Got the MRS, now for the rest!

Milestones

2011-12-19T17:39:00.000-08:00

I am very happy to announce that since our last encounter my husband has since been hired by a fire department and I have completed my first semester of law school :) They say marriage changes you and I have to say I agree. Since tying the knot I feel that much for motivated. I want to do that much more so that we can have a better life and for the future of our unborn (and un-conceived) kids. So I guess the change is a good thing...

Of course all of this new found motivation comes with its drawbacks... my husband now works 2 hours away (you gotta get in where you fit in) and I am out of the house Monday through Thursday from 8am-10pm with work and school, so we don't get to see each other much. And with that hectic schedule comes pushing back any thoughts of babies any time soon...which sucks but I'm hoping that all this hard work now will end in us playing hard later... sigh

But overall this first year and a half of marriage has been a great ride. I've seen my husband evolve, pursue his dreams and seen some of them become a reality... I've been able to start some of mine...Law student! That's insane! And we're doing it together and for each other and that's pretty awesome.

This just makes me happy

2011-05-06T20:14:00.000-07:00

We moved 300 miles from our friends and family almost 4 years ago, these people have kept me sane. They have been the best friends I could ask for, always visiting, calling, bbm-ing, texting, whatever! We haven't lost contact and they've made it feel like I never left. I am a very luck girl, great man, awesome friends :)

Thank you guys!!!! Miss your faces!

Eating our top layer: Story of Year Old Cake

2011-05-06T19:45:00.001-07:00

I think the tradition of eating your top layer is the most disgusting tradition ever! Our anniversary was on Easter Sunday. I took the cake out of the freezer that Monday to thaw it out.

Every night we'd take it out of the fridge and woosing out and putting it back in the fridge. Finally 3 or 4 days later we did it! We unwrapped the layer upon layer and bit into the most moist year old cake I've ever had (way to go Eddas Cakes!)... It was my husbands favorite, red velvet. Now I neither like cake, nor red velvet. 2 bites into it I wanted to vomit, and my husband started to get grossed out at the thought...by the end of splitting 1 slice we were on opposit end of the kitchen just trying to hold th cake down and me all itchy at the thougt of eating old cake...369 days old!... it is now May 6th and the cake is still sitting on the counter, only one slice missing.

What do I do with the rest? It feels disrespectful to the memory of my wedding to toss it...I think I'll keep it there til it turns to dust lol

I did it!!!

Jumping in with both feet

2011-05-06T19:13:00.001-07:00

So now that I'm really Mrs. D, I feel like I should explain why, after almost 6 years of refusal I actually did it. I pride myself on being a woman of my word, someone who stands by my beliefs, but I'm also very observant and reflective.

I didn't want to change my name mainly because I didn't like his... and partly because I felt like I was losing a part of myself. My last name is really all I have as a connection to my fathers side of my family (we're not exactly close) and I felt like I had to give up more than he did, so partly it was my way of rebelling.

I considered hyphenating, adding his behind mine (no hyphen) or just leaving it be.... and then I looked at the examples I had. The some of people I know who had hyphenated are no longer together. Some of the ones I know who never changed their names divorced, and his mom (Momma D: married 30+ yrs), his grandmother (Grandma D: married 50+ years)..still married. (and Yes, I realize that MANY who change their names end up divorced.) I'm not saying I think changing you're name will lead to happily ever after or that it is a magic formula to wedded bliss, but in my specific case I felt like holding on to my last name would be half-assing my marriage. Maybe in the back of those people's minds they knew where their marriages were headed so they didn't see the point, maybe not, maybe I'm thinking too much as usual...but I really want to do everything I can to make my husband happy. If in the end, I end up "like them" to not use the D word, I'd like to feel like I did EVERYTHING in my power. I want to be able to say I've given this marriage my all. I have given my heart, my life, my future to this man, so what's a last name? Especially if it means that much to him?

Honestly, as much as I hate(d) the last name I've never felt so good...It feels like we were in a pretty little box together and the name change just put a bow on it...we are a package all the way around now. Our kids will have "our name", it just feels whole.

I am officially all his :)

2011-05-06T18:56:00.000-07:00

Easter Sunday fell on my first anniversary :) I am proud to say, after many years of talking all the b-s I could talk I gave him the one thing I knew would mean more to him than anything. I changed my name.

It was literally my plan E! I wanted to keep with tradition and make it a paper or watch themed gift, but its a saying that you never get a man a watch because he'll never have time for you, so that was out. My husbands favorite musical artist was in town so I tried getting him tickets (he had class that night), his favorite comedian came into town (he'd seen him and didn't want to go again), Buccaneer tickets went on sale (good seats were out of my budget), and etc, etc, etc...he was NOT making this easy.

I REALLY felt like this needed to be symbolic of how much he means to me, romantic, and all things "love" like, so the only other thing I could think of was my last name. I started the process 2 weeks before our anniversary. I drove 45 minutes away to the SS office, the next day I went to the Licensing office...I was NOT prepared for signing my new name on the spot! I honestly thought I'd get to keep my signature lol... from there I called all my credit card companies, visited my banks and changed each and every account...mind you, during this time he wasn't allowed to get the mail just in case it blew my cover.

In the end I ended up buying him some hair clippers he'd wanted, cadbury eggs (because my husband thinks hes 6) and the license. I layered it all in a large box, license on the bottom, and wrapped an inch thick in bubble wrap. He loved his eggs, was excited for his expensive &^% clippers, but when he got the the license....it took him almost 5 minutes to unwrap it. He was speechless. That is exactly what I wanted. He was so touched... he said "I've never loved you more than I love you this very moment"... I've never been more proud of my self :)

The only 3 things a man should want to change in his woman:

(1) her address,

(2) her outlook on men,

and (3) her last name...check, check, and check!

Getting to know me: 10 facts

2011-03-23T16:03:00.001-07:00

1: I got married April 24, 2010 after a 2 year, 2 week engagement lol
2: The first year has NOT been hard. I love being his "wife"...I find myself really optomistic for the future.
3: I'm on the path of perfection, invisalign, lasik, law school, I'm trying to make it all happen!
4: I sleep with my eyes opened (i know, i know, I'm a freak).
5: I'm a reality show addict, all the housewives, flipping out, million dollar listing, Kardashians,etc
6: I'm allergic and afraid of cats.
7: I dont like asking for things, confrontation, people eating off my plate without asking, or people in my personal space.
8: Big believer in being yourself. I dont do facades. This is me love it, or like it a whole lot :)
9: I fear childbirth, which is why there are no plans in the near future to have babies. I'm such a woose :(.
10: I am all natural, no contacts, no acrylic, no hair dye, I'm 100% ;)

Life after Wedding...3 months later

2010-08-09T17:09:00.000-07:00

I am so bad at this...you will not believe how many unfinished diaries I have because, much like an ex-boyfriend, once I leave I'm not coming back. But this relation ship has been a good one, so I'll give it a try. It's just hard, after so long catching back up...where do I even start!? So lets do it through baby steps. Hi :) I'm still the future Mrs. D even though I'm married. Its a constant discussion but frankly, I'm not crazy about what "D" stands for and dont see the need in changing my name. He knows I'm his wife, I know, the world knows...so what's the big deal. As a compromise I though, when we finally have kids, to not cause confusion and not have to explain how mami doesnt like papi's name...I'll do it then lol...and even still I'd want to hyphenate lol

So with introductions out of the way lets take a quick but detailed trip off from the wedding to our nest :)

after all that hard work :)

2010-05-14T08:06:00.000-07:00

More of the Pre-Shower Bridal Shoot

2010-03-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

I don't even know what to do with all these great photos with out looking vain! They're way too cool for a simple album but framing them all seems a bit much....maybe just one as wall to wall wall paper! lol But which one!? Hope you enjoy viewing as much as I enjoyed taking!

More Bridal Shower Shots

2010-03-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Seeing this is almost as fun as experiencing it! If you followed my journey from the beginning, I was debating between yellow and green for the wedding. Green won because I couldn't find the right yellow...but my friends brought that dream to life in my shower. I love bright colors!!

And in these pictures you see why!

How can you be anything but HAPPY when in an atmosphere such as this one :)
Many more to come! As I get them from the photographer I'll share them with you!

Arriving at the shower:

Red velvet & Vanilla:
what a cake!

It's all about the details:
favors and guestbook signs

party favors:
sugar & lemon makes lemonade

The Guestbook:
Elephants bring you money and friends bring you love :)

Name Dropping

2010-03-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

I've already told you guys how happy I've been since finding Busy Vee or Busy Vee Creative Pursuits, but I think after such a great wedding shower, it's that time again!

So here's the run down off all the things this lady has done for our wedding!

1. Helped us find our venue

2. Designed and assembled out invitations

3. Planned and executed our shower and shower invitations

4. Handmade and designed our shower decor and favors

5. Designed all paper goods for wedding such as programs and signage

6. As well as going above and beyond in a wedding shower photo shoot

While yes, you can find a friend or mom to help you with these things it helps to have a professional bring new life to your ideas. It went from eloping and using Target wedding invitations to this!!! And I could not be happier. I am beyond amazed and excited with how everything has turned out this far.

Busy Vee: 954-600-6662...ships within the 48 states!

Bridal Shower Sneak Preview

2010-03-15T09:22:00.000-07:00

My Bridal Shower was March 6, 2010 in Boca Raton, FL...and it was AMAZING!!!! Yes people, Busy Vee strikes again! Everything I'm about to show you is custom, handmade decor by my maid and matron of honors and the host of this wonderful event. Adjust the setting on your screen now, because this is about to get bright!!

THE BRIDAL SHOWER CAKE

made by Lil' Bit Cakes

THE VENUE:

terrace of the Spanish River Library

Close up of the decor:

handmade by Busy Vee and Co.

Centerpieces:

lemons & stones with personal messages

I need your help! Be on the lookout!

2010-02-12T09:12:00.000-08:00

I am having a hard time with many things. I still need a makeup/hair person(s), a place for our rehersal dinner, the corset bra for my dress and jewelry for myself! My wedding in in Miami Beach so if you have referrals for any of the above please contact me!

The corset bra, at my alteration ladys is $79 and the same at VS...pricy for something I'll never wear again. Any suggestions of where I can find one??

Also, after watching the Miss USA pageant I became inspired. I saw what I want and what I want is to look like this!! I love that it was just beautiful earrings to compliment a gorgeous dress. That's all you really need! Simple, clean and elegant...and they ALL did it! Noone had on anything other than earrings!

another busy vee production! My bridal shower photo shoot!

2010-02-09T16:03:00.000-08:00

Never heard of a Bridal Shower Photo Shoot?? Yeah me niether! But that's what happens when you have great friends, with great talent and work with Busy Vee!! I was instucted to find a yellow dress, Mr. D was to dress in black and I was not to ask any questions and just show up...and I gladly complied and here's the outcome. My invitations to my bridal shower!

Mr. D and I as babies, as the envelope liner :)

The invitations with details removed

and some fun extras!

Vendor Love: Gil Sosa my florist

2010-01-27T13:59:00.000-08:00

786-295-7535

gil@gilsosadesigns.com

http://gilsosadesign.com/

He is AMAZING!!! Will work with your budget, guide you and he oh so humble! He has no idea how famous he is on the knot!!!

Vendor Love: My Paper Lady Pt. II

2010-01-27T08:32:00.000-08:00

For a destination wedding Busy Vee Created these:

For a Baby Shower:

For Wedding:

And it doesnt stop at invitations, here's what she made for a bridal shower:

The proof is in the photos:

So now for the questions that's been burning us this whole time....

how do you contact her???

Like this :)

I 110% stand behind her as a vendor. I put my own wedding in her hands and have been more than happy with the outcome, and now that mine is near, she should have some room in her schedule for you and yours too :)

Happy Planning!

Vendor Love: Meet my Paper Lady

2010-01-27T06:53:00.000-08:00

I've always raving about a certain Busy Vee and all the magical and wonderous things she does with paper, well now I plan to use not only words, but images {insert gasp} to show you just how fly she is! Brace yourself your in for a ride!

For her 26th Birthday she has a Mystery Stache Bash,

with all personally made decor and favors:

and to top it off a Stache Cake!

Black white and green...I loves it!!

2010-01-23T09:55:00.000-08:00

Signature Drinks for Cocktail Hour

2010-01-23T09:28:00.000-08:00

Love the idea of a signature drink. I'd like to keep it in the color theme though I dont know how to do that with black, white, and green....this is super cute!

maybe set up like this:

Off the top of my head I'm thinking green apple martinis, mojitos, white russian, and...i dunno!!!

Cigar Bar

2010-01-23T08:16:00.000-08:00

We went to Ybor City (located in Tampa, originally built by Cuban Immigrants) and bought a few cigars, got a humidor for presentation and now need ideas on presentation.

I like something like what's on the left, maybe in a frame, with the cigar cutters laid out, and custom matches in a glass jar.

Still working on all of the above...what I need to do is stay off these blogs so I'll stop getting ideas! But that wont happen to to planning I will go!

Our setup will probably be something more like this:

ALERT:

2009-12-29T19:23:00.000-08:00

I HAVE PURCHASED 2 MORE DYES.

I WILL ATTEMPT TO DYE MY CRINOLINE 2 MORE TIMES

BEFORE SETTING IT ON FIRE.

{this was supposed to be green!!! ahhhhhh!!!!}

THAT IS ALL.

My Progress:

2009-12-29T18:48:00.000-08:00

When I'm gone for a while I like to think it's not n vain, I hope you feel the same way. Without further ado, my progress!!

I took the day off yesterday and picked the bridesmaid shoes.

The overall look will be somethng like this:

The actual shoe is this:

I purchased what will be our memoy candles, for our grandpareents who have passed. Working with Busy Vee on designing the velum paper that will wrap each votive.

The left is a prototype, the right is what I purchased...the weddings on the intercoastal, we're caribbean, the shells seemed to o with the theme :)

I am covered in green paint and glitter becuase my bridesmaid gifts are done!

and for Christmas my mom presented me with the best gifts ever!! My completed table runners, veil, and sashes for the bridesmaids dresses :)

Little known wedding facts

2009-12-21T07:27:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite bloggers, Bridal Bliss posted this, and since it was interesting to me, I thought it'd be interesting to you. Enjoy!

"In case you've ever wondered why certain things are almost always done at weddings, the answers are here (well, at least most of the ones I've wondered about). For example, why the bride carries a bouquet or wears a veil? Or why guests throw rice or rose petals over the newlyweds? Below are the origin and symbolism of some of the most popular Wedding Traditions.

This comprehensive list of wedding traditions comes from a delightful little book entitled The Romance of the Wedding Ceremony by Rev. Richleigh Hale Powers, Ph.D. This book has helped many couples personalize their wedding ceremony in a format that is both enjoyable and easy to use.

THE BRIDE'S BOUQUET
Bridal bouquets have evolved through the ages. Saracen brides carried bouquets of orange blossoms to symbolize fertility, and Roman brides carried sheaves of wheat to symbolize prosperity for their husbands. In the eighteenth century, the practice of carrying a bouquet of flowers or herbs became a popular tradition, which symbolized fragility, purity and new life. Bouquets of dill were among the most popular herb carried. After the ceremony, the dill was eaten to "provoke lust." Today, bridal bouquets are tossed to assembled single women to symbolize new life and to pass on the bride's good fortune.

THE SPECIAL MEANING OF THE BRIDE'S VEIL
The veil represents modesty and respect. It symbolizes the sanctity and exclusiveness of the marriage covenant and reminds the couple and the witnesses that the physical relationship is to be entered into only after the vows are completed.

RICE AND PETALS
In the Middle Ages, handfuls of wheat were thrown over married couples to symbolize the hope for fertility. In modern times, rice is thrown instead of wheat to symbolize fertility. In recent years, flower petals have become another alternative, symbolizing beauty, happiness and prosperity.

SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW, SOMETHING BORROWED, SOMETHING BLUE
Old and new items jointly symbolize the passage from the old unmarried state t that of the new married union. The wearing of a borrowed belonging demonstrates community participation in and approval of the wedding. Blue is worn because it is the color that signifies purity, love, and fidelity.

WHITE AISLE RUNNER
A white aisle runner symbolizes walking on holy ground. A marriage covenant is not made merely between two people and their witnesses. It is made in the presence of God and He is actively involved in the agreement. The white aisle runner symbolizes God's holiness.

SPECIAL SEATING FOR THE PARENTS
The parents of the bride and groom are part of the marriage covenant. The commitments they make during the ceremony are just as binding as the vows of the couple. The final responsibility of parents for their children is to determine with them God's will for a life partner. Thereafter, they serve in a chain of counsel for them and their children. Parents enter in the line of authority and leave in the line of counsel.

THE GROOM ENTERING FIRST
By this action, the groom signifies that he is the covenant initiator. This is important because whoever initiates the covenant assumes great responsibility for seeing it fulfilled.

THE FATHER OF THE BRIDE WALKING DOWN THE AISLE
This action has two meanings. By doing so, the father is saying to the bride, "I am endorsing this young man as God's very best choice of a husband for you, and I am now bringing you to him." In addition, the father is saying to the young man, "I am presenting to you a daughter who I have earnestly endeavored to raise as a pure bride."

THE BRIDE AND GROOM TAKING EACH OTHER'S RIGHT HAND DURING THE CEREMONY
The open right hand offered by each party symbolizes their strength, resources and purpose. By clasping each other's right hand, they pledge these qualities to each other so that each partner can depend on all the resources that the other brings into the covenant relationship. The handclasp goes far beyond sealing the contract. It symbolizes the cleaving together of lives which is to be accomplished in the marriage covenant.

THE GROOM MAKING THE FIRST MARRIAGE VOW
The groom must be the leader and assume greater responsibility for fulfilling the marriage covenant. As covenant initiator, he must commit himself to the purposes of marriage which God established in the beginning, and these must be reflected in his vows.

THE SYMBOLISM OF THE WEDDING RINGS
The wedding rings symbolize the promises binding two people together in marriage. The unbroken circle of the wedding band represents the continuity of undying love. Greek theory believed the fourth finger of the left hand to be connected to the heart, making this the appropriate finger to be "bound" in romantic attachment.

KISSING THE BRIDE
During the Roman Empire, the kiss between a couple symbolized a legal bond. Continued use of the kiss to seal the marriage bond is based on the deeply rooted idea of the kiss as a vehicle for transference of power and souls.

THE COUPLE BEING PRONOUNCED "HUSBAND AND WIFE"
This establishes their change of names and a definite point in time for the beginning of the marriage. These words are to remove any doubt in the minds of the couple or the witnesses concerning the validity of the marriage.

SIGNING THE WEDDING PAPERS
The newlywed couple signs the wedding papers to establish a public document and a continuing public record of the covenant.

SIGNING THE GUEST BOOK
Wedding guests are official witnesses to the covenant. By signing the guest book, they are saying, "I have witnessed the vows, and I will testify to the reality of this marriage." Because of this significance, the guest book should be signed after the wedding rather than before it.

THE PURPOSE OF THE RECEIVING LINE
The receiving line is for guests to give their blessings to the couple and their parents.

THE MEANING OF SERVING FOOD AT THE RECEPTION
Food is part of the covenant celebration. It further symbolizes the unity of the couple. Entering into a meal itself is a form of covenant.

THE BRIDE AND GROOM FEEDING WEDDING CAKE TO EACH OTHER
This represents the sharing of their body to become one. A New Testament illustration of this symbolism is The Lord's Supper."

straight from Bridal Bliss

Few more things in the works:

2009-12-16T08:17:00.000-08:00

So I dont know if I explained how apparently every single thing I like is "so last year"... My wedding dress:DISCONTINUED. Flower girl I want:DISCONTINUED. The green dye for everyones shoes: DISCONTINUED....the material for the runners, you guessed it: DISCONTINUED!! I dont know whats up, someone has a sick sense of humor becuase if planning a wedding is hard imagine finding the item you like (scratch that LOVE) and then being told sorry, you cant have it!

But I will not compromise my vision!! The damask print for the runners was found after searing 7 different Jo-Ann Fabric, for this effect:
***another great My Mom creation***

This is almost exactly what I'll be doing except for my notations, the menus and I'll have Chavarri chairs :)

and then the dye for the shoes....aye the dye! Well again the greens you usually see for wedding are more pastel...I am not a pastel kind of person so my green is called celery and I've found 1 Davids Bridal that carries it for this effect:

What do you think??

Has it been that long!!

2009-12-16T07:18:00.000-08:00

I cant believe it's been 2 weeks since my last post! I'm getting so bad at this...really it's becuase I've been slacking in the wedding department...kind of lol.

I paid off the venue (YAY!!)...got my BMs gifts and my MOHs too (so awesome!!) and we've verified that we've got money to cover everything we signed up for (suggest doing that before you sign a contract) and now we're just looking for the hotel, my shoes, and I guess I'll try dying my stupid crinoline again...

Meanwhile my time away has not been in vain....here's what we've done to the house!!

My Office

The Hallway

and more to come becuase these cute little collages take me forever! lol

Just when you thought all the complications were over

2009-12-01T07:18:00.000-08:00

So remember that post where I mentioned wanting to die my crinoline and the great deal I got on my veil...yeah well...

I went to Joanne Fabric and brought the dye. Followed the directions and came out with crap. Literally. My crinoline now looks like seafoam green crap. Mind you, the packaging showed tropical green, but my crinoline is anything but tropical...and now it's all wrinkled too!! Thinking of just trashing it and getting another one :(

As for my veil...lord, lord, lord. I've had it for a nice amount of time. During this time I have it to my mom to add another layer to make it fuller. She originally wanted to make it for me and bought 2 colors of crinoline and I picked the whitest one but she had difficulty making it so I just bought one....well she added the layer like I asked. It looked awesome so I brought out the dress to see them together....ummmm yeah. My veil is bright white and my dress is not so much...They dont match! So we're back to square one. Mami bought more of the darker crinoline and is starting all over with the veil...and I feel so bad, it took her weeks with work and her personal things...but it didnt match!

Invitation Production

2009-11-30T13:03:00.000-08:00

My amazing buddy The Incredible Busy Vee, has started production on my invitation and so far so freaking great!!! I was quarantined for sweaty hand syndrome and was mearing the person who labled the hole punchers :( But I love, love, love them!!!

TAAAAAADDDDDAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!

Our 4 Year Anniversay

2009-11-30T11:49:00.000-08:00

Last month Mr. D and I completed for years {Instead "awwwwwws" here} and we celebrated with a weedend away in Clearwater, FL (home of Hulk Hogan and the Scientology Headquarters). Awesome weekend on the water considering we're now an hour and a half away for the beach, with dolphin sightings, boating and relaxation.

RSVP rut but there has been progress!!

2009-10-23T12:35:00.000-07:00

I know I've been gone for a while but I swear I have something to show for it!! I just dont have it on me now lol...

1- invitations are in production and so far AWESOME!!! I'll be posting pictures as soon as possible as well a information on where you can get equally awesome paper goods as well!

2- Honeymoon has been booked :)

7 night Cruise in the Eastern Caribbean:
Miami, Half Moon Cay, St Thomas, San Juan, Grand Turk

As for my rut, I need a cool RSVP option...like a smiley face/sad face option, thumbs up/down, transformer/decepatcon lol...I just know there's better out there than just a simple accept/regret option...but what is it!!! 6 months to go people!!

Kickin it Old School

2009-10-23T12:30:00.000-07:00

Another post about Mrs. V's wedding!!! I'm a big believer in the non-traditional, seeing the unexpected, and all things that fall within that realm...check out some more sneak peeks in to Mrs. V's wedding that I definately appreciated:

For the Bride and Her bridesmaids

For the groom and his groomsmen

Put it all together and what do you get??

Love it!

all photos courtesy of herastudios.com

Beauty on Budget

2009-10-23T12:10:00.000-07:00

This post is dedicated to new bride and Facebook buddy Mrs. V!
I always felt you HAD to have centerpieces! They must be huge they must be extravagent or the table would look bare....and then Mrs. V got married and look what she did with bold colors, print, petal and a candelabra :)

Guest Tables

Sign -Table

Sweethearts Tables

Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. V! beautifully done!

and I'm sure it costs hell of a lot less then I'm spending! lol Ah well, life is all about lessons learned!

all photos courtesy of herastudios.com

Boudior Session

2009-10-04T16:21:00.000-07:00

Out of respect for my honey, since he feels these are his pictures I'll only post the one, which I've blurred for a bit for anonymity lol. I received the result of my boudoir session and all I can say is wow! It is totally unlike I've ever seen myself before...sexy, seductive and in your face! Again, I recommend every woman do it! I see myself showing my daughter these one day, when she looks at me like I know nothing about being hot, I'll have proof that I invited hot! lol The photographer is the one and only Carmen of Studio by Carmen . Look her up! She does wedding too! LOVE LOVE LOVED the experience!

Officially a Gil Sosa Bride :)

2009-10-02T19:12:00.000-07:00

If you're ever on The Knot in the South Florida section then you know Gil Sosa...this man doesnt even have a website and he's crazy popular! He is extrememly talented, sought after and amazing!!

He works with your vision and your budget and has an AWESOME following. And now I've got him :) My centerpieces will be similar to that shown :)

My mouth is watering as I type...

2009-10-02T19:06:00.000-07:00

We had our fod tasting this past weekend and it was better than I can put into words. We all but licked the plates! At our wedding we'll be offering:

1- mixed greens salad w/ choice of 3 dressings
2-grilled veggies or moro (rice and beans)
3-grilled chicken with choice of sauce
4-grilled skirt steak cooked on site
5-penne pasta with choice of 3 sauces.

and I'm sure I missed something. But, um...yeah...I had dreams about that mean. This has officially made me excited. I can wait to eat and tear into my cake!! This isnt just a weddig it's the party of the century!!!
For you south Florida brides: Americaters!

We've got a winner! Meet my cake!

2009-10-02T18:58:00.000-07:00

Red Velvet and Lemon...need I say more?? Well actually yes...lol the yellow would be green or it wouldnt make sense :) and the top piece is being replicated so we'll have our untouched piece for our 1 year anniversay!!!!!!! OMG I cant wait!!

Cool DIY site!

2009-10-02T18:55:00.001-07:00

Wordle is this funky tool, where you enter some text, hit a few buttons, and you have created a great piece of art-work. The above was created using the lyrics to Ribbon in the Sky which I plan to walk down the aisle to :) and who knows maybe you'll see this around my wedding somewhere!!

Everyone I love, I love in groups:

2009-09-18T12:57:00.000-07:00

The men in my life: Jason and Jelly {our puppy :0) }, my friends Leidy & Laura, my most important people...Mami, Mama and Manito (my mom, g-ma and big brother) and I introduce you to the most important 3:

The reason for this post is Wednesday I was informed my grandmother had suffered a heart attack. She's stable and thay're giving her a tune up but God! was that a scare. Last year my grandfather died, and I hadnt spoken to him for over a year before that happened. No bad blood I just kept putting off calling him until it was too late. Now my grandmother is the only one I have left and I hadnt spoken to her in over a month. This is my second chance and I'm taking it! She promised me 26 more years and I'm holding her to that! {she's 84}...take that as a sign, call your loved ones before it's too late.

Red Carpet Ready

2009-09-07T19:40:00.000-07:00

2 weeks ago 3 of my 6 bridesmaids came up and we hit the town along with Mr. D on a missison to find their dresses, and find them we did!! Like previously posted we foudn all the dress at White House Black Market for the incredible price of $29.99 each! Now they're not comlete, we still need a green sash to go around each one and shoes and jewelry but this is a HUGE step in the right direction, and I show present Busy Vee, P.lo and Little Leidy!

This is Busy Vee looking quite pretty in her Matron of Honor attire :)

Next is P.lo in a dress not quite her size, but looking gorgeous non the less, Maid of Honor at its finest! Her dress {seen in a previous post, came a week later} and fits great!

and finally the Bridesmaid of all Bridesmaids, Little Leidy!

The dress wore by Little Leidy is the same gown the rest of the bridemaids will be wearing, the same dress went up to $59.99 the next weekend....so I went ahead and bought them all! lol

Weekend Buys: Live from Wedding Headquarters!

2009-09-07T18:40:00.000-07:00

This weekend was what I would call "productive"...I was window shopping, just minding my own buisiness, when BAM! out of nowhere pop these awesome finds!

Without further ado I present you this weekends purchases!

This little beauty came from T.J. Max for an amazing $4.99! It stands about 20 inches tall and will hold one of our engagement photos that I'm having put on canvas.

This is our future cake stand and came from Home Goods for $16.99...I haven't ordered our cake yet so all I know is it better fit becuase it's this or nothing! Do you know how expensive cake stands are! Jeez! Almost as much as the cake!

and finally! For wedding headquarters...we've got curtains!!! Because only God knows how hot this room has been with this Florida sun...I dont complain in front of Mr. D becuase I dont want him to know that he made the right choice giving up this room lol...

Oh and that color you see....that's "Fushia Flock" lol not to be confused with pink :)

It fits!

2009-09-04T12:54:00.000-07:00

My MOH received her dress today from White HouseBlack Market and it fits! Yup, this dress was $29.99 when we went, the next day it was up to $59.99 and regular price is about $168 so it was a steal!

My goal is to find a green sash for this and all of the dresses to bring them all together.

Bring in the Ringbearer!!!!!!!!!

2009-09-02T13:22:00.000-07:00

Now that we've gotten official confirmation I'd like to introduce you to Jaden, our ringbearer! He is my FH's, cousin's son...got that? lol

Mr. Jaden hails all the way from Bradenton, Fl and will be accomplianing my cousin's daughet, Alana, down the aisle...kids are so freaking cute! My planis to have both of them formally dress with a twist...maybe some Chuck Taylors?

Now when I say "Pro" you say "Gress"!

2009-09-02T13:07:00.000-07:00

Progess! Progress!! I'm so psyched! and if you know me I'm not easily psyched for fear that things will fall through..taking a minute to knock on wood....but we've found and purchased dresses for the Bridal Party!!! 3 out of my 6 girls are sorta ready to go... By sorta I mean my MOH didnt find it in her size so she ordered on and hopefully when it comes in it'll fit.

As for the dresses they came from White HouseBlack Market Outlet and were on sale for $29.99!!! So my MOH and M(atron)OH will be wearing different styles from the rest of the girls and my MOH will be in Black and white while everyone else will be in black with a green sash {we have yet to start the hunt for the sashes} and I of course in white...the struggle ahead lies in the other 3 being able to find the same dresses...They're in an outlet, which means not everyone will be able to find them...and the other girls are in NY, Miami, and WPB so fairly spreadout. I'll keep my fingers crossed though ;0) My goal is the above, wish me luck!

Photo Guestbook, my latest venture

2009-09-02T12:44:00.000-07:00

I was up past midnight last night designing what will be my "Photo Guestbook" similar to the one seen above. I didnt want your customary sign-in guestbook becuase 1-I'll never look at it again 2-it's a bit boring for me and 3-If I'm never going to look at it I'd rather just x it completely.... but I do want to remember everyone that was present and give them the opportunity to lay down the wisdom so instead I went this route. Through Shutterfly I uploaded my images, layed them out how I wanted them (over 20 pages) and added in quotes, songs and sayings on marriage, leaving just enough room for messages from my guests. I used my engagement session photos since this'll be a nice way to dispaly all 50+ photos.

With shipping (which was waived on orders over $25) I got it for a whopping $27.99!! I did find other site that did it for cheaper but the layouts they provided weren't to my liking... I'll also be putting on of our photos on canvas for the sign-in table (and later for our hallway) and making a book for my boudoir photos :0) Hope they come oput nice I'll repost as soon as I get them!

Feeling inspired...

2009-08-25T18:48:00.000-07:00

Now this song is in no way new, but driving home today from the gym I heard Jason Mzra's "I'm Yours"... I just pictured a nice slow stroll down the aisle up to my love to this song...I dont know, what do you think?

Well open up your mind and see like me

open up your plans and damn you're free

look into your heart and you'll find love love love love

listen to the music at the moment people dance and sing

Were just one big family

And it's our godforsaken right to be loved loved loved loved loved

So, i won't hesitate no more,

no more, it cannot wait i'm sure

there's no need to complicate our time is short

this is our fate

I'm yours

Something blue

2009-08-23T18:20:00.001-07:00

Another Ebay win! I introduce you to my "something blue" it's a Victoria's Secret baby blue satin garter w/ tags. I won it for $.99 and with shipping it was $4!

Not bad!

Crinoline has arrived!

2009-08-23T17:56:00.000-07:00

I got my crinoline in and am super happy with it! Again it was from Ebay, for $20 and exactly what I ordered. Nice and fluffy, multi layered and will look so much better once it's green!

Cant wait!

Everlasting Love Flutes

2009-08-17T10:28:00.001-07:00

Hop on over to your local Things Remembered for this great deal.

"When it's time for the happy couple to respond to that first toast, make usre they do it in style with these elegant champagne flutes. The base and stems are plated in silver and the flutes come in an elegant presentation box."

All for $39.99!

And if you dont like this one, they have others available for the same price.

Aye Veil!

2009-08-11T14:35:00.000-07:00

Just paid for my veil! 1 tiered, 72in L x 108in W diamond white cathedral length veil with swarorski crystals for $21 total!

Seller is "cutebrides"on Ebay.

My today has been productive!

Get ready for a dye job!

2009-08-11T13:04:00.001-07:00

Just paid for my crinoline! Bought it on Ebay from seller "favorpro" for $20 including shipping! Best part was the seller takes "best offer" meaning he was asking $20 I offered $10 and with shipping got it for $20 total...could have gotten if for cheaper than that had I tried harder, but ah well, moving on!

My next plan is to buy dye and make it match with my "wedding green" or black to coordinate with my wedding colors much like the image on the left, I just need to make sure it doesnt show thought my dress since it's organza.

I get so excited over project like these!! Taking the traditional and making it your own :) Love it!

Ebay-kinda Bride

2009-08-10T14:30:00.000-07:00

So what have I been doing all Monday you ask? Searching the best site in the world! I'm currently watching a crinoline petticoat for $20 with shipping (which I plan to die), a garterbelt (my something blue) for $5 and a Garmin GPS (just becuase I'm always lost) for $85....I'm also giving my MOH some time before I give up on her and just buy my own ring pillow.

Oh! And my wedding dress came from there! Originally $1100 I got it for $700! And my cake toppers (3 individual monograms) for $30! (I'll post pictures later)

Still to do:

Make invitations

Book Hotel

Book Honeymoon

Find bridal party outfits and gifts

Decorate aisle runner

Book florist

Order Cake
Finish Pomander
Find flowergirl dress
confirm hoopa (using my friends)

3 Day sale on The knot!

2009-08-10T06:32:00.000-07:00

Savings Heads up! The Knot is having their last sale of the season with up to 75% off on wedding items!

Everything from napkins, coasters and favors to bridal party gifts and name changing kits. Also, look out for the personalized "mrs." bikinis and tanks!

Air and Sea Show to Return in 2010!

2009-08-10T05:52:00.000-07:00

The Air and Sea show is returning to Fort Lauderdale in April 2010 after a two-year hiatus. The popular show, once sponsored by McDonald's, will return bearing a new name: Air Lauderdale Beach Fest and will take place on April 24th and 25th. The annual beachfront display show will feature an assortment of military airplanes, fighter jets, bombers, helicopters, military choppers and stunt pilots brought to you at no expense to the taxpayer. Air Lauderdale, the event's promoter, has agreed to cover all of the show's expenses and post a $750,000 bond.

All that is so great for S. Floridians...only thing it that's my wedding day! Yup, while I'm trying to have an outdoor wedding there will be helicopters and military planes flying overhead... YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME! So now we need to hurry up and get hotels rooms and a backup plan...ugh!

Good morning all!

The Wedding March is so 1980s

2009-08-06T13:28:00.000-07:00

Dancing down the aisle is the hot new wedding trend and I realllllyyyy think we'll be joining in on the trend!

Now to coordinate BMs that are spread all over the East Coast... GMs that have 2 left feet and the kids in our bridal party that I have no clue what their situation is! LOL We'll see but I'd really like to do this.

Forehead down, belly in!

2009-07-30T17:30:00.000-07:00

I went to Miami the weekend of the 25th to meet with some potential vendors and TO TAKE MY BOUDOIR PHOTOS!!!! As stated previously I won a wedding planner who works closely with a photographer, and as part of that package I got to pick from a bridal, engagement or boudoir session. Since my photographer already includes the first two, I thought it would be awesome to provide my honey with the latter, and OMG was it an awesome experience.

I introduce you to P Provocateur By Carmen. The photographer is The Amazing Carmen (of Studio By Carmen) who is, well, amazing! I haven't seen the photos yet so I don't know how happy I'll be but the experience itself was awesome. I am not one who likes to be exposed and I dont see my self as sexy at all... 5'3 and a A-cup... I mean really! lol But Carmen made me feel like a modern day Jessica Rabbit.

I arrived at her studio and we chatted over my outfits like girlfriends...layed out my "gear", picked the order they would go in and with what accessories. Then we were off. Here I was, in front of someone I had just met less than 5 minutes before in a garter belt thigh-highs and stilettos and I wasn't uncomfortable at all! Mind you, before I'd gotten there I was totally freaked. In our one phone call she asked me what I was bringing (I felt exrememly embarassed mentioning my lingerie) and what size I was (ummm do we really need to talk cup size lol)...I felt like I was at the gyno lol ... but as soon as I walked through those doors Carmen made me feel like I was in jeans and a shirt (sexy jeans, mind you) and not weird or uncomfortable at all!

The shoot lasted about an hour and a half. The whole time I was sucking in my belly, trying not too look like a deer in head lights and laughing. Really good experience that I think every woman should have. It's like an adults "dress up". Completely out of my character and I loved it, and I hope he'll love it too! And one day when my daughter is dressed all skanky and tells me I know nothing about being sexy, I'll have something to show her..because YES it was classy...and I'm proud I did it :)

**For those of you not based in Florida (she's located in Miami) she holds marathon shoots nationwide, and if you contact her with interest she may hold one in your city!**

Pictures to come!...maybe lol (he doesn't like that idea)

I look like a sexy alien :)

2009-07-13T18:41:00.001-07:00

I am taking off running today! I dipped out on the gym today and got right to crafting. My Card Box is 90% complete, I just need to glue on the bases and add on the orchids and then, it's a wrap! First project almost complete!!!

these bases are the reason I'm alien-like. I used a sponge brush, green paint and glitter on each base once dried I'll glue everything together an add the flowers.

added some ribbon and letter sto the top tier

in the end it will look something like this, almost there but not quite...

I'll get back to you

I also started on my flower girl's pomander:

I used a metal skewer to poke the ribbon all the way through, and hot glue to attach the flowers.

Originally I'd bought hydrangeas at $8.99 a branch from Michaels, then found these carnations at Walmart for about $2 a branch and they look fuller and better.

Not too sure about these leaves, they're not glued in, thinking of maybe

adding them for a splash of color...but I dont think I like that dark green.

I'll be adding a strand of pearls for a triple handle effect. To be seen

I've also decided to make my own aisle runner...and large initials...and add rhinestones to my heels, and, and, and....lol we'll see how much I can take.

Cakes, cakes and more cakes

2009-07-09T19:30:00.000-07:00

How pretty are these!!

Perfect dress for the perfect girl

2009-07-09T19:21:00.000-07:00

I just emailed these 2 dresses to my cousin to see which one she likes for her daughter, our flower girl. Found them on Etsy from seller Sweet Plume and they come with a detachable apron made of feathers (hence the Plume) which I'll be forgoing...they run for about $85

what do you think?!

Wedding Inspiration:

2009-07-08T19:00:00.000-07:00

Just some random things that inspire me, looks I'm going for or working off of:

love love love the use of pearls here and the beading on her gown.

simple, elegant and clean...love it!

and now I LOVE Mr. D...so I think these cake toppers reflect

that pretty well :) Don't you?

seriously doubt using on like those though, again we're going for simple and clean,

this is more my style:

Flower Girl Pomander

2009-07-08T18:44:00.000-07:00

Along with the card box I am also working on my flower girl's pomander, for your newbies to the wedding lingo it's the } more neat} alternative to the basket with petals.... and is pretty easy.

I bought a styraform ball from Michaels, a hot blue gun, some silk flowers, ribbon, wire cutters and green paint to cover the styafoam ball and ensure there were no white spots left uncovered.... In the end I hope this

looks something like this:

The making of our card box...

2009-07-08T18:30:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time there were plain boxes sold 3 for $7 at Michaels, til one day Future Mrs. D came upon them with a vision, a vision for a better, prettier tomorrow... this is my more expensive reference/inspiration:

It's a bit "much" for me so I'm going for a more subdued version in the same color combination.

For this project all I used were the round hat boxes, spray glue, ribbon, a hot glue gun (to attach the ribbon), box cutters (for the holes), wrapping paper, wire cutters (for the silk flowers) and silk flowers... check Walmart for cheaper prices on the glue gun, spray glue and wire cutters.

Back in Wedding Mode

2009-07-08T17:45:00.001-07:00

Slowly {very slowly} I've made my way back to wedding planning...the house is still in the work and with that is the beginning of Wedding Central, my home away from home:

Anyone have a chair I can have lol

Discount Alert! @ Ikea

2009-06-26T20:32:00.000-07:00

If your a DIY type bride then you should definately check out your local Ikea... I went there today (before Old Navy lol) and found some greatdeals on vase and pots, perfect for centerpieces and just plain decor!

So check it out it' #2 of two annual sales.

Oh and they serve free breakfast tomorrow morning! Giving you all the energy you'll need to run around that show room :)

Beach babes beware! Old Navy Sale!

2009-06-26T20:24:00.001-07:00

Old Navy is having it's $5 swimwear sale from now until Saturday! Each piece $5 and they have so much to choose from! So whether it's to get tan & wedding ready, for your honeymoon or even just to get a man they have something for you!

I personally got 5 pieces for $26..not bad at all! Spread the word!

Do you remember where you were when you heard the news?

2009-06-25T18:12:00.000-07:00

I was driving home in the rain listening to the radio, when they announced that he had died of cardiac arrest. His musical contribution to to our lives will be missed and my prayers go out to his family and children. Regardless of everything, at the end of the day he was EXTREMELY talented and that's something that cannot be denied. With that I leave you with my favorite Michael Jackson Video:

DO YOU REMEMBER:

Here we go again....

2009-06-20T20:39:00.000-07:00

In my last wedding related post I was uber excited that we'd gotten a date and time for our ceremony. Well last night after talking to Mr. D's family we're having second thought. Our ceremony is to take place at 7:30, last about 45 minutes, pictures afterwards, then a cocktail hour, then food then dancing.... meaning the food wouldnt be until about 11pm.... which is super late and doesnt leave much time for dancing. His aunt is saying we either need to find another church that can do it earlier (ours only offers 4:30 or 7:30 because they have confession and mass in between and 4:30 was already taken) or X the church.... find a priest that'll do it at the venue and save the $900 they're charging us. Also, when we were there no one could tell us how much the music would cost (not included in that $900), so I emailed the music director to find out it's another $300...so now we're up to $1200....

Mr. D is almost all but convinced that we should just have the ceremony at the venue. My only concern is that "walking down the aisle" feel. Am I willing to give that up? Other than saying "I do" that walk is HUGE! Walking through those doors up the aisle to the alter, standing before God.... I just dont know. I hate how I make a decision and then people have advice! Why didnt they mention all of that before we drove 4 hours to Miami and gave a 50% deposit!? Now his dad is going to talk to a priest they know, and we'll go fro there. But what do you think I should do??

The Unveiling: Welcome Home

2009-06-20T20:32:00.000-07:00

Our new Washer & Dryer

2009-06-09T19:38:00.000-07:00

This is our washer & dryer :) $1500 total at Lowe's including delivery and all hoses, etc. ohhhhhh, ahhhhh lol

Important Update #2

2009-06-09T19:32:00.001-07:00

The closing we didnt do yesterday was rescheduled to today and we closed this afternoon!! Mr. D and I are now homeowners!!! I cried lol. His mom is paying for a cleaning lady to clean, his father is paying for the Stanley Steemers to clean all the floors, we purchased our fire proof safe for our mortgage docs, and tomorrow the water, power and our Brand New Whirlpool Washer and Dryer are being delivered.... My God is an awesome God :) So now that that's out the way its full blast wedding planning!! Oh and my camera came back from Casio so now I'll be able to upload photos! (that's why they're all been photos from the web lately lol) Stand by!! Wedding Planned or Bust!

Important Update #1

2009-06-09T19:26:00.000-07:00

That church down there...yeah we got it!!! Yayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy We made the decision to go. They didnt get the papers for the closing by 2 and it was a 5 hour drive to the church so we made the decision to go to Miami instead of wasting another day and I'm so glad we did. We'll be walking down that aisle at 7:30 p.m. on April 24, 2010 :)

Funny thing is that when we were 2 hours away from the church they called and said the papers were ready and I was like "oh hell no!!"...of all the times to get that damn call... but we kept going becuase in my eyes this wedding is forever and that house is only for the next 30 years :)

Oh and in case you follow the news, this is the Catholic Church where the priest got caught with a girlfriend and had to leave the priesthood :) Gotta love the drama.

This is the church I should be at today :(

2009-06-08T08:27:00.000-07:00

The orientation is today at 7:30... and here I am at work, waiting for a call that maybe the closing papers came.

What should I do? We MUST be present if we want our wedding there and it's only the 2nd Monday of every month...being that I'm wasting my vacation away, I wont have another Monday this year. What would you do?

That damn house...

2009-06-08T08:11:00.000-07:00

I took 10 days off for this house. We were suppsoedly closing Friday. Our broker was waiting on tax transcripts that we was confident could be waived. We could hear something by 12...by 6 we still hadnt heard from him. Then Saturday our realtor says to stay close becuase she was goingto see if she could give us the keys and we move in early and sign later...Saturday came and went without a mention of the keys...Sunday she says the title company said no. So today I came to work. Today we were supposed to get a call at 10 with an update, we call at 11 after not hearing anything...they're still waiting. So I took off 10 days to pack, clean, move and take care of our apartment and our house and so far it's been a complete waste of my time. We partially packed.... but for what?

I talked to one of his coworkers who said her closing was rescheduled 3 times. My coworker says she lived in a hotel for a week because the same thing happened to her... I am feeling very pessimistic right now. I've prayed on it. I dont want anything rushed and if it takes time to do it correctly, then by al means...but atleast dont leave us hanging! Stop mentioning all these great possibilities becuase it gets my hopes up, stop saying you'll call at 10 and then let me figure it out at 6 when the call still hasnt come, and dont have me "stay close" on the only Saturday without rain for no damn reason! UGHHHHHHH!!! I could punch them all in their faces.

I'm no Cake Diva...I keeps it simple

2009-06-05T19:43:00.000-07:00

I always thought I'd like some crazy, Mad Hatter, over the top, lop-sided wedding cake...But now that I'm in the position of power I find myself being drawn to the simple, clean and classic...mind you I dont want it to be just a pile of frostig sitting in the corner but I also want this to be elegant. So these are a few of my ideas... keep in my my color scheme, these are just ideas.

another vent session

2009-06-05T19:25:00.000-07:00

We were supposed to close on our house today...the broker was waiting on "something" and if he had it by ten a.m. it was a "go"...10am came and went. We were told to stay close and that hopefully we'd get it in time to close today, move over the weekend and have time to drive the 5 hours to Miami for the orientation at the church for our wedding. I took off today through next Friday just for that. To sign, get my orientation done and move fully! And yeah so far a total bust. At 6 we're told that they were waiting for my tax transcripts... that maybe they'll get them by tomorrow and let us sign then, give us the keys and then we'll sign the rest Monday (if that even makes sense)...afternoon...meaning that now there's no time for the church orientation. And as for the orientation, it's the 2nd Monday of every month and we both have to be present to set a date and put down a deposit...I dont have Mondays off. I work your regular M-F...so for me to take another Monday off is not likely, not if I want off during the holidays (my job only give the "day of" off) so my days have already been allocated. Now it looks like I either go back to work early to be able to have days left to go down to Miami some other time, or.....or nothing...there's no Plan B, if I want to walk down that aisle that's it. Soooooooooooo pissed.

Bridal Registry

2009-06-05T18:32:00.000-07:00

The one thing I dont like about bridal registries are your sterotypical bridal gifts...the "Fine China" the glass vases, frames and candle sticks, and the foo-foo stuff that will only come out during holidays, when the person who gifted it is coming to visit, or when you're regifting it... so my registry was pretty short becuase I was avoiding all such items like the plague. But at the same time I felt like I was missing out. I'd have nothing really WOW if I had guest over but refused to get something that was so blah that it would compromise my vision of the "Married Me".

Fastforward- Today we went and registered at Bloomingdale's and Macy's....and OMG!!! Did I fall in love. Bloomgindale's carries this line call Nambe' and it is soooo me....

In case you didnt know this already I'm Dominican..I grew up around alot of wood household gadgets such as these:

So when I saw these I was automatically drawn...it's like your Modern Dominican! It's my grandmother, my mother and now me with a modern twist! I love it! Introducing Nambe'!

"The proprietary eight-metal aluminum-based alloy has the luster of silver and the solidity of iron. It can be preheated to 500 degrees or chilled in the freezer; this coupled with its superior temperature retention properties makes Nambé Alloy markedly useful for cooking and serving. "

and yup, I sure did register for all of the above so go forth and purchase freely lol....warning: Honestly, they're rediculously expensive (ie. that salad bowl is over $200) but if you like and you can afford knock yourself out! I only registered on the off chance that someone would actually purchase a piece :)

Bridal Jewelry

2009-06-05T17:59:00.000-07:00

I was home with the flu watching HSN and they were showing a new line of jewelry by the bridal designer Demetrios and I was inspired...so I started by research and as always it started at Etsy...

byCJ

$70

$125

PenelliBelle

$124

$89

Probably just with some simple stud earrings...I want the focus on my chest, I have no boobs so why not lol

To drink and how much to drink, that is the question!

2009-05-31T11:13:00.000-07:00

My venue allows us to provide our own liquor my problem has been trying to figure out how much and what kinds to buy...until now!!

100 Guests

Red Wine: 12 bottles

White Wine: 12 bottles

Champagne: 20 bottles

Beer: 120 bottles

Vodka: 4 bottles

Gin: 2 bottles

Rum: 2 bottles

Bourbon: 2 bottles

Scotch (blended): 1 bottle

{so far I have one bottle of rum and one of vodka...loooonnng way to go lol}

150 Guests

Red Wine: 18 bottles

White Wine: 18 bottles

Champagne: 30 bottles

Beer: 180 bottles

Vodka: 5 bottles

Gin: 3 bottles

Rum: 3 bottles

Bourbon: 4 bottles

Scotch (blended): 3 bottles

Planners estimate one drink per person per hour. (A bottle of wine or Champagne contains five drinks; a liter of spirits, 22.) For each bottle of spirits, you need three containers of mixers—club soda, tonic, juice, and so on. Warm weather outdoor weddings call for more clear liquors (for vodka gimlets and gin-and-tonics), cocktail parties might prompt guests to order martinis, and multi-course sit-downs will necessitate plenty of wine.

“Having a specialty cocktail for the evening is a great cash-saving trick that I always recommend to my clients,” says Linnea Johansson, an events planner and author of Perfect Parties: Tips and Advice from a New York Party Planner (amazon.com). “It’s a stylish way to start a celebration and it makes things easy, since the drink can be premixed.”

as seen on http://www.realsimple.com/

It's almost official

2009-05-18T18:03:00.000-07:00

We just came home from signing the papers for our mortgage application. The appraisal and inspection should be done by Friday and then we start shopping around for Homeowner's insurance. The closing is now looking like it'll happen on June 5th...OMG!! This is my silver lining to all the wedding drama. I'm really proud of us. We moved out of our parents house with nothing but couches and pots to our names. We got our own apartment, and a year later are getting a house. I was so worried we wouldnt make it. And here we are engaged, almost homeowners and with the cutest puppy in the world. i think we've done really well so far. I really couldnt have asked for a better person to experience this stage of my life with. If his wasnt for his calm demeanor to my nuerotic one I would have moved back home along time ago becuase I would have had a nervous break down. He's a good man. I hope everyone is as lucky :)

Let you know how it goes with the house on friday.... In case you're curious this is the house. Wish us luck!!

Let the fighting begin

2009-05-18T17:49:00.000-07:00

So I'm working on the guestlist, or rather trying to get final numbers as soon as possible. I was talking to my mom about it and she wanted me to send her my list so she could see if anyone was missing. Well my list is in my binder, I could scan it but my mom wouldnt know how to open the attachment...so I ask her who she's looking for and I'll tell her if they're on the list. Nope, she wants the list. She says Mr. D let him mom make a list so now she wants to make one too.

My mom has no friends. My list was all family. My mom is one of 8 and all 8 are accounted for. What more can she wants?? Well that started a fight. Fast forward...

Yesterday I, being a nice person, give in and type up my list and email it to her. She then calls back and says I forgot my grandmothers sisters and her kids... (ie my moms aunt and cousins). I'm honest, I didnt forget they were left off. We're only having 100 people. 50/50. With my immediate uncles and aunts and cousins, there's NO room for 2nd and 3rd cousins. She then questions why my oldest friend from 4th grade is on the list. She is the only friend I have coming that isnt from College, that's deep! But when I tell my mom that she just says I'v known my family all my life. Yes, but the last time I saw these people I wasnt even with my Fiance...they dont know him, dont even know I'm engaged so I'm sure they'll be alright. She starts yelling, I start yelling for her to stop yelling and she hangs up on me.

Mr. D is next to me when it happens, he says something I dont catch but figure it's him being a smart ass and I just GO OFF on him :(

I dont think I can handle this part. This afternoon I emailed my mom (who isnt speaking to me know)....I proposed she can have 10 ppl, no questions asked. Mr. D and I will split the other 90. What do you think? Has anyone else gone through this? I'll let you know if it works, I'm at the point where I just want to forget it all and elope, but he's not having it. His family isnt giving him crap so he doesnt see the problem. To that I said I'm done. I've handed over the reigns and he's in charge of this wedding becuase I'm about to self destruct.

Bitter-sweet news!

2009-05-14T17:45:00.000-07:00

So we heard back from our realtor yesterday and the offer we put in has been accepted!! So our gorgeous 3/2 w/ den, 2 car garage and huge lanai is >< align="center">Closing costs are usually 6% of the purchase price

align="center">My example: $143000, 6% of that is $8580. They pay half we pay half.

We also have to come up with a down payment.

We're now at $8581 due at closing...ie June 8th

We had no intentions of paying closing costs. We were prepared to pay about $4k as a downpayment, but not almost $9k. We figured we're paying $8k more than their asking, what more do you want!! We have the money {thanks to family coming through we now have $13k =) } but what about the wedding!?

I'M SO SAD! The house is appraised at $201k, so the deal is awesome, if we lock in a 5% interest rate the mtg. will be $1165m, so it's all doable bu what about my wedding :(

my DIY completed!

2009-05-06T18:31:00.000-07:00

today everyone got my DIY projects. So far great reviews!! My MOH was happy even though it was a little small (the black tank with "P.Lo") lol so it's turned into a gym shirt :), my bride-to-be, Ivy got her Bride-to-Be shirt and loved it!!! And we're still waiting on Busy V's reaction, but I cant take the anxiety so I'm posting! Ready, set, post!

Unfortunately, the yellow one didnt make it...RIP Old Navy Tank.

Look what I can do!

2009-05-03T18:19:00.000-07:00

So this weekend I was productive, but totally NOT for my wedding lol. I got inspired to make things and decided to roll with it. I made a few things for my friends {which I'll post after they see them} and a few things for your truly:

and a sneak peek at what I made them, or at least the gift tags:

Househunting sucks!

2009-05-02T14:21:00.000-07:00

Yeah...so we never heard back from our realtor...I emailed her and she says she hasnt heard from the bank...UGH!! How frustrating!

We still have 4 more houses to see tomorrow, but I have an outstanding offer out there so I dont think I can make another one... I dunno, severely bummed.

Anywho my planner is hard at work on other things. Getting me a quote from the florist for either potted white orchids as a center piece or various white flowers in water. And a quote from the cateror who wont return my calls. My stepfather just told me he's giving us $5k toward the wedding and Mr. D's mom has offered to take care of the catering and bar bill. {After writing all those blessings, I'm thinking maybe I shouldnt be so depressed} You guys have a good Saturday! Off to the groomers!

Hoping, and praying and wishing and....

2009-05-01T12:31:00.000-07:00

Dont know if I told you guys that we put in an offer on a short sale. The property was originally bought for $297k and we're offering $143k.....HUGE!! step for us and we're super nervous, short sales take forever and our realtor says the bank should be getting back to us by today. It's almost 4pm and nothing...

Tag you're it!!

2009-04-28T18:55:00.000-07:00

Yay!! It's my first tag by the oh so talented, oh so busy Busy Vee! Thank you for always thinking of me!! For someone so busy, so all over the place with projects know that I feel special that you still remember the little people lol.

The Rules are as Follows:

1. Choose a minimum of 7 blogs for brilliance in content/design.

2. Show the winners and let them know.

3. List at least 10 honest things about yourself.

So for my ten honest things:

1- I was scared to death of this wedding. I have just started to get excited. As soon as April 24th came around my whole attitude turned around. I am finally looking forward to this, excited even and that feeling is amazing!! I'm not scared, nervous (even though technically all I have is a expensive party since I have no church, caterer, etc.) or anything negative. I'm finally feeling positive.... and that feel sooooooooo good :)

2- I'm a chronic "yeah-yeah" aka one of those people who always says yes to plans then flakes. I moved to Orlando and left all of my friends behind a year ago now I could kick my self in the ass for all those times I flaked. I've only done it twice since I've been here (which is a lot if you take into consideration that I really dont have anyone to flake on here) but I'm working on it. I'm pushing myself to hang, to visit and to KIT. It's not that I'm antisocial it's just that I'm THAT lazy! The idea of getting dressed, driving and then catching up and exerting all that eneregy being excited is exhausting!! But don'y judge me! I'm working on it!

3- I've discovered I'm a prankster. My latest and most frequent vistim is our receptionist at work. I've hidden her wallet, put salt in her water bottle (which she later squirted in my hair, soooo pissed! lol), taped her phone down, wrapped a slinky around her whole desk and scare her every chance I get... she's just too easy lol

4- I like being in the know. I dont necessarily need to be involved but I want to know...news, reality TV, Twitter (look for me as IamOMY), Facebook, Myspace, even this blog...I'm involved in all of that! I think it's my way of catching up without exerting the energy. I dont like being the last to know :(

5- I dont prooffread..not a shock if you've read my blog before and seen my typos. I dont do it to be lazy but I'm very self concious. If I re-read what I've written I'll end up deleting and just putting too much thought into how my writing will be perceived...so I dont. So just know that what you read are my thoughts as they come, completely uncensored. Good or bad.

6- I've always prided myself as being honest. I wont lie. If I'm quiet it's becuase I have nothing nice to say. I've recently noticed that I may be too honest. It pushes people away and that's not what I'm trying to do. I dont want to be that cranky old lady who's pushed everyone out of her life with her mouth, so again I'm working on it...it's starting with just staying quiet if I have nothing nice to say...and the next step I'm not sure of....like I said, working on it.

7- I'm always on the path to personal improvement. I've always been fascinated by people and what makes them click and their characteristics and personalities and I did not exclude myself in that analysis. I'm very self aware and try to constantly be a better me. Along with changing my brutally honest, flaky self, I'm hitting the gym. Not for the wedding, I DO NOT want to lose weight, I just want to be a better me. Healthier, more tone and just all around better.

8- When I love I love hard. My mom, grandmother, brother and now Mr. D are the apple of my eyes. I cannot picture this life without them. And in that circle of trust are my friends. There's nothting I wont do for you if I love you. And to my girls that read this I love you and appreciate everything you do and all the time you've been there and supported me.

9- On that note...I'm EXTREMELY emotional. I'm such a hardass on the outside but wow am I soft! It's annoying actually. I feel so weak when I cry but I do it often. Writing #8 made my eyes water lol. Everytime I tell Mr. D how I feel about him I cry...he must think I'm nuts lol

10- and finally!!!! I find this extremely hard. I consider myself such an open boook that finding 10 things that people dont already know if super hard for me!! I acually got a headache from this and am so glad it's done!! So there!! I did it and I'm done! You're turn!!

with that I tag My Dream Ring, Jess, Bridal Bliss, Jessica's Design Shop, Simple Pleasures, Budget Savvy Bride, and The Buckeye Bride...if you're interested you call check out all of their blogs on the right!

With that I leave you! Good Night!!

Hate that Dress!

2009-04-28T18:23:00.000-07:00

We went to David's Bridal to try on the dress I'd posted a while back, and wow does the internet lie! The dresses looked amazing on the site, classy, expensive and beautiful... in person was a whole nother story...They looked cheap, cheap and cheap... Needless to say David's Bridal and all bridal stores have now been crossed off the list. I'm going department store. That way the dress can definately be used again, will be of quality and will look it!

Hated it!

Contest Heads up!

2009-04-28T14:12:00.000-07:00

iDIY is giving away a away a $40 gift certificate towards a photobook at MyPublisher! She used MyPublisher in creating such guestbook (as well as the photobook gifts to her parents) since she'd heard nothing but good things about them. And she couldn’t be happier with the results! So check her out and good luck!!

You guys are making me look bad...

2009-04-26T19:18:00.000-07:00

So I've been on billions of blogs and everyone is sooooooo creative in their method of proposing to their bridesmaids...I've seen fancy cards, fancy gifts....well I'm not at all creative {we'll I have ideas I just can't create} and I'm broke!! So in my own way I wanted to let my girls know that I appreciate them... Dont laugh at me! It's my first time doing this and I will never claim to be Martha Stewart or anything close... So here's how I proposed to my MOH and one of my bridesmaids:

Needless to say they said yes lol but who can turn down red velvet cupcakes with chocolate frosting?? {no matter how ugly the lettering} like I said I'm no Martha but I try.

Bling Blow!! His ring has arrived...

2009-04-26T18:28:00.000-07:00

So let me tell you a little about my Mr. D. He is NOT one to be left out... if I'm out with my friends he wants to come with, if I go shopping he wants to know what I brought him...so this wedding is no different. My ring is pretty nice, awesome really lol and he wasnt not having your stereotypical wedding band. I've tried to convince him that one center stone is nice, that the simple band can have diamonds added but Nope!! So this is what he found online...
So sure enough, because he's SOOOO SPOILED and honestly I just love to see him happy this is what he got:One carat micropave diamonds in yellow gold... So not wedding-esque, wayyy to loud, but hey it's forever and I want him to love it. That way there's no excuse for me to EVER catch him without it. We got in in Kay's ghetto book (that's what the sales lady called it lol) it's the book where they havedog tags, name plates and the earrings with with your names in them. That's my honey, had to be the one lol!

Why I've been gone so long....

2009-04-26T18:23:00.000-07:00

The market is for buyers... and since I'm getting married I figured why not add a house to the list of things to do. Our lease expires at the end of June and we keep thinking that where ever we are is where we'll start our lives as married people. So we started the house search... We're looking in Clermont, which is NW of Orlando and beautiful! It's called the Gem of the Hills, and the houses are bigger (1800 sq. ft plus) newer (2006 and newer), cheaper ($119k-$135k) and the lots are larger...so my commute will be doubled but what I'll be getting for my money will be worth it.

More E-session pictures

2009-04-26T12:37:00.000-07:00

We finally received out engagement session pictures and are soooooooooo hapy with them!! Remember MichelleMoralesPhotography.com!!

Invites... it's not just about paper

2009-04-26T12:19:00.000-07:00

It started with googleing images of green and white invites and seeing how expensive customized invites are.... I actually WON customized invites, or at least a dicount on them and was being offered them for $300. $300 for invites alone is not inthe budget. N-O-T in the budget at all. So luckily, I have amazing friends and once again V came through... here goes the process:

It started with shopping around 4 different paper stores...before this I only knew of Office Depot and copy paper. God, who knew there were so many differen versions of white and textures, etc! So overwhelming!

Noone said chosing paper was pretty lolWe were up until 2am drafting, sketching, scanning, tracing and just being creative
and of course Mr. D could not stay focused...so my MOH taught him how to knit lolI heart those little lips <3in the end we came up with something like this...

Monograms, shamograms....

2009-04-26T11:51:00.000-07:00

So it's been quite a while and not much has been accomplished...we got side tracked with house shopping and after finding one we like enough to put in an offer we're back on track! So hi everyone and brace yourself for an inundation of informaton!! We've been working with the bet brides maid ever on our invitation and monograms and came up with some pretty cool ideas with which I present you:

So what do you think??

E-Session Sneak Peek

2009-03-20T15:58:00.001-07:00

This past weekend was by far the most productive in this year of plannng!! My Girls V and P.lo came up for the weekend and we made moves all over Orlando...2 days ater was my Engagement Session with Mr. D and our photographer. It was beyond amazing and here's a look into what's to come!!

All photos a product of MichelleMoralesPhotography.comfor all pictures check out http://moralesphotography.zenfolio.com/, Jason and OmairaPassword: 042410

Take a look

2009-03-15T18:27:00.001-07:00

aqua dream - by omy_o_my on Polyvore.com

First Book Recommendation

2009-03-12T08:20:00.001-07:00

{read cupcake's book now}
I read A LOT. Definitely more than the average bear. I try to get through a couple books a week. I am in my own personal book reading contest. I prefer non-fiction. Reading can change your life, your perspective, inspire you, make you laugh, make you cry, make you think. I read this book when I was in high school and have made it my mission to spread the word ever since.

'A piece of cake' by Cupcake Brown made me cringe. The same way you might driving by an accident, you don't want to look, you know you shouldn't but you can't help it, you are compelled to slow down the car and stare. I was compelled to plow through this book. I was that kid at dinner with their parents with a book hidden under the table, it was just THAT good. Just when I was about to give up, down to my very last chapters the book crescendoed into one of the most feel good endings of all time. Anyone that could pull themselves through death of a parent, childhood prostitution, drug addiction, gang banging, homelessness and what most would consider just some badly dealt cards of life and come out on top--SHINING; that's my kinda story. Did I mention it's all true? If you are thinking you have it bad, are too old, too poor, to whatever. STOP. Read this story and get on with your life. Your dreams are waiting for you...
P.S. If you have any books that will change my life or make me cry I am all ears...

Disclaimer...she went through ALOT the kind of stuff most people rather turn a blind eye too and act like they dont know it's happening so prepare to be shocked, and hopefully inspired.

AWESOME GIVEAWAY ALERT!!

2009-03-12T08:09:00.000-07:00

While on my daily blog reads I realized that for weeks now, Miss B. (of Blah Blah Blahg) has been giving away some amazingly awesome stuff from various artists who donate their work to help remind people that life is (regardless of how it currently looks) beautiful. This month, they’re featuring the works of accessory designers. All you have to do is answer the featured artist’s question in the comments. Super easy! Now go! Head over to the THE BRIGHT SIDE and win!

Let me intoduce you to my first creation...it's a little biit funky and ALOT me

2009-03-09T20:26:00.000-07:00

made this one too...has nothing to do with my theme but enjoy

Our signature drink

2009-03-08T13:04:00.000-07:00

Mr. D is Cuban and we love the cool clean look of mojitos and its tie to his culture so are thinking and hoping to have it as our signature drink. During our research we've found there are countless renditions of the same basic recipe. {ie. Strawberry, Raspberry, Pear, Coconut, Mango, etc.}

For your drinking pleasure here's the classic recipe:

1 part rum

3 parts club soda

12 mint leaves

1/2 lime

1/2 part sugar

add mint sugar and lime together and muddle, add rum and top off with club soda. Add mint, lime wheel or sugar cane for garnish :)

http://www.bacardimojito.com/home/default.aspx

I also recommend trying the Strawberry Mojito at Applebees. It's awesome and HUGE! I dont eat there, have never like it but went there once with friends and that one drink makes it worth the drive!

Bouquet ideas

2009-03-08T12:32:00.000-07:00

this is my absolute LOVE since I'm leaning towards green black and white as my theme...

white anenomes with black centers with French tulips and sweet peas tucked in

ranunculus or peonies
Roses and some sort of cactustulips (this was my 1st choice)spider mums...maybe as an accenta whole lotta flowers!and nope, I have no intentions of throwing it so keep your eyes off my bouquet!

Things that are better than wedding planning

2009-03-08T12:07:00.000-07:00

So it's not a joke. Planning sucks...I dont know what I'm doing, I've never planned a party before, never dealt with vendors and am dishing out money left and right and keeping my fingers crossed. And because my funds are limited it's even harder because you need to cross reference every single detail to make sure you're getting your monies worth... so with that said I've complied a list of things that are better than planning a wedding:

Getting stitches

Getting a root canal with no anasthesia

Giving birth naturally without an epidural {according to the latest Bridezilla}

Forgetting the stove is hot and burning your forearm {yup happened to me}

Falling off the bed and landing on your head {yup and my neck still hurts}

Stubbing your toe and cracking your nail {uh-huh check that off my list too}

Getting in a car accident and having stitches done on your lip {not a pretty site}

Getting knots yanked out of your hair {story of my childhood}

Getting a bug caught in your eye {yuck! and owwww}

Trying to lift your 200+ lb fiance and hurting your back {I'm not one to be outdown so I tried it}

Missing the barstool after too many drinks

Trying to bleach black dye out of your hair and burning your scalp {that made me cry and this has too!}

Something going down the wrong pipe while eating

Getting your finger caught in a door

Getting kicked in the face {my nose still hurts}

Trying to run when you're severly out of shape

brain freezes!!

and finally really really bad cramps

I think you get the idea...this sucks and I really really really hope in the end it will all be worth the stress, tears and headaches. So did I miss anything??