The Ladies Weekend: Bachelorette Party, Part 3

I am going back and forth between bachelorette party posts and recaps, I realize. But I want to give you the wedding recaps with actual photos from my fabulous photographer, Dorothy Hatchel and I can't do that just yet. So party posts [and other pre-wedding posts that never made it to the blogosphere!] will have to hold you over!

MY FABULOUS LADIES AND I IN FRONT OF MR. TOAD!

After a full day at the Happiest Place on Earth, my ladies and I ventured over to Disney's California Adventure for dinner at Ariel's Grotto and to see the magnificent show World of Color. Disney has a very good promotion going on where you can have dinner at one of their restaurants and get a fastpass to see WOC- cutting out sitting around for a couple of hours. So knowing that we had a section waiting specifically for us, the girls and I took our time at dinner. The spread at Ariel's Grotto was pretty decent- it's a present menu, but it included an appetizer, dinner and a dessert tray. We got started with a vegetable anti-pasti tray with fresh fruit, grilled vegetables, a selection of cheeses and some darn good salad. After that came our main course of tri tip cooked over rock salt [very good!] and we finished out our time at the Grotto with a beautiful tray of desserts. There was more fruit, mini tiramisu cups, macaroons and some tasty tarts- I was in heaven!

DINNER AT ARIEL'S GROTTO WITH MY LADIES!

After letting our food settle, we grabbed our fastpasses from our waitress and made our way over to the pier where WOC comes to life. There were hundreds of people already waiting, but we managed to have a fabulous view thanks to our fastpasses. About fifteen minutes before showtime Disney castmembers came out and got the crowd involved in a little singing contest. My favorite part of this little preview was the amazing larger than life puppets that surfed through the crowd. Tigger, Genie, Sebastian and Mike all danced and sang along with the castmembers- silly, but fun.

WAITING FOR WORLD OF COLOR

After the mini-show it was time for the main event: World of Color. Let me say that there are no words that can describe the beauty and imagery that cascades in front of you during this show. I immediately had tears in my eyes- at the very first upshoot of water. Some have critized WOC of not having a consistant storyline, but any true Disney fanatic knows that World of Color is a tribute to the show of the same name produced by Walt Disney in the sixties. WOC is meant to act as a showcase- to show you what Disney can do and how amazing their technology really is and how amazing their imagineers are. Needless to say, Disney is fabulous and they know what they're doing. I was amazed at the beauty and precision of the show- two big thumbs up for Disney as it was my favorite part of the trip.

After WOC it was time to retire for the evening because really- there is no topping that experience.

Up next: Characters galore!

Bittersweet Symphony: The Rehearsal

I woke up Saturday morning and prepared myself for my last day as a single lady. I was trying to make sure that everything was done and that there would be no last minute loose ends to tie up. I remembered that I had to finish my online application for graduate school before I did anything else and so wandered around the house patiently while I waited for Mr. Yankee's friends to wake up. Note to Brides to Be- Do not, I repeat do not try to apply to graduate school the month of your wedding. Your brain will be mush. Just as I finished up the application my MOH arrived to take to me to a "surprise" in town. I was a little apprehensive- still feeling like I was missing something or forgetting to do something and that I was going to get frazzled if I left the house before the rehearsal. Alas, I let the control freak inside of me go and went with my MOH like I was told. And I was so happy I did because my fabulous friend got me a massage!!! So I took the hour to just let everything go- the wedding, the grad school application and the fact that my ankle was 4 sizes too big [which is a story that won't be told here, sorry!].

After the massage I was refreshed and relaxed- ready to tackle the rehearsal day full speed. I was finishing up some last minute things when I realized how close we were getting to rehearsal time. Eek! So I hobbled upstairs and started getting ready and had Mr. Yankee's friends drop me at my mom's house to pick up her car. I arrived exactly on time [to my great surprise] and we started to rehearse!

EVERYONE LINING UP

I have to say, rehearsing was a lot of fun. I was kind of nervous after reading all the wedding blogs about how chaotic the rehearsal can get. Maybe it was because we had a smaller wedding party. Maybe it was because our wedding party just truly rocked- either way, it was a gas! Jokes were flying, tears were flowing and everyone knew exactly where they needed to be. It was excellent.

ALL OF OUR FABULOUS FRIENDS GETTING READY FOR THE BIG WALK!

Once we rehearsed a few times, Mr. Yankee and I decided to disperse with our friends. He would take his friends to a late lunch, I would check into my suite and make sure my dress was hung properly. Of course, losing my mind right before the wedding, I remembered that I had forgotten a few key items back home. Luckily, Bridesmaid J had also forgotten a few items and so we rode together back our houses and told everyone we'd meet them at the rehearsal dinner.

ONLY MY FRIENDS WOULD HOP INTO AN EMPTY TUB!

Did you have a good time at your rehearsal?!



Next Up: We eat!

[all photos are personal]

The Ladies Weekend: Bachelorette Party, Part 2

PERSONAL PHOTO

Saturday morning the ladies and I dragged ourselves out of bed, changed into our Bachelorette Party gear and hopped on our early morning flight to John Wayne Airport. As soon as we touched down a shot of excitement soared through me and I couldn't wait to get to the park. After grabbing a shuttle and dropping off our bags we made our way over to the most beautiful place in the world and met up with Bridesmaid A's friend who so graciously signed us in.

The sun was shining, the music was as timeless as ever and of course there was that wonderful Disney smell that was in the air. We made our way through out the park and grabbed our fastpass for Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy. There was a little sign in front of the entrance that stated the ride might be too scary for children, but the girls and I thought nothing of it. Space Mountain is usually a scary ride for kids- its fast, in the dark with lots of fast twists and turns. We didn't think the Ghost portion was going to do anything to increase its spookiness- I mean this is Disney, we're talking about. WRONG!

Let me just tell you that Ghost Galaxy is TERRIFYING!! I don't think I have ever screamed so loud on a ride in my life. It was absolutely without the question the most scary ride I have ever been on. I am sure there is a youtube video of it somewhere- if you have the guts, google it. But let me be clear that it is nothing to be played around with! It is spooky!

After practically losing our voices on Space Mountain [and most of us declaring our decision to never ride it again] we grabbed some lunch and enjoyed the park until it was time to head over to DCA [that's Disney's California Adventure for you non Disney folk] for our dinner at Ariel's Grotto and the majestic show that is World of Color.

Up next: Dinner at Ariel's Grotto and WORLD OF COLOR!

The Ladies Weekend: Bachelorette Party; Part 1

Authors Note: I interrupt the wedding recaps to share some much belated pre-wedding posts I've been meaning to share. Enjoy!

I realized that I promised you pictures from the bachelorette party- between battling a cold and falling down some stairs [another story for another post] and the craziness that is the week of a wedding I just never got the chance to sit down and write out the details... Forgive me! But alas- here were are about two weeks post wedding and five weeks post bachelorette party and I finally have the time to gab about all the fabulousness that was the Bachelorette Party!

The party started Friday night with my Maid of Honor picking everyone up and driving us to her friend's house which was closer to the airport. Because we were flying out so early the next morning, MOH thought it might be a good idea to sleep a little closer. We arrived a little before 10, had a few welcome drinks with her friend and proceeded to open our goodie bags.. And let me tell you- they were fabulous!

PERSONAL PHOTO- HOW AWESOME IS THAT SHIRT?

Inside the bags were candies, necklaces, buttons and matching shirts. We made the executive decision that everyone would wear their shirts our first day in Disneyland. Finally at about midnight we decided it was time to get some sleep. Making sure the alarms were set for 4am, we changed into our jammies and grabbed some shut eye.

What did you do for your bachelorette party?

Next Up: Disneyland, Day 1

Bittersweet Symphony.. Recap Part One: The Welcome Dinner

Author's Note: I walked down the aisle to the instrumental version of The Verve's Bittersweet Symphony [and heard it twice while we were on our honeymoon!]. I love the classical string in the song and feel that it was truly meant to be my song. So to tie all of my recap posts together, I will start each with the title of Bittersweet Symphony. I hope you enjoy the recaps as much as I enjoy sharing them with you! :o)

While I wait for the professional photos from the awesome, amazing, beautiful and very talented Dorothy Hatchel- I thought I'd share the details of our wedding weekend starting with our Welcome Dinner.

Our wedding weekend officially began the Friday before the wedding, where we had a "Welcome Dinner" for the family and wedding party. Being that I had some aunts fly in from out of town and members of the wedding party that didn't know each other very well, I thought it would be a good idea for everyone to get together in a relaxed environment and hang out. I was hoping it would be an opportunity to break the ice and while the house remained somewhat divided, I was happy everyone came together.

The dinner was held at my moms house, with her husband the creative chef at the helm for food. Since Mr.Yankee is Japanese, our chef was really insistent on combining the flavors of the east and west into the dinner menu. For some reason, J [my mom's husband] thought it would be a good idea to make a sushi pizza- combining Japanese and Italian cuisine... That was until my mom and I explained that we were German/Irish and not Italian. J thought this was impossible because my mom was from back east... I guess everyone from New Jersey/New York is Italian.

Luckily we had a pretty normal menu... but one thing J decided we had to have was Balut... If you'd like to know more about it, click here.... While I respect the cultural aspect of the dish, the idea of it makes my stomach churn... But the boys [and one of my rock star bridesmaids] took part in sucking down the egg. Their opinion? It was more gross looking than anything else and a little chewy. Still not enough for me to try it, but who am I to stop someone else?!

After dinner Mr. Yankee, myself and two of Mr. Yankee's groomsmen made the trip back to our condo where there were some drinks and conversation. At about midnight I was done for the evening and went to bed, trying to prepare myself for the rehearsal on Saturday.

...Did any other brides have a welcome event for their friends and family?

Next Up: We Rehearse!

And I'm married.

That's right, folks. I am now officialy MRS. Yankee. It is still surreal to think of myself as someone's wife. Or to think I have a husband. It was especially weird when we touched down in Florence [our first honeymoon stop] and our ride was no where to be found. I had to call our car service and I couldn't understand what the guy was asking for and I simply said, "Here I'll let you talk to my husband.." There was definitely a lump in my throat..and an odd look from the husband.

I will be writing recaps as soon as I get back into the groove of things... The wedding was beautiful and it went by very fast, but I think I did a decent job of soaking everything in. The one word I would use to describe our wedding day? Joyful. Everyone was so genuinely happy and I felt such absolute love from everyone. I was so humble and honored to be around such amazing people- all of our family and friends made the day something I will truly cherish and remember for the rest of my life.

So to those of you who made it all possible- thank you. I love you. You will always be the most important people in my life.

~ MRS. Yankee :o)

Gee wilickers, Batman!

It's the beginning of the end. After arriving home from my bachelorette party last weekend, I instinctively knew that it was go time. There are 15 days left until the wedding. 15 days.... That is just creepy! I have been planning this wedding for almost two years and now we're just days away?! Goodness.

What have I been doing to get ready for this shindig?! Well I've been cutting menus and programs, making sure I had an .mp3 of my entrance song, created a wedding day play list for us girls while we're getting our hair done. I've made a few appointments for last minute hair touch ups and been pulling my hair out over the seating chart. Brian and I created our wedding wish tree [such an adventure!] and looked into more wine for the wedding. I've worked on the dreaded wedding day timeline and tracked down missing RSVPs. Seriously, people- if you're invited to a wedding RSVP before the response date. You know why?! 1. Etiquette stipulates that if there was no RSVP the guest isn't coming [so imagine how surprised the Bride and Groom will be to see you there when they expected you not to attend] and 2. The Bride and Groom have better things to do 3 weeks before the wedding than to track down your meal choice. Even you if are completely positive that the Bride and Groom knows your coming, send your RSVP- we aren't mind readers and need to know what you would like to eat, mkay?!

But mostly I've just been trying to get mentally prepared for the big day. It's going to be emotional and exhausting, but also loads of fun! I am also getting ready for my honeymoon in Italy!! I am so ridiculously excited about visiting Europe I can barely see straight. I plan to eat tons of gelato, drink lots of wine and take a million pictures.

I promise pictures of the bachelorette party soon- I am battling a cold right now so most of my energy is being put towards getting healthy so I can focus and have fun come game day :o)

Invitations: The Reveal

I know I've rambled on and on about all the paper choices we've made and how hard it was to come to each and every decision. But listening [or reading in this case] to all of my babble is going to pay off. Why? Because with the RSVP deadline looming [Friday for all you slackers out there!], I figured everyone has seen what they look like.

As I mentioned before, Mr. Yankee and I went through the online dealer fourth and folded. Chelsea was an absolute dream to work with and responded to my multitude of emails with grace and efficiency. I am not joking when I say I have some of the best vendors in town. They really do rock my socks.

..Okay so enough yammering, right?! I present to you our invitations!

I gave her my ring, she gave me a piece of paper! [The Sequel]

Since there seems to be a trend in sequels in Hollywood these days [I mean really, did the Chipmunks need a 'squeakquel'?], I thought it fitting to share my wedding related sequel. No, my ring did not break again. Though I did have to fork over my engagement ring for the second time in exchange for a piece of paper it had nothing to do with being broken. It had to be re sized. Apparently, when you have an engagement ring and a wedding ring, they both should be a bit larger than normal so your fingers don't get all puffy and nasty. Who knew?!

As the nice saleslady was filling out my paperwork she asked me the estimated value of my engagement ring. Ergh... Awkward?! I have no idea! I never asked Mr. Yankee how much he spent on the ring [I only made sure he didn't over extend himself] and I could only guesstimate on its value based on the specs he gave me. But seriously- do other brides to be out there know the exactly dollar amount their fiances spent on a ring?! I guess I should know for insurance purposes, but I always felt that ring shopping, purchasing and presenting were all a part of the guys preparation for marriage.. Why spoil it by requesting a blow by blow account of the purchase?!

After I gave her my estimate she very nonchalantly said they request the information because they cannot control UPS and they need to make sure they have the right dollar amount in case it needs to be replaced. I tried to laugh it off like an impossibility when she looked at me and said "It's happened before."
WHAT?! Why, why would you tell that to a customer?! Especially a bride to be! For all she knew I could have been one walking hissy fit waiting to happen. It made me nervous, but I decided to let it go and keep my fingers crossed that it doesn't happen to me and mine.

So there you have it, folks. I gave some lady my ring[s] and received a piece of a paper and a cautionary tale that the UPS has lost their packages before. Yay!

Any other brides out there have to give up their ring multiple times?!

Bachelorette Party Cometh!

In t-minus ten days I will be on my way to my bachelorette party... in DISNEYLAND! I find myself constantly surprised that it is coming up so soon. But that doesn't mean I am any less excited! These pre-wedding events keep reminding me just exactly how close we really are to wedding day. Eek!

The current plan is to drive to down to one of my maid of honor's friends' house Friday night and sleep over. Early Saturday morning me, maid of honor yankee and two of my three bridesmaids are all hopping on a flight down to Orange county. As soon as we land we will head over to Paradise Pier, drop off our bags and trek over to the most magical, special, joy filled place ever! DISNEYLAND! [Can you tell I'm a little excited?]

So while Mr. Yankee jumps off a building, shoots guns and drinks himself silly, I will be sitting through Haunted Mansion Holiday, eating at Rancho del Zocalo and making my friends wait for ridiculously long periods to watch World of Color with me.

I have no idea what else is in store, but I am sure we will have a great time. I know the girls hope to get me smashed while in Southern California, but I am hoping to save the drunk fest for when we return and can have more participants. And I hope my bridesmaids will look at this time as a mini vacation rather than a "bachelorette" party. It will be nice to hang out, recharge and experience the awesomeness that is Disneyland together.

SOURCE

Name change debate... Not so much of a debate.

I read wedding blogs all the time. I utilize the sites for ideas of what to do and things to avoid and to make sure I am staying on task. One of the major themes in the wedding blog community is the idea of changing your name. I have read countless [at least a dozen] posts arguing back and forth as to why or how or in what manner a name change should take place. I've read stories of brides who get rid of their middle name, hyphen their last name and the ever amusing combo of both last names for both the bride and the groom.

When it came time to fill out our marriage license I wrote it without even thinking. I wrote my middle name and Mr. Yankee's last name. That was it. There was no fuss, no inner turmoil or angst. I was going to take his name- and there was really anything anyone could do about it.

Sure- I have my undergraduate degree in my maiden name and it's going to be a PITA to change everything over. But I am a traditionalist in the realist sense- Mr. Yankee is the man that I am going to spend the rest of my life with. If, I repeat IF we have children they will most certainly carry his last name. So why would I NOT choose his last name? I have no real bond to my last name. It carries no special meaning or weight with me. My mom doesn't have it.

This isn't to say that women shouldn't keep their maiden name. I am sure for every woman it is very different. And I am confident that for many women it is an intensely personal decision, racked with emotion, confusion and a sense of mandated loyalty. But for me- it was about joining my life with Mr. Yankee. To me it signifies the change from us being a dedicated couple who live together to a married couple. A family. Nothing else will really change after we get married- except for my name. And I couldn't ask for a better symbol of unity and family. To share the name of my hubby.

Any brides out there making the switch?! Was it an easy decision for you to make?!

We're Licensed!

PERSONAL PHOTO- HE LOOKS SO EXCITED, NO?

It is official! Mr. Yankee and I can actually, legally and truly get married. I am so excited, giddy, nervous, humbled and honored that we are almost at the close of this process. It really hit home for me that this is it- we are in the home stretch.
I was also thinking of the history involved in Mr. Yankee and I obtaining our marriage license. The fact that we can run down to the Civic Center, write a check and obtain permission to get married is a blessing [and a quandary] onto itself. Being a history graduate, I can't help but think of all the inter racial couples who came before us who did not have the right to marry. It's sickening to think California banned the miscegenation of Asians and Whites until a 1948 court case overturned it. I am amazed that the government felt [and still feels in the case of homosexual couples] it has the right to stipulate who can get married and who cannot. How can a government entity dictate who we love?! How we love?! It's no one's business.
So while I am thankful for the ability to be able to marry the sweetest, most beautiful person I know, I also keep close to my heart all of those who do not share in the same privilege.

Loved!

That is the best way I can describe the feeling I had on Sunday. Absolutely, positively, whole heartedly loved. I was so grateful for everything that everyone did for me and I thank each and every one of you who made the journey to the party- I hope you had a great time.

JUST SOME OF THE FABULOUS WOMEN WHO ATTENDED

The day started with my hair and make up trial - done by the FABULOUS Lindsay - and I felt so absolutely pampered. She is utterly flawless in her make up and hair; Lindsay has a real eye for what looks good and her hands just seem to sculpt you into a fabulous creation.

Then the ladies started to arrive and we enjoyed good conversation, great food and beautiful weather. I was so happy that everyone was able to make it and enjoy themselves. And again- so grateful to the wonderful women who threw the shower for me.

I loved the shower. It was a time for the women in my life to come together and bond. And I liked that it was just that- women coming together and bonding. It was relaxing and made this whole wedding thing real. I had to keep repeating to myself "This is a bridal shower. For me. I'm a bride. What the hell?" I fought back a lot of tears of joy [but couldn't fight them all] and really spent the day taking in the company of these wonderful women.

So, again I say Thank You!! I felt love like I've never felt before and am so excited about October. Thank you!!!

Wedding Induced Obsession: Shoes

Before this whole wedding planning thing started, I was pretty low maintenance. I hardly wore make up, had two pairs of jeans that I alternated between and wore the same tennis shoes pretty much every day I wasn't working. Since then?! Yeah- I've turned into a girl. Big time. The biggest change?! I am now in love with shoes!


During my outfit planning (for the shower, the rehearsal and of course the big day!), I scoured the internet for hours looking for the perfect shoes. I wanted my feet to look cute, sexy and playful- what better way to accomplish that then by getting fabulous shoes?! Some of my favorites?! Oh well just scroll down and take a gander...

Disobey - Steve Madden

JESSICA SIMPSON- ASTOR

 NINA SHOES- ELGA

Ahh.. shoes! I bought two out of the three I showed you- the Elga's I've written about before. And the Jessica Simpson Astor's?! Oh- perfection. My feet look tiny, they are comfortable and sexy as hell! I am telling you- I am a changed woman. I recently went into the city with my mom and was so excited to help her pick out shoes for the wedding. Of course, I was picking beautiful platform, peep toe heels- not exactly what she was looking for- but even my mom was looking at me with a funny look. After the wedding I hope to expand my shoe collection. It's official- this wedding is making me into a girly girl.

Any other ladies out there with a shoe obsession?

Still amazing...

::checks official countdown via Weddingwire:: Official countdown- 58 days! I still can't believe it's coming as fast as it is.
The next few weekends promise to be very hectic, but very exciting. I almost fell out of my chair yesterday when I realized my bridal shower was next weekend. Next weekend! Holy moly! Next weekend will also count as my official trial. The gorgeous, talented, super spunky stylist I call Lindsay will be manning the mane and the face. I am so excited about the look she will create for me- the girl is just BEYOND talented- for realz!
So what is on the calendar the next couple of weekends?! Well take a gander, shall we?!
This Weekend
Saturday- I am going to the city with my mommy! Where I hope to find my wedding day accessories (finally!) and recharge my self-doubting batteries.
Sunday- Off to Sea Ranch to spend some time with Mr. Yankee's family :o)
August 21/22
Saturday- Work on some DIY projects, prepare my thank you gifts to the hosts of my shower.
Sunday- Bridal shower! So excited to see all my friends and family :o) And, of course- my hair/make up trial
August 28/29
Saturday- First alterations appointment at 11am!
Sunday- I am going to celebrate my good friend Michelle's last Sunday being a single girl!
September 4/5
Saturday- Put together wedding wish tree, finish tissue pomanders and get all baskets done.
Sunday- The wedding of two of the most awesomist people in the world! JOSH AND MICHELLE!
September 11/12
Saturday & Sunday- Head down to Milpitas to have some non wedding related family time. Probably use Mr. Yankee's parents printer since it is super awesome to print menus, programs and other misc. paper.
September 17/18
Saturday-Monday: Bachelorette party in DISNEYLAND!!! And Mr. Yankee will be in Vegas. I am super excited about this for a couple of reasons:

1. World of Color!!!!!

2. Halloween Time!

3. The new dragon in FANTASMIC!

September 25/26
I am leaving this weekend open since I will probably have to have another/final alterations appointment. But I assume I will be calling late responders (so make sure you put the RSVP in the mail, k?!). I will also send out our Rehearsal Dinner invites!
October 2/3
Saturday- Seating chart! This will be my task to end all tasks.
Sunday- Finalize the wedding weekend timeline packet. Confirm details!
October 9/10
Saturday- Rehearse! Holy moly! And of course my final girls night of being a single girl!
Sunday- We get murried!!!!

..whew. I can't believe we're just a few weekends away. It's going to be fun, stressful, exciting and busy! Just the way I like it :o)

How did you get your mind around the last few weeks of singlehood?!

And there they go...

First of all I wanted to say a big CONGRATULATIONS!! to my fellow wedding blogger, Alyssa at Ring Around The Roses- today is her wedding day and I am sure she is going to be a beautiful bride. Have a great wedding, Alyssa- it's the start of a beautiful together!!!

Today is the day I let go of my beautiful wedding invitations. They have been labeled, stuffed, stamped and sitting a box ready to go for about two weeks. As excited as I am to put these babies in the mail, I am also kind of sad- these babies have been a labor of love. A lot of emails and a few moments of stress created what I think are the most gorgeous little pieces of paper known to weddings. I am so greatful for Chelsea at Fourth & Folded who responded quickly to my half a dozen emails and made me sit and think on the design for a few days before going through with the printing.

As you've read in my numerous paper posts, the invitations have been a massive evolution. When I first started planning I was determined to be simple and cheap. At the end of the process, they are beautiful and more than I wanted to spend, but bring me little flutters of happiness everytime I think of them and so I think they are worth it.

I will post a photo shoot of the invites next week, but here is a little teaser for you...

iphone photo- yes, I invited Mickey & Minnie- what?!

Did you fall in love with your invitations?

It all happens for a reason.

I've been vacant. I know. If you follow my personal blog then you already get a sense as to why I haven't been wedding crafts and blog posty feeling recently. It's been a hard couple of weeks, but I am doing my very best to let. it. go. and get back to enjoying this whole thing called wedding planning.

The biggest piece of news to break is that we received our invitations. And they are absolutely beautiful. I had a minor freak out when we received the wrong envelopes (and an even bigger freak out when everyone kept telling me it was no big deal. Just let a girl be irrational and crazy for 5 minutes, would you?), but Chelsea was an absolute gem and worked herself ragged to make sure we got the right envelopes by the end of the weekend. They are all currently stuffed and awaiting their trip to the post office- I was searching high and low for some pretty twine that wasn't going to cost an arm and a leg to tie it all together, but have since given up on that idea. They're pretty enough. I don't need to add anything, no matter how much I want to.

The countdown?! 72 days. Amazing how time has been flying since we hit the 100 day mark. I feel like before I am over with breakfast it will be time to get hitched. But I am not sweating the small stuff. If I have learned one thing about whats going on in my personal life is that everything happens for a reason. As much as I want to be able to control everything and plan everything out to the last detail, life will get in the way.

I guess what I am saying is that I am finally embracing the idea that life is what happens while you're busy making plans. So while I am still the type A, plan everything down to the minute control freak, I am also beginning to take a step back and just let it ride. Because no matter what happens I can't change it.


Any other brides out there learning some life lessons while in the midst of planning?!

You've GOT to be kidding!

I am going to forget for 5 minutes that I write this blog for people and rant. You heard that- I am about to rant my little butt off, so if you don't want to hear/read/deal with it- skip this entry right about now.

Planning a wedding is filled with the small things. All the little things that you normally wouldn't even let phase you suddenly become all you can think about. I imagine planning a wedding is a little bit how raising children can be- take an otherwise sane, normal person who is interested in plenty of activities and topics and once they start focusing on raising this child all else goes out the window. They become so concerned with what to do, how to do it and what other people will think that all other rationalization goes out the window.

Wedding planning... is stressful. I feel like that is the under statement of century. And because it's stressful I feel like you let yourself get ridiculously excited over stupid things. Example?! My invitations. I was so excited about these things for so many reasons.
It was the one thing about the wedding that I didn't have to compromise on. They were beautiful, in my budget and completely timeless. I felt like I could put them in a shadow box and look at them in 5, 10, 15 years and still find them beautiful and classic. They were also custom- not everyone and their mother was going to have these and therefore I felt special. And they had cute little touches that I came up to make them that much better.

I've waited patiently for these beautiful pieces of paper all week. I rushed home this afternoon after work and carefully cut the priority box open and was so excited- until I saw the envelopes. They were the wrong color. Instead of the rich chocolate brown they were supposed to be, they were green.

Stupid thing to be upset about, but I just felt like it was the tiny straw that was breaking the camels back. Unfortunately not much of this wedding planning has gone smoothly, despite my being organized and on top of things. And now I really just want to crawl into a hole and cry.

One piece of advice from brides out there: Evites. Problem solved.

SO over it...

Wedding planning, that is. At the time Mr. Yankee and I say "I Do," I'll have been planning this wedding for twenty-two months and three days. Yeah- twenty-two months and three days. I have thought and re-thought every decision, detail, vendor and color scheme imaginable and I am just ready for it to be over with. I try to remind myself every time I get in this mood that I need to step back and enjoy this time, but you can only enjoy budgeting and assembling and gathering so much before it starts to drive you insane.

SOURCE

Of course I was reading weddingbee this morning and it looks like another bride to be, Miss Taco, has been planning her wedding for quite some time and is so over it. Inspired by another Bee, she posted a list of things she was excited for Post Wedding. I think I will release some of wedding planning frustration and think of all the things I really can't wait for after wedding...

A Bride's Obsession: Paper- Part 2

In my last  paper post here, I discussed the obsession I was quickly developing with paper. Ready for the conclusion?! Waiting with breaths held, I'm sure.

So after becomming a crazy, paper obsessed wench of a bride to be and making the decision that absolutely nothing in the paper store would suffice, I bit the bullet and decided that I had to email an Etsy seller about her invitation designs. Again my love of weddingbee can be blamed for this desire. I saw a post by Miss French Fry on her invitations and just knew I had to have something like that. Especially if I couldn't have my pocketfolds.

SOURCE

The name of said designer?! Chelsey- from Fourth & Folded. Isn't her work just gorgeous?! As Anjela Johnson would say, "You so pweety! Like moduw." I emailed Chelsey and was told that she had a waiting list- of course!- but that if I was willing to wait, she would love to work with me. Score! I sat and waited for Chelsey to give me the green light; and let me just say- it was totally worth the wait! The design is just absolultely beautiful and I am so glad to be helping out an independent designer rather than a huge cookie cutter corporation like Hallmark or Crane.

Once we had the design, we had to decide whether we going to be DIYers and have them printed and assemble them ourselves or would we bite the bullet and have Chelsey finish her masterpiece?! After a lot of budget analysis and finger nail chewing, the decision was made to have Chelsey print them up and send them our way.

We are in the final stages of the invitation process and let me just say that I am so excited!! I cannot wait for them to mailed to our door step.


Did you get excited about any wedding details?!