All because two people fell in love...

Nuts over Napkins

2009-09-28T19:38:00.000-07:00

More input please! Thoughts on some of these napkin designs? Anyone know any inexpensive but fun cocktail napkin websites? A reminder: our colors are red, black, and creme.

Are those real or fake?

2009-09-28T19:16:00.000-07:00

Ok, I just couldn't help myself on the title... But in all seriousness. I need help! I can't decide on real or dried flower boutonnieres.. Look at this awesome one I found on Etsy...

Source

Showers on the Horizon

2009-09-13T19:49:00.000-07:00

Ok. I know my wedding is a little over 4 months away but some of my pre-wedding festivities are being held quite soon!

Our date of January 30 is perfect for a wedding, not so great for the pre-wedding festivities. My family and bridesmaids have decided that having the showers/parties earlier would be best so as not to meld too much into the holiday season.

I think this is a perfect idea and quite frankly, I am happy to have the party last a little longer :)

I head to Cleveland for a shower on Oct. 3rd! I am so excited! Here is a pic with my MOH/beautiful sister and my mom and aunt at my cousins wedding.

Fancy fan or not??

2009-09-11T10:30:00.000-07:00

I love Spanish fans. I think they are just gorgeous. I have been thinking of adding a little Spanish flair to my subtle 1920's inspired wedding (after all, we are getting married in FL and I am half Puerto Rican) but I haven't figured out just how to incorperate.

We are getting married in January . It will be warmer than most places but still not likely warm enough to make fans any necessity.

Nevertheless, I am considering them for the bridesmaids and myself or even just for some fun pictures. What do you think?? Here are some that I LOVE!

Source

I'mmmmm Baaacckkkk!

2009-09-11T10:03:00.001-07:00

I know, I know... I have taken a pretty big hiatus from the blogging world. Some close friends and family that read this will know that there have been some big big changes in my life lately. I have gotten several questions about whether I will blog about it. Unfortunately at this time, I still find it all to be too private and personal for me to divulge to the internet world.

I will leave it at this.

I haven't been much happier in my whole life. If I was writing a book on this chapter in my life, I wouldn't write it any other way.

A part of me wants to share this all with the world and I promise that you will get clues along the way with this wedding blog. I will share it all when the time is right. For now I leave you with a quote that I have shared much during this time.

There are two ways to live. One is though nothing is a miracle. The other is as if everything is. - Albert Einstein

Source

I like to remember my Einstein with a little crazy mixed in!

2009-07-23T11:06:00.001-07:00

First, please forgive me not having any photos on this post. I am on my way to Atlanta for my job.

I hope to still blog while I am on this trip but I can't make any promises.

Just to share, the trip I am on is a traveling course through the deep south on the Civil Rights Movement. It is a life changing experience.

Although this isn't bride related, I feel compelled to share some of it through the blog because this means so much to me and my relationship.

Well, we are off to Albany for a presentation of the Freedom Singers. We will be in Atlanta until Saturday morning.

My nights are free. Any ideas on things to do in downtown Atlanta?

Sooo Pretty...

2009-07-20T19:18:00.000-07:00

I love looking for wedding day jewelry! Look at these gorgeous pieces from Ross-Simons.

How Great is Gatsby?

2009-07-20T18:19:00.000-07:00

I am a big fan of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. I love the plot but there is something about that era. The very first time we stepped onto our location's grounds, I felt there was something very Gatsby about it. Now with our rehersal dinner set at a classic car museum that houses several 1930's Ringling family cars, there will certainly be some classic 1920-1930's flair.

While searching for possible rehersal dinner outfits (and thinking it will likely be theme optional) I was turned on to this site... (Thanks Wicked Frills!!!)

Check out these great dresses! Any faves?

http://www.nataya.com/

Something Blue!! The perfect cure to Naked Finger Syndrome.

2009-07-16T16:34:00.000-07:00

My Groomzilla is the sweetest ever!! As background, my wedding band came in a couple weeks ago. (I know, ooohhhh and aahhhhhs, believe me, I was ecstatic!). My elation turned to concern when I looked at the two rings together and something just looked off. Groomzilla agreed; so we sent the two rings back to the store in hopes that they could make them look right.

Well this meant a naked finger for me. Ladies, have you experienced this? When my ring is off my finger, I feel anxious. I have seconds where I rub its usual location with my thumb, realize it isn't there, and then go into full fledged panic mode thinking I lost it. Not fun.

Groomzilla recognized Naked Finger Syndrome and came to my rescue. On HIS birthday, before we went out to eat with his friends he used his early release from work to go to the store and buy me this...

It is even from my favorite crystal store, you might have heard of them :) Groomzilla is so amazing! I can't believe I have to wait 198 days to marry him!

Seven things I Learned as a Bride on a Budget

2009-07-14T17:19:00.000-07:00

Groomzilla and I are taking care of the majority of our wedding on our own. Therefore, some bridal budgeting has certainly been taking place. I thought I would share some everyday cost saving tips that I have learned along the way of being a Bride on a Budget...

1)Limit your Dining Out - Groomzilla and I have learned that the majority of our expendable income goes to dining out. We actually LOVE to dine out. Since both of us are extremely busy, dining out has become a convenient truth. A tip to dining out less it to plan quick and easy meals for during the week. This has really helped in our overall nights out on the town. I used to go to the grocery store on my way home from work so that the stuf was fresh. I have learned planning a whole week of meals keeps us from dining out during the week (when we are especially tired and inclined to dine out rather than cook). The sheer idea of wasting what we already purchased to cook keeps us from straying.

2) If you dine out, Join the Club! Let's face it, you don't have to be a bride on a budget to be ON a budget these days. A positive way this has impacted dining out is that many restaurants are offering amazing deals and coupons. If you plan on dining out, join the club! Most restaurants have offers to join their "clubs". They'll send you special deals and coupons via email that can save you tons! For instance I joined the Boizao Steakhouse club prior to dinner out with a group of friends celebrating Groomzilla's birthday. With the coupon I got for joining the club, we saved $250.00 for the 8 of us! It was great! The friends enjoyed it and we all liked saving a little cash. Be sure to check out all of you favorite restaurants websites for these amazing offers.

3) If you dine out, Don't Drink! This is really two-fold. 1) We have learned that waiting until after dinner to have a nightcap at home is actually really enjoyable. We have a dinner without the bottle of wine we usually might splurge on out on the town and get home safely to have a little drink to top off the evening. It goes without saying that drinks on the town are not bridal budget friendly. 2) If you dining out for lunch or a casual dinner, drink water. Most places charge around $2.00 for a soda. This is a great one because it also limits your calorie intake, which of course most brides are happy to be doing.

4)Find alternative to expensive nights out with friends. We have started inviting friends over

for dinner rather than going to an expensive restaurant. Also, we have hosted Wii game nights.

Everyone loves a little Mario Cart.

5) Buy an Entertainment Book. Most metro areas have these and they are packed full of

great savings. The Tampa area book has grocery store coupons. Although the coupons are not

for my favorite grocery store, I found that my fav, Publix, takes them! There is one coupon

for each month for $5.00 off $50.00. How great is that? The Entertainment Book has tons of

coupons for local restaurants, movie theaters, museums and the like. The book usually costs

no more than $20.00 which you will undoubtedly recoup. Use these coupons for budget friendly

date nights and outings with friends.

6) Ruined clothes? Think again. Save money on new rags by thinking outside the box on old

ones. For instance, I burned one of my favorite black dresses with the iron. It was right on the

lapel, a most obvious location. My cost free fix? I found an adorable costume clip-on earring I

had in my jewelry box (one I would likely never wear on my ear) and pinned it right over the

burned area. Who would know?? Well I guess now you do, but you're not telling right?

Actually, I even have gotten compliments on my beautiful "brooch". Now if only I can figure out

a solution to all those pairs of shoes this guy has eaten!

7) Stick together! Staying on budget for a wedding can be tough. Remember that you are in it

together. When one is about to give in to a splurge, the other should softly remind that it is only

a matter of time when bridal budget breakdowns will be a thing of the past and splurges are

commonplace.

Add to my list! What are your favorite bride on a budget tips?

August15bride has a giveaway!

2009-07-14T11:29:00.000-07:00

Check out august15bride's blog for an amazing giveaway! UPrinting is giving away a 16x20 print Rolled Canvas Print! What photo would you put on your new nests wall!

See the giveway HERE!!!

To Theme or Not to Theme?

2009-07-10T15:33:00.000-07:00

That is the question. A couple weeks ago, Groomzilla, The Wedding Planner, and I met with the rehersal dinner site again.

The date and time are confirmed and Groomzilla's parents are on board.. The question now turns to.. To theme or not to theme? As a reminder, we are having it at the Sarasota Classic Car Museum. Here is a photo...

Source

We have such a festive location it really lends itself to theme. We thought we would go with 1920's-1930's inspired which really plays a perfect seguey to our wedding location.

I know that all of my bridesmaids are all about the theme. They are already planning out their hair and dresses.

Source

Bridesmaids aside, what do you think about a theme at the rehersal dinner?

Our thoughts are to make it "theme optional" so that people won't feel like they have to dress in theme. What do you think?? Also, have any great websites with 1920's-1930's style inspired dresses you'd recommend?

Let them eat...

2009-07-10T14:52:00.000-07:00

Cake! Some of you might have already read my post about my mom being an expert cake baker.. She has been making birthday cakes for me since before I could walk.

When mom came to visit several weeks ago she realized the logistical difficulty in getting a dressed up wedding cake to Sarasota in the back of a Mini Cooper. She won't be making the wedding cake but she is committed to making me a cake for one of my parties in the Midwest. (She just doesn't know it yet, LOL).

The Wedding Planner told us about an amazing lady that does cakes in Sarasota. Her prices are VERY reasonable and she is sooo talented.

Groomzilla, The Wedding Planner, and I met with last Friday. She is such a doll!! She has amazing creations and did I mention the price?? We are so excited to have another check off our list!

Our cake will be a combination of these two designs...

Honey, we'll have a honeymoon!!! BOOKED!

2009-07-01T18:05:00.000-07:00

I have a traveler's soul. The most consistent thing about me is that I love to travel. I mean I LOVE to travel. So the thought of a honeymoon got my travel tastebuds all excited!

Groomzilla and I initially decided that we would have a "staycation" for our honeymoon. We thought being from Florida, we were perfectly capable of finding an amazing place right here near home. Then we remembered, a Florida vacation in February sounds extremely appealing to Northerners but for us Florida people, we like it a little warmer. LOL. 65 degrees just won't do (enter envious grumbles from my Northern family members).

When I got to searching, I came across a great resort in St. Lucia. Now all I needed was Groomzilla to sign on to it. When Groomzilla looked at the website, he quickly decided that upgrading our room to one with a private pool was a must. Oh geeze, here he goes again (I say in my most endearing voice).

Well needless to say, I was back to the drawing board (or in this case, my favorite trip planning website, Tripadvisor). For some reason, all of a sudden Acapulco, Mexico entered my head. I quickly did a search on my favorite travel websites.

What did I find??

Las Brisas Resort in Acapulco, Mexico!!!!

Right after Groomzilla got into his head that we "needed" a private pool. I found a goldmine.

Las Brisas has something like 200 private and semi-private pools. Immediately I found out that a private pool casita for 7 nights 8 days and flights to Acapulco were comfortably in our budget. What!?!

Las Brisas is located a little outside of the city but within a 15 minute drive. The casitas are situated up the side of a cliff. The higher you are on the cliff, the better the view and the more private. They label the levels up the hill by numbers 1-5. Levels 4 and 5 are the highest and most exclusive. It was an even more pleasent surprise when we realized that we could get one of these rooms. These rooms are refered to the Brisas Beach Club and include an afternoon snack and wine. All rooms include breakfast each morning brought directly to your casita. They put the breakfast in a double door compartment so they don't have to bother you.

The private pools are just that! These aren't your average "plunge" pool that are a hair better than a bathtub. You can actually swim in these! This is perfect for Groomzilla and I. I will be swimming around in the pool while he sits under the tent with a cigar (the resort even has a cigar shop).

Of course, these pools over look the amazing Acapulco Bay. With a private pool and patio awaiting you right outside your room, who needs to venture out??

Of course, if we do venture out, we have the benefit of the Las Brisas Jeeps to take us around the resort. The jeeps can take you to the Las Brisas Beach Club which includes two natural pools and a freshwater pool.

Finally, we always can head into the city and watch the world famous cliff divers!

Source

Let there be Light!

2009-06-27T17:55:00.000-07:00

I have been stressing about centerpieces! I know, there is plenty of time between now and my wedding to find centerpieces but for some reason, I couldn't get them off my mind.

Our wedding location does not have tons of lighting. It was suggested that our centerpieces provide additional lighting. With the theme of the wedding and the overall look of the venue, I decided that lanterns would look amazing.

Can I just tell you, finding lanterns is tough! I searched all over the web, through popular stores, ect. but found nothing that I LOVED and was within our budget. Forever trying to find the best deal but LOVE what my end product is, I was frustrated by the amount of time this was taking.
Enter Planner/BFF for the next 7 months. She mentioned that she saw gorgeous lanterns at and they would be within our budget! The very next day my lunch break was used to find such lanterns. When I saw them, I fell in LOVE. Cautiously, I purchased one to show Groomzilla. After all, he also was looking for such lanterns and I knew he'd want to see what I came up with.

Groomzilla approved so now I was on a mission to find enough for all my tables. It took 4 trips and 4 different stores before we found enough! One specific trip was too funny to not share.
August15bride and I went shopping on our lunch break. We found 13 at that store and piled them into the back of my Mini Cooper. She suggests, might the candles melt in my car? Dismissing this, we head into our office for the rest of the afternoon.

After work, I headed to my car, opened the door, and I was instantly hit by a massive smell bomb of melted citronella candle! LOL. She was oh so right! As I drove home, all I could think of was that if I got pulled over, I was going to tell the police officer I was on my way to girl scout camp. The evidence would clearly resignate through the window and could be seen piled in the back of my Cooper. LOL Certainly a lady on her way to girl scout camp shouldn't get a ticket. :)

Luckily, I wasn't pulled over and luckily, my intention were never to use the candles that came in the lanterns. We will get red candles to match our colors. I am happy to report that we purchased all the lanterns needed and I am on to obsess about other things..

Here's a photo! Photo compliments of Groomzilla...

I Got My First Blog Award!!

2009-06-27T16:11:00.000-07:00

I am proud to announce I got my first blog award!! August15bride nominated me for the Lovely Blog Award!! Thanks lady!! Today is her bridal shower! Well wishes for a memorable shower!

Now I pass the torch to 9 Lovely Blogs...

1. A Classy, Catholic, Southern Bride

2. My Dream Ring

3. a small town bride

4. Soon to be Mrs. G

5. just lovely

6. The Almost Anti-Bride

7. From Ms. to Mrs.

8. Blushing Bride

9. Bridezilla? I Think Not!!!

I Found My Dress!!!

2009-06-16T18:59:00.000-07:00

If you were in the Tampa Bay area on Saturday, June 13 and heard a long loud screetchy, shrilly sound, I apologize. I FOUND MY WEDDING DRESS!!! The scream was all but necessary. This was not an easy process ladies!

Going into the search, I never thought it would be so hard to find the dress of my dreams. To be honest, I never really had these dreams. Maybe that was my problem. Going into the search I had no idea what style I liked. I had some ideas of what styles complimented me best but no thoughts on theme or fabric.

I went to 6 different bridal shops and tried on over 50 dresses. I had five favorite dresses that I had pictures of me in. I sent these pictures to my trusted advisors (close friends and bridesmaids) and so thoughtfully talked about such dresses as #2 or #5 referencing when they came up in the series of pictures. All 5 of these dresses had a very similar style.

Then I had a minor set back; a moment I am not proud of. Yes, I had a minor bride meltdown. Groomzilla and I had a deep conversation about whether men can wear cream under black suits. This was sparked by the fact that I had not bought my dress and did not know what color it was going to be. Groomzilla and I agreed that the dress should be bought before we determine the men's attire and therefore, enter bridal meltdown. The pressure was on.

This was a Monday. I was determined to get to a dress shop and get some of that fine designer material around my little body if it was the last thing I did! I called a bridesmaid who so diligently met me for my dress search therapy.

Dang. I fell in love with another dress. Worse, this dress was COMPLETELY different than the other 5 dresses. Argh! It seems that I was back to the drawing board.

So this time, I went big time. One of the biggest bridal stores in Florida, CC's Bridal. I've heard a lot about CC's but was hesitant to go in there. You see, they have all the big designers and the big price tags to boot. I already fell in love with a dress outside of my budget so I was in fear of this place, really, fear! I figured I had to bite the bullet. Besides I was running out of stores to try in the Tampa Bay area.

The girl at CC's was great. She sat me down for quick consultation about what I was looking for in a dress and said she had just the designer for me. Yeah right, I heard that before! What could she know?

My friend and I settled into my dressing room as she came in with several dresses. She plopped the first Pronovias dress over my shoulders and zipped me up. I glanced in the mirror and thought to myself, "dang, this girl might know what she is talking about." I simply loved this designer, just not the dress.

When I first looked in the mirror at "the one." I was taken aback. I had a big smile on my face which was duly noted by Friend. I stared at it for a long time, taking in every detail. I LOVED it. I mean I really LOVED it. I had to get some reassurance from my mom, who was unable to be there. So I called her and told her as many details as I could. She was on board with the decision and I knew I was sold. I didn't want to take it off. I just kept looking in the mirror and smiling. Oh yes ladies, I found the One!!

This is NOT my dress. I just thought the pic was beautiful. You can find it at Fashion Weblog

A Day to Honor All Love

2009-06-15T06:47:00.000-07:00

On June 12, 1967, the U.S. Supreme Court declared unconstitutional all race-based restrictions on marriage. Thank you to Mildred and Richard Loving for standing up for your love and in the process, standing up for mine.

The Wedding Loving v. Virginia was an important Supreme Court case, but it was also the story of a real couple. Mildred Jeter and Richard Loving grew up in Caroline County, Virginia. They fell in love and decided to get married. Unfortunately, getting married was not as simple in 1958 as it was today. Mildred was black and Richard was white. There were laws that forbade people of different races to marry each other. This was true in many states, including Mildred and Richard's home state of Virginia. However, interracial marriage was legal in Washington, DC at that time. Therefore, they decided to drive to DC, get married, and return to Virginia to begin their life together.

This proved to be a short term solution. The law in Virginia not only forbade interracial marriage ceremonies, but it also forbade interracial couples from getting married elsewhere and returning to Virginia. One night, while they were asleep, the newly-married Lovings were awakened by the police in their bedroom. The Lovings were taken to jail for the crime of being married.

The Trial When they went to trial, the judge found them guilty and sentenced them to a jail term of one to three years. However, the judge told the Lovings that he would suspend the sentence if they agreed to leave Virginia for a period of twenty five years. Given the choice between imprisonment and banishment, they chose banishment. The Lovings moved to Washington, DC.

The Legal Battle The Lovings were able to live together legally in Washington, but they did not have an easy time. They faced discrimination everywhere. They were not able to rent property in most parts of the city, and they were often the target of racist taunting. Also, they were facing the emotional hardship of separation from their families. Life was both difficult and unpleasant for the Lovings in Washington. They were having difficulty supporting their children. In desperation, Mildred sent a letter to Robert F. Kennedy, Attorney General of the United States.

Mildred's letter was forwarded from the Attorney General's office to the offices of the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) in New York. They took interest in the Loving's case and helped them find an attorney. Two lawyers, Bernard S. Cohen and Philip J. Hirschkop, also felt that the Lovings were entitled to be married and to live in the state of their choice. They agreed to work on the Loving's case for free.

Their case went through many levels of the justice system and their appeal was denied every time. Eventually their case appeared before the United States Supreme Court. The Court decided unanimously in their favor. Finally, after nine years of struggle, the Loving won the right to live together as husband and wife in their home state. In the words of Chief Justice Earl Warren, "Under our Constitution, the freedom to marry, or not marry, a person of another race resides within the individual and cannot be infringed on by the State."

The Victory The Loving's case not only won them their freedom to love, but it also granted the same freedom to every interracial couple in every state in America. At the time of the Loving decision, sixteen states from Delaware to Texas had laws banning interracial couples. Loving v. Virginia (1967) made it illegal for these states to enforce those laws. This ended a long era of laws that were enforced in forty-two states over the course of American history. These laws did not only apply to black people and white people; many states also restricted relationships with Asians, Native Americans, Indians, Hispanics, and other ethnic groups.

The freedom to love is something most of us take for granted. Like many other freedoms, the right for interracial couples to be together was fought for and won as a part of our civil rights. Many people see this as the longest-lasting part of the legal segregation that used to rule our nation. The Lovings, like Rosa Parks, played an important role in freeing us from laws that punished people for no other reason than the color of their skin.
Source: http://www.lovingday.org/the-loving-story

Thanks to august15bride for her post which is reposted here.

~~~~~~~~~~

At our ceremony, Groom and I are having empty chairs in our first row to memorialize our passed loved ones. We will also be honoring Mr. and Mrs. Loving with memorial chairs. Will you be having empty seats for your passed loved ones? Or are you honoring them in another special way? Please share!

And Some More!

2009-06-14T06:20:00.000-07:00

These gorgeous shots were taken by Todd Wilson with Celebrations of Tampa Bay!

Engagement Photos!!!!

2009-06-14T06:05:00.000-07:00

I know, I know... I haven't updated you in so long! I have so many updates but haven't had time to blog.. Alas, I make you wait no longer. Here are some of our engagement photos!

Bridesmaid Dresses? Check!

2009-05-23T15:00:00.000-07:00

Today we went bridesmaid dress shopping! I have been so excited all week since I heard that all of my girls were gonna be able to go shopping today (with the exception of my sis who is out of state, boo).

It was such a super fun day! I have to tell you that I LOVE my bridesmaids! These amazing women come from all areas of my life. None of them have really spent any time together but they all got along from first sight! I am so happy that this wedding will also serve as an opportunity for the women I most love to learn more about each other.

We went to the White House Black Market Outlet at Ellenton. One of my favorite stores of all time is WHBM. Their look is just so timeless (enter laughter from my girls, who heard me use this word numerous times throughout the day). My colors are black, red, white or cream, and possibly some gold accents. I thought this was the perfect place for us to start. The dresses are all so reasonable and everything they have falls within our color scheme.

My girls were worried about the likeliness of them finding matching/coordinating dresses but I wasn't swayed. I told them that all black dresses probably would be best at this time since I haven't picked my gown, but I was open. They asked me whether they should wear the same material? I told them don't worry about it, we would see what they picked and if they worked together.

My gut was right on! They picked out gorgeous dresses and almost all of them matched even before they tried them on. All 5 of us (3 girls, plus me and mom) worked together to find two extremely similar styles that really compliment each other! The girls tried them on and they all looked stunning!

Amazing! This could not have been much easier. We found perfect dresses for all of my girls within a half an hour. Who has even heard of such a thing?

The best thing about the dresses, besides that my knockout bridesmaids will rock them is that

they can wear the time and time again! These are perfect for so many occassions from weddings, to cocktail parties, to just nights on the town with their sweeties. All this came with a price tag that kept them smiling.

I can't express how excited I am to have my these ladies stand by my side at my wedding but to boot, I know they are going to look spectacular in dresses they love too!

This is one of the dresses.. The other one isn't listed online at this time.

Find this at www.whitehouseblackmarket.com

Share your story about finding your bridesmaid dresses!

A call for advice - on the dress

2009-05-20T19:04:00.000-07:00

The biggest news of the day is that my mom came down to visit!!! This highly anticipated arrival almost didn't occur (mom forgot her id at home and had to run back!). Alas, she arrived on time and we were on to our day of wedding planning!

Our first stop was to meet the planner at the ceremony/reception location. It was as beautiful as I remembered it. A bonus was that people were getting ready for an event taking place tonight. The benefit was that there were several tables dotting the floor plan that really helped me visualize our set up.

Mom and I then went off dress shopping! The history of dress shopping is that I have fallen in love with the first dress I tried on. Of course, a future bride can't buy the first one she tries on! She needs to test the waters. When else will you have an entire shop cooing over you? However, future brides beware, I now have 3 dresses I am in love with. The pathetic thing is that they are all different styles. I have found some very basic commonalities but for the most part the are drastically different.

Here is a random dress I found, just to catch your eye.. This gives no indication of what I am leaning towards, sorry Groomzilla!!

Find this dress at www.davincibridal.com.

So does anyone have any advice on dress shopping? I am stuck!

Something Old?

2009-05-14T19:30:00.000-07:00

Even though I don't have a proper picture to accompany this post, I had to share the story. Today my mom called me and told me that my grandmother gave her my 1st Holy Communion dress I wore in the second grade. My grandmother said that it was for my flower girl to wear at my wedding.

This means so much to me, I can't even express it. You see, my grandmother has never been on a plane. She has a hard time getting along these days and will not be able to travel from Ohio to Florida for the wedding. My grandparents mean so much to me and knowing that they will not be there for my wedding hurts. But this thoughtfulness from my grandmother will remain in my mind through my wedding day. I didn't know that dress was still around, much less that my grandmother was planning on pulling it out for such an occassion.

We haven't planned on having a flower girl but now with my mom bringing my old dress down from Ohio next week, I am resolute in finding a proper place for it on my wedding day. You see, that dress will serve as a visual reminder that my grandparents are there with me and they love and support me that day and forever.

My First Redaction

2009-05-13T18:14:00.000-07:00

It has come to my attention, (sorry dad, lol) that I misstated my dad's classic car year. You see, I had the year as a 1956 and his is actually a 1957. As you can see from the picture, this year is way cooler! I should have totally recognized the back of the car was totally different, but alas, it has been some time since I saw that beauty. Nevertheless, this is my blogs first redaction. Check out this classic automobile! Dang it is a beauty...

Before my dad corrects me again, I must advise that this also may not be exactly like his car. Ford made a retractable roof convertible which was far more popular than my dad's hard top. The cool thing about classic cars is that if they were less popular in their day, they are likely more popular now because there are fewer of them. Gotta love the revenge of the nerd!

Rockin the Night Before Away!

2009-05-10T13:20:00.000-07:00

One of my biggest fears of being an out of town bride was finding a rehearsal dinner location. When we headed down to Sarasota last Friday, this fear was on the forefront of my mind. I fear no longer! We found the most fun place to have our rehearsal dinner and we will certainly be rockin the night before away..

Drum roll!!! Or rather, Honk your Horn! The rehearsal dinner will be at the Sarasota Classic Car Museum! This place is cool!

So here is how it happened...

Groom and I were driving to scope out the wedding location (once again) when I got a novel idea. Wouldn't some of our guests love to stop in the Sarasota Classic Car Museum on their down time? Groom and I had been to a classic car museum in my hometown and had a really great time. Both Groom's dad and mine are both avid classic car guys. My dad has a Ford Fairlane and I have a 1965 Morris Minor (a lesser known fact about me, Dad graciously stores it in his garage).

Here's a pic of a 1965 Morris Minor (look a lot like mine)...

And here is a picture of a Ford Fairlane...

One of my most memorable moments growing up was when my dad took me on the back of his motorcycle (also a classic now) to a classic car show in a neighboring town. Dad and I checked out all of the classic cars and had a great time. Then dad and I joined a pancake breakfast that was being held as part of the show. Man it was cool! When dad and I sped off on his Norton bike, I knew I'd always remember that day. Growing up, there were plenty other swap meets and car shows for dad and I, but there was something memorable about that day. I don't think I will ever forget it.

Ok back to the story about the rehearsal dinner location. So we decided to stop in the museum and check it out. It has this certain old 1950's Florida appeal as you drive up. We were greeted by an adorable lady who answered all of our questions.

My first question was the most important. Can you bring in your own food? You see, Groom's brother actually graduated from culinary school and we really wanted him to cook for our rehearsal dinner. The lady was so cute when she told of "that is an option, I had a potluck here for my birthday". This was quickly becoming our favorite option.

Groom and I checked out the whole museum looking at notable cars owned by the Beetles and Ringlings. We loved the place! We chatted with the catering manager and were sold. Groom's parents graciously decided to fuel our little drive down memory lane, to which we are extremely greatful! Everyone was on board with our plan. Now I can't wait for our classic rehearsal dinner!

To check out the museum go to...

http://www.sarasotacarmuseum.org/

Here are some great shots of events within the space.

This is the outside space.

We found a great place that really grasps one of our shared loves.

Is anyone else having their rehearsal dinner at a unique location?

A Fantastic Weekend!

2009-05-10T12:53:00.000-07:00

Well we are back from Sarasota, too soon at that! I must say, it was rather productive and we certainly had a great time.

The Hyatt Regency was great! Modern, fun, ecclectic. A very fun atmosphere. We met with a representative from sales and caterering who was really great. She showed us the different room set up and went over our room block options. We are working on our contract for room blocks now! They were even so thoughtful to send us strawberries and champagne, which we thoroughly enjoyed. I can't wait to go back and enjoy the pool, marina, and this cool little lounge area called the "library" that is great fun!

I think this picture shows part of the library..

One thing that was brought up was whether we would want to stay at the same hotel as some of our guests. I am pretty ok with it, since I suspect that when it is time for "we" time, our guests will be ok with that. What do you think? Will guests let the newly weds be, even if they are in the same hotel??

The Test Run

2009-05-07T15:00:00.000-07:00

Kareem and I have decided to give visiting Sarasota a test run tomorrow. Anna, our planner, has given us some really great ideas on rehersal dinner locations, hotels, and the like in the area. We figure that heading down there is the only way to really get acquainted with the area. So tomorrow night, we will head down to Sarasota for the night to see what we can see. Of course, some dining out, beach time, and just plain ol' relaxing are in order as well.

There are two really prime hotels in the Sarasota area. The Ritz Carlton and the Hyatt Regency. Of course, our first inclination was to stay at the Ritz for our wedding night. However, Anna told us that the Hyatt Regency is really hip and that alot of brides prefer it because they have large suites, some with two floors. When Kareem suggested heading down there for a night, the idea of test running this hotel seemed perfect! So tomorrow we will stay at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota. Here are some pictures!

Check out more great photos and information about this hotel on www.hyatt.com.

If you know me at all, then you know I love to travel. Not only do I love to travel but I love to find great deals. Priceline has always been one of my favorite tools for travel planning. I used to work in a hotel and got an awesome employee discount. Ever since, I HATE paying full price for hotel rooms. It is just one of those things. : )

Priceline didn't fail me for tomorrow's Sarasota trip. Rooms were being listed at $199. My priceline deal?? $99.00!!! Pretty cool huh? Of course, Priceline is not always an option. It works best for areas that have a lot of competition. For instance, I almost always stay at 4 star hotels in the Orlando area. The reason? There is so much competition, even on the 4 star level in Orlando. From my memory (I haven't worked at a hotel in 5 or 6 years), the hotels take a certain percentage of their inventory and offer it to Priceline for them to sell at no lower than a certain rate. When you go on Priceline, you bid on a room within a specific area of town and certain star level. For instance if you bid for a 3 star in the downtown area, Priceline looks at all the arrangements they have with 3 star hotels within that area and evaluate if they can honor your price. There are several catches for you as the purchaser; 1) you don't select you exact hotel - you just narrow it down by star level, location, and price 2) once you purchase, you are pretty much stuck, with some exceptions 3) you might have gotten a better deal if you bid lower - there is no way to know. So say you bid $69.00 on that 3 star in the downtown area; you might have gotten it at "Hotel A". But maybe you wanted "Hotel B" or maybe "Hotel A" would have accepted $59.00. Your stuck with "Hotel A" at $69.00.

I have made some tried and true rules for using Priceline. 1) I always do research on the hotels within the location I want to stay at first, noting their prices 2) I never bid on a star level lower than 3, this is really just because I am particular about hotels and usually can find a good deal without going any lower 3) I take into consideration the likeliness of them accepting my bid. This third rule relates to another drawback of Priceline. If your bid is denied, you must modify your search to another star level or location before being able to bid again. If you want to present the exact same bid but for more money, you have to wait 24 hours. If I don't have time to wait, I may be more incline to make at 60% - 70% the first time.

So those are my thoughts on Priceline. If you want to check it out visit www.priceline.com.

Ok, so how does all that relate to the wedding blog?? Well, you might just want to use it when visiting Sarasota for our wedding. We are currently working on room blocks and will have that information soon. However, you might be interested in staying near the beach or up in St. Pete or Tampa areas.

So tomorrow we are off to our test run of Sarasota. I suspect I will have updates on the hotel and Sarasota in general. Check back next week!!

It's a Piece of Cake!

2009-04-30T16:41:00.000-07:00

It's a piece of cake? Yeah not really! Picking a wedding cake can be a pretty tough decision. One of the biggest decisions you have to make is whether you want traditional icing or fondant. I have been asking a lot of my friends/co-workers their preference in the past couple days. I knew I had to hear something pretty good to overcome my love for traditional icing.

Strangely enough, my unofficial survey didn't end the way that I thought it would. Every wedding magazine and website show beautiful cakes with their smooth appearance. Perfect reigns supreme with fondant cakes. I thought for sure this would be the front runner.

I grew up on traditional icing cakes. My mom made the majority of my childhood birthday cakes. She made clowns, Disney characters, all sorts of amazing cakes. She was known for her cake decorating and other parents soon wanted these beautiful creations for their children's birthdays.

I always tell my mom that she should start her own cake decorating business. She is amazing. People still want my mom to do their cakes. My cousin, Michelle, got married a couple years ago. Growing up, she was a beneficiary of my mom's amazing cakes and she always knew my mom would do her wedding cake. The result? See for yourself...

I will tell you, there was cake left for an army! This was a massive cake. My mom did a great job. My sister helped out quite a bit on the details. These are talented women. Seriously, shouldn't they go into business together?

Ok back to the survey...

Results

Bride #1 - Traditional

Bride #2 - Traditional

Groom of B #2 - Traditional

Culinary School Grad - Traditional

Fondant scored none in my very small yet super fun survey.

To give fondant its credit, you really get a flawless look with it. Since fondant is a sugary concoction with a similar consistency to a tootsie roll, it is easily flattened to be smooth over the surface of the cake. Once the fondant is smoothed down the look is really clean and smooth.

Check out these beautiful creations with fondant.

Can you tell the difference? Which one is fondant and which one traditional icing?

They look pretty similar right?? Ok, here's the hint I learned.... Fondant has rounded edges. The traditional icing has straight edges. Do you see it now?

And now for the fun part. As you already guessed, my groom and I chose traditional icing. We want a very simple cake. I appreciate simple and classic. Below are two of our favorite designs. I have totally left it up to my mom whether she wants to do our cake. I want her to be able to enjoy everything and relax. All secrets told, I would love for her to do our cake. Time will only tell!

My Groomzilla - Reinforcing why he is the one

2009-04-27T18:28:00.000-07:00

So I like to make fun of my Groomzilla. In fact it has quickly become my favorite joke to make. The truth is though, I wouldn't have it any other way. An overactive groom can be overwhelming at times but when it come down to it, he is all I could ask for.

Some of my friends have told me that their grooms didn't help with any of the details. I have heard stories of fighting because he doesn't care about the color of the linens or doesn't understand how it is so difficult to choose between three flowers that are all the same color? A rose is a rose, right? Or, they aren't all three roses? LOL.

My groom has played a super active role in our planning. In fact, he chose our location. Yep, ladies, he went on the web (probably theKnot.com) and found a place he wanted to marry me. He had specifics of what he wanted and he found just the perfect place.

Out of all the details my groom has helped out with, there is one that I emphasize is necessary not only for a successful wedding but also a successful marriage. That is the awful B word, BUDGET..

My fiance are I are at the reigns of our budget. The two of us poor over details and numbers practically every day. My fiance has spreadsheets and Microsoft Money all over our budget. I can't imagine not having him there for me regarding these important details that really impact our continuing lives together. In fact, his assistance in this has shown me exactly how financially responsible he is and I appreciate that for our future lives together. I know he will take care of me and make sure we are comfortable.

Although my groom sometimes drives me crazy when he make comments about ideas for my wedding dress (a conversation that is now COMPLETELY off limits to him) and who I can have in my bride's room, having him play an active role in our planning reiterates the exact reasons I am marrying him. I know he will take care of me, I know he will support me emotionally, and I know that he will be my partner in love and business alike.

I love my Groomzilla and can't wait to be his Mrs.

Here is a picture of my groom being a great daddy to our big fat English Bulldog "Atlas".

Extra, Extra Read All About It

2009-04-26T14:16:00.000-07:00

The program to me is one of the most functional pieces of your ceremony decor. The program can act to set the theme and colors of your wedding but it can also really educate your guests on you, the couple, and everyone/thing surrounding you.

I was recently at a friend's wedding where they incorperated several cultural traditions. Their programs were used in part to bring their guests up to speed. This really made her guests feel like they were a part of her day. It also gave them a better appreciation for her culture.

After giving it a lot of thought, I think we will go with a booklet format for our program. Our ceremony will actually be quite short but I would like to introduce some interesting/exciting things to our guests about our engagement, our bridal party, and our personal histories. Having information like this really gets your guests thinking about you and your day. Plus, they won't be wondering for how long you have known your maid of honor or third bridesmaid from the center. Short blurbs about your wedding party can help guests put names and faces together that they might have heard about before. This will give them talking pieces later at the reception. Programs can also be used to highlight the engagement or honeymoon details. Your boss or co-worker might not know every detail of the engagement but might just find it adorable how your fiance fumbled when he put that ring on your finger. Also, the program is a great place to honor those that have past.

These are some programs that I really like. I think we can easily create these ourselves in our colors.

What do you think?

I personally love the idea of the fan program but since we will be getting married in January, even if it is Florida, I don't think they will be necessary. :)

The decision to get a planner - My bff for the next 9 months!

2009-04-26T08:47:00.000-07:00

I fought my fiance tooth and nail not to get a planner. "Oh, I can do it! I am great at planning events! It is going to be so much fun!" Very soon I realized two things 1) it is way more fun when it isn't your own budget 2) Time is key and well I don't have much of that!

I told my fiance that our planner better be my new best friend for the next 9 months because I will likely rely on her more than anyone. When we found Anna, I knew she was gonna do great as my new bff... Anna likes to give hugs when we say goodbye, lol, she is already up our alley! She is so receptive to our ideas and is willing to think outside of the box. With our location already selected, when we chose our planner, we knew we wanted someone with experience at our place. Anna has done tons of events at our location and used to work with a big-time caterer near there. She has a lot of connections in the area and has been able to negotiate some great deals in the past.

We knew we had our girl when she was receptive to hearing our non-conventional ideas like making our own programs, invitations, and bouquets. She even gave great ideas of where to find our supplies and has offered her help in putting things together.

Since we found Anna I have been WAY less stressed! Instead of having numbers floating around in our heads, we now have an amazing spreadsheet with everything lined out. She also keeps us updated every couple days with new ideas she has.

So far Anna has decreased my stress level, offered her time and crafty services for our do-it-ourselves, and given hugs when needed. Isn't that what a bff is all about???

Anyone else hiring a planner? Why or why not?

The Engagement

2009-04-24T18:44:00.000-07:00

I have to share a little about our engagement because my fiance was amazing! I will try to make a long story short. Kareem and I bought a house in July of this year. I had just start a new job and had to go away on business for a week. We closed on the house the night before I left! While I was gone, Kareem had a long "honey-do" list. He was in charge of painting most of the rooms by the time I got back. When I got home that night, he met me in the garage. I remember thinking it was sweet he was waiting so intently but that it wasn't out of the ordinary, in fact, he seemed pretty relaxed. Usually he gets excited like a little puppy when I get home after long trips. He told me that he had been hard at work at painting and wanted to know what I thought. He showed me the downstairs and I was very impressed. Then he said something that worried me. He said that he also decided to paint the bedroom and he was concerned I might not like it. Well knowing him all too well, this could mean that my new bedroom in my first home was now decorated in neon polka dots and stripes. Terrified I approached the upstairs bedroom door. As I opened the door, I saw painted on the other side "Tammy Briant will you marry me?"! I couldn't believe it! It was the most adorable thing I had ever seen. On top of that I was in entire and utter shock. Like really..... In shock! I started muttering to him or maybe myself "Oh my gosh, shut up!". He told me to sit down in one of the rocking chairs. This sounded like a good idea because I felt like I was going to fall over. As I sat down and hear myself muttering "Oh my gosh, shut up" over and over again, I realized that Kareem was down on his knee and asking me to marry him, with a gorgeous ring in hand!! I realize at some point, perhaps after two or three more muttered sayings, that Kareem was beginning to look puzzled. I realized I hadn't said yes, in fact I hadn't said anything except "oh my gosh, shut up"! I threw my arms around him and said yes! And that is how I became a soon to be Mrs. Kareem had also thought of it all. He had our song playing in the background, chocolates, champagne, and roses, and the best of all, he had two champagne glasses engraved with our names and the date of our engagement. See why I am marrying him??

A novice blogger

2009-04-24T18:07:00.000-07:00

Ok so here goes. This is my first shot at blogging. I must say that this is pretty far outside of my element. By nature I am a very very private person. I like my private life to remain, well... Private. However, since the most exciting time in many girls life is occurring for me, I decided I had to share with the world.

My wedding is set for January 30, 2010. The groom is an adorably funny, intellegent man named Kareem. We are so far into the wedding planning that I suspect we've reached the point of no return. My favorite joke right now is that everything is set. The date, the place, the time; the only thing that is still subject to change is the groom. There isn't a deposit down on him, so I figure I still can trade him out. LOL.

I have learned that wedding planning is fun when it is someone elses, but incredibly stressful when it is yours. Through this blog I hope to share the exciting details as we plan along, and get some great ideas from other brides out there. Of course commiserating about the drags of dealing with different vendors, ect. is necessary as well!

I hope you enjoy my page!