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Saturday, March 31, 2007

Wedding Wire



I came across this site a few weeks ago, and I have to say that I really find it useful.

It's a web based wedding planning and information site. What's great about it is the vendor search and compare feature. Search over 10,000 vendors and you have bride/groom submitted reviews at your fingertips, location maps, and a detailed description of services offered.

The site is SO much more than this. It is just such a wonderful planning tool. Definitely check this one out.

As read on The WeddingChannel...

Diamond White vs. White aka Depths of insanity

I'm not sure how to begin this post. Me? At a loss for words? I suppose I will start off by saying, as a future OCD bride to be, with VERY particular tastes and inclinations towards, ummm, perfection, that I understand how important it is for things to go right.

That being said, there must be a point where we sit back, laugh at ourselves a little, and shrug off some of the eventual disappointments that are bound to accrue throughout the wedding planning process. I know I have already.

I stumbled the other day on a bride in distress, because her dress has been confirmed as "diamond white," as opposed to "white" by her seamstress. Now let's get one thing clear: It still is white. It's not cream, or ivory, or beige, or even yellow. It's white. Just not white white. Believe me, I understand that color is important (I've had countless conversations with my dress maker about the virtues of platinum). But, to what extent? Is this the Empresse's new clothes? If you did not notice prior to taking the dress to the seamstress, you've had the dress for months, and it's only when the seamstress points it out to you that your dress may not be spanking white white, then what difference does it make?

According to this bride, all the difference. She's been severely depressed, hasn't been eating, sleeping - basically enjoying life, because her dress is white, instead of white, white. And the cause? For her entire life, she's been dreaming of marrying her prince in a white dress. I'm sorry, but UUGH! I can understand getting lost in the details. It happens. It's a big event, an extremely important event, in fact. But you recognize your tendencies and insanity, and take a step back when needed, or more importantly you realize that for some battles you will have to raise and wave your white flag. But when you get mired in details that consume you to the point of frivolity, it's time to take a step back and evaluate things.

What is really going on here? You can be sure that no one is going to tap you on the shoulder, and point out that your dress is diamond white, nor will they be whispering it to themselves. Why? Because no one, save those imbued with Superman's keen eye will notice! Nobody cares, or in my humble opinion should care to this extent about white, white white, white white white, unless that whiteness is going to save their life, or perhaps it's a whiteness contest and the end result is millionaredom. Otherwise, the stress and worry and lack of sleep and lack of good things to eat should be focused on your groom, your lifetime of marriage - which will have MUCH, much much, and much, much, much bigger trials than how white you can get your wedding dress on your wedding day.

I don't want this to sound preachy, and I know it does, but hey, I do want to make the point. There has to be balance, and when the pendulum swings towards the ridiculous, there needs to be commentary like this so we don't accept that this behavior is normal. Such as my eighty cents here.

Friday, March 23, 2007

Favorite Favors

As mentioned in my last post, when I chose the location for our August wedding, I realized that pastels and delicate flowers would no longer do. To look at the room is to imagine nothing but white calla lilies – at least from how I see it. So you can imagine how thrilled I was when I discovered these items on various favor websites! They could not be more perfect and I could not be more excited!

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Calla Lily Candles, available from BlueRainbow Designs for as low as $1.13!!

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Calla Lily Guest Book, available from the Wedding Outlet for $39.95

and last but not least...
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Calla Lily Favor Pails available from American Bridal, 12 for $23.22


I highly recommend any of these sites to find unique favors and gifts. I have certainly found what I was looking for and then some. Next is getting an invitation that coordinates with this theme...

I've contacted a custom invitation designer who was highly recommended: Laurel & Co. and am anxiously awaiting to see what she designs!

Who knew wedding planning could be this much fun?!

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Thursday, March 22, 2007

As read in the New York Times

The fiance and I love to read the wedding announcements section of the New York Times every week. Our weekly, 'plebian roots examines potential high society pedigree.'

I thought I'd share this week's article entitled, entitled, Books Strew the Path to the Altar. By ABBY ELLIN. The article referred to the arrestingly entitled, “Wedding Etiquette Hell: The Bride’s Bible to Avoiding Everlasting Damnation” by Jeanne Hamilton.

Of course, the title resonated with me, as I have frequently contemplated whether my propensity to flount many a wedding ettiquette "must," will lead me to 'everlasting damnation.' Hence, the horror of no flower girl - "But who will drop the flower petals?" was the response to my declaration that there would be no flower girl at my wedding. I responded, "no one". And was met was a slightly quizzical, slightly disapproving look, as I wondered, but did not state, 'Is there a condition in my marriage license that states there must be petals (roses, no less) for me to walk on, as I come to join my intended at the altar?' Apparently, potential everlasting damnation.

Another horror, was the obvious lack of pink and pastel and bright festive colors in my wedding to be. I wanted something muted, something sleek, I chose chocolate brown, platinum with the tiniest twinge, at times non-existant twinge of bourdeaux red thrown in at odd places for posterity. I was met with many, many, MANY concerns regarding my choice of color, to the extent that a potential event coordinator tried unsuccessfully to convince me that I am having a summer wedding and MUST use summer colors. He was actually very adamant and disapproving - I have to admit I was a little taken aback. But, I digress.... Now forgive me for my ignorance, but what in the heck are summer colors? And more importantly, am I really banned to everlasting damnation if I decide I'd rather have platinum than pink on my reception tables?

Tuesday, March 20, 2007

Bag, Borrow, Steal!


All I have to say is OMIGOSH!

Now my one dream among the thousand others I have is to wear brilliant, gorgeous chandelier earrings, long and dangly, and lush. I, of course do not have a lush budget, so I've been trying to rack my brain as to how to convince some kind hearted jeweler to let me "borrow" some jewelry - yes, I know this only happens in the movies, or from time to time on "Whose Wedding is it Anyway?" But, I can dream.....

Well, apparently I don't have to anymore! There is a FABUUUULOUS website called Bag, Borrow, or Steal where you can rent gorgeous designer items from bags to jewelry to belts.

I am SOOOO excited!

Blueprint for Style

Button Rings!

Blueprint for Style Network featured a mini DIY session on making rings from buttons. Alright, I KNOW this sounds kinda cheesy - but think of some of the great, ornate buttions that you've seen and what wondrous pieces you could make.

This is such a fun project for people interested in unusual, orginal, large jewelry. Like me. I can't wait to try this!

Sunday, March 18, 2007

Crate & Barrel Free Book

50 things you wish someone had told you before you registered™ is being offerred by Crate & Barrel for FREE!

Just go to the site and Order your free copy online. You may also request it in stores, or call 800-967-6696.

Saturday, March 17, 2007

A Change in Plans?

M and I had always planned on having a formal reception. In the one year and three months since we got engaged, I pictured nothing but peonies and sweetpeas, chairs covered in white with pink sashes, and all the typical wedding details. But when M and I first walked into Pinzimini, our favorite little restaurant in the Westin in Ballston, we started second-thinking our plans. Immediately, I wanted to know whether they hosted wedding receptions. Unfortunately, back then, there was no one to answer my questions and wedding planning took a back seat to other things such as the recent tragedy in my family.

Unbeknownst to my family, Michael had already taken vows in a Christian ceremony in Turks & Caicos (TCI), which I plan to post on soon, as I have some great tips on the island and resources for anyone planning a destination wedding. Nevertheless, we still wanted to celebrate our legal union with family and friends and have a “traditional” wedding. I am Italian-American. Needless to say, my family would KILL me if we didn’t have a formal ceremony and celebration. Although I’m sure our 4 days in TCI could not compare to anything, I know that the little girl in me would not be satisfied until I got to walk down the aisle wearing the white gown and veil I’d dreamed of all my life in front of the people who’ve meant the most to me all my life.

In any case, my thoughts of big floral arrangements and quaint ballrooms faded when we first set eyes on Pinzimini. It was more “us” than anyplace we’d ever dined at. It is an Italian steakhouse drenched in candlelight and bears no resemblance to any tired ballroom we’d been considering. This is not to say all ballrooms are tired. We are only having about 50-60 guests and so our options were very limited. Pinzimini holds about 120 people (from what their website says) and reminds me of the Italian restaurants I grew up eating in all my life in NY, only this is modern and edgy and PERFECT for my purposes. If you don’t believe me, take a look and bear in mind that the picture does it no justice.

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So you can imagine how thrilled I was when I heard back from the events manager at Pinzimini and learned that we could indeed have our receptions there on August 11, the one year anniversary of our TCI ceremony.

Nothing is set in stone yet but we are working with the staff to find something within our meager budget. The only problem is that this throws a monkey wrench into all the plans I’d solidified in my mind in the time leading up to this. I cannot picture my Marissa lace princess cut gown with the (modified) sweet heart neckline coordinating with this room. Fortunately, I haven’t purchased it but I’ve been visiting it since last January and haven’t found anything that fit me as well since.

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When I look at this room I picture something edgy and modern. I don’t see peonies. I see calla lilies.

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Friday, March 16, 2007

As read on The Knot...

Back when I was in NY, I used to read this blog entitled something to the effect of "As heard in NY" where people would post mostly comical, and often outrageous statements, conversations, or sayings overheard while they were out and about mingling with the rest of society.

I thought it might be kinda fun to do a wedding related "As heard on wherever I happen to be reading or being" at that moment in particular. Because as I've discovered people say the craziest things - especially where weddings are involved. And they are always most often a great source of amusement. ;)

Today's statement: An informational factoid. We're supplying our own alcohol at our wedding reception. Apparently you can arrange with certain liquor stores to supply your alcohol, where they will deliver whatever is needed, AND pick up whatever is left over at the end of the night. What a great service. I am definitely going to look into this!

Design Sponge

One of my favorite sites of the moment is called Design Sponge. And the reason I am so enamored is because they have a feature all about DIY weddingery.

It's absolutely fabulous. From DIY flower arrangements to invitations to decor design. There is a wealth of creative information on this site. And I tune in religiously to see what's new and if I can discover new inspiration elements for my own centerpieces.

Awww - Very first RSVP

How surprised was I to receive an RSVP e-mail in my inbox last night?

The Save the Date buzz is afloat, and people keep e-mailing and calling in response to them. But, a dear friend actually went to our website and RSVP'd on the online RSVP page we provided (a great way to receive instantaneous RSVPs)!

I was so touched. Not only from their words of love and encouragement, but because it was the first. I just sat staring at the screen, in a state of gentle wonder. Realizing that I was about to marry my greatest buddy in a short wink. I've been on this stupendous emotional high ever since.

I can't wait for the rest of em to start rolling in!

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Welcome Nunzia

My heart goes out to all that you've had to deal with. May you rely on the strength that the adversity has undoubtedly brought to your life.

I am also an August bride, so if you need any resources or help - just ask away!

Looking forward to blogging with you!

Tuesday, March 13, 2007

Missing NearlyWed Returns

It's been some time since my last post, which was very long ago. I apologize for my absence. Though M and I had been planning on a May 19 wedding out here in NOVA surrounded by family and friends, tragedy struck over Christmas when my younger sister's 2 month old baby passed away (after 1 month in a coma). Obviously, we have put wedding planning on the backburner for some time, though I have still received my Knot updates frequently reminding me of the big day which is no longer on May 19.

Trying to finish up my 1st year of law school and get on track given all this has been difficult but I look forward to better times. My sister has encouraged M and me to go ahead and have our wedding this August so as we begin making arrangements, expect to hear back from me. I have some ideas of my own to share and look forward to being back!

In the meantime, I'll be following the other nearlyweds as they make their way slowly but surely to the aisle... Good luck gals!

Monday, March 12, 2007

Smilebox

Self dubbed a "creative messaging" service. Smilebox does not disappoint.

If you are interested in creating truly unique digital photo albums, invitations or announcements Smile box is a great choice. They have a multitude of different templates all flash based. In addition, you can add music, text, and even video all in a great customizable package. And as you know I am all about customization.

One of my current favorites is the TV box slideshow which features a 70s model TV; plays among other things, background music from "I dream of Jeannie," and uses flash 'tv snow' to alternate between photographs.

Saturday, March 10, 2007

Maryland Home and Garden Show

The Maryland Home and Garden Show is on this weekend.

Yes, I KNOW this is last minute, but I just found out myself in the strangest of ways. I DVR a whole bunch of shows and watch them when I get the chance. And I was just in the midst of an early morning rendez vous with "Whose Wedding is it anyway? (yes, I admit to a slight addiction)," when I noticed the commercial (as I was fast forwarding through it). Luckily, the airing of this show was relatively recent! Sometimes I don't get to shows till 3 weeks later. But I digress.

There are basically, 2 days left for the Home and Garden Show: Saturday, March 10, and Sunday March 11. It is being held at the Maryland State Fair Grounds and the price for adults is $10.

Visit the website for more information and also don't forget to print out the $1 off coupons.



Monday, March 05, 2007

Washingtonian.com 2007 Wedding Guide

Good news!

Heads up: The 2007 Wedding Guide from Washingtonian.com is out!


Definitely check this guide out.

Sunday, March 04, 2007

Omer DeSerres

I went home this week to Montreal for an impromptu visit. And no visit would be complete without a little jaunt to my favorite paper store.

One of the things that I noticed on this visit was a new section of DIY custom invitations. There is a mounted catolog of invitations that you can create yourself with instructions. It's not DIY in a box. More like DIY with instructions. You buy the materials, and they guide you step by step throught the process. One of my favorites:







Another favourite of mine was the delectable paper section. I don't know if you can see it from these pictures but the papers feel like fabric and they are divine.



Ahh, visiting this store always lifts my spirits!

Pier One Imports Sale


A great heads up!

Pier1 is having a fabulous sale - 25% of already reduced sale items.

I just bought a fantastic 28'' silver vases for $13 - absolutely amazing!

There are other great decorating items such as Mitsumata Branches at a height of 3-4' (great for floor displays!) for $5 a branch.

Lots of deals for the DIYers or those looking to supplement florist provided items.