Counting Down

Only 2 weeks till the big day. It’s coming fast but I’m ready to get it done. All the planning and drama has taken a toll on Bobby and I. No matter how many weddings you’ve attended or participated in, (I’ve had more than my share), you don’t truly understand the work and stress behind it until you’re planning your own. I’m sure compared to others, our experience might be minor but nonetheless one we’d like to put behind and enjoy our wedding day.

I went for my final fitting last night. It was exciting. Trying on my dress made it even more real knowing that next time I put it on it will be our wedding day. The adjustments were perfect so I just pray; I don’t lose any weight in the next couple weeks.

Though, I only have small things to complete I keep feeling like there’s so much to do in so little time. From programs to music and decoration details, it all adds up especially when juggling work and normal daily tasks. All I can do is just breathe and keep going.

Pam

Pam's Shower Pictures

My Bridal Shower

I had my bridal shower last weekend and what a beautiful day it was. I was lured to the location by one of my friends telling me, a couple months before, about a bridal expo she’d received an invite for. She added that they would have WE TV there for a bridezilla shoot and even put together a disclaimer form. A few other brides-to-be from work were also in on it by agreeing to respond to the email that went out as to whether or not they’d attend. I admit it was a good idea but, with my busy calendar, I’m booked every weekend except two so I knew the shower would have to be one of those days.

Though I wasn’t totally surprised it was exciting and great to see my family and friends that attended to show their love and support. The shower location was nice with a great view of the lake it’s set off from. The food was good and I received many of beautiful gifts. Also can’t forget the toilet paper gown game. We got to see everyone’s creative side and a few laughs at the same time. It was a small dose of what to expect on the wedding day – can’t wait.

Talk to you soon.

Pam

71 Days To Go!

Last night, I went for my first fitting and it was both exciting and scary realizing how close the big day is. But it’s also nice to know I’ll finally be “the bride” and not another bridesmaid which is nice but can be depressing when you’ve had more than your share. My sister and niece went along to see me in my dress. They had their fittings too. They loved their dresses and the shoes added a nice touch.

After contemplating which favors I liked best, I finally ordered my original choice tonight. Glad to have that checked off my list. Now if I can just get the invitations wrapped up. My goal is to start sending them out next week providing the printer can have them ready in time. That would also allow time to send to the “b list” guests without being too close to the RSVP date. Though I read that it’s ok to invite guests a week before or even the week of the wedding, I personally don’t agree with it and want to avoid it. There was also an article on how to let people know they’re not invited which I’ve had to do in the past few weeks, even a couple days ago. I try to smooth it over by reminding them of my large family and that costs add up quickly. I’ve also mentioned sharing the video and pictures. No matter what you say it’s not easy and not everyone seems to understand. But I hope no one takes it personal.

Talk to you soon.

Pam

Honeymoon and Completing To-Do List

I mentioned planning/booking our honeymoon in one of my previous entries. It’s now booked and paid for. We started out with me wanting to go to Hawaii and Bobby Barbados. After some discussion Barbados was left as a last resort. So we’re going to Hawaii!! It will be the first visit for both of us and we’re so excited. Right now we could both use the rest and relaxation.

Though we’ve completed a few more items on our to-do list there are still over 100 items left to be done. I’d been feeling ok and on schedule until the last couple weeks. Now with less than 100 days till the wedding I’m starting to feel pressured to get all the final items done.
Though some men may try to be involved in the planning process 90% of the tasks fall on the bride and can take a toll at times. In most case if it were left up to the groom they’d simplify things by just going to the justice of the peace. Of course that’s fine if both parties agree on it but if not, women prepare yourselves for the tasks ahead. It’s exciting and nerve wrecking at the same time.

Till next time….

Our Registry and Guest Lists

Bobby and I went to Macy’s and started our wedding registry. I felt like he was rushing me but the woman who assisted us was very helpful and gave Bobby the scanner. This made him feel as though he was in control. To my surprise, he didn’t complain too much but when it was time to go he was clearly ready.

We covered most of what I had in mind along with a couple items he suggested. I knew I could go online at another time and update where needed, which I did later. I also registered for a few items at Bed Bath and Beyond. There’s also a great alternative to the traditional registries with honeymoon wishes. It’s a great way to give guests options and the opportunity to help make your honeymoon experience more enjoyable.

My sister/matron of honor has been harassing me for my bridal shower guest list. I know she just wants it now so I’m not trying to figure out when the shower will be but right now I’m finalizing the wedding list. I’ve had to put more names on the “b” list to try and get down to a more reasonable number but will still be over the limit we’d agreed even with responses of those unable to attend. The more I go over the lists the more appealing eloping or a destination wedding becomes. But I’m forced to do what I have to and hope people understand. My advice to future brides, start out with only immediate family and gradually add extended family and friends from there. I read an article that pretty much advised the same things I’ve been doing but just doesn’t make it any easier. I plan to send the invitations out in batches, pulling from the “b” list after I’ve received enough “no” responses that allow room for additional guests. Again, hoping those we can’t invite will understand and plan to share memorable moments and pictures at http://www.forblackweddings.com.

Till next time….

Staying On Schedule and Organized

I attended a bridal show with my sister over the weekend. Since, I already have the larger items needed for the wedding there wasn’t much I was interested in at the show but it was entertaining. There was a pretty good DJ and band vendor that performed with male models which added extra flair to the fashion show. They positioned each other as mannequins in amusing poses. I really just wanted to attend for the bridal experience and I think all brides should attend at least one. As someone mentioned to me, “most of us only get one wedding, so do everything you can for the full experience.”

It seems like we just ring in the New Year and now February is here. With less than 5 months to go I’m really pushing to complete items on my to-do list. To help keep myself organized, I created folders that hold all my wedding related information.

In addition to the folders, I use the great planning tools provided by The Knot. They have a to-do list that helps keep me in line with what items I should be focused on, if not already covered, as well as things that are overdue. There’s also a budgeter, personal webpage and, my favorite of all, the guest list manager. With the guest list manager you can do everything from importing and exporting excel files to guest responses and table seating. What’s also great is that you can access it from anywhere unlike spreadsheets on your personal computer. I also found great planning tools on ForBlackWeddings.com, http://www.forblackweddings.com/

We have selected the tuxedo and accessory colors for the guys that will blend nicely with the bridesmaids’ dresses - another thing to check off my list. Though I’ve completed the major items I still feel pressured to get the little things done. But most importantly, I’m anxious to have our honeymoon booked and confirmed. I am in the process of doing that now. I’ve heard others say the honeymoon will be the best part and now I can understand why. With all the planning, spending, and the nightmare guest list it can’t come soon enough.

Talk with you soon.

Pam