I have jobs and thinking about what I want to do with my life on my mind, but thought it wouldn't be appropriate to post about it here. That's when I realized how much marriage will effect my job and work, and how much work could effect my marriage.
Right now I am working in what I consider to be a dead-end job. I've only been here for almost 2 years, yet besides the owner of the company and the HR/controller/IT guy (neither of which gets a paycheck from this company) I've been here the longest. This job has just about nothing to do with what I went to school for (not that I know what I would do with my degree), and is both boring and hectic. Basically, I don't want to be here forever.
But I have health insurance. And a regular paycheck (no matter how small it is...). I'm not ready to lose those things. I also am trying to plan a wedding here, and keep my personal life together, so a big upheaval in my job situation, between looking for a new one and learning a new one, is not ideal. So here I am. Yes, I have a job, which is fantastic.
Once we're married, though, I have a feeling I will be seriously reconsidering my employment status. I might leave a month before the wedding, just to get all the last minute things taken care of. And then after the wedding I can be on Dino's health insurance! He makes enough that we could make it by for a bit, until I found something better.
But then, what do I want to do? Lately my number one thought is baking. If there were some way I could sell my baked goods, that would be fantastic. State law makes it a little complicated and expensive to sell food made in your home, but it is an option. I could also dedicate more time to crafty things, perhaps turning them into something to sell as well. I wouldn't make hardly anything, I believe, but at least it would be something.
Dino is supportive of me finding something better for me to do. He does NOT want me to just quit and sit around watching TV all the time, which makes sense! I hope I'd get bored of that pretty quickly, and need to find something! He also wants me to find a way to work from home if I need to. I am open to the idea of getting a part time office job (or maybe something else! Not sure I could be on my feet all day, I seem to be developing some arthritis in my feet already... I think I'm too young for that! But maybe retail or something if need be) and then baking and crafting the rest of the day. In fact, that would be fabulous.
So there is another reason I am getting anxious to just get married - health insurance and a complete change in my job situation! Can't wait!
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
So Thankful!
I really, truly, am feeling like the luckiest person ever. I mean, besides my job (which I hate and have no idea what I'd rather be doing... oh the stress!), everything in my life is so great.
- I have the most wonderful fiance, who says sweet things like "I like to be close to you" and other such things.
- My family is amazing and supportive, and I can't imagine life without them.
- My mom is nearly done with her chemo treatments, which is enough to be thankful for! Only 2 more treatments, 2 more weeks!
- I'm thankful my dad and brother are around to take care of her.
- I'm thankful that when our roof was leaking, and basement started forming puddles, I could not only rely on Dino but also my dad to make me feel better about the situation and stop freaking out. And I'm thankful that the roofing company is fixing it and also has to pay for our drywall to be replaced! If a house issue comes up, it sure is nice to not be responsible for the cost.
- I am so thankful that I am for the most part healthy, and have a warm home to live in.
- I'm also thankful the utility company is fixing the leaky pipe in our yard, and that yet again it is not our expense since it is on their side of the meter!
One of the biggest things I am thankful for, and this is somewhat wedding related, is that I am marrying into the best family. I am so grateful for that, and for them! We spent last weekend at his parents' house, and had thanksgiving with them. They are beyond wonderful by being so flexible with celebrating holidays; we discussed Christmas plans as well, and they are okay with us celebrating early with them for that as well. I feel a little bad that my family is hogging us for the actual days, but it almost works out better this way.
They are also just wonderful people. I guess his parents had talked about not being those demanding in-laws that get a bad rap. They couldn't be further from that! They are not too involved, don't make any crazy demands or guest list changes or anything, and basically are more than happy to just let us do our thing and help out where they can. Seriously, I don't think I could ask for better in-laws.
My FMIL is also taking this rehearsal dinner thing and totally running with it! Unfortunately, my #1 choice and reason for thinking of food trucks, Molly Moons, is not sure they will be doing private parties next year. WHY?!?! It's like, guaranteed money! I want to pay you! Argh. But they won't know for sure until the spring, so we just have to sit tight, or make other plans. So I'm not sure what we want to do, but I'm kind of okay letting her make those decisions.
They are also letting us tag along on another trip to Hawaii next year, after the wedding! It'll be like a second honeymoon, but with his family... Not as awkward as it sounds! So exciting! Just like the trip this year, when we got engaged.
Anyway, on the eve of Thanksgiving, I wanted to take a moment to mention how lucky and grateful I am for everyone and everything in my life. When I was little, more than anything I always said I wanted to be HAPPY when I grew up, and I think I am well on my way to that goal!
Friday, November 16, 2012
Losing steam...
Exhibit A: I opened this post about a half hour ago, and didn't write a word!
I don't know what is going on, but I just don't feel motivated to get things finished! Looking at our to-do list, I'm getting a little worried. There are a LOT of things on there, and only 3 are marked "Done." To be fair, though, I didn't add some things that are already finished in steps, like I have added some future projects, and some things we don't need to worry about at all, like the officiant. But this month, according to my to-do list, we need to book a caterer, buy my dress, interview/research DJs, block hotel rooms, and register. Yikes, those are big things, and the month is already half over!
We did attend another tasting event last night for a caterer. It was fun, again, but I honestly didn't like the food nearly as much as the last one - at this one most of the food was cold already, and a lot of it tasted sweet. The last one had killer short ribs, roasted veggies and mashed potatoes, this one had tasty cheese selections, salmon (cooked on individual little cedar pieces! So cute!) and apparently really good marinated cold veggies. I guess it might depend on price a little, though, and I haven't gotten a quote from the one last night yet. Dino told me he doesn't care too much about the caterer, since he doesn't think we'll be eating too much on the day, but it is important to me that we serve our family and friends really good food.
I applied to Randy to the Rescue, as they are coming to our city soon. They want me to make a video application, and I'm nervous to do so - do I really want to put my dress search on national tv?!?! Yikes. But it might help? I've been dragging my feet in general, keep making plans to go try on dresses, but don't follow through. Boo. I REALLY need to, though! It's to the point where I almost just want to just go with the Pronovias dress I liked, just to get that item checked off the list. I just would hate to have regret.
We haven't even STARTED looking at DJs, although I did kind of contact one awhile ago. Prices are just so big, and I don't even know what I'm looking for, really...
We haven't contacted the hotel, yet, to block rooms. Probably ought to do so!
The one thing we have done this month is REGISTER!!! Last weekend! We wandered around Macy's and picked out some things we like (and I had already started an amazon registry, but refined it a lot). I hate all of the checklists everywhere provides, though. You cannot convince me we need fine china or serving things or new silverware. I have like, 3 packs of the same silverware already, so we're fine there. We aren't fancy. And we have a lot of things already. Like, I considered not registering for a Le Creuset dutch oven because I have a Martha Stewart one that works just fine. (But I did! I've always longed for one... and this one would be blue, whereas the current one I have is red, so... Totally necessary...). We did also register for some luggage, but holy cow is that expensive. So many things on our registries are crazy expensive. Sorry guests!
Registering wasn't too bad, though. We had fun envisioning our future stuff, but it is also a little stressful picking out things you might have for the REST OF YOUR LIFE. Deciding between Victorinox and Wustof and Henkles knives was so hard. We went with Henkles because the handles felt the best and they weren't as shockingly expensive, but I really really want Wustof. I'm still not sure we need a new knife set, we already have some nicer knives, and I would love to just add a few more pieces to make our own custom set. Dino is a little bit stuck on needing a set, though. Maybe I'll take another look, and present my case again...
Man, there is so much left to do. I'm ready for it all to be done for me, so I can think about the details and other little things. Instead, I'm finding myself caught up on things I don't need to think about at all for another few months. I need to keep it going, and get back into the decision making!
I don't know what is going on, but I just don't feel motivated to get things finished! Looking at our to-do list, I'm getting a little worried. There are a LOT of things on there, and only 3 are marked "Done." To be fair, though, I didn't add some things that are already finished in steps, like I have added some future projects, and some things we don't need to worry about at all, like the officiant. But this month, according to my to-do list, we need to book a caterer, buy my dress, interview/research DJs, block hotel rooms, and register. Yikes, those are big things, and the month is already half over!
We did attend another tasting event last night for a caterer. It was fun, again, but I honestly didn't like the food nearly as much as the last one - at this one most of the food was cold already, and a lot of it tasted sweet. The last one had killer short ribs, roasted veggies and mashed potatoes, this one had tasty cheese selections, salmon (cooked on individual little cedar pieces! So cute!) and apparently really good marinated cold veggies. I guess it might depend on price a little, though, and I haven't gotten a quote from the one last night yet. Dino told me he doesn't care too much about the caterer, since he doesn't think we'll be eating too much on the day, but it is important to me that we serve our family and friends really good food.
I applied to Randy to the Rescue, as they are coming to our city soon. They want me to make a video application, and I'm nervous to do so - do I really want to put my dress search on national tv?!?! Yikes. But it might help? I've been dragging my feet in general, keep making plans to go try on dresses, but don't follow through. Boo. I REALLY need to, though! It's to the point where I almost just want to just go with the Pronovias dress I liked, just to get that item checked off the list. I just would hate to have regret.
We haven't even STARTED looking at DJs, although I did kind of contact one awhile ago. Prices are just so big, and I don't even know what I'm looking for, really...
We haven't contacted the hotel, yet, to block rooms. Probably ought to do so!
The one thing we have done this month is REGISTER!!! Last weekend! We wandered around Macy's and picked out some things we like (and I had already started an amazon registry, but refined it a lot). I hate all of the checklists everywhere provides, though. You cannot convince me we need fine china or serving things or new silverware. I have like, 3 packs of the same silverware already, so we're fine there. We aren't fancy. And we have a lot of things already. Like, I considered not registering for a Le Creuset dutch oven because I have a Martha Stewart one that works just fine. (But I did! I've always longed for one... and this one would be blue, whereas the current one I have is red, so... Totally necessary...). We did also register for some luggage, but holy cow is that expensive. So many things on our registries are crazy expensive. Sorry guests!
Registering wasn't too bad, though. We had fun envisioning our future stuff, but it is also a little stressful picking out things you might have for the REST OF YOUR LIFE. Deciding between Victorinox and Wustof and Henkles knives was so hard. We went with Henkles because the handles felt the best and they weren't as shockingly expensive, but I really really want Wustof. I'm still not sure we need a new knife set, we already have some nicer knives, and I would love to just add a few more pieces to make our own custom set. Dino is a little bit stuck on needing a set, though. Maybe I'll take another look, and present my case again...
Man, there is so much left to do. I'm ready for it all to be done for me, so I can think about the details and other little things. Instead, I'm finding myself caught up on things I don't need to think about at all for another few months. I need to keep it going, and get back into the decision making!
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Let's Just be MARRIED Already!
Poor Dino. He puts up with a lot. He wanted us to be married by now, and the fact that I decided we should wait over a year is probably killing him. He's told me on many occasions that he just wants to be married already!
It's weird, though, to think about the timing. We got to arbitrarily pick a day that we would start our married life together. I wanted enough time to plan without stressing out (ha!), and we both wanted to be outside for a portion so the summer was ideal. A weekend made the most sense for our friends and family. Then we just picked a day we thought sounded good, and voila! Our wedding date, future anniversary date, and one of the most special days of our lives was decided!
Now I'm wondering if we should have moved the day closer to our engagement. It would definitely not suck to be married right now. I'm getting to the point where I'm ready to just BE MARRIED. It's not like all that much will change, right? I know some people say you feel different, but we're already living together, we're already acting as a support system for each other, and we're already taking care of each other. We won't know each other any better, presumably, and we won't change who we are, other than wearing a ring on a daily basis (and I already do that, so it'd just be another ring!), and my last name will change. We're not going to start trying to have kids anytime soon, even (not until after the next World Cup!). The #1 thing I'm looking forward to is being able to be on his health insurance - how romantic!
So I do want a wedding, and I would always regret it if we skipped that step, but I'm ready for it to be here already. I'm tired of making decisions and thinking about little details that honestly won't impact the day or our marriage much at all! I'm tired of thinking about money and budgets and worrying about who to invite.
I know this is just a moment of overwhelmed-ness, and that I'll get over it and back into the excitement soon, but for right now, I'm ready to just be married.
In the end, I am actually incredibly thankful that we picked a day next summer. I'm glad I have the time to stop and think about this stuff, and had the time to wrap my head around this event. But more than anything, I'm glad we are waiting for my mom. When we picked the day, we didn't know about her cancer. She's been fighting so hard lately, and it's taken a toll on her in so many ways, so I am glad she will get some time to fight, rest, and recover before all the wedding stuff rolls around. I can focus more of my time on her and trying to be there for her because I do have this time. I want her to be able to enjoy our wedding, without her health making it more difficult. I know she is looking forward to it, and I like to think that having the wedding coming up is just a little extra something good to think about.
Maybe the main reason I am ready to just be married already is because I am so impatient!
It's weird, though, to think about the timing. We got to arbitrarily pick a day that we would start our married life together. I wanted enough time to plan without stressing out (ha!), and we both wanted to be outside for a portion so the summer was ideal. A weekend made the most sense for our friends and family. Then we just picked a day we thought sounded good, and voila! Our wedding date, future anniversary date, and one of the most special days of our lives was decided!
Now I'm wondering if we should have moved the day closer to our engagement. It would definitely not suck to be married right now. I'm getting to the point where I'm ready to just BE MARRIED. It's not like all that much will change, right? I know some people say you feel different, but we're already living together, we're already acting as a support system for each other, and we're already taking care of each other. We won't know each other any better, presumably, and we won't change who we are, other than wearing a ring on a daily basis (and I already do that, so it'd just be another ring!), and my last name will change. We're not going to start trying to have kids anytime soon, even (not until after the next World Cup!). The #1 thing I'm looking forward to is being able to be on his health insurance - how romantic!
So I do want a wedding, and I would always regret it if we skipped that step, but I'm ready for it to be here already. I'm tired of making decisions and thinking about little details that honestly won't impact the day or our marriage much at all! I'm tired of thinking about money and budgets and worrying about who to invite.
I know this is just a moment of overwhelmed-ness, and that I'll get over it and back into the excitement soon, but for right now, I'm ready to just be married.
In the end, I am actually incredibly thankful that we picked a day next summer. I'm glad I have the time to stop and think about this stuff, and had the time to wrap my head around this event. But more than anything, I'm glad we are waiting for my mom. When we picked the day, we didn't know about her cancer. She's been fighting so hard lately, and it's taken a toll on her in so many ways, so I am glad she will get some time to fight, rest, and recover before all the wedding stuff rolls around. I can focus more of my time on her and trying to be there for her because I do have this time. I want her to be able to enjoy our wedding, without her health making it more difficult. I know she is looking forward to it, and I like to think that having the wedding coming up is just a little extra something good to think about.
Maybe the main reason I am ready to just be married already is because I am so impatient!
Friday, October 5, 2012
Smells Like Love!
Another wedding purchase made, debated, questioned, and reaffirmed!
It may be a silly little detail to some, but I've always loved the idea of having a "Wedding Day Purfume," one that will take you back to that day whenever you smell it, and can be used for romantic, special occasions afterwards. I always thought (for like, 2 or 3 years!) I would go with one scent in particular after smelling a sample, and had refrained buying it because I wanted to wait until I was engaged and actually planning to make that purchase.
That fragrance was FlowerbyKenzo. Sweet, light, and floral, it is summery, pleasant, and I loved how it smelled on my skin. I finally made a trip to Sephora on a Saturday to give it another try, and potentially buy it, and while I was there another bottle caught my eye, and I happened to try a spray on my right wrist, with FlowerbyKenzo on the left wrist. Hm. I couldn't stop smelling my right wrist all afternoon, and walked out of the store having not made a purchase.
On Monday, I couldn't handle it, I had to go try this random find again, but I couldn't remember the name for the life of me! I searched the Sephora website, hoping the look of the bottle would jog my memory. I remembered a pink, angular bottle, and at the store I was at it was sitting kind of on its side. None of the pictures looked like that! So that evening, after work, I went to a different Sephora location, and tried to explain what I was looking for. I think the sales associate thought I was a little crazy, but tried to help me! But I mostly had to smell to find it, so I worked my way across their fragrance wall, when I found it!
Here it is! Flowerbomb by Victor&Rolf. I bought it that day, and sprayed a sample on my wrist again to make sure it was the one. Well, I got home, let Dino smell my wrist, and he thought it smelled "Baby-Powdery," which I took as a bad sign. I had some FlowerbyKenzo samples, and a KenzoAmour sample, so I sprayed those on, and was even more confused. What to do!
So this last weekend, we went back. I sprayed FlowerbyKenzo on one wrist, Flowerbomb on the other, and together we decided the Flowerbomb won! So I kept my previous purchase, opened it, and then set it aside for the wedding day. I hope I can resist sneaking smells now and again, it is just beautiful. Light but rich, floral and clean, kind of silky and just makes me happy.
One more decision down!
It may be a silly little detail to some, but I've always loved the idea of having a "Wedding Day Purfume," one that will take you back to that day whenever you smell it, and can be used for romantic, special occasions afterwards. I always thought (for like, 2 or 3 years!) I would go with one scent in particular after smelling a sample, and had refrained buying it because I wanted to wait until I was engaged and actually planning to make that purchase.
Image from Sephora.com
That fragrance was FlowerbyKenzo. Sweet, light, and floral, it is summery, pleasant, and I loved how it smelled on my skin. I finally made a trip to Sephora on a Saturday to give it another try, and potentially buy it, and while I was there another bottle caught my eye, and I happened to try a spray on my right wrist, with FlowerbyKenzo on the left wrist. Hm. I couldn't stop smelling my right wrist all afternoon, and walked out of the store having not made a purchase.
On Monday, I couldn't handle it, I had to go try this random find again, but I couldn't remember the name for the life of me! I searched the Sephora website, hoping the look of the bottle would jog my memory. I remembered a pink, angular bottle, and at the store I was at it was sitting kind of on its side. None of the pictures looked like that! So that evening, after work, I went to a different Sephora location, and tried to explain what I was looking for. I think the sales associate thought I was a little crazy, but tried to help me! But I mostly had to smell to find it, so I worked my way across their fragrance wall, when I found it!
Image from Sephora.com
Here it is! Flowerbomb by Victor&Rolf. I bought it that day, and sprayed a sample on my wrist again to make sure it was the one. Well, I got home, let Dino smell my wrist, and he thought it smelled "Baby-Powdery," which I took as a bad sign. I had some FlowerbyKenzo samples, and a KenzoAmour sample, so I sprayed those on, and was even more confused. What to do!
So this last weekend, we went back. I sprayed FlowerbyKenzo on one wrist, Flowerbomb on the other, and together we decided the Flowerbomb won! So I kept my previous purchase, opened it, and then set it aside for the wedding day. I hope I can resist sneaking smells now and again, it is just beautiful. Light but rich, floral and clean, kind of silky and just makes me happy.
One more decision down!
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
A Beautiful Dress!
This weekend, I went for a 3rd dress appointment. I was so hoping to find my dream dress with tulle, lace, bling, and an awesome shape, but apparently the dress I am looking for doesn't exist with bling. It does, however, exist without, and I think I might have found the one!
I hope Dino doesn't ever find this, because I want to put a picture here!!!
It has a matching bracelet and everything! It would add a little bling and something shiny. I'm thisclose to buying it too! It's only $73 for both, so I think I might... But I'm not convinced they would go perfectly with the dress. Hm.
And to top it off, I am thinking to return to Alfred Angelo for the veil they had there - it was beautiful with lace and beaded details, adding a little bling also.
So there you have it. I am hoping this might be it, my wedding outfit. I'm worried about pulling the trigger, though, on the dress, because it still does not have the sparkle on the dress that I was kind of hoping for. I tried on a white dress that was beaded all over, but totally the wrong shape for me, and my mom, who was previously in the No-Bling! camp, really liked it... But I love how the Dagen fits me, and how it transitions from lace to tulle so elegantly and ends up looking like I'm walking in a cloud. It also feels pretty summery to me, which is good.
Could someone just decide for me?
I hope Dino doesn't ever find this, because I want to put a picture here!!!
Image from Pronovias.US
There she is, the beautiful Pronovias Dagen (I only wish the name was a little prettier, and less dagger-like...). It is quite similar to the Alfred Angelo 867 that I also loved, except better. The bodice is more sculpted, and even more flattering. It doesn't have the eyelash lace along the top, which kind of bugged me. But it fits me just right, and flares out at the right spot for my body. I would probably get it in optical white, and have a corset back put in, as well as get/make a sash (not the one that you can buy with the dress), have a sparkly veil, and a chunky statement necklace. In fact, I think I found a great necklace contender!
Image from Etsy.com
It has a matching bracelet and everything! It would add a little bling and something shiny. I'm thisclose to buying it too! It's only $73 for both, so I think I might... But I'm not convinced they would go perfectly with the dress. Hm.
And to top it off, I am thinking to return to Alfred Angelo for the veil they had there - it was beautiful with lace and beaded details, adding a little bling also.
I think this was the one. Image from AlfredAngelo.com
So there you have it. I am hoping this might be it, my wedding outfit. I'm worried about pulling the trigger, though, on the dress, because it still does not have the sparkle on the dress that I was kind of hoping for. I tried on a white dress that was beaded all over, but totally the wrong shape for me, and my mom, who was previously in the No-Bling! camp, really liked it... But I love how the Dagen fits me, and how it transitions from lace to tulle so elegantly and ends up looking like I'm walking in a cloud. It also feels pretty summery to me, which is good.
Could someone just decide for me?
Monday, October 1, 2012
The Trouble with No Budget
My parents are beyond awesome. They have always spoiled me, and have insisted that they pay for this wedding. I can't complain, they are totally wonderful, know that it's my and Dino's wedding and though they get a little say, our decisions are final. They also trust me not to go crazy, as I am a pretty frugal person, and I can't imagine paying as much as some do for weddings.
The problem comes with narrowing down all of the infinite options. Finding a venue was easy, because we found a nice place that fit our requirements enough, and jumped on it before we lost the opportunity to have it. Photographer was even not that hard, though I tried to make it be more difficult. I made a huge list of as many photographers as I could find, then had to narrow down that list, and the one we both liked got us (of course, I tried to stay at a reasonable price, but for such an amazing photographer, I was okay stretching what I saw as reasonable).
Now I'm on to caterers. Our #1 option is no longer a realistic idea, so I'm back to square one. There are so many caterers out there, between traditional caterers and restaurants that will cater. Without a budget, I have no idea where to start narrowing the field. I don't particularly want to call every. single. one. on my list to set up meetings, because I don't have a ton of free time to go meet with people. We also haven't really determined what kind of food we're going for, aside from delicious. The only parameters that we have are that we want them to do set up and clean up for us, and we want them to let us choose the menu and bring in the drinks. Beyond that, the world is our oyster!
But that sucks. Too many options make me shut down and not want to even think about it. I know, we could have it way way worse, with a tiny budget that would only allow a couple of options, but it would be easier for me to choose between just a few. Then again, we can have whatever we want, really.
I guess the solution is to buckle down and start making calls. Am I the only one dealing with this overwhelming issue of too many options?
The problem comes with narrowing down all of the infinite options. Finding a venue was easy, because we found a nice place that fit our requirements enough, and jumped on it before we lost the opportunity to have it. Photographer was even not that hard, though I tried to make it be more difficult. I made a huge list of as many photographers as I could find, then had to narrow down that list, and the one we both liked got us (of course, I tried to stay at a reasonable price, but for such an amazing photographer, I was okay stretching what I saw as reasonable).
Now I'm on to caterers. Our #1 option is no longer a realistic idea, so I'm back to square one. There are so many caterers out there, between traditional caterers and restaurants that will cater. Without a budget, I have no idea where to start narrowing the field. I don't particularly want to call every. single. one. on my list to set up meetings, because I don't have a ton of free time to go meet with people. We also haven't really determined what kind of food we're going for, aside from delicious. The only parameters that we have are that we want them to do set up and clean up for us, and we want them to let us choose the menu and bring in the drinks. Beyond that, the world is our oyster!
But that sucks. Too many options make me shut down and not want to even think about it. I know, we could have it way way worse, with a tiny budget that would only allow a couple of options, but it would be easier for me to choose between just a few. Then again, we can have whatever we want, really.
I guess the solution is to buckle down and start making calls. Am I the only one dealing with this overwhelming issue of too many options?
Friday, September 28, 2012
Rehearsal Dinner Ideas
I love ice cream. Especially Molly Moon's ice cream. Oh, if I could eat their Honey Lavender ice cream every day, I certainly would. I briefly dreamed about having Molly Moon's come out to our reception with their truck, but quickly realized that wouldn't be very feasible. The parking lot is not all that close to the reception room, and we're not allowed to have food outside of the room, which would mean everyone would leave the room for ice cream and probably have to eat it outside in the parking lot. Meh, not a great plan in my mind. I'm sure we could have them bring ice cream inside, but without the charm of the truck and since we're already planning to have cake AND cookies, it seemed like overkill.
Then I started thinking about the rehearsal dinner, and what we're thinking about doing for that. Dino and I were talking, and I assured him we would only have people involved at the actual rehearsal, but we agreed that it might be nice to invite out of town guests to a pre-wedding meal, just to get to see people a little more. That means we might end up with a lot more than we would want to pay for to have a meal in a restaurant, plus if it is nice weather, it would be nice to have the dinner outside at a park or something.
Which brings me back to ice cream! Seattle has so many fantastic food trucks right now, with amazing food, so it would be great to get a food truck for dinner, and Molly Moon's for dessert, to share with our guests! This is just my brainstorm, I haven't contacted anyone yet, but I am hoping Dino, his parents, my parents, and anyone else involved loves it too so I can get the ball rolling! I so want to include the best ice cream ever in our celebration!
Then I started thinking about the rehearsal dinner, and what we're thinking about doing for that. Dino and I were talking, and I assured him we would only have people involved at the actual rehearsal, but we agreed that it might be nice to invite out of town guests to a pre-wedding meal, just to get to see people a little more. That means we might end up with a lot more than we would want to pay for to have a meal in a restaurant, plus if it is nice weather, it would be nice to have the dinner outside at a park or something.
Which brings me back to ice cream! Seattle has so many fantastic food trucks right now, with amazing food, so it would be great to get a food truck for dinner, and Molly Moon's for dessert, to share with our guests! This is just my brainstorm, I haven't contacted anyone yet, but I am hoping Dino, his parents, my parents, and anyone else involved loves it too so I can get the ball rolling! I so want to include the best ice cream ever in our celebration!
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Some little things
It sounds little, but I now have inspiration for my first DIY project! A long time ago, I saw a picture of rings tied to a tree for a ring warming. Maybe something like this (although I feel like the original one I saw was just rings on the tree with a sign, no heart and stuff - though this is very cute!)
From the first moment I heard about ring warmings, I love it, but didn't like the idea of taking time in the ceremony to pass the rings though everyone. Especially not at a wedding with 175 guests (or so!). This idea of having the rings in a location as the guests come in seems much more doable, and I love it! One problem: our ceremony will be taking place outside on the lawn, where there is not a single tree in a convenient location. So, aside from bringing in our own tree (which we might do elsewhere... stay tuned!), this idea wasn't going to work exactly like this.
But I wasn't about to give up on the idea of a ring warming prior to the ceremony! No way Jose. I figured I probably want a guest book or at least programs set up outside for guests to stop at before taking a seat for the ceremony, so I'll probably have a table out there, right? Perfect! So, guests will approach the table, sign a guest book, see the rings and a sign informing them what to do for the ring warming, and then grab a program. All at one station!
So I won't have a tree to hang the rings from, but I still like the idea of a tree-like-object, and I still want them to hang, rather than be loose in a bowl or something. At the mall on Saturday I saw something that inspired me to start thinking seriously about making such a tree-like-object to hang the rings from, and I snuck a picture:
It is essentially a jewelry holder, but I intend to make a similar structure, altered to better fit my purposes. I don't want the leaf bowl at the bottom, and maybe we can incorporate some real flowers and leaves into my version, but I love the curved stem. I'm thinking to make it out of thick wire, with some help from Dino and my MOH. It might take a few tries, but I have a feeling it will be worth it to get exactly what I'm envisioning!
So I might finally start dipping my toes in the DIY pool. I am so glad!
Next up, deciding on fonts and overall looks (chevrons maybe?!?!?!) to let me start taking on MORE DIY!!!!
Image from Offbeat Bride, http://offbeatbride.com/2010/04/pi-day-farm-wedding
From the first moment I heard about ring warmings, I love it, but didn't like the idea of taking time in the ceremony to pass the rings though everyone. Especially not at a wedding with 175 guests (or so!). This idea of having the rings in a location as the guests come in seems much more doable, and I love it! One problem: our ceremony will be taking place outside on the lawn, where there is not a single tree in a convenient location. So, aside from bringing in our own tree (which we might do elsewhere... stay tuned!), this idea wasn't going to work exactly like this.
But I wasn't about to give up on the idea of a ring warming prior to the ceremony! No way Jose. I figured I probably want a guest book or at least programs set up outside for guests to stop at before taking a seat for the ceremony, so I'll probably have a table out there, right? Perfect! So, guests will approach the table, sign a guest book, see the rings and a sign informing them what to do for the ring warming, and then grab a program. All at one station!
So I won't have a tree to hang the rings from, but I still like the idea of a tree-like-object, and I still want them to hang, rather than be loose in a bowl or something. At the mall on Saturday I saw something that inspired me to start thinking seriously about making such a tree-like-object to hang the rings from, and I snuck a picture:
Picture by me, from inside Fuego
It is essentially a jewelry holder, but I intend to make a similar structure, altered to better fit my purposes. I don't want the leaf bowl at the bottom, and maybe we can incorporate some real flowers and leaves into my version, but I love the curved stem. I'm thinking to make it out of thick wire, with some help from Dino and my MOH. It might take a few tries, but I have a feeling it will be worth it to get exactly what I'm envisioning!
So I might finally start dipping my toes in the DIY pool. I am so glad!
Next up, deciding on fonts and overall looks (chevrons maybe?!?!?!) to let me start taking on MORE DIY!!!!
Monday, September 24, 2012
In the Mood.. for Food!
This weekend we made a trip I've been trying to get us to take for quite awhile... To a restaurant that does catering, one I've been longing to have as a caterer for our wedding! I went to brunch there with some friends over 6 months ago, and haven't been able to get back since, so I basically forced Dino to go to brunch there with me on Sunday. This particular restaurant has 3 locations, all about a half hour away from our house, and is only open for brunch on the weekends, so it limited our available visits. But we finally went, and it was as amazing as I remembered...
The restaurant? Portage Bay Cafe. They have a focus on local, organic, sustainable foods, which makes me incredibly happy, with seasonal ingredients and somewhat of a northwest feel to the cuisine. Naturally, we've only been able to try brunch foods, but everything looks, smells, and tastes AMAZING, so I have a feeling their dinners would be delicious as well. The sample menu on their website sure looks great!
So now I'm trying to organize my caterers to figure out when we can meet with various companies to get more information, and maybe a tasting or two! My mom told me that one of the things she really wanted to be involved in was the catering decision, specifically the tasting, so I want to make sure she can attend. Something interesting about that, though, is my dad mentioned she's been experiencing some weird side effects from the chemo in regards to her tastes. Things she usually loves, she doesn't like right now, and foods she used to hate, she is really enjoying. So my dad wanted to make sure HE could come along too, because he isn't trusting her taste buds right now!
Anyway, glad I finally have Dino on board for checking out Portage Bay, and I'm feeling that much closer to checking another item off! Slowly but surely...
The restaurant? Portage Bay Cafe. They have a focus on local, organic, sustainable foods, which makes me incredibly happy, with seasonal ingredients and somewhat of a northwest feel to the cuisine. Naturally, we've only been able to try brunch foods, but everything looks, smells, and tastes AMAZING, so I have a feeling their dinners would be delicious as well. The sample menu on their website sure looks great!
So now I'm trying to organize my caterers to figure out when we can meet with various companies to get more information, and maybe a tasting or two! My mom told me that one of the things she really wanted to be involved in was the catering decision, specifically the tasting, so I want to make sure she can attend. Something interesting about that, though, is my dad mentioned she's been experiencing some weird side effects from the chemo in regards to her tastes. Things she usually loves, she doesn't like right now, and foods she used to hate, she is really enjoying. So my dad wanted to make sure HE could come along too, because he isn't trusting her taste buds right now!
Anyway, glad I finally have Dino on board for checking out Portage Bay, and I'm feeling that much closer to checking another item off! Slowly but surely...
Monday, September 17, 2012
Growing Old Together
Today I found a blog that has touched me so much more than I expected. It is written by a woman who is later in life, having been married for over 50 years and raising 3 kids. Earlier this year, her husband died. It struck so many chords with me to read from before his passing to now, how she is dealing and what life is like for her. It was simply amazing, and she was so well spoken/written.
Right now, in my life, we're so excited and looking forward to spending the rest of our lives together, but it is so scary and sad to think about how that won't be forever. I used to have trouble relying on another person, but now... I have turned almost clingy and rely so much on him being there. I can't even imagine the pain this woman is going through, waking up each morning only to realize he's not there, cooking alone for one, not having a companion to go on adventures with and to joke with and talk with. Of course, after illness and pain, death can be a relief in some ways, but I can't imagine it would be easy in the slightest to lose someone you love, no matter the circumstances.
I know this is depressing, but I don't think we really examine the whole "'til death do us part" aspect of marriage. What comes after? We're vowing to be there together, through thick and thin, up until one or the other spouse dies. Then what? I don't have an answer to that question, and it sucks to think about, but I will be pondering it for a bit.
Right now, in my life, we're so excited and looking forward to spending the rest of our lives together, but it is so scary and sad to think about how that won't be forever. I used to have trouble relying on another person, but now... I have turned almost clingy and rely so much on him being there. I can't even imagine the pain this woman is going through, waking up each morning only to realize he's not there, cooking alone for one, not having a companion to go on adventures with and to joke with and talk with. Of course, after illness and pain, death can be a relief in some ways, but I can't imagine it would be easy in the slightest to lose someone you love, no matter the circumstances.
I know this is depressing, but I don't think we really examine the whole "'til death do us part" aspect of marriage. What comes after? We're vowing to be there together, through thick and thin, up until one or the other spouse dies. Then what? I don't have an answer to that question, and it sucks to think about, but I will be pondering it for a bit.
Friday, September 14, 2012
Say Cheese!!!
It looks like we have a photographer! I don't want to jinx it by posting her name yet, but she was so wonderful and energetic and fun to meet with in person, and I want to have someone like that around on my wedding day. We met the other evening, and it really seems like it will work out! Not only do we have random connections to her partner/second shooter, but we've seen her in action at another friend's wedding, and they loved her. So I'm glad to have that mostly decided!
All that is left is signing a contract and sending a deposit! But she needs to send us the contract and the price so we can get that going. It might be a scary big number, but I feel really good about supporting her business, and she is very talented. We'll be doing some engagement photos with her too, as well as with my brother's friend.
Another bonus - she had a ton of recommendations for other vendors, so we might be able to get the rest of this planning knocked out soon! Ha, right, if only it was that easy. But I already contacted the DJ she suggested, and might set up a time to meet. I still kind of want to meet with the random DJ we sat next to on the plane to Vegas, if only just because it'd be like "Oh hey, we met you on that plane ride, remember? Yeah!" and it would be totally weird.
Last thing I need to arrange is setting up another dress appointment, but I'm having trouble getting Dino to give me his mom's email or phone number to see when she might be available! But our photographer recommended the bridal store I want to go to next anyway, and gave me a name for a consultant to ask for, so I'm hoping we can make it work soon.
Woo! It feels like I'm finally accomplishing things!!
All that is left is signing a contract and sending a deposit! But she needs to send us the contract and the price so we can get that going. It might be a scary big number, but I feel really good about supporting her business, and she is very talented. We'll be doing some engagement photos with her too, as well as with my brother's friend.
Another bonus - she had a ton of recommendations for other vendors, so we might be able to get the rest of this planning knocked out soon! Ha, right, if only it was that easy. But I already contacted the DJ she suggested, and might set up a time to meet. I still kind of want to meet with the random DJ we sat next to on the plane to Vegas, if only just because it'd be like "Oh hey, we met you on that plane ride, remember? Yeah!" and it would be totally weird.
Last thing I need to arrange is setting up another dress appointment, but I'm having trouble getting Dino to give me his mom's email or phone number to see when she might be available! But our photographer recommended the bridal store I want to go to next anyway, and gave me a name for a consultant to ask for, so I'm hoping we can make it work soon.
Woo! It feels like I'm finally accomplishing things!!
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Photographer!
Oh goodness, I am starting to feel like we're back on track! We've gone to try on dresses twice now (just waiting for a good weekend for my FMIL and mom to both be available and healthy to go for a third appointment), and we've made a huuuuuuge decision! Well, not 100% decided and booked, but it took so long to get to this point that it's worth celebrating!
That's right, we have found a photographer we both love and feel would be a great fit. I don't want to jinx it, since I still need to set up a time for us to meet with her, but it's so exciting! She even has our date open still!
The funny part is we have a bit of a connection to her. I was compiling the world's longest list of potential photographers, and then trying to pare it down to ones whose style I loved and were still at least semi-affordable. Meanwhile, Dino's former roommate's girlfriend (right?) was telling him to check out his former roommate's sister and her partner's photography. I had kind of dismissed it, like, oh sure, I bet they are great. When Dino and I finally sat down to look at the websites for the ones I liked the most from my list, one photographer in particular stood out, with clean, beautiful photography. Then out of curiosity we started searching for the former roommate's sister, and that same photographer's site kept coming up. We eventually figured out the sister is the second shooter for that photographer, and we are so pleased! So I am hoping it is fate and will work out, because seriously. Such pretty pictures.
So now I'm crossing my fingers that we'll get along well with her, and that my parents will not freak at the slightly high price tag (but it's so worth it!!! These pictures will last forever, right? I'm willing to pay for part myself!!).
That's right, we have found a photographer we both love and feel would be a great fit. I don't want to jinx it, since I still need to set up a time for us to meet with her, but it's so exciting! She even has our date open still!
The funny part is we have a bit of a connection to her. I was compiling the world's longest list of potential photographers, and then trying to pare it down to ones whose style I loved and were still at least semi-affordable. Meanwhile, Dino's former roommate's girlfriend (right?) was telling him to check out his former roommate's sister and her partner's photography. I had kind of dismissed it, like, oh sure, I bet they are great. When Dino and I finally sat down to look at the websites for the ones I liked the most from my list, one photographer in particular stood out, with clean, beautiful photography. Then out of curiosity we started searching for the former roommate's sister, and that same photographer's site kept coming up. We eventually figured out the sister is the second shooter for that photographer, and we are so pleased! So I am hoping it is fate and will work out, because seriously. Such pretty pictures.
So now I'm crossing my fingers that we'll get along well with her, and that my parents will not freak at the slightly high price tag (but it's so worth it!!! These pictures will last forever, right? I'm willing to pay for part myself!!).
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Personalized Wedding Overkill
When I first started reading wedding blogs, I was unengaged, and thought I was just looking because my friend was getting married. It was harmless fun, and I learned so much! One of the first blogs I started reading was Offbeat Bride, and I immediately loved it. It showed brides and grooms, brides and brides, and grooms and grooms getting married in the way THEY wanted. They let their likes and passions show through, and made the day completely about them. This was a revalation. Brides not wearing white? Getting married with only a few close friends around? Wedding cakes decorated with sci-fi themes? Completely throwing traditions out the window? I had no idea this could be done, and I LOVED IT!
Over the next year or so of being unengaged, I kept reading, and found other blogs as well. Weddingbee was a fabulous find, because you could read the whole story from brides, start to finish, and it was more like a story than just a recap or pretty pictures. I found A Practical Wedding, which was very nice to see. There people were talking about real things, real life, not focusing on just the wedding day. They even spoke directly to the unengaged, like me! It was great. I read several others, deleting some from my reader because they featured such standard or over-the-top weddings. More and more, I fell into the wedding blog hole, seeing all kinds of trends pop up, new ideas, and ways to personalize your wedding day.
By the time I got engaged, I'm pretty sure I had forgotten what exactly a "Traditional Wedding" used to look like to me. You know, the weddings that don't have DIY centerpieces, or unique invitations. Weddings that have a white 3 tier cake, and a bouquet thrown at the end of the night. Instead, my mind was swirling with new ideas, making centerpieces out of collected items and mason jars; designing my invites myself; having a complicated, colorful cake; and throwing gift cards tied to flowers! Everything needs to be different! Everything needs to scream "US!!!!".
Except it doesn't really, does it? A wedding is, essentially, 2 people committing their lives together, and their communities witnessing and celebrating that. A wedding is not favors and photobooths and moustaches on sticks.
My fiance does not have the influence of the wedding blogs, so when we discuss little aspects of the wedding, he leans to the more formal, traditional way of doing things, whereas I always come up with these quirky, more casual ideas. He probably hasn't seen that brides are wearing short dresses sometimes, and bouquets can be made with buttons or brooches. He thinks I am crazy when I suggest we write our own vows and include elements in the ceremony from mainstream media.
I forgot what his idea of a wedding is, and it is really hard for me to come to terms with the idea of a formal wedding when there are so many options out there. Besides, at the end, we really just want to be married and have a nice evening with our people. But it is hard for me to explain to him that we do have other options too.
So I think what I want to focus on is making the wedding day a good one for our guests, one where they won't be confused by what is going on, and they'll feel like it is, indeed, a wedding. That means probably combining our two views of weddings so that we can have a little fun with it, but still keep it simple. I want them to have fun, and I want to be married. If at the end of the day those two items are checked off my list, I think I'll be happy.
Over the next year or so of being unengaged, I kept reading, and found other blogs as well. Weddingbee was a fabulous find, because you could read the whole story from brides, start to finish, and it was more like a story than just a recap or pretty pictures. I found A Practical Wedding, which was very nice to see. There people were talking about real things, real life, not focusing on just the wedding day. They even spoke directly to the unengaged, like me! It was great. I read several others, deleting some from my reader because they featured such standard or over-the-top weddings. More and more, I fell into the wedding blog hole, seeing all kinds of trends pop up, new ideas, and ways to personalize your wedding day.
By the time I got engaged, I'm pretty sure I had forgotten what exactly a "Traditional Wedding" used to look like to me. You know, the weddings that don't have DIY centerpieces, or unique invitations. Weddings that have a white 3 tier cake, and a bouquet thrown at the end of the night. Instead, my mind was swirling with new ideas, making centerpieces out of collected items and mason jars; designing my invites myself; having a complicated, colorful cake; and throwing gift cards tied to flowers! Everything needs to be different! Everything needs to scream "US!!!!".
Except it doesn't really, does it? A wedding is, essentially, 2 people committing their lives together, and their communities witnessing and celebrating that. A wedding is not favors and photobooths and moustaches on sticks.
My fiance does not have the influence of the wedding blogs, so when we discuss little aspects of the wedding, he leans to the more formal, traditional way of doing things, whereas I always come up with these quirky, more casual ideas. He probably hasn't seen that brides are wearing short dresses sometimes, and bouquets can be made with buttons or brooches. He thinks I am crazy when I suggest we write our own vows and include elements in the ceremony from mainstream media.
I forgot what his idea of a wedding is, and it is really hard for me to come to terms with the idea of a formal wedding when there are so many options out there. Besides, at the end, we really just want to be married and have a nice evening with our people. But it is hard for me to explain to him that we do have other options too.
So I think what I want to focus on is making the wedding day a good one for our guests, one where they won't be confused by what is going on, and they'll feel like it is, indeed, a wedding. That means probably combining our two views of weddings so that we can have a little fun with it, but still keep it simple. I want them to have fun, and I want to be married. If at the end of the day those two items are checked off my list, I think I'll be happy.
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Curveballs
Wowza, I've been slacking hardcore, not only on this blog, but on wedding planning in general! Although I find it hard to blog about things when I'm not doing anything...
There have also been a few curveballs in my life recently. My wonderful, amazing, fabulous mother who has always been my rock was diagnosed with breast cancer. It threw me for a huge loop. My mom? My mom who hardly ever gets sick, who is the most successful woman I know, who is caring and loving and such a good person? It took me quite awhile to come to terms with it, to realize it wasn't a death sentence, to see that she's still the same person, just a little more tired or whatever after her chemo. I've only known for a couple weeks, though, and I guess she's only known for about that long as well, so we're all still adjusting to the new normal.
But the good news is that she is fighting hard, and she's 1/4 through the worst of her chemo treatments! She is doing pretty well, it seems, and every time I talk to her I feel better (a little ironic, right? Who is supposed to be the support system here?). The cancer hadn't spread, which is the best news. And on top of that, she was able to come with me to look at wedding dresses for the first time!!!!
It was a little last minute, the wedding dress shopping trip. My MOH and HLP and BFF and all those acronyms was luckily available, so I made the appointment on Friday for Saturday morning. That night I called my mom and asked if she would be up for it, and I was so glad she was able to make it. Having those two was just perfect. They know my style well enough, and are able to nicely say what works and what doesn't, even if it is different from what I think. We didn't find anything amazing, but it was such a good learning experience! I learned that I love sweetheart necklines, and waistlines that hit just above the hip. I also looooove sleeves, even if my FI wasn't crazy of the photos I showed him (of the rejects! He won't get to see the dress when I do find it!). My mom didn't really like the tulle skirts, although I think they grew on her a little. She also didn't like the colored sashes that I loved, but I think we can come to an agreement there. My MOH was great too! Pointed out practical things like bustles and such. I have a good team on my side.
So, anyway, that is where it stands right now. My mom told me the one other thing she definitely wants to be involved with is the caterer selection! I don't blame her! So that will be one of the next decisions we make. Although I don't know if I should wait until after the worst of her chemo, so she'll be more likely to be hungry and able to enjoy the food!
I never thought I'd be faced with illness so close to home like this, but my mother is seriously so strong and amazing. She is fighting through, and staying happy and positive so far. I am incredibly impressed with her attitude and outlook, and so glad she has the great doctors she has, and my dad to help take care of her while she's not at her best. I'm lucky to have my mother, and this is making me even more grateful to have such a wonderful woman in my life. I can't express my love for her enough!!!
There have also been a few curveballs in my life recently. My wonderful, amazing, fabulous mother who has always been my rock was diagnosed with breast cancer. It threw me for a huge loop. My mom? My mom who hardly ever gets sick, who is the most successful woman I know, who is caring and loving and such a good person? It took me quite awhile to come to terms with it, to realize it wasn't a death sentence, to see that she's still the same person, just a little more tired or whatever after her chemo. I've only known for a couple weeks, though, and I guess she's only known for about that long as well, so we're all still adjusting to the new normal.
But the good news is that she is fighting hard, and she's 1/4 through the worst of her chemo treatments! She is doing pretty well, it seems, and every time I talk to her I feel better (a little ironic, right? Who is supposed to be the support system here?). The cancer hadn't spread, which is the best news. And on top of that, she was able to come with me to look at wedding dresses for the first time!!!!
It was a little last minute, the wedding dress shopping trip. My MOH and HLP and BFF and all those acronyms was luckily available, so I made the appointment on Friday for Saturday morning. That night I called my mom and asked if she would be up for it, and I was so glad she was able to make it. Having those two was just perfect. They know my style well enough, and are able to nicely say what works and what doesn't, even if it is different from what I think. We didn't find anything amazing, but it was such a good learning experience! I learned that I love sweetheart necklines, and waistlines that hit just above the hip. I also looooove sleeves, even if my FI wasn't crazy of the photos I showed him (of the rejects! He won't get to see the dress when I do find it!). My mom didn't really like the tulle skirts, although I think they grew on her a little. She also didn't like the colored sashes that I loved, but I think we can come to an agreement there. My MOH was great too! Pointed out practical things like bustles and such. I have a good team on my side.
So, anyway, that is where it stands right now. My mom told me the one other thing she definitely wants to be involved with is the caterer selection! I don't blame her! So that will be one of the next decisions we make. Although I don't know if I should wait until after the worst of her chemo, so she'll be more likely to be hungry and able to enjoy the food!
I never thought I'd be faced with illness so close to home like this, but my mother is seriously so strong and amazing. She is fighting through, and staying happy and positive so far. I am incredibly impressed with her attitude and outlook, and so glad she has the great doctors she has, and my dad to help take care of her while she's not at her best. I'm lucky to have my mother, and this is making me even more grateful to have such a wonderful woman in my life. I can't express my love for her enough!!!
Monday, June 4, 2012
Where is the time going?
Is it just me or was it just February like, last week? And now it is JUNE?!?! I've been engaged for months now! Nearly 4 months!
Planning has not made any progress in a month, and I just don't know what to do to get it back on track again. Everything seems pretty daunting. Especially taking into consideration our house projects. We finally will have some work done on the house this week, and we are almost done painting it, but the biggest, most prohibitive thing is the hardwood floor refinishing. We've received 4 quotes already, have a 5th in the works, and cannot make a decision! I am afraid that picking a caterer and a photographer in particular, as well as all the other vendors, for the wedding will be a similar situation, with us thinking and thinking and never making a decision. Once the house is finished and we're all moved in, though, I won't have any excuses to not start up the planning train again.
I am also a little concerned about my floral situation (well, friend situation, really!). My friend offered to do them, and fly all the way from Australia to attend our wedding. However, her sister-in-law (who is American) is getting married soon as well. I would hate more than anything for her to have to take 2 trips here, or if she could only take one, she'd have to pick family, of course! I would 100% understand, but it would be so hard for her and I'd hate to make that happen. It sounds like she's trying to get both our events to be in the same month at least, so she can attend them both in one trip, but only time will tell. And honestly, the flowers mean next to nothing when compared to having a great friend be there!
Someday the wedding stuff will start falling into place and I'll have all kinds of things to report on and discuss. But right now? I'm just hanging in here, trying to finish one project before really starting on the next, and thanking goodness that we chose a date so far out!
Planning has not made any progress in a month, and I just don't know what to do to get it back on track again. Everything seems pretty daunting. Especially taking into consideration our house projects. We finally will have some work done on the house this week, and we are almost done painting it, but the biggest, most prohibitive thing is the hardwood floor refinishing. We've received 4 quotes already, have a 5th in the works, and cannot make a decision! I am afraid that picking a caterer and a photographer in particular, as well as all the other vendors, for the wedding will be a similar situation, with us thinking and thinking and never making a decision. Once the house is finished and we're all moved in, though, I won't have any excuses to not start up the planning train again.
I am also a little concerned about my floral situation (well, friend situation, really!). My friend offered to do them, and fly all the way from Australia to attend our wedding. However, her sister-in-law (who is American) is getting married soon as well. I would hate more than anything for her to have to take 2 trips here, or if she could only take one, she'd have to pick family, of course! I would 100% understand, but it would be so hard for her and I'd hate to make that happen. It sounds like she's trying to get both our events to be in the same month at least, so she can attend them both in one trip, but only time will tell. And honestly, the flowers mean next to nothing when compared to having a great friend be there!
Someday the wedding stuff will start falling into place and I'll have all kinds of things to report on and discuss. But right now? I'm just hanging in here, trying to finish one project before really starting on the next, and thanking goodness that we chose a date so far out!
Thursday, May 17, 2012
The new house!
I thought it was prudent to mention why it's been so silent... I mentioned it over a month ago, but we finally, finally, finally closed on our house! We are homeowners. With a house that needs a new roof and the floors done. Among other things! Yikes. This expensive but super exciting adventure has been taking up 90% of my free time lately!
On the wedding front, it's been slow. The current thought for colors is Gray, Navy Blue, with accents of Pink and Green. I think it sounds fun. We are considering having the boys on his side wear gray suits with green ties, then the guy on my side with a gray suit and a pink tie, and my MOH in a pink dress (or would a gray dress with a pink sash fit better?). We've already changed our minds over a million times, so... Who knows what we'll end up with, though.
I've also been doing research. Lots and lots of research. Who knew there were SO MANY photographers in the area? I have a spreadsheet a mile long of photographers alone, and those are just the ones whose styles I liked. I need to sit Dino down to review some of them with me, just to get an idea of what he likes as well.
And then there are the caterers. I kind of have my heart set on one in particular, but I'm not sure how full service they are. We'll need them to do a lot of set-up and stuff, since I don't want to subject my family and friends to that on the day. And I don't want to do it either. I haven't really found tons of caterers yet, though, probably because I've been filtering through so many photographers!
It is actually kind of nice to have two major things to plan and think about. When I get tired of searching photographers, I can always go to pinterest for home design ideas (specifically wood floor stain colors at this moment...). Then when that gets tiring, pinterest has tons of wedding inspiration as well! Fabulous!
I must be so boring in real life, all I talk about is the house or the wedding!
On the wedding front, it's been slow. The current thought for colors is Gray, Navy Blue, with accents of Pink and Green. I think it sounds fun. We are considering having the boys on his side wear gray suits with green ties, then the guy on my side with a gray suit and a pink tie, and my MOH in a pink dress (or would a gray dress with a pink sash fit better?). We've already changed our minds over a million times, so... Who knows what we'll end up with, though.
I've also been doing research. Lots and lots of research. Who knew there were SO MANY photographers in the area? I have a spreadsheet a mile long of photographers alone, and those are just the ones whose styles I liked. I need to sit Dino down to review some of them with me, just to get an idea of what he likes as well.
And then there are the caterers. I kind of have my heart set on one in particular, but I'm not sure how full service they are. We'll need them to do a lot of set-up and stuff, since I don't want to subject my family and friends to that on the day. And I don't want to do it either. I haven't really found tons of caterers yet, though, probably because I've been filtering through so many photographers!
It is actually kind of nice to have two major things to plan and think about. When I get tired of searching photographers, I can always go to pinterest for home design ideas (specifically wood floor stain colors at this moment...). Then when that gets tiring, pinterest has tons of wedding inspiration as well! Fabulous!
I must be so boring in real life, all I talk about is the house or the wedding!
Career vs. Relationship
This isn't exactly wedding related, but it's something I've been thinking about...
My life lately has been a dichotomy. One half is WONDERFUL! Completely satisfied! Happy as a clam! The other half is depressed, downtrodden, and
desperate.
When I graduated college, I landed a sweet gig, working in
my mom’s office, doing something I was fully capable of. Excellent.
Then I decided I wanted a partner in life, a man to share my life
with. So online I went, and presto! Not 3 months later I had found an amazing
guy! So I started pouring more and more
time into our relationship, and no longer was as invested in my job because I suddenly
had a life. I moved slightly closer to
my man, and things were looking good.
Jump forward two years, and I had HAD it. First off I lived over a half hour away from
my love. Can you imagine? (I’m being sarcastic now, but it sure felt
like the world was ending then!) Plus I just
couldn’t take my job anymore. It was
mind-numbing. Soul-crushing. I hadn’t intended to be at that job forever,
and my time was up. My company and I decided
together that I was ready to move on, and they gave me 2 months to figure out
my next move. I thought “hey, I can get
a new job, one closer to my boyfriend!” but neglected to line up a new job
prior to quitting. On the VERY LAST DAY
of my employment, I got an offer for a job.
A part time, boring, low level job.
I took it!
With the new job meant I needed to find a new place to
live. Although we had discussed never,
ever moving in together before engagement, suddenly I had a job that was 15
minutes from his place, and over an hour from my parents’ (I gave up my
expensive apartment in the midst of job quitting. When changing one thing, I like to change
everything). So I was going to spend work
nights at his place, and other nights at my parents’. But then, as tends to happen, I decided I
liked being around him more. So I just
kind of stayed. And stayed. And soon enough, I was living there too. Which was fine.
My new job turned out to be a nice change... for
awhile. I loved working part time, but
hated the pay. I got the chance to move
to full time, and did, but it meant taking on more small tasks. It too became mind-numbing and soul-crushing. I realized I still had no idea what I wanted
to be when I grew up, just that I wanted to be with my boyfriend.
After college I managed to get a couple okay jobs (yes, I
realize I am super lucky to have had solid employment since graduation, but it
doesn’t mean they are good jobs), while focusing most of my time on my
relationship and love. I forgot to get a
career of any sort.
I wish there was a happy ending to this, but I’m still in
the thick of it. On the wonderful side,
my man proposed to me almost exactly a year after I snuck/moved in to his place! On the depressing side, I still don’t like my
job and I still don’t know where to go with my career. One half of my life is pretty much smooth
sailing and all figured out! The other
half is floundering around helplessly, making grand plans that soon get
smooshed by practicality and indecision.
I am so grateful for my relationship, but find myself hoping we can get
married and have kids already so I’ll have a good excuse to stop working my
dead-end job! But life doesn’t work that
way, I’ve found.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Everything is happening at once!!!
Such excitement lately! Hence my absence - we've been focused on buying a house lately, and on Sunday, we found one we love! Put an offer in Monday afternoon, offer accepted Monday night, inspection Wednesday morning... And now we have to arrange more inspections for the variety of issues found. So it isn't perfect, but I love the house and think it will be fantastic once it's all fixed up!
Sunday was a very exciting day for another reason! After touring the house we're now trying to buy, we went to a beautiful venue, the Rosehill Community Center in Mukilteo, to participate in the lottery they hold for the next summer - as in 2013. Perfect! So we lined up, ended up 4th in line, but that doesn't matter, because they have you draw a number. Now, they had a LOT of numbers in the lottery. Probably more than 500. And there weren't that many couples there. So when we drew #41, we thought our chances would be good to get a date we wanted... and we were right! We got to pick second, and got the date I've been hoping for all along. Woo! We also were able to reserve the outside grassy area for the ceremony, which has an amazing view.
Sunday was a very exciting day for another reason! After touring the house we're now trying to buy, we went to a beautiful venue, the Rosehill Community Center in Mukilteo, to participate in the lottery they hold for the next summer - as in 2013. Perfect! So we lined up, ended up 4th in line, but that doesn't matter, because they have you draw a number. Now, they had a LOT of numbers in the lottery. Probably more than 500. And there weren't that many couples there. So when we drew #41, we thought our chances would be good to get a date we wanted... and we were right! We got to pick second, and got the date I've been hoping for all along. Woo! We also were able to reserve the outside grassy area for the ceremony, which has an amazing view.
This is the outside, our venue is right inside those huuuuuuge windows! Photo from City of Mukilteo.
This is kind of the view, although there is much more water visible in person. Photo from City of Mukilteo.
This is the lobby, but can you believe how gorgeous it is?!?! Photo from City of Mukilteo.
So we have our venue and our date! Two HUGE things, that I am super happy to have locked up. And my mom approved of the location, even though she didn't get to see it beforehand. The only downsides to this venue is 1) no hard alcohol or kegs, and 2) no sparklers or throwing anything. But, we can still brew beer to serve as long as we bottle it, and we can have bubbles or ribbon wands or something else if we want! So I think it will be a great great place to get married. Seriously, you should see the view.
Next up: finish buying a house. I am so incredibly glad we are waiting until NEXT summer to get married, there is no way we would be able to do all of this at once. On top of everything, I'm also taking a bartending class this week and next week for kicks and funsies, but it sure is making life a lot busier. I am exhausted!
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Going Nowhere Really Fast...
Not us, just our planning. It's so far in the future still! It's exciting because there is a WEDDING to plan and think about and gush about, but I honestly am feeling kind of stuck again. It almost makes me want to move the wedding up so I can get started on stuff, but I don't want to stress myself out yet either. So I'm taking a rather chill approach right now.
That said, I keep having freak out moments, where I will see something on Pinterest, say a guestbook, and think to myself "OH MY GOD! I don't have a guest book picked out yet!" This leads to some frantic searching on Pinterest, Etsy, and anywhere else I can think, until about 5 or 10 minutes later I realize I still have like, a year before I even have to worry much. That and we haven't nailed down the feel or theme or colors or anything. So it is pointless. But it feels like there is so much I should be doing! I think my frantic searching may also be wearing me out and making me burn out on weddings a little (already?), which is terrible! It doesn't help that I have been reading wedding blogs for over a year now...
I guess my next step would logically be to discuss with Dino how we want this whole shebang to feel. I think he might have a different idea than me, especially when it comes to formality (and what is and isn't formal). He seems to have jumped on the black tie bandwagon, where colors are subdued and everything is formal. I'm more on the side of bright colors and fun, but still formal (because how often are we and all our friends all dressed up? That makes it formal automatically, right?). So there is something we need to hash out. And then we really should make a list of venues we would like to see in person, tour them, and decide on that (although since we're looking at houses to buy one soon, I am not enthused to be looking at any more buildings right now!).
Am I the only one who feels like planning starts out so slowly? How do you just jump right in, go from being a girlfriend one day, to suddenly having basically a new job in planning a wedding?
That said, I keep having freak out moments, where I will see something on Pinterest, say a guestbook, and think to myself "OH MY GOD! I don't have a guest book picked out yet!" This leads to some frantic searching on Pinterest, Etsy, and anywhere else I can think, until about 5 or 10 minutes later I realize I still have like, a year before I even have to worry much. That and we haven't nailed down the feel or theme or colors or anything. So it is pointless. But it feels like there is so much I should be doing! I think my frantic searching may also be wearing me out and making me burn out on weddings a little (already?), which is terrible! It doesn't help that I have been reading wedding blogs for over a year now...
I guess my next step would logically be to discuss with Dino how we want this whole shebang to feel. I think he might have a different idea than me, especially when it comes to formality (and what is and isn't formal). He seems to have jumped on the black tie bandwagon, where colors are subdued and everything is formal. I'm more on the side of bright colors and fun, but still formal (because how often are we and all our friends all dressed up? That makes it formal automatically, right?). So there is something we need to hash out. And then we really should make a list of venues we would like to see in person, tour them, and decide on that (although since we're looking at houses to buy one soon, I am not enthused to be looking at any more buildings right now!).
Am I the only one who feels like planning starts out so slowly? How do you just jump right in, go from being a girlfriend one day, to suddenly having basically a new job in planning a wedding?
Friday, March 2, 2012
Getting Down to Business
And by business, I mean list making.
I feel like the best way for me to get started is to make lists. Things I must have, of course, but things I don't want is also quite important to keep in mind. This is that list.
1. Vintage/Rustic Feel
Is it just me, or are 98% of the weddings these days described as either "Vintage" or "Rustic"? I must admit, most of the time these weddings are so pretty, the soft colors, flowers all over, a random piece of furniture antiqued and placed outside, and of course, mason jars. They just 100% are not me.
I feel like the best way for me to get started is to make lists. Things I must have, of course, but things I don't want is also quite important to keep in mind. This is that list.
1. Vintage/Rustic Feel
Is it just me, or are 98% of the weddings these days described as either "Vintage" or "Rustic"? I must admit, most of the time these weddings are so pretty, the soft colors, flowers all over, a random piece of furniture antiqued and placed outside, and of course, mason jars. They just 100% are not me.
This is an example of a "Vintage" wedding. And not me. (Image from http://www.betsywhite.com)
If you had asked me 5 years ago, I probably would have gone gaga over this type of wedding. But now, I think I'd rather have bright colors, less fussy looks, and more FUN.
2. Soft, Muted Photography
This goes hand in hand with the Vintage thing. I'm not sure if the recent popularity of Instagram or the whole Vintage/Rustic aesthetic is why I've decided it's not my thing, but it definitely isn't. Again, it can be very pretty, and achieves a look that is reminiscent of old times.
Yum, old cupcakes... (Image from http://sweetapolita.com)
However, I want our day to be recorded as crisp and clearly as possible. I want the bright bright colors I choose to show through! I want everyone's faces to be in focus! I want to remember it as I live it! I guess that means we'll be looking for more of a journalistic photographer?
3. Cupcakes.
This is something that will surprise basically all of my friends and family. I am known as a cupcake fiend! They are cute, they are delicious, but they don't really fit in with my wedding vision.
Mmm, rustic cupcakes... (Image from http://wedding-cupcakes.org)
Any other day, I would be down for a cupcake! But the look of a beautiful, tall cake... well, cupcakes just can't compare. (Another potentially unpopular opinion of mine - I LOVE FONDANT!!! It's pretty, and the fondant I've had actually tastes good.)
This is just the start of my NO list. I'm feeling like I am kinda picky, but I want a unique-to-us day, not a blog/picture-perfect day. Something that will be fun, but still a little fancy.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Starting the Wedding Craziness
Number 1 awesome thing about being engaged: The love pouring out from everyone!
Number 2: being able to talk to Dino about weddings and not seem crazy. However, the worst part is everyone is dying to hear details about the wedding... Details we haven't even started to sort out!
Our first detail to tackle is the date. When to have it! We have agreed that sometime warm where there is a good chance of good weather is super important. So late July through early September. Then we need to decide if we can pull this shindig together in just 6 or so months, or if we want to wait 18. The jury is still out on that one.
We're currently in the beginning stages of buying a house - as in, just about ready to jump in and do the serious searching. So, as you might expect, we're a little preoccupied. We would like to find somewhere before June, as his lease expires then. I'm not certain either of us will have the time or motivation to do wedding things when we'll be busy looking at houses and eventually packing up and moving. But we don't want to wait eternity (18 months seems so far away!). But I also kind of want to have an engaged Christmas. If you can't tell, we're totally conflicted. Which makes it confusing to tell people "We're getting married! Either this year or a year and a half from now!" And Dino says he has decided to spend his life with me, so why does he have to wait so long? (Then I start talking about details and he gets overwhelmed with how much actually goes into a wedding!)
So here we are, undecided, but so so happy!
Like the Grinch, my heart has grown so much! (image from clker.com)
Number 2: being able to talk to Dino about weddings and not seem crazy. However, the worst part is everyone is dying to hear details about the wedding... Details we haven't even started to sort out!
Our first detail to tackle is the date. When to have it! We have agreed that sometime warm where there is a good chance of good weather is super important. So late July through early September. Then we need to decide if we can pull this shindig together in just 6 or so months, or if we want to wait 18. The jury is still out on that one.
We want the weather to look like this... (image from restaurants.uptake.com)
Not this. (image from komonews.com)
We're currently in the beginning stages of buying a house - as in, just about ready to jump in and do the serious searching. So, as you might expect, we're a little preoccupied. We would like to find somewhere before June, as his lease expires then. I'm not certain either of us will have the time or motivation to do wedding things when we'll be busy looking at houses and eventually packing up and moving. But we don't want to wait eternity (18 months seems so far away!). But I also kind of want to have an engaged Christmas. If you can't tell, we're totally conflicted. Which makes it confusing to tell people "We're getting married! Either this year or a year and a half from now!" And Dino says he has decided to spend his life with me, so why does he have to wait so long? (Then I start talking about details and he gets overwhelmed with how much actually goes into a wedding!)
So here we are, undecided, but so so happy!
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Wouldn't ya know it...
Wow, I managed to ignore this for a long time! I found myself reading other peoples' blogs, chatting online with other waiting ladies, and just trying not to make myself miserable thinking of things that could be, will be, and are off in the future at some undetermined date. I even made a pact with myself to not worry about it or bring it up or anything until after February was over. Well, I am beyond ecstatic to report that the waiting game is OVER!
Because it is so fun to get caught up in the romance, let me retell my proposal (eeek!) story for you! At the beginning of the month, we left for a 10 day trip to Hawaii with Dino's family. We stayed in a beautiful house, enjoyed amazing sunsets, ate ridiculously well (boy is his brother a good chef! Glad he was willing to cook for us every day!), had wonderful adventures, and spent a whole lot of time relaxing and soaking up some much needed sun. We went to a couple of beaches, but they were mostly hike in beaches (leaving us gross and dirty) or rocky or windy or just generally not perfect. That is, until our last day there. We went to a beach that nearly rivaled Australian beaches. It was beautiful, soft sand, water we could actually play in, and perfect weather. We body surfed, sunbathed, snacked, and I even got some pictures of whales! By about noon, though, I was getting a little more burnt than I liked, so we moved into a shadier, less crowded spot a little further from the water. We were just talking, and it looked like we might all have been getting a little crispy and ready to leave, when Dino said "I've been waiting for the perfect time all week to do this" and reached into his camera ring, pulling out something small and shiny. He continued "Will you marry me?" to which I eloquently replied "Really? Really? Are you serious? You're serious right now?" He got me to say "Yes!" though, and placed the ring on my finger.
I was so so shocked! I didn't think he was even thinking about it, let alone buying a ring and toting it around on vacation with us! He was so sneaky too, and managed to surprise me in the biggest and best way ever! I think I was a bit in a daze for at least the rest of the day, if not still in a daze 3 days later now!
So a couple minutes later, his dad walked over to tell us we were thinking about heading out, and Dino told him the good news! His dad didn't seem super surprised, but very happy, and told us that prior to leaving for vacation he was telling people that he might just marry us in Hawaii, since he is a pastor. His mom was so excited too, it was wonderful. She exclaimed "I'm going to get a daughter-in-law!" and was proudly telling everyone we met that we just got engaged. Dino had told his brother the night before, since he was getting a little nervous about getting down to the last day of vacation and trying to find the perfect moment. So his brother wasn't surprised, but was happy for us also (although that might be just because it'll distract their relatives from bugging him about settling down for a bit!).
It was so weird, so amazing, and so wonderful. We didn't have very good cell reception, so I could only text (it took several tries too, ugh!) my parents and best friend, but their excitement was so wonderful. In fact, the response from everyone has blown me away. I knew people would congratulate us, but so many people are beyond excited for us, it is truly making me feel so loved. I've very rarely received flowers before, but my office gave me some beautiful flowers the day I got back (yesterday), and then my FIANCE brought me flowers last night also, something he's only done once before! Not to mention the fabulous new bling I'm sporting now. Emerald cut, just over half a carat, sparkly and beautiful, currently in a "presentation setting" I believe he called it, soon to be placed into a fun, vintage-y inspired setting of our choosing.
Good golly I love that man. And I love the way he proposed. And I love that I have a Fiance now and am ENGAGED!!!
We haven't nailed any details down yet (except for the florist! My friend in Australia is officially my first vendor, as she offered to do my flowers as a gift. What a wonderful wonderful gift and friend!!!), as it has only been 3 days, but for now I think we're just reveling in the excitement, the love, the new titles, and our celebration. But I can't wait to dive in and put a wedding together!
Because it is so fun to get caught up in the romance, let me retell my proposal (eeek!) story for you! At the beginning of the month, we left for a 10 day trip to Hawaii with Dino's family. We stayed in a beautiful house, enjoyed amazing sunsets, ate ridiculously well (boy is his brother a good chef! Glad he was willing to cook for us every day!), had wonderful adventures, and spent a whole lot of time relaxing and soaking up some much needed sun. We went to a couple of beaches, but they were mostly hike in beaches (leaving us gross and dirty) or rocky or windy or just generally not perfect. That is, until our last day there. We went to a beach that nearly rivaled Australian beaches. It was beautiful, soft sand, water we could actually play in, and perfect weather. We body surfed, sunbathed, snacked, and I even got some pictures of whales! By about noon, though, I was getting a little more burnt than I liked, so we moved into a shadier, less crowded spot a little further from the water. We were just talking, and it looked like we might all have been getting a little crispy and ready to leave, when Dino said "I've been waiting for the perfect time all week to do this" and reached into his camera ring, pulling out something small and shiny. He continued "Will you marry me?" to which I eloquently replied "Really? Really? Are you serious? You're serious right now?" He got me to say "Yes!" though, and placed the ring on my finger.
I was so so shocked! I didn't think he was even thinking about it, let alone buying a ring and toting it around on vacation with us! He was so sneaky too, and managed to surprise me in the biggest and best way ever! I think I was a bit in a daze for at least the rest of the day, if not still in a daze 3 days later now!
So a couple minutes later, his dad walked over to tell us we were thinking about heading out, and Dino told him the good news! His dad didn't seem super surprised, but very happy, and told us that prior to leaving for vacation he was telling people that he might just marry us in Hawaii, since he is a pastor. His mom was so excited too, it was wonderful. She exclaimed "I'm going to get a daughter-in-law!" and was proudly telling everyone we met that we just got engaged. Dino had told his brother the night before, since he was getting a little nervous about getting down to the last day of vacation and trying to find the perfect moment. So his brother wasn't surprised, but was happy for us also (although that might be just because it'll distract their relatives from bugging him about settling down for a bit!).
It was so weird, so amazing, and so wonderful. We didn't have very good cell reception, so I could only text (it took several tries too, ugh!) my parents and best friend, but their excitement was so wonderful. In fact, the response from everyone has blown me away. I knew people would congratulate us, but so many people are beyond excited for us, it is truly making me feel so loved. I've very rarely received flowers before, but my office gave me some beautiful flowers the day I got back (yesterday), and then my FIANCE brought me flowers last night also, something he's only done once before! Not to mention the fabulous new bling I'm sporting now. Emerald cut, just over half a carat, sparkly and beautiful, currently in a "presentation setting" I believe he called it, soon to be placed into a fun, vintage-y inspired setting of our choosing.
Good golly I love that man. And I love the way he proposed. And I love that I have a Fiance now and am ENGAGED!!!
We haven't nailed any details down yet (except for the florist! My friend in Australia is officially my first vendor, as she offered to do my flowers as a gift. What a wonderful wonderful gift and friend!!!), as it has only been 3 days, but for now I think we're just reveling in the excitement, the love, the new titles, and our celebration. But I can't wait to dive in and put a wedding together!
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