Wedding Fact Friday

I find this very fun and amusing. Thank you, Romans!!! Hehe. :D

Oldest Bridal Tradition
The veil dates back to ancient Rome, when it was flame-yellow, always worn over the face, and called a flammeum. (source)

Suzie Homemaker Yumminess

So, I just got back from spending some quality time with my best friend and maid of honor, MC, at the GH Mall. She was looking for shoes (boots, actually, if we're being honest) for a birthday gift to herself. I was on a mission to find a new purse. She got lucky and found EXACTLY what she was looking for on the first try. I, on the other hand, had absolutely no luck.

These are the boots that she found and that we both loved. They are brand new and she was the first to buy a pair!! What an awesome birthday present. She got them in Storm Grey (as pictured). When they go on sale in a couple of months, I totally plan on getting them in black.

(source)

Also, while MC was waiting for the sales lady to bring her the boots to try on, she and I found some lovely shoes for me. I would love to own these and will probably also purchase them when they go on sale in a couple of months. I'm so excited. The shoes are navy but don't appear to be in the picture...just so you know! :)

(source)

After purchasing the beautiful boots, MC and I went on a hunt for the perfect purse. About a month ago, I was in PA visiting family for a reunion. We were killing time in a mall and I found the perfect bag. However, it was $99...which happens to be a little out of my budget. Naturally, I thought it'd go on sale and I'd just get it later at another store. Wrong. I have not been able to find it anywhere. Apparently, it's an older style and the only place I can find it for a decent price is ebags.com. (Has anyone bought something from there before?) They have sales on Wednesdays and Sundays that make the price about $80 - including sales tax. Below is a picture of it and I have not been able to find anything remotely similar to it that I love as much as I do this bag. Your thoughts?

(source)

And, now, to tie in my blog title. I bet you were wondering when I was going to do that. Now I am! :D While with MC today, she handed me a recipe I has asked for earlier. It is for Peach Cobbler with Blueberry Muffin Crust. How yummy does that sound? I can't wait to make it. I've just got to do it soon before peaches are out of season. And, for your enjoyment, I am going to give you the recipe in this post. Lucky you! (Plus, this is for my benefit in case I lose the paper the recipe is written on. I'm forgetful like that.)

Peach Cobbler with Blueberry Muffin Crust
by MC the Maid of Honor

4 lbs peaches, peeled and sliced
3/4 c. sugar
2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
1/4 c. butter

1. Toss together first 3 ingredients in a large bowl
2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat
3. Add peach mixture to skillet; bring to a boil and cook, stirring often, for 5 minutes
4. Spoon hot peach mixture into a lightly greased 13x9" baking dish
5. Spread Blueberry Muffin Batter (recipe below) over hot peach mixture evenly
6. Bake at 400 degrees for 25 minutes or until crust is golden

Blueberry Muffin Batter
by: MC the Maid of Honor

2 c. all-purpose flour
1/4 c. sugar
1 Tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 c. milk
1/4 c. vegetable oil
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 c. fresh blueberries

1. Combine first four ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, salt) in a large bowl; make a well in center
2. Stir together milk, vegetable oil, and egg; add to dry ingredients and stir until just moistened. DO NOT OVERMIX - some clumps are okay!
3. Gently fold in blueberries

Notes
- Use a wooden spoon - not an electric mixer - to prepare muffin batter
- A smaller baking dish works too; MC used an 8x8" and the juices spilled out the sides but it's fine if you put a baking sheet on the rack below the dish

My mouth is watering now after just typing the recipe up. I'm so going to store soon to get the ingredients that we don't all ready have in the house! Yum yum yum. :)

*~Sassy Bride~*

What To Ask the DJ

Per usual, I was browsing the internet for wedding related details. I am currently looking for a DJ that is moderately priced. While digging around for different DJs, I found one that had some helpful information on it - questions you should ask a DJ before hiring them with explanations as to why the questions are important.

Don’t hire a DJ until you ask these questions!

What type of party experience does your DJ have – at what types of functions does your DJ regularly play?

Many mobile DJ’s just mix records and CD’s but do not entertain. The best DJ’s are in fact “Entertainers” with great personality, stage presence and the ability to encourage interactive participation designed to promote party fun! Make sure your DJ has the background to entertain diverse age groups and has the professional knowledge and ability to “read” your crowd and sequence the songs your guests will respond to best throughout your function.

Do you provide a written performance agreement?

Written performance agreements protect both parties and ensure there is no misunderstanding between you and your DJ. All terms should be defined, and details such as: venue, function details, performance time, music requirements, deposit and fee payment details, cancellation policy and overtime charges should be clearly specified.

Are you insured?

A DJ who is insured demonstrates they are a serious business and care about the protection of you and your guests as well as their equipment.

Do you use professional equipment?

A DJ’s equipment should be designed to sound crisp at all listening levels as well as powerful enough for your event. It should be presented attractively and safely without exposed wiring.

Do you have backup equipment in case of emergencies?

Even professional equipment can fail and put an early end to your party. It is important to know there is backup equipment on site in the event of an emergency.

How loud will you play the music?

A professional DJ knows to keep the volume at an appropriate level for the guests, especially during social hours and meal times.

Courtesy of: REM Music

*~Sassy Bride~*

Let's Be Honest

So, earlier this month I posted some pictures of dresses that I've tried on and love, and I still do. But, in true indecisive and picky bride fashion, can you guess what I've done? You probably can. I've started thinking that maybe those dresses aren't everything I need/want in my wedding dress. I was browsing through some designer dresses back in June and found Sophia Tolli. And, I am still in love, love, love with her!!! I'm kind of nervous about trying on any dresses of hers though without knowing what price range they fall in. Does anybody know??? I would really appreciate some help on this. Here are some of the dresses she creates that ooze gorgeousness and perfection.

*~Sassy Bride~*

Wonder of Wonder

So sorry for not posting until now. The past two days I have been searching and researching all different kinds of wedding reception venues. R and I all ready know that we're getting married in a Catholic church by my grandfather who is a Deacon; we just haven't picked the church. That's not a main concern right now because there are quite a few in the Nashville area. However, it has been incredibly hard to find a reception venue within our price range, but after two days of looking...I think I've found it. According to the wedding budget I'm using on The Knot, R and I are supposed to spend about $800 dollars on the reception venue. That's nearly impossible if you want something spectacular in the city...which is what I want. I'm more city than country. But, despite all the odds, I have found a venue that meets my standards at a reasonable rate as well!!! It is the Old Hickory Country Club.

*~Sassy Bride~*

The Budget Breakdown

A couple weeks ago, I posted a budget breakdown of what the average person in TN spends on a wedding. It was heartbreaking because I know I won't be able to afford something considered "average" for a wedding in TN. However, to make the most of my budget, I have spent the entire day so far trying to maximize my budget by applying different percentage strategies to my it. On the plus side, I am getting better at percentage math. Now I can successfully pass 6th grade! Yay me!

I do have a positive note to post along with this though, courtesy of Real Simple Weddings. They have an article about how to save money while planning your wedding. It happens to be very specific too, which is something we brides definitely need in our lives!!

1.The Timeline

• Shorten the wedding-planning timeline. Don’t wait a year to get married and it will be easier to simplify the wedding. “A recent trend I’ve seen is that couples are saving money by planning a more last-minute wedding, rather than the traditional 11-month runup,” says Alan Fields, coauthor of Bridal Bargains: Secrets to Throwing a Fantastic Wedding on a Realistic Budget. “The shorter time horizon will force you to streamline and keep you, by necessity, from getting sucked into the vortex of elaborate weddings.”
• Or give yourself even more time. That way, you can take advantage of seasonal sales. “For example, you may be able to stock up on silver decorations at 75 percent off before the Christmas holidays, or pick up your ring bearer or flower girl’s outfit on sale at Easter,” says Sharon Naylor, author of 1001Ways to Save Money . . . and Still Have a Dazzling Wedding (McGraw Hill, $17, amazon.com)

2. The Date

• Schedule the wedding in off-peak times. When there’s less competition for dates, you can have more negotiating power. “You can shave 20 to 30 percent off the cost of a wedding by planning it for November, or January through March―except for Valentine’s Day,” says Fields.
• Choose any day other than Saturday. "That’s the most popular day to marry," says Anna Post, author of Do I Have to Wear White? Emily Post Answers America’s Top Wedding Questions (Collins, $15, amazon.com). Ask about rates for Friday- and Sunday-night weddings. They’re becoming more common, so you won’t have to deal with quite as many guest grumbles.

3. The Venue

• Consider choosing a nontraditional venue. “Where you have the wedding often drives the cost,” says Fields. Rather than a dedicated wedding reception hall or country club, check out less expensive facilities, from city-run spaces like zoos and civic gardens to restaurants or more offbeat locations that have some meaning for you, from a beach to your parents’ yard. One caveat: If the space is not equipped to cater a party, calculate extra costs for bringing in tables, toilets, or even a kitchen.

4. The Wedding Dress

• Shop designer or sample sales. Find out the dates of well-known annual sales at places like Filene’s, where you might snag a $2,000 dress for $249, or the sample sales at Vera Wang. “You can save up to 70 percent on gowns, headpieces, veils, and shoes at a sample sale,” says Naylor. “Look for the touring list on your favorite designers’ websites, or get on the mailing list at bridal gown salons.” You may even get to shop before anyone else and have first pick.
• Consider renting or borrowing a dress. “Or buy one secondhand,” Post says. Chances are, it’s only been worn once! Look on eBay or craigslist for postings. Oftentimes, if the bride changes her mind about her dress or has to postpone the wedding, you might be able to score a deal on a never-been-worn gown.
• Or combine self-interest with philanthropy. Says Fields, "Buy at one of the sales of donated new and used gowns" staged in many U.S. cities by bridesagainstbreastcancer.org. Or look for a vintage or consignment store that carries wedding dresses. The Bridal Garden in New York City (bridalgarden.org), for example, features designer-donated dresses, and a portion of the proceeds go to charity.

5. The Food

• Make it a daytime reception. “It’s always cheaper to serve lunch or brunch than dinner,” says Fields.
• Try a combination plate. Eliminate a choice of entrée to save on your food bill. “Serve a couple of grilled shrimp with a couple of beef medallions," Naylor says. “This cuts down on the cost, since the chef doesn’t need to buy enough of all the entrées to allow for people to change their minds.” Or serve an inexpensive dish like chicken and pasta and let the chef shine by creating great sauces.
• Avoid the traditional sit-down dinner or buffet meal altogether. Instead, host a cocktail reception with cake and punch or cake and cocktails. Or have a potluck reception, which makes for a less formal, more intimate wedding with a nice feeling of community.

6. The Liquor

• Serve signature cocktails. “Alcohol is one of the biggest expenses of a wedding and can burn a hole in your budget fast,” says Fields. Since most reception sites charge for every bottle opened, even if it was for just one drink, consider offering a limited bar. Choose a signature cocktail (or a series of signature cocktails) that use one type of liquor. Then, ask to stock a few other bottles based on the wedding party’s preferences (i.e., if your dad drinks only scotch). Another option is to serve just beer, wine, and enough champagne for toasts.

7. The Wedding Cake

• Add finishing touches yourself. “The cost of a wedding cake is all about the labor,” says Naylor, “so forget sugar-paste flowers or matching the lace from your gown in fondant.” Instead, try using real lace or satin ribbon wrapped around each layer. It costs almost nothing; just pin it on and it looks lovely. Or use a few real flowers here and there, scattered artistically. Also, go low, says Fields: “The more height, the more money―it takes more labor to build a taller cake.”
• Have a small cake. You can have a wonderfully decorated, yet smaller cake on display that’s used for cutting, and then have a sheet cake in the kitchen for serving.

8. The Flowers

• Make your own centerpieces. This is definitely a time commitment, so consider making the centerpieces for the cocktail tables or the rehearsal dinner. “A lot of people are using freshroses.com and other websites to order wholesale flowers to make their own centerpieces,” says Fields. “You can order enough flowers to do 15 for about $300, then check out how-to sites for DIY instructions.” (See Turn Supermarket Flowers Into Beautiful Bouquets) Or go online to check out the wedding flower packages from Costco―have bouquets and centerpieces shipped to you for huge savings.
• Choose seasonal and local flowers for your reception. “This not only brings the season into your event but it also cuts costs, because your florist won’t have to import any exotic or out-of-season blooms,” says David Tutera, an event planner. (Learn what will be blossoming on your big day with the Wedding Flower Finder Tool.)
• Use one kind of flowers in your bouquets and arrangements. It’s a budget-friendly move because your florist will need to place only one bulk order. “This brings a chic monochromatic look to your event,” adds Tutera.
• Avoid cascades. Like cakes, the hidden cost of flowers is the labor. “Order or make small, hand-tied bouquets for the bride and attendants―cascades require a lot of wiring, and more labor means higher cost,” says Naylor.

9. The Photographer and Videographer

• Try a less-expensive package. "Photographers usually offer packages based on the hours they’ll work," says Naylor. To buy a less expensive (shorter) package, she suggests, “do your at-home, getting-ready pictures as candids. Cut the cake early so you can release the on-the-clock shooters, and let your guests supplement your album with candids.”
• Talk to former brides. To help you decide whether you’re really going to need the 1,000-picture package or whether 500 will do, find people “with similar sensibilities to yours and see what their experience was,” says Naylor.
• Consider hiring a photography-school student. Make sure you check out his or her portfolio, with examples of portraits. Though, Fields says, “it can cut the bill in half,” it’s not worth the savings if photos aren’t in focus.

10. The Invitations, Programs, and Favors

• Take advantage of the talents of the bridal party and other friends and family. Anything you can make yourself becomes a fun shared effort and can save a lot. “My aunt did her own invitations and program for her wedding because she wanted the personal touch,” says Post.
• Make some items do double duty. To save the cost of printed place cards, add guests’ names to the favors and set one at each place, or print the names at the top of your menu cards.
• Make your own favors. If you have time, whip up your grandma’s famous macaroons or make your own chocolate-covered almonds. “Edibles are the most appreciated,” says Naylor. “Especially for nighttime weddings―a bag of cookies will be gone before the guests hit the car.”
• Skip favors. Place a bowl of candies on the cake table with a note saying, “Please enjoy these candies. In lieu of favors we’ve made a donation to charity.”

(source)

*~Sassy Bride~*

Perfection

I love this shoe!! I think it would be perfect for a wedding shoe. I really despise wedding shoes. They are so plain and boring and offer no excitement to a wedding day. My sister wore beautiful dark red shoes at her wedding this year which made everything pop - her dress, the flowers, the reception decor, etc. Plus, I think it'd be pretty sexy for the wedding night. {{Oo-la-la!}}

(source)

*~Sassy Bride~*

Slight Panic Attack

Yesterday and today, I have been trying to remember the fabulous invitation set that I found and showed to R. He loved them and specifically told me not to forget the page. And, what did I do? ::drum roll:: I forgot...

I went through all the history on my laptop and my dad's laptop. It took time to find exactly what I was looking for. Luckily, I remembered having found it earlier in the week and narrowed my search down to that. However, I have come to realization that I spend far too much time on the Internet. My search probably wouldn't have lasted very long if I didn't spend every hour of every day on the Internet. I think some untouched books in my room might get read quite soon.

At any rate, I have found the wondrous invitation that both R and I love that is also in our budget. I am so proud to have found it! It is from Magnet Street Weddings. It has our wedding colors, aqua and pale green, on it in spots. (I adore polka dots!!) It also has a spot for your picture too, which I think is pretty neat if you have some awesome engagement pictures. The respond card also happen to be a postcard -- cheaper stamps!

(source)

*~Sassy Bride~*

Color Board

Here's what I've picked out so far that I like for my wedding. I think I might have too much blue...
What do you think?

Photo Credits: David's Bridal, Kuga Designs, Flowers Xpress, Links 2 Love, Fifty Flowers, The Knot, Save On Crafts, St. Henry, JoAnn Fabric

*~Sassy Bride~*

Wedding Fact Friday

I've decided to post a random wedding fact every Friday. This should be very entertaining!!

Here's the inaugural fact!

"Hey, brides, tuck a sugar cube into your glove -- according to Greek culture, the sugar will sweeten your union." (source)

*~Sassy Bride~*

A Photographers Tips

I was browsing through facebook today and something caught my eye. I saw an advertisement for beautiful photography. Captured by the lovely photograph on the right of my screen, I decided to click on it. It led me to Don Wright Photography. He has some wonderful pictures and some great deals right now. Go check him out.

But, I also found some valuable information for all us soon-to-be brides. On his blog, he has a list of what you should know before your engagement photo session with a photographer. I think they are great tips. You can find them below.

"1. Wear clothing that makes you look and feel like yourself, don’t pull out that shirt that looks nice, but you NEVER wear.

2. Avoid patterns or really bold stripes as it distracts from your wonderful face

3. Don’t wear matching clothes. Please. It looks cheesy and doesn’t provide separation between you two unique individuals.

4. Bring a change of clothes if you want a different look. Maybe several depending on timeframe.

5. Don’t camouflage yourself!! If we’re outside in spring, don’t wear green - if were in a concrete alley doing some grunge shots, don’t wear grey!

6. Men or women can wear jackets or other accessories to vary the look.

7. For ladies, I recommend getting hair and makeup professionally done for any session. Some photographers provide one, I have several who help with my sessions if you’re interested!

8. Mineral makeup is wonderful in photos. Regardless of mineral or not, bring some extra to touchup mid-shoot.

9. I ask everyone I shoot to meet with me several days before-hand for drinks/coffee - it sounds strange, but its the best way to get good photos as we skip the whole “getting to know eachother” 1/2 hour -

10. My photos are about YOU so don’t you dare act like anyone but yourself - and let me know some of your FAVORITE PLACES before hand - I’d like to shoot there!"

(source)

*~Sassy Bride~*

Dilemma for 'Maids and 'Men

So...I'm a little concerned. I like things to be even...like the same number of things on each side. Symmetrical, I guess you could say. For my sister's wedding recently, she had three 'maids and her hubby had three 'men. It looked great in pictures.

Photo Credit: My Mom!!

My dilemma is that my FH has FIVE 'men and I only have THREE 'maids. I'm sorry worried that our pictures will look...not how I want. I know have some time to make new friends and put them in my wedding since I'm not getting married until 2011, but I still have reservations.

What do you ladies think? Should I push myself to find two more 'maids so that it's even and symmetrical? I am not about to tell my FH that he can't have is 5 guys. That's just awful. I'm so confused. This is probably the one thing that has been plaguing me the longest about our wedding.

What to do?

Please help...

*~Sassy Bride~*

DIY Projects

I am pretty crafty with some thread and a needle so I have decided that I am going to make my ring bearer pillow. I sort of want something a little atypical anyway so that works out for the best. Plus, it'll be quite easy on my budget. It won't cost that much to buy fabric and sew it together, and I'd like to see something I put my heart into hold something that will be on my finger forever. Doesn't that sound perfect? Now, I just have to figure out the color scheme and the pattern I want to use.

I really like the clean lines of this and the color contrast. Maybe put a monogram charm on there instead of a heart. I think that would add a great personal touch to it as well.

I am completely obsessed with this print for the pillow. It has all my colors and would look darling with a pale yellow or silver ribbon. It's available at JoAnn's.

I found another great idea for a DIY project. I don't really like the idea of a guest book. Sure, you know everyone that has been there and to whom you should send a thank you note, but it's not that personal. At my sister's wedding this past weekend, she had people sign a photo matte with advice. It was a great idea but not enough room. I want people to leave us advice, like - "Don't go to bed mad at each other." I found this though and am totally on board with it. After the wedding, it can be used to store other things like photos and important information while the good advice is made into a collage to be hung up somewhere prominent in the house.

(source)

*~Sassy Bride~*

The Space Between Us

Since R and I began our relationship in February of 2008, we have never been apart for more than, at most, two weeks. We've practically been inseparable since day one. It's a lovely feeling, and now it's all coming to an end. :(

After graduation, R and I went to Atlantic City for a little post-college relaxation. (Who knew school and exams could take such a toll on someone??) We stayed there for a few days, which was when R popped the BIG question and I said yes. After A.C., R and I stayed at his parents place for a few weeks. We celebrated our graduation, engagement, and his mom's 50th birthday. After being with his family, we made the 12 hour drive to my home. We've been staying here since, and now he's going home for a month and a half. I'm really going to miss him. I don't know what I'm going to do with myself...besides the obvious, which is to hang out with my MOH and looking at wedding dresses!!! But, now, I won't have someone to come and wake me up before he goes to bed just to say goodnight or someone to cuddle with me when we wake up in the morning.

I will definitely miss him while he's gone. But, who knows...absence makes the heart grow fonder! I am so looking forward to our stronger relationship once we are back together. And, who knows, maybe we'll both have jobs then too!!! How devine would that be??

C.

Nashville Ladies in Wedded Bliss

Bride. Artist. Adventurer.

Budget Savvy Bride

Lovely Tonight

Maiden to Married

McKinney-Oates Cereal

Simply Stunning Events

The Answer is You

The Future Mrs. Smith

The Thirty-Something Bride

With the Pixie Grin

Nashville Brides-to-Be

A Bride in Boots

Becoming Mrs. Dial

Big Spoon + Little Spoon

Enough for Ever After

Little Miss Southern

Miss Kriss

Planning Sarah Elizabeth

The Artist Bride

How to Look Great for Your Big Day!!

It seems like everywhere I look there is something wedding popping up around me on the internet. Here I am, just back from seeing The Proposal, which R and I adored, looking for information on detox foods. I have decided that I want to start eating a bit healthier and getting back into shape. But, that's not the point. As I was looking at the detox foods on the list, I looked at the side bar and saw "24-Hour Wedding Countdown -- What to Eat and Drink Before Saying 'I Do'" on Yahoo! Food. Immediately, I clicked on it! I definitely thought it was something I needed to know and that every bride needs to know. Below, you can find the article found on Yahoo! Food.

"It's wedding season, and here come the brides -- 44,230 of them a weekend! Whether it's you, your best friend, or an adored daughter who's counting down to The Big Day, here are five easy steps to ensure looking and feeling your best during those final 24 hours -- from the first toast until the final flurry of rose petals.

1. Bloat-proof your belly. Don't spoil the perfect fit of your dress! Avoid anything salty -- from pickles and fast food to Chinese takeout -- for at least 24 hours before saying "I do." Limit carbonated beverages too, which can be salty and gassy. You don't want to be bloated and burping!

2. Get lots of sleep. Forget all-night gabfests with your bridesmaids the night before. Instead, have a nice warm bath and, if possible, a gentle massage. Kinda hungry? Have some chamomile tea (mildly sedating) with a drizzle of honey (makes you less alert) and a banana (two sleep inducers and a muscle relaxant).

3. Create a caffeine-free zone. If you need wake-up coffee in the morning, fine. But then stop. Stock up on iced herbal teas, fruit juices, and bottled water. If you've got jitters, caffeine will make them worse, plus it's a diuretic so it'll make you pee a lot (no easy feat in a wedding dress) and could lead to dehydration -- a serious energy sapper.

4. Space out the alcohol. Weddings often mean a nonstop flow of celebratory champagne, wine, and cocktails. But you need to be dazzling, not dim (and definitely not dehydrated, sleepless, or hung over -- all risks of an open bar). So...

• The night before: Give yourself a two-drink limit. Or stick with wine spritzers (ask for more club soda than wine).
• The wedding breakfast: Skip the mimosas and sparkle up your OJ with seltzer.
• The reception toasts: Sip your champagne, don't empty the glass. Pace yourself through to the cake cutting and bouquet tossing.

5. Eat something! There may be tons of food, but it's easy for busy brides not to get a bite. To keep your energy up, hunger down, and tummy flat, go for the fish, chicken, and salads -- but have a plan B: Ask your maid of honor to stash an energy bar or some Brazil nuts in her purse. Just six nuts give you four grams of protein and some healthy fat, a combo that will keep you going far longer than you'd think. Not for your whole life, of course, but that's what the rest of the day is about!"

(source)

Hope this helps you future brides out there for your big day!

C.

I'm in love...and not just with R!

I have found some new vendor sites that I really love. One that I am particularly falling all over is Ever After! While some things are some what out of my price range, there are most definitely others that are in it!! But, hey, I love to dream that I can afford such things.

For example, I have completely fallen in love with this necklace (below). I so know that I cannot afford it for my wedding, but it's one of my wedding colors and would look stunning with a strapless dress. The designer is Glamorosi and she has lots of other wonderful designs as well that are quite affordable!

(source)

There is another designer, Notepourri, on the site that I have also fallen in love with. Their address label designs are super cute! And, coincidentally enough(!!), they too have a design that match my wedding colors. I seriously wish my wedding was sooner rather than later...so many good deals!!

(source)

The other site that I also love is Save On Crafts!! R and I were perusing the site last night and saw so many things that would be perfect for our wedding. I love DIY projects but I get bored easily. This is why I love the fact that our wedding is in two years; so I can work on our projects! :) To have the wedding now or later? Silly indecisive me. But...back to what I found!

I found these beautiful green unscented candles - $5.99 for a pack of 6. These would look great in frosted votive candles around a centerpiece on a white table with silver flatware.

(source)

(source)

I have so many ideas running through my head of what I want. I just wish I had an outlet to put all my energy...like designing my ENTIRE wedding!! :)

C.

Woe is Me!

On my vast quest to find all that I need to know about planning my wedding, I stumbled across Real Simple magazine’s Wedding section online. One of the first sections I noticed, obviously, was the budget section. They have a breakdown for each state of what an average wedding costs today. Upon discovering this, I immediately felt the need to share this information!! It is quite eye-opening. Of course, I’ll only be sharing the TN average cost breakdown, but you can find EVERY state’s breakdown here.

AVERAGE WEDDING COST IN TENNESSEE

ATTIRE: $1,738 – $2,874
Bride accessories: $221 to $365
Groom accessories: $116 to $192
Groom suit/tux: $160 to $264
Hair/makeup service: $116 to $192
Headpiece/veil: $207 to $343
Wedding dress: $918 to $1,518

CEREMONY: $2,002 – $3,310
Ceremony accessories: $129 to $214
Ceremony decorations: $385 to $637
Ceremony location: $451 to $745
Officiate/pastor/priest: $162 to $267
Rehearsal dinner: $875 to $1,447

ENTERTAINMENT: $2,231 – $3,692
Ceremony/reception band: $1,315 to $2,176
Ceremony/reception DJ: $502 to $831
Ceremony/reception musicians: $414 to $685

FLOWERS: $1,402 – $2,320
Boutonnieres/corsages: $122 to $202
Bride bouquet: $105 to $173
Bridesmaid bouquets: $167 to $277
Ceremony flowers: $299 to $495
Flower girl flowers: $34 to $56
Reception flowers: $675 to $1,117

GIFTS AND FAVORS: $705 – $1,165
Gifts for attendant: $326 to $539
Gifts for each other: $263 to $435
Gifts for parents: $116 to $191

INVITATIONS AND STATIONERY: $663 – $1,100
Bridal shower invitations: $69 to $115
Guestbook: $34 to $56
Invitations & reply cards: $294 to $487
Personal stationery: $93 to $154
Save the date cards: $113 to $188
Thank you cards: $60 to $100

JEWELRY: $4,265 – $7,056
Engagement ring: $3,174 to $5,251
Her ring: $640 to $1,059
His ring: $451 to $746

HONEYMOON/PLANNING: $3,474 – $5,747
Honeymoon: $2,556 to $4,228
Bridal consultant/planner: $918 to $1,519

PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHER: $2,421 – $4,004
Photographer: $1,402 to $2,319
Videographer: $1,019 to $1,685

RECEPTION: $10,781 – $17,836
Reception beverages/bartender: $1,528 to $2,527
Bride/groom hotel: $192 to $318
Cake: $369 to $611
Cake knife set: $30 to $49
Cake topper: $28 to $47
Reception decorations/centerpieces: $738 to $1,221
Favors: $246 to $407
Reception food service: $5,202 to $8,605
Reception location: $1,691 to $2,798
Reception rentals: $757 to $1,253

TRANSPORTATION: $667 – $1,105
Car rental: $208 to $345
Limo rental: $459 to $760

(source)

Essentially, if you were to spend the maximum mentioned in this budget breakdown, you would spend $50,209!!!!! That’s 4 times my budget. AND, if you were to spend this minimum amount of money calculated from this breakdown, you would end out spending $30,349!!! This is 2 times my budget. Woe is me and the rest of the TN population who is trying to plan a budget wedding worthy of a princess!

C.

Shock and Awe

On Saturday, my sister, A, and her FH, T, got married at the Old Spencer Mill. The rehearsal was the night before, and after going through that, I have decided to have a wedding coordinator for the day of my wedding. I don’t want to have to worry about putting everything on each table the day of my wedding or the night before at the rehearsal. I saw how stressed my sister got last night and I do not want to be like that the night before my wedding to R. I don’t think either one of us could handle it.

However, though, A’s wedding had great potential to be beautiful that tonight. She definitely had thought everything through down to the last detail. She even said that she didn't regret a single choice she made. Let me tell you though, she’d only been seriously planning this wedding for three months. Yes, you read that right…THREE months. May the Wedding Gods bless her marriage for being able to do such things. I know I wouldn’t be able to do it.

I guess you could compare our planning differences to shopping for clothes. A’s able to go into a store, walk through it once, find beautiful outfits that other shoppers wouldn’t think twice about, try it on, look perfect and fabulous, and buy it on the spot. I, on the other hand, go into a store, look around for thirty minutes debating what kind of clothes my wardrobe currently lacks, pick one or two items that really catch my eye, try them on and look decent and average, debate whether my bank account can take the sticker shock, and then decide not to get the items.

C.

My Addiction

I have a problem with latching on to new things. For example, whenver I get a new song on iTunes, I play it over and over again because I can’t ever get enough! I’m pretty sure that will be my problem here. I don’t think I’ll be able to tear myself away from my new blog. You can tell because it’s only been a few hours since my very first post. I guess this will keep me from being bored since I am currently unemployed.

Here’s what I’ve discovered that I love so far…

• The Knot – I love the budgeter on this site. You can input your amount, how many people you’ve invited/are attending, and the female and male attendants. It also gives you a breakdown of how much you should spend per person on food, favors, and invitations.

• The Cathedral of the Incarnation – This ceremony site is breathtaking. R and I are Catholic, as are our families. It is important to us to get married in a Catholic Church. It has a beautiful aisle and altar that almost any bride would fall in love with.

• St. Henry’s Catholic Church – As with the Cathedral, this ceremony site is absolutely beautiful. It has the same features that the cathedral does plus more. I love it’s circular foyer/narthex and astonishing stained glass windows. They are so vibrant and would be a great addition to any bride on her wedding day.

• The Cannery Ballroom – This reception venue seems very sleek and modern with a Southern twist. It has great opportunities for many different kinds of decorations wether it be DIY projects or hired lighting with drapery.

• aVenue – I like this reception venue because, like the Cannery Ballroom, it has a nice open feeling. I really enjoy the raised portion of the room which I envision showcasing the DJ and cake so that neither gets bumped into with some crazy dance moves.

• Union Station – I absolutely LOVE this place! I think the decor alone speaks for itself – both outside and inside. It’s just so classic and elegant like I’ve always dreamed. I would love to have my reception here if I could afford it.

• Nashville City Club – I think it looks very crisp and clean, which makes it perfect for any kind of color scheme. It is a major plus because it has a beautiful view of the Nashville skyline, which I love. I’ve been to a wedding where I could see the Charlotte, NC skyline from the roof and LOVED the ambiance created by such a surrounding.

• Loveless Barn – This is looking like a great possibility for R and I. It is very open and seems easy to decorate with candles, lighting, and small flowers. The outside is definitely deceiving. I’m not a country girl by any means and do not want to echo my sister’s Old Spencer Mill wedding, but this place is so divine inside that I can’t get over it. It’s been stuck in my head for awhile now. (Maybe that’s a sign?)

• Casablanca Bridal – Yes, I know that my wedding is 2 years away, but what girl doens’t like trying on bridal gowns. I feel so glamourous and beautiful in them. I have found two from this designer that I love – 1881 and 1938. The even greater thing is…they are under $1000 and aren’t discontinued.
  • 1881 – From the moment I saw it, this dress spoke to me. R wants me in a white dress but I just love the two-tone for this dress. Yes, I know that I can get it in one color, but I’ve seen it that way and do not like it as much. Plus, I love the bling. It’s just enough to give the dress that extra edge. AND, another bonus, it can be made into a halter dress. I’m kind of busty so I would like some extra support for my girls.
  • 1938 – This dress is beautiful too sans the flower. Once on, it shows all the right curves in all the right places. That’s what I love about the new pleated/rouching style – it’s absolutely figure flattering!!! The only thing missing is some shine, but that can easily be added with a necklace and earrings.

• San Patrick – While I cannot post the link to my absolutely favorite dress from this designer. I can give you the name – Eliseos. If you go to the website, you can see the gown. The shop near me – Cherished Memories – had just gotten the dress in when I tried it on. I was very impressed and so were the sales associates. I was the first to try it on and all of us were stunned. I didn’t think I would like a dress with those design elements, but I was pleasantly suprised.

Any pointing in the right direction or opinions on what I have discovered so far would be welcome. I feel like I’m stuck between a rock and a hard place. Sorry for the cliche. I just seemed to be frustrated all ready and haven’t even begun to do the BULK of my planning yet. Help…

C.

A Bridal Blog is Born

I have seen a growing trend in wedding blogs and have decided to join in. I am hoping that someone, if anyone reads this, can help me out.

I am 22 yrs. old and live in the Nashville, TN area. I have recently become engaged to my college sweetheart. We met almost a year and a half ago on a RANDOM snow day in North Carolina. (I love snow so this was positively the BEST way to meet my FH, R!) We are looking to have our wedding here in the Nashville area…pending our current unemployment status. Sad.

It is also our plan to create our dream wedding on a modest budget. My fiancee, R, and I are determined to make this OUR wedding; not just mine, and not just his. That’s the point of getting married…isn’t it? Recent studies, found by R, have said that the average wedding in Nashville costs $26,000 or more. We are hoping to spend $10,000 but would LOVE to spend less than that.

At any rate, this will be our story. I want our children to be able to look back on this and see what Mommyand Daddy went through to get to where we’ll be then.

We do not have a wedding date right now. Our main goal is to get jobs. We are, however, looking at a Summer 2011 wedding. R’s family is from New York so we’re hoping to plan the wedding over a 3-day wedding to give them an extra day of travel and avoid having to miss too much work.

C.