Thursday, December 9, 2010

Pictures of the Non-Professional Kind

These photos were accumulated from Stephanie (my beautiful Bridesmaid) and our Best Man's girlfriend Erika. Our pro pictures should be here tomorrow or Saturday and that is super exciting!

Click here!

Also, today I sent in my paperwork to get my new Social Security card. Once I get that, I'll go to the DMV and change my name there, and then all the other stuff like the bank, credit cards, etc.

Life is crazy, work is busy, the cat is lazy- but I couldn't be happier.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

We're Married!

We did it. It was amazing. The day was perfect- we had such a beautiful wedding, surrounded by all of our wonderful friends.

I heard people crying as I said my vows, and will have to check and see which parent cracked first. I was good until I told Dean I was 'honored to become his Wife'. I was just overwhelmed with emotion. I didn't cry nearly as much as I had anticipated until Dean's Dad gave his speech and I was all waterworks. Saying the word "Husband" still feels really weird as it comes out of my mouth, but it's so great. In an effort to avoid any of the "How is married life" questions, I'll answer this as simply as I can-

Married life in unto itself is quite literally the same as things were before. Our lives haven't changed, but what we are to each other has. Things are much deeper for us and as we had written in our ceremony: "Jen and Dean, you were once told by a stranger who had seen you holding hands to ‘Hold tight and never let go’. Today, as you make your promises to each other remember this motto that has existed throughout your relationship and carry it over to your marriage. No matter what happens in life, remember that no ceremony can create your marriage, only you can do that through love and patience; dedication and perseverance; talking and listening, tenderness and laughter; by learning to make the important things matter, and to let go of the rest."

Over the span of our relationship I have learned a lot of lessons on what it really means to be a good friend, a good daughter, and a good girlfriend. After the wedding, I am taking all of that with me as I strive to be the wife that Dean needs and deserves.

So, how is married life you ask?

Exactly as it should be.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Final Countdown....5 Days

It has been a roller coaster of a ride in the past few days... On Saturday when I got my hair done (and was at the salon for way too long!) I had a mini-panic attack. My hair in between the blonde streaks that I have in my hair, turned orange. When I saw myself photographed, my hair looked orange. Now I'm not talking a soft tone of warmth. I'm talking Vitamin C, amber, burnt orange. Hayley from Paramore might be able to rock that hair but sorry no, not me. The only time my hair has been that orange has been when I have been trying to get red out of my hair. I have an unbelievable disdain for that color. Luckily, we weaved back in another color so my hair looks great now!

This week is insane. Last minute things to do, but really things are done, and in spite of a few OMG-WHAT-IS-HAPPENING-WHY-IS-EVERYTHING-GOING-WRONG moments I'm feeling fantastic about everything. I made our reserved seating cards for our few handicapped family members (they require an end seat), Mom has been working on the head table runner, today my dress is being taken to get steamed, I finished the playlist last night- and then quickly deleted it on accident. /Sigh at self. However, I now at least know all of the tracks I want to use, it's just a matter of them being in the playlist in the order that I want them. SUPER frustrating, but it's all worth it.

On the agenda this week-
Tonight: Dad's birthday dinner at 9:30 Sushi and my Make up trial
Tomorrow: Picking up Graham from the Airport, my last day of work
Thursday: Going out with everyone
Friday: Spa day with my Mom, then dinner/wine at Sparks downtown (OMNOMNOM), Picking up dress from cleaners
Saturday: Go to salon for pre-wedding hair wash (my hair will need to be semi-dirty to cooperate). Rehearsal Breakfast, Erin stays with Dean and I
Sunday: Wedding

This may not sound horribly busy to anyone else, but it's pretty daunting to me. I also have a list of things I want to accomplish tonight/tomorrow- dishes, pack things for our Honeymoon, more laundry, etc. Everything is in place, all that's left to really do are the things I mentioned above and just getting married. I cant wait for everyone to see the tables and how hard we worked on everything. I cant wait to be married, and I absolutely cannot wait to show Dean the island of Moorea. We're going to have so much fun.

This post has gotten a little garbled in its point but that's just how my brain works these days...

Friday, October 22, 2010

DIY Black Lace Cupcake Tower

First things first- As a completely unrelated side note, all of you brides that do cupcakes for your wedding and make them yourself, Kudos to you. My Mother and I have both realized that while we are good at baking treats, we FAIL at icing them. I ended up with frosting on my jeans, in my hair....and not very pretty cupcakes. Our cupcake icing was amateur at best and I'm convinced pastry bags with icing are the devil. I think we are going to end up making desserts like brownies, and cookies (which is actually an East Coast tradition). Oh well.

If you are interested in doing this project I made some instructions. This could be cool for people throwing a Halloween party or etc.


What you will need for this project-
1) Two Yards of Black Lace
2) Glue
3) Black Acrylic paint
4) Black Spray paint (optional)
5) Something to cut a pattern from (we used an old pillow case)
6)Sharpie (or fabric pen)
6) One cardboard cupcake tower
7)Scissors


My mom and I DIY'd this cupcake stand using a cardboard tree and since our reception is Horror themed, I wanted to do something very Edgar Allen Poe, romantic, and we thought black lace would be perfect.

I opted to paint the parts where the cupcakes would sit with Acrylic paint because it carries less odor than the Spray paint. I did however spray paint the outer parts that separate the tiers, since cupcakes wont be sitting directly on those. I didn't get pictures of this part of the process (sorry!!) but I think you can use your imagination.

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Each tier of the cupcake tower has a different sized circle. We placed the largest circle on top of our white pillow case and drew a circle around it. We then cut just outside the circle to have a small overhang. Make sure to check that your circle has your desired length of overhang by placing your pattern over the cardboard circle that you are working on, and once it is the correct length, put your pattern on the lace and cut to your desired size.



Once your lace is cut, use your glue (I used a glue stick) and put it around the border of your cardboard and apply lace. To ensure that the glue adheres to the lace, use a square of paper or fabric to push along the edges. You could use your finger, but I dont want you to glue yourself to your project. I went this route, and it was quite messy. Repeat this process until your tiers are covered.

Sorry my camera was acting kinda wonky but this gives you the idea. Ignore the rose petals and lanterns in the pic we were playing. This is NOT the set up for the actual cake table, but this was fun to do.
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Long time no post

Things have been insanely busy for us!

Last weekend Mom and I ran around like crazy women. We went to Old World and solidified all the details for the reception, including talking about our set up and making sure there were enough chairs and etc set up. I tested the sound system while there and I put on The Decemberists "Engine Driver", and I damned near cried. I had that all consuming moment of 'it's all happening'.

After that, we ran a couple errands looking for some red votive candles that are unscented. Apparently I am the only person who wants UNSCENTED RED CANDLES. We were at Bella Terra and there were plenty of red ones but all cinnamon scented or apple...holiday candles. Sorry, but I dont want my wedding to smell like cinnamon (particularly because I find that scent nauseating unless it's being cooked in something. We also took care of the catering which is a huge relief.

I'm being ridiculously organized and have an itinerary made for the wedding day and set up instructions for all parts of the wedding. Does that make me anal? Maybe. But this way my Dad knows how to set up and he can oversee it all and I wont be asked inane questions. My goal is to keep myself as relaxed as possible.

I also found my wedding jewelry, and my gifts for my Bridesmaids. I'm wearing pearls for jewelry, and that's all I'm giving up ;).

Today Dean and I got our Guest book, which is adorable. It was being held at customs and it was a big stress for me to think of having to possible get another one last minute! Things are working out and I'll be making a post tomorrow or Sunday with all the final things that I have DIY'd- i.e. the boutenieers, the table runner for head table, and some final pictures of reception decor.

The wedding is 16 days away. I'm elated, but oh so ready.

Please note: I have also initiated this with my bridesmaids/family- if ANYONE asks me 'Are you EXCITED' in that girly sing song voice from here on in, I will rage at you. This also counts for 'you're getting maaaaaarrrrrrieeeeeeeeeeed'. Let's not do that. I'm aware I'm getting married, I have been planning it for 9 months. Yes, I am excited and nervous and I do not need you to exacerbate my anxiety by asking me these sorts of questions. /end rant

I've written my vows- apparently Dean has his too. And in 16 days I will be married to the love of my life.

Monday, September 20, 2010

Trooper

Dean was such a trooper this weekend- I'm really lucky to have him.

On Saturday, we weren't feeling very well and he embarked on a shopping excursion with my Mom, Dad, and myself. He tried on quite a few suits and shirts (to my great amusement) and finally he landed on getting an English Laundry suit.

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The only difference is that Dean's suit is black, and he'll be wearing an Ivory shirt and black tie. My Dad also picked out a very nice Perry Ellis suit (with the help of our own personal Macy's shopper Ken) and a beautiful shirt/tie that will be stunning for sure. I also bought myself a pair of jeans because of my...unfortunate ripping accident that I will not go into any more detail about! (Nothing scandalous, just totally embarrassing). Thank goodness for our personal shopper also helping Mom find her outfit. She got a fantastic blouse/skirt that I can tell she felt gorgeous in. She tried on a fantastic skirt/shirt combination but it was just too formal for our wedding. She said it made her feel like Meryl Streep!

Yesterday we went to Huntington Beach Central Park for our engagement photos (finally, after almost 8 months of being engaged). We are not very photogenic, and my hair was blowing around WILDLY near the lake but we should have at least a few good pictures. I just hope that our personalities came out on film. I managed to stay away from the evil, evil geese at the park and we even saw two horses! Though, there were some typical Huntington Beach characters in the park that were there while we were taking pictures. One guy was fishing on the small dock by where Alice's cafe used to be and said that there were 'small carp' in the lake and he accidentally ripped one's eye out. How romantic. The second was actually a group of teenage boys who were imitating the geese and although it was funny at first, it started getting kind of weird towards the end of it.

I also bought the groomsmen's ties, as well as Dean's and I will be buying my bone socks today as well.

I cant wait to see the pictures that Kevin took, and all in all it was a really productive weekend!

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Guest Book Purchased

I ordered our Guest book. This lovely lady on Etsy is making it for us. It will look like this one: Photobucket

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Times they are a changin'

RSVP's are coming in. Instead of the focus being on 'what do we still need to buy for the wedding'it's now replaced with 'what do we still need to put together for the wedding'.

I am currently waiting on getting the last few things for the reception. I am waiting eagerly for the curly willow branches I ordered which should be here on Friday. I am really hoping they will work for the red vases- they should have enough height to be pretty but low enough to see still.

This is sort of what we'll do with the curly willow, obviously on a much smaller scale, but we'll do 12 of these:

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Instead of the little votive lights that are on there....remember the beads that Laura made? She made some strands, specifically for these branches. Notice the lack of hooks on the ends :)Laura rules.

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Now I just need to go to Michaels and get things for the Boutonnière, and buy our guest book. This weekend Dean and I are finally going to the mall with my Mom and Dad to go find the boys their wedding attire. Things are happening every day, small and big, and I am so grateful for all the wonderful things I have in my life. Even with all the challenges, I rise up to meet them gladly because I have so much to be happy for. My Mom, cousin, Grandmother and I have never been closer and I am really excited to have them 'enter my world' for one day and see that even a horror movie reception can be done with class. I have the best Fiancé anyone could ask for- and lastly, I have some of the most incredible friends who have helped me so much and stood by me through everything. I'd be lost without you guys. /end mush.

Sunday, September 12, 2010

Last minute plans...

I realized while talking with my Mom this weekend that I really wasn't thrilled at the idea of having everyone seated for the ceremony. We're certainly not doing this formal, so it didn't make much sense to me. Also, people would miss my entrance (the way the room works), there's really no aisle to speak of) and even though the ambiance is great, to get married in a small of a place and already being at our reception is just kind of silly.

So since it will be November (but a November here in Socal, the possibility of rain is there, but not at all probable. Probably a 30% chance) we have opted to have our 5 minute ceremony outside in the gazebo. Dean and I wrote our ceremony together and I timed reading it- with plenty of lengthy pauses. Here is a picture of it that we took when we first went and scouted locations. We will be married here, and then head over to the lounge for the reception. :)

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Thursday, September 9, 2010

Guest Book

So, I wont post a picture of our Guestbook that we found, but I am going to try my hand at making a nice set of pens to sign it. Something that looks like this:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/54210449/princess-peacock-collection-guestbook?ref=sr_gallery_4&ga_search_query=peacock+feather+guestbook+pen&ga_search_type=all&ga_page=&order=&includes[0]=tags&includes[1]=title

I also just reminded myself that I need to make the boutonnières for the boys. This to be exact. I can make these from the small peacock feathers Nana got me. Looks like I need to make a trip to Michaels to see what I can do. Crafty. Crafty Crafty.

Panic?

"I cant believe how calm you are when your Wedding is so soon"

Really-should I really be panicking? Yes, things are happening very quickly. The Wedding is now 59 days away. Am I panicking? No. I know what I want, and I know how to get it. Sure, it's stressful. I wouldn't have been able to do it without the help of my family and friends. This whole process has made me totally respect event planners and how many things you need to keep track of. I'm going to face this as calmly as I can. I already have a lot of hats to wear, so what's one more? I am ready, and I feel that my entire life has been leading up to this.

Now, the fun stuff-

Our Wedding Invitations are done (but I cant post pictures yet until everyone gets theirs, but I will post a teaser picture). Mom, Elise, Dad, and I probably all worked on them for at least 30 hours.

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There's your teaser picture for now ;).

I now have my black bra/crinoline and I got off SO lucky- My dress doesn't need alterations! All that really needs to be done is a small fix to the halter neck.

I cant believe that since I got my hair done (courtesy of my lovely Nana) I haven't posted any pictures!! Now of course, this was amidst us playing with hairstyles, but here's an idea of the color-

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Monday, August 23, 2010

To do progress

TO DO:


-(laminate) Print horror pictures and laminate

-pick out beads for branches

-bead the strands for centerpieces

-Order Black Table cloths from hprents

-Buy liquor for bottle favors

- Make our Vow Cards/Ceremony binder for Sam

- Find a place to do my dress alterations

- Get dress altered

- Buy Deans vest/pants (DKNY suit from Macys just need to wait until my next pay period)

- Get Lemonade/forks/knives/plates (Costco/Sams club/Walmart)

- Find baskets for wedding favor

- Guest book

- Card box

- Buy underthings

- Find jewelry to wear

- Buy the boys ties

In three days we will be getting our Marriage License and on the 27th (our 4 year Anniversary) we're going to see a Reunion Tour of The Juliana Theory playing their entire album Emotion is Dead plus some other fan favorites. Life is interesting.

Centerpiece/Beading!

So in case at this point anyone is unaware, our centerpieces are a Manzanita branch but instead of hanging candles, pictures of us, or wishes- we're using horror pictures.

This was one of our very first preliminary tries and it's missing some key elements: 1) the nice glossy pictures I just had done (these were paper) and 2) their beaded hangers (LOL at my paper clip of ghettoness)

http://s20.photobucket.com/albums/b220/splitredlips/Wedding%20Ideas/?action=view¤t=centerpiece.jpg

My cousin Laura (she's my Step-Dads, Nephews Wife...but for all intents and purposes, she is cousin Laura, haha) is an expert at beading, and was even so kind as to put which beads she used,and how many of each we have left. She is stellar and I cannot explain my gratitude. She really came through on this for me. These pictures are from my Mom who did a little trial run while at home today.

Pictures here:

Size one


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Size two
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Size three


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Proto-type all put together-

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Squee!!!!!

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

August 26th

3:30PM appointment for marriage license.

Monday, August 9, 2010

Unrelated note-

Long line bras are extraordinarily weird to wear. So. Many. Hooks. Oi!

90 days.

Tuesday Night- I am getting together with my cousin Laura (who is a jewelry making QUEEN) to pick out beads for my manzanita branch centerpieces.

Saturday- I am picking up my red vases from the wholesale flower market that we special ordered, and going to Michaels to cruise their Halloween stuff. I need to find a basket to hold my wedding favors (two actually) and potentially buy things to DIY my card box.

August 15th- Go to Walgreens/Walmart/Albertsons to print photos for lamination

Of course I have some things left to order online/buy at the store- but really that's about it. We have some major DIY projects to undertake but it is such a relief to have things bought/ready to go.

TO DO:


-(laminate) Print horror pictures and laminate

-pick out beads for branches

-bead the strands for centerpieces

-Order Black Table cloths from hprents

-Buy liquor for bottle favors

- Make our Vow Cards/Ceremony binder for Sam

- Find a place to do my dress alterations

- Get dress altered

- Buy Deans vest/pants (DKNY suit from Macys just need to wait until my next pay period)

- Get Lemonade/forks/knives/plates (Costco/Sams club/Walmart)

- Find baskets for wedding favor

- Guest book

- Card box

- Buy underthings

- Find jewelry to wear

- Buy the boys ties

Most importantly, we have our appointment to go get our marriage license on August 27th (our 4 year Anniversary). Since the wedding is in 90 days, we can officially apply for our license (here in CA you have to get married within 90 days of issue, not sure about the rules other places).

Monday, July 26, 2010

Thank you Goodwill

Dean and I went to Goodwill last week to find some books for our cupcake table decorations. We had great success (due to his keen eye) and found something that we didn't expect to find. I had been looking for Champagne flutes with black stems for quite a while, just as a way for Dean and I to have special Bride/Groom glasses. I had seen some for about 11-16 bucks and was okay with that price but low and behold when I was at Goodwill with my ever patient future Husband...I found them. They were $1.39 each- FTW!

Please ignore my penguin place mat, guitar winder, brita filter and air freshener. I was cleaning house and my table unfortunately gets stacked with things to keep/do/throw out.

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My Mom also wins. She is fervently working on my Bridal Shower stuff and everything she has done, is just stellar. She is really excited about it being Japanese themed (because duh, it's my Mom who loves everything Japanese related) and seems to really be enjoying herself. I wont post those pictures here until things are more complete, but I love it all!

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Dreaming of Tahiti

I am indeed fortunate that I work in the travel industry. I am even more fortunate that the place I work specializes in the South Pacific.

I am proud that when I am asked where we will be Honeymooning I get to say- Moorea and Bora Bora. You know, one of those destinations that celebrities go to?

In four months I will be snorkeling in the crystal clear water, drinking Hinanos with the man that I love. I am so thankful that he gets to share in what I do in such a special way.

The one resort I know we will be staying at for sure is the Intercontinental Moorea Resort and Spa. This resort boasts a dolphin center, and Te Mana O Te Moana (a conservation group)rehabilitates both Hawksbill and Green Turtles. There was just a massive renovation to this property and they now have two new pools, and we would be staying in their newest room category- the Garden Pool Suite Bungalow. Having seen this resort personally- I am so excited to stay here.

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I'll keep the Bora Bora part under wraps until I have more information on that- but I'll put a teaser photo up here of the resort we are hoping to stay at...

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Monday, July 12, 2010

I haven't really gone into many details about the feelings you experience while planning a wedding. It's a roller coaster ride.

I have felt everything from anxiety to extreme happiness. Today I am this really strange hybrid of anxiety, tears, and happiness.

I am home sick for the day, so while trying to work on some things I wanted to finish today I was listening to music that I would want to play at our Reception. I figure it's better to start compiling the playlist now.

I started watching a couple wedding videos of couples first dances. I am smiling and crying. I'm not sure if a lot of brides experience this 'Wow I cant believe that it's happening to me' feeling- but it's really indescribable until you feel it. I'm just so grateful for the wonderful man that I have, and that he chose me.

Enough sap for now-

My hair has now been dyed for the wedding. It's brown/blonde again. I am too lazy to keep dyeing it fun colors. It's natural all the way now. We are officially under the 4 month mark, the reception decor is done, the flowers are ordered, we even have a quote for our Honeymoon from one of the girls in my office. Nothing new to report other than we ordered Dean's shoes.

In a few days these will be arriving: http://rlv.zcache.com/frankenstein_shoes-p1672585896673314072nfa2_400.jpg

Love you all, I'm off to go lay down.

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

For your own reference....

Days until our wedding:

COUNTDOWN:

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Adventures in RitDye

So, yesterday I dyed my slip using teal rit dye. All in all, I am in love with it. I wish it were a bit more vibrant/darker, but I'll know more when I see it with my dress. Can always do it again.

I didn't take pictures of the dye process- but it was backbreaking. I imagine the women who use the washer method have it much easier. I was hunched over my bathtub, moving my slip constantly for 40 minutes in the plastic container I used to put the dye in. I managed to leave my bathroom SPOTLESS of teal dye- but managed to get it on myself. Yes, I was wearing gloves. Apparently resting your upper arms on the plastic tupperware that has dye on it was not a factor that was present in my mind.

Here is the slip after I rinsed it, and about where I started to panic because I was unhappy with the color:

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I pouted for a bit and after Dean told me I was silly for being upset and that I should wait for it to be dry. So I did and when I looked this time- SUCCESS! The color is fantastic here.

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I might give it another dye bath but I dont think I need to. What do you think?

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Much needed update

Been a while since I updated...

There has been much progress! First: we have head table decorations- success! I will only post one aerial photo because I dont want to give too much away before the wedding itself :)

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We absolutely love it.


In other DIY news, I bought my Dye for my Bridal slip and am hoping to get that done asap. It should turn out this color: http://www.mygymfloor.com/Portals/0/Configurator/tiles/YM-200-0-DrkTealGreen.jpg

Once I do that project I'll post photos of the process! I'm also tying 100 small bows for our favors. I want to do as much as I possibly can before the wedding gets closer and I make other people suffer with me :). Nothing has been totally overwhelming in the planning process yet. The budget is always a concern, but Dean and I can make it work. We always do. I'm so anal I have a spreadsheet of things I need to buy and on which paycheck I will be purchasing this stuff.

I keep seeking advice from the Offbeatbride forums and some of the best things I have heard is "Dont sweat the small stuff". Totally practical advice, but in the broader sense- No one is going to notice the things that I will notice.The moments that will matter will be between Dean and I when we stand in front of our loved ones telling them how much we love each other.

I also purchased our rings yesterday. Those are also being kept under wraps except to close friends/family. (Hey, a girls got to show someone right?!)Dean and I already made an agreement that once we know that they fit, and that we like them- we have to put them away. No trying it on 'just because'. I would wager that it will be far more difficult for me to not wear it than for him. Just a guess :)

That's all for now, but I will be updating like crazy in about a month or so :)

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Our Wedding Party

Meet our extremely attractive Wedding Party!

Bridesmaids:

Erin Zupicich

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Stephanie Krutsick
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Best Man:

Graham Brewster

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Groosman:
Shawn Too-many-names Burkhart

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Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Officially 5 Months away

Time.FLIES.

Surprisingly I do not have that state of panic that a lot of brides seem to express, but I DO have a sense of urgency...which I suppose could lead to panic...but I'm not there YET. This is really for my sanity and no one elses, but if you're interested this is our progress report.

Right now we have purchased-

- The Venue Deposit

My:
- Dress
- Veil
- Shoes
- Slip

Decor/favors:
- Mazanita for 3 table centerpieces
- Napkins
- Small Bottles for Favors
- Ribbon for Favors
- Matchbooks
- Cupcake Tower(s)and decoration tools


We still need to purchase-

- Low Planter vase for Floral arrangement for head table
- Two Frames for Head Table
- Black Table-cloths for the banquet tables
- Dean's suit and shoes
- Beads for centerpieces
- Wedding Rings (picked out, just stalling)
- Small Red Vases for smaller Manzanita branches
- More Manzanita
- Alterations (Teal Tulle)
- Food
- Double Decker Bus Deposit (if we do it!)

Still need to do-

- Invitations
- Secret gift for my Guildies
- Decorate the low planter vase
- Find, Print, and Laminate Horror Photos
- Print Bride of Frankenstein photos (2 5x7's)

Seeing it all laid out, is still such a trip. I am so lucky, and so happy, and everything in between.

Thursday, May 13, 2010

More Table Mock up Photos

I believe I forgot to post these...there will be some amendments from this trial run, but things are always progressing and moving forward!

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Thursday, May 6, 2010

Been a while...Veil Crisis

So, it is no secret that I have wanted a birdcage veil. So, I ordered my fascinator a lot time ago and then i ordered my birdcage veil and tried it on with the dress and.....I hate it with the dress.

So, I started looking at other brides that have a 'Halter' style dress and they all complained of the same thing.

So, here I am a bit stuck. I have been looking at some options, but it just sucks to think I have had something completed and I am sort of at square one with that.

So I have two options at this point- 1) go on sans veil and just wear my fascinator for our Wedding Day...the fascinator is kind of big and without a veil I do not know if it's "dressy" enough or 2) Wear the fascinator when we go out for our Jack and Jill party.

So, my veil I think will be elbow length and I am wearing my hair down (obviously not in this style or with the tiara) but I am a visual person and need to see it. I'll post what I want to do my hair later today.

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So inevitably it will be something like this:
http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q92/allymo23/HAIR-long990-1.jpg

or this: http://i134.photobucket.com/albums/q92/allymo23/bridehalfupdown.jpg

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Official Wedding Website

I will still continue to use this blog for wedding planning updates, but this Wedding Website holds the most pertinent information about our Wedding (When, Where, etc).

I am so impressed so far with this Website. I first read about it on offbeatbride.com which I read daily like scripture. This website has acted as such an amazing tool and being a part of the OBB Tribe community has helped me IMMENSELY in my wedding planning.

So, in my quest to try and find a 'registry' that suited Dean and I had come up with nothing that suited our needs. No, I dont need an iron. Sorry, we already have silverware and plate ware. I do not need 100 of the same thing from Target because it was the cheapest...so then when I happened upon Deposit a gift I was so pleasantly surprised to see that you can register for any variety of things and set your own values and amounts of that item that you would like. I have never heard of a registry where I could ask for a massage on my Honeymoon and Donations to our Wedding in the same place. Dana, the woman who manages the site has given amazing customer service thus far, even going as far as personally hand writing a Postcard and sending it to me. The postcard came in an envelope and had detailed instructions of how to utilize our wedding site better, and she addressed both Dean and I by name(Big points there too!). Inside the envelope there was also Dana's card, and a magnet and she even stated 'If you need anything I am here for you'. Coming from a similar field of Customer Service, I sincerely appreciate the unsung heroes that really go the extra mile for their clients.

So thank you OBB for all your support and for introducing me to this wonderful website!

Everyone check out Dean and I's Wedding website:

http://johnsonandcoulter.mydagsite.com/

Friday, April 23, 2010

Save the Dates are going out

Be on the look out for our Save the Dates!

Right now I am on the quest for brooch pins to put on the hip of my wedding dress where a flower appliqué was.

Something similar to this:
http://mismikadodowntheaisle.files.wordpress.com/2009/04/47f10dd13f901_13932b.jpg?w=420&h=420

Any ideas?

Monday, April 5, 2010

Wedding Collage of ideas we are 100% on

So here is everything put together. I am in love with it. The only minor change is that rather than my coffin favors, we have elected to do little white boxes decorated with spiderwebs and other fun stuff (as seen here in the white, not black: http://www.bhg.com/holidays/halloween/parties/frightful-halloween-party-favors/)


Here's the collage:

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Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Table Mock up 2- Head Table Decoration Possibilities

There's a few things different in this photo, than what we will actually use for the tables. Instead of the red votives, we're using the clear glass boxes. We're trying to find more mosaic boxes like the red/gold ones we found at A to Z Wholesale Flowers.

But for all intents and purposes, this is what our 3 banquet tables will look like with a few exceptions: 1) There will be more horror pictures, 2) The gems will not be blue, duh 3)The horror pictures will be in color 4) The differences of the clear votives 5) Obviously the table will be longer and we'll be using our other nice candle holders, but this was just a table set up to take pics of all aspects of the centerpieces together.

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Also, we bought the fabric on Saturday for head table. It's a GORGEOUS dark teal, and we've tentatively decided what to do for a centerpiece. Since we are using real flowers I think we are going to get a low, decorative flower box and put that in the center and on the sides of the table we are going to use three peacock feathers spread out as a fan for decoration. It looks very ornamental and very lovely. I also want to buy a pewter frame and frame a photo of Frankenstein and his Bride to incorporate the horror theme (especially since our shoes will be of Frankenstein and his Bride, respectively. I'm not sure where the candles will be/where we'll use them but I know we will.

Monday, March 22, 2010

So I'm thinking...

I've been thinking....that if I get an ivory birdcage veil it's going to be too much white on my already pale self...I think I might do a dark teal birdcage veil instead. Thoughts? My fascinator is this: http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.131556133.jpg

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Shoes, Cake Toppers, and Love

So this week has been like Christmas. I'll go one by one in my list...

I received my wedding shoes. They are perfect, comfortable, and exactly as pictured.

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So in my quest of trying to find a decent cake topper, I went on Etsy to see if anyone made some that I liked. I saw plenty of hokey ones with the bride grabbing the guys butt, or the guy being dragged down the aisle- so I decided to narrow down my search to 'Zombie Wedding Toppers', and to my surprise I found a few sellers that make them. When I saw the examples that this seller had in her store, I sent her link to Dean to see what he thought of them and he was just as excited as I was by hers. If you have a moment please check out http://www.etsy.com/shop/Beeloverly. I cannot say enough wonderful words about Leslie at - she is amazing to work with. Super professional, and she was super quick in making these for us and her price was completely reasonable. I would recommend her in a heartbeat. I literally SQUEALED when I took them out of the box today. They are just so perfect. Please note the Teal ribbon in the bouquet and the purple flowers in the bouquet as well. (She even threw in a 'Thank You' note!)

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And last but absolutely not least- My wonderful Kinmates. Their generosity absolutely astounds me and it nearly makes me tear up to be on the receiving end of such kindness. I love you guys, you are truly my second family and I would be lost without your friendship and your guidance. Know that everything you have done for us, will never be forgotten or unappreciated.

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Progress is not just an 8 letter word

First, let me praise my undying love for Etsy. If you have not ever been on Etsy, I highly recommend you take some time out of your life and look at all the wonderful handmade things on there.

While I am on the Etsy topic, this store for ties is incredible- http://www.etsy.com/shop/toybreaker. Since nothing in our wedding will be normal and conventional, why should the ties? So, imagine my surprise when I came across these:
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Perfection! And we will be getting three ties in the below colors. Dean is wearing teal, Graham is wearing Emerald, and Shawn will wear the Deep Purple:
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I'm also going to buy my Dad a tie (it's got a different print on it) not only because I think they are awesome but as kind of a thank you for how much he and Mom are doing for me. It's really the least I can do.

So, my Cake Toppers are being crafted and should be sent out to us either tomorrow, or Monday. I also received my cupcake toppers from http://bakeitpretty.com/ and I am so happy with them. They are adorable, and the service with Bakeitpretty was incredible. They shipped them to me lightning fast and the presentation of the box was adorable. Each figure got it's only little brown bag with a sticker to hold it closed. I particularly liked the hand written 'Thank You' from them.

Lastly, my Wedding Shoes are shipped and are en route to my house.

In the words of Steve from Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs: "Excited!"

Monday, March 8, 2010

Progress

This weekend we made some amazing wedding progress! We are almost completely done buying things for the reception.

My Mom and I went to an amazing Floral Warehouse(that I would totally recommend, but the name escapes me for the moment...). The lady Kathy that owns it, is super sweet, and even though the place was supposed to close at 12PM she let my mom and I play for an hour and a half past closing time. My mom was referred to this place while standing in line at Michaels. The lady overheard my Mom asking about Manzanita branches and told my Mom about this floral warehouse that sells it. I got an extremely good deal on the branches (have to go back and get 3 more) and away we went. Upon further exploration, we found that they had tables set up like banquet tables which was really an eye opener about how we will need to decorate.

From there we went to my Nana's to wait for my Aunt to arrive to embark on our journey to Michaels. Now, I get completely overwhelmed in this store so it was really nice to have my Aunt who is a seasoned veteran of shopping at Michael's to help us find things that work. She picked out these glass beads to go inside our vase that I would have never chosen myself (and I resisted until I saw them used) and had a lot of great advice to offer.

It was really beneficial to do a mock up table because certain ideas we thought would work- well, just didn't. And since in my excitement (and exhaustion of the day) I didn't take a photo of our finished table- I can describe it to you.

We have our manzanita branch inside of a red square vase. Inside, we have the glass red/amber/various i-dont-know-what-colors beads. The Centerpiece will be resting on a square mirror surrounded by some votive candles, and black-magic rose petals will be running the length of the table with some of those same beads from inside the vase. Of course, hanging from each of the centerpieces will be it's corresponding horror pictures, about 3-4 per branch. Dean and I will have to get started on printing/laminating the pictures and maybe even beading. I haven't decided on how we're going to incorporate the beads. I think it will give us the touch of elegance that will be perfect for a wedding. I'm not sure about the color.

So, here it where we are so far with things purchased-

Dress-Check
Wedding Location/Reception- Check
Cupcake toppers- Check
Cake Toppers- Check
Reception decorations- Check (just as soon as we purchase a few last minute things)
Wedding Shoes- Check

Not bad for being 243 days away!

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Matchbooks, Cake Toppers, and Crafts- Oh my!

Here it is Thursday evening and I'm just now realizing I haven't updated here and I have legit things to update about. This one could be a long one, so bear with me!

First, I received our Matchbooks. They are even cuter than I could have expected. These will sit inside the little coffin boxes that we'll be making as wedding favors.

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We haven't decided yet what cupcake tower we're going to get or what color the icing will be on the cupcakes but I did find this website called Bakeitpretty.com and they had a bunch of really cool things that I can use for the theme.

First, I really like these black lace baking cups!

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And I will be using these cupcake toppers:

Zombie hands FTW!
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Bats
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And super cute ghosties!!
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I have been going back and forth whether or not I would have a little 'mini-cake' at the top for just Dean and I and our one year Anniversary. That is until today. I found a lady who is going to make our cake toppers. They were the ones I wanted originally! She is even going to make them in our likeness.

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And the cake that Inga is going to make for us will be a small one little tier that looks like this: http://www.halloweddings.com/images/menu/nightmarecake.jpg

And that's all I have time for, for the evening but this Saturday is craft day with my Mom, Nana and Aunt Cyndi and we're going to be doing girly things all day! I'll post pictures when I get home :)