Wide Eyed Bride

The Bachelorette Party...

2009-09-04T10:16:00.014-05:00

...was a BLAST! There are photos I just cannot post, but I was thankful to be around the best girls around, and can't thank them enough for the time we had.

It started out with us taking over the hotel on on our way to an exotic dance class...

then getting all jazzed up back at the hotel and on to the party bus...

on to an ahh-mazing dinner... (Please note my face as I respond to the ridiculous gifts and cake that were presented.)
back on the party bus...
for a night on the town...
including some of the BEST karaoke Houston's never seen!

Please note that the two main organizers of this adventure (my MOH and deuce) are NOT PICTURED. This makes me very sad. Alas, I did not have a camera, so if you have photos that include the MOH, please send them to me. I will update the blog entry to include them - the deserve much credit.

Shout out to Mek for letting me steal her pictures.
Blizzle, I tried to steal your photos, but Shutterfly is mean.

Making It Legal

2009-08-31T02:53:00.006-05:00

Please don't hate me, but it was just so hard to blog in this mess that we came back to after the honeymoon and mission trip. (We have gotten things (sort of) under control since then, Thank God!)

Since I left so long ago, I'm going to start from the beginning.

We were going to be half married on Friday, July 3rd. We called ahead to make sure that the courthouse was open. But alas...

THIS is how we left. No marriage license in hand. Fast forward to Monday - and we became half legal! Really the city should change its voice mail message for the holiday weekends.

Apologies from the MRS!

2009-08-13T02:53:00.002-05:00

I apologize.

I stopped posting 9 days before the wedding.

Don't be angry.

In short, it was amazing.

I'll do a few recap posts, but I think after that it's time to focus on married life and ahem, medical school - unless I find some other reason to keep up this blog.

I'll post about the wedding license, random preparations, the bachelorette party, rehearsal lunch, the big day (in all it's glorious details), our honeymoon and our first adventure as a married couple.

It's coming. I promise.
As soon as I open some of these ridiculous boxes.

Would it be wrong to add this to our registry?

2009-07-09T09:19:00.001-05:00

Are you nervous?

2009-07-08T09:59:00.003-05:00

Everyone keeps asking us if we are nervous. Part of me feels like I should be. But to be honest, I'm more nervous about the wedding than the marriage. That may sound naive, but it's real.

About getting married?
There could be a hurricane.
500 people could show up out of nowhere.
The food could give everyone ebola.
These are all things that cross my mind occaisionally.

But about being married?
I know there are some things about being married that will be both unexpected and challenging. We will live together. We do "what married people do" that we don't do now, lol. I'm nervous about these things. But the commitment part? I'm not nervous about that. Being engaged (especially for a year) is like being married in your head. Really, I feel like we've been married since May 25th, 2008, but we're just waiting for all our friends and family to get the memo.

(To be honest, I think if your commitment starts when you say your vows, then trouble is ahead. Well really, trouble is ahead no matter what you do, because that's life. )

We know this is going to be hard. Really hard. But for the most part, we've always had a "we'll figure it out" attitude. And we try our darnedest to treat each other with love and respect until we figure"it" out.

So there's the answer to your question. Probably doesn't sound very romantic, huh?

photo from http://coryparris.com/

Winding Down (Or Up!)

2009-07-02T08:50:00.006-05:00

"Time is filled with swift transitions...." and this one is coming fast!

Amongst all the wedding craziness, Mr. Man and I took some time last night to take a look at our new place. We had lots of distractions, but we tried to take a a brief moment to savor what is about to happen. We are about to start a new life together. Forgetting favors, linens, and timelines, its an awesome and sometimes overwhelming realization that we are about to take on a super big challenge - sealing our commitment to love one another for the rest of our lives. I call it a challenge because there will be times when it won't be fun, easy, or romantic. With that in mind, the three of us are down for the cause. I couldn't imagine it any other way.

The excitement about coming home to my man (yes, as a medical student, I will probably be coming home to him more than him coming home to me, hehe) has of course helped me to rediscover Polyvore.

Although it may be a while before we have the time or funds to decorate, I have created inspiration boards for our bedroom....

and our living room.

What do you think?
Too girly? Too random?

Keeping Sane

2009-06-30T09:41:00.004-05:00

I'm not really sure why weddings cause so much trouble for couples. You'd think that planning the event that unites you together would be something that would spark up romance every time it came up.

But it doesn't work that way.

Most ladies want everything to go smoothly and be beautiful. Most men wouldn't care if they got married at a truck stop. And this my friends, causes tension.

Mr. Man and I have been blessed in that we have made it a habit to keep any disagreements about the actual disagreement. When we aren't on the same page, we start looking back a the book together instead of attacking each other. I'm praying that this habit lasts forever. Or at least that if it goes away we have enough of Him in us to forgive.

When we just can't agree, I know I tend to ask two questions 1) how important is this in the grand scheme of things? and 2) what is the real purpose or goal that we are trying to accomplish?

That tends to keep things in perspective.

One tip I'd give to brides-to-be is to limit your wedding planning to some sort of space as much as possible (e.g. the living room, via telephone, etc). Mr. Man and I get our best work done when we split up the tasks via email or text and then just update each other when they are done.

Then, when we are together, we can take on the world, instead of each other.

I'm super thankful to have a loving, patient and kind soon-to-be husband. I hope he knows how much I love him.

What other tips keep you and your boo from taking out stress on each other?

My Bridal Portraits

2009-06-26T16:32:00.005-05:00

I apologize in advance if you think I am going to let you see what my dress looks like three weeks before the wedding. :)

It was a total blessing to stumble upon our photographer, Billie Roche . She's relatively new to the business, but she's talented. It took some serious talent to make an overworked medical student and a tired computer programmer look like this in engagement photos!

We had blast taking bridal portraits, and they were everything I ever wanted - edgy, fun, sophisticated, even silly.

But they weren't "portraity". (If that is a real concept/word.)

I recently learned that displaying a bridal portrait at the wedding reception is actually only traditionally done in a few southern states like Florida, Texas and Georgia. A sorority sister from Detroit was like "why did you take pre-pictures two months before your wedding?". Apparently they are a regional thing.

But now that I've got my edgy, fun, sophisticated (regional) pictures, what in the world do I display at the reception?

I could crop one of the more scenic ones to make it "portraity"...

...or do something silly/sexy/edgy....

What would you do? "Portraity"? Silly? Sexy? Edgy?

The Honeymoon Wishlist

2009-06-24T16:27:00.014-05:00

Question: What is a perfect distraction from wedding tasks?

Answer: honeymoon screen shopping (like window shopping only from your laptop)

The Le Sac Dress at American Apparel
which can be worn in way more ways than I'm shown below...

A white bikini from Victoria's Secret
because what other time is more appropriate for a white bikini?

A straw hat from Target
because it's hard to see your honey when it's sunny...

A lightweight cardigan from Forever 21
in case it gets chilly at night...

This dress from Forever 21
for shopping when we want a break from the beach...

One more maxi dress
for good measure...

...and finally some leopard rhumba shorts.
Because if you can't wear these on your honeymoon, where can you wear them?

What else should I pack?

Stress? What stress?

2009-06-23T08:40:00.005-05:00

It's not that I'm super busy 25 days before the wedding. It's more so that I feel like I should be doing things and I'm not sure what they are or in what order to begin them.

The major stress is coming from the guests. Besides all the family issues that rear their ugly heads at weddings, many of my beautiful Black friends and family members have what I call a SARS-VP or Severe Allery to RSVP's. Literally, some people have said to me "oh, you wanted me to RSVP?". In my head I'm thinking, "no, I just made personalized RSVP cards to waste paper". Ok. Enough of my rant. But really, it's as if Mr. Man and I prepared an expensive dinner for you and you were like "oh, I'm too busy to take the time to tell you if I'm coming or not."

And then, there are those people that saw the invisible ink on the invitations that read, "please tap me while I'm on my way to the bathroom at church and let me know you are coming." I'm trying to beef up my memory skills for med school, but I just can't remember what all the people we invited will be doing at noon on our wedding day.

But then there are the guests who send back cards promptly with random and fun comments or quotes! These people remind me that there are gracious guests in the world.

Really though, besides stressing out over who's coming and who's not, what else should I be doing in these last 25 days. Here's what I got so far....

- finish programs (stayed up until 3AM working on them last night...sigh.)
- make sure hostess gifts are packaged pretty (Wide Eyed Mom is helping!)
- make sure card box gets finished (Wide Eyed Brother is helping!)
- find baskets for favors (Wide Eyed Maid of Honor finished them all!)
- go over layout and schedule with venue and planner
- get ribbon to the bakery
- get inserts to the linen people
- transportation (Mr. Man is on this one!)
- pack and organize wedding stuff and honeymoon stuff
- vow folders
- signage
- email/call photographer about "must take shots" and bridal/engagement portrait
- find text/specifics for a special ceremony portion
- assemble emergency kit
- write out duties for wedding party to be handed out at rehearsal lunch
- finalize make-up and a couple of other appointments

What else could I do now to make the day go more smoothly?

The Great (Hair) Debate - Part II For the Perm

2009-06-16T23:33:00.007-05:00

Yes, I love my natural, but

I don't love that...

- I can't make my hair look "different" very quickly. Any style takes a long time to do. ( Please note how it looks the same in all the formal events from the last post. Below is a formal event in my perm days.)

- People assume you are confident or mysterious when you have natural hair. (This is both a like and a dislike - more so a dislike when people want to touch your hair.

- The times I have tried to straighten my naptural hair often turn into a nightmare from the 80's. (Please see evidence of this below.)

- Sometimes my hair is just plain unruly.

- People comment that my naptural is not "doctor hair".

- I miss my swingy, flowy hair when I had a perm and....
- The fiance likes straight hair better. (Call me silly, but who doesn't want to look their best for their man?)

Now, the debate is not whether or not I should wear it straight for the wedding. But how should I get it to the straight state? A press that might turn into a frizzball in July Houston heat? Or chemicals that I'll have to keep up for a loooong time?

What would you do?

The Great (Hair) Debate Part I - For The Naptural

2009-06-16T23:06:00.012-05:00

I've only been natural for two years. At first, I was fiercely anti-perm + pro-natural. Now that I realize, "hey its just hair", I've been considering a relaxer. Don't get me wrong, I love my natural.

I love that...

- I can strike up conversations with women about hair just based on the fact that I'm natural.

- People assume you are confident or mysterious when you have natural hair.

- I get to display one of the awesome things that makes Black people special.

- I have the option to straighten my hair if I want to.

- I can workout and swim or run in the rain without some silly cap or paper bag over my hair.

- I can laugh at all the times my family told me I had bad hair.

- It doesn't require that much daily maintenance (important for a med school student)AND I don't have to depend on paying someone regularly to relax it.

- My hair has its own personality.

- I can avoid the unhealthy breakage a perm can cause.

See the photo evidence below for permed breakage and then naptural healthiness..

..

Check back tomorrow for Part II - For the Perm!

Bridal Shower - Dallas Edition

2009-06-15T18:39:00.011-05:00

My ring bearer's mommy and future sister-in-law threw me a super-fun shower in Dallas.
The shower had a tropical theme and despite some craziness in the beginning,
it turned out to be super fun.

Hostess With the Mostess #1

Hostess With the Mostess #2

Tiffany!

Business as per usual.

Mommy and the Girls

Cheese!

One of my many adopted moms

I got a very special gift from my niece and some sweet things from by best girlfriends.
Mostly though, I enjoyed the thoughtful advice and awesome company.

These are the times you thank God for putting awesome people in your life.

Sweet, Isn't It?

2009-06-09T06:13:00.011-05:00

Isn't it sweet?
Congratulations and blessings to Chuck and Whitney!

photos by Mary Catherine Penn

Our DIY Invitations

2009-06-06T01:47:00.005-05:00

I hope all the guests have opened them!

I Said We Moving On Up...

2009-06-04T22:53:00.004-05:00

Mr. Man and I finally found an apartment! We won't move in together until after the big day, but I'm trying to figure out how to make this whole thing easier i.e. not come home from the honeymoon with a million boxes in our living room and needing to find something random to pack for our mission trip the next week

Here's what I got so far:

- get rid of a million things
- slowly bring over things like clothes, dishes and books prior to the actual big "move-in" date
- have the (free!) movers move all the big stuff one week before the wedding
- try to pack my mission trip stuff prior to the move
- transfer all the services at my place to the new place before the wedding e.g. electricity, DirectTV/DirectTV in Texas
- watch Golden Girls via DirectTV because I have no school and I can!
- not freak out

anh. moving is whack.

any tips to make the move smooth?

The Ring for The Man

2009-05-28T09:41:00.004-05:00

The engagement ring gets special pictures and "oohs and ahhs", but the man's band is sadly neglected. In fact, when Mr. Man and I first got engaged, he complained that he didn't have any proof or evidence of his status change - especially since I lived 300 miles away.

I wanted to pick out something special for him, so I spent some time at Jewelry Vortex. They have a wide selection of styles, and although I don't see Mr. Man wearing anything blingy, it was pretty interesting to see what options were out there. They have everything from titanium to tungsten and Christian to Celtic. My band is platinum, but he insisted on white gold. (So much for the sentimental "metal matching", but it definitely costs way less.)

I think in the end, we will go with a simple beveled edge in white gold like this baby.

What type of bands do you like on guys?
I guess with all this talk about rings, I'm going to have to take some shots of mine at some point!

The invitations are..

2009-05-26T12:45:00.002-05:00

...gone.

My countertop is naked and I have an unreasonable fear that they will be ripped to shreds and covered in purple tie-dye when they arrive at their destinations.

I promise I will get back to posting when the semester is over. Four.more.days. :)

A Million Thanks

2009-05-12T09:20:00.004-05:00

I has asked a few friends to come over and help out with some crafts I needed to to get done for the wedding. The craft supplies were piled high and one of my good friends brought over breakfast food. Several things were not in our favor - the printer broke and not everyone was in a cheery morning mood, but my amazing (soon to be family) made magic happen. After a lot of spray glue and old Motown music, my invitations are DONE!

Of course I won't share them until my guests get them in thier hands, but I'm super excited to put them in the mail at the end of this month.

Also, this past weekend, Mr. Man surprised me after coming back from a wedding and telling me that it got him excited about our wedding. (I have a feeling he won't be as excited in the next few days as we pay our vendors that must be paid off sixty days in advance. Yuck.)

You Just Have to Laugh

2009-05-05T09:08:00.000-05:00

So...the bridesmaids dresses don't fit. It wasn't as if we guessed the sizes or people gained 35 pounds. The dresses are just.too.small.

Sometimes you just have to laugh at this whole wedding thing, and here is Sarah Haskins to help you (and me) to do so...

I need a plan.

video from current.com

No Fairy Godmother Necessary

2009-04-28T23:50:00.008-05:00

I don't have a fairy godmother, but if I did...

1. Our photographer would follow us our wedding night hotel to get this shot...

2. I would look like my wedding gym-spiration... (I'm working on this one!)

3. We would get to go to the honeymoon spot of our dreams because our amazingly awesome friends and family have offered to help. Oh snap! This one's really happening!

Totally thankful; no fairy godmother necessary. :)

photos from aravaggio.com and justjared.buzznet.com

like this...

2009-04-23T21:03:00.005-05:00

Mr. Man and I have been feeling a little like this lately - a little tired, stressed and overscheduled. It's high time for something fun. Wednesday, I gave him an invite to the surprise adventure I've planned for tomorrow. I'll let you know how it goes.

If you are a nice person, you'll do an anti-rain dance. Until then, back to the books.

Wedding Planning is Tough

2009-04-21T01:00:00.003-05:00

I'm not complaining about the actual process. I promise.

It's just hard to think about favors and gifts when your friends and family members are going through tough stuff. You've got to do it, because there is no magical wedding fairy who will appear and do it for you, but life and all the amazing people in it are WAY more important.

The details can stay on hold for a few days. I'm thankful that I can do what I can for the people I love.

Crafty Goodness

2009-04-17T17:10:00.005-05:00

I've always been a crafter, but wedding planning has brought out the crafty girl that lives underneath medical school books. I've made lots of DIY/crafty things for my wedding, but I haven't shared many of them on my blog. I feel like the "little things" will make a much bigger impact if they are shared with the wedding guests on the big day.

That doesn't mean I can't share my non-wedding crafts with you! Here's some things I've made in the past few months for others.

At my future sister-in-law's Pooh themed baby shower (assisted by my fabulous co-hostess)...

...invitations...

...a diaper cake surrounded by prizes for the guests who won the games...

...and a sign for the cutest little niece ever!

More to come!

It's Starting to Feel Real

2009-04-15T00:38:00.003-05:00

I looked over a tentative draft of our wedding day timeline, and it made everything seem so real! I mean, not that a ton of spreadsheets, number crunching, and vendor calls isn't real. The wedding slavedriver (Knot.com) says I have 94 days left and 184 things to do. Good thing I have medical school to procrastinate from wedding planning. Or is it the other way around?

I guess after I learn some neuroscience, I'll get cracking. I know finishing the invites is priorty, but after that, I'm not really sure what to tackle.

Favors? Bridal party gifts? What random project are you glad you got out of the way early in the game?

Rehearsal Lunch Invites

2009-04-11T12:47:00.005-05:00

Our rehearsal luncheon's theme is "Welcome to the West". Which invitation do YOU like best?

Number One

Number Two

Number Three
Cast your vote!

Who has 6 feet?

2009-04-09T15:01:00.004-05:00

I love love love shoes!

So much so, that I have now officially ordered THREE pairs for my wedding. I know. It's bad.

At first, I could not find the perfect pair of raspberry/magenta shoes to peek out from my dress.

So I ordered Pair #1 and I was going to go "old school" and have them dyed!
They've got a low heel( 2.25 inches) which will be great for my dress and the future hubby.

...but they were a LITTLE too big. (Can I get a sigh from all the girls with super skinny heels that make their shoes flip off in the back?)

So I ordered a half size smaller which hasn't arrived yet. (Pair #2)

THEN, while perusing, I found these beauties...

I called to see how many pairs were available, since I'm not sure how a three inch heel will work with my dress and wanted to wait until I was reunited till my dress again to see. And there was only one pair in my size. So of course, these became Pair #3.

What's your take?

Should I stand a mere 2.25 inches taller and have them dyed? Or almost be as tall as my man in magenta?

Happy 100 Days!

2009-04-08T17:54:00.005-05:00

I don't condone smoking, and no one I know is turning 100 today.

So why the celebration?

Today marks 100 days till I become a Mrs. !!!

photo from the mangoblog.com

Black Love/Inspiration

2009-04-07T15:04:00.005-05:00

It's rare to find black brides/weddings on the web,

but with 3.5 months to go, I need some black love/inspiration...

photos from southernweddingsmagazine via ashleybaberweddings

I'm Sorry

2009-04-03T16:52:00.003-05:00

NWR, but THIS is how I feel after 3 tests in 8 days.

Isn't medical school awesome?

Some say it's like drinking water from a fire hose.
I say : medical school = elementary school(AKA being in class all the time) + finals week in college x every other week.

ps I miss dance.

Wedding Wishes

2009-04-02T14:30:00.004-05:00

I wish....

...I had thought more carefully about my venue choice.

I Have....

2009-03-28T22:45:00.005-05:00

...wedding shoes!!!
(Well, they are on the way to Dallas.)

Let's hope our awesome photographer gets super cool shot

like this one from Santa Barbara Wedding Chic.

p.s. whipped cream

p.p.s. i know i'm posting on a Saturday night. i am in med school. what do you expect?

Favor-ite Things

2009-03-26T20:54:00.006-05:00

Pretty please, help me decide on the last favor for the "favor bar".

...something to "write it down on"....

...something to "sit it down on"....

...something to "heat it up" with...

Of course, they'll be personalized and coordinate with the rest of the decor.
What would you choose?
Leave me a comment and tell me what you think!

Getting Things Done - Part III

2009-03-26T20:50:00.002-05:00

Rehearsal umm...."Dinner"
Two of my fabulous bridesmaids spent all day with me scouting out rehearsal dinner sites. We'd decided on an evening rehearsal at the hotel followed by dinner at restaurant in shuttle distance from the hotel. After our ah-ha moment, we sat down for a bite when the mothers decided that our idea was out. "Do not pass go, do not collect $200", they said. We're back to a 10:00 AM rehearsal and rehearsal "lunch".

Guestbook
Got it! Preview coming soon.

Bridesmaids Shoes
On their way to Dallas!

More on the Invites
After tinkering in InDesign, I scouted out someone to do the printing. If our guest list were smaller, I'd tackle it myself, but I'm outsourcing this one for sure! I got a few quotes via email for around $250 , but when I went to another store, they quoted me $100. After seeing the surprised on my face, the guy said, "everyone else has over charged you, hunh?". Yippee-skippy for people actually being nice.

photos from elizabethannedesigns.com and ajnproductions.com

Help for a Less Than Tech-Savvy Bride

2009-03-24T17:45:00.004-05:00

I've been busy working on the invites (with help and insipration from Budget Savvy Bride), but I'm running into a snafu! When using InDesign, all the pretty fonts I've downloaded turn ugly when I export them as a PDF. Does anyone know how to fix this? Please help!!!

I'm In Love With Love Songs...Especially This One

2009-03-19T23:24:00.004-05:00

This song reminds me of Mr. Man. He broke a lot of my rules, his personality really does shine for all to see, and with a man like him by my side, I can't help but feel surrounded by love. Also, if you know me at all, you know any reference to dancing made me love the video.

By the way, is Beyonce having ballet class nostalgia? Leotards everywhere! I just hope the teenagers and crazies don't start wearing them on a daily basis.

Could we include it somewhere in the wedding? Should we?

video from youtube

Getting Things Done - Part II

2009-03-17T18:56:00.009-05:00

The First Fitting
I was little surprised at the color of my dress, but I still had a huge smile on my face as I unzipped its bag. With mom's help, I tried it on over this huge petticoat they gave me (thinking that it was the one I originally ordered) I stepped out and the seamstress immediately shooed me back into the dressing room to take it off!!! She said I didn't need one. I got pulled and poked by pins and then I had to take the dress off. (Please insert a moment of sadness because I didn't want to take it off.)Then... the saleslady tried to tell me I couldn't return the giant petticoat! Ugh. We're still in a debate about that one. How can they make me pay for something they mistakenly ordered?

And no, this is NOT my dress. Did you really think I was going to show you a picture of me trying it on?

Linens
I'd already decided on the vendor, but she and Mamma WideEyedBride spent 30 minutes convincing me that what I had picked would work. Indecision is a terrible thing! But alas, after playing with tablecloths and napkins, I had a centerpiece revelation! Woot!

Cake
Future brides take heed: if you've got a picture you want replicated make sure your vendors see it before you sign ANYTHING. We'd already signed a contract and they were trying to tell me that they could only recreate what I wanted for twice what they'd quoted me. This happened even after I'd described and drawn the thing at our first consultation! Apparently, to get 3-D look I wanted you have to use royal icing, which takes an entire day to dry and must be hand painted. Luckily, they worked with me to create a compromise.

photo from http://www.freewebs.com/emf7701/index.htm

Making It Happen - Part I

2009-03-17T18:11:00.016-05:00

Spring break was a whirlwind of planning! It has definitely been a week of both delights and disappointments. I'll recap over the next few days.

Bridesmaid and Hostess Gifts
I just can't ruin the surprise here, but I am super excited to give my girls their gifts. I couldn't ask for better girls to be there for me on the big day. And now that I've got a sewing machine, there's no stop to what I will make or personalize for them! I promise I wont' make them wear pink veils; see below.

Mr. Man
He ordered his guy's gifts too. I'm trying to convince him to let me come up with some cute...errr I mean manly way to package them. Wish me luck!

DIY Invites
In the works. It's tougher than I thought, but when the going gets tough, the bride gets Googling! Here's some paper goodness for inspiration.

photos from etsy.com, blog.african-americanbrides.com via globetrottingbride.blogspot.com, funnyweddingphotos.com

I know you're out there...

2009-03-11T09:50:00.006-05:00

I get lots of friend who send me Facebook messages or emails telling me that they read my blog. Of course, I get super-excited because I never thought anyone would actually be interested in my musings; I'd wanted the blog to be a place where I could record my ideas and be forced to do them in an organized way.

Sadly though, the benefit of having other people's input is lost if they don't comment ON the blog! All of this is written for me to say, leave a comment! It will make me smile!!!

In other randomness, I've decided against a clutch because I'm sure I will lose or not use it on the big day, but if I WAS going to get one, it would be this fab-ness from J.Crew.

image from j.crew.com

The Hostesses With the Mostesses

2009-03-09T23:46:00.012-05:00

I am uber-excited to see my line sisters at the wedding. I just couldn't bring myself to choose one or a few to be bridesmaids, so they are all going to be hostesses. They are the most awesome bunch of future lawyers, doctors, educators, and stars you will ever meet. No.Really.

Did I mention they are fiiiiine, too? The photographer isn't going to know what to do with her camera when she sees us all together, lol.

Especially in something champagne like these little numbers...

photos from dillards.com, nordstrom.com and anntaylor.com

Spring Break + Sparkle

2009-03-06T16:01:00.005-06:00

It's spring break! Whoop-whoop! Despite the fact that some studying must be done (ugh. medical school.), I plan to tackle a lot of wedding things this week. Wish me luck!

While I'm re-writing the "future accomplishments" list(again), check this out...

At adornbrides.com you can rent jewelry for the day. Now, I'm not normally into bling-bling, but I would love to don this gorgeousness on the big day.

Too bad it rents for 2,200 dollars.
Hey, if you're big balling, check it out today; they are offering 15% off - a whopping $270!!!

Oh yeah, and if you happen to have $32,900 sitting around (after you've given a considerable amount to God and the charity of your choice, of course) you can pick this little baby up - a paisley diamond cuff bracelet by Chad Allison.

photos from adornbrides.com and chadallison.com

Speaking of Shoes

2009-03-03T21:48:00.008-06:00

If you will remember, I really (really) wanted these.

But then I found out I'd have to sell my first AND second born to get them. And that if I wanted, I could wear a bright color.

So, I got super excited and wanted these! Raspberry-esque, low-heeled and pretty = perfect! And they didn't even require selling my first born.

Until I couldn't find them in my size in the right color.

Now I'm thinking about a flat, since I can't find a low heel. How about these?

Or these? I know my online super shoppers will have some suggestions!

photos from zappos.com, amazon.com, and 6pm.com

I'm all about updos....

2009-03-02T10:27:00.007-06:00

but THIS makes me want to wear my hair down.

photos from nancyaidee

March (Menswear) Madness

2009-03-02T01:11:00.005-06:00

Officially four months and two weeks left!

The clock is ticking, and there are definitely somethings that I wish I had done by now. Don't they say, "Nothing to it but to do it" or something like that?

One thing I (sorta) wish I had done was make my life easier by picking a more trendy or easy to match color. Finding raspberry bridesmaids dresses wasn't too hard, but now I can't find any ties for the guys! Mr. Man's only request is that they not wear bow ties, and I support him one-hundred percent. But that's as much as has been decided regarding the guys attire.

Can you help in the hunt?
Will I survive the next four months without going crazy?
Let the "march madness" begin!!

When do we rehearse?

2009-02-24T01:28:00.003-06:00

I want my rehearsal + dinner to be casual and fun. So far, it's casual, but not fun. I can't decide. Again.

I'm debating two options.

1) A rehearsal at the ceremony site from 10:30 A - 11:30 A on Friday morning and a BBQ lunch (at a BBQ place) to follow.

PROS
-We can actually use the ceremony site for the rehearsal.
- The wedding party will have the evening to relax and settle in to be ready for an "early" morning the next day.

CONS
- Out of town folks will have to either spend the night on Thursday or arrive early Friday morning. (And this might mean missing an entire day of work.)
- What in the world will the out of towners do on Friday night?
- Two separate locations? Ugh.

2) A rehearsal and rehearsal dinner at a private room in a BBQ restaurants's room on Friday evening (7:00 ish).

PROS
- Wedding party can come in later on Friday.
- Since we are rehearsing at the restuarant, we can take all the time we need and enjoy each other's company.

CONS
- The rehearsal wouln't actually be at the ceremony site. People might be confused on the big day.

I know I'm proabably thinking too hard about it. I always do.

Not Wedding Related , But Excitement Nonetheless

2009-02-22T14:01:00.002-06:00

At some point during my childhood, I was convinced I WAS a Disney princess. No. Really.
My favorites were Jasmine, Ariel and Belle, and to my parent's dismay I even tried to sing along with Aurora from Sleeping Beauty. (Unfortunately for them, I'm not the best of singers.)

Then I grew up a little and realized none of the princesses looked like me. That never stopped me from admiring Jasmine's fiery personality or Belle's intelligent kindness, but it has made me super excited for Disney's "The Princess and the Frog".

I know there's been debate and controversy over the film. And honestly, I wish they had kept her name as Maddie instead of Tiana, because (if the movie is set in the twenties, as is rumored) I don't think Tiana wasn't anyone's name in that decade.

Like I said, excitement nonetheless!

Inspiration

2009-02-19T21:56:00.004-06:00

As more and more things are coming together for the wedding, I'm starting to worry if it all "goes together". I love beautiful things, but I have a hard time imagining what they will look like when you put them all together.

Thanks to wedding inspiration boards, I can procrastinate (also called not studying) my worries away.

I can't find a board that really communicates what I really want, but this comes close.

This one is by Zanadia design.

The magenta and old gold are right on target, but I want to make it "lighter" for summer.
Also, although magenta and antique gold are my colors, they seem so formal and don't exactly allow for me throwing in random things like moss or manzanita branches.

I tried one on my own...

Does it work?

Photos from theknot.com, morilee.com, etsy.com, stevemadden.com, and michellerago.com

Naptural Nuptials

2009-02-17T19:32:00.000-06:00

As you can tell from my pictures, I'm naptural (no relaxer since Spring 2007) . I have no idea how I will wear my hair for the big day, but these naptural nuptial styles make me want to keep
my curlies around.

I rarely see pictures of black brides, but I was happy to find these!

\

What do you say?

"Yay for the naptural"? Or "tame those naps girl!"?

photos from khamitkinks.com and unquelynaptural's fotki

Why I'm Getting Married

2009-02-08T11:39:00.004-06:00

Today at church, someone jokingly (I hope) asked Terry why he was getting married. I can't answer for him, but I can answer for me.

Mr. Man knows I've been having a rough time here lately. I suggested that we go to the movies after I finished a good amount of studying for an upcoming exam. He looked up the time and location for Bride Wars. Yes, Bride Wars. He knew I wanted to see it and he did it of his own accord.

He sat through my wide eyed amazement at Ann Hathaways gown. (Which was even prettier when the strap got ripped off!) And my disgust at "10 layer tulle" - even on a Vera Wang Gown.

He sat through my excitement about Ann Hathaway's wardrobe and my gasp when I realized she had on MY Banana Republic dress!!!

But most of all, after the estrogen flood had subsided,we had a lively talk about us. About how I'm crazy. And he's crazy too. And about how , despite all the nonsense, we couldn't see ourselves any other way than married.

Oh yeah, and then we argued about Anne Hathaway.
I say: She's gorgeous. (Not in the traffic cone picture above, of course.)
He says: You only like her because she's classy. She looks like a cross between a moose and an anteater. And she's pale.
I say: You're mean. And really? A moose and an anteater?
We both crack up laughing.

Whatever. She's gorgeous.

DIY Downer

2009-01-31T16:35:00.003-06:00

I had all these projects planned, but I'm at a big road block.

For one project, I need a drill, but no one has one.

For another project, I need Mr. Man to go pick something up and he still hasn't gotten around to it.

For another project, I need the fabric that's across town at Mr. Man's house.

...and the last project I set in motion just turned out bad.

I'd wanted to take foam or wooden letters that said "Mr." and "Mrs." to put on the back of our chairs. I purchased foam and began painting. I'd hoped that with a few good coats of paint and high gloss, they'd look fancy. I guess my hopes were too high. The foam still looked like foam, the letters got stuck to my counter.

In summary, my counter now says " M M R S R".

Does any one have any ideas for something to decorate the backs of our chairs?

The Date Has Been Saved!

2009-01-25T21:26:00.006-06:00

Sorry I've been MIA, but family + med school is serious business.

We kept it pretty simple with the save the dates, check 'em out!

Yes to the Dress!!!

2009-01-19T16:42:00.005-06:00

I have officially ordered my dress! I have to admit its a little unnerving to order something you aren't going to see until three months later, but I'm still super excited.

I'd been harassed by my loving, amazingly organized cousin (also known and Maid-of-Honor-zilla) to order the dress ASAP, but I had this sneaking suspicion that I might find something I liked better. So I went alone (gasp!) to the store to try it on again. I wanted to make sure I wasn't making the decision off of someone else's "ooohs or ahhhs". And I feel in love. Again.

The only thing I could have wanted in a dress was a longer train. Luckily an awesome saleslady suggested that I get a cathedral style veil to create the illusion of a long train. I'd always thought those were only for really super fancy weddings, but now I've got all kinds of ideas swirling in my head.

Of course, one choice just leads to another.

I could go with a cathedral veil for the ceremony....

Side Note: I hope you're supposed to just walk down the aisle with these already behind you. I can just see Mr. Man and I tangled up in it and everyone laughing!

.... and a DIY flower for the reception.

Or I could go vintage-y with a netted veil.

The DIY to-do list is in motion, so maybe I'll attempt to create something for my hair.

Any suggestions?

And what in the world are you supposed to do with that much tulle if you wear a cathedral veil?

photos from affordableweddingveils.com, jenniferbehr.com, pearlseventsblog.com

Celebration!

2009-01-16T22:51:00.006-06:00

You have no idea how difficult it is to collect a bunch of addresses.
Or maybe you do.
Or maybe you don't - yet.
It was great when I'd send a text message that says "Hey, can you text me your address so I can send you a save the date?" And people would respond with "When's the date for the wedding?" ::doh::

Despite the difficulty, "it" is now official : save the dates are out!

I can post engagement pictures on the blog now!

Yippee Skippee!!!

Check out our super-duper-amazing photogragher's blog post about our shoot here.

Indecision

2009-01-15T18:27:00.002-06:00

If you say the title seriously enough and pause afterwards, it sounds like a feature film. No matter how you say the word "indecision", it is the bane of my existence. The bridesmaids dresses have been ordered, but my dress is still up in the air. Here are the options.

1. Dress I Fell In Love With But Would Have to Donate my Kidney (OK, not really) to Afford

2. Dress I Really, Really Like and Can Afford but Has Silvery Metallic Beading
(... and there is NOTHING Silver About My Wedding)

2. Dress I Haven't Tried On Yet but Feel Like I am Online Dating

I won't post pictures for obvious reasons, but since I've shared with you, I feel obligated to commit.

I will have a dress. This.Weekend.

Happy Inauguration!!! (Harass me afterwards if I don't have a gown.)

Hotel, Motel, Holiday Inn....

2009-01-08T17:09:00.004-06:00

I wanted to find an "under $100 a night" hotel for those traveling to the wedding - especially my college friends. Luckily, my venue has a deal with a nearby hotel that guarantees a great rate, free parking, and free shuttle to the venue. Perfect!

Now, how do I pass this information on to the guests?

Here are some ideas.

1.The wedding website. Good, but not for the technologically challenged.
2. An enclosure with the invite. Equal access for the technologically challenged, but getting it printed with the invite suite might cost some money.
3. The hotel provided info sheet. Easy for guests, but I don't want some big hotel paper making the invitation all ugly like.
3. A printed business card from VistaPrint.com. Might look better than a sheet of computer paper in the invite, but I'd still have to tack on the postage.

Any thoughts? How would you announce this deal to your out-of-towners?

What about these?

2009-01-06T23:56:00.002-06:00

I think they'd be pretty amazing peeking out from under my dress.

Time Is Of the Essence

2009-01-02T22:07:00.003-06:00

When I first envision a wedding, I envision guests dancing and having a blast. In planning, this is exactly what I had in mind. After the evening wedding was scrapped, I realized that an afternoon wedding didn't leave much time to boogie. How can we save time on the big day?

Here are some options.

1. Take Photos Before The Ceremony
Instead of formal photos during the "cocktail hour" we could take photos before the ceremony even starts. Mr. Man would see me before the ceremony, but the food could be served as soon as the room is "flipped" to reception style seating.

2. Have Open Seating
Although I'm totally obsessed with seating cards (having a table with cards for each guest which direct them to a specific table), Mr. Man says two things: 1) it will take longer for people to find their seats and 2) guest won't listen anyway and will sit where they want.

3. Start at 11:30 AM
It's early yes, but it will buy us a little bit more time.

We've got from 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM.
How can we make it a "rockin' reception" happen?
Do you have any other suggestions?

Flower Power

2008-12-31T08:40:00.011-06:00

Fine. I'll admit to being a girly-girl.
It is true that nothing makes me smile like fresh flowers.

On the other hand, most floral prints make my stomach turn. Luckily, with guidance from my amazing planner/decorator/wonderwoman we were able to keep it from looking like a country rose garden or some other idea that would make me nauseous.

My black thumb and I are still learning the names of flowers, but we've got some combination of the ones below. Somehow, I feel like each one represents part of my personality.

peonies - the showy flower, because I've been know to be "extra" at times

hydrangea - the all-over-the-place flower, because well, sometimes I am all over the place

and ranunculus - the orderly lady-like flower, because someday when I grow up I'll be organized and lady-like.

And this just made me smile.

My only fear is that in my new-found floral enthusiasm, I've included too many flowers. What do you think?

Thanks for stopping to smell the umm...peonies?

photos from pbase.com, saundersbrothers.com, easytogrowbulbs.com, and etsy.com

Things Are Getting Done

2008-12-29T08:54:00.003-06:00

Theknot.com's checklist is way too long and detailed.
It's time to think like the boys.

venue? chosen. check!
caterer? chosen. check!
photographer? chosen. check!
videographer? chosen. check!
DJ? chosen. check!

cake? chosen.
linens? chosen.

bridesmaid dresses? in progress.
bridesmaids gifts? in progress.
registry? in progress.
save the dates? in progress.
chair hanger? in progress.

my dress? umm....
out of town baskets? umm...
bathroom baskets? umm...
guestbook? umm...
flower girl basket/ring "pillow"? umm...
kid's entertainment? umm...
invitations? umm...
favors? umm...

200 days left. How am I doing?

The Little Pink Card

2008-12-27T22:31:00.000-06:00

The Christmas holiday has come and gone. I'm sure many men agonized about what to put under the tree for their honey. Not mine. Mr. Man is great at gift giving. But for the man who always wraps something out of left field, there is always this funny little thing: The Little Pink Card.

If you had to "fix your face" after you opened your gift, then this might be for you. The Little Pink Card is nifty wallet-sized card that assists
your husband, boyfriend or significant other in always buying you the perfect gift. Its customizable with your name and "favorites".

Do I really think people should get this card? No! It's crazy! If he gets you something, just smile and be thankful. But I still think it's funny.

On the wedding front though, things are getting crossed off.
We've decided on the cake, chosen the linens and picked a DJ.

Next, I'm looking forward to a shopping adventure with the best wedding coordinator out there on Tuesday. Craft and fabric stores, here we come!!!

Matchy-Smatchy!

2008-12-19T01:09:00.008-06:00

My bridesmaids and I will be going to pick out dresses soon. Although I have pretty much decided what I want, these pictures of non-matching but coordinated dresses makes me want to reconsider.

The coordination is much more modern and fresh than matchy-matchy dresses and every girl could choose a dress she loves.

So....to match or not to match?

My girls might look something like this...

photos from instyleweddings
collage from nordstrom, revolveclothing, urbanoutfitters and edressme

How is Wedding Planning Going?

2008-12-16T21:31:00.003-06:00

Here is an answer in song.

It starts off orderly and neat.
And then you get a million trillion ideas.
Beaker "said" it best.

(I promise I will get the engagement pictures up soon!)

Let Them Spend a Fortune on Cake!

2008-12-13T08:44:00.010-06:00

Since Mr. Man and I had to drive down to Houston for our engagement session, we took advantage of our time there to "cake shop". We left Dallas at 4 AM and had appointments from 8 AM till forever. I won't whine because it's cake tasting for goodness sake, but we were tired and that stuff is crazy expensive!

More about the adventure later, but in the meantime, it's just more fun to look at pretty pictures.

photos from the knot

I've Got the Shutterbug

2008-12-06T00:22:00.005-06:00

Engagement pictures are tomorrow!

He says he will die inside if I show him another outfit choice.

I guess that's what I get for living far away from most of my bridesmaids. I miss you ladies. :(

Wish us a warm cloudy day!

I'm With the Band(s)

2008-11-29T18:04:00.002-06:00

Mr. Man and I took a little time over the Thanksgiving holiday to get my engagement ring resized. While were at the store, I suggested that we look for wedding bands. Knowing Mr. Man is not an impulse buyer, I assumed that we would only look and not buy.

I tried on some that were too blingy for my taste. I tried on some that looked great with my engagement ring, but looked boring by themselves. And then, I found the one. Of course I wanted it. But I just knew that were weren't getting it today. So I politely asked the salesperson to put it back and took a phone call.

Somewhere during the phone call, the decision was made and the ring was purchased AND I FREAKED OUT. I'm not sure why. I'm as sure as sure can be about marrying Mr. Man. but it somehow seemed like a big ceremonious step that I hadn't prepared for.

I shared my crazy thoughts, and let me know I was silly. He was right.

Even though I know we've already made "the decision", each little step is new and exciting.

I can't wait for the next one.

Registry-ing

2008-11-25T22:52:00.013-06:00

Creating a bridal registry is a weird idea. You, in essence, are allowed to make a ginormous wish list of things you need or want. This is a bad idea for someone like me. Although deep down inside there lives a practical person who know that "things" are not the stuff of life, I do not deny that my eyes light up when I see high thread count sheets or beautiful china.

Mr. Man's "practical person" is much bigger. He would prefer cash gifts. So, as usual, we have come up with a compromise. I will get my long-dreamt-about adventure in a department store with a scanner and we will include a link on our wedding web page where guests can contribute towards our honeymoon or wedding.

Until the fateful day arrives , I can search for things that make me smile - the totally frivolous, expensive things that I would never actually register for.

Here's what I have found so far:

Just because it looks cool.
Glass Cookbook Holder at Williams Sonoma.

Because wrinked never equals cute.
Upright Steamer from Amazon.com

Two surfaces to cook on. One thing to clean.
Electric Indoor Grill by Williams Sonoma.

I'm a sucker for simple.
Oneida Dinnerware.

Modern. (me) Comfy. (him)
Soho Bedding at AJMoss

Maybe I want it just because it's cold, but who doesn't like hot chocolate?
Bialetti Hot Chocolate Pot at Williams-Sonoma
Because a picnic for two will be fun on day five and year fifty.
Classic Gourmet Picnic Basket from Picnicfun.com

What would you register for?

A Shopping Trip

2008-11-19T22:09:00.010-06:00

After help from my sorority sisters and hours of online searching, I'd finally decided on the engagement picture outfit. It was a pretty yellow wrap dress. I'd had it all figured out. The yellow was for fun and wrap dress was for flattering the figure.

The plan was all in motion until I ran it by Mr. Man.

He.hated.it.

Well actually, I'm being a bit dramatic. He said he didn't like it. And for a guy who rarely has an opinion on his own clothes, "i don't like it" is a pretty strong statement.

Normally, I'd find some cute shoes and keep it moving, but since this will go out to all our family and friends, I decided to rethink the outfit. Off to Northpark Mall we go!

Let me know if you see anythingonline that screams "wear me, wear me!".

photo from j.crew

Happy Feet

2008-11-15T16:50:00.002-06:00

Wouldn't your feet be happy if they had these on?

I'll love you forever if you find some similar for me.

Something For The Little One to Carry

2008-11-13T00:50:00.005-06:00

How awesome would it be to have the cutest little soon-to-be-godson ever carry this little number down the aisle?

Cost? According to Once Wed, about $7.70.

Another addition to the DIY list? I think so.

No one will pay any attention to it, because Mr. Man's godson is so cute, but if you're going to procrastinate, why not make good things come out of it?

photo from once wed

This Is Worth A Thousand Words

2008-11-07T00:08:00.003-06:00

::sigh::

My New Wedding Toy and Other Joys

2008-11-06T20:28:00.005-06:00

It's not Christmas yet, but I've gotten many presents!

First and foremost, the United States of America has an awe-inspiring new President! It didn't really hit me until I saw one of those posters with all the presidents on it that was in the front of your elementary school classroom. After number forty-four, that poster will look just a little different. I'm proud to have a Black president in office, but I'm even prouder that we have someone who is capable of moving this country to action.

Second, my new wedding toy is heat embossing tool. Its this little handheld machine you can use to emboss paper or other surfaces. I've been playing with it every chance I get. Pretty placecards and marvelous menus, here I come! You can check out a heat embossing tutorial on DIYBride.

photo from DIYbride

Somthing Old. Something New. Something Scary and Blue?

2008-10-31T09:37:00.007-05:00

I am not really big on Halloween, but I did find something both scary and wedding related.

Malibu Betty is "color for the hair down there".

It might be fun as a bridal shower gag gift, but what do you say when his grandmother asks you about your "something blue"?

Why not make it pretty?

2008-10-29T10:23:00.002-05:00

I know they say you won't ever touch your purse on the big day, but I've got to have somewhere to put my essentials.

Why not make it pretty?

This bag from dorchi's Esty shop is gorgeous. How cute would it look in raspberry satin with a subtle gold lining?

I Couldn't Help But Share

2008-10-26T14:59:00.007-05:00

I've been pouring over all things wedding, and on the rare occasion it happens, it makes me smile to see a Black love on the big day. Kate Headley photographed Sonya and Janssen's gorgeous wedding and Elizabeth Ann Designs and The Bride's Cafe both posted about it. The photo on my blog is just a sneak peek. (Check out those orange shoes!)

Click here and here to see something simply gorgeous.

Guess who....

2008-10-24T10:36:00.009-05:00

....has a wedding website!!! Whoo-hoo!

I am not sure why, but it feels all extra-official.

We shall release the address when it's all up and running.

Be on the look out.

(This post is for you, Diadem.)

The Big Send Off

2008-10-23T21:47:00.009-05:00

So the reception comes to an end and its time to send off the bride and groom....

Sparklers? Nope. It's a daytime wedding.

Bubbles? *shrugs* They are fun for the young and young at heart, though.

Lavender? Mmm. Smells pretty.

Ribbon wands? Love, love, love the photos. Could totally DIY.

What do you think?

Gocco Goodness

2008-10-16T19:33:00.020-05:00

I have yet to find an invitation in the color I really want, but I have discovered a new obsession- Gocco.

It's a little machine from Japan that is basically an at home screen printer.

fdjkalfsm.l

What is the awesome thing about Gocco, you ask? It can make beautiful things like the photo to the left. And I could make a coordinated wedding stationary set.

Now, how will I go about getting one?

Sadly, the already made Gocco invites are too much for the student wedding budget, but check out more amazing Gocco'ed stationary at Ugly Kitty's Etsy Shop.

Just. Gorgeous.

2008-10-14T03:39:00.002-05:00

I absolutely love this dress.

The color is delicious.

Sweetheart vs. Traditional Table (vs. Harvest Table)?

2008-10-12T22:28:00.011-05:00

Our venue typically has the "sweetheart" setup - where the bride and groom sit at a table all to themselves, but I've been wondering if that's the best way to go for our reception.

Here is the good, the bad, and the ugly on sweetheart tables.

THE GOOD

It might encourage people to come talk to us, since they won't have to fight with a table of our bestest friends. (And with a ton of out-of-town guests, it will allow us to spend time with more of our guests!)

Our wedding party could sit with their dates. Because there is no way 7 guys, 7 gals, and 14 dates can sit at one head table. (Plus, the dateless attendants won't feel left out.)

Maybe a few moments of "alone time" on our big day.

THE BAD

We have to be separated from the people who we wanted to witness our wedding the most: the bridal party.

THE UGLY

What The Wedding Fairy at Don't Be That Bride calls the "Nutcracker Effect". Essentially, like Clara and the Prince in the Nutcracker, your guests shy away from talking to you and don't get to share in your new found joy.

So while researching, I came across the "harvest table". Apparently, this is a Midwest thing where you put an oval shaped (made up of two rectangular tables placed side by side, with semi-circular tables on either end) table in the center of the room. That way you are still "separate" from the rest of the room, but are also accessible to all of your friends and family.

So what's the verdict? Sweetheart, head or "harvest"?

photo from Erin Hession photography

Possible DIY Projects

2008-10-09T00:00:00.004-05:00

If anyone knows me, they know I love to create and "beautify".

What better place to beautify other than my wedding?

Here is my current potential DIY list...

save the dates.
invitations.
RSVP cards.
guestbook.
escort cards.
table numbers.
and a few other surprises.

Am I being too ambitious? Any advice?

Pretty Pretty Pictures

2008-10-07T11:08:00.006-05:00

What's been on my "wedding mind" lately? Photography.
Here is an endearing engagement shoot for your viewing pleasure.

photos from altmix photography

Lights, Camera, Action!!!

2008-10-04T21:11:00.010-05:00

Houston, we have a photographer!
Now, what to wear in the engagement photos?

My vision (yes, I know I'm being dramatic) is "date night in the city".
Here are some options.

I like this one, but it sort of looks like she just came from the (fashionable) office.

This color is juicy!

I'd wear this one with a bright colored cardigan and fun shoes for color.

What do you think? Please feel free to send recommendations!

photos from victoria's secret

my FAVORite things

2008-09-28T14:04:00.008-05:00

I'm not sure what I want to give as favors at out wedding.

Here are some things I love...

The DIY candy bar is great fun.

If you are going to to a CD, why not do it in style?

Chocolate covered ANYTHING makes me happy, and this box is gorgeous too!

Something silly for the guests seems like it would be a hit.

Decisions, decisions.

photos from the knot, jesse and deana's wedding blog, and rebecca thuss

Honeymoon Happiness

2008-09-23T19:06:00.003-05:00

I send him a list of potential cake bakers.

He sends me a list of honeymoon destinations.

Guess which one made me more excited?

Good Morning I Do's

2008-09-21T20:57:00.003-05:00

I helped one of the sweetest women I know decorate for a wedding this weekend. She has coordinated several weddings in the past few months, and with just ONE wedding to plan, I know SEVERAL have to be grueling. I wish I had pictures to share, because she is good at what she does! Everything was beautiful, but one thing made me a bit nervous.

The wedding was supposed to start at 11:00 AM, but all the vendors waited until the last minute to set up and the guests seemed to all be late. It seemed that most of the delay occured because the venue would not allow vendors inside until 9:30 AM.

As I placed the centerpieces and steamed the chair covers, I couldn't help but wonder if people overslept, had a hard time getting there so early, or one of five million things I could conjure up.

And then, the big worry: Will it be like that for our ceremony at noon?

Of course, I did some personal research to find out that our venue has a three hour set up time. Phew!!! Alright, lets hope no one at the wedding is yawning through our "i do's" like this little girl.

When to "Save The Date"?

2008-09-16T00:48:00.006-05:00

When in the world are you supposed to send save-the-dates?

I keep hearing this huge range from 8 to 2 months. I want a photo save the date, so I'm starting to make my own timeline which is something like "whenever our engagement pictures would be cutest". I was thinking spring- the season of flowers, birds, happiness and the like.

But perhaps a July wedding (during prime vacation time) should have earlier save the dates. January-ish maybe? I guess Houston won't be that cold in January. If it is, these winter-ish save the dates from Jessica Lynn 's blog make me think that our pictures will be cute any time of the year.

Yummy, Yummy

2008-09-14T13:12:00.003-05:00

We have a caterer! As of Friday, September 12th, we WILL have yummy food at our wedding.

Mr. Man and I both love food and when we found this caterer, we were reminded how great it can be. At our first tasting, the food was very flavorful and he's just the sweetest guy ever. He said that if we have to ask our guests how the food was, then it wasn't good enough. I'm super excited!!! (Can you tell?) The photo is a display from his website.

Now, stay tuned for choosing the menu....

"Final" Inspiration Board

2008-09-05T17:03:00.003-05:00

I put quotations around the word final, because I hope to find more beautiful things to inspire me before July 18, 2009. This collage has things I love: vibrant color, orchids, and a richness that is not too "stuffy".

Now, here comes the "fun" part....

I absolutely love the program in the photo, but I haven't found any paper products in that color (orchid, raspberry, or whatever name it's going by). Have you?

My First Inspiration Board II

2008-08-19T17:21:00.004-05:00

I love the "punch" of the fuchsia for July. What do you think?

Bridal Portraits

2008-08-03T23:53:00.005-05:00

Of course every girl wants the perfect dress, but how awesome would it be to have fun in the "perfect dress"?

These photos by Justine Ungaro at theunbride.com look like the type I'd like to take for my bridal portraits. I really don't want any of that "holding the bouquet and staring off into the distance with a soft focus" nonsense. I wonder if we'll have enough in the budget to make it happen. ::.Sigh.::

My First Inspiration Board

2008-07-31T12:48:00.005-05:00

Sorry for the long hiatus. That "medical school thing" took me away for a second, but I'm all settled in/buried under mountains of biochemistry now.

I wanted to share my first inspiration board here. I'm not making any decisions quite yet, but here are some things I love.

Save The Date!!!

2008-07-31T11:58:00.007-05:00

I discovered another bride-to-be who will be married on our date! Lucky for me, because she has great taste.

Look what she found...

I am totally in love with these save the date cards by Melissa Jill. I've already asked my most fashionable friends to help me find the perfect outfit (even though we probably won't take pictures until the spring).

Hopefully, I can design something supercute like these!!!

Pose For the Camera Now...Click! Click!

2008-07-21T12:35:00.009-05:00

Photography. Everyone says it's one of the most important items for your wedding day.

For me, important translates as "you know if you make a bad choice, your wedding pictures will be terrible". Ahhh!

Ok, here goes.

Choice A ...

Great for the Budget

Seems to have an Amazing Eye

Has Only Done FOUR Weddings

Choice B ...

Extremely Experienced

"Clicked" Immediately With the Photographer Who We Would Work With

We Require Some Serious Budget Shuffling

Choice C....

Right on the Money

An "OK" Style, Nothing too Impressive

Not Exactly Sure Who Would Be Filming

Let the deliberations begin!

Found a Dress in the Color I Want!

2008-07-21T12:23:00.005-05:00

I found this dress as Jessica McClintock on a trip to the mall!
It matches the fabric swatch I've been carrying around in purse like a lunatic! It's a bit short, but very cute.

Is it too "party" for a bridesmaid's dress?

We shall see if Jessica McClintock comes out with any other styles in this color...

Houston Bridal Extravaganza

2008-07-20T09:12:00.007-05:00

An entire convention center filled with wedding vendors? I thought it would be a bride-to-be's dream. I got asked at least seven times if I'd registered for a "free" tux at Men's Warehouse, but at least the terribly sad looks on groom's faces were enough to keep me entertained. (Ladies, unless you've got a groomzilla on hand, PLEASE don't make him suffer!)

I didn't get a ton of ideas and leads, but the show did allow me to show my mom and maid-of-honor (who are both skeptics when it comes to anything I choose) more of my ideas.

We saw this table, which convinced them that a bright saturated table cloth could work for the reception space.

We saw a pomander ball that convinced them that it would, indeed, be okay for my bridesmaids to carry them instead of bouquets.

It seems like a bridal show is more for "idea gathering" than actual planning.

The Red Tent

2008-07-18T10:15:00.004-05:00

I just finished The Red Tent by Anita Diamant. I admit that I'm a sucker, but I cried.

I cried at the happy parts and I cried at the sad parts. The women of the Bible had to have stories that were never told, and this one, the story of Jacob and Leah's daughter, rings as true as any we may ever find on earth.

The Red Tent illustrates that then, as now, love is dangerous. You put a lot on the line when you give someone your heart. And there are so many things that can take your loved ones away. It's both terrifying and beautiful.

The women of that time celebrated marriage differently of course - but they didn't forget the important parts - family, food and a week of "alone time". :) One year to go till our day comes, and I hope I don't forget the important parts.

What are your colors?

2008-07-16T09:35:00.004-05:00

This question is getting to be a little ridiculous. I mean after someone finds out I'm engaged, shouldn't they want to ask something a little more sentimental like, "Are you excited?" or even something more practical like,"when is the wedding?"?

Maybe I'm only feeling this way because...i.don't.know.

There are many things to consider. This is how the thought process goes...

1. Green would look great on black bridesmaids...
2. .....but I've always loved purple.
3. ....but purple looks cheap on many fabrics.
4. Purple and green? .....Barney.
5. Ok, nix the purple. Pink and green?.....Rival sorority colors.
6. How about between a pink and a purple?...gorgeous.
7. Ok, between and pink and a purple. Like this color....

8. Wait. Chiffon? Not going to work.
9. Can't find this "Wildberry" color anywhere else!
10. Maybe the green would look "richer".
11. Back to number one.

Location, Location, Location?

2008-07-13T21:05:00.009-05:00

When it comes to the location for our wedding, these are the facts:

What he wants: a LOT of people

What I want: gorgeous, an “outside” feel, NOT a stuffy ballroom with pink curtains

What we’ve got: a tight budget, a bride who is going to be in medical school and not willing to completely make over a space

My online searches pulled up what I thought was going to be my dream location. A gorgeous glass enclosed chapel overlooking a forest? Works for me. Capacity of up to 350 people? Check for him.

When I visited, I was assured of two things: 1) it was gorgeous and 2) it was out of my budget. :(

After I sulked for a few days, I realized that Ashton Gardens, while nice, was a little generic - a kind of a “hurricane vases with floating petals in your colors” place. I won’t tell you how many other places I visited, but eventually, I stumbled on a gem.

Our wedding venue is large, gorgeous and has an outdoorsy feel. The fact that it’s NOT one big giant room immediatley nixes the stuffy ballroom feel. I was sold! Email me to check out a video tour!

Like Night and Day

2008-07-13T20:55:00.000-05:00

I’m not the kind of girl who has dreamed of her wedding since she was five, but whenever I imagined getting married, I imagined it at night. I mean, doesn’t every bride want an evening wedding?

Of course!

So every location charges more for an evening wedding.

Yuck!

I tried to make the case to Mr. Man. I used all the excuses in the book. It’s more romantic. It will give more of a “party” feel. Less flowers and more candles means less money. We can make a super-cool exit with sparklers. The ceremony and reception won’t be rushed so they can get in another event. People will just be getting up at noon! And I’m sure I came up with something else.

Seems like the money is talking a little louder.

Others have tried to convince me that an afternoon wedding will be just as good.

Out of town guests can enjoy a night on the town later. People will dance and have fun no matter what time it starts. The people set the tone, not the time. No one wants to figure out where the centerpieces and stuff should go at ten at night when they are exhausted. And other such comments.

Brides-to-be and planners, what’s your take?

First Things First: Engaged(The Video)

2008-07-08T17:45:00.003-05:00

I hope this doesn’t make me sound like the most terrible/ungrateful bride-to-be ever, but Mr. Man’s AMAZING surprise proposal has certainly hyped up my 2009 wedding. I feel like the luckiest girl in the world, but how can I, little old me, plan and execute a wedding to top that night?

There were about 80 people there, 10 limousines, 17 rooms at a downtown hotel, an incredible amount of planning that all resulted in this video.

After all the smiles, tears, and “I love you’s” between me and Mr. Man, I’ve gotten comments like this: “I can’t wait to see what the wedding is like! ” and “if THAT was just the proposal…”.

Am I allowed to be worried? Please say yes.