A Little Fun

I found this fun little game over at http://lovehim18.blogspot.com/ Check out her fab blog.

My Letter is "S"!

Rules: It's harder than it looks! Copy to your own note, erase my answers, enter yours, and tag 10 people. Use the first letter of your name to answer each of the following questions. They have to be real . . . nothing made up! If the person before you had the same first initial, you must use different answers. You cannot use any word twice and you can't use your name for the boy/girl name question.

Have Fun!!

1. What is your name?: Sonya

2. A four Letter Word: (a clean one?): Soap

3. A boy's Name: Shawn

4. A girl's Name: Sophie

5. An occupation: Seamstress
6. A color: Steel Gray

7. Something you wear: Spanx ;)
9. A food: Seafood Pasta

10. Something found in the bathroom: Shower

11. A place: Soviet Union
12. A reason for being late: Sick Child

13. Something you shout: Shoot!
14. A movie title: Sleeping With The Enemy

15. Something you drink: Sweet Tea

16. A musical group: Snoop Dogg (Okay, maybe not a group)

17. An animal: Seal

18. A street name: South Street
19. A type of car: Saturn
20. The title of a song: Say,say,say

Do You Know What Today Is

It's Our Anniversary! Anniversary.. (As Tony Toni Tone would sing)


Yes, today my best friend & I share 5 years of Bliss together! Technically, neither of us really know when "the day" was that we officially became a couple, but after days of goo goo eyes, & referring to each other as "mine", we pretty much adopted July 10th as "our day". We've been friends for almost a decade, & I really don't know where the time went!

As for right now, I am in the house deep cleaning, but we will probably go out to dinner {yall know I'm a total foodie, & I THANK GOD that He sent me a man who respects my appetite, lol} & just hang out, like we normally do. Every day is special to us, so we really don't trade gifts on particular days, just as the heart leads..

Anyhoo, I hope each of you have a wonderful weekend, & I'll be posting some projects soon!


xoxo

A New Addition

To my Matron of Honor's Closet....



So, although this happens to be one of those details that truly have no real purpose in making a wedding come together, I still am a lover of details, & since I plan to get a monogrammed bridal hanger for myself, I wanted to provide something on a smaller scale for my MOH. This beautiful damask hanger is one of my favorite purchases! The seller even attached this cute little personalized tag:


{please have mercy on the picture quality. it was taken with my blackberry for pete's sake, lol!}

And, yes...this is my MOH's dress! She's had it for several months, but I just never posted it (sorry guys). It's really so lovely in person. The color is amazing, & it has this simple, yet Greek Goddess flow on my beautiful sister (MOH).



If you'd like one for yourself, or someone in your own Bridal Party, check out Kim GrantInk's Shop on Etsy! She's terrific!!

Where There's A Will, There's A...

Big Fat Beautiful Arch!



With me taking a stab at this myself, it will be on a much smaller, less expensive scale. Honestly, I hardley know where to begin with this, but I would love to have something like this at our ceremony. Wish me luck!

P.S. I'm open to any suggestions & ways to create this look! I figure if I start out with a pinch of Manzanita (or maybe even curly willow) branches, & stir in some flowers...and a cup full of crystals!

Invite 101

I was skipping around Betsy White's Stationery Boutique tonight, & found a very useful tool in staying in formatting guidlines, when it comes to proper wording protocal & etiquette. You can find wording samples, tips & rules. Just go to this link:
http://www.betsywhite.com/Wording-Guide-W2.aspx

The prices of the stationery are a little high end, but hopefully some of you can find the information helpful for your own paper projects. :)

Blood, Sweat & Tears...

I'm stuck in a Wedding Workshop!


Well, I admit that's a tad dramatic, but I have been thinking about projects over the past few days, & I'm about to start on (and complete) a few this week. Pics to come soon!

Aisle Me Pretty...

If I didn't already have an aisle runner, I would totally go for this beautiful runner! I love the material & the design.

I'm A Major Fan..

I've been eyeing a couple of details that I'd really love to incorporate into my upcoming Bridal Portraits, one of which being a vintage lace fan. Although I haven't blended any other fabulous Marie Antionette elements into our planning, I just can't take my eyes off of these fans as final contenders for "Portrait Candy":




The Colors & Details Are Perfect...


I know that I could totally do this myself with a standard lace fan, ribbon, & some other embellishments. It could really be fun. The price is only $12.99-$13.99 at Teacup Design for every bit of yumminess featured. I will keep you guys updated on whether I buy it, or DIY!

Bridal Signs

For a Tiffany's touch....


Or for that Damask appeal...


I love these signs that you can hang outside your door, whether it be in a Hotel Room/Suite, or at home or church {or another location}. They add a lovely touch, & also serve as a nice informational tool for those who aren't up to speed with which room the girls are getting ready in.

They are a total DIY, but if you're like me & just want to leave some things to the pros, check out Pink Avenue Bride's Blogspot. She is responsible for these beautiful signs. I personally purchased my Bridal Suite & Groom Chamber signs from Jujubee on Etsy...

My Prayers Go Out...

To His Family, especially the kids...


And to Her Family, especially her imprisoned son....



And I don't want to take away from another name loved by many. I mean, I was a Star Search junkie as a kid!



We will always remember you..

Wow Factor

I know that bling has been big in wedding decor this season, & I admit that I have jumped on the bling bandwagon, but I am trying to keep it in subtle places like:

Table Decor at the Reception {along with LOTS of candles}
Incorporated in Bouquets
Maybe a single rhinestone on our programs {depending on design we choose}
Cupcake Tier {rhinestone trim}
My Wedding Day earrings

But now....I have reason to go all out! Look at these sexee dogs...


The Project Wedding Bride even took it a step further & added "I Do" to the front of her shoes, rather than the bottom...



I've heard that you should have a wow factor where you go crazy with one main element at your wedding, like an area of beautiful branches, or candles galore on tables, and now bling on shoes! I really wasn't that keen on this idea at first, but I am really thinking this will be so lovely, because it's still somewhat covered by my gown, but people will still see that sparkle. They would also make some awesome pics for the budoir ladies!

I don't have my shoes yet for the wedding, but I PROMISE to post my bling update, but I probably won't do the "I Do" on the front. Although it's super cute, I think I will do one or the other...

For Nidia's {Bride} full instructions, check out this link: http://www.projectwedding.com/wiki/show/putting-on-the-bling

Just One More...

So, I was doing my usual lurking around the big "E", aka Etsy, & fell in love with a few monograms from Go Against The Grain's shop. I tried to close the page, but the $2 Victorian monogram lured me in, & so here we are!

I must say though, I have had my eye on about 8 different monograms as of late, & I although it is not priority, I just LOVE monograms! You can do SO much with them, & they are not all limited to just wedding projects. I wanted something softer, more vintage, & I love this. On top of it all, the seller was super DUPER quick in her reply to me. In fact, she changed the color & position for me a few times, & in all of her repositioning, she had my monogram to me in less than an hour. She is an incredibly sweet seller.

Tayler's Dress is Here :)

And it was worth the wait! Sweet Plume sent a new dress for my Flower Girl, & it arrived yesterday.


Her dress is the first one pictured, so rather than a gold satin belt, she is wearing a Tiffany Blue satin belt. I can't believe I was able to find Tiffany Blue Damask! I tried it on Tayler last night, & she wore it for 2 hours, & cried when my sister made her take it off, lol! It's perfect, & I ordered it a couple of sizes too big since we haven't reset the date just yet. I will add a white flower to her sash.

Wedding Wands

How cute are these?!


I came across these wands on Melissa Smitten's Blog, & I adore them! I'm considering replacing the sparkler idea that I had in mind with these. Or, in addition to the sparklers, have these at the reception so that our guests can welcome us in! They make beautiful pictures, plus its an inexpensive project because all I need is wooden dowels, ribbon & my hot glue gun (and probably a jar to put them in). They make beautiful pics.

Our Cardbox

Is ready.....



And I Love it!


The details especially around the chandeliers are beyond picture recognition. I decided to mix up the traditional damask motif, & go with more of a flourish, in our original hue of steel gray with tiffany blue. It was made especially for us by Shea Chic Designs on Etsy. One of the greatest compliments in this is that Amanda of Shea Chic Designs told me that this project was "fun & inspiring" & that she has "decided to make another similar to it as an example in her studio or even in her home". I am so excited!

Oh, & here is the sign that will be displayed next to the box. I didn't want to attach a small sign directly on the box because it would be too busy.

Lovely

I absolutely adore this vintage Robin's Egg Blue dress from 13bees on Etsy. It is "The Blue Dahlia Dress"


I think it would be so lovely for our rehearsal dinner.


It's not a bad price at $114, but it still is not in my budget. Just thought I'd share:)

Which is Your Fave?

Can you guys please help me out {again}!?!?

Programs are definitely one of those elements of a wedding that need a few things. They need a date, a location, & the people in which your wedding party consist of. Those are just a few key factors that come to the top of my head. I have 2 out of 3! The only thing missing (it's kinda a big deal too) is the date.

But, as you guys can see, I am not one to let that stop or hinder my planning. There is still work to be done. Where I need your help is narrowing down which Program style to go with! If you've followed my blog for awhile, you may remember that I've been set on the scallop fan program. It's still in the running if I have the design set by someone else, then I do the assembly, because they are a little out of the budget, but CAN be done.

So, please imagine the following with possibly a chandelier motif somewhere, Or tiffany blue ribbon somewhere else, or our initials with the classic font beautifully monogrammed. Which # is your fave?

#1





#2



#3





#4




#5



#6





#7



#8


#9


If this is your program, please advise so that I may give you proper credit! I have so many great ideas in my files that I can't keep up with where I got them from.

All but #8 & #9 are from Etsy Seller 2bSquared. Their prices are actually fairly reasonable when it comes to online programs already printed & assembled. I love the classic fonts that they use, & the ornate motifs! I also really love the damask paddle fans, & I wasn't a huge fan of that style before, but I am now. Even if we have a fall wedding, I will still consider fan programs! People still get hot! Aylee Designs has free templates for fan programs, so that's an option (they don't have the scallop fan though). I am considering making this a DIY project. Most of these seem pretty simple.

Okay, so please help me out & cast your vote. Which style is your favorite???

I HEART These!

Anemones....



It's something about their whimsical, clean, fresh look that I just adore. I think that they will go well with the other flowers we are using, which are peonies, carnations & full bloom roses, all in shades of white & ivory. All of the flowers I am using are silk, so that the arrangements/projects can be completed way in advance. Plus,it saves money. Here's more flower porn:






I think that with the rich, deep center, they will coordinate beautifully with the damask being incorporated. I don't think these will be on the tables with the centerpieces, but maybe in random places, like the guest sign in table, or our photo table, etc...I will not have lots of anemones, but I am thinking of using mint julep cups. Like such:



Since I don't intend to spend much on centerpieces & florals, I will probably use what I have to make this work. I already have small, glass vases from The Dollar Store. I can spray paint them with silver mercury glass paint. Look here for a very helpful tutorial:

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://i.ehow.com/images/GlobalPhoto/Articles/4600986/mercuryglass1_Full.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.ehow.com/how_4600986_glass-jars-inexpensive-home-decor.html&usg=__aZ1wgcOcgnfXf2dptG5AfyGtiNM=&h=598&w=272&sz=22&hl=en&start=18&sig2=L-pZeh_iXnj2CIWUXEuWog&um=1&tbnid=6a_9HJug-Ep2WM:&tbnh=135&tbnw=61&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dsilver%2Bmetallic%2Bspray%2Bpaint%2Bfor%2Bglass%26hl%3Den%26rlz%3D1G1GGLQ_ENUS326%26um%3D1&ei=wXU2St-LMMelmQfTvaj8CQ

Chic Chandeliers

I have gotten away from our incorporation of chandeliers in the wedding (it's on our invites, and prob the programs, and we also have a large chandelier from Ebay for the cake table), but my love is still there! I just love the modern romance that they lend to wedding decor. You can imagine my excitement when I saw these at Zgallerie.com:



They are not full chandeliers, but tealight holders! Coming from Zgallerie, the tealight size better fits my budget. Each chandelier is $12.95. As a matter of fact, if you visit the site & take interest in their "Bling" line, you can find most items in a similar replica at Hobby Lobby, at a fraction of the cost. Especially during those half off sales that they have.

I am thinking of getting just a few of these tealight holders for our Head Table to elegantly stagger in between the damask centerpieces & other candles. The dimensions for the holders are 4.5"x7". If I go this route, I will show you guys my finished Head Table mockup & get your input!

It is Better To Give.....

These little Damask mirrors are absolutely fab! They're $5 each at Flirtbutton's Shop on Etsy. I am putting this on my list to add to my Matron of Honor's beautiful bag. I will probably also purchase one for a few of our Wedding Party Attendants.

I also found these perfect little satin jewelry pouches to have perfectly embroidered with monograms & special messages. Being that I have a very small Bridal Party, I can invest a little more time into finding the perfect, sentimental gifts. I plan to buy my Matron of Honor a Coach tote from the outlet (less than $50 & fill with a few personal items). My MOH, as well as our friend serving as Day of Coordinator will receive these lovlies:



I will have an inside joke, scripture, or special message inside. Like this:




I can even put jewelry, or a pretty keychain inside of one of the bag's 8 dividers (sewn inside). I'm also thinking this would be a pretty little bag for our moms. I could put their embroidered handkerchief inside. Our moms would eat this up! They both have beautiful jewelry that could later be put inside of these pouches.


Our bags will be in Tiffany Blue with Damask interior. Seller will sew a solid patch of material inside so that the message shows up clearly. Each pouch is $27, which is within budget for our mom's personal gifts. I think they will love their gifts. Each of the ladies have been such a tremendous part of the planning process & just a major part of Mr.Bridal Bliss & my life in general, that it is such an honor to have these made just for them! I can't wait to see the end results! I will update you guys as soon as they're finished:)

Tayler's Dress Revisited!

So, I bought Tayler (my Flower Girl/Neice) a lovely dress from Sweet Plume's Shop on Etsy. When it arrived, it wasn't really what I thought it would be. Because I typically use my Blog to rave on sellers, I limit any negativity so that each purchaser can judge for themselves.

Fortunately, the seller was incredibly kind in sending money to my Paypal to pay for shipping to send the dress back, and she has given me liberty in her shop to either choose a different style dress, or simply correct the dress that was originally cutomized for Tayler. See the first dress here:
http://queencitybride.blogspot.com/search/label/%7BFlower%20Girl

I picked this Tiffany Blue Damask dress. The style is similar to the old, but the tulle will be generous for a more ballerina style, & the sash will be ivory (seller dosen't offer white) satin with sheen.




I'm keeping my fingers crossed for this dress. Seller is very thorough, & aims to please, so I have no doubts. I'm just amazed that I could actually find something in Damask AND our wedding colors for Tayler! I will post pics of her finished dress!

Dear Wedding Fairy Godmother........

I sure could use a few things for the wedding I'm so fortunate to be planning. Like...

A stinkin' date! I don't ask for much. God already answered my prayers and gave me Smoochieface, but when planning a wedding, a date is sorta helpful.

A new reception site. Because without a date, we lost the old one. Can't have one without the other, ya know?

That's all. Really, I'm easy (please don't say that out loud, lol). As much as I love details, I can do without them all. I just want my day.

Signed,

Feeling Restless

Double Whammy!

Thanks to the fabulous Porcelain at http://sapphyreswedding.blogspot.com.html, I have been re-crowned with a Lovely Blog Award! I never ever grow tired of receiving recognition, because I am totaly flattered & humbled that people (other than myself) really do take the time to visit my blog here.


The last time I received this award, I left messages for "new" blogs that I had recently found. Well, only one participant responded, lol (shoutout to Purr-fection). So, this time, I dedicate this award to everyone who lays eyes on it! If it weren't for people like you I wouldn't have the award, so Thank You!!!

Special Touches for Wedding Party

I am making progress!

Coming soon, will be photos of completed bouquets, boutonnieres & brooch inspired wrist corsages. About a month ago, I posted some pics of my own attempts at bouquets & wrist corsages, & they actually didn't turn out too shabby, but everything still needed some tightening up, so that's what I'm working on. I have decided to let the bouquet that I made for myself be the toss bouquet. The boutonnieres pictured will be for the Ushers. I am scaling down a little for my Groom & his men. Same for my Matron of Honor too. In the meantime, here are a few hints for their arrangements:

1.) They are flowerless
2.) Feathers are involved
3.) They are from Etsy
4.) They are so lovely-licious :)

Okay, so I stop there. Not even a picture! I'm just really excited about it all. I have to wait on my bouquet though. I don't mind being last, but I can only pay for a few things at a time. And still, I may end up making/keeping my own, so we'll see. The best about it all is that I am still under our budget :)

Stay tuned!!

More Shower Stuff!

The Doors to the Banquet Room where the Shower was held.





Thanks to one of my beautiful bloggy visitors, 'Chic 'n Cheap', I will dwell a little more on the Shower I recently had, but emphasize on the food & gifts! The good stuff! I tend to have frequent "duh" moments, so thank goodness for Chic 'n Cheap for the gentle reminder to get some more details! And truthfully, as much as I eat, I am surprised that I didn't mention my lunch first!

So, the menu consisted of the following:

Chicken or Shrimp Caesar Salad, Classic Burger, Teriyaki Chicken Burger, Prime Rib Dip, Shrimp Pita, Cheese Torrellini & Turkey with sun dried tomatoes, and choice sides of fresh fruit, crisp veggies, soup or housemade chips.

For dessert, there were white cupcakes. We all pretty much had sweet tea and/or water.

I ate the Caesar salad, but me being me, had both meats! I had chicken & shrimp. Lemme tell yall. It was GOOOOOOD! Forgive me for the lack of pics, but I don't have any taken of the food :(

Now to the gifts! I was totally blown away by the generosity & attention to detail everyone had for me & my Smoochieface. We received beautiful items for our new home (we are working towards a house after the wedding), including shets, towels, cookware, fondue pots! My fiance & I already have alot of basics, plus furniture, but we are at a point of updating alot of what we have and starting new, so it was so much fun to see all the new shiny items! We also got lots of giftcards to our respective registries (Target & Pottery Barn). We also received a couple's massage gift certificate, checks, cash, & I received a gift certificate to a Spa for a pedicure! Score!! Here are a few of the "paper gifts" scattered out.


And the rest are being put in my handy dandy Damask accordian file. Courtesy of The Dollar Tree.




My Maid of Honor was the sweetest, & had these wrapped favors on each place setting for our guests.



Each favor was a sweetly scented Yankee Candle!

Here is one of my guests winning her prize of Bath & Body Works products, after getting the most answers correct on "How Well Do You Know the Bride?" game.



All of the guests were sure to sign the guest platter before leaving....




And after all the Thank You Card hoopla, I went old school & picked some pretty ones up at "Tarjay", aka Target. I decided to make them more personal for now & hand write my thanks to each guest, because there was just so much I wanted to say to each of them. I loved so many styles there at Target, but I chose these two:






I chose the retro crown style card because I totally felt like a Queen at my Shower, & I chose the traditional gown card with the little textured bow, because it is a pretty & detailed card. I love the little things. Here's a few more pics (please keep in mind that all of these Shower pics have been from my phone. My sis-in-law...she is actually my sister's husband's sister) is puting a cd together of photos she took. Not one of us were asked to pose or say cheese, so I'm a little worried. Anyhoo, here's some more pics:

At the Spa


The refreshment bar. Consisted of herbal/green teas, iced water with orange slices.



Yes, I thought about my blog family, & decided to take a picture of the room where I would later get my Swedish Massage. What you can't see though, is the jacuzzi behind me, & the waterfall (on the wall) to my right. The lights were perfectly dimmed, the room smelled so good, & I could easily move in there, lol.



And here's my sister (MOH), my good friend (in the middle), and my beautiful mom. They decided to form a human Oreo just for the picture, lol.


Okay, that's about all I have ladies! My phone did it's purpose, but I promise to post the real pics as soon as they come available. All I can advise to you beautiful brides about to embark upon your Shower Days, is to just enjoy every minute. Please don't be consumed with who flakes out at the last minute, or who isn't there. Focus on who IS there, & be mindful that this is a celebration for the blessing in which you & your Future Husband are sharing. For those of us fortunate enough to have a Shower, please get rest when you can, & just HAVE FUN! It is such an honor to be celebrated as such & to enjoy your sisterhood with fellow friends & family. Take a deep breath, & take it ALLLLLL in! Don't forget to let each person know how much you appreciate them. Keep in mind that they do have a choice whether or not to spend that time with you! When you are in the midst of it all though, everything just becomes very real. Surreal almost. The Shower to me, was like the 'seal' or prelude to my wedding day.

Bridal Portraits

This July, I am taking my Bridal Pics! I am overjoyed about this oppurtunity. April, of Evoke Photography will be taking my pics. She is awesome. Here's the link to April's site:
http://www.evokenc.com/

Showered With Love

All I can say is WOW. I am totally in awe of how my Bridal Shower went this afternoon. I have to tell you now that I really don't have "real" pictures, other than the few I managed to snap with my Blackberry. As it turned out, my Maid of Honor (sister) left her camera at home, but her sister-in-law brought hers & snapped a few pics. I have to wait for her to send the pics over. That could be awhile...

The colors were tiffany blue & red. Here are the eating tables in the banquet room (shower was held at The Embassy Suites. We then stayed on site for Spa Services).

My beautiful Etsy photo cardbox in action along with the mini mailboxes personalized for me & my groom, by a fellow blogger (see older post):



I resulted to desperate measures, & went to the bathroom (in my spa robe) to take a pic of myself with my bling necklace! It was a hit, & believe me, it wasn't too overpowering. I know the pendant seems gigantic in the pic from the older post, but it is absolutely stunning in person. Everyone seemed like they wanted to touch it, lol. It was made by Etsy seller Maylui. She is incredibly sweet, & she worked super fast just to get the necklace to me in time for the Shower, without charging extra fees. Oh, & you guys remember I was having the wardrobe dilemma? Well, I found the perfect white dress with a low cut, victorian style collar & wore that. It was 30 bucks!





And, to top it all off (for now), here is my infamous toe shot, instead of the ring shot, lol. I only got a few feet here, but lemme tell ya...those feet were the bomb diggity!



Okay, so more pics to come later from the shower!

Just Give Me A Sign...

I am considering purchasing one of these chic custom signs to display at our reception. Not only will people know where they are, lol, but they will do so in style.

The signs sell for $36 at Wedding Chick's shop on Etsy.com.

***Edit*** I just re-visited page, & signs are now $44 plus shipping

On The Prowl!

For these ziploc sandwich bags:



I plan to make little "Survival Kits" for my Maid of Honor, as well as my mom, fiance's mom and my two girlfriends who are serving as DOC's. Here's what they will look like:



I plan on using a black & white tab attached to the damask sandwich bag. If not, I can always go for the free bags that I already have in my cabinet, lol.

I will put the following in these bags:

Tylenol
Bandaids
Tic Tacs
Sugar Free Gum
Deodorant
Tampons (except our moms)
Kleenex


Everything will be from The Dollar Store, or Target's $1 section. I received the images from http://www.weddingbycolor.com/amcs76. You can also download free templates there for the kit toppers! Here's another site for free templates:
http://www.yourweddingwardrobe.com.au/blog/?p=1016

You can also put the items in clear cellophane bags. The options are endless!

Reserved Seating Signs

It's still a work in progress. I was trying to get away from the traditional dimensions, & do more of a 'panoramic' style card. I used some cardstock & scroll scrapbook paper that I had on hand here, but I only had enough for one sign, lol, so I only have my dad's posted tonight. I am going to play around with embossing & some other styles next week, so I will post as I complete. Overall, I'm pretty pleased. I don't want damask or chandelier overkill, so I am happy about the texture of this style.

Oh, & yes I am the one who tied that bow. No, I did not get a monkey to do it. Yes, I am struggling with that bow. Carry on. There's nothing more to see here.

A Lovely Parasol!

This Posy Parasol was found on Martha Stewart's website, with a diy link here: http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/images/content/web/pdfs/2009Q2/msw_spr09_parasolpetaltemplate.pdf


I can't wait to make this! I just need a 28inch parasol, crepe paper & the above template for the flower. I think this will make beautiful pictures, & better yet, my Flower Girl can enjoy it afterwards!

I Need Help!

Okay, so..I really don't want to spend an arm & a leg on something to wear for my Bridal Shower, but it's like I have nothing to wear! I look in my closet, & it's just screaming "BORING" to me! I can't complain...I do have nice clothes, but I just can't find anything that seems Shower worthy :)

I am feeling extra thick & bloated this week, so I'm trying to cut the salt, sugar & soft drinks that I sometimes hang out with, lol. That will help me to feel better about whatever I decide to wear. I've been looking online for some outfit inspiration, and could really use your help. For starters, I need a low, v-neck or scoop neckline, because I will be wearing this baby for my necklace (not the earrings):




It's by Maylui Designs on Etsy! I heart this necklace, & although the pendant looks the size of a baby seal, it is actually 50 mm long, which translates to about 2 inches :) Since this is a pretty sized chunk, my earrings will be simple, & so will my attire.

And, I was checking out White House Black Market for a nice dress, because I love their clean lines.

Should I go Black?


Or White?



Or Both?


The dresses are great at White House Black Market, but are really more than what I'd prefer to spend for one day. The dresses I chose are over the $100 mark, but I can't justify spending more on a dress for my Shower than I did for my own wedding dress! Yep...I like nice things, but I try to cut where I can. I know I will get more use out of anything I buy there, but the pics above are inspiration, so please let me know which is your fave! I'm thinking I can find a similar style at Ross or TJ Maxx for less. Any suggestions? I'm open!

Monogram Repost

My FH & I have a total of 6 monograms, 4 from Delovely Designs Blogspot & 2 from Jessica's Designshop. About 4 of them had our wedding date on them, but as you know, we are waiting to secure our true date. With that being said, Charlotte of Delovely Designs & Jessica of her self-named Designshop revised our monograms to be dateless. This is the safe way for me to continue planning & printing things going forth! And quite honestly. I just love monograms. If I didn't have so many other things to take care of, I would order 10 more monograms! If you haven't seen the all of my project eye candy, here they are:


This lovely thang adorns our Out of Town boxes. I simply love it.


This pretty number graces our aisle runner...


No home for this little piggy yet....


Or this one....


I'm thinking of incorporating this into our Program design or something...


Any suggestions for this design?



Or this one? I'm thinking maybe for the matchboxes. This monogram is from Etsy. Seller is Wedding Monograms.

We already have water bottle labels for the out of town boxes, & I haven't planned on doing any more, but it's always a possibility closer to the wedding. I would use the extra water bottles for our reception. Maybe 1 of the designs for our Sparkling Cider bottles (for the toast)..

Also, one of the designs will be printed onto our Welcome Booklets (going into the OOT boxes).

I probably won't use any of the monograms for our paper napkins. I already have a simple chandelier motif selected from www.foryourparty.com (where I am ordering napkins).

I won't need any monograms for our favors. That's done.

Any other suggestions?

An Award....For Me?!

I have to say thanks to www.Zimchic.wordpress.com!!! She was kind enough to gift this award to me for having a 'Lovely Bridal Blog'. So exciting!

The Rules:

1) Accept the award and post it on your blog along with the name of the person who gave you the award and a link to their blog.

2) Pass the award along to 15 lovely blogs you’ve recently discovered, remembering to let them know they’ve won by leaving them a comment! Man.....15 is a lot of blogs to come up with!

The Lovely Winners:

1.) Fabulous Planning & Consultation Blog- http://www.heidzillas.com
2.) Detailed Wedding Info- http://weddingcabaret.blogspot.com/
3.) Local Photography Blog- http://www.jeremyigo.com/blog/ (uber fabulous)
4.)Fashion Blog-http://iamfashion.blogspot.com/
5.) Baking Blog- http://sweettreatsbakingblog.blogspot.com/ (because yall know I love to eat)
6.)Southern Food Blog- http://sweetbytesblog.blogspot.com/2009/03/serving-up-sunshine-sweet-potato.html (because again, yall know I love to eat, lol)
7.) Hair Care- http://mynewhairattitude.wordpress.com/ (she is the total business)
8.) Do Your Own Invitations Blog- http://www.do-it-yourself-invitations.com/do-it-yourself-invitations-blog.html
9.) All things Paper- http://designsbytine.blogspot.com

My other recommendations are coming soon! For now, I'm off to work!

Centerpiece Partial Trial- Phase I

Well, I decided it's about time to narrow down exactly what I want for my centerpieces. I pretty much know the elements that I want, but not the specific visual. Some things that I will include are:

Diamond Confetti, some type of table square or runner, lots of candles, a vase with a floral arrangement resting on top. Here's a few pics of the vases I made...





The pics are very plain. I dont have the plates pictured, & I am not sure if I'm keeping the tiffany blue ribbon/band in the same place on the vase. I am also considering adding feathers to the base of the peony pomander (a few feathers are added in one of the pics). Also, I bought some aqua blue rhinestone trim to hot glue onto my votive vases in a sortof zigzag fashion.




For the base, I used a cylinder vase from the Dollar Store, double sided tape & flocked Damask scrapbook paper.

::Sigh::

I really, really want one of these stunning hair combs for my Bridal Shower (and beyond). The prices start in the low $60's and go up from there.






I just can't afford any of them. I already need to find something to wear, & with all the little things I've been trying to tackle this month, it's just not in the budget. If you'd like to visit the shoppe, check out Belle Nouvelle Designs' wonderful place on Etsy. :)

Giving Thanks

Above Image from Curlygomes on Etsy

If you've been hanging out with me & my blog lately, you'll be familiar with the Bridal Shower festivities that are a mere 14 days away!!

So, with that being said, I want to be prepared with a personalized thank you card to give within the first few days of receiving gifts. I plan to go thru Vista Print for printing services, since they're affordable & I can get postcards for free right now. I haven't played around with many designs, but here are a few that I am considering:








Just a sidenote: The colors for the Shower will be Tiffany Blue with Red accents, but for the thank you card, I just am being very open. I like so many elements, & I really don't care to be matchy-matchy, but prefer to be fun & classy.

If you guys have any suggestions or fondness of any particular design(s), please let me know! I am trying to hurry up & get something decided next week. :)

I can't Wait!

To stand with my FH, & light our beautiful crystal embellished Unity Candle.


Handmade by the awesome Domestic Divas Fancy, on Etsy.com.


Ashley, with Domestic Divas Fancy worked up a couple of designs for me & even after I ok'd the first design, she hesitated sending the candle out to me right away, because she knew my taste even better, and ended up presenting me with my current Chandelier Chic candle! You just can't ask for anything more than a Seller who is actually out for quality work, rather than making a buck. To ensure that I was pleased, and talk to me in the weeee hours of the morning in securing my vision is astounding! Also, it's a little hard to read in the pic, but I Corinthians 13:13 scripture is at the bottom of the candle. It reads: And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Of course, the Unity Candle isn't all about it's looks. The meaning is everything to me. To become one with my FH and his family means the world to me, so get ready for the ugly cry photos during the lighting, lol...

Be sure to visit her shop & convo her even if an item you're searching for isn't there. She can do most anything that is requested! And on top of that, she'll make sure you're pleased!

Guest "Book" Revision

To update my previous post about my Bridal Shower Guest Book, I am now using a platter for my guests to sign. I love it, as I can display it later. I STILL love the custom guestbooks, but the platter was a gift, and well.....more money in my pockets is always a plus :) Here's a couple of pics. The platter is from AC Moore.




Although it's a bummer to not be using the chic guestbook, I am very pleased with the platter, and will be sure to take pics of the signed keepsake!

Lollipop Goodies

I can't wait to make this, only with a jumbo lollipop (swirl tiffany blue)!


So that I can cluster several of them into a bouquet form, sorta like this:


It will be for the kiddies...

If you would like to purchase this size & pay the full price, check out www.accenttheparty.com

Coming Soon....

I have about 30 days (or less) before I get to see our Wedding Cardbox! I love many different styles of cardboxes....from cages, to mailboxes to cake-style boxes, but once I found Shea Chic Designs on Etsy last year, I knew I had to stop there.

I actually placed my order back in late March, & the seller is really full with custom work, so if you like what you see on her shop, I recommend placing your order in plenty of time before the wedding. Fortunately for me, we are pushing our wedding date back anyway, so it only gives me more time to have the box before the wedding! Yay :)

So, a few descriptions about my box is that it has more than one tier, it has more than one shape, & it is inspired by a cake I found months ago. I think it is even in this blog somewhere:) My box is not yet featured in the seller's shop, as it is one of a kind! So, I am uber excited, and I can't wait to share it with you guys!

Far Above Rubies

So, I am in the process of getting the gifts together & finalized for our Wedding Party. Included in the gifts will be personalized T-Shirts. I wanted to go untraditional with this project, & steer away from the ever popular shirts with wedding party roles on the front (or back). As much as I love them ( and will probably be wearing a "bride" shirt myself), I just wanted to gift something to them that will actually reflect them, not a role.

As a sneak peek, I am sharing my Matron of Honor's shirt design with you guys. Her shirt design stemmed from a favorite chapter in the Bible; Proverbs 31. In a nutshell, A Proverbs 31 woman has a worth and value far above measure. She is excellent in person, and character, & she has great generosity, influence & devotion. That is my Matron of Honor (and more).



I still have many more to share with you all, once they are completed. I have our Flower Girl, Ring Bearers, Groomsmen, & even my ex-Maid of Honor because I had already started on her gifts before she was dismissed from the wedding party. I am also considering transferring just the graphic, or just the scripture onto a tote bag for my MOH....Each shirt will be rolled, & tied in damask ribbon, and included with the other gifts.

Stay tuned for more pics!

Sign me Up!!

I found a guestbook for my Bridal Shower! Yayyyy! Well, lemme rephrase that: I found a STUNNING guestbook for my Bridal Shower! Yayyyy!

Actually, TheHandmadeBoutique on Etsy.com is creating a custom guestbook for yours truly, and the seller actually understands the beauty of Tiffany Blue, as she used it in her own wedding! There are specials going on at the shop, so check it out quickly while awesome offers last! You guys all know that I'm all about saving some bucks!!!

Here is just a taste of styles from The Handmade Boutique's delicious store!




Yep...those are Swarvoski Crystals on Dupioni Silk :) So Chic!


Polaroid Guest Books..



I absolutely LOVE when I convo a seller & they take the time to put my request first. I emailed seller this evening, & we've already carried a full blown convo, got the order set, & are ready to go. Just like that.

As far as the design of my guestbook goes...that is a surprise! I will certainly post pics of the finished product! In the meantime, checkout The Handmade Boutique's Flickr account, which displays a lovely variety of fabrics & completed guestbooks to drool over. http://www.flickr.com/photos/thehandmadeboutique/

What's Your Sign.....

I knew I shoulda went on to bed. But nooooooooooooooooooooo, I had to roll up on Etsy! I fell in serious like, when I saw these:








I would love to have one of these on the guestbook table to direct guests to the reception, or on an easel somewhere..I don't know. I'm thinking of where one of these shabby chic signs would go best...Or, our names & wedding date would be beautiful, then we could display it as a keepsake in our home.

Seller is Signs by Diane!

Happy Mother's Day!!!

Rah Rah for Damask!

Ordinary Aqua Blue pompoms from The Dollar Tree



Wrapped in Damask Packing Tape


Turns into another fun goodie to add to the kid's favor paint cans for the reception.

I purchased the packing tape (damask) from www.organize.com

The Evolution of a Cupcake Stand...

I started on my Cupcake stand last night. I gradually pulled my little styrofoam cake "dummies" out.....


And began wrapping Tiffany Blue satin ribbon from Micheal's around the circumference. Securing with pearl corsage pins....


I also traced each cardboard cake platter onto my Damask wrapping paper that I bought at Hobby Lobby during the holidays, & then began cutting away.....



A simple glue stick did the trick to attach the wrapping paper to the cardboard cake platters. I then positioned each wrapped cardboard piece on top of the styrofoam cakes, cascading into a tier effect. Here's a view from the top. If you look closely, you can see my sparkly cake topper....


I added rhinestone trim with my handy dandy hot glue gun(I purchased by the yard at Hobby Lobby. Be sure to use a coupon for this stuff, as it adds up QUICKLY).




And here's a glance of the pearl corsage pins....



The fact that my pins aren't lined up evenly disturbs me, so I will correct that before the Big day:)

Here's an overall shot....
Try to imagine our cake on top (to cut) & cupcakes on each tier.

I might take the last tier off because the last two are the same size/width. It really should be larger for a more tiered effect, but maybe I'll just leave it be.

Speaking of using your imagination, here's the Filigree Cupcake Wraps that I ordered. They will not be assembled until a week or so before the wedding....




They'll end up looking something like this....


And because space seems to be somewhat limited on this cupcake stand, I am also making little individual damask "pedestals" to display extra cupcakes, maybe of different flavors. I might as well use what I have here on hand...





Please share your thoughts! I'm open to suggestions :)
Thanks for visiting!

Flower Power....Attempt #1

This is a bouquet teaser that I am working on with peonies, full bloom roses & crystal embellishments, & feathers...

I really wanted to order all the flowers from Etsy, but it got really costly, plus I wanted to personalize this myself. I am still planning to order my bouquet from Etsy, but I even played around with that tonight as well. I used things that I already had here. For the bouquet, maybe I can let my MOH carry it, or use it in the toss??

Oh, & try to give the photos the benefit of the doubt. I was using my phone. I'm accepting any pity here, because I did a sorta shabby job, & I'm not talkin' shabby chic.


For The Groom....

I went with a Magnolia, because it has caught my eye in the whole search process for my FH. It's big & romantic, just like him :)

For His Guys....


I haven't wrapped the stem in ribbon yet, so please use your imagination :)

For Our Moms....





Here is the "bracelet" all stretched out (and wrinkled, lol).
I took a rough pic here, with the tail of the ribbon hanging off the side of my wrist...sorry! I really think this will look nice with brooches, so I may do the flower ribbon wristlets for the women who are helping with the wedding party (greeters, cardbox attendant, etc..), & the brooches for our moms. I'll post the final pics..For some reason, the ribbon looks more teal, almost emerald in the pics, but it is actually an iridescent aqua/tiffany blue. It matches my Matron of Honor's dress perfectly. I still have some tightening up to do on each flower, but this is my very first attempt at floral things, so I'll keep at it til I get it right.

Don't Forget the Dollar Tree!

A few months ago, I was in The Dollar Tree & came across some really nice dishes that will work for our head table.



I like the fact that they're not totally damask, but they have that damask look. Very filigree-esque. Plus, for a set of 24 pieces, they are only $24! The set comes with 8 plates, 8 bowls & 8 mugs. This is the set that is available at Dollartree.com. I can always purchase ala carte in a local store. We probably won't need the mugs, but the set provides enough for my Wedding Party, without having to rent. Plus, Smoochieface & I can keep the dinnerware later in our home.



They also have quality glassware to choose from. Of course, it's not the stuff you buy at Macy's, but if you take the time to look through some of their heavier pieces, they serve the purpose very well.



As for our guests....we plan to do a faux china in bulk to cut costs. Plus, being that we are having friends from Culinary School prepare & setup the food, I want to have minimal cleanup. Faux china is the way to go for us, being that it is easy cleanup, & still stylish.

Have You Ever...

Have you ever met someone so sweet that you just may feel like you must have been on your best behavior in order to meet them? Lol, I have! I actually haven't met Ashley Cornewell, of Domestic Divas Fancy, but I have had the honor to chit chat with her online. Domestic Divas Fancy is on Etsy.com, and Ashley is also a fellow blogger.


http://domesticdivasfancy.blogspot.com/ Check out her Fabulous Blog!

First of all, so that you know a little history, I am ordering my Unity Candle from Ashley. Her work is beautiful, & her prices are wallet friendly. I was so flattered that a woman of her calibur had even visited (plus commented) my blog. I felt like a celebrity, lol. :) When I contacted Ashley about my interest in her candles, she soon replied with a thoughtful gesture to help me with tackling my long list of wedding 'to-do's'. It may not seem like much to most, but I respect & understand the hard work that alot of Etsy sellers (and beyond) have to invest into their online services, other careers, blogs, family, etc., and for her to offer with such a genuine interest is very humbling & appreciated!

Not only that, but a friend of mine contacted me on like a minute's notice to create some signage for a Housewarming (Polka Dot) Ice Cream Shower. She needed the signs asap, & because I really wasn't able to do all she needed in the time frame, I asked a couple of people, including Ashley. She was the only one who responded, & even sent images to me dispite a major storm in her area knocking out her use of a computer. She was more concerned about me getting my signs, & actually apologized to me, after all she had been through.

She used the colors & words that my friend requested, & created exactly what was asked of her. Here's a peek (hopefully I can show you guys pictures of these files in use)! :



We requested an Ice Cream Shoppe sign, a "Celebrate" sign, & a "Rejoice". Unfortunately, my computer is not uploading the other designs Ashley came up with, but I will post them at a later date, if possible.

Thanks Ashley!

Shake Your Budoir

Although I haven't officially marked my calendar for my Budoir Photos, I got in the spirit over the weekend & started taking some of my own, just to see how "creative" I could get on camera. The difficult part was that I was pretty bootleg by using my Blackberry, so you can imagine that I had to be VERY creative with my angles & leverage, lol. But, it was very fun, & I could see my best and not so best features on camera. By the way, I do have a digital camera (a Christmas gift), but the screen is shattered internally somehow. I have to get it fixed or go get another
:(, so I used what I had.

I would love to share, but they turned into more adult pics, than tastefully budoir, lol, so please just use your imagination here! They really aren't that bad, lol, but not for internet sharing. I'm trying to keep everything low key until I get the official budoir pics back. My plan for my photos is to compile them into a magazine style gift. Something like Maxim or King Magazine. I will have to get creative with the layout of the magazine (with very little text, lol), but I think Mr. Bridal Bliss will really enjoy it! Here's some photo inspiration (I also have more photos in an older post from 08).


Who the heck can compete with Stacey Dash!?!? But hey, this is my 'cover' inspiration:)




With all that being said, I wanted to share with you some very helpful information from Weddingbee. They have provided a wealth of knowledge to consider whether you are doing your own pics, or hiring a professional. I am hoping to hook up with my cyber sis, (Gorgeous) Ebonee at Becoming His Mrs. Blogspot, this fall to do pics the same day, down in Florida! I think this could be so much fun! Anyhoo, here are the tips from Weddingbee.....

Boudoir pictures, also known as intimate photos, are a very popular gift for your fiance or spouse. The word "boudoir" can be translated to mean "a woman's private dressing room, sitting room or bedroom." These photos are sexy photos of you, usually taken by a professional photographer. They can be taken in your own home, a hotel room or in a studio.

You can dress in anything you feel comfortable in, anything that your fiance or spouse would like to see you in. Suggestions include: a favorite shirt of your fiance, various items of lingerie, swim wear and undergarments. Boudoir photos are not necessarily nude photos, and most of the time they aren't. The illusion of nudity is often seen as more sexy than actual nudity.


TIPS

1.) A helpful mindset to have when taking boudoir pics is: don't take any photos that you couldn't show your best friend.
Get inspired before taking your photos by checking out other boudoir portfolios -- Maxim magazine covers are also a good inspiration for interesting setups.
Sometimes, the photographer will have a stylist available (usually someone with professional modeling experience) to help you get the right pose for each outfit/session.

2.) Bring a friend along that may help you with making sure "nothing is hanging out."

3.) Look for a photographer whose photos you love, and not necessarily a "boudoir" photographer.

4.) Bring a fan and music for the shoot.

5.) A good photographer will highlight your best assets so be proud of your body.

6.) Ask if you can chat with previous clients to get a feel for what the style of the photographer is like.

7.) Be comfortable with yourself--and talk to the photographer before you bare it all to see what they want to shoot, what they are hoping to get out of the session, and most importantly, what you want to get out of the session!

8.) A good boudoir photographer will ask questions like "Is there any particular feature that your fiance loves or that makes you feel especially good about yourself?" or "What body part would you like to me avoid taking pictures of?" (this is mainly why I experimented ALONE this weekend. SometimesI look different on camera from the way I feel that I look).

9.)If you book a hotel room for the shoot ask the front desk to assign you to a room facing the sunrise if you are doing an AM shoot, or the sunset if you are doing a sunset shoot. This will give your photographer the best possible light to work with. Hotels typically do room assignments 2-3 days before the actual date of your stay.
Don't forget to take some smiling, laughing, bright and happy shots as well. Your guy probably likes seeing you with a smile on your face as much as he likes seeing you play the role of the seductress.

POPULAR PROPS
Including items that have meaning to your fiance make it more personal.

Favorite Sports Team souveneir, like a jersey or football
If he loves playing guitar, include it in a few shots
If you are shooting somewhere with a bathtub, fill it with flowers, bubbles, milk, or other floating things and take some fun bathtub shots.


BUDOIR ATTIRE
http://www.victoriassecret.com/
http://www.trashy.com/
http://www.pinupgirlclothing.com/
http://www.agentprovocateur.com/

WEDDINGBEE POSTS
http://www.weddingbee.com/2008/08/26/my-diy-boudoir-photos/ from Miss Candy Corn
http://www.weddingbee.com/2008/08/25/a-bare-hydrangea/ from Mrs.Hydrangea
http://www.weddingbee.com/2007/08/17/tonys-girls/ from Mrs.Onion

Cardbox

A couple of posts ago, I mentioned Crystal Heagerty's Shop at Etsy.com, who is completing my cardbox for my Bridal Shower in May. I must say that Crystal is super friendly, & keeps her word on product deadlines, because she just emailed me photos of my completed cardbox, & I am SO pleased AND excited to get it in the mail! She totally nailed it!




I love Photo Cardboxes, and this one just has a different, chic feel to it than alot of the other styles I've seen. I love that it is uncommon, & I can completely change the look with different photos later on.




One of the Best things about Crystal is that her prices are really affordable for a Bride on a budget.

Date Change Postcards

{Just click the image to better see the text}

I LOVE it! Charlotte, at Delovely Designs Blogspot totally caught my vision & ran with it. I wanted something whimsical, with a slight retro feel. I wanted it to be fun! I had searched online previously for 'postponed wedding announcements', & it seemed like there was nothing. Whatever I could find was very bland or traditional. Not us.

Anyhoo, these announcements are getting printed & sent out asap for our out of town guests.

Happy Friday!

Narrowing down the LIST

As most of you know, I keep another blog at Wedding by Color, where I can sortof "scrapbook" my wedding planning ideas & comment with lots of other brides about our happenings.

Well, while on the forum, I have had the honor of meeting some awesome brides, one of which is selling me a damask trifle bowl & her crystal tree. I got the combo for a great deal this way, & the tree is something I've ALWAYS wanted near the entrance of our reception (wherever the heck that's gonna be, lol). I plan to have it on a place card or guestbook table. Here's a few lovely photos of what I'm getting:



You may notice a hint of purple crystals blended in. She of course had a purple wedding, but I won't be needing them. I am considering hanging a few full bloom white roses, peonies or orchids from just a few crystal strands.



And the cement trifle bowl:



I believe that the seller used this for holding her bubble wands. I might steal this idea for the kids. Not sure just yet. I might use it for our send-off sparklers... Any suggestions?

Wedding Date Updates

So.....new wedding date updates are that there are none, lol! My wonderful fiance & I are taking our time right now with the executing plans & such, and waiting until the job/career status is secured until buckling down our true wedding date.

In the meantime, our out of town guests REALLY need to know what is going on, so I contacted Charlotte over at Delovely Designs Blogspot a few weeks back to come up with a fun, to the point announcement to mail out to everyone who received a Save-the-Date a few months back....mainly our out of towners.

It's pretty easy for us to contact most by phone, but some have been unreachable. And, not all of our guests have email. I probably also coulda just typed something, but I opted for something a little more creative. However, once we reset our date, I will not spend another dime on Save-the-Dates. We will invest in our invitations & pray that everyone can still attend.

Stay tuned for our "Moved Date" announcement. I will post it as soon as Charlotte completes it.

Tag....I'm It!

Thanks to Future Mrs. D, over at http://gettingmymrs.blogspot.com/, I have officially been tagged! Fun stuff! Thanks Mrs. D!!!

The Rules are as Follows:
1. Choose a minimum of 7 blogs for brilliance in content/design.
2. Show the winners and let them know.
3. List at least 10 honest things about yourself.

So for my ten honest things:

1- I am not a fan of "Speidi", aka Heidi & Spencer from The Hills, however, I think that Heidi's hair is fabulous.
2- My favorite breakfast cereals are Fruit Loops, Capn' Crunch, Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal & Cream of Wheat.
3- I've discovered I'm very much into the little details.
4- I like to talk to my fiance on the phone before I start my day, & right before I go to sleep. He means that much to me, & I tend to feel a little off when this routine is interrupted.
5- I don't have severe road rage, but I HATE when people cut me off & don't wave to say "thanks", & I also HATE when people speed out in front of me, then drive slow. Why didn't they stay in a hurry? I also don't like when people leave their turn signal on. Uggh!
6- I've always prided myself as being understanding. Who's perfect? Not me. Not you. So why judge? I don't have the time to make someone into who I want them to be. I've learned that God is VERY good at what HE does. Why mess with it. Well....lemme make a contradiction :::clearing throat::: I mean, exception here. I guess I do want to judge the people in #5. Lol..
7- I'm always looking to see what I can help with, improve or create. As you know, I love the details. I love to see others fulfilled & blessed in all ways. If I can be a part of that, I am elated.
8- I'm a lover not a fighter. But if you mess with my Smoochieface, or hurt my family, then it's fair game, lol. Don't say I didn't warn you. :)
9- I love romance. It dosen't have to be roses delivered every Friday, but an occasional message to say "I love You", or cooking me dinner, or just some quality time is everything to me. Show interest. If you love someone, show it. We don't have forever.
10- I love Chick Flics! Put on The Notebook, My Bestfriend's Wedding, Steel Magnolias, & I'm a wrap! I love to eat Mint Chocolate Chip ice cream from Baskin Robbins, or Haagen Daaz plain Vanilla (theirs is the only Vanilla I like). I love doing my toenails, & my new fetish is strappy heels in funky colors! Well, maybe I just got carried away & tried to blend a few into one answer, but hey, I had to mention some food on here!

Now I get to tag a few divas!!! They include:

Purr-fection at http://purrfectlyimperfect.blogspot.com/

Okay, okay. This is soooo bootleg, but yall... I don't even feel like typing the rest of the names! Please forgive me! My "details" aren't working right now, so just let this be a to be continued....

I promise to post the rest of the wonderful tagees this week! xoxoxo

Shower Plans

Despite our wedding date being pushed a little further out, my Bridal Shower will stay put! My sister is the fabulous Matron of Honor, and she has teamed up with my awesome friends near & far to put together a Spa Day Bridal Shower, at the Embassy Suites! It will take place at the end of May!! I am totally elated!

The theme is an 'Around the Clock' theme, which means that the guest can bring something for any time of day. For example, "Sally Sue" might bring a coffee maker for some A.M. brew.....or "Linda Mae" might bring some sexeeeee lingerie for the midnight hour. The options are limitless.

The whole Spa thing comes into the agenda for those who may be up for any pampering & additional time with yours truly, aka the bride to be! My sister has lined up a time for lunch & the Shower, and for those who want manicures, pedicures, massages, or any additional spa services, they can stay for the "after party" to have those things done. It's different, & just a good time for all of us ladies. There are even room availabilites at discounted rates for those who have traveled, or simply want a night out. I am one of those girls, lol.

So, with all that being said, say hello to my little friend...the Gorgeous Shower Cardbox:



Try to imagine this cardbox in white, with tiffany blue satin ribbon, rather than the hot pink. I love this particular cardbox because it is like a memoboard, where our engagement photos will be displayed. The seller (from Etsy, of course, lol) takes care of everything including the photos being matted. The photos will be from our Engagement session, in black & white. Here's a few more shots:





I am looking into getting a complimenting guestbook from the same seller. The cardbox is from the super nice Crystal Heagerty's Shop, & her turnaround time seems to be pretty good. I will post the finished product as soon as it comes in!! I can't wait :)

Pretty Dress

So, about a month ago I mentioned a beautiful little dress for my beautiful little neice to wear on my wedding day. Well, I received the dress about a week or two ago, & although it wasn't really what I was expecting, I still like it very much! The above pic is an upclose shot of 1 of the 2 flowers the seller sent me. She was so kind as to send me one in a blueish, aqua shade, as well as white, so that I could pick which one I liked the most!

The quality is really nice, & in person, it is very lovely! I will add more tulle though. I was a little deceived by the original pic. The seller is Sweetplume in Etsy.

Here is the pretty paper the dress was wrapped up in when I received it:



I purposely went up a size, because of our date change. I will probably get a satin sash to match the MOH dress. Other than that, it's a wrap!



Please excuse the polka dot attire, lol. I slipped the dress on top of Tayler's pj's. :) These photos were taken with my phone, so they're a little dark..

Photo Guestbook In Progress!

So, some time ago, I mentioned to you guys that we will have a Damask photo guestbook at the reception. Well, after many days, I finally uploaded the rest of our engagement photos & will order the book soon. Here is a glimpse of the cover:


I can't seem to save & upload the other pages to show you!! Sorry!! I am ordering the book from www.photoworks.com.

TGIF!

Happy Friday to everyone. Ummmm.....that is all, lol.

I Love These!

I've seen these damask flip flops online before, but never gave much consideration to providing comfy shoes for guests as they dance their pretty little toes off. But, after seeing them again on The Knot, from Katie & Jeff's 'Real Wedding', I am about to start scouring The Dollar Store (where bride found these).

The List

Wow. I sat down tonight & made an updated list for everything needed for our wedding. On my actual Word Doct, I have strikethroughs to show me what has been completed, but on here, they are not evident. So, just imagine that I am only 50% done. Looks like having more time added to my plate was really in my favor.

I mainly am posting this here to help me keep up with my progress. Please just carry on....nothing much to see here. :)


Ceremony
Pomanders (almost done)
Aisle Vases
Aisle Runner
Unity Candle
Manzanita Arrangements for Altar
Music List
Floating Candles for Aisle
Programs
Venue
Bouquets
Ring Bearer Signs
Flower Girl’s Pomander Ball
Crystal Strands with Flowers for Altar (almost done)
Tears of Joy Packets

Reception
Cake/Bakery
Cupcake Stand
Table Linens
Chair Linens
Book DJ
Music List
Centerpieces
Candles
Cardbox Ordered
Crystal Tree
Place Cards
Table Numbers
Menus
Venue
Guestbook(s)
Toasting Flute/Cake Cutting Set
Favors
Bathroom Baskets
Frames
Photos for Frames
Photo Sharing Cards Ordered
Vases
Diamond Confetti
Damask Tablecloth for Placecard Table
Chargers for Head Table
Disposable China: Plates, cups, utensils
Personalized Napkins for Dessert
Napkins for Dinner
Led Lights
Book Food (Kapresha finalizing menu)
Slide Show Arrangement
Sparklers
Matches

Apparel
Fiance’s Ring
Buy Dress
Order Tux
Bridal Party Dress
Groomsmen Tux
Ring Bearers Tux
Flower Girl’s Dress
My Shoes
My Earrings
My Necklace
My Veil
Bridal Party Jewelry
Boutonierres
Corsages
Hair Trial
Makeup Trial
Undergarments
Lace Bolero
Bride Bling Jacket
Garter
Shoe Clips
Brooch for Shannon’s Bracelet
Chandelier Clip-ons for Shannon

Rehearsal Dinner
Pizza, Chicken Alfredo, & Salad
Sliced Pound Cake & Gourmet Ice Cream Bars
CD’s for Music
Invites
Games

Misc.
Set a Date
Mail Date Change Notices
Book Photographer
Order Invites (Design is Set)
Engagement Pics
Honeymoon
Book Hair Appt.
Book Makeup
Guest List & Addresses
Get Marriage License
Mail Wedding Invites
Out of Town Boxes
MOH Gifts
DOC Gifts
Parent & Pastor Gifts
Wedding Party Gifts
Book wedding night room

Earring Update

I received my earrings from Velvet Olive on Etsy, & all I can say is WOWZA!

The seller was super sweet & paid close attention to detail in making my perfect, custom earrings. They are tear drop, Austrian Swarvoski crystals, with silver findings & settings. I didn't want studs, I wanted something that felt more like "me". The stones are 30mm, almost 1 1/2 inches:).



I tried them on with my necklace from my great grandma, & it's a perfect match.

Heller-o Bolero!

Okay, maybe that was a little cheezy, but I was mixing up how Madea would say hello, & rhyming it with Bolero....yep, it's been a long week.

So...lemme give some great news first. I got my bolero! Yay! I eyed it for a long while on Etsy & actually debated between 2 different styles. One was from seller Rohm, the other from seller Maryangelika. What was extra sweet is that my aunt actually gifted the bolero of my choice to me, so I went the modestly priced, couture style:




It is white lace with intricate beading, & I received it this week in the mail. All I can say is that the pics really don't do it justice. I was completely overjoyed when I tried it on! I am very grateful, & it is the perfect touch to my dress. However, it is alot of lace with my Mantilla veil. I don't plan on getting rid of it though (the veil). A birdcage veil would look awesome with it, but I am not going back on my first choice.

Now to the "other news" (I don't believe in bad news. News is news). I lost my Maid of Honor. Well, actually I sorta fired her. It's a long story, & very hurtful, so I will not elaborate, but the base is that things haven't been what I really thought they'd be, & rather than having an uninvolved body present on my wedding day, rather than a best friend, I felt it best to severe it now.

The other-other news is that I will no longer be a June bride. Sigh. My fiance & I have to move the wedding date, yet again. I do not have a date to announce just yet, but yes, we are still getting married, & very much in love, and it's nothing bad that he did, lol. We are facing circumstances beyond our control, so I am continuing to trust & fully rely on God. He has everything well covered, & as frustrated & hurt as I am, I know that He does not make mistakes. I am grateful that He has still shown us such mercy, despite how things may seem.

As my relief, I am packing in between the typing. I am just going for the weekend to spend time alone at a Hilton Garden Inn in South Carolina. My sister had gotten me a rate at 1/4 of the original price a few weeks back, & it couldn't be more on time. I'd love to invite my Smoochieface, or a girlfriend or my mom to just have a girl's weekend, but I really could use this time for myself for a change...just to breathe & cry a little. I think I'll just sleep til noon (I haven't had that in soooo long), & eat loaded nachos in bed, & go catch a movie. The weather is supposed to be beautiful tomorrow & Sunday, so I am way looking forward to my secret getaway!

Everyone have a WONDERFUL weekend!!

P.S. I will post my cupcake stand soon. I have been very slack, but I'm almost finished!

Pretty Clutches

I am a huge fan of handbags, especially clutches. I found these stunners on Etsy today, & am considering purchasing 1 or 2 for my friend, who is serving as our Day of Coordinator, and maybe my Matron of Honor as well. I think that any of these would look awesome with my MOH's dress!






Seller Shakukayu.

Here I Come :)

I got my ring bearer's banners (my twin nephews) back from Etsy yesterday, & I'm really excited about them. They are small enough for each stud to carry on his own:



Here's pretty much what it'll look like as they each come down the aisle.
Hopefully it'll loosen up my Future Hubby's nerves as he waits for me to come to meet him at the altar. :)

A New Dress :)

For Tayler!! Here she is enjoying her cup o' snow a couple of weeks ago.




Awhile back, I had posted the cutest ever dress for Tayler, found on Little Flowers dot com. Well, a few hundred dollars later, I reminded myself that although their dresses are of great beauty, and quality, the fact of the matter is that Tayler will not get a whole lot of use out of it, especially at the rate she is growing. So, over the last couple of months, I've been trying to find something local, or something less expensive online. That's when I found Etsy seller Sweetplume:) I now have a fun, ballerina inspired dress to put on my neice, at a little over a fourth of what we were going to spend. Meet Tay Tay's dress:



The dress is pictured in "Blush". The seller is making ours in white, with an Aqua Blue sash & flower.



I really like that it is being made especially for Tayler by hand. Plus, she will have lots of fun in her little tutu! It makes me happy just seeing it! Another perk is that the seller takes less than a week to get the dress out after payment:) I will post pics of the final dress after I get it paid for, lol!

Happy Humpday!!!

I have a few updates for you guys & I even behaved myself & took some pics (after the fact). My camera is officially broken, but I stole my sister's camera, dug out the completed projects (some are semi-completed) & snapped away, all out of love for my blog family, lol. Plus, I've been quite the slacker so I had to get things on & poppin'.

So anyway, on the 14th, I had a few friends come over to work on favor & out of town boxes. I had a salad bar set up for lunch, & my sister surprised your's truly with a beautiful birthday cake (my b-day was on the 15th), & Haagen Daaz ice cream bars. Yummmm.

Here's what we did:

We assembled about 65 white gable boxes, & attached these beautiful layered monogram tags to each box. Jessica at Jessica'sDesign Shop is an amazing person to work with, & she is responsible for the tags, & water bottles (coming up). Each tag has a shimmery, sheer, silver ribbon attached. Try saying that 3 times, lol.


I love the monogram tag...


And aqua & white damask tissue paper. I got this at If It's Paper, before they closed down....


Jessica also designed water bottle labels for us (check previous posts for closeup details)....



We stuffed little clear bags with Starlight Mints. Each damask tag says "Mint to be". I just had to use the phrase, lol.. I used leftover ribbon from other projects to wrap each pack.. These will also go inside the welcome boxes. Labels are from Littlebeane Boutique on Etsy. She even included the clear pouches, & was super great & fast in sending my order out!



I also ordered these nifty little map, brochure thingys from the State. They are free & come in quantities of 25, but you can get more.

Sure, they say 2008, but hey...they're freebies!

The welcome boxes are only halfway done. I still need to add teabags, welcome brochures (I already designed them, but have to order thru Vistaprint, chips/pretzels, & mini chocolates. I will be sure to post the final project!

My next post will be the favors...I am sleepy now, but need to get ready to go to work! Have a wonderful day!!

Smell Goods

Several posts ago, I had mentioned to you guys that I am going to have a display setup with a few different favors to give guests options. The choices are tiffany blue candle sticks, soap, and boxes of some goodie. The setup was inspired by Martha Stewart. Scroll on down to reminisce!

Well, here is the progress of our soap favor so far...just thought I'd share:



They are ivory bars of almond and vanilla scented soaps, with chunks of tiffany blue goodness swirled throughout.



All wrapped up in white, with blue ribbon, and our initials. Very simple,but I think they are really pretty, & I just can't wait to see them all displayed on the tables....like so:

Ready, Set......VOTE!

Okay Blog Family,

The time has come to reach out our hands & show a little love. You may already be aware of the contest that the ever-so-lovely bride to be, Ebonee, is sharing with us. Her fiance, Marvin, was selected out of a whopping 1300 entries as a TOP 16 semi-finalist for Brides dot com 'Groom of The Year' promotion. The contest actually ends on the 8th of this month, so bloggers PLEEZE take just a moment out of your cyber browsing, & visit the site. There is not much time left. It really is as easy as a click of the mouse! And you may be thinking that you don't know this girl, but just think if it were your own groom, groom to be, brother, dad, cousin, bff, etc.!



So, what's in it for the happy couple? I'm so glad you asked! Lookie here (brace yourself...it's quite fabulous stuff):

The “Groom of the Year” will receive the following Grand Prize: his/hers platinum wedding bands from Tacori, a tuxedo rental for himself and up to 5 groomsmen from Men’s Wearhouse, a $2500 honeymoon voucher for the Montelucia Resort and Spa in Paradise Valley, AZ from InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, a Hammary Furniture entertainment console from Macy’s Wedding & Gift Registry, and a 40” high-definition television set from Brides.com. The total prize package is valued at $10,249.00 USD. There will also be three runner-up prizes awarded, based on vote counts: 1st runner up will receive a $500.00 Macy’s gift card, and the 2nd and 3rd runners-up will each receive $250.00 Macy’s gift cards.

So why is Marvin vote worthy? Well, don't ask me, lol! See what Ebonee had to say:

"Besides the fact that I think he's the greatest thing since sliced bread, Marvin is a generally great guy. He has a kind spirit and heart and is a hard-working man. He is a wonderful fiance, son, brother and friend. Not only has he loved me beyond my faults and flaws, he has shown me what real love is all about. I think Marvin deserves this title because he is everything I ever dreamed of finding in a spouse, at the exact time I wasn't expecting to find him! While the title and prize would be nice, the experience of pulling our family and friends together for a common cause (supporting Marvin!) is also thrilling to us"!!

I personally thank each of you for reading thus far. I truly hope you feel motivated enough to help a fellow bride. If you feel up to paying it forward, please go to this link & cast your vote:

www.brides.com/groomoftheyear

If you feel an extra dose of generousity, I do encourage you to simply spread the word. Email others & ask for their vote as well.

Thank you SOOOOOO much!!!

P.S. Here is the Fabulous Ebonee's site: http://becominghismrs.blogspot.com/ She's quite the Fabu-lishious Bride. :)

The Nitty Gritty

Thanks to all of you fabulous bloggers who voted on which invite I should use for our Rehearsal Dinner, and Shower. The votes have been tallied, & I am now in between these two:







I have to leave a little element of surprise, hahahaaha! I will upload the final choice to Vistaprint, & send to the appropriate recipients in May. I will keep you guys posted!

Cheers!

Crystal Damask Toasting Flutes....


I picked these babies up at Pier One over a month ago, but it took forever to post because of busy times, & my camera being all messed up right now. So...I borrowed my sister's. Okay, so back to the flutes :)




So, like I mentioned, I had gone into Pier One, & saw a few of these flutes on a Clearance shelf. It was right after Christmas, so they had alot of price reduced items. Well, these were marked $9.99, so I thought maybe someone had misplaced them. I went on & took them to the counter & asked the Sales Clerk to scan them anyway. She did, & it rang up $1.29! That was all I needed to go scour the store for more! I bought all they had, which was 8. That is just enough for our head table. I like them because although they are damask, they are so soft & subtle. The design isn't as striking as the traditional damask prints.



Thanks Pier One :)

Experimenting...

So, I gave a shot to the CD wrap today. I used some leftover Aqua Blue cardstock, damask wrapping paper, some labels that I had made awhile back from Littlebeane Boutique on Etsy.



I even added Crystal Brads that I had left from a Hobby Lobby venture a few months back, although my camera tells a different story on this blurry picture:




Only thing is that I need a real paper cutter to complete this project. My edging is pretty raggedy & bootlegish. And, more cardstock, and brads, but I could definitely do all of this for less than $25 for 60 favors, especially since I already have some of the supply here.


This favor would be given out at my cake & punch reception that we're having at the church. I might do this and a small wrapped box with a treat inside. What do you think so far about the wrap? Changes? Additions? Ugly?

It Don't Mean A Thing If It Aint Got That Bling......

Here are the earrings I'll be wearing.


Actually, mine are silver based, & the teardrop shaped Austrian Crystal is about 1 1/2" long. Can we say bling bling?! They are simple, but will make a beautiful, sparkly statement.

I hate to be a broken record here, but our colors our Aqua Blue, Steel Gray & Irridescent White, which is why our jewelry & even touches to the men's bouts will be more of a rainbowesque, irridescent hue. You may remember an older post of the necklace that I will be wearing. Well, that necklace was a couple hundred dollars, which really seemed to be well worth the splurge & investment, but I forgot that I have a strikingly similar necklace handed to me from my great grandmother. The only difference is it is single strand, without the pendant. Easy fix! I will add a crystal pendant, which will still leave me at a fraction of the cost, but with a workd of sentimental value, PLUS my "something old".

A Yummy DIY Favor!

I found these CD sleeves over at my fave place Etsy. They seem to be pretty simple to make. Looks like you need some scrapbook paper, cardstock, brads & a little elbow grease. Take a look:




What I love most is that these aren't badly priced. The seller (Megasmiles)offers these for .50c to .90c.

One More

Okay, here's one more card (a continuation of below post) only this time with black details added. Kiana, you were right! :)

Thank You Cards

Here is an example of what our thank you cards will look like for our Wedding Attendants. I'm really geeked about this. We will hand them out along with a gift at our rehearsal dinner. Jamie Konet with Etsy just sent me this mockup. I am not sure whether they should be mounted on gray or black cardstock. What do you think?

Wedding Updates :)

So, I have actually been trying to get to my 'dehydrated' wedding to do list, but I think that life is just popping of more than usual! I feel set up!

I posted the pretty little champagne flutes to represent the dual reception celebration that I have committed to planning. This could be a stressful task, but I'm just not going there, lol. I came to this conclusion about a month ago after peeping out our booked 'petite' reception site. We can fit 100 guests in, but comfortably it should only be between 60-80. I am voting for about 70, including the wedding party. I can work space so many ways, but I don't want anyone uncomfortable.

We will simply have a private reception for our wedding party, some family, & very close friends. Most of them have spouses, dates or kids, so that automatically increases our count. A reception insert will be included for those invited to the private reception, & a brief mentioning about a Cake & Punch Reception will be mentioned for all others....or nothing at all. Either way, our Pastors will mention the Cake & Punch, and time for speaking with Bride & Groom after Ceremony so that our guests are sweetly reminded.

I really wanted to do this so that we could show our gratitude for those coming to see us. It really means the world to me that people fit us into their busy schedules!

To cut costs, I am "borrowing'" serpentine tables from culinary school to create a rounded effect in our Fellowship Hall. I will have guys break down rectangular tables that are currently setup. This will be enough for pre-sliced cake & sparkling white grape juice to be displayed. I am buying bottles of sparkling juice now to put to the side every other week. There is an awesome local baker that I am going with for this & she is only charging $30 for a sheet cake to feed 75. Jackpot!We will also have chilled personalized bottled water. Just enough for a hot day. We will provide favors for the guests, & basically hug, kiss, and thank everyone for 30-45 mins tops, then off to our other reception for the food!

Moving on....

I made a Welcome Brochure for my Out of Town Welcome Boxes. I am excited to share the complete package with you guys. Also, I got my wedding shoes (from Off Broadway). I'm pleased because I got a pair of $90 shoes for $35. Although, I spent $30 on shoe clips from Etsy, so I still spent a little, but remained under budget, which is always a plus. I will take pics of the shoe clips when they come in & do a post of the shoes altogether.

My bolero will be here soon, so I will also post pics of that, oh & I got my earrings, & toasting flutes (from Pier One) that have a damask print. I HAVE to do a post on those soon, because they were originally $9.99 each (the flutes), but they were from the Christmas collection & marked down. I paid $1.25 each. I bought all they had, which was 8, so they will be for our head table.

Okay, that's all for now. I will be back with pics soon!

Take care everybody!!

Vintage Lace Fan Escort Cards

::Sigh:: How Fabulous are these Escort Cards?!

I would love to make these for our reception, or even for my Bridal Shower. This particular image is from Ceci of New York, but the Vintage Glam Blogspot gives templates & basic instructions on how to make your own. Basically, all you need is cardstock, lace, a glue gun & handy penmanship(or a printer).

Hair We Go...

I'm all things hair & makeup for the month of March. I have some photos collected for "the look", but won't know for sure until my (next) trial run. I want something in wavy, loose curls for my hair. Something down, but side swept & romantic, yet different. These styles are a glimpse of what I am aiming for:




(Madonna, not her daughter)






So, basically, I want it pinned up on one side, like this:



And, I want my curls to be rich, & full, like this:


We'll see how it all pans out on the Big Day, but I am really looking forward to it. I actually had my hair stylist try it out about a month ago, & she did a great job with a flat iron of all things, but of course I got no pics. I will try to do better next time. :)

5 Things I Love About You

Far in the land of WWW, I met a great gal named Nat Nat (at least that's what I call her) on a Bride's Wedding Planning forum, & we quickly became online friends. Here's her planning page: http://nicknat.wordpress.com/



She is lovely, & very special to alot of us in the blog community, as she offers crisp wedding details in the most fashionable ways, & makes you wanna steal her colors. Plus, she is uber kind, funny & just look at this face...



And one of the most amazing things about Nat Nat is that she is getting married in
4 DAYS!!! Yes, she will wed this handsome fella, the love of her life:


Like Nats, her Groom too has great style & isn't afraid of a little pink, heehee.

So Cheers to one of my fave couples, & Nats...here's to you. Five things I just love about you:

1.) You have fabulous skin & eyebrows. Yes, I too love the Cetaphil:)
2.) You are crazy sweet, funny & thoughful.
3.) I love the special relationship you have with your car & with nkotb, lol.
4.) I love the attention to detail you have poured into your wedding. I know it will be gorgeous, & that you will make a wonderful wife (and mommy).
5.) You. Period. No stalker here, but seriously, you're a great friend.

CONGRATULATIONS on your upcoming nuptials, & we all can't wait to see the pics. xoxoxo

Unity

I have to admit that I haven't been all there when it comes to my wedding projects lately. My schedule is one thing, but my parents both have had health issues going on, & it's all been playing a toll on my mind. The next couple of weeks should be a little back to normal pace. Still busy, but better than last week. Thank God.

So....hopefully I should be able to get back on track in the wide world of wedding stuff over the next few weeks. I have alot to do, but for now I feel refreshed when I look at these candles for the ceremony. I am still trying to make up my mind which set to go with for our Unity Candles. All are from Etsy. I will probably make my own, but these at least serve as inspiration. Take a look:

A Pleasant Surprise

So, I haven't been online much these days because I have been so busy with work (I am wrestling with 3 jobs right now), plus I had 3 events to plan for & setup over the last 2 weeks, along with a Baby Shower Brunch this Saturday. I didn't realize the effect this all had on me, until this week. I had a blazing fever on Monday night when I got home, so I rested & drank lots of fluids. Long story short, I kept going until I had to just take off today. I slept til 1pm, & I decided to catch up on a few emails & of course, visit the good ol' blog, when low & behold, I find a message from M'Shonta to check out her blog (http://destinyawakes.blogspot.com/2009/02/blog-to-inspire.html).

This is the deliciousness that I rolled up on:



I mean, she actually thought of me, & made these for me. When I say that it felt like the wind was knocked out of me (in a good way), I mean it in every sense. Here is what M'Shonta had to say:

These can be used for Valentine's Day suprises or all through the year to write love notes to your new hubby. Some couples have written love notes to one another from Feb. 1-14 and then opened them on Valentines Day!! However you choose to you them, I am sure that it will keep love and excitement in the air. Just slip in a note or something special inside and raise the flag to let him know that "he has mail."

Thanks for being an inspiration to so many beautiful women!

M'Shonta also shared the love by gifting these beautiful boxes to An Atlanta Bride:




So, I just want to encourage you other amazing bloggers to continue sharing your love & amazing ideas & personalities, because you just never know who is inspired by you. It isn't about the number of viewers or followers. All it takes is one person to be touched by you. M'Shonta, Thanks again so much. You made my day!

Her Necklace

So, my FI & I are gifting the wedding day jewelry to our Bridal Party. That includes our Maid of Honor & Matron of Honor. Their dresses are similar, but different. Our Maid of Honor is wearing a long dress which will be strapless & sleeveless. Our Matron is also wearing a long dress, that is strapless, but has a high neckline, which will not require a necklace.

A friend of mine is making bracelets for both of them. Since my Matron will not have a necklace, we will give her more elaborate chandelier earrings & a brooch embellished bracelet.

Our Maid of Honor is going to have this necklace that I found on RachellerD's shop at Etsy.



I found some clear, Acrylic earrings at Icing for $6 that match the necklace well. I love it, & hope that she will too.

I am going (or trying to) local for our Matron of Honor's earrings. As I mentioned, the bracelet is taken care of! Yay. I will post pics of the remaining jewelry soon.

Let's Stop & Smell The Roses (or Peonies)

Hi Blog Family!

I haven't done my usual daily posting because I have been travelling alot with my Medical Job, & am still teaching 4th & 5th graders at an Afterschool Program, so my days are very much filled. I have not even touched my wedding projects, so I am falling a little behind in the world of DIY, but I am determined to get alot accomplished in the great month of February, because I seriously want to be finished with all of my major to-do's by April. In between everything, I am about to complete my bouquet order.

For our bouquets, bouts & corsages, I am going with a touch of Vintage. I am working with Etsy on the bouquets, & here is the inspiration for my bouquet. When you look at the pics, just insert a tiffany blue wrap underneath the lace along the stem, for my touch of blue. I am doing the bouts, corsages & bridal party buquets with a friend. Peonies, roses, orchids & gardenias are the flowers of choice, all in shades of white & ivory. We plan to do these mid March.

For Me?

Once Upon A Time, There was a gorgeous girl. She may not have realized all who admired her, but certainly she knew she was special. This girl would cyber-befriend another bride-to-be, & in the midst of their ramblings & life in general, they found time to recognize the intriguing stuff they each compelled. This girl is Sapphyre (http://sapphyreswedding.blogspot.com/). She's young, vibrant, & way too stylish for her own good. I mean, we get to share the same State of North Carolina! What more could I say.... AND, she made my day today(after a crazy nightmare, lol) by gifting me this award:



So, with any tag or award, it comes with a few strings...
The Rules
1) Choose a minimum of 7 blogs that you find brilliant in content or design
2) Show the 7 winners names and links on your blog, and leave a comment informing them that they were prized with "Honest Scrap." Well, there's no prize, but they can keep the nifty icon :)
3) List at least 10 honest things about yourself

Ready, Set, GO!



10 Honest, but random things about Sony Bliss

1. When I was 3 year old, I used to "dress up" in my Wonder Woman Underoos, tuck a big white towel in the back of my undershirt (it was my "cape"), & then "fly" from the top of our staircase after my brother. He was The Incredible Hulk.
2. One day, I was "flying" off the stairs, & I landed on my face. Busted out my 2 front teeth. I had to wear big, shiny silver caps until my permanent teeth grew in. I got called Snaggletooth for the longest time, but who knew Bling would become high fashion....where's my $$$$?
3. My 1st car was a Honda Prelude. She was silver. Her name was "Platinum", lol.
4. I'm NOT a morning person. Never have been. I used to try to sleep in even in Kindergarten. I used to try to talk my parents into letting me take the day off, but it didn't work much. I finally figured out how to play hookie & fake my parental notes in Junior High. Yes, I did.
5. I've always had a big ol badunkadunk. It used to make me mad, but now I figure One man's trash...another man's treasure :)
6.I was Prom Queen in High School. I guess playing all that hookie didn't really matter, lol.
7. I think that my FH is so sexee when he's grubby. I like when he dosen't really shave, or just has on sweats is washing our cars. I don't get to see this side often, as he is a hygeine freak.
8. If I could spend a little bowchickawow-wow time with anyone other than my Fiance, it would be: Common & Mark Wahlberg, while Robin Thicke sings in the backround....next to Maxwell, and Boris Kodjoe can be there too to feed me grapes, while Hugh Jackman fans me with feathers, and Morris Chestnut runs the bath water..
9. I love just about any meal with rice & gravy or sauce. I love Chicken & gravy with rice. And, I am a Chinese Food fanatic. I could eat it everyday. I also adore Chicken & Dumplings, Banana Pudding (homemade), Strawberry Cake, German Chocolate Cake, Twizzlers & Fresh Smoothies. Hey, I'm not gonna hold back.
10. I love being a size 10,12 & 14. I am always within that range. I have been since I was 16. I'm not a dieter, & am content with having curves. I pay attention to being healthy, but will never compromise a plate of food for my jean size. That's just me.

And so I tag.....

Ebonee at http://becominghismrs.blogspot.com/
Vee at http://starliciousvee.blogspot.com/
Nicole at http://yourchampagnewishesevents.blogspot.com/
Nicole at http://divastyleweddingsandevents.blogspot.com/
Tiffany at http://eleganteventsbytiffany.blogspot.com/
Amy Jean at http://www.relentlessbride.com/
http://fetefanatic.blogspot.com/

It's a Piece of Cake!

Here is my next project. The cupcake stand. I am going to use some of that wrapping paper that I have. We're having 1 single cake to cut, like picured, except ours will be white with a tiffany blue band/ribbon, since we have our bling-a-riffic cake topper. I didn't want the color to be too much, so I decided to break it up. The cupcakes however will be in a tiffany blue, along with Filigree wrappers.

I will have pics of the stand (wish me luck) AND favors soon!

Cupcake Stand Directions Here: http://www.cakejournal.com/archives/how-to-make-a-cake-stand-for-cupcakes-or-mini-cakes

Nightmare!

So, this morning I had a big bowl of wedding nightmare for breakfast!


I am approximately 5 months away from our wedding day. In the midst of my planning, I have held my fair share of concerns & reservations, but fortunately I am not much of a worry girl. But maybe I have been blindly supressing some anxieties? I don't know, but here's what was dancing in my dreams last night:

Setting

Some huge church that I've never ever seen in my life. The church looked like an older Baptist Church, & it had a basement. On the main level, where the Sanctuary is, there was powder blue carpet. Everywhere. I was downstairs, in the basement. For some reason, I was running late getting dressed. I couldn't find my trusty Spanx, nor could I find my much needed bustier. I was still calm at this point, despite the filled church (waiting on me).

As I proceeded to get dressed, I noticed that my sister, who is our Maid of Honor, had on a black A-line dress. It was not the dress we picked out! It was a beautiful dress noless, but not the Mermaid colored dress! I was peeved now & wondering what happened. On top of that, her hair was not really combed just sorta "fluffed". What the heezy? So, I asked her where the other dress was at, & she told me that she had to return the other dress for money! So, she wore a dress that she already had & "didn't think I'd mind". At this point, I just didn't care. I figured, I'm getting married anyway & who is really going to know that she was supposed to wear "Mermaid"...

So, I'm dressed at this point. Spankless. I get ready to put my fascinator in my hair, & whoa...naps. I don't mean go to sleep "naps". I mean crunched up, brillo texture, curly-q NAPS on my head! It was not cute. I combed & sprayed & smoothed & brushed, & my hair turned into something like this:



Now don't get me wrong, I actually really like this hairstyle. It's just not what I'm envisioning on my wedding day. -SO moving on- I pin that fascinator in the side of my hair, & put the veil on & I hear the music in the Sanctuary & I'm wondering where my friend/Wedding Director is at. Why hasn't she come to check on us? Why hasn't she let me know how long I have (or don't have)?

I push Shannon (my sister in the wrong dress) towards the Sanctuary because she should have already been down the aisle. I come to the entrance after her. No one stood up! I looked further down the aisle, & my Smoochiface was sitting down! What?! I look around the room, & I don't have a Flower Girl or my 2 Ring Bearers! I figure, okay...I can still handle this. I'm marrying my best friend & we'll laugh about this later. I walk down the aisle (who knows where dad was at). I get to Smoochieface & he's still sitting, lol! He had on a pinstriped gangster-like suit. Huh? He then put on these huge bifocals & pulled out a posterboard with vows that he had written. After I got past what I had just seen, I feel in love with his sincerity all over again. He read some blah blah to me (I can't make out or remember what was said). He stood up,& he was like 3ft shorter than me now! My fiance is not 3ft shorter than me in real life, lol. We're standing there at the altar, I feel his sisters snickering at me. I feel this sudden heat panic around my neck & face. I looked down & I had on thick, white tights! Two of my toes were poking out of my peep toe shoes, thru the tights. I shifted my bouquet to the right (no one had taken it from me) & there was a rip in my dress...the flab on my belly was showing!


(yes this is a man, & no..I don't have hair on my chest)

I STILL tried to see the light at the end of this ridiculous tunnel. Post-ceremony, we didn't go to a 2nd site (like I am planning). Surprise, surprise. We went down to the basement. It smelled like basketballs. Personally, I dont want my wedding to smell like any kind of balls, lol. The ceilings were super duper low. The tables had butcher paper tablecloths & powder blue flowers on top. What happened to my Damask! Where are my chandeliers!!!

This is how my dream ended ladies. I woke up in a sweat & near tears! But it made me wonder...what if something like this really happened? I mean, we faithfully plan, blog, save pics, taste test, smell flowers, order goodies, run 5 miles, begin skin care regimens, whiten teeth, collect colors, all for becoming one. Is it really that serious? I am asking myself this question, because it's like God had me go back to reality (again) & put things in perspective of what the meaning of this union is about. What about after the wedding? I am so grateful for my Smoochieface, & I am also grateful that God didn't tell me to return any of my wedding purchases thus far, lol...

Keep on planning ladies, & have fun! I guess my one bit of advice is to have your t's crossed i's dotted. Fill in your 'Go-To' people so that the burden is not there on your day. I am a firm believer that "stuff will happen", but I pray to be in such a place that when/if it does, I am totally over it. But...I don't think I can get over my belly hanging out in front of everybody...

Anyone else having crazy dreams or thoughts?

You're Invited....

to help me pick out invites!

Okay ladies (and any gentleman lurkers), I am on the prowl for Rehearsal Dinner & Bridal Shower Invites for inspiration. My Bridal Party will probably be taking care of the invites for my Shower, but just in case they ask, I still want to have some ideas handy. Whatever I decide, I will be completing myself & uploading to trusty Vista Print like I did for our Meet & Greet (pics somewhere in my July post).

I really would appreciate your votes for what is posted, or even if you have come across another lovely design that you would like to share. Oh....& I was going to do jumbo lollipop invites (still might), but I'm thinking that since our wedding invites are fabulously detailed to a tee, I might scale back & simplify the rehearsal dinner. I'm all about el cheapo, yet fabulous for these! My mission is to go Chandelier-less AND Damask-less. Yep, it's true. I still love my motifs, BUT I don't want anything overdone, just enhanced. We will have touches of both motifs in moderate places for the Shower & Dinner. Also, your vote dosen't have to be for any particular party/occasion. The wording is a little different depending on the invite I upload, but you can base it off style when you comment. Thanks in advance!

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Bridal Shower?

So, my wedding progress for the week is that we finally made a decision on the Bridal Party dresses. We selected a dress (2 different styles) from David's Bridal, & I must say that the dress we chose was totally different in person. The website did not do it any justice! Also, for you brides who are using the Tiffany Blue hues in your wedding, you may already know that David Bridal offers the Pool color, which is supposed to be extremely close to Tiffany Blue. Actually, I am not a Tiffany-themed Bride, I just love the color. Most of my wedding findings are in a range between Aqua, Mint or Tiffany Blue (I promise I'm making a point, lol). It sounds strange, but I found the color all wrapped up in one in David's Bridal Mermaid color! It's gorgeous. If you look it up online, it looks more Jade or Teal Green, but in person, it's the real deal for our wedding, so Mermaid is the color of the Bridal Party dresses!

Unfortunately, I am too lazy today to upload pics of my MOH trying her dress on, but I think I might just save the look until our wedding day, & then I'll post the complete package. I gotta leave some elements of surprise for you guys!

So back to my Header, "Bridal Shower":

In the early days of planning, long after my fiance & I had decided on our shade of blue, I was finding myself really attracted to a pop of red in the scheme. This is odd for me, because I don't tend to care for red that much. I don't dislike it, I just don't really buy much of it & hardley ever wear it. But it was something about the contrast with the Tiffany Blue that is so amazing! Plus, you don't tend to see it in everybody's wedding, so I love that it is a unique palette.



After deciding on our current color scheme, I still gaze at the Tiffany Blue & Red in awe! Fortunately, my sister (who also happens to be our MOH) asked me what colors I want included in my Bridal Shower. You guessed it! Red & Tifany Blue! I like the fact that I still can have our wedding in the subtle, classy hues of Grey & Tiffany Blue, while having FUN with adding Red to it for the Shower (in May)! Here are more beautiful pics for inspiration!

Welcome Boxes Part I

Okay, so I am in the middle of a dry spell & really don't feel like completing my gazillion DIY projects that I am needing to work on. With that being said, I am simply pacing myself & doing one thing at a time. Rather than posting everything together, I am posting as I go. The first portion of this particular project is probably the most important (to me). It is a welcome booklet for our out of town guests. Now keep in mind that this is very simple, as I am a bride on a budget! I wanted to have a pro make them for me with nice little cardstock covers, but after getting quotes for my requested quantities, I figured I could better apply that money towards our wedding programs or food. I just used my handy printer, glossy paper & crystal brads to attach pages together. I typically am in love with all things stationery, but I could only allow a semi-splurge in that arena on my Save the Dates & Invites. You gotta have that one thing, ya know?!

So, this is the cover page. I just used a grey damask print, & inserted my monogram from the Fantabulous Jessica's Design Shop. Actually, I have tags in this monogram (will be featured in a later post), but when I applied the beautiful layered tags to these flat pages, it was not a great mix. I will use the tags for something else-

On the first page of the booklet, I included a warm welcome to Charlotte from my Fiance & I. We are both very grateful to have loved ones travel to ceebrate this joyous occasion with silly people like us. Also, my pages got flipped around, but the next page is actually my Table of Contents, & a History of our City.


This page features our Wedding Day Timeline. It's a helpful breakdown of the events beginning with our Rehearsal Dinner to the Reception Send-Off. Also included is information about the Ceremony, Reception & our Photo Sharing account. Also included in the booklet is a Couple's Questionnaire game thingamajig. I compiled a few questions about us & have the answers posted on the very last page of the booklet. Oh, & we also included featured restaraunts, hospitals, local malls, & 24 hour drug stores, because you just never know...


I know it's hard to see alot of the details of this booklet, but one of our wedding scriptures is featured on the back.

A Work In Progress-Bathroom Baskets

Well, really I decided on Bathroom Boxes. I posted ideas that I was pretty much sold out on with purchasing personalized trays & Kleenex, but in the end, I went the most economical way with this.


This pic is a small view of my stuffed box for the ladie's room. Rather than buying a personalized Kleenex Damask box that would be thrown away, I decided to pay 5 bucks for a handmade cover, from Etsy. I like this idea because I can use it in our bathroom after the wedding. I really don't need to look at our names & wedding date on the tissue box for years to come, so I'm okay without the personalization. By the way, please excuse the slightly obese look of my boxes! I actually wayyyyyy stuffed the box to hold the merchandise up for the picture, but on the day of the wedding, I'll take some of the filler out, since I will have more items to add.


This is just a plain view shot of our very plain restroom at the reception site (yep...I sure did take a pic of that bad boy, lol). The good thing is that it is plain & there is a vanity there to use for shelf/display space, so I am a happy camper! Oh, & if you look closely, there are electrical outlets, so that I can plug in my mini lamp! I am not risking candles in there where I can't see it at all times burning, & I really don't want to go out & buyt flameless when I can use something I already have.


The boxes that I used for the goodies are just photo boxes from Hobby Lobby. I bought them during a sale, so I got 2 for $3. This is the top of the box.


And here is the side view. Too bad they didn't have Tiffany Blue with Grey, but I'm used to using black with it.


Here's a blah pic of the mini lamp that I mentioned. It has a black, velvet brocade textured shade. It adds a nice softness.


And here is the frame I decided to use. It has a sortof vintage, chic feel to it. I also got this at Hobby Lobby. I bought 2 during their 50% off sale, & paid $10 all together. The sign is majorly modified to what I was going to say. I love the poems, but decided to keep it simple. I added the crystal rhinestone.

The only other thing that I'll be adding is:

Spray Deoderant
Tide Stain Stick
Safety Pins
Hair Spray
Maybe Bobby Pins
Sugar Free Gum
Mints
Mini Mouthwash

I have yet to begin the men's box, but it will be easy since I am including most of the same contents, minus the girly stuff. :)

Everything that I purchased for the box (the inside contents) are from The Dollar Tree baby!!

One Big Luvfest!

Whooo Hoooo! How Sweet to log on to my Blogspot, & be greeted by this:


Thank you Chris, @ Celebrations At Home for visiting my blog, & rewarding me with this humbling Blog Luv Award!

Who couldn't use a little bit of LUV?

So, now I get to tag 10 new blogs for you to check out.

Honorees please follow these instructions and share the LUV!

1. Put the logo on your blog or post. (You can highlight the photo and text of this post and copy/paste wherever you need to...start your highlight from the bottom up to get the photo)
2. Nominate at least 10 blogs which show GREAT ATTITUDE and/or GRATITUDE
3. Be sure to link to your nominees within your post.
4. Let them know that they have received this award by commenting on their blog.
5. Share the love and link to this post and to the person from whom you received the award.


Here are my 10 picks:

http://onmywaytofabulousand40.blogspot.com/
http://eventistas.blogspot.com/
http://abridesgoldenmoments.blogspot.com/
http://dottheiwedding.blogspot.com/
http://jujubeedesigns.blogspot.com/
http://nicknat.wordpress.com/
http://www.thepissedoffbride.com/
http://www.delovelydesigns.blogspot.com/
http://everydaycookin.blogspot.com/
http://sweetcakesbymelissa.blogspot.com/
http://authentically-u.blogspot.com/

Ummm, don't disqualify me please. I have 11 Luvs posted :)

Thank You for Your Dream

Whether you are a supporter of President Elect Obama or not, there's a liberty in the atmosphere that we all have priviledge of knowing one another, regardless of race, gender, religion, creed, & so many other factors that used to provoke so much hate, but now invite love on more occasions than in the past. Of course, we all know that prejudice acts still exist, but we have really come such a long way.

This post really isn't about our new President, but just a small token of thanks to Dr.Martin Luther King, Jr., for paving the way for this day to be a reality. And on top of it, I am blessed to have friends, family, co-workers & Bloggies who don't all look like me. How boring it must be to limit your love & accept people who only look like you!

Thank you for your dream, Dr. King, & Happy Day in YOUR honor~

Tables

In planning for my wedding, I am learning so many things, mainly visual, but still don't really know alot of proper terms for things in the wedding world. This is one of them. I call it "The High Table"...


I freakin' love these tables! Since you guys know that our reception space is on the "petite" side, I am going to order in some High Tables for the balcony area. I think it's a great way to break up the congestion & allow our guests to be casual & mingle. Plus, since I am in the process of changing our buffet menu to a now heavy hors d'oeurves menu, this is easy to work with. I am still having regular eating tables too. Come on now....I refuse to let our table numbers go to waste! So, here's a couple more fabulous High Table shots for inspiration. I'm thinking simple decor for these. Maybe a few candles, a vase with a single flower, or I might do different variations of frames with the Guests of Honor on each of these tables.



Okay, & so this is just totally random. I have had this fabulous out of town box in my faves for awhile now, & unfortunately cannot remember which amazing blogger I stole it from! I want to give proper credit, so please do tell if you recognize.

I am posting this because I just love it, and I will try to post my gable box within the next 2 days, since I'm off from my teaching job on Monday. Also, I was just too lazy to make a new post about it, lol..

Great Graphics....for Free!

I love freebies that you can actually use, lol! At www.dryicons.com you can find a great variety of retro, modern, & many other fun graphics & icons to use. I am thinking about using some of the graphics for Valentine's cards, & for my Bridal Shower. Have a peek at a few of my favorites...

Wrap it Up

Y'all know that I have a slight love affair with candles, & we will have more candles than floral decor at the wedding. Although I don't quite have all of my decor logistics down for the reception, I do know that votives will be in the mix. Lots & lots of them. I do base things off of simplicity, but I am really wanting to include these in the decor:



DamaskDiva with Etsy, sells these delicious chandelier wraps. You can get 12 for $5.50. Really, you can make these with the right images, a printer & vellum, but if you're not a DIY'er, you can get 12 votive candles so nicely dressed thru the Diva's store. I'm thinking of incorporating these on the guest or cake table only. Our head table will have varying height pillars & votives, which probably will not be wrapped.

Please Save the Date :)

For our June Wedding!

I don't know why my camera was blurring & fading things, but here's what I could get to share (for now). I only took a few pics, & currently have 25% of the save-the-dates in the mail. When I work on the next batch tomorrow, I will probably take more pics, but this is just so that you get a general idea.


Each envelope is lined with a shimmery, heavy chandelier paper, & each card is embellished with 2 small crystal details.



We sent out business size magnet chandelier cards, along with a layered, tiffany blue & deep grey announcement, which both include our wedding date & website. The magnet includes our names with our parents names. You know how some people are like, "oh...isn't that so-&-so's daughter?"...well, we wanted to make it clear, lol.



This particular couple is not us, but I am so pleased to say that the Designer mimicked this image after ours! Yay :) This is exactly what ours looks like, along with our parent's names. The magnet is attached to a charcoal grey cardstock.



Oh, look how Smoochieface even stepped in to help stuff envelopes, lol. He took me to get my favorite....Chinese Food, & I repaid the gesture with a warm cup of Save the Dates. :) Notice how he made it clear that he was out of his comfort zone, by remaining in the hat & jacket. And toothpick, hahaa. It wasn't that cold inside mom & dad's house, lol.


We also cut & attached (the old fashioned Microsoft Publisher way) wrap around labels. Hence the blurred mess. Don't bother rubbing your eyes. It won't help much...

Chair Signage

Just in case our guests forget who we are, I made these chair signs, lol. They will be hung from our chairs at the wedding reception. My picture quality is poor, as it is a little difficult to see the bling that I added, & the irridescent white ribbon detail to hang the signs.





I still have to take the signs to work to trim the top & bottom a little bit, so that everything is aligned. I used Damask printer paper from The Dollar Tree to print the sign, & just layered it on Tiffany Blue Cardstock that I had leftover from a previous project. The feather detail I bought on a clip from Hobby Lobby during their Christmas clearout sale. I paid .25c for a $3 clip, so total, .50c! The entire project cost maybe $3, as I got the ribbon 50% off.

All Things Fluff

Although I can't afford shoes right now, I am sifting images in my mind of exactly what I am looking for on our wedding day. At first I was in all the rage of having a Tiffany Blue shoe, but now...ennnnhhh.

I am steering towards something almost metallic, in a deep pewter or silver. Sorry for digging our colors into the ground, but for new readers, our colors are Tiffany Blue/Aqua Blue, Steel Gray & Irridescent White. I didn't purposely intertwine black into the scheme, it just sorta creeps in from time to time.

So back to what I was saying...I am all things feathery & fluffy right about now. I know that feathers will be somewhere in my bouquet, but it will be minimal, because I will already be rocking a small one in my hair, & I don't want to be known as Bridal Big Bird. With my sudden passion with the furry numbers, I am seriously considering a small, chic detail of feathers on my shoes. I even fell in love with some Victoria's Secret's Slippers (pictured below). Yes, I would actually rock those. I'm thinking that with my dress, no one would really know....would they?



Another route would be to get some inexpensive shoes & just add the embellishment myself for a few bucks. I'm absolutely loving the glam factor of adding a small, vintage rhinestone brooch, or even an earring to the center of the feathers! If this is your pic, please advise so that I can give you credit! I can't keep up with all the beautiful pics of inspiration I grab on a regular...

So, after we finish paying for a few other mandatory wedding related items, I will officially begin my shoe quest & post pics..

Spread a Little Love

Can I just say that if I had a Yummylicious Blogger Award, it would go to this special person (just hang on a second...I'm getting there)... I mean, this person hasn't been on the Blog scene all that long, yet she finds time to leave encouraging comments on so many blogs, & I'm not talking once in a blue moon, I'm talking about on a regular basis.

She's the kinda Blogger that is like a Cyber Cheerleader, with madddd great ideas for weddings, & seems to just bring a happy face around when she comes to my Blog. Maybe you feel the same. Maybe you have a clue of who I'm talking about. Maybe you know her......






Keep Scrolling














Hahahaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa















Okay, okay.....






It's Authentically U! She's Fab, & So sweet! Be sure to show her some love!
http://authentically-u.blogspot.com/

Merci Beaucoup

I was looking back at oldie, but goodie freebies at Vintage Glam Blog, & found an awfully useful template, in all things, Damask. It goes a little something like this:

Front of Postcard


Back of Postcard


I'm the type of person who can never have enough ways to say thank you, so I will upload this freebie to Vista Print, who always has free promos going on (just pay shipping), & put these in my card collection. I would love to use them in some way for the wedding...maybe for the Shower, or for the Wedding Attendants? I have a different design in mind (also for Vista Print) to use for our actual guests.

If you like this design, go here: http://vintageglamblog.com/2008/11/14/freebie-fridays-free-lucky-postcards/

Petal Cones

So yay! I happened to mosey on over to my cyber friend, Landra's Blogspot (EVENTistas), & what did I see?



I can't wait until our guests lunge these pretty little numbers at us! It's the only time I'll ever encourage stuff thrown into my path. Thanks Landra! P.S. She used the same signature monogram that was painted onto our aisle runner. Consistency baby!

Our Table Numbers

So, I decided to go frameless for our table numbers. I wanted crystal embellished frames for each display, but that added up fast! So, I decided to go a more simplified, yet glam approach that will still be functional. Meet our table numbers:


Each tent card is layered with tiffany blue metallic cardstock, deep grey cardstock, a chandelier motif, which is embellished with 3 crystals, & topped off with a silver/grey satin ribbon.





Big thanks to Giselle at GEDesigns (Etsy) for her help. Check out her blog here: http://www.gedesigns.blogspot.com/

To Do List!

I have been a little slack with uploading pics of completed projects. But, I do have a reason...I'm in the middle of about 10 projects, & this week is my mission to complete 5! It's time to get this list checked off!

So, coming to a Blog near you will include:

-Our Save-the-Dates
-Welcome Boxes (not including our booklets)
-Water Bottles
-Bathroom Trays
-Table Numbers

Gimme a few days & I'll post it!

I Appreciate You!

Just a couple of days ago, I mentioned my reception site setback. Well, I've learned over the years that God allows certain setbacks to be setups for us to grow even closer to Him & simply bask in His greatness. This reception situation is no exception to the rule. Within a day, my dad had contacted his (and my mom's) local Golf Club in their neighborhood. This neighborhood is more like a huge community with schools, stores, etc.. Anyway, they "happened" to have their Event Center available on our wedding date! He presented the option to me & my fiance, so we came by to pay it a visit. Lemme get the yucky cons out of the way:

It can only accomodate about 80-100 guests.
There is leather seating (brown couch, chair, end table, coffee table) that must remain in the room, which cancels space to use for tables/dance floor, etc..
The ceilings are very high, & there are fans that will conflict with the hanging lanterns. I am thinking of a draped fabric only (and keeping the fans off, lol).
The site is about 25 miles from the ceremony site.

And, here are the pros (my favorite):

The price is even less than the rec center. $185 less to be exact.
There are 2 balconies located off of the room, where I can have 5-8 high tables (rented) set up for guests to eat, or maybe to hold the chafing dishes with food, since it will be covered.
The couch & all that may be able to transform into a lounge if I'm creative. I might be able to get one of those lounge white tents with a hanging chandelier.
There are piped speakers for music.
The location is less than a mile from my parent's home.
We would be able to have the space from 11am to 11pm, which is 7 more hours than the Park Hall that we wanted before. This way, my crew can come in to decorate & set up, have ppl bring food in, & break everything down, all in the same day.
Kitchen is available so that food can be heated, perfected...
The space offers 10 rectangular tables & 2 square tables (with ugly chairs). We will rent chairs for the head table only.
Oh. & a dance floor will work. We can have one put in....a small one. My Fiance is really looking forward to having a first dance. Yummy :)

So, we have held this space & the deposit is small enough to where if we are able to find a larger space that is closer to the church, we wont have any issues. In the mean time, I could use your ideas & suggestions on how to properly flatter & make the most of a smaller, "petite" space, lol. We started with a guest list of 200, & due to cost, we reduced the list to about 125. We are still between 100 & 120. We realize that everyone will not be able to attend, but I know there will be at least 90 ppl. Would you suggest a heavy hors d'ourve reception, or a dessert only? We won't be serving alcohol, so that's not an option, other than our sparkling cider toast, which will be the closest thing to it. I need any and all ideas! Our current plan is to have a buffet style meal. Maybe stations to break up the small room (Im sorry I don't have exact footage or pics yet)? I'm open!

And lastly, thank you to ALL of you. I appreciate your kindness & encouraging words, AND prayers. God hears them.

Something Peacock Blue

I won't be changing into a 2nd dress for our reception, but how I would love to slip my mantilla veil off & exchange it for this beautiful vintage piece! I actually already have a white feather comb to wear, but I love this one too. I found this beauty over at Belle Nouvelle Designs, on Etsy. She has amazing pieces.

Plan B

So, a few postings ago, I shared my 'To Do' list with you. The #1 task for now was to get our chosen reception site paid for. Well, guess what? It's taken.

I checked, & checked again just to make sure, but surely my eyes (nor ears) did me wrong. My fiance & I are fairly simple people. We opted for a museum reception(yeah...ummm...not so simple, lol) first off, but agreed on a local Park (indoor Hall) to host our reception. Demographic wise it was great in distance between the church & hotel. I was pretty disappointed because this could have & should have been paid for a lonnnnng time ago, even with the date change. The park accepted no deposits, & although we would have gotten the location for a steal, but when I say I just didn't have the balance, I mean it. Being out of work can really paralyze wedding plans, just give it a try, lol. Mr. Bridal Bliss & I committed to pay everything wedding related in cash or prepaid funds. No credit or borrows. We just didn't want any debt at the altar. Now that I made the call today to pay in full, well...here we are.

So, without venting or getting any more teary eyed, I am on to plan B. Mission: Find extremely inexpensive site that is still near our church. If all else fails, we still have the church Fellowship Hall. Like the park, we wouldn't have to worry about hiring outside Catering, however, the space is much smaller.

I will keep you updated. I am officially racing the clock on this one.

The good news is that I may not be able to do much, but through Christ, All things are possible.

xoxoxo

Shake it Like a Polaroid Picture

I love, love, love the idea of having a photo booth at weddings, or other large celebrations. They add a fun 'get away' for guests to stay entertained, plus seem to bring a wedding day cohesive appeal for those who may not know each other. In between all that, they're just flat out entertaining, & it's always awesome to capture life's greatest moments in their most candid form.


After saying all that, I pretty much never considered looking into renting a booth, basically because I already knew it'd be out of budget, BUT now I read this sweet article:

"Renting a photo booth has been growing in popularity over the past few years. The updated version? Entire photo sets with fabric backdrops and props. Set up a photo area at the reception that's big enough for a group shot. Drape the background with fabric and add couches, chairs, and plenty of props (think easy-to-throw-on hats and scarves). You may be able to have your photographer or an assistant man the station, or ask a trusty friend to be on hand with a digital camera". Courtesy of The Knot

What a great idea! I could definitely set up some damask panels, or some other background for a mock photo area, & ask my friend who happens to take pics on the side, to do this for our guests. I had considered doing a photo guest book before, but now we're having a pre-made photo book for guests to sign, so we won't have to worry about everybody tired of posing, lol. I am going to simmer over this & maybe include it at the reception. The plus is that it's free because I woudn't have to pay for photo services, & I just might be able to use that handy damask wrapping paper that I blogged about some time ago for the panels. I would love to use textured wallpaper, but this is a budget affair, lol.

Our Aisle Runner

As if I didn't have a good enough reason to walk down the aisle, lol, I now have this:




Unfortunately, you can't see the crystals, but Landra of EVENTistas also put a few crystals on top of our monogram for me.

Other than this aisle runner, our ceremony will be very simply dressed, as we are there for our nuptials, not onlookers. I just wanted to add a few elements that represent us. I will have rose petals & candles on both sides of the runner, and then we will have hanging orchid strands over the altar. No candleabras (unless we get em' for free, lol).

As you now know, the aisle runner was custom made by Landra, with EVENTistas, & the monogram is from Delovely Designs.

Is Your New Last Name Going to Start With A "P"?

Well then I may have a sleek cake topper for you.



Early on in my planning, I found a site called Favor Studio dot com. I was sold out on purchasing our cake topper from them. I paid $22.95, plus $7.95 s/h. Since that time, I ended up having a topper custom made, only because I wanted all 3 of our initials included, if I ordered 2 more toppers from Favor Studio, it would have put me way over what I really wanted to spend on a topper.

So, if you are marrying & taking the last name of someone with "P" as their last name, & this is something you guys could use, then just leave a message here for me. I will work with whatever you can work with, pricewise. I do not expect full price from my fellow brides-to-be. I will also take care of the shipping to you.

Oh, & obviously, the topper has never been used. Here is some info on it:

Measures 3" tall with 2 1/2" spikes at the bottom. This is a custom item.

Topper is crafted of sterling silver plate and accented with genuine Swarovski crystals. Each letter has a scripted flair and is accented with sparkling stones.

For Our Chamber & Suite

Well, Jujubee @ Etsy has done it again. She has made me so very happy with her attention to detail. Each sign starts with a layer of tiffany blue metallic cover stock (or a personalized color) and is then layered with shimmer paper. The text is then hand embossed in black. Then each sign is hand stamped with a beautiful damask flourish and the stamps are embossed in black. The signs will be hung as we get ready in the Hotel Suites on our Wedding Day!

Here is my Bridal Chamber Sign:


Here is my sign, as well as Future Hubby's:


And here is future hubby's by itself:

Square Biz

Our Head Table will be rectangular, & the guest's tables will be round. I am still making the cylinder vases with pomander (adding feathers) for the guests, but I have a different vision in mind for the Head Table. It will include lots of candles, raised rose petals hopefully a few square vases, only I might make them out of boxes Damask textured wallpaper. There wont be much else Damask on our table, so I would like to tie in a few pieces here & there. Inspiration below:

Have I Mentioned..

That you should seriously stop by & pay a visit to BYSE, By Your Side Events Blogspot?! Eliana is the Head Blogger In Charge, & I admit that I have a slight addiction to her posts. It's just plain yummy, & her page is soooo fabulous!! Eliana has all kinds of beautiful ideas & inspiration. Check her out!

http://blog.byyoursideevents.com/

What's Left??

So, our Wedding Date is June 27, 2009. We are officially under 200 days...175 to be exact. And boy oh boy do I have lots to do! So in lieu of all that's been done & planned thus far, there is still plenty left to complete. Such as:

Pay for the reception hall
Buy my Shoes
Hire & Pay for DJ, or else make a slammin cd & get somebody to bootleg DJ (I am soooo serious at this point).
Pay for those freakin fabulous invites.
Day of Transporatation
Print Menus
Mail out the Save-the-Dates (and post pics)
Complete Cardbox
Order Linens
Finish Centerpieces
Pay for the Food
Gifts for alot of folks...
Figure out if I'm going to DIY or hire someone for makeup.
Finish our oot booklets & programs
Make my cupcake stand
Finish that dreaded photo stand
Oh, & the guys need to get fitted for their tuxes, & my girls need to finally order their dresses!
Geez, looks like we have a whole wedding left to do!
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Yep, I still have plenty to do, but I am DETERMINED to finish this all by mid April so that I can relax & pamper myself up until the wedding. We'll see how that goes....

I'm So Honored!!

I was recently tagged by The Pissed Off Bride for the Fabulous Blog Award! I am completely ecstatic to be thought of for such a chic & of course, Fabulous Blog Award! Thanks so much P.O. Bride -xoxoxo

Here are the rules: List 5 obsessions/addictions that you have, and tag back to the person who gave you the award. Post the rules. Tag 5 more people!

1) Wedding Blogs, ::clearing throat:: especially my own. I'm not tooting my own horn at all, I just love to come to my blog & post new finds, & see comments from my viewers. It's my happy place.

2) The King of Queens. I am saddened that the final episode aired some time ago, but I really love The Heffernans!

3) Chinese Food, & Thai Food. I think it's the rice, actually. I love the sauce with my rice & I love Rice Noodles. Ummmmm. I could eat most Chinese Food each & every day. I'm also a sushi lover, but I don't go all out raw. I love California rolls, & mostly anything with COOKED salmon or shrimp, cream cheese & cucumbers.

4) I'm gonna piggy back my girl, P.O. Bride here & give a vote for Etsy. I am addicted & check their site daily. Since I started working again recently, I probably have made at least one Etsy purchase or deposit every pay day, lol.

5)Jesus. What can I say? I just love Him, & yes...He means just that much to me.

I know that the rules say 5 things, but I'd be remissed not to mention my Fiance! I have to give a big bad shout out to him. That's my Smoochieface, & I wouldn't have most of you fabulous viewers in my world had it not been for him, haaa.



My five(+) picks for this awesome award are. . .

My girl, Natalie from Nick & Nat is already "taken", so kudos to you girl! Here are my other picks:

Heathyr @ www.a-damask-wedding.blogspot.com/
Silvia @ http://weshallwed.blogspot.com/
Suite B @ http://suiteballentine.blogspot.com/
Jessica @ http://jessicasdesignshop.blogspot.com/
Jonezy @ http://thebuckeyebride.blogspot.com/

There