We Wed 09.19.09

Come Follow Me!!!

2009-11-25T10:00:00.001-08:00

Hey Ladies!!! I am still anxiously waiting to post more recaps....still waiting on the professional pics.

In the mean time PLEASE come follow me on my new adventure as i finish cosmetology school over on my new blog.......Cosmetic & Hair Affair.

Hope to see you there! <3

Cake Recap

2009-10-05T11:29:00.000-07:00

So many people have been commenting on our fabulous cake, i thought i would start my recaps with this............

Theme-Fuchsia, Grey, Orange, Love Park, Modern
Flavors-Butter Cream Icing, Champagne flavored cake

We had an idea in mind, previous blog post here.
I took that, drew a sketch and viola!
This was my Aunt Kathy's gift to us. Her boss who used to own a bakery made this AMAZING wedding cake for us. We first saw it while taking pictures after the ceremony on our photographers camera and we were in shock. We couldn't believe how amazing it looked......and let me tell you.....it tasted just as good. If you have never had champagne flavored cake, i suggest you look up a recipe or go buy some immediately because it will knock your socks off. It is so sweet but light. Everything on the cake was editable. We were worried about what the fondant would taste like, but it tasted like the yummiest candy ever. We ended up taking a huge try of it home and had been eating for the week after the wedding as well. We couldn't have been more thankful for this amazing editable work of art. It was perfect. I hope we can wait for our one year anniversary to bust it out of the freezer and eat it again.

Gown Claustrophobia

2009-09-30T07:59:00.000-07:00

The wedding day was perfect......but no wedding would be complete without one major glitch. Mine being the trials and tribulations of my wedding gown. I have to give you the back story before i get to the REALLY funny part.

My seamstress made my dress very tight, partially because she was a crazy lady who was always busy with a million other things (recap about her craziness here) and partially because i needed it to be tight to hold the girls in. Anyway we arrive at the hotel to get ready and the hook at the top of the dress breaks off because "crazy" seamstress used a thread instead of the other side of the hook. Hence having nothing to keep the zipper up anymore. After many tears from me, two bottles of wine and my amazing bridesmaid Lizz & her mom we decided to sew seams across the zipper to keep it from coming undone throughout the night.

(Here you can see Lizz and her mom sewing)

The night came to an end and the dress held up fabulously. Mr. Steve and I get back to the hotel and i inform him of my dress ordeal and explain he has to cut the seams with scissors in order to get the zipper down. Unfortunately the scissors we previously placed in the room were no longer there. (thanks megan! haha) So I called down to the front desk of the hotel to get scissors, which I'm sure the concierge was confused as to why the newlywed couple in the jacuzzi suite was calling down for scissors at midnight. Needless to say, they did not have scissors small enough to get under the small tightly sewn seams. Mr. Steve then tried everything from using a key to cut the seams to trying to pull the dress off over my head or down my body with no luck. At this point it had been an hour since we had gotten back to the hotel and i was beginning to panic. I became claustrophobic in the dress and thought about how i would have to sleep in it, and check out and go home in the next day too. We were both very frustrated at that point and the wedding night was looking like it would be uneventful to say the least. (haha) I called one of my bridesmaids crying to get some help/support but then realized she was dealing with her own dilemma (She had pulled over on the side of the highway so her bf could throw up from all the fun at the wedding)

At this point it was about an hour and a half since we had returned, i had been wearing my wedding dress for about 8 hours, and had no solution in sight. I proceeded to go into the bathroom and rip as hard as i could to get it off. Not only did it not budge but i ended up breaking the zipper instead. I then walking into the bedroom with tears coming down my face and said to Mr. Steve "I just broke the zipper and i really cant get this dress off! JUST RIP IT OFF!" At that point he grabbed it by the two sides of the zipper and RIIIIIIIIIIPPPPPPPPEEED! We got it off but not in one piece but it was literally in 3 pieces at that point. The zipper, the lining, and the taffeta. We laughed hysterically and knew the "trash the dress" photoshoot for the next day would have to be postponed until i could get my dress reconstructed. So it is still sitting in the cloth protectant bag in multiple pieces but a memorable night to say the least.

Sneak Peak-Venue

2009-09-22T21:23:00.000-07:00

(Photos courtesy of Josie)

Our Venue looked AMAZING thanks to JP Event Design, our wedding planner & team.
It was in a loft space called Reading Art Works. Thought i would post a sneak peak picture of our decor. I am anxious for recaps but i want to get the professional pics back before i start.

Officially Mr. & Mrs. Wedding 09.19.09

2009-09-20T20:29:00.000-07:00

We cried, we laughed, we drank, we danced......we wed.
It was the happiest day of my life!! Abvove is alittle teaser picture. Many many more recaps to come.

Wedding Eve

2009-09-18T05:19:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how quick this wedding has crept up on me. After the long year and a half of planning and here it is. Many many many errands to run today, then the rehearsal and dinner and tomorrow....I will officially be Mrs. Wedding 091909. Thank you all so much for the continued support, inspiration, and readers. Stay tuned for the recaps to come......

Out with the old....

2009-09-11T17:40:00.000-07:00

and in with the new. I've been a bad blogger but we are back on track and finalizing away. Some changes that were made....

~~Orange Chairs~~
~~Jerk Station, Fish Station, Butlered Hor'dourves~~
~~Lighting Package~~
~~Extra Hour of Reception~~
~~Florist Made Flower Ball Centerpieces & bouquets~~

Though some of the changes were necessary. Some we made just to be more practical and i have to say we weren't really sad to see them go. We now are having stationary hor'dourves, pasta stations, making our own flower centerpieces and bouquets, and using the standard white chairs. (My only sad substitution, the white chairs, i had a dream of color everywhere and no white anywhere but my dress) We couldn't be more thankful or happier for the support from our family and friends. We know the day is going to be fabulous!!! Eight days left!!!

I made these for the bridesmaid bouquets....and it cost $5.00 wahoo!!!! The dark flowers in the middle are very close the bridesmaid dress color. All i have to do it wrap the stems in orange ribbon and VOILA!

Bottoms up!

2009-08-24T11:40:00.000-07:00

"There is always one thing you should take out with you on a Saturday night... your girlfriends!" Thank you soo much to all the ladies, it was FABULOUS!
Bachelorette party recap......Saturday August 22nd, Atlantic City, Nj.

5 Years Ago Today.....

2009-08-14T12:17:00.000-07:00

Mr. Steve and i decided to "officially" start dating.

One of our first pictures together (2004)

Photo from this past weekend at my birthday (2009)

We have had hard times, rough times, amazing times, incredible times, and everything in between. I love him with all my heart.
We will be celebrating this weekend on our annual Sea Isle City, Nj shore trip with family and friends. Which is also where we celebrated our engagement together.
Happy 5 Year Anniversary to us!

Serious Talent...

2009-08-13T10:45:00.000-07:00

Alyssa Andrew-Photographer

(All Photos courtesy of Alyssa Andrew Photography)

I thought i would share one of the most amazingly talented photographers,Alyssa Andrew.
I never got the pleasure of actually meeting Alyssa but we have emailed, facebooked, and myspaced as she is a good friend of one of my friends. Her work is stunning, she is wonderfully sweet and down to earth.
Anyway I could talk about how talented she is for hours but her work speaks for itself. It is breath taking. Her weddings are great, i love her intimate bride and grooms photos like the first one above. I have to say though some of my favorites are her portraits of babies! Love them. Be sure to visit her blog and contact her with any photography needs. She is located in Allentown, Pa. Contact info on her website.

If you were Carrie Bradshaw...

2009-08-06T22:50:00.001-07:00

and you got to chose a wedding gown from your vogue shoot.....

The designer gowns in order of appearance.....
1-Vera Wang
2-Carolina Herrera
3-Christian Lacroix
4-Lanvin
5-Dior
6-Oscar De La Renta
7-Vivienne Westwood

Which would you chose?

I adore the ruffles on the vera wang but i would have to pick the Oscar De La Renta!!

Rsvp Mad Libs

2009-08-05T06:45:00.000-07:00

Everyday when i get home from work i run to the mailbox to read the rsvp cards we got back from that day. They have been hilarious and fun!

The best line from the card......
We wish them (#) years of happiness and _____(Verb)______ with each other.

So far in that blank we have gotten....."hot rough sex", "lots of laughter", "nakedness" (my favorite "babies") "singing".....needless to say they have been the highlight of our wedding planning at the moment. Clearly our friends and family have dirty minds. Hahaha!

Wedding dream nightmares

2009-07-25T10:13:00.001-07:00

I have been having nightmares about the wedding recently. Last night was by far the worst and most bizarre.

First instead of being in our beautiful loft venue we were in a huge room with winnie the pooh paintings on the wall and they werent even pretty like this one. (WTF!?)

Then the food stations were right in the middle of our aisle so we had to say our vows in front of gross and disgusting looking food.

Thenn finally there was harldy anyone there.....mostly empty chairs

It was so strange and depressing. Anyone else having nightmares about their upcoming wedding?

Signed, Sealed, & Delivered

2009-07-22T21:14:00.000-07:00

The invites were finally completed and sent out on Tuesday....wahooo!!!!!
Mr. Steve and I do not consider ourselves very traditional people. We wanted our invites to not only reflect our modern, urban theme but us in general. In an effort to save money i though i would be a "do it yourself" bide to be. (Although it did save a tremendous about of money, it took a lot of time and labor.)
We found invites we loved but they were letter pressed and not in the budget. We thought they went with our style and theme so we used them as inspiration.
Price Breakdown...We were lucky enough to have one of Steve's groomsman design the graphics, my cousin who is a photographer do the pictures and the printing all for free. Thank you Ben and Jess!

50.56-Stamps .64 cents on 79 invites
5.00-Ribbon
7.00-Envelopes
6.00-Return Address stickers
50.00-RSVP post cards
Free-graphics, pictures, and paper
_____________________________________
Total = $118.56 which is amazing

Anyway here you have it..... Our three panel invite.
Sorry the pics are bad, click on them to see larger.

It folds up and becomes the picture of us

Hotel Accommodations,Main Invite, Directions

Rsvp Card

Picture on the cover...we changed the drawing in the background to only hearts.

Zen Bride (bride to be must read post)

2009-07-21T18:51:00.000-07:00

One of the many amazing gifts i received from Mr. Steve's Aunt Pat at my shower was a little bath kit and a book called "The Zen Bride." Though i have not gotten around to using the bath kit, the book was AWESOME.
I am going to sum up some of the activities & quotes included in this book for you because they are super helpful and informative.

Positive Vibing

Take a piece of paper and divide it into 3 columns.
1. In the first column list your top five wedding/what could go wrong fears.
Example in the book: My fear is that it will be pouring rain on my wedding day.

2. Now take a moment to visualize how you would handle or solve each one of your five problems should they occur.
Example: It's pouring outside and the rained "plan b" i created goes into effect and all of my vendors are aware of plan b.

3. After each visualization write down briefly how you handled this problem in column two.

4. Now, finally in the 3rd column write down a positive statement after turning your negative fear into a positive.
Example: Everything is going to go smoothly rain or shine, and everyone knows that to do!

5. Now take a separate piece of paper and make a list of all positive statements from column three and carry it around with you. At any time you find yourself getting overwhelmed or worrying just read your positive statements.

"The Dessert Island Exercise" (My favorite)

Sit down with your fiance, each with a piece of paper and pen.
Pretend the two of you are stranded on a deserted island but it is full of everything you need in terms of necessities forever....food, bed, shelter, etc. You have everything except no personal items.
You both are allowed to bring only 5 personal items and they can be anything.

What are the 10 things you and your fiance would bring?

Our Example:

My List
1. Our dogs Smokey & Moo
2. Pictures of our family and friends
3. Steve's collection of music
4. Beer & wine
5. My pillie i have had since i was 3. (brings me comfort)

Mr. Steve's List (he only had four)
1.Our dogs
2.Dope Sneakers
3.Computer/Internet to stay in touch with our family and friends
4.music

Now review your lists, they show you the important elements you should have at your wedding. The items don't have to be so literal either. But they can be, in the book one of the examples was a surf board on his list and a journal on hers which could translate into a beach theme wedding, or journal favors with a surf board print on them.
What makes the exercise important is that it helps you bypass your logical/rational brain and helps you go directly to the heart.

What Mr. Steve and I lists in review.......

Our dogs were both our number one and we incorporated them into the wedding. They will be coming down the aisle in a wagon with our ring bearers.

Our love for our family and friends, hence a big wedding with everyone we love there to share it.

Beer & wine, which will be present at our wedding. Got to love open bar!!

Though my ratty old pillow "pillie" will not be attending the wedding and he will not be part of our theme haha i took it as more of a feeling of comfort which is why we decided to have the wedding and reception at the same location to keep that intimate feel.

Steve's Sneakers-His groomsman gifts were custom nike sneakers for all of them to wear for the wedding.

Alterations Part One & 100th post

2009-07-20T07:09:00.000-07:00

We are back on board ladies with me IN LOVE with my dress again. You may remember this post about me feeling awful about it but.....
After seeing it pinned, nipped, and tucked....all i can say is BEAUTIFUL!!!

Our seamstress who we were referred to by a family friend really knows what she is talking about and her work speaks for itself. I am so excited and she is going to make me a lace bolero!! WAHOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
On another note, she works out of her home and let me say it was a bit of a mad house. If she did not come highly recommended and i couldn't really see her amazing craftsmanship and expertise i might have run out of there screaming. Think animal shelter meets an orphanage. (hahah) It still scares me a bit but her work was impeccable.

Alteration break down....

*Bustle (3 point) which i think looks like i have a second ass but my bridesmaids loved it so....
*Changing the neckline to a sweetheart neckline
*Hemming
*Bolero being made
*Taking the bust in tight so i don't have to wear a bra
and viola there you have it!

Ps This is my 100th post and how appropriate that it is about me loving my wedding gown!!! Thank you everyone for all the support, followers, avid readers, and sweet comments. This has been so fun and my sanity for the past year. Thank you!

Un"veil" Yourself.....

2009-07-20T06:32:00.000-07:00

I'm a firm believer that you can tell a lot about a bride by her veil choice. (classic, vintage, modern, etc) In the midst off all the similar looking white wedding gowns, a veil can make or break your wedding attire in my opinion.
i want something modern but timeless. I am very short and with a lace bolero on my dress i feel a traditional veil will just be overwhelming on me.

Right now i am swooning over this lovely on etsy. from the seller tie and feathered.

Its very me but im worried it might be overkill with the flower since there is a huge flower on my dress.

This was my original choice. From the seller portobello on etsy.

Just some simply feathers and broach.

Ahhh what to do? We are at the TWO MONTH mark....yes i said TWO MONTHS!!!! and there so much more to do........
Which do you like better?

Bridal Shower Recap

2009-07-14T20:06:00.000-07:00

My bridal shower was last Saturday and what a blast! From cosmos to penis scratch off tickets and pool pong.(a floating beer pong table) It was SOOOOO special to have everyone i love and care about there. It was so much fun. People should have these once a year...Hahaha! It was seriously amazing and Sex and the city themed. Thank you sooo much everyone who came it was one of the most fabulous days of my life.

The Bridesmaids & Me
Lizz, Stacy, Lisa, Me, Keely, Megan, Kim

Shower Location
My Suzie's House

Shower Favors
Shoe picture holders with a picture of me from when i was little in it.

The Yummy Cake

Mr. Steve-Q & a

2009-07-13T00:38:00.000-07:00

I first saw this on the beginning of forever blog and thought what a fabulous idea!!!
Getting to know Mr. Wedding091909
Since all my followers get to know me so well and all the details of our big day, why not take the time to let you all get to know the man behind Wedding091909.
So please ask away? I am very interested to see what he has to say?
The fiance, Mr. Steve will be a guest blogger for the answer portion of this post.

Please all followers, fellow bloggers, and anyone who visits the site feel free to ask Mr. Steve any question (About himself, the wedding, our relationship, anything) in the comment portion of this post.

Invitation Cover Shoot

2009-07-06T08:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Mr. Steve and i had a photo shoot for the cover of our invitations.
They are going to be soooo awesome. Here is a little sneak peak.

It involved this old abandoned warehouse (which was very scary and had homeless peoples beds inside)

These in orange and pink

Our fun attire which went with our love park theme. Mr. Steve's "true" and my "love" shirt

Our amazing babies.....

and a vintage boombox.....

and much much more.....ill be posting the final invitations soon.

Wedding events wardrobe begins...

2009-07-02T21:47:00.000-07:00

First up...
Bridal Shower
So my bridal shower is Saturday July 11th. I am so excited to see spend the day with all the girls i love the most! I cant not wait. I searched FOREVER for a cute outfit to wear. It will probably be hot and it taking place mostly outside and OH YES my loves came through and ITS SEX AND THE CITY THEMED!!! WAHOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I decided on this blue dress with a yellow belt to give it shape and these cute yellow wedge sandals i already had. I am planning on dressing it up with some amazing jewelry!
Shoes=Target Dress & belt=oldnavy (I am a serious bargin shopper)

Real Wedding-Kaite & Rick

2009-06-27T13:55:00.000-07:00

I have had the same best friend since Kindergarten, Lizz. When my mom passed away i was fortunate enough to move in with her family. It was the biggest blessing that has ever happened to me. Lizz was the youngest of three sisters and this is the wedding of her oldest sister Katie. They have always felt like and treated me like i was one of their sisters as well...so this wedding was a very special day.
It was by far one of the most beautiful weddings. Newport, RI was amazing. The whole event was held at a mansion on an ocean cliff. The ceremony on the cliff and the reception inside their ballroom.
Katie and Rick's wedding was very elegant and classic. It translated into this beautiful day. The beauty of them and the day looks like it could have been in a magazine. Hope this will inspire other bride to bes.
Location- Newport,Rhode Island
Colors-Purple & Yellow
Dress-Melissa Sweet

Its your girl "T"....Its your boy "Steve"

2009-06-22T05:18:00.000-07:00

Beyoncé - New Music - More Music Videos

Beyonce featuring Jayz "Crazy in love" I keep thinking about how it seems like the perfect entrance into the reception song. I love the song, love the video. Maybe because i just wish i could shake my bum like beyonce. Haha either way i think its a keeper.
What song did you/planning to use as your big announcement as man and wife song?

Rsvp cards...sneak peak

2009-06-18T07:11:00.000-07:00

We are still working on our wedding invites and let me say....they are very nontraditional, fabulous, and totally us!
I thought i would let you have a sneak peak at the RSVP cards since they are completed just to give you a taste. Our amazing friend (one of the groomsman) was so kind as to do all the graphics for us. So thank you soooooo much benny!
Enjoy our urban theme RSVP post cards. The quality of the picture isn't that great bit i assure you, in real life the are amazing! If you click on the photo you can see it larger.

Having my cake & eating it too.....

2009-06-18T00:47:00.000-07:00

Sharing a bit of our inspiration for our wedding cake.
Orange fondant, grey circles (like in the picture) and fuchsia rim. Our cake topper will be the love park logo in one of our three colors, one of our uniform themes.
Cake flavors are still to be determined. I did try a champagne flavored cake (the cake was a pale pink color on the inside and let me tell you....It was heaven!
What are some of the flavors you chose?

This is why I am getting married.....

2009-06-09T08:52:00.001-07:00

So sorry I have been MIA. I have been busy with.......yep you guessed it, wedding stuff. Our invitations to be exact. I will be posting about them very soon.

Anyway i had an amazing weekend with Mr. Steve and the dogs. When i woke up and got ready for work this morning,to my surprise, there was a love note waiting for me.
It read...

Baby, I love you so much.
Sunday with you & the babies (he means our dogs)
will always be one of the
most fun, happy, love filled
days I've ever had.
I couldn't imagine my life without you.
You are my heart and soul,
my everything.
I love you.
SH
+ TL
------
:o) 4ever! (Eternal Happiness)

Yes there was really a smiley face drawn and our initials plus each other just like grade school kids draw. It was amazingly sweet and made my day.

Twilight Saga: New Moon Trailer

2009-06-02T13:28:00.000-07:00

Non wedding related post. In case you missed it, here is the trailer for the next installment of Twilight. The second movie, based on the second book "New Moon."

Mixed Thoughts.....After 6 Months Of Waiting

2009-05-28T10:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went to the bridal shop to pick up my dress. I went into the room put it on, came out, stood on the pedestal, looked in the mirror, and was to excited to speak.

My random thoughts.......
"Beautiful!"
"I picked the perfect dress."
"I look sooooo skinny! Perfect dress for my body."
"I feel amazing in this dress! Finally!"
"I cant wait for Mr. Steve to see this!"
"Dont need to beat myself up about dieting/gym, i look AMAZING."
"How am i going to pee in this thing?" Hahahahahahahaa

It was pretty big in the waist and bust, which i was expecting. Plus i was rather relieved that it wasn't to small. The shop does not do in house alterations so i was prepared for the process of then taking it to a seamstress. I left the shop happy, glowing, ecstatic, with no worries.

But then.....I went home, put it on and took a picture......SHOULDN'T have done that till it was altered and my makeup & hair were done nicely.

My thoughts on the picture of me in the dress at home.....
"Is there a body under all that white fabric?"
"I look like a cupcake"
"My ass didn't look that huge in the skinny mirrors at the shop!"
"I can not marry the love of my life looking like this!"
"Delete these pictures immediately and forget it ever happened!"

So i am going to try and forget that i ruined my experience, take my dress to a seamstress. Hopefully once it fits correctly, i will feel so happy again. I was totally bipolar yesterday. How could my thoughts change in just a few hours.
Any words of encouragement or similar situations fellow bridal bloggers???

After 6 months of waiting....

2009-05-26T13:22:00.000-07:00

I got the call today that my dress is in!!!!!!! Six months is just way to long to have to wait for something so important.
This is even more exciting/scary because i haven't tried it on in my actual size. The sample was way to small. AHHH!!!!!!! I cant wait to pick it up. I hope i love it as much as i did when i picked it out. Will be posting pictures tomorrow.

Here is a little recap of the dress.

Just Do It!

2009-05-19T11:15:00.000-07:00

If you follow my blog then you know my fiance, Mr. Steve, is a HUGE sneaker fan. (Nikes mostly) He has more shoes than i do. He has even camped out for exclusive sneakers.

So it is no surprise that as his groomsman gifts as well as part of their wedding day attire, we would create custom made Nike sneakers. On Saturday we traveled to NYC's Niketown store and had an appointment in their ID studio to create our own.
We made 10 pairs (7 for the groomsman, 2 for my brothers, and 1 for Mr. Steve) We used about four different fabrics in dark grey and white colors. We even used their newest feature, laser etching around the trim to make them look more like dress shoes. They printed us cute little credit cards with mini shoe boxes to give to each of the boys. It was a blast!

Ps Did i mention we even got to Id them. If you look closely or clic on the pic of the shoes to enlarge it, our id, on the back side of the sneakers is the date of our wedding day, 09.19.09.

Flower Power

2009-05-14T18:23:00.001-07:00

After our first florist malfunction, my wedding planner recommended her florist.
We met with her yesterday and it went great!
We narrowed our choices and finally picked our floral choices for bouquets, boutonnieres, and centerpieces.
* Pink Carnations
* Orange Carnations
* Orange Roses
* Fuchsia Stock Flowers
* Fuchsia Wax Flowers (not really wax)

Will post pictures of mock centerpieces when we see them.

Wedding Registry..Check!

2009-05-10T22:05:00.001-07:00

We finally completed our wedding registry. We registered at Target. We did not need to many things as we already have most of it. It was super fun and i know that when the shower and wedding get closer, i am sure i will check it like a little kid checking under the tree at Christmas.
Our most expensive registry item, the platinum lightweight hoover bag vacuum for $399.99.

Not that we are expecting anyone to spend that much on us, but it would be great for a few people to go in on, as it is the item i am most excited for.(We have been through about 3 vacuums now. All breaking. My boss owns the oreck and it is AMAZING! This is the hoover equivalent.)

What was your most expensive registry item?

Catering WOES!!!!!!!!!

2009-05-06T20:12:00.000-07:00

First let me say this has hands down been the longest and hardest process.

We wanted a Caribbean/Mediterranean menu...buffet style.

When we first sign on with our venue over a year ago, they only had one catering package option.
----> Then they had a list of approved caterers to chose from.
----> Then they hired one and fired him.
----> Then they hired one who was amazing and we finalized the perfect menu in our budget but he wasn't delivering supposedly and they fired him.
So that has been our process....

Now they hired Boscovs' (yes the dept store has a catering service, EW) that i like to call Jercovs' and we have been negotiating with them for months about the menu and price that the last caterer promised us. We have finally got to "SOMEWHAT" reasonable price but are still trying to finalize the details on the exact menu. AHHH I HATE IT!!!

Anyone else have any catering woes?

Dog Wedding Day Attire

2009-05-01T09:01:00.000-07:00

Our dogs will be coming down the aisle on our wedding day. They love clothes and i couldn't find anything for them to wear that went with our color palette. So last night i decided to make my own.
It cost me about $10 total for their outfits and it was so much fun.

Moo (Girl Jack Russell/Chihuahua Mix) will be wearing this tutu. I bought the netting for about $1.20 and the ribbon was $2. Went to town with my glue gun and added Velcro in case she grows a bit. The flowers were embroidered that i just glued on and the metallic studs.

Smokey (boy long haired Chihuahua) will be wearing a collar and tie. His still needs some alterations and the "Love" park logo put onto his tie.
I bought an infants collared shirt at goodwill for $1 and cut the collar off. I then bought a clip on tie at goodwill for .50 and cut it so it was short. I bought grey silk fabric for about $1 and covered the tie so it would match. Then i just went to town again with my glue gun.

Guilty Pleasure-Heidi Montag & Spencer Pratt Wedding

2009-04-28T06:27:00.000-07:00

Apparently they officially tied the knot. First saw some pics from my favorite celebrity blogger Perez Hilton. I have to admit I LOVE her Monique Lhullier gown.

"I let the wedding get bigger than big."

2009-04-28T05:11:00.001-07:00

If anyone has seen the satc movie you know that carrie gets wrapped up in all the wedding planning and Mr. Big feels like they are losing themselves in their huge over the top wedding.
Although our wedding is not overly extravagant in any way, the planning process has been getting stressful for Mr. Steve and myself. Last night we had a long conversation about the situation.
Mr. Steve can't understand how so much time, money, and effort goes into planning just 8 hours of one day. In his eyes, the day is about us getting married and it doesn't matter to him if there are flowers on the table, or beautiful linens, or great food. As long as there is music and drinks, he is happy.
Though i tried to make him understand we just agreed to disagree on some things.
For example he doesn't understand why we have to have things hanging from the ceiling. I tried to explain to him that we are trying to create a certain ambiance, and the amount of money we are spending is VERY little in comparison to most weddings these days. He knows i am not an extravagant person and when it comes to money i am more frugal and budget conscious than he is. So we went to bed a bit salty but both seeing the others point. So in the end we compromised. Isn't that what marriage is all about?

Are there any other brides out there that are having similar planning stresses?

Happy Earth Day Everyone!....Real Wedding

2009-04-22T07:19:00.001-07:00

Hazele and Kyle's wedding. First seen on Wedding Chicks. Can view more of the wedding here.

My breakfast @ Tiffanys..

2009-04-20T12:48:00.000-07:00

I am coveting. Don't get me wrong i am IN LOVE IN LOVE IN LOVE with my engagement ring. So much so that i randomly stare at it. Plus i LOVE what it represents even more. But if Mr. Steve and I had loads and loads of money......i would have liked to have a very nice (aka expensive antique art deco ring) or this this bad boy from Tiffany's for an insane $13,000.
If you could have chosen your own ring and money was no object what would you have picked?

Wedding Favors.....

2009-04-20T12:14:00.000-07:00

This might be the only wedding detail Mr. Steve is taking over.
An apothecary style candy bar as one of our favors for our guests.
We will have a wall of candy bags in our colors, with the "love" park emblem on them hanging above the candy buffet to jazz it up a bit. A wonderful collaboration between our wedding planner, one of her interns, and Mr. Steve.

Channeling my inner "Carrie Bradshaw"

2009-04-18T01:26:00.000-07:00

My wedding shoes have arrived!!!
Although i could have gone down a half size, i wanted to be safe rather than sorry.(I think they still look fabulous!) I feel sexy and beautiful in them. They remind me so much of something Carrie Bradshaw would wear on Sex and The City but she would pair them with some crazy mismatched patterns and probably hot pants.
I am in love with them and can not believe they were only $20. I am that much closer to having my complete wedding day ensemble.
Ps Don't mind my pale legs. (will be tanning soon. So bad for you i know. Just for the wedding) Or my unfinished/need touch up tattoos.

Favorite Celebrity Weddings

2009-04-15T11:34:00.000-07:00

Some of my favorites in no particular order....

Chistina Agulera & Jordan Bratman (click on pictures to see them larger)

Tori Spelling and Dean McDermott

Gwen Stafani and Gavin Rossdale

Wedding Planner=Love

2009-04-15T10:39:00.000-07:00

When we started the planning process of our wedding, i got off to a good start and then lost my mojo. I no idea how to negotiate with vendors mainly because i had no idea what was reasonable costs for flowers, catering, etc. was.
Then came the loft where our whole day will take place. I started panicking as i thought about how we were going to decorate 6000 square feet of open space. The list of my worries went on and on. So i then decided to look into hiring a wedding planner. Though many people around me kept asking questions like "What do you need a wedding planner for? and Wedding planner are to expensive!"
I emailed various wedding planners around our area and Judy Moore Of JP Event Design emailed me back that same day and we set up time to meet that weekend. We hit it off right from the start. Her experience and ideas for our wedding had me hooked. Not to mention she was one of the most adorable and fabulous people i have ever met.
We could not be happier or more excited about "our angel" aka our wedding planner.
She has negotiated with vendors, is in the process of planning out our decor vision, and has kept me virtually stress free as well becoming a great friend. I can not stress enough how excited we are to have her and her team on board. Just the thought of not having to set anything up the day of and being able to enjoy the day with our family and friends was reason enough for hiring her company and she has gone above and beyond.
Please visit their website (JP Event Design) and if you are in Pennsylvania or surrounding areas, New York, New Jersey, etc. and need an event planner...they are AMAZING!

With that being said i have some SUPER FUN news to post about. Yes i am basking in this. I received an email yesterday and here is the short version of it.

Hi Tina,

I also wanted to ask you if it's okay if a photographer from the Philadelphia Inquirer stops in to take some photos during the meeting. I was interviewed for a wedding article a few months ago and they called to say they wanted a photo of a client meeting. Of course, I would want my favorite bride in the photo, so I can ask them to come on Sunday if it's okay with you...
Let me know!
Judy

I am so happy her company is going to get some great publicity and that she wants us to be apart of it!!! WAHOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Real Wedding-AMAZING decor

2009-04-10T15:00:00.000-07:00

Jennifer and Vincent were married in November at the Lanikuhonua Estate on the island of Oahu. I first saw this wedding on Little Black Book Blog.
I was drooling over her vintage dress and accessories and the decor for this wedding is fabulous! Feather fun!

What am i most looking forward to....

2009-04-08T05:51:00.000-07:00

I am very much anticipating the moment i see Mr. Steve for the first time on our big day. It will be when i walk down the aisle. It gives me butterflies every time i think about it and it has to be the moment i am most looking forward to.
I told him its ok to cry. Haha He insists he wont, we will see.

Fabulous Wedding Dress for $5.00???

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

Angie found her dress at a used-clothing warehouse in Montreal where you pay for your clothes by the pound. "I found the dress shoved in a box," she says. "It's from the 50's, it's gorgeous, and it fits me. I bought the dress, matching jacket and veil for $5. I feel like I won the lottery!"

Read the full story here.

This dress may just be one of my favorite wedding gowns ever! I wish i was that lucky! haha

Bridesmaid Dresses Chosen

2009-03-28T22:23:00.000-07:00

This has been a long process for me but after this weekend the dresses are officially chosen and ordered.
All Designer-Jim Hjelm
They will all be in tissue taffeta and color Blackberry (dark pinky/purple)

Megan's Dress...

Keely, Stacy, & Lizzy's Dress...

Kim's Dress....Front & Back

Lisa's dress...

Antoinette's dress...

!!!!! Daily Jewelry Deals !!!!

2009-03-27T21:46:00.000-07:00

So my fiance found this website that updates daily at midnight. We check it everyday to see what we can find. We have seen everything from diamond necklaces, to gemstone jewelry, to watches, and everything else. They have really really great deals!! We have seen watches for $100 that retail for over $400. They are a reputable site and we know people who have ordered from them and the quality of their products were fantastic.

Now I'm getting to the point...We checked it at midnight tonight as we always do and what did we find??? the exact wedding band Mr. Steve was looking for!!
7mm Mirror Finish Genuine Tungsten Carbide Comfort Fit Mens Ring

Guess how much it was? $27.00!! (Also if you order from this site enter code save2 to save two dollars) So we got his wedding band for $25.00 and free shipping. Fabulous!
Don't forget to check this site daily for their updated deals.
Diamond Shark Deals

A womans right to shoes.....

2009-03-27T15:40:00.000-07:00

So i totally wanted orange shoes....
Well after looking at a billion places and finding nothing not even a pink pair or a grey pair i liked or was in my price range....i decided "what the hell, i cant be a stylish, colorfull bride with everything."

These Forver21 pair had everything i wanted except for a splash of color.

High heel since Mr. Steve is 6'2 & im 5'2
Something to make them a bit more funky (the flower which totally matches the flower on my dress.
And an AMAZING price $20.80

WAHOOOOOO!!!! Hopefully they fit and look fabulous!

First Dance Song!!!!

2009-03-26T23:50:00.001-07:00

Thank you for all your votes. We finally picked one.....YAHH!!! and it wasnt any of the choices on the list. Haha (The video might be the cutest thing ever too!)
* Plain White Ts
* Song-1234

Lyrics
1,2 - 1 2 3 4
give me more lovin then i've ever had.
make it all better when i'm feelin sad.
tell me that i'm special even when i know i'm not.
make me feel good when i hurt so bad.
barely gettin mad,
im so glad i found you.
i love bein around you.
you make it easy,
as easy as 1 2,(1 2 3 4.)
theres only one thing two do three words four you.
i love you.
(i love you)
theres only one way two say those three words
and that's what i'll do.
i love you.
(i love you)
give me more lovin from the very start.
piece me back together when i fall apart.
tell me things you never even tell your closest friends.
make me feel good when i hurt so bad.
best that i've had.
im so glad that i found you.
i love bein around you.
you make it easy as easy as 1 2,(1 2 3 4.)
theres only one thing two do three words four you.
i love you.
(i love you)
theres only one way two say those three words
and that's what i'll do.
i love you.i love you
(i love you)

Ceremony Decor

2009-03-26T13:28:00.000-07:00

We had a meeting with the florist last week. We want an archway/hoopa (though we are not Jewish) We want something visually stimulating to get married in front of since our ceremony will be taking place at the same loft space as the reception.

We are using this photo as our inspiration. Though ours is made out of iron and will have hanging candles and fabric/flower balls in our colors of orange and fuchsia.

Blog Neglect...

2009-03-21T18:01:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've been absent from the blogosphere because my other obsession besides weddings came out on dvd at midnight on Friday. Yes i waited in line like a 15 year old girl for my copy. Be back on the wedding track on Monday.

Ps You should see the movie immediately and read all 4 books asap!

Just some more video love....

2009-03-18T06:13:00.001-07:00

Sonya & Johnny Wedding Highlights from Vancouver Wedding Video on Vimeo.

Finally.....Cinematography Style

2009-03-17T12:40:00.000-07:00

I have been searching for wedding videos that are shot the way Steve and I would like to have ours shot. More like a movie. Here are a few all from Mayad Studios. I think they are the perfect touch between amazing cinematography and also keeping the personal, conversation elements true in the moment. Now just have to show our videographer and hope we can accomplish something similar....

dave and annette from Mayad Studios on Vimeo.

Lito and Noreen from Mayad Studios on Vimeo.

Boracay Fever part 1: Mich and Pao from Mayad Studios on Vimeo.

Jane and Gerald from Mayad Studios on Vimeo.

Undergarments anyone?

2009-03-17T05:13:00.000-07:00

Since my recent dress purchase i have been scouring the Internet for the perfect undergarments. I have not been having very good luck.
I need something that is going to slim and smooth my problem area stomach as well as lift the girls up. It has to be white or nude and strapless.ps.....I need it to have a "D" cup which makes it more difficult.
Obviously hence a corset BUT.......i need a full body one cause the half ones cut me off and creates bulge where there shouldn't be.
The only ones i could find where...
* Fredericks of hollywood

SHAPEWEAR BODYBRIEFER (hopefully the straps are detachable)

I would like something more like this with the boning but it cant be separated from my the skibbies.

Any solutions anyone!??

Get your tissues out!!!! Jade Goody

2009-03-16T21:05:00.001-07:00

I am sure all of you have heard of Jade Goody. She was a reality TV star on the show Big Brother. I never watched the show so i cant agree or disagree with the very mean things that have been said about her.

Well anyway she is dying of cervical cancer. She has been letting paparazzi film her and take pictures of her, not for the prospect of more 15 minutes of fame but to raise money for her two children before she passes. Which they are saying could be any day now.

She decided to have a wedding before she passes on and here are some moving and truly beautiful videos and pictures from her wedding. She is truly a BEAUTIFUL bride!!!!
My prayers are with her and her family.

Jade Goody & Her bridesmaids before the wedding

First Dance

Speech to her family and friends

End Of the night fireworks

Put your John Hancock here....

2009-03-16T20:10:00.001-07:00

Krista's post inspired me to post about my feelings on becoming "Mrs. Steven Hegeman" and taking his name.

Remeber when you could doodle your name + your boyfriends name on your notebook in grade school to see what it would look like....Well its the real deal now.

First let me start off by introducing myself....

Christina Marie Lountzis
(I go by Tina all the time though)

My name came from my yia-yia(grandmother in greek) deciding i needed to have a first name with a greek orign to go with my greek last name. (Same last name as my mother's last name "Lountzis" since i do not know my father)
Anyway my mother passed away when i was 13. Her and our Greek heritage is VERY important to me. I don't want to loose any part of that, her, or my greek last name. It makes me feel connected to her, my grandparents, and Greece.
Hence not wanting to give up my last name. Although i feel nothing but blessed by taking Steve's last name, how can i make this all work?

The Solution?

Hyphenating-Christina Marie Lountzis-Hegeman (Super long!)
or
Taking it as another middle name-Christina Marie Lountzis Hegeman
or
Get rid of my middle name altogether-Christina Lountzis Hegeman (kinda sad)

What do you think?

Hello.....RETRO!

2009-03-15T19:57:00.000-07:00

We picked our lines and chairs.......

Raspberry Linens
&
Orange Chairs and napkins

We are still looking for a charcoal grey or charcoal patterned runner to break up the bight colors.

Dress Over Analyzing

2009-03-12T06:49:00.000-07:00

I hate the way it looks in the designer picture, it is way more beautiful in person, on a person who isn't an unrealistic size 0 with no curves, and in ivory.

So yes the dress is bought and purchased and should be in my hands june/july.

A few problems.......

#1 Although I love my dress (Watters & Watters-Wtoo Collection-Eva) and got it for an AMAZING price ($599) it makes me a bit sad because i always saw myself in an all lace gown.

#2 I always knew that i wanted to wear a short sleeve lace bolero. (Like the one pictured above) There is no changing my mind on this one. BUT WILL IT LOOK RIGHT WITH THIS DRESS???????? ahhhh!!

#3 Birdcage veil is a must! But i am worried. Since the dress has a sash with a flower, which yes i thought about removing it, but it completely makes the dress and adds a waist line. Will a birdcage veil with feathers or a flower attached it to be way to much!??? I thought about doing it on a smaller scale and having it on the opposite side in my hair that the flower is on the dress.

HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Questions that I need to be answered
Is the dress ok?
Will a lace bolero look ok with this dress?
Can i still rock a birdcage veil and looking like bridal overkill?...

Feeling the pain...

2009-03-11T22:21:00.000-07:00

Does anyone else find themselves a bit guilty that there wedding is happening during a recession? Not only for our planning sake but for our family and friends who are helping pay and our guests having to buy us gifts.
Steve and I had found ourselves hurting (like most) from the recession and feel the pinch when it comes to planning our wedding.
I actually used the the sentence "No way! We are in a recession!" to numerous venders lately. Today for example when we thought about upgrading our linens to a pintuck linen, and we were quoted $50 a linen.
Anyone else feeling the pinch and finding themselves cutting back when it comes to their wedding and much much more DYI projects?

Wedding Planning Money Savers

1. Trim Your Wedding Guest List
Each time you add a name to your invitation list, you're increasing your budget significantly. It's not just the catering costs, but also the extra centerpieces, favors, rentals, etc. Don't invite anyone you haven't talked to in five years. Don't feel obligated to let single people bring a date. Avoid feeling pressured to invite all your work colleagues. And don't let your friends bring their children. You can also decide to eliminate categories like "relatives more distant than first cousins" or "friends from volunteer work." By not inviting anyone from that group, you'll help avoid hurt feelings.
(Our list quickly went from over 200 down to 160)

2. Shop Sample Sales and the Internet for Cheap Wedding Dresses
If you wear a 6, 8, or 10, check out sample sales, which generally happen once a year. It's a great opportunity to get a designer dress at rock-bottom prices. You can also look on eBay, Craigslist and other websites for deals on used wedding dresses. Remember that cleaning the delicate fabric of a wedding dress may cost up to $250, so avoid the cheap dress with the filthy hem. And many towns have a shop where you can rent a wedding dress, saving you hundreds and hundreds of dollars.
(Found my dream dress=$2700 decided it was to expensive and found a new dream dress=$599)

3. Change the Day of the Week
Have your wedding on a weeknight or a Sunday. There is less demand for these dates, so vendors will often be willing to give you a better rate.
(not practical for us or our large guest list)

4. Save Money on Church DecorationsFor religious weddings, consider having your wedding near a major holiday. The church will already be decorated, saving you lots of money on flowers. On other days, look for simplicity. A candlelit ceremony can be romantic, gorgeous, and inexpensive.
(Not getting married in a church)

5. Get Crafty - Do It YourselfThrow a "pitch-in party," where you ask your friends to be a special part of your wedding by helping you assemble favors and make invitations, centerpieces, and other homemade inexpensive touches. Be sure to put out delicious snacks and have inspiring tunes on the stereo, so that your friends feel like they're at a party, not just part of an assembly line.
(We have taken advantage of this..ex. Save the dates)

6. Look for Cheap Wedding Food and Drink
Be honest with your caterer about your need to save money. Ask them which are the least expensive entrees and whether a buffet is cheaper than a seated dinner. See if they'll let you provide your own liquor, or if serving only wine and beer will be cheaper than a full bar. Also consider only having the bar open during your cocktail hour, then serving an inexpensive wine with dinner. Especially if you and your fiance don't drink, consider having a dry wedding.
(We were honest with our caterer and told them what we could spend and what we wanted we also got them to throw in our linens, tables, and chairs into that budget)

Hours of FUN!!!!

2009-03-10T13:15:00.000-07:00

orange - by Daniimagens on Polyvore.com
I just stumbled across this website called polyvore. I am still getting the gist of it, but basically it is an ENDLESS site of inspiration boards. AND you can create your own to. So much more to come but i found this one.....Hello our wedding colors....Orange & Fuchsia.

Graffiti Canvas

2009-03-08T18:35:00.000-07:00

Steve and I are constantly trying to come up with new and innovative ideas to incorporate into our wedding to make it unique. The theme for our wedding is urban/modern/glam. Super eclectic and we are still trying to bring all of this together, with the help of our wedding planner.
We were in New York City yesterday and as we were standing on a corner i noticed a mail box with tons of graffiti on it and i had a thought....
What if we had a huge canvas at the wedding where our guests could "tag" We could have spray paint in colors that match our home or wedding colors and it would be a keepsake for us to hang in our home. Obviously we would have a tarp behind it to protect the space and plastic gloves so guests wouldn't get messy.
But all in all we never heard of it before at a wedding and thought it tied in with our theme and our apt. decor as well. Any thoughts?

Photography Love

2009-03-04T13:13:00.000-08:00

Another photographer to add to my wedding inspiration. Jeff Newsom. His blog has some SERIOUSLY AMAZING shots and his website is super fun as well. You must check him out. (first saw him on RocknRollBride)

I am going to be an Aunt!!!! (non wedding related kinda)

2009-03-02T20:17:00.000-08:00

Ocean City, Maryland 2007
Me & my brother Mike

Steve and my bro Mike bonding

My brother and me drunk @ the shore. Haha

Steve, My Brother Mike, & Me 2006

So i found out yesterday that the oldest of my two brothers is going to have a baby. Hence making me an Aunt. YAHHHH!!!!!! He is younger (21) than me (24) and naturally the older sibling in me is a little worried but extremely excited. His girlfriend is super wonderful and they are completely inlove. I am so happy to finally be an auntie and i know he will make a great father.

Ps. On a wedding related note, his girlfriend is due right around our wedding date. Could you imagine if she goes into labor during the wedding. Both my brothers will be walking me down the aisle and i cant even think about us all walking down the asile and all of a sudden Kendra goes into labor. AHHHHHH!!! Crazy. But it would be sooo much fun to get to spend some more time in my wedding gown...like a hospital visit after the days adventure. Hahahha only i would think of this. LOL

Blog Award...THANK YOU!!!!!!

2009-03-02T10:43:00.001-08:00

I just want to say thank you very very very much for my blog awards
from

Erica @ Rick&Erica Erica's blog is about her upcoming wedding to Rick. Her and i email weekly and post on each others blogs constantly. We really became blogger friends right away. She is the sweetest girl, you must read her blog.
and
Dawn @ The Alternative Bride Her blog is sooo much fun. She blogs about weddings as well as everything else super fun, like fashion. It is always full of inspirational pictures which i love! (Hence Visual Learner) You have to check her out!

Please check out these ladies blogs. They are fabulous!!
Ladies Thank you again for reading my blog. My blog and myself appreciate it A LOT!!!

Now i guess i have to give my award out as well.......

"These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers. Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award.”

Sarah @ Wedding 2010. Her witty charm and take on her own wedding as well as other wedding inspiration will have you hooked. She is hilarious!

Kat @ Rock 'n Roll Bride. Her website used to be a blog. She features very unique real weddings and i seriously check her page 10000 times a day. Its a must read!

Mara @ The Wedding Cabaret. She is a seriously talented blogger. Her page is FILLED with inspiration. Her blog features everything you can imagine under the sun about weddings and then some. She also is such an avid blogger that she even takes time out of her blog to post on mine.

AShley @ Polka Dots and Paisley. Ashley was one of the first bloggers i started to talk to in the wedding world. She was so helpful when i was blogspot illiterate and needed assistance. She is now a wife and blogs about her daily adventures.

Hannah @ That Engaged Girl She is the nicest girl. Her blog is all about planning her upcoming wedding on a budget. I love it, it is hilarious and she always has the sweetest things to say on my blog. She has also already received this award so that should tell you how great she is.

Jessica @ An Atlanta Bride. Her blog is stunning. Her ideas for her wedding as so timeless and beautiful. It has been amazing seeing all her post come together into one day. Her own wedding choices are sure to be an inspiration to all bride to bes.

Kiana @ Dot the i wedding. Kiana has been so sweet posting comments on my blog. Her blog helps you get a real personal feel for her style and her upcoming "wedding in Atlanta on a budget" With that being said there is nothing that says budget about her planning. Her ideas are simple, sleek, and gorgeous!!!!

Wedding Poop. Her blog is so informative. I love her urban style for her upcoming wedding. She is a photographer/graphic designer from Hershey Pa and i get excited to read her new posts every time i click on her page. She is actually getting married next week. GOOD LUCK and CONGRATS!!!

A very sparkler exit...

2009-03-02T07:03:00.000-08:00

I thought a lot about our exit as man and wife from our wedding.
Some of my random thoughts...

#1 It will still be light out when we leave the ceremony and since the ceremony & reception will be at the same location we will have to have the guests walk outside, strange and takes up to much time. So it will have to take place when we leave the reception.

#2 Traditional bird seed. HATE the idea of having bird seed in places bird seed should never go.

#3 Bubbles, does this actually work? I want our guests to not waste their lung power on trying to blow bubbles but rather on cheering us on and enjoying the open bar.

#4 Flower Petals-costly and to much DIY to package them

#5 Doves/Butterflies-very costly and kinda sad actually i think

#6 Streamers/Flags-To much DIY for me

and the winner is.....SPARKLERS.....Super timesless and fun. We have decided to do this when we leave the recetion at midnight. (yes our reception goes till midnight) What are some of your exit ideas?

Custom Etsy Purchase

2009-02-27T23:58:00.000-08:00

Philadelphia is a big part of Steve and I's relationship. We have had many many dates there and continue to travel there as often as possible. We live about an hour from the city. We are actually going there tomorrow.
Anyway we knew we wanted to use the Love Park logo (pictured in my banner) in our wedding somehow. I found Kim on the Etsy website through another wedding blog who purchased from her and contacted her about making a custom stamp for us to use on misallaneious things for the wedding. Invitations, place cards, etc. She was wonderful and had a sketch for me the same day. Then the stamp was ready in just a few days for an amazing price.
Her work speaks for itself. She has an amazing gift and her stamps are some the most creative and fun things i have ever seen.
She also has a blog you should follow her blog as well.
Please check out her page on Etsy for all her amazing stamps for sale.

My Something Blue....

2009-02-25T23:06:00.001-08:00

"Something Old" -???
"Something New" -Wedding dress
"Something Borrowed" -???
"Something Blue" -rhinestones on bottom of shoes
I first saw this idea a few years ago and i knew it was perfect for me. As blue is not one of wedding colors so i had no idea how i was going to incorporate it into my attire. This fabulous idea can be done super easily. Just buy some blue rhinestones from your local craft store and go to town. I think will put our initials on one shoe "TL & SH" and the date on the other "9.19.09"

Calling all fabulous shoes....

2009-02-25T23:02:00.000-08:00

Shoes are a love of mine. I am still in search of some fabulous peep toe orange/pink/grey heels. (no luck) Here are some amazing pictures of stunning brides who broke with tradition and wore colored shoes!!!!

Grow old with me...

2009-02-25T09:24:00.000-08:00

This is serious post about my Mr. Hegeman. As the stresses of wedding planning, everyday life, the recession, and all other obstacles of a relationship, i just wanted to take the time to post a bit about my fiance.
We met at a mutual friends party in 2004. I had just moved home from college and wanted nothing to do with the relationship scene. I was still in my single party mode. He pursued me more than a limited pair of Nike sneakers. (Haha if you know Steven, that is his obsession) At first i was not interested at all, but one evening we stayed up until 5am talking about our lives and in that moment i knew he was something special. He knew more about me than i knew about him and was shocked at all the life experiences i had already been through at such a young age.
I had a hard childhood, my single mother passed away when i was 13, and i moved from from family members homes, to friends homes, to college. My mother never found true love and was never married and i had it in my mind that, the great joy of getting married would never be in the cards for me.
Now almost 5 years after that first meeting with Mr. Hegeman, we are still complete opposites, disagree on a lot and never see eye to eye on certain situations, at the end of the day he is the one person in my life who has somewhat filled a void in my heart that will never be truly filled because of the loss of my mother and disconnect from my biological family.
He truly is the love of my life. I can only hope that we both continue to put the work and communication needed to create a lasting relationship and in turn grow old together.
Here is a survey i got from Amy's blog.

Steve & Tina
♥ What are your middle names?
Marie& Michael
♥ How long have you been together?
Almost 5 years, engaged 1 year
♥ How long did you know each other before you started dating?
We were friends and hung out for about 3 months before we made if official
♥ Who asked who out?
He as me!! haha
♥ Whose siblings do you see the most?
We see my brothers more
♥ Do you have any children?
No. But we are excited to start a family someday
♥ What about pets?
YES!! Our pets our the loves of our life. A long haired chihuahua named Smokey, and his actual daughter a Chihuahua/jack russell mix named Moo
♥ Which situation is the hardest on you as a couple?
Seeing the others point of view
♥ Did you go to the same school?
We did but Steve is 7 years older than me
♥ Are you from the same home town?
Oh yes a shit hole called Reading, Pennsylvania. The longer we are here the more we like it but we would love to move to Philadelphia or near the Jersey Shore.
♥ Who is the smartest?
Steve is very intellectual. I am more street smart, he is more book smart.
♥ Who is the most sensitive?
I am for sure. He has his moments though
♥ Where do you eat out most as a couple?
I enjoy cooking, so our at home meals have been getting better. But we love sushi, Japanese cuisine.
♥ Who has the craziest ex?
Steve for sure!
♥ Who has the worst temper?
Steve. Unless im provoked. Haha
♥ Who does the cooking?
I do. Im getting quite good at it actually.
♥ Who is more social?
That depends on our moods. Sometimes he is a social butterfly and sometimes he doesnt want to be bothered. I am the same way.
♥ Who is the neat-freak?
I totally am. Steve thinks its funny that when there is clutter i totally like freak out, cant feel relaxed and have to start making piles to organize it.
♥ Who is the more stubborn?
Steve is!
♥ Who hogs the bed?
Well we spent a good two years of our relationship in a twin bed. How we managed im not sure since steve is 6'2. But he hogs more.
♥ Who wakes up earlier?
I do. Although we both love love love to sleep in. We are night owls.
♥ Where was your first date?
This little local restaurant in our town called "Maxis" for our 1 month official anniversary.
♥ Who has the bigger family?
I do. Since i have friends and friends family who i consider family.
♥ Do you get flowers often?
Nope. I think twice maybe. :o( haha
♥ How do you spend the holidays?
We usually bounce between his family and mine.
♥ Who is more jealous?
I am. I have to admit it. Sometimes him but mostly me.
♥ How long did it take to get serious?
Long story kinda. 3 months and one night he was out with his friends and his ex gf made a ploy for him and he totally rejected her and was by my side ever since.
♥ Who eats more?
Steve, he has a sweet tooth
♥ Who does/did the laundry?
i do mine, he does his. He has a special way his has to be done. Haha
♥ Who’s better with the computer?
I am better with certain applications, like blogging, but he is better with the technical aspect of computer.
♥ Who drives when you are together?
Steve does because he says i tailgate.

I would be in heaven....

2009-02-24T10:49:00.000-08:00

Now i know you aren't supposed to plan your own bridal shower or bachelorette party but if this could occur this is what i would do for myself, hint....hint...hint....to my LOVELY bridesmaids who don't read this blog as often as they should.

Get ready.....A SEX AND THE CITY THEME BRIDAL SHOWER!!!!!!
I do not know why i did not think is this before. I only came across it today while blogging. AHHHHH i would be in heaven if this happened for me. Obviously i am a Sex And The City super fan and I'm not going to be coy about it, i would rock anyone in the trivia game. I hope my bridesmaid love me enough to take the time and do this!!!

Here were some great ideas i found today about this theme party. Ideas people did at their showers......
* Everyone was encouraged to wear pink or black “Sex and the City” attire
* Quotes from the show were used on the invitations and around the party
* I made a CD of all of the French/Instrumental songs that were played in the last two episodes while Carrie was in Paris or the movie soundtrack
* Pink cosmopolitans and martinis
* Pink carnations which were Carrie Bradshaws favorite flower
* Manolo Blahnik Shoe Cake
* Trivia game to play
* Cookies shaped like bags and shoes as giveaways
* My favorite idea- Assign each invited guest a character in their invitation and suggest their gift be "like" that character?
Carrie gifts could be luxurious and frivolous...
Samantha gifts could be racy and sexy...
Miranda gifts could be practical but fun...
Charlotte gifts could be pretty and proper.
* Have everyone come in there favorite stilettos-have a stilettos contest-guest can model their shoes & have the bride choose the winner
* Make a game from name tags with any of the satc characters on each one. Then have every one go around and guess which girl from the show they are. Good icebreaker.

Flower Love

2009-02-24T10:07:00.003-08:00

Here are some of my favorite flowers. I havent met with our florist yet (I"m slacking) but i am hoping to use them all somehow.

Dahlias
The dahlia is the national flower of Mexico and this is also its birthplace. An old Aztec document states that the Aztecs used dahlias as a treatment for epilepsy. Only in the 19th century did the flower come to Europe where it was bred and cultivated into today's varieties.
Meanings: dignity, elegance
Bloom from mid summer all the way up to frost. Many times their displayed will become more spectacular as the weather cools. Dahlias produce a better display if they are properly deadheaded and pinched.

Hydrangeas
Gardens burst into life with these poufs in late summer and fall; in shades from pink to lavender to green, they look modern when massed in bouquets and large arrangements.
Meaning: devotion
Style * beach casual, glamorous, classic, romantic, modern
Season * year round
Size of Bloom * large, medium
Color * blue, pink, green, white
Cost * $$$ = expensive

Gerbera Daisies
One of the world's most popular cut flowers, and available in virtually every color imaginable, it looks fresh and casual when gathered in a simple vase.
Meaning: you are the sunshine of my life
Style * beach casual, bohemian, classic, modern
Color * red, yellow, pink, orange, white
Size of Bloom * large, medium
Cost * $ = inexpensive
Season * spring, summer

Roses
These are the classic long-stemmed roses that you see in the florist's shop every Valentine's Day. A perennial wedding choice, their petals can be plucked to carpet the ceremony aisle.
Meaning: love and passion
color * red, yellow, pink
Style * glamorous, classic, romantic
season * year round
Size of Bloom * medium
Cost * $$ = medium price

Carnations
Also called dianthus. Strong stem and long lasting flower.
Available year round in a rainbow of colors.
Some types, such as most purples, are very fragrant.

Real Wedding-Kim & Mike-Philadelphia

2009-02-23T08:24:00.000-08:00

As i was browsing OnceWed, i saw the most fabulous wedding gown for sale. As i opened the link, my jaw hit the floor. The gown as well as the bride were one of the most beautiful pictures i have ever seen. I emailed Kim to see if i could post some pictures from her wedding day. The elegance of this wedding can not be ignored. It is fabulous. Thank you Kim. (I will be adding all the yummy details from this wedding shortly.)

To view Kims dress for sale click here.

Thank You-Bridal Party

2009-02-23T07:50:00.000-08:00

Since we had already asked all of our bridal party to be apart of our special day, i decided to send thank you cards for accepting.

I found super cute cards at Walmart, and just added some glitter and ribbon to make the dresses on the cover our wedding colors.
The groomsman cards i just made with ribbon and card stock.
The photo collages inside each card were make on the walmart photo center website. All you have to do it upload photos to their site and you can make anything from mugs to blankets or just order prints. The collages were so cool, you could pick your back round color. They cost .9 cents for a 4x6 and .58 cents for a 5x7. Then you just pick them up at your local walmart store's photo center.
Above are a peak at some of the cards.

The insides reads....

In just a little while
Steve & I will be walking down the aisle,
And nothing brings me
More joy and pride than
To have you right there by my side.
Thank you for accepting to be a
BRIDESMAID

In just a little while
We will be walking down the aisle,
And nothing brings us
More joy and pride
Than to have you right there by our side.
Thank you for accepting to be a
GROOMSMAN

Esty Find-Garter

2009-02-22T18:59:00.001-08:00

www.etsy.com

From-GarterLady

If you are going to follow tradition and do the garter toss here are some really great etsy finds for a fun and fashionable take on usually tacky garters. I adore them and although the bouquet and garter toss are so cliche and obnoxious, Steve and I would like to honor the tradition.

Bridal Gown Inspiration

2009-02-17T10:21:00.000-08:00

Since i purchased my dress, i was inspired today to make a bridal board of accessories.

Wedding Gown-PURCHASED!

2009-02-16T15:41:00.000-08:00

Watters and Watters, Wtoo collection-Style Eva. Purchased it for an amazing $599. Now just have to get a lace bolero made and change the sash to bright orange. What do you think?
http://www.watters.com/product.php?coll=wtoobrides&showid=951

Valentines Day= Engagement Anniversary

2009-02-13T11:14:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day will now have a very special meaning to us. It was the day we got engaged, Feb. 14th 2008. Above our some pictures of my ring and the card he gave me to propose.

HOW IT HAPPENED

We knew we wanted to spend the rest of our lives together and at first there was no real proposal. To my surprise on Valentines Day, we had dinner reservations and naturally i was running late, trying to get ready. Our reservations were for 7:00 and @ 7:15 i was finally ready. I came into the living room of our apartment to Steve asking me if i wanted my valentines card. I was surprised since we decided not to exchange anything since we were going to the shore that weekend. (Steve is also missing the romantic gene so i had no idea) On the front of the card it read only the word "Love." When i opened it he got down on one knee and the inside read "Will you marry me?" I was shocked. My eyes teared up and i started to laugh in the moment. I told him to get up. I remember saying "shut up" over and over again. Not to him just in shock that he actually pulled a fast one on me. I then replied between teary eyes and laughter "Of course i will marry you. I love you." Needless to say we had a wonderful dinner and spent the weekend @ the jersey shore to celebrate.

To celebrate this year we will be going to a Hibachi restaurant, as we have every year since we have been together on Valentines Day, and spending the day in Philadelphia. Ending with a romantic evening at home with the gift i got Steve, a mini chocolate fondue kit. Ohhhlala!

I need your help!

2009-02-09T05:20:00.000-08:00

As i have posted before it has been a long battle for me to find the perfect wedding gown.
Well on Saturday i went to a bridal shop about an hour away, and in 15 minutes, i found "THE ONE!" They say you will just know when you put it on and I KNEW! After being at a few bridal shops and trying on many dresses i began to wonder if i would ever find it. I finally have.
THE PROBLEM......It is on the expensive side. So i am asking you to help me find it online either a picture of it to reference for another gown or for a cheaper price. I searched for hours yesterday with no luck. Of course the designers website it under construction.

*Designer- LaRichi Couture
*Style- Kayla

I will give you alittle description of it, maybe you know of a similiar dress.

*Sweetheart neckline
*Mermaid Cut
*Lace overlay over whole dress
*Random crystals in lace flowers
*Line of crystals from top of zipper in back to bottom of train
*Crystal beading that looks like a belt @ waist

Get out your Manolos Girls.........

2009-02-06T05:10:00.000-08:00

Apparently the sex and the city cast has officially signed on to do a sequel to the much anticipated Sex and The City Movie. Now don't get me wrong i do feel like they are milking it and the sequel will never be as good as the first movie and the movie wasn't as good as the series but being the SUPER FAN that i am, i would be lying if i said i wasn't TOTALLY STOKED!!!!!!!!!!!!

You can see the post on PerezHilton.com (if you don't know about this site you MUST add it to your daily blog read!) I'm a sucker for celebrity gossip and I'm not ashamed to admit it. Isn't that the first step to recovery!?

http://perezhilton.com/2009-02-05-its-official-sex-and-the-city-sequel-is-happening

Cool Cam Guest Book

2009-02-05T17:19:00.000-08:00

Today my boss found and borrowed frim his work (haha) an old school Polaroid Cool Camera Instant Camera for me to use with our guest book. To take pictures of our guests and have them write alittle message for us. Words can not describe how excited i am right now!!!!!!!!!
Ps did i mention that they do not make instant cameras or the film for them anymore as of December '08. And i have one..... WAHOOooooo!!!!!

Inner Bride

2009-02-05T06:19:00.000-08:00

www.theknot.com

Design your inner bride.

I Love Hair

2009-02-04T14:05:00.000-08:00

I am currently in my home stretch of cosmetology school. I am hoping to become a sales rep for a hair care or cosmetic company. I always knew figuring out a hairstyle for my big day would be a challange.
At first i thought i wanted to wear it down with loose waves but as i think more about it, by midnight im sure it wont look very stylish and nice anymore. So i am now thinking about a loose funky updo. I like some of these ideas....

I adore this vintage style with loose finger waves framing her face.

My favorite actress Drew Barrymore rockin a messy boufant with a swoop bang. This would look fabulous with the birdcage veil I want to wear.

The idea of a side pony is so much fun!

Wedding Shoe Options....

2009-02-03T10:44:00.000-08:00

www.overstock.com

Luichiny Wicked Orange $54.35

AK Anne Klein Foxie Pink/Orange Patent $47.88

www.ebay.com

$18.99 on ebay!!

If anyone else is looking for orange peep toe heels you may be having trouble finding a cute pair, as I am. These are just a few options i have found. I am hoping that with the summer coming there will be more. Since our colors are fuchsia, orange and charcoal grey i would love to find a pair with all three colors (wishful thinking) but i would also be open to any of those colors.
Ps Did i mention that i need a high heel atleast for the ceremony and first dance. I am 5'2 and my fiance is 6'2 HAHAHAHHA

A must read blog-website....

2009-01-30T09:30:00.001-08:00

I stumbled upon Rock & Roll Bride blog awhile back, it has now become a website. She features original real weddings. They are AMAZING and i adore this site so much!!! It truly brings me joy daily to check and see what new posts she has up.
You must visit www.rocknrollbride.com

Above are just a few of the weddings featured....

Love Love Love

2009-01-27T07:26:00.000-08:00

I found this bride awhile ago and i cant remember where but her dress and bolero is pretty much exactly the style i want for my wedding......
Ps Still no dress yet! :o(

Table Decor

2009-01-27T07:16:00.000-08:00

Yesterday i had off from work and i decided to take a trip to ikea. (One of my favorite stores) I was super excited when i found some stuff to go onto our tables for the wedding at some seriously low prices....

Pink/Black Tea Light holders...$2.99 for a pack of 5
Pink Funky shaped vases......NO LIE I PAID .69 CENTS a vase!!!!

I love sale shopping! I'm quite good at it actually....

Sneak Peak "Save The Date"

2009-01-24T08:38:00.000-08:00

This is just a peek at our save the dates, not the final copy. i also want to post about all the time we put into them. So enjoy for now...
IF YOU CLICK ON THE PICTURE, I'M PRETTY SURE YOU CAN SEE IT ENLARGED.

Photography

2009-01-23T10:53:00.000-08:00

These were some of our inspiration for wedding photos....

I am most excited to post about our meeting with our photographer.
We are using the studio my cousin works for. Since she is in the wedding i wanted her to enjoy the night, not have to be working, i was a little worried about someone capturing the vision we wanted to create.

At the meeting i mentioned that we did not want anything traditional. Most of the weddings in our are, actually prolly all of the weddings in our area have their wedding photos taken at the Reading Museum (garden & creek setting)
Well GUESS WHAT we wanted nothing to do with that! Haha I mentioned that i really love the contrast between what people see as beautiful verses what people see as not appealing.
I told him i would like to find a run down building and a graffiti wall. First came shock. Then they seemed overjoyed to shoot a wedding so much different than the norm.

So we chose 3 definite locations to shoot at.
*The old Reading Railroad Station
*Bandshell in City Park
*Murals of Reading ( Obviously not in front of the ones with people on them)
*Graffiti Walls

Save The Dates

2009-01-23T10:41:00.000-08:00

We took our "Save The Date" pictures yesterday!!!!! I can not wait to post them and to share all the time and artwork i put into them. My cousin who is a photographer was amazing and helped us create the feel and look to make them fit into our art deco/urban theme wedding. It took me about 2 days to do all the art work.... So coming soon....Tina & Steve's 9.19.09 Wedding Save the dates!

Proposal Story <3

2009-01-22T20:58:00.000-08:00

I was thinking about it the other day and i realized i never told our engagement story....
You can also check out our wedding website...
www.theknot.com/ourwedding/ChristinaLountzis&StevenHegeman

HOW IT HAPPENED

We knew we wanted to spend the rest of our lives together and at first there was no real proposal. To my surprise on Valentines Day, we had dinner reservations and naturally i was running late, trying to get ready. Our reservations were for 7:00 and @ 7:15 i was finally ready. I came into the living room of our apartment to Steve asking me if i wanted my valentines card. I was surprised since we decided not to exchange anything since we were going to the shore that weekend. (Steve is also missing the romantic gene so i had no idea) On the front of the card it read only the word "Love." When i opened it he got down on one knee and the inside read "Will you marry me?" I was shocked. My eyes teared up and i started to laugh in the moment. I told him to get up. I remember saying "shut up" over and over again. Not to him just in shock that he actually pulled a fast one on me. I then replied between teary eyes and laughter "Of course i will marry you. I love you." Needless to say we had a wonderful dinner and spent the weekend @ the jersey shore to celebrate.

* Above are some pictures of my ring, Which do it no justice and a pic from our trip to the shore to celebrate that weekend.

Golden Globe Dress Inspirtation....

2009-01-13T10:35:00.000-08:00

My two favorites from the night were both by Reem Acra....Rumor Willis and Olivia Wilde

Wedding Tv Shows.....

2008-12-26T14:19:00.001-08:00

I thought i would just put out there all the wedding shows i am addicted to....

TLC Network

""Say Yes To The Dress""
Say Yes to the Dress reveals the inner workings of the world’s premier bridal salon, Kleinfeld Bridal. Part fashion show, part bridal story, part family therapy, we uncover the hurdles every staff member faces to make each bride completely satisfied on what may be the single most important day of their lives.
Watch as a team of specialists guide brides through the process of selecting, fitting, altering and delivering each flawless dress in time for the perfect day. It’s not a stress-free endeavor, but somehow by the final fitting Kleinfeld pulls all of the details together. Part docusoap surrounding the shop, but more the fascinating tales of the women who are in search of the most important dress they’ll ever buy.

Style Network

""Whose Wedding Is It Anyway?""
The bride may get all the gifts, but the planner's the real star of the show.
This show follows real brides to be and their wedding planner as they plan their special days.

""I Propose""
Come along for the wild ride as real men prepare to pop the question.

""Married Away""
For a destination wedding, the where is almost as important as the who!

WE Tv

""Amazing Wedding Cakes""
Get ready to enter the world of high-end cake making, from larger-than-life designs to the over-the-top personalities who create them. This new half-hour series takes you behind the scenes of some seriously high-stakes cakes.

""Rich Bride, Poor Bride""
When it comes to weddings, everybody wants it to be the perfect day... BUT unless you have access to unlimited funds, it's "I DO" but at what cost? Whether a princess or a pauper, each episode of this series looks at how a bride, no matter what size her budget is, struggles through the planning of her wedding.

""My Fair Wedding""
Our all-new original series, My Fair Wedding, brings in a dream team, led by celebrity party planner David Tutera, on behalf of beleaguered friends and family members, to transform what could be a disaster wedding into a platinum style affair.

""Platinum Weddings""
Imagine a wedding day in which no detail is too miniscule, no wish is too extravagant and no request is unattainable. It’s a dream come true for any bride-to-be. Join WE tv for all-new episodes of Platinum Weddings—the ultimate wedding show that captures the drama and decadence of wedding planning on an extraordinary budget!

""Bridezillas""
It’s an all-new season of Bridezillas and this time the family fights back! Be sure to tune in to meet the new season of brides and see how family can turn blushing brides into Bridezillas!

""Wedding Central""
Go inside the magic of weddings! WE tv takes you behind the scenes for an insider look at the amazing, the funny, the unpredictable, and the touching side of planning a big day. From the people who make it their business to create, plan and execute some of the most exciting trends, to the couples who want to make their big day an unforgettable celebration.

I should be working out but being a couch potato is so much more fun when these shows are on.....

Survival Kits....

2008-12-17T07:48:00.000-08:00

Perfect bridesmaid gifts...

Bridesmaids are there to support the bride in every way. But who helps them when they face a minor emergency? Enter The Bridesmaid's Survival Kit by Ms. & Mrs. This compact collection of 18 essentials comes in a discreet, silver-tone mesh case so that ladies can keep it within reach all wedding day long. The matching gift tag reads: "Thanks for being my bridesmaid. I couldn't have survived without you."

Contents: Folding Hair Brush with Mirror, Hair Spray, Clear Elastics, Bobby Pins, Earring Backs, Emery Board, Clear Nail Polish, Mending Kit, Double-Sided Tape, Stain Remover, Static Remover, Breath Freshener, Deodorant Wipe, Tampon, Adhesive Bandages, Pain Reliever, Handkerchief, Dancing Socks
Features:
• Essential kit for Bridesmaids
• Includes 18 must-have items for the "big day"
• Comes in a discreet, silver-tone mesh case
• Compact enough to tote around for the entire wedding day

Bridesmaid dress love....

2008-12-17T07:32:00.000-08:00

If you have read my past postings you know we are having some trouble finding the perfect dresses for my girls. Here are some pictures of weddings that capture the feel i want for my girls. Different dresses loves it. Simple and modern.

Puppy Love <3

2008-12-17T07:11:00.000-08:00

On Saturday i not only met with a fabulous wedding planner, Judy, from Philadelphia which i will blog about later (check her site) http://www.jpeventdesign.com/
but we also got the ok to have our dogs be apart of our ceremony. "Smokey" is a long haired chihuahua. "Moo" is a chihuahua/jack russell mix and also smokey's biological daughter. We love our dogs what can i say.

Neglecting wedding blog.....new obsession...

2008-12-04T08:42:00.000-08:00

I have been totally slacking and neglecting my wedding planning/blogging because.....well i am officially hooked and obsessed with "Twilight."
The movie was amazing and i am now a book worm and about to start the third book in the four book series....all in a week flat.
For a movie biff like me seeing the movie before reading the first book was just what i needed....To visualize the characters i fell in love with on screen while getting more information in the book. I advise you to do it this way....that way it wont be a let down when you read the book first and get your own ideas of what the characters should look like....

I thought the hype about twilight was ridiculous but now i understand...i should have know i would be hooked. I always had a love for horror flicks as a kid.

PS....If you have not seen the movie or read the books.....you need to. You will not be able to put the books down and the movie brings the characters and story to life amazingly.
Honestly even if the whole vampire scenario isn't your thing....i guarantee it will keep you entertained because once you break the story down you can relate it to real life scenarios. Stephanie Meyer does an amazing job of writing in the series, it is a quick easily understood read, while keeping you hooked.

Actually i don't know why i am still on here....Back to reading. LOL!

Pss...Robert Pattinson is the perfect Edward Cullen and insanely hot.

Just adorable

2008-11-20T10:56:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to post this picture of our ring bears and flower girl that i had taken last year.
They are going to be sooo cute can you just imagine it.
Brandon-10
Carlee-9
Davey-6
Kaiden-3

Kids say the craziest things.....

2008-11-20T10:43:00.000-08:00

I work as a nanny and the 4 kids i nanny for will be our ring bears and flower girl. As i through myself into wedding planning my flower girl, Carlee, loves to look at dresses and figure out what she will be wearing.......Our conversation one day:

Me: Carlee come look at some of these dresses for the wedding
Carlee: I love these dresses. What are your colors again?
Me: Fuchsia, Orange, and charcoal gray. I want you to wear an orange dress.
Carlee: Well Tina, Orange just isn't my color. I don't really look good in orange.

She is 9 by the way. IT WAS HILARIOUS!!!

Groom style....a good idea for steven

2008-11-20T10:14:00.000-08:00

So if you know my fiance you know he ALWAYS wears a hat. Has a sneaker obsession and has sneakers and a hat to match any outfit.
We had already decided that he and his groomsman will be wearing nike dunks in all charcol grey to match their suits for the wedding....which will be our groomsman gifts to them. You can customize colors on www.nikeid.com I am sure you are like what the hell if you are reading this... but its just a different twist on the grooms wearing converse.
But we were stil stumped on the idea of steve wearing at hat for the reception. Well not only is a fedora soooo cute but it totally would go with our urban style for the wedding. lol

Dream family... (thanks sarah)

2008-11-17T08:39:00.000-08:00

First born a baby boy & then twins a boy and a girl.....

Sadie Maryanthe Hegeman (twin one)

Chase John Hegeman (twin two)

First Born....
Boston Robert Hegeman

On the volkswagon website you can see what your future children will look like. I am in heaven. (thank you sarah for posting it first so i could steal it)
If you know me at all, you know how much i adore children. I am a nanny and before that was a kindergarten teacher. I cant wait to start a family of my own. Hopefully i will have twins. (My mother was a fraternal twin and it is genetic and supposedly skips a generation!!! WAHOOOOO)
http://www.vw.com/vwhype/babymaker/en/us/