly a niche market, but it must be popular. There are tons of variations... short, long, white, baby blue, lace, sheer, wide, thin...

Well... hopefully, I won't lose my blogging privileges.... but here is pic of this new trend!

Birdal Party Tees - The Funniest Bridal Tees Ever

2008-07-25T21:43:00.000-07:00

So I just found this website and yes, I think I pee'd my pants. They have the funniest tees and undies I have EVER seen. Some are a bit racy... but fun.

Please be advised...

I am not suggesting in any shape fashion or form that I would ever, ever wear any or ask anyone I know to wear items I have posted; however, they are very funny... especially if you are not wearing them! ha

The prices aren't too bad for the custom items. The site actually allows you to customize each item. You are in control of the font style, size, color... You pick from several tees, undies... or whatever item you are printing on. You can even upload your own image. I played around with it and can only say... it was intense! I have been surfing the net for a few hours now ... so it might not be that intense so to speak.

Make sure to check out the promo option. They are currently offering a Promo tee which is free if you have the promo code from Bridal show or you can pay the discounted $9.97.

Very cool... Funny stuff and .... I am not wearing a Tee that has the words "Save A Horse"!

Dress - Check... Tux - Undecided?

2008-07-24T08:59:00.000-07:00

What is wrong with this picture?

Bride goes shopping for her "big day" dress. The dress she had been waiting to wear for what... 20 years! She goes to the bridal shop (given probably the best one in the Mid-South, Low's Bridal and no that's not Lowe's Home Improvement Store!... Anyway). She selects her dress. Total shops = 1 Total time = 3 hrs

Groom goes shopping for his "big day" tux. He goes to one shop... They don't have what he is looking for... He goes to another shop... No nothing... Just the same... Boring Prom Tux! Note picture... It's just .... there! Nothing really special... Blah. Don't blame him for not getting excited over it.

Be careful when helping select Groom's tux, if you go to too many stores, he will just pick anything. I figure I have one more store left before this happens. I have every intention of making a preliminary visit before the Groom is disappointed yet again.

Anyway the whole point...

Who knew that it would be harder for him to find his "big day" tux than my "big day" dress! So, in the future, just remember, those items on the list you think will be way easy (such as finding the Groom's tux) won't be.

I want Joseph to be happy so we will continue the search. I don't want him to settle on a tux. He's only getting married once too!

Below is the style he is looking for and we will find it, but probably at higher end stores. We are trying Gingiss Formalwear next!

Bridesmaid accessories - where or where are the quantities?

2008-07-24T08:40:00.000-07:00

I have been looking for a particular style and color of necklace for about 6 months now. It wasn't until recently that I found out that stores like Macy's and Dillard's don't carry large quantities of necklaces. When I was told they didn't carry "large quantities", I was thinking oh... they don't buy 20 of the same necklace. That was fine by me. I only had 4 bridesmaids... I only need 4 necklaces!

Well... they usually only buy 3 or 4 of one particular style! What... I had no clue! So, when you put on your favorite necklace, just think... you are 1 or only 3 or 4 people in Memphis who has that necklace!

Luckily, there are other options! Memphis has a wonderful wholesale jewelry store on Summer called Jun Lee. There is a minimum purchase of $30, but you can blow through that really easy.

Also, thanks to a neighbor who has passes (should be called permission slips!) to jewelry trade show coming the first weekend in August. This Bride will be attending the "Memphis Gift and Jewelry Show"! Very excited about it!

SHOW INFORMATION

The Memphis Gift & Jewelry Show is a cash and carry show as well as order writing.
This popular Midwest market made its debut in 1974 and has become a Must for wholesale buyers from this region. This market attracts 10,000 Buyers and has 350 Booths.
The Memphis Gift & Jewelry Show, August 2-5, 2008, is held at the Memphis-Cook Convention Center, Main Hall, 255 N. Main Street, Memphis, Tennessee.
There is no admission fee for Qualified Buyers.

You should see the rule and qualifications you have to meet just to attend! Amazing... I am definitely taking her up on the opportunity to go!

Keep your fingers crossed I score big.

Feel free to check out the Cook Convention & trade show websites for details. You might be able to attend too... but it won't be easy.

http://www.gift2jewelry.com/g2j/online?command=tradeshow.start&code=M2

French Riviera Memphis Discount/Reduced Rate!

2008-07-22T14:57:00.000-07:00

A little bird just told me that the French Riviera - Memphis is running a special on membership fees. It's a big summer blow out sale!

Membership starting at $25 down and $25 a month until August 22nd. My favorite guy at the French Riviera is Shaun Parker (901-628-0318)! He's the best and a really nice guy... not creepy if you know what I mean. I am not sure if it's all locations, but I know it's for the location at Poplar and Highland.

After August 22nd, it goes back to the regular rate of $150 down and $30 a month... Ouch!

If you are interested in a discounted rate at the French Riviera... call Shaun Parker (901-628-0318). He will make sure you get the discounted rate.

Do NOT register at Ta*get! Don't do it!

2008-07-20T15:13:00.000-07:00

Several people had mentioned to me that I might not want to register at Ta*get. The stories they had to tell where just awful. The treatment of the brides... just horrific!

I took their advise and didn't register at Ta*get. I was tempted... thought long and hard about it. Had even thought that I might add Target registry as the wedding date neared.

Yesterday, I was returning a pair of rather expensive sunglasses. I didn't bother looking at the price in the store, but when I realized they were $20 plus... they had to go back.

I walk into the store and the line at the return desk was pretty long. Someone was clearing holding up the line. A Bride was returning a few large items, but they were not letting her. She was very upset... tears were starting to fall! They wouldn't take her returns.

She had received several duplicate items from her registry and was requesting store credit for the items. She did not have the gift receipts. She was pointing to her registry showing the clerk where the items had been purchased. They didn't care. No gift receipt, No return.

I left... I just couldn't watch any longer! She was a fellow Bride... That could have been me!

About 30 minutes later, I walked back over to check on the situation... She was still there! Fully crying and no one care. I walked away... couldn't watch! When I turned to leave, I noticed one of the managers who had been speaking with her earlier. I stopped him and asked what was going on. He told me she didn't have gift receipts. I said, "But she's registered here and is returning items from her registry!" He said without a gift receipt they would not return items. He then stated,

"I got married 2 years ago and we asked on the invitations that gift receipts be provide"...

You're kidding me... right? "No, I am serious. I work in retail."

Wonder why he didn't just put "Cash only!" on the invitations!

I made sure he knew I had seen how they treated the poor bride and that as a bride I would NOT be registering with Ta*get!

You can't treat your customers like that! She was crying and no one cared...

DO NOT REGISTER AT TARGET FOR ANYTHING... IT'S NOT WORTH IT!

Check out the number of complaints with a Google search! WOW!

I googled "ta*get store bridal registry return policy" thinking I would find out exactly what the policy was... on NO... just page after page of complaints!

Everything Bridal... Even too much for me to look at!

2008-07-14T22:31:00.000-07:00

You have to check out this website... They have more bridal items than even I can taken in during one sitting! I will have to revisit this website another day... WOW!

Check it out... lots of stuff...

http://www.advantagebridal.com/index.html

It's going to happen so... I have to be tacky!

2008-07-14T21:58:00.001-07:00

I have to have one of these in white!

And I want it to say...

D-Day has arrived
October 25, 2008

in Tiffany Blue!

Too too cute! I know some might think it's tacky, but I just have to have to have it!

http://commerce.idmi.net/ecommerce/catalog_detail.asp?CID=121&CI=335&PI=32724

Updo... Might need to buy some hair!

2008-07-14T21:28:00.000-07:00

http://www.modelbride.com/content/view.php?content_id=005485&category_id=007308

Here's the link to a hair style I would love to have... but I might need to buy me some hair!

And if I need to buy it... Here it is...

http://www.modelbride.com/product/017740.shtml

This will probably be better... You send them samples of your hair and they custom dye it to match! How cool...

http://www.modelbride.com/product/017738.shtml

Found the perfect "My Wedding Shoes" keepsack bag

2008-07-07T22:23:00.001-07:00

I might not have found the perfect wedding shoes, but I have found the perfect wedding shoes keepsake bag! How adorable is this....

http://www.americanbridal.com/shoe-bag-set-gbr448.html

How cute would a pair of Christian Louboutin's be in this? (just another reason to post the pic)

Have you ordered your dress?

2008-07-07T22:01:00.000-07:00

This goes out to all the Bridesmaids: Have you ordered your dress? If not, it's really, really easy. You need to call Low's Bridal and ask for Lana. When we visited the shop and everyone tried on the dress, Lana wrote down all the information.

Low's Bridal & Formal Shoppe
127 West Cedar Street
Brinkley, AR 72021
(870) 734-3244

This goes out to all the other Beautiful Women in my life: I can't forget you either. Please feel free to use me as an excuse to buy a beautiful dress for my wedding. Something that you can dance in! It's probably a bit early... but I didn't want anyone to be felt left out of any possible "Bridezilla" leanings in this post!

Love and Kisses....

Choosing a song for the first dance

2008-07-07T21:46:00.001-07:00

Joseph and I have researched and joked about the first dance song selection. Everything from Al Green to the Rolling Stones, Billy Joel to Norah Jones, Nat King Cole to AC/DC, Air Supply to Lynard Syknard... You get the point!

The words ... I am putting down my foot... were uttered today by Joseph. His selection and a song I love as well...

(Insert Drum Roll)... Hmmm... bet I could insert a drum roll. I do love blogspot!

As Time Goes By as featured in the movie Casablanca!

The lyrics are (and no I didn't get a print license... I am a Bridezilla)

You must remember this
A kiss is just a kiss,
a sigh is just a sigh.
The fundamental things apply
As time goes by.

And when two lovers woo
They still say, "I love you."
On that you can rely
No matter what the future brings
As time goes by.

Moonlight and love songs
Never out of date.
Hearts full of passion
Jealousy and hate.
Woman needs man
And man must have his mate
That no one can deny.

It's still the same old story
A fight for love and glory
A case of do or die.
The world will always welcome lovers
As time goes by.

Oh yes, the world will always welcome lovers
As time goes by.

Bubbles AND Bells - too much?

2008-07-07T21:37:00.001-07:00

I found 125 bubbles at a yard sale a few weeks ago for super cheap. I almost felt guilty. And yes I made sure to ask about any possible Karma surround said bubbles. I was promised only good karma!

Well, am I sure I don't want wedding bells? Sure they don't show up in pictures very well and I have been told by a retired professional wedding photographer (Aimee) that bubbles take beautiful pictures. But...

Can I have both? Wherebridesgo.com has 24 bells for $15.95.

I also found "Ring for a Kiss" bells that are very cute. (no size information provided... how mini is mini? the price is very mini!) Littlethingsfavors.com has these Mini bells - 24 pack for $4.00!!!!!!

I just don't know... So many decisions and only 1 day! The stress!

Wedding Signs... and a bad memory...

2008-07-07T21:30:00.000-07:00

Wedding Signs... and a bad memory...

So why am I posting about wedding signs? The parking lot for the church is in the back. People tend to walk in the back door. Not cool.

Months ago I addressed the problem with... a wedding sign!

I love the Internet! I found a website that sells the signs for $5.75.

With the bad memory I have... I decided to post about it. The website is wherebridesgo.com!

http://www.wherebridesgo.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=W&Product_Code=WS-905s&Product_Count=35&Category_Code=DECOR

Where is the remote?

2008-07-07T20:32:00.000-07:00

I have got to stop watching "Platinum Weddings"!

Please help me stop...

My wedding budget can't take it!

Oh Almost Perfect Shoe... where are you?

2008-07-05T21:17:00.000-07:00

We all know what my favorite bridal shoe is... see Christian Louboutin! But I haven't been able to find them. Evidently they are out of production, but I can't get these shoes out of my head! I have even gone as far as to setup a "Favorite Search" on eBay. Keep your fingers crossed, ladies.... I will need a little luck and a whole lot of cash!

Any way, I have also started my search for the almost perfect bridal shoe.

I have found a few contenders but none that had me pulling out the AmEx. I did love the Bridal shoe by Coloriffics - Sassy but classy as well.

The review on this particular shoe was pretty good. The heel is 2.5 inches which isn't too high. Too many days at Ardent has spoiled my feet when it comes to high heels. The price on this shoe is also very good at $75 including shipping (http://www.zappos.com/).

(**** UPDATE - I have added a close up picture of the heel with the bow and chrystals! What do you think... Likey or Hatey????)

I have a pair of shoes similar to these in black with no bow. My toes look cute in those so... you would think my toes would look cute in these as well. As some of you might know, I like to have a bit of support around my toes. If not, they tend to look like off ramps on 240! Not very bridal at all.

Tommie can attest to this. She got me to try on a pair of sandels with the singel strap around the big toe... Big Mistake!

Now here is a pair of shoes anyone would kill for - Jimmy Choos! Love the something blue chrystals. No... I didn't look at the price nor did I try to buy them... I am sure they will be as hard to find as the Louboutin's.

Side Note: Promiscuous Bridal Shoes... I am serious! This shoe is called Promiscuous! Talk about starting out on the wrong foot!

Honeymoon Booked - Riviera Maya Mexico

2008-07-05T21:11:00.000-07:00

We finally decided on a location and a resort - Riviera Maya, Mexico - El Dorado Seaside Suites Resort and Spa

Voted one of Forbes' "Top Ten Most Romantic Hotels in The World", El Dorado Seaside Suites offers barefoot elegance, beach butlers and signature Beachfront Sky Massages in an adults-only setting where couples, weddings and honeymooners will savor their Gourmet Inclusive experience, an El Dorado Seaside Suites vacation that truly fosters togetherness.

Sounds like paradise!

Registering has begun... not as fun as you think!

2008-07-05T14:40:00.000-07:00

Joseph and I started the registering process a few days ago. We registered with Bed Bath and Beyond. You know, it wasn't' as fun as I thought it would be. It was very stressful! I know what I would love to have, but I kept feeling bad about asking someone else to buy it for me.

For example, I would love to have an ice cream maker. BBB had two models: one for $79.99 and one for $20 less. I registered for the $59.99. Should I have registered for the one I really like and say "screw the price"?

Also we registered for about 55 items. They recommend that you register for two gifts for every invitation you send. So we need to register for approximately 400 items. 55 down 345 to go! Wow... that's alot of "beep, beep, beep"s.

We are registering at Bed Bath and Beyond, Macy's and Lowe's.

We will not be registering at Target. They have made recently changes to their return policies for Wedding Registries. The restrictions are brutal and not worth the effort. We have taken the advise of other Brides and Grooms and are staying away from Target.

Teeth Whitening! Just another item to check off the list.

2008-07-05T14:10:00.000-07:00

So I have been looking into Teeth Whitening and have found lots of information and probably even more dis-information on the subject. I finally found a few reliable sources and have come away with some opinions on the subject.

However, I am still confused on the "Celebrity Sexy Teeth". I have been tempted to purchase it (even with it's large price tag), but there are a ton of sites that have labeled it a Scam... but there are also a ton saying great things.... Better safe than sorry... I am going with Scam!

My thoughts...

Most sites have said that professional teeth-whitening is the way to go if you want dramatic, long-lasting results and convenience. It's the most expensive way to go as well... Please refer to the "you get what you pay for" slogan! I have had Zoom done... I didn't care for it and I didn't like the way it made me look like a used car salesman for a week or so. I also have lines in my teeth from medications I took as a child which are made very noticeable by Zoom bleaching. I agree it works great,but it's not for me.

Crest Whitestrips Premium and Classic win good reviews for over-the-counter effectiveness and convenience. I found pretty much everyone agreed these worked pretty well for what they are. It's reasonably priced and worth a try.

Crest Whiterstrips will be my first attempt. Hopefully, I will happy with the results. Some testers notice better results with overnight products that are left on the teeth longer, like Crest Night Effects.

Whitening chewing gums, like Trident White and Aquafresh Whitening Gum, may be an option if you already enjoy chewing gum, but they're not nearly as effective as bleaching agents. I am not really big on chewing gum, but if you are, these seems to be a no brainer.

Other sites recommended: GoSmile which is expensive, but testers like that the paint-on formula can get to areas that strips can’t reach. GoSmile has an advantage in that the gel does not have to be removed.

I will probably start my teeth whitening routine by August 1st.

Stopping by the Racquet Club

2008-07-05T13:30:00.000-07:00

My florist, Susan's Flowers, called recently and asked if I would like to come by and see a few arrangements she had done for a wedding reception at the Racquet Club. What a wonderful opportunity... I took her up on it. Unfortunately, Joseph had to work, but I hoodwinked Brandon into going with me. When we showed up at the club, we felt like wedding crashes!

I look a few pictures of the different arrangements she had. The type of flowers used in the arrangements were definitely not my favorite nor something we would have chosen. We are going more for the fall theme with darker richer colors. Not so big on the pink roses!

I really like the caged arrangement. Judgement still out on the tree branch arrangement. I wish I had been able to stay and see the arrangements while surrounded by the guests.

Hot sauce for favors.... has she lost her mind?

2008-07-04T21:05:00.000-07:00

Some of you might not know.... but... the Groom has a love of hot sauce. At first, I wasn't real sure how I felt about it. He has over 20 different bottles of hot sauce from all of the world made from all types of peppers! But seriously... it's hot sauce... Who am I to judge when I have added to his collection on occasion and well.... I do have a Barbie! So anyway....

At the engagement party, he even asked for me to set out a select few for placement on the table. He's very proud of his vast collection.

Anyway, given the love he has for hot sauce and the occasional viewing of "Ace of Cakes", I thought it would be rather fun to have his groom's cake be a 3 dimensional Tabasco Bottle. With a bit of searching, I did find a baker in town confident in her ability to handle the task.

During our interview, I made sure she understood I didn't want a sheet cake with a Tabasco bottle painted on it, but a cake shaped in the form of an actual Tabasco bottle! She loved the idea and is really excited to work on it.

It's not your typical groom's cake, but I think it will be great and big time fun!

This is definitely a secret so no telling the groom! And yes, I know I just put it on the net under my blog... but really seriously... do you think he actually reads this?

Personalized TABASCO® Miniatures

2008-07-04T20:58:00.000-07:00

How Perfect Is This?????

All it needs is a wedding monogram! hahaha

Looks like the mini Tabasco bottles are definitely on and I even found that Tabasco will personalize each bottle. My only wish is they were a bit bigger. They only stand at a bit less the 3 inches! The miniature bottles are 1/8-oz. bottles... very very small.

You might have seen them around. I have gotten them before when ordering to go food from The Bayou and other places.

They are reasonably priced and ship in 4 to 6 weeks!

PS... Someone please remind me to order them!

Perfect Cake Toppers... Can I borrow $800?

2008-06-27T14:34:00.000-07:00

I have found the perfect cake toppers!

Visit the Paris tiaras website: www.paristiaras.com

They have beautifully crafted items! Look at their other items too....

Bridal shoes... Style or Comfort?

2008-06-27T14:06:00.000-07:00

So I have the dress. Mark that off the list! BUT... what about the shoes?

The question comes down to Style or Comfort!

Now remember... The dress will definitely hide the shoes the majority of the time, but does that mean I should skimp on the shoes... I think not!

If the question... Style or Comfort has to be asked....

Can it not be answered by... Buying two pairs?

Ha... Keep your eyes out for the Christian Louboutin special Bridal shoes... I don't care if they have 4 inch heels!

Yes this is the second time I have posted this picture.... put just look at them! They deserve a second posting.

Has Barbie found her Ken?

2008-06-27T13:59:00.000-07:00

He has hair... I am not sure how she feels about that, but it might rub off! They are a pretty cute couple.

And Barbie demands custom invitations!

2008-06-27T13:40:00.000-07:00

Barbie might look pleased in this picture, but don't be fooled by that painted on smile. She's not happy... she's actually very disappointed and... just about to settle for something she's not thrilled about.

Since early January 08, we have spent hours upon hours on the net looking at wedding invitations. I was more concerned about the wedding invitations than my dress... how sad is that?

I guess I knew I would find the perfect dress, but the perfect invitation... Is that like looking for the world peace or the Loch Ness monster? At this point, I think either would have been easier to find. I know I have personally looked at over 1,000 invitations without finding the perfect one.

At one point, I even thought I had found "it". Thank goodness, I had been given wise advise to purchase a sample especially if ordering online. I took the advise and ordered the sample.

Was I disappointed?? That's a big H-E-Double hockey stick YES! The $8 dollars I spent on the sample was oh oh so worth it. I just don't even know what I would have done if I had simply placed my order and spent hundreds on awful invitations! I would have been inconsolable. Heart broken.

Lindsay, my very wise in the wedding ways friend, has once again pointed me down the path of salvation!

Lemon Tree Paper! A Memphis company run by a charming lady named also named Lindsey. Yesterday, I sat down with Lindsey to discuss what I had envisioned my invitations would look like... Bless her heart, sometimes I don't make a whole lot of sense. But she got the picture! Stay tuned... but I think I found world peace! Keep your fingers crossed.

Check out her website... it's amazing! www.lemontreepaper.com

Engagement Party Big Success!

2008-06-25T06:28:00.000-07:00

The Engagement Party went off without any major hickups... (Don't say anything about no bread with the chicken to Tommie!)

The parents went beyond the call of duty! Moving in on Wednesday night and staying through Sunday. They cleaned, they organized, they arranged, they picked up, they.... well did all I needed them to do and more! Needless to say, my house has never been this clean or looked this great!

Tommie also moved in on Friday afternoon. She too put her heart into it. Emily also came over both Friday night and Saturday morning! She did a beautiful job on the watermelon basket.

This party would never have been such a success without the help of my family and my friends! Thank you again for all the hard work... Love ya...

So... to the pictures...

Wedding Monogram?

2008-06-13T13:35:00.001-07:00

I just learned about Wedding Monograms! Pretty cool huh? Question is .... Do we need a Wedding Monogram?

Check out their other styles by visiting their website, www.momentsofelegance.com

The Band is booked!

2008-06-12T20:43:00.000-07:00

DMP

Style(s): 80's , Disco , Hip Hop , Oldies , R&B , Soul , Top 40

Exclusively represented by RAM Entertainment. An 8 or 10 piece band! DMP consists of 1 male lead vocal, 2 keyboard players, drums, bass & 3 female backup singers! Add the 2 piece horn section to really round out the sound!

The newest and hottest party band on the scene today! This band will keep your guests on their feet all night long! Playing all of the hits of yesterday and today! From Al Green to Prince to Earth, Wind & Fire to Usher - they hit them all!

“DMP were amazing! They have so much energy and are so fun! Their music selections were perfect for all ages. People are still talking about how much fun they had. We had planned to leave the reception earlier, but couldn't get off the dance floor. The demo on the website doesn't even compare to how great they sound. Russ and Belle made the whole booking process so easy and worry free. We could not have been more pleased.” BETHANY & ROB HEMBREEWEDDING RECEPTION

"The DMP Band absolutely ROCKED!!! Everybody had the best time at our wedding with them; Andy and I can't even begin to thank them enough for their performance. Even my mother was on the dance floor. NUMEROUS people asked us who they were and where they were from, so you may be getting calls fairly soon about booking them again for other engagements. Thank you so much for everything, and the next time we need a band, you guys definitely be the ones we call." SHELLY HOGAN & ANDY KOEHLER WEDDING RECEPTION

"Belle, I just wanted to thank you and Russ for all your hard work in assisting me in choosing the perfect band for our wedding reception. I can not even begin to tell you how many compliments I received on how wonderful the DMP Band performed. I do not think that I have personally ever been to a wedding where so many of the guests were on the dance floor. The entire band was cordial and friendly and the lead singer obviously worked so hard to ensure we were all having a wonderful time. He was WONDERFUL!!! I would not only recommend the DMP Band to everyone for any event, I will keep them in mind for myself should I ever have another event. Thanks again for everything!!"AVERY MORRISON WEDDING RECEPTION

"It was by far the best that we could have asked for. DMP was absolutely amazing and very entertaining. We are on our honeymoon right now and called my dad (by the way the person who paid for the band) and all he could talk about was the band. Everyone loved DMP. We would recommend the band for anyone. Absolutely PERFECT." SMITH & BOB WILSONWEDDING RECEPTION

Double Impact (DMP) consists of the dynamic brother sensation Ja'Mon O'Neal Jones and Jeremy O'Bryan Jones. From the bluff city of Memphis, TN "Home of Blues and Birthplace of Rock and Roll," these brothers come from a family of singers and have been making a musical M-PAQ since the tender ages of two and four.

Dubbel M-PAC brings a unique brand of entertainment to the industry. These brothers come with the complete package reminiscent of a young Prince- original, diverse and hard hitting. Ja'Mon A.K.A. Valentine, is a 22 year old artist, songwriter, producer, engineer, keyboardists, guitarists, and drummer. His younger brother, Jeremy, 19, A.K.A. Majic the Melody Maker is an artists, songwriter, producer, guitarists, drummer, choreographer, and comedian. DMP has collaborated with some of the industry's best artists, including David Porter, Isaac Hayes and Larry Dodson of the Bar-Kays.

DMP's musical influences include Michael Jackson, Earth, Wind & Fire, Stevie Wonder, Usher, Prince, Marvin Gaye, Boyz II Men, Ludacris, Jay-Z, Joe, Sam& Dave, and Outcast. Throughout the last decade, Dubbel M-Paq has been performing in world-class venues not only in Memphis but in other major musical markets as well. Some of these markets include Atlanta, GA, Chicago, IL, Cleveland, OH, Detroit, MI, New York City, NY and various cities throughout California.

DMP has toured and performed with The Bar-Kays and also had the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge from behind the scenes experiences from artists such as Lakeside, Kool & the Gang, Confunkshun, The Gap Band, and The Temptations. Majic and Valentine were staff writers and producers for International Pocket records. In June of 2004 the duo joined with Key II Entertainment where their long awaited debut album, TRADED 51:15 was conceived. DMP believes in giving back to the community.

DMP has been fortunate to perform for charitable causes at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 10 Memphis City Schools, Stax Museum of American Soul Museum and Rust College. Dubbel M-PAQ brings dubbel the natural talent, dubbel the positive energy and dubbel the musical trouble to the national charts now and for years to come. Brace yourself for Dubbel M-Paq!

Invitation Options... Help needed!

2008-06-12T19:56:00.000-07:00

Wedding invitation final decision time! I need your help... please vote on your favorite!

Number 1 is a custom invitation by Pepperite.

Number 2 is unique, but kind of complicated! We would definitely need to order a sample from the company for review.

Number 3 is: With this invitation, you can NOT change the size of the invitation. It will be twice as tall as it is long. The invite is 4 by 8!

Number 4 is:

Number 5 is:
Website won't let me save the image... Click here:

http://www.1st-class-wedding-invitations.com/product-detail.aspx?i=WD5551&t=S

Number 6 is:
Yet another website that won't let me save the image... Please keep in mind with this invitation you can NOT change the colors... The invitations will be in Black and White with a Red bow.

http://www.finestationery.com/product.cfm?prod_id=66471&cm_thiscategory=3000001&cat_id=0&subcat_id=0&cat=0

Number 7 is yet another option. Please note this option can NOT be changed either. It will have to be Black and Cream with white accents.

Joseph and I on our wedding day... if we don't stop eating!

2008-06-10T11:16:00.000-07:00

Appointment for a Bridal Gown!

2008-05-31T01:44:00.000-07:00

During the third or fourth week in June, my mom and I will be making the trip to Low's in Brinkley, Arkansas to look for my wedding dress.

Can we just hope I lose 10 pounds before the appointment rolls around!

Even though I did check... the wedding dress can be sized down up to 4 dress sizes!

Sounds like I am golden on that... of course... there is no room to size up!

Don't feed the Bride!

Things you learn going to other weddings!

2008-05-31T01:37:00.000-07:00

So I totally invite myself to be any one's date when I find out they are going to a wedding! I mean it's research! And this time I really did take away something I hadn't thought to inquire about...

What happens when the drunk guy on the park bench just won't leave before your outside wedding starts... the guests have fun taking his picture!

Bride note: Ask that all "uninvited" guests we escorted off property 30 minutes prior to the wedding!

Why tailgating at the Bridal Shop is suggested!

2008-05-31T01:32:00.000-07:00

Because you'll find the perfect dress and get the perfect picture!

The Bridal Party Dines at The Brooks

2008-05-31T01:25:00.000-07:00

The Bridal party went to lunch at the Brooks last week. Cheers were made by all. The lunch was a bit...

ahhh... lacking which was very surprising. We are hoping it was just a bad day for the chef and kitchen staff at the Brooks.

We did get an awesome picture! Big smiles on everyone... or was that because we had the first alcoholic drink of the day in hand!

Before the reception we will definitely be hitting the Brooks again for lunch! Keep your fingers crossed...

It better be absolutely fabulous!

Bridesmaid dress selected!

2008-05-31T01:08:00.000-07:00

A sassy Ashley shows off her bridesmaid dress on my front porch!

After many many trips to various shops in Memphis, we all got together and took a trip to Brinkley, Arkansas - the home of Low's Bridal!

After a bit of tailgating in the parking lot, we took Low's by storm! Dresses were flying and our "Sales Lady" was a frownin'. I am sure we picked upwards of 30 dresses to try on. After only about 3, the sales lady spoke up and suggested we try the specific dress - brown and strapless!

After minutes of excited whispering from the changing room, the bridesmaid excited ALL wearing the bridesmaid dress!

And a dress was picked and one was even purchased. Thanks to Miss Ashley we have photos of the dress on an actual bridesmaid. The dress also came with a shawl in the same chocolate brown fabric which she graciously let me have!

Great looking dress!

Wow... on to the next decision!

Sample Invitations - Why Bother?

2008-05-31T01:03:00.000-07:00

After hours and hours of searching on the Internet for the perfect invitation... I found one! I liked it so much I printed off the picture from the website and asked the cake lady to duplicate the pattern on the invitation on the cake! I was even so excited I decided to drop the $10 and order a sample invitation....

Well thank goodness I did! So not happy with it. And no... it's not just me. I have shown the example to several different people and they too were left feeling disappointed!

That has got to be the best $10 I have spent so far on the wedding. I am so glad a took the time and the cash to order the sample! Well worth it.

If you are ordering invitations online, take the time to order a sample!

Save The Date Cards - To send or not to send?

2008-05-18T06:10:00.000-07:00

I had thought to pass on the "Save The Date" cards, but I have actually had people ask about them. It wasn't the money that really turned me off about "Save The Date" cards, but the need to all your address (or at least the majority) confirmed!

If you are getting married... or possibly throwing a big party in the future, start collecting addresses now! It's time consuming so start early. I have had the hardest time getting all the address together. Of course, a helpful groom does go a long way.

So... back to the "Save The Date" cards. I am thinking after such a wonderful turn out with the engagement party invitations, I might just hand make these as well. I haven't' been able to find exactly what I want and they are pricey at about .75 cents to a $1 each.

By hand making them, you can cut that cost in half.

Engagement Party - Handmade Invitations

2008-05-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Last week, I had my first experience with handmade invitations. Ms Tommie Hayes took the time to go supply shopping with me and to later sit down to demonstrate how the process works.

We visited Hobby Lobby! Now how I made it to my current age without ever being in a Hobby Lobby is beyond me. Love this store. We spent many minutes looking over all the various styles of scrap booking papers. They have hundreds of styles and colors. You will need to pick two - one will be the background with the second being the printed page.

Now it's time to select the ribbon which holds the two pieces together. You can use two if not three type of ribbon if you like. Then it's on to embellishments.

I think the whole process took approximately 4 hours (when you deduct all moments of ADD).

The invitations turned out to just be the cutest thing! Thanks to Ms Tommie Hayes!

I would have posted a picture, but Joseph has let someone borrow my camera and hasn't gotten it back yet...

Will post soon... If not, you will get on in the mail!

Invisalign Video

2008-05-10T15:20:00.000-07:00

Here's something you don't see often, a closeup computer pic of a friends teeth! Ha... yes, those are my teeth.

The doctor also gives you a video of how your teeth will look as the weeks go by. The video is broken down into three different views. One is the view shown here. The other two are bottom and top only!

Click on the website below and find out more information about my teeth than you ever cared to know!

http://www2.orthosesame.com/dweiss/sesame/pi/demo-inv.cgi?SESSONID=17917842!81!1210457933!10037623

One month down... Five to go!

2008-05-01T23:42:00.000-07:00

I just completed my first month with my personal trainer! The scale hasn't moved much, but I think my clothes are fitting better. He's focusing on my arms and my hips/tummy area. Areas which need major work.

Aimee (yes, you are the only one reading this!) and I have been doing better these last few days (not quite weeks) about eating correctly for lunch. I must say... we (yes, Aimee I am now talking for you) highly recommend the SlimNTrim Smoothie King smoothies.

We have noticed when we keep to the "very expensive" smoothies the pounds seem to melt away.

I feel good about how I will look come October 25th. How do you feel about how you will look?

Flowers By Regis

2008-05-01T22:55:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago, Brandon and I interviewed Flowers By Regis. It was pretty scary talking about what I wanted for my wedding... I mean my wedding... holy cow!

I think I had an idea of what I wanted, but thank goodness Brandon was there to help translate for the florist. I might have been babbling a bit.

We definitely went with the fall color theme. We add a twist by adding chili peppers (Joseph loves all things hot... like me! lol)... a touch of feathers (which I adore), I know it sounds strange, but I think we can pull it off. Brandon wasn't freaking out so I can only assume he thought so too.

We also decided on a cast iron arbor which will decorated with the fall theme for the church. The neatest idea came from the florist who suggested I purchase the arbor for the ceremony so we can keep it! Imagine... my garden will have the arbor under which I was married! Very cool...

I have pictures of arbors he has done in the past. I will try to scan those in for sharing.

Some of the flowers we picked are:

Mango Calas

Brown Orchids

Orange Roses

Deep Red Roses

Rose Hips

Chili Peppers

Feathers

Visit Flowers By Regis website at http://www.flowersbyregis.com/Weddings.htm

Advise from an Expert

2008-05-01T22:38:00.000-07:00

Several years ago, Eric, a high school bud, moved in 7 house down the street from me. As all good neighbors do, we have a tendency to harass each other when yard work is being done.

A couple of weeks ago, I was driving by Eric's and noticed he was doing lots and lots of yard work. I couldn't help but stop and ask when he was going to start on my yard. During the conversation, I mentioned I had gotten engaged. After congrats were give, he offered his wife's help. Lindsay works for Southern Bride Magazine!!!!!!!!!!!

Well, needless to say, I took him up on his offer last week. Lindsay came over and we spent over 2 hours talking everything wedding. She was even sweet enough to bring over "reference" materials... more magazines! And some awesome hardcover books! (very expensive books)

After taking diligent notes, I felt better about where I was on planning the wedding! Her help and advise was definitely invaluable.

We discussed everything from Cakes to Limos, DJs to Dresses, Reception Menus to Flowers...

As one not to take advantage of others knowledge, I picked and picked her brain and her resources.

With her help, I have begun calling some of the remaining vendors I will need to contact to arrange their services.

http://www.southernbride.com/

Signing Back On!

2008-05-01T22:30:00.000-07:00

So... as only one person has probably notice (thank you Aimee!), I have been very bad at posting stuff lately. Well, I am signing back on and have every intention of keeping the blog updated!

Lots has happened over the last month... So read on...

Vacation Finder - Shermans Travel

2008-04-03T15:14:00.000-07:00

I found this website that help find the perfect vacation at the perfect price. You fill in the dates and destination and Shermans Travel looks on numerous search engines such as Travelocity, Orbitz, Cheaptickets and others.

Very cool. I have spent a lot of time looking for the best honeymoon vacation given the requests Joseph has given me - Beach, All-inclusive, short flight, not crowded, no children...

I found Shermans Travel to be very helpful. I haven't booked anything as of yet, but I will probably use them to book whatever I find!

Check it out - http://quicksearch.shermanstravel.com/10/flights

Great commercial! Get ready ladies!

2008-04-02T09:39:00.000-07:00

Appointment made with possible florist

2008-03-28T08:23:00.000-07:00

I have set an appointment to meet with Regis of Flowers By Regis on Monday, April 7th at 4:30 pm to discuss floral arrangements. He had a booth at one of the Bridal shows I've been to. He has a different approach to weddings that I like. It's not all roses and roses and more roses! Check out his work.

http://www.flowersbyregis.com/index.htm

Rusty Lemon to play reception

2008-03-24T22:45:00.000-07:00

Talked to Rusty tonight and he has agreed to play the reception!

Yeah, yeah, yeah...

We are so very excited to have Rusty and his band play the reception. He's a very talented artist and a great entertainer.

I found this video of him performing "If It's Over":

Make sure to stop by his MySpace at www.myspace.com/rustylemon

Wedding Website Up and Slightly Running

2008-03-24T22:38:00.000-07:00

The wedding website is up and slightly running. I haven't finished putting in all the good stuff yet. Wow... so much goes into creating an informative and entertaining website.

It's amazing all the things the website has to offer and it FREE! I am excited about getting everything loaded in. Very cool.

For the bride's maids who like to have only the best of the best photos of themselves put on the net, please forward me a picture you would like me to use. If not, I will just use what I have. **insert evil laughter**

I hope to work on lots in the next few days and keep it up to date after that.

Check it out at http://www.ewedding.com/sites/ElizabethandJoseph/

Interviewing Florists this week... Cakes next week

2008-03-23T00:22:00.000-07:00

I am planning on visiting the three florists and bakers I have narrowed the field in the next two weeks. It might be ambitious, but with Gus's already booked for a rehearsal dinner... 7 months out! I am getting nervous and would like to book all my vendors pronto!

I will post the three candidates for each category later this week. Please pass along any information you have on the candidates. Also, if you have suggestions on who to use. Post their names!!!!!

If you are interested in going to any of the interviews, please let me know I would love the company... Remember, the baker will involve a cake TASTING!

Rehearsal Dinner... NOT at Gus's

2008-03-23T00:15:00.000-07:00

Why oh why would some other Bride want to have her rehearsal dinner at Gus' downtown on October 24th! I can't believe they're booked with another Rehearsal Dinner.

Now, I just don't know what to do! I wanted something casual and fun. Ice tea in Mason Jars, Canned Beer, Fried Chicken, Pecan Pie... everything a nervous Southern bride needs the day before her wedding!

Bridesmaids Dresses Will Always Be Bad

2008-03-23T00:11:00.000-07:00

I found this article and thought I would pass it along...

Bridesmaids Dresses Will Always Be Bad
Though most don't know costume designer Catherine Thomas by name, they are no doubt familiar some of the iconographic cinematic looks she has created (Uma Thurman's yellow leather jumpsuit in Kill Bill; Meryl Streep's Little House-goes-Dolly Parton garb in A Prairie Home Companion). But now Thomas created a number of looks that no self-respecting person would ever want to be associated with: The ugliest, tackiest, trashiest bridesmaids dresses imaginable, part of Katherine Heigl's costumes in 27 Dresses, which opens next Friday. Thomas' favorite? A Gone With the Wind inspired frock, compete with hoop skirt, bonnet, and parasol: "I think that was a combination of both someone from the South and a huge 'Gone With the Wind' fan and Vivien Leigh fan who had this fantasy since she was a little girl to be married in that scenario." Ha! What is it about being able to force your friends into matching dresses and denying them any stake in the decision that so warps women's minds?

Though James Mischka of Badgley Mischka insists that "trends today are much kinder to the bridesmaids than they ever were before" and Mark Badgley backs him up by saying, "The look these days is much more casual," I don't believe it at all. (Seriously, have you checked out bridal "guru" Vera Wang's latest maids' concoctions? I threw up a little in my mouth just looking!) Most brides are still shoving their so-called best-friends in pastel confections that you would not wish upon your worst, ugliest enemy. Tom Nardone, the founder of Uglydress.com, points out that, in their state of nuptial-planning hysteria, "Brides will choose a dress the same way they choose the cake, the chair covers and, especially, the flowers. That's why you get necklines that match the contours of the calla lilies."

Some say, that, when it comes to bridesmaid garb, times are changing -- "Girls...want more fashion-forward looks," says Francesca Pitera, the chief designer for Jim Hjelm, a New York bridal house -- but I can't help but think this is just another version of the same problem. Ok, fine: Maybe you don't have to wear a baby blue damask silk gown which hangs at the natural waist and has crepe flowers blooming out of the shoulders, but are you really going to feel much better when you see yourself in a picture of the bridal party in 20 years time, bedecked in a burnt-orange baby doll dress? Or a royal purple bubble hem? Because while fashion will always yield cringe-inducing trends laughed at in personal snapshots and such, bridal-party wear is well-documented enough that everyone and their mother gets to have a laugh.

Decorating Using Grapevine Wreaths

2008-03-22T23:55:00.001-07:00

With the date picked in the fall and with almost chosen colors of Brown & Coral... Grapevine wreaths could definitely be an add element in decorating not just the doors of the church but the tables at the reception.

Brandon actually suggested the idea. I wanted to use lots of items from my yard and the yards of my neighbors in the decorations. The bouquets, of course, would be done by a florist.

I wanted to use the fall theme by using fall leaves, grasses, and evergreen leaves such as Magnolia. Magnolia leaves have such a vibrant green on one side with a deep brown furry side as well. Very fall-y!

The grapevine leaves will be used a bases for the arrangements. Two stacked on top of each other with moss filling in the gaps. The centers would hold the floral arrangements. We would also purchase additional flowers to fill in, but the majority of the plant life would come from my yard and those of my neighbors.

I think that adds something special to an already special day!

Another Bride's maid dress!

2008-03-22T11:14:00.000-07:00

I like this gown and it has sleeves... hate the pose! The gown is by the designer, Alvina Valenta. It's tea length, but you might be able to order it in a full length style. It comes in various colors.

Check him out and let me know your thoughts!

Hiring Brinks Security: Francis 1st Cake Set Purchased

2008-03-21T09:17:00.000-07:00

What's a girl to do on a Friday when she doesn't have to work.... SHOP! Many have tried to talk me out of purchasing the Francis 1st Cake Set, but you have failed. They will be nice pieces to add to my silver set as well as reminders of the wedding. Since clearly, I am not going to get a cake topper!

Well this morning over my cup of coffee, I did it. I purchased the Francis 1st Cake Server and Cake Knife. Guess we need to hire Brinks Security to watch over them during the reception! hahaha

I don't think I will regret it.

Great Cake Making Video!

2008-03-19T15:41:00.000-07:00

Aimee found this video on the net about making cakes! Check it out... Too cool!

Peggy Porschen Cakes

Requested: Picture of tuxedo Joseph picked out

2008-03-14T08:28:00.000-07:00

Here it is as requested!

Joseph was very adamant about having this style of tuxedo. This style is often referred to as the "Morning Suit".

Morning = Time of Day
NOT
Mourning = Grief over the death of someone

It's typically worn for formal events during the day. The wedding is actually a little to late in the day for a Morning suit, but who cares. If he wants a Morning Suit, he should have one!

I think he will look fabulous in this style of tuxedo!