I am left married to the man I love more than anything in this world.
Now what? Enjoy forever.
Thanks to all who have helped and supported along the way.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Thursday, July 15, 2010
rawr
I don't think I've ever been more disappointed in so many people at one time. Everyone received their invitation months ago. I told them they needed to get the information to me no later than the 10th. Yet, somehow people still are undecided, even after giving an RSVP otherwise. It seemed that no one gave a damn enough to actually request time off, or bring up that they would need that day off or to leave early. So now, I have a shit ton of bubbles and shot glasses which I paid for that are going unused. I really would have rather not spent that money - as paying for the wedding, for everyone to eat drink and be marry... means that John and I don't get a honeymoon. I'm completely crushed. I have to have my final numbers in this afternoon, and I have no idea what they are. There are people coming that weren't invited, people not coming that said they were.
For those of you who RSVPd, made the necessary arrangements, I thank you and this is so not directed at you.
For my family - you're amazing! Thank you indefinitely for all the help, love, and support you've given me to make this whole thing happen.
I know that things change, but I guess I just assume that everyone operates the same way I do. That if there was doubt it would have been brought up immediately. I would have mentioned to any employer upon being hired that I needed to take the 22nd off, I would have put in for it off the instant the invitation was received. I know how business operate and handle requests, I know that if this was done there would have been no issue of the waiting. I also know, that if it was your wedding, I would call out if I didn't get the time off.
I guess the people that really matter will be there. The people who are true friends and made plans and are flying in from across the country, driving hours upon hours. The people that offered a helping hand and a loving thought. The people that said, why yes I will be there to join with you in the most important moment of your life. To celebrate your love and rejoice with you.
It seems trite to point out how much all of this has cost us. How we've run out of money and still have more to spend to get things right. It doesn't really matter. And it's not the point anyway. I guess it's just something people can understand easier than lack of loyalty and my crushed belief in people.
I guess that about finishes my rant. I'm pretty sad that the most important part to me (the honeymoon) isn't going to happen... but I guess we have to roll with the punches sometimes.
For those of you who RSVPd, made the necessary arrangements, I thank you and this is so not directed at you.
For my family - you're amazing! Thank you indefinitely for all the help, love, and support you've given me to make this whole thing happen.
I know that things change, but I guess I just assume that everyone operates the same way I do. That if there was doubt it would have been brought up immediately. I would have mentioned to any employer upon being hired that I needed to take the 22nd off, I would have put in for it off the instant the invitation was received. I know how business operate and handle requests, I know that if this was done there would have been no issue of the waiting. I also know, that if it was your wedding, I would call out if I didn't get the time off.
I guess the people that really matter will be there. The people who are true friends and made plans and are flying in from across the country, driving hours upon hours. The people that offered a helping hand and a loving thought. The people that said, why yes I will be there to join with you in the most important moment of your life. To celebrate your love and rejoice with you.
It seems trite to point out how much all of this has cost us. How we've run out of money and still have more to spend to get things right. It doesn't really matter. And it's not the point anyway. I guess it's just something people can understand easier than lack of loyalty and my crushed belief in people.
I guess that about finishes my rant. I'm pretty sad that the most important part to me (the honeymoon) isn't going to happen... but I guess we have to roll with the punches sometimes.
Friday, July 9, 2010
In less than two weeks....
I'll be married! Kind of. But that's another story altogether.
Everything is set up. All we need now is a final head count. Due to people not being unemployed, I think it's going to be a lot less than expected and than desired I guess. I mean, less people means less expense, but it also means less friends there to share in the good times with.
We're going to the Nelscott Manor in Lincoln City for our honeymoon. There's a jacuzzi tub for two overlooking the ocean. Yeah, I'm excited.
My wonderful Aunt/Sister Melissa got us our flowers. Yay for pink roses, red roses, white alstromeria and such! We'll just need to turn these bouquets into my bouquet, three bridesmaids bouquets, a toss bouquet, petals for the flower girl, and centerpieces... sometime....
My bridesmaids are all set up (I think...) and the playlist is made. We still need to actually download the songs and transfer them to phone/CD/something. I hope that people actually dance... that's what weddings are for, right?
I'm pretty excited, but also scared I guess. Not scared.... just, it all seems so surreal - and I won't believe it until I'm standing on the sand with him I guess. I need to write down my vows on notecards... or memorize them. So close! I hope that everything goes the way we want it to.
Whew! Now what?
Everything is set up. All we need now is a final head count. Due to people not being unemployed, I think it's going to be a lot less than expected and than desired I guess. I mean, less people means less expense, but it also means less friends there to share in the good times with.
We're going to the Nelscott Manor in Lincoln City for our honeymoon. There's a jacuzzi tub for two overlooking the ocean. Yeah, I'm excited.
My wonderful Aunt/Sister Melissa got us our flowers. Yay for pink roses, red roses, white alstromeria and such! We'll just need to turn these bouquets into my bouquet, three bridesmaids bouquets, a toss bouquet, petals for the flower girl, and centerpieces... sometime....
My bridesmaids are all set up (I think...) and the playlist is made. We still need to actually download the songs and transfer them to phone/CD/something. I hope that people actually dance... that's what weddings are for, right?
I'm pretty excited, but also scared I guess. Not scared.... just, it all seems so surreal - and I won't believe it until I'm standing on the sand with him I guess. I need to write down my vows on notecards... or memorize them. So close! I hope that everything goes the way we want it to.
Whew! Now what?
Saturday, May 1, 2010
when I originally had Brittany pick out her bridesmaid dress, she was going to be my only bridesmaid as John refused to ask anyone but Corey. I wanted to ask others, but wanted to keep things even. eventually I decided I didn't care and asked two others. due to the financial situation one finds herself in, I gave them very free reign on the dress they will be wearing. as things get closer I am getting worried this wasn't such a wise choice. we're mixing formal with not... differing colors...i fear a mess. I think it's too late to do anything about it though as purchases have already been made. I'm just hoping everything works out. I so do want everything to be perfect.
we're having to use the credit card for the wedding to stay alive... I'm nervous that we're not going to be able to both pay for the wedding and keep us fed and the bills paid. everything is just so limited right now, it's making me nervous.
we are so close to the day, and are almost kind of prepared... we haven't figured out hotel info yet, or honeymoon locale. we don't have an arch or an idea for one. we decided that for flowers we're just going to get them the day before at a store as they'll be a quarter of the price that way. John needs his outfit and to figure out what his groomsmen are wearing. I need to get my shoes and figure out which shoes my bridesmaids are wearing ( this I am having be the same). we need to make a playlist and decide on whether to have someone John knows dj or not.
I think that's it... now what?
we're having to use the credit card for the wedding to stay alive... I'm nervous that we're not going to be able to both pay for the wedding and keep us fed and the bills paid. everything is just so limited right now, it's making me nervous.
we are so close to the day, and are almost kind of prepared... we haven't figured out hotel info yet, or honeymoon locale. we don't have an arch or an idea for one. we decided that for flowers we're just going to get them the day before at a store as they'll be a quarter of the price that way. John needs his outfit and to figure out what his groomsmen are wearing. I need to get my shoes and figure out which shoes my bridesmaids are wearing ( this I am having be the same). we need to make a playlist and decide on whether to have someone John knows dj or not.
I think that's it... now what?
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Dress Details and Pictures
While I totally have said I got a dress and such I wanted to elaborate. I was planning on getting something fluid, soft, forgiving. Empire waist embellishment and chiffon. I tried on so many of those types of dresses, as well as a few oddly geometric designs. When I first put on the dress I ended up loving, I was like... hm... it's really pretty. No train, and it's not too heavy. Eh. Then while I was waiting for sales lady Kristine to get more dresses for me to try on I went... Oh wow, this dress is fantastic! I tried on a few more, but I kept thinking of how perfect the dress was, and how even more fabulous with a pink bow in the back. It was not at all what I thought I would end up liking... but I absolutely love it! Kristine asked if I wanted to try on more, and I said sure so she went to go scavenge through the store to find something else.
When she left, I put back on the satin, pick-up goodness and started to wander around. I played with some clips and some things. Then my aunt Chris put a necklace on me and I was... "wow!" It fit so gracefully with the dress and really added an extra bling I thought was absolutely great. Normally, I'd be turned off by something so large, but it really worked. We kept messing around with veils and things and then it was ... "aaw!" So fantastic. Embellished with beads that picked up and played in the light and matched the softness of the dress and the sparkle of the necklace.
I told Kristine that I didn't need any more dress options - this was it! So she squeed and messed around with hair pieces and things, but we went back to the original "aaw" veil and stayed.
I suppose I am indeed female after all. Pictures below because I'm too lazy to work with everything at the moment.
When she left, I put back on the satin, pick-up goodness and started to wander around. I played with some clips and some things. Then my aunt Chris put a necklace on me and I was... "wow!" It fit so gracefully with the dress and really added an extra bling I thought was absolutely great. Normally, I'd be turned off by something so large, but it really worked. We kept messing around with veils and things and then it was ... "aaw!" So fantastic. Embellished with beads that picked up and played in the light and matched the softness of the dress and the sparkle of the necklace.
I told Kristine that I didn't need any more dress options - this was it! So she squeed and messed around with hair pieces and things, but we went back to the original "aaw" veil and stayed.
I suppose I am indeed female after all. Pictures below because I'm too lazy to work with everything at the moment.
Fairy Godmothers and the like
After realizing we were never going to be able to come up with all the money needed to dress ourselves, let alone the $50 a person it's going to cost to throw the wedding, I was quite downhearted.
I talked to my grandma and she assured me that we'd make it work. We tried to get loans, but ... credit's not so great on the homeward front.
So now we have my grandma's credit card that will allow us to pay back the wedding expenses over time, instead of all up front. It's pretty fantastic!
We have the envelopes all stuffed and stamped and ready to go, we just need to drop them off at a USPS drop box because they're too big to put in the outgoing mail spot of our apartment.
I got my dress. I know, I know I already bought a dress. Then the boob thing happened, so ...yeah. As bad as it sounds I'm claiming bankruptcy so the credit card I used the dress for is *poof*. I went... a little crazy, I'll admit. I got the dress, and a pink sash for it, a veil, and a necklace. Then a slip to wear under the dress. Yeah, I spent a little too much... especially on the veil... but when it was all put together it was just so... perfect. I felt completely wonderful, and yes, a bit like a princess.
Today I get to go pick out my wedding band. Yay!
The only other things we need to do now-ish are to reserve our night of the wedding hotel, and our honeymoon once we figure out what we're doing. We also need to reserve the site if we need a permit, and figure out if John needs to change his name before the wedding or if he can do it on the wedding license.
Of course, we still need to get all the ceremony stuff squared away, and figure out just what we're doing for flowers and favors.
Thankfully, we have enough to do what we'd like... I mean, within reason of course.
It's such a wonderful feeling to not have to be pulling out my hair figuring out how on earth we're going to be able to pull off something even remotely nice.
If you're a boy renting a suit, or know of a boy who needs to rent a suit, let me know. If everyone goes in together John gets a free one out of the deal which would be super fantastically awesome. Yeah.
I feel so blessed to be able to borrow this money; while I know that I'm totally responsible for it in the eventual, right now it makes me feel like the sky is the limit.
I talked to my grandma and she assured me that we'd make it work. We tried to get loans, but ... credit's not so great on the homeward front.
So now we have my grandma's credit card that will allow us to pay back the wedding expenses over time, instead of all up front. It's pretty fantastic!
We have the envelopes all stuffed and stamped and ready to go, we just need to drop them off at a USPS drop box because they're too big to put in the outgoing mail spot of our apartment.
I got my dress. I know, I know I already bought a dress. Then the boob thing happened, so ...yeah. As bad as it sounds I'm claiming bankruptcy so the credit card I used the dress for is *poof*. I went... a little crazy, I'll admit. I got the dress, and a pink sash for it, a veil, and a necklace. Then a slip to wear under the dress. Yeah, I spent a little too much... especially on the veil... but when it was all put together it was just so... perfect. I felt completely wonderful, and yes, a bit like a princess.
Today I get to go pick out my wedding band. Yay!
The only other things we need to do now-ish are to reserve our night of the wedding hotel, and our honeymoon once we figure out what we're doing. We also need to reserve the site if we need a permit, and figure out if John needs to change his name before the wedding or if he can do it on the wedding license.
Of course, we still need to get all the ceremony stuff squared away, and figure out just what we're doing for flowers and favors.
Thankfully, we have enough to do what we'd like... I mean, within reason of course.
It's such a wonderful feeling to not have to be pulling out my hair figuring out how on earth we're going to be able to pull off something even remotely nice.
If you're a boy renting a suit, or know of a boy who needs to rent a suit, let me know. If everyone goes in together John gets a free one out of the deal which would be super fantastically awesome. Yeah.
I feel so blessed to be able to borrow this money; while I know that I'm totally responsible for it in the eventual, right now it makes me feel like the sky is the limit.
Monday, March 15, 2010
John's Ring
Saturday we went by Powell's to get a book for John. On our way out I saw a stand advertising a ring at Harry Ritchie's. I mentioned how I didn't like it, and John said he did so we dipped inside to take a closer look. A little while later we had each picked out our favorite bands. John ended up loving the design on the poster thing, and so we'll go get that today. We don't have enough extra funds to get my ring too, but that's okay - I'm going dress shopping this weekend! I'm not sure which one he ended up getting, but it's one of these two:
I hope he's as excited as I would be. He's got his groomsmen situation together, and his wedding band. He's just about done with his necessity in the wedding situation. He just needs to decide what to make the groomsmen wear, and what he's wearing. Then he's just in charge of the reception flowers. Come to think of it, there's not much either one of us has to do at this point. Make a couple calls to get chairs and things, figure out what flowers we're using across the board, and that's it. Other than make ourselves pretty of course. Hopefully someone will buy the dress I got a few months ago to help with funds.
Or I'll get a Johnathan that's willing to go to the bank and take out a loan...
I hope he's as excited as I would be. He's got his groomsmen situation together, and his wedding band. He's just about done with his necessity in the wedding situation. He just needs to decide what to make the groomsmen wear, and what he's wearing. Then he's just in charge of the reception flowers. Come to think of it, there's not much either one of us has to do at this point. Make a couple calls to get chairs and things, figure out what flowers we're using across the board, and that's it. Other than make ourselves pretty of course. Hopefully someone will buy the dress I got a few months ago to help with funds.
Or I'll get a Johnathan that's willing to go to the bank and take out a loan...
Friday, March 5, 2010
Tradition
I received an e-mail with a 'hey visit our site and check this forum out' theme from one of the wedding sites I frequent. It was on the topic of what traditional things you're leaving out. I realized that as traditional as I feel... we're really leaving out quite a bit of the 'wedding' feel of things. Honestly though, I don't think it's a super bad thing.
We're not planning a tens of thousands of dollars extravaganza. The three thousand and some change is more than we can afford.
No one is giving me away. Last time I checked I was the master of my own destiny, yes?
No father figure walking me down the aisle. This seems to be tied to arranged marriages or something... I'm not sure and don't care to research. I'm getting married to John and it seems silly to have anyone else walk me down the aisle. --EDIT: Grandma's walking me down the aisle, although...she's not much of a 'father' figure now is she?--
No veil. This tradition seems to be fading pretty fast anyway across the board. --EDIT: Yeah.. I did end up getting a veil. I can't help it, sometimes I'm just a girl! --
No aisle runner, no ring bearer, no ushers, no 'his side' vs. 'her side.' Seriously... we don't have large enough family coming to count and John doesn't really have any... so it seems pointless. The whole processional bit is so overdone. Although we will have a flower girl, because every girl wants to be a flower girl so I decided to make that wish come true.
Not walking down the aisle to 'here comes the bride' or other 'classical' piece of music. I'm not telling you what I'm walking to though - you'll know it when you hear it.
Traditional vows. My grandpa is officiating the ceremony, and we're writing our own vows... should be fun!
No garter toss / bouquet toss. Because, really - we hardly have any totally single friends, it's awkward if you're in a relationship and catch one because then it's like ha ha you're next, and I'm not going to throw a bouquet to two people, lol. -- EDIT: We were told we just 'had' to do these. So... apparently we are... --
No cake cutting. I don't know if this will be totally cut out, but I'm kind of thinking it should. Dessert comes with the meals we're ordering anyway and I don't like all that... attention. Saves $ too. -- EDIT: We are doing the cake cutting on a cake just for John and I --
No photographer. Well, there will be a photographer, maybe even two. Plus I expect everyone that comes to bring their camera so we can get a diversified look at things and print the ones we like to put in an album.
No gift registry. Nope. We want and need money. If everyone we expect to come gives us $60 it should be enough to mostly off set cost... mostly, I think. But that includes children and the unemployed so... yeah, not happening.
No save the dates, no boring ol' paper invitations. No unity candle, or anything of the sort. No stuffy formal attire. --EDIT: Kind of stuffy formal attire... John decided he wanted a 3 piece suit, and my dress is all kinds of formal --
Honestly we just want the people that come to have fun. We're only inviting those we love, not blanket inviting everyone. I want it to have the feel of any of the parties we have. Although with better food, and hopefully a lot less drunken drama. It seems silly that people spend on average 24 thousand dollars to create a day that no one will remember. Spending thousands on a dress to wear once. Getting things you'll never use again.
We're not planning a tens of thousands of dollars extravaganza. The three thousand and some change is more than we can afford.
No one is giving me away. Last time I checked I was the master of my own destiny, yes?
No father figure walking me down the aisle. This seems to be tied to arranged marriages or something... I'm not sure and don't care to research. I'm getting married to John and it seems silly to have anyone else walk me down the aisle. --EDIT: Grandma's walking me down the aisle, although...she's not much of a 'father' figure now is she?--
No veil. This tradition seems to be fading pretty fast anyway across the board. --EDIT: Yeah.. I did end up getting a veil. I can't help it, sometimes I'm just a girl! --
No aisle runner, no ring bearer, no ushers, no 'his side' vs. 'her side.' Seriously... we don't have large enough family coming to count and John doesn't really have any... so it seems pointless. The whole processional bit is so overdone. Although we will have a flower girl, because every girl wants to be a flower girl so I decided to make that wish come true.
Not walking down the aisle to 'here comes the bride' or other 'classical' piece of music. I'm not telling you what I'm walking to though - you'll know it when you hear it.
Traditional vows. My grandpa is officiating the ceremony, and we're writing our own vows... should be fun!
No garter toss / bouquet toss. Because, really - we hardly have any totally single friends, it's awkward if you're in a relationship and catch one because then it's like ha ha you're next, and I'm not going to throw a bouquet to two people, lol. -- EDIT: We were told we just 'had' to do these. So... apparently we are... --
No cake cutting. I don't know if this will be totally cut out, but I'm kind of thinking it should. Dessert comes with the meals we're ordering anyway and I don't like all that... attention. Saves $ too. -- EDIT: We are doing the cake cutting on a cake just for John and I --
No photographer. Well, there will be a photographer, maybe even two. Plus I expect everyone that comes to bring their camera so we can get a diversified look at things and print the ones we like to put in an album.
No gift registry. Nope. We want and need money. If everyone we expect to come gives us $60 it should be enough to mostly off set cost... mostly, I think. But that includes children and the unemployed so... yeah, not happening.
No save the dates, no boring ol' paper invitations. No unity candle, or anything of the sort. No stuffy formal attire. --EDIT: Kind of stuffy formal attire... John decided he wanted a 3 piece suit, and my dress is all kinds of formal --
Honestly we just want the people that come to have fun. We're only inviting those we love, not blanket inviting everyone. I want it to have the feel of any of the parties we have. Although with better food, and hopefully a lot less drunken drama. It seems silly that people spend on average 24 thousand dollars to create a day that no one will remember. Spending thousands on a dress to wear once. Getting things you'll never use again.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Giant Boobs
Yes, it's official, I now have the biggest boobs ever. As far as I can tell, I haven't grown anywhere else, and may have even lost inches elsewhere. However, now my boobs are so large that my lovely wedding dress I purchased is no longer going to zip over them. I guess that's what you get for buying a dress that fits perfectly.
So I've posted the dress for sale on Craigslist. I'm hoping that it will get some attention, I want to sell it so I can get a new one. I spent all day yesterday researching, and have a few dresses I really like that are close to half off what I paid for my dress. If nothing else, I can get my dress for $80 in a bigger size and pocket the difference (since I fail at shopping and all).
The wedding is getting super close! We've finally started to start to work on invitations. I've got a couple people I've asked to work on photography, but I'm definitely thinking that I want Colleen to do it. For some reason when going down the guest list for photographer options I totally forgot about her. I remembered though! I don't know if she'll want to do it though... but I figure if she does the shots will be a lot less blah and a lot more sexy and fluid than if I go with the family friend who's a photographer. I'm planning on asking everyone to bring their cameras anyway so we'll have lots of coverage.
I've instructed my grandpa to get ordained - and he told me he'd find a church within a month. John's got a plan for the reception (I think). There aren't green linens available in anything other than napkins - so I think I'm leaning towards an ivory and red blend. Like red going one way diagonally, then ivory on top in the other direction. Candles + roses = ta-da!
Ceremony wise we need to figure out how many people are coming ASAP so we can book chairs. I don't think it'll be more than 50. Then we can also tell the caterers, since our dishes aren't cheap - it'll be nice to know how much we're shelling out as soon as we can.
This wedding stuff is expensive! With getting a new dress, or even just altering the one I have... wedding bands, veil, under the dress stuffs, shoes, makeup, John's clothes, the arch, flowers for bouquets, boutineers, decoration, tulling, attendant gifts, invitations, chairs, catering, possibly a permit (Note to self: Check on that!), hotel room for the night of - and possibly the night before... there's SO much output. I don't think we're going to be able to afford a honeymoon :(
Good thing we're asking for money as presents. If people give us $50 a piece we might be able to offset the cost of the wedding. Still no honeymoon, but it'll be like people paid for themselves to enjoy the food and such. Still, most of our guests don't have $50 to spare so... I don't know.
I'm thinking of having John take out a loan to pay for the wedding... but I really don't want to. However, as it looks right now - we're not going to be able to afford anything other than the food for people. Le sigh.
So I've posted the dress for sale on Craigslist. I'm hoping that it will get some attention, I want to sell it so I can get a new one. I spent all day yesterday researching, and have a few dresses I really like that are close to half off what I paid for my dress. If nothing else, I can get my dress for $80 in a bigger size and pocket the difference (since I fail at shopping and all).
The wedding is getting super close! We've finally started to start to work on invitations. I've got a couple people I've asked to work on photography, but I'm definitely thinking that I want Colleen to do it. For some reason when going down the guest list for photographer options I totally forgot about her. I remembered though! I don't know if she'll want to do it though... but I figure if she does the shots will be a lot less blah and a lot more sexy and fluid than if I go with the family friend who's a photographer. I'm planning on asking everyone to bring their cameras anyway so we'll have lots of coverage.
I've instructed my grandpa to get ordained - and he told me he'd find a church within a month. John's got a plan for the reception (I think). There aren't green linens available in anything other than napkins - so I think I'm leaning towards an ivory and red blend. Like red going one way diagonally, then ivory on top in the other direction. Candles + roses = ta-da!
Ceremony wise we need to figure out how many people are coming ASAP so we can book chairs. I don't think it'll be more than 50. Then we can also tell the caterers, since our dishes aren't cheap - it'll be nice to know how much we're shelling out as soon as we can.
This wedding stuff is expensive! With getting a new dress, or even just altering the one I have... wedding bands, veil, under the dress stuffs, shoes, makeup, John's clothes, the arch, flowers for bouquets, boutineers, decoration, tulling, attendant gifts, invitations, chairs, catering, possibly a permit (Note to self: Check on that!), hotel room for the night of - and possibly the night before... there's SO much output. I don't think we're going to be able to afford a honeymoon :(
Good thing we're asking for money as presents. If people give us $50 a piece we might be able to offset the cost of the wedding. Still no honeymoon, but it'll be like people paid for themselves to enjoy the food and such. Still, most of our guests don't have $50 to spare so... I don't know.
I'm thinking of having John take out a loan to pay for the wedding... but I really don't want to. However, as it looks right now - we're not going to be able to afford anything other than the food for people. Le sigh.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
We're getting there... 201 Days
In 201 days, I will be joined officially with the love of my life. I can't wait! I have completely fallen in love with birdcage veils. They're fabulously feminine and edgy with a touch of retro flare. I think they'll work if I decide to chop off all my hair like I've got the itch to do.
I'm thinking of doing little bundles of cherry blossoms in vases, with the candles and flower petals (I'm thinking yellows maybe some pinks), and then the favors all around. They'll all be roughly the same height. Cherry blossoms have the colors I love -pinks and browns, with a little Asian fusion feel.
We've got the place semi-booked, we just have to give them a 25% deposit - shouldn't be too big of a deal. I've got my lovely bridesmaids, my dress, and lots of fun ideas for hair and such. Getting ideas together for centerpieces and a few ideas for fun favors together. I've been working on the playlist, I really need help finding some fun dance songs but absolutely no one wants to help me for some reason.
Did I mention we've got our cake picked out as well? I don't remember and am too lazy to check. Strawberries on top of pound cake. Just a small one, as everyone will get their desserts with meal. As soon as we get the deposit in we're going to make our invitations. I plan on getting my veil soon, and finding a fabulous headpiece to go with it. I've already got the earrings and necklace I'm wearing, I want to find some cool anklets or something as well. I need to get tan, and touch up my tattoos. Other than that and a bunch of tiny details things are starting to fall together. Now I just need to find large sums of money from somewhere...
Friday, December 25, 2009
Location
Tomorrow John, my grandma and myself are going to see all we need to do to make McMenamin's Sandtrap work for us. Yay! I'm sure we'll go over the menu - which I kind of already have picked out, and all the things that need to happen to make the ceremony of my dreams (the part of the wedding I actually care about) a reality.
In other news, I've decided that red should be implemented a bit more. I am, after all, getting married to a half Chinese man. There aren't too many traditional Chinese things we can implement besides color and putting red envelopes for money in the reception locale because of the fact that he doesn't have a family. Hm, I wonder if Lithuanians have cool customs? So I figure I'll throw red into the bouquets, and we'll do the money drop box with double happiness symbol and red envelopes to implement a smidgen of that side of him.
My grandfather agreed to be our officiant, so that's fantastic, we just need to do the ordaining part of that. My grandma knows what kind of cake we're having - just a small one for John and I since dessert comes with the catering plan. Check check and check! We're almost back on track. Will be once we book Sandtrap officially. Yay!
... now what?
In other news, I've decided that red should be implemented a bit more. I am, after all, getting married to a half Chinese man. There aren't too many traditional Chinese things we can implement besides color and putting red envelopes for money in the reception locale because of the fact that he doesn't have a family. Hm, I wonder if Lithuanians have cool customs? So I figure I'll throw red into the bouquets, and we'll do the money drop box with double happiness symbol and red envelopes to implement a smidgen of that side of him.
My grandfather agreed to be our officiant, so that's fantastic, we just need to do the ordaining part of that. My grandma knows what kind of cake we're having - just a small one for John and I since dessert comes with the catering plan. Check check and check! We're almost back on track. Will be once we book Sandtrap officially. Yay!
... now what?
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Dilemma
I don't really care too terribly much about the reception location. I just want my perfect ceremony on the beach and for lots of gorgeous pictures to be taken and to have music and dancing and fun times. John wants to have a coursed meal for all our friends. So we know that the event has to be catered. Beyond that... it's pretty open. We have three main options as of right now.
The Loft: PICTURES It's open and large - space for 250. Due to our date, it's going to be $500 to rent for the whole day. Catering would be extra on top of this, as would decorations. There aren't any beaches close by so ceremony would have to be set somewhere driving's distance away.
Mcmenamin's SandTrap: PICTURES Same wooden vibe as the Loft, but with McMenamin's style decorations. Location is free with a $2,000 catering minimum. We would need to provide centerpieces and any additional decorations we felt necessary. Beach is fairly close by.
Cannon Beach Community Hall: PICTURES Wooden interior, much like the other two - fireplace (not that it'll be used in July). $600 to rent for whole day. Catering and all decorations would need to be provided by us. Easy beach access.
So, which should it be?
The Loft: PICTURES It's open and large - space for 250. Due to our date, it's going to be $500 to rent for the whole day. Catering would be extra on top of this, as would decorations. There aren't any beaches close by so ceremony would have to be set somewhere driving's distance away.
Mcmenamin's SandTrap: PICTURES Same wooden vibe as the Loft, but with McMenamin's style decorations. Location is free with a $2,000 catering minimum. We would need to provide centerpieces and any additional decorations we felt necessary. Beach is fairly close by.
Cannon Beach Community Hall: PICTURES Wooden interior, much like the other two - fireplace (not that it'll be used in July). $600 to rent for whole day. Catering and all decorations would need to be provided by us. Easy beach access.
So, which should it be?
Bridal Party
Hurray! I now will have Brittany, Azurell, and Tiffany with me on the big day. I love each of you three girls more than I could ever express and you've each helped me grow, thrive, and love as much as possible. I cannot express how lucky I am to have you three wonderful and diverse women in my life and I cherish each and every one of you.
Love!
Love!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Yay Az!
I've been pestering Johnathan to figure out what he's doing for his best man / groomsmen situation. He wants Corey, and maybe Nate/Mouse but thinks Corey will fail (because he will....just sayin') and doesn't want to make either Nate or Mouse best man and is so confused.
I, on the other hand have been waiting for him to make up his mind so I can ask my bridesmaids to be my bridesmaids before it's ridiculously late. John finally said to pick mine and then he'll follow. So I asked Azurell, my dearest to be a bridesmaid and she said yes. Hurray! I am uncertain as to whether I should ask Tiffany as well yet or not. I should figure this out, huh?
Anyway, I am super excited that Az is going to be there with me. Keeping me sane and alive with her Azness. All is well. (Except that we're crazy far behind.
I, on the other hand have been waiting for him to make up his mind so I can ask my bridesmaids to be my bridesmaids before it's ridiculously late. John finally said to pick mine and then he'll follow. So I asked Azurell, my dearest to be a bridesmaid and she said yes. Hurray! I am uncertain as to whether I should ask Tiffany as well yet or not. I should figure this out, huh?
Anyway, I am super excited that Az is going to be there with me. Keeping me sane and alive with her Azness. All is well. (Except that we're crazy far behind.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Grand Lodge
McMenamin's resorts/restaurants/etc. are super well priced places to hold receptions/ceremonies. We went and checked out some places at the Grand Lodge in Forest Grove yesterday. They range from 1,000-1,500 minimums. You pay that much, the location is free. We'd definitely exceed that. The Children's cottage there was really cool, lots of nooks and crannies to go hide and play in, plus for an 1,800 minimum you get this entire huge building. Drinks, food, magic. Hurray! The ceremony could be held at another location on grounds, like the grove, or underneath the giant ceders outside the Children's cottage.
I really liked the space, McMenamin's has a great menu for catering, and the price just can't be beat. The Children's cottage had a pretty room that used to be a library right when you walk in. It's got a fireplace, and plenty of room for all our guests.
John hated it, thought it was too compartmented and cramped.
Well, that did that. Onwards and upwards!
We've still got the community hall in Cannon Beach - which has real promise. Apparently Chinook Winds has a cool set up... I'm checking that out... Now.
I really liked the space, McMenamin's has a great menu for catering, and the price just can't be beat. The Children's cottage had a pretty room that used to be a library right when you walk in. It's got a fireplace, and plenty of room for all our guests.
John hated it, thought it was too compartmented and cramped.
Well, that did that. Onwards and upwards!
We've still got the community hall in Cannon Beach - which has real promise. Apparently Chinook Winds has a cool set up... I'm checking that out... Now.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
More locations!
Checked out McMenamin's Sand Trap today, or this evening rather. It's got the quaint rustic charm that the Loft had with the classic McMenamin's flair that I do love. The site overlooks the green hills of the golf course and is within walking distance to a fairly secluded beach.
Downside to the locale is that we do have to go with their catering to get the room covered, it's a $2,000 minimum. No problem with that really - we'll be able to do full course salad, meal, desserts with that in mind. It is an 18% gratuity as well so really it's $2360.
They do really cover everything there, including ceremony if we wanted. However, if we're not going to have it on the beach like I want - I'd rather do something closer.
Which brings us to the Grand Lodge in Forest Grove which we'll be checking out sometime this week. They have some pretty outside spaces as well which would work... Their minimums are $1,000 and $1,500 depending on the space. Definitely a cash saver, so we'll see.
Downside to the locale is that we do have to go with their catering to get the room covered, it's a $2,000 minimum. No problem with that really - we'll be able to do full course salad, meal, desserts with that in mind. It is an 18% gratuity as well so really it's $2360.
They do really cover everything there, including ceremony if we wanted. However, if we're not going to have it on the beach like I want - I'd rather do something closer.
Which brings us to the Grand Lodge in Forest Grove which we'll be checking out sometime this week. They have some pretty outside spaces as well which would work... Their minimums are $1,000 and $1,500 depending on the space. Definitely a cash saver, so we'll see.
Behind!
As on 10/22/09 we have yet to complete these items supposed to be completed nine months before the big day... they're kind of important ones....
1) Get everyone's address that's invited.
2) Reserve reception site.
3) Book officiant
4) Book Caterer
5) Send save the dates
6) Buy wedding accessories
All but that last one definitely should be done...
We are going to look at reception locations as soon as John gets out of shower.
Now I see why people hire wedding planners!
1) Get everyone's address that's invited.
2) Reserve reception site.
3) Book officiant
4) Book Caterer
5) Send save the dates
6) Buy wedding accessories
All but that last one definitely should be done...
We are going to look at reception locations as soon as John gets out of shower.
Now I see why people hire wedding planners!
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Location Location Location
Johnathan and I went to Astoria today to look at locations to host our wedding reception. There aren't really any beachy beaches there, but we did see some pretty things.
The Loft: Situated right on the water, next to... some bridge it was really pretty. Big wooden beams and skylights. There is a large amount of potential to turn this place into...whatever we want it to be. It's quite large for the price and there's a dressing room and kitchen on site. We'd have to do catering though it seems -- or get preprepared trays from a grocery store. I'm totally okay with doing that.
Hotel Elliot: Cheaper by half, this place had a lot of stairs and a weird smell. It was in town with very limited parking. The areas themselves were pretty and a lot more intimate than the expanse of the Loft...but we'll pass.
I still want to look at one location in Cannon Beach that has a fire-place and such. John really loves the Loft, but I'm not sure where we would have the ceremony if we did the reception there.
Also, I have now began to doubt the wedding dress. I think I need to go put it on again. I mean, when I looked at myself with it on (once we beat the zipper) it was like - yes please. Now after looking at wedding things and seeing all these long flowy dresses I'm starting to doubt myself. I don't know...
There are pictures and videos to come for the events of today. To be posted on our wedding site that is currently being constructed.
UPDATE: So... we're poor and don't have cash to pay for hosting so the wedding site no longer exists.
The Loft: Situated right on the water, next to... some bridge it was really pretty. Big wooden beams and skylights. There is a large amount of potential to turn this place into...whatever we want it to be. It's quite large for the price and there's a dressing room and kitchen on site. We'd have to do catering though it seems -- or get preprepared trays from a grocery store. I'm totally okay with doing that.
Hotel Elliot: Cheaper by half, this place had a lot of stairs and a weird smell. It was in town with very limited parking. The areas themselves were pretty and a lot more intimate than the expanse of the Loft...but we'll pass.
I still want to look at one location in Cannon Beach that has a fire-place and such. John really loves the Loft, but I'm not sure where we would have the ceremony if we did the reception there.
Also, I have now began to doubt the wedding dress. I think I need to go put it on again. I mean, when I looked at myself with it on (once we beat the zipper) it was like - yes please. Now after looking at wedding things and seeing all these long flowy dresses I'm starting to doubt myself. I don't know...
There are pictures and videos to come for the events of today. To be posted on our wedding site that is currently being constructed.
UPDATE: So... we're poor and don't have cash to pay for hosting so the wedding site no longer exists.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Wow.
Tonight I....
Got a photographer, Brook.
Got a videographer, Ike.
Had John's Bachelor party semi-planned.
Had the farewell from reception planned -- it's fantastic.
Realized I am blessed.
Got a photographer, Brook.
Got a videographer, Ike.
Had John's Bachelor party semi-planned.
Had the farewell from reception planned -- it's fantastic.
Realized I am blessed.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
The Dress
We went to David's Bridal, and to Macy's, Nordstroms, and everywhere in between. We went to everywhere we could think of that might sell dresses in general. I don't know how many dresses we tried on, but it felt like it was in the hundreds. Finally though, I found the dress. It fits wonderfully, it's lacy and glittery and spectacular. Got it from emporio bridal in Washington Square. It's... yeah, wonderful.
Only downside... I was trying to find a link to post here so you could look at on a model...and when I put in the designer and the product number I found the same dress I got for nearly 90 dollars cheaper... in addition, I bet brand new the zipper's a lot more considerate than it is on the dress I got. Yeah, and that's what I get I suppose. I totally could have wrote down the info and looked it up when I got home to be sure I got the best deal. I always end up doing things like that. It's aggravating as all hell. I would totally return it and buy the one online too... except that for some reason bridal shops make their return policy as there isn't one... So there's nothing I can do about it. Grumble grumble. Oh well, at least I have a wonderful dress to wear on a wonderful day. And I had a great time with my Maid of Honor in finding it.
Only downside... I was trying to find a link to post here so you could look at on a model...and when I put in the designer and the product number I found the same dress I got for nearly 90 dollars cheaper... in addition, I bet brand new the zipper's a lot more considerate than it is on the dress I got. Yeah, and that's what I get I suppose. I totally could have wrote down the info and looked it up when I got home to be sure I got the best deal. I always end up doing things like that. It's aggravating as all hell. I would totally return it and buy the one online too... except that for some reason bridal shops make their return policy as there isn't one... So there's nothing I can do about it. Grumble grumble. Oh well, at least I have a wonderful dress to wear on a wonderful day. And I had a great time with my Maid of Honor in finding it.
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