I do - my wedding blog

2011-01-31T15:25:00.000-08:00

I'm not really updating this anymore but I have come across 2 disappointing (for me!) links in the last 2 days

First up, Emmeline Bride - nice handmade and real weddings

And then Vera Wang goes and decides to do proper affordable off the peg at David's Bridal

Enjoy!

My outfit

2010-12-17T14:17:00.000-08:00

I now realise why so many wedding blogs disappear so soon after the wedding. Suddenly my time and inclination seemed to vanish, not exactly sure why.

Anyway, getting back to putting together my day for you, I get to my outfit.

My dress was made by my mum, which was so special. It meant that it was completely unique and exactly what I wanted. We had had it specially designed by a friend of a friend who was studying fashion design. This, for me, was the most fun part. I had been to try on other dresses (1,2,3) so I had a good idea what I was looking for.

We then had the drawing made into a pattern by a professional pattern cutter - this bit wasn't cheap. If we had been a bit clever we could probably have utilised an existing pattern as I wasn't having anything that out of the ordinary.

Once we had the finished toile and pattern we set about chopping up the actual fabric and lining etc. I helped cut out some bits, but I left most of this to my mum who is much more experienced - and she has the sewing machine at her house!

I enjoyed cutting out the strips of netting to go under the train. This was even better when they had the unexpected effect of creating a feature out of themselves when I hitched up the train in the evening, as you can see in the pic on the left.

So, the finished article is best illustrated in this picture (that's my husband in the middle shaking hands with his best man - we'd just stepped out the church, which explains the crazy look on my face!). It had a full skirt with train, corsetted bodice, buttoned up the back, capped sleeves, and ruched skirt.

My veil had little pearls on it which matched those in my necklace, borrowed from my mum (it's her grandma's).

For the day I had plain cream court shoes, but I got my way and had blue shoes for the evening - and they were sparkly! I knew I wouldn't last in heels all day. Just as well, they managed to rub despite all the wearing in. Bridesmaid to the rescue with blister plasters.

I mentioned my tiara in a previous post, and even up to the day I still wasn't completely sure about it. I felt it was one of those decisions I had made without thinking and was slightly concerned that it wasn't what I'd been thinking of. But having spent more hours than sensible looking for alternatives and just coming up with variations on a theme, I decided there were other things which were more important - my sanity for one.

One of my favourite photos

Top photo from one of my pals, others from our photographer Sam Kesteven

2010-07-10T12:08:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to post a pic of the present J got me on our wedding day

Image from Rob Ryan

Part 4 - reception 2

2010-06-12T15:20:00.000-07:00

It has been nearly a month, I'm stuck right back into work, my name is changed on some things, but people are still talking about the wedding when they see us.

Back to the story...

As the evening guests started to arrive and we has our coffee and homemade tablet, the men did the speeches. Starting with my dad, who can be a bit of a loose cannon when it comes to public speaking, especially I thought, when he was a bit emotional. But it was suitably funny, soppy and full of advice (lists was the key thing). He managed to embarrass me by mentioning my secret shame from when I was 11 (I failed my cycling proficiency test!) while also make me feel like his special little girl.

J's speech was very funny, and I have the scrap of paper he made his notes on in my box of wedding bits. But it was also poignant as he raised a glass to absent friends.

The best men did a double act which worked perfectly with one doing the funny stuff and the other playing the straight man. They even managed to rib me with a joke about a silly comment I made some months back and had forgotten about.

After welcoming the evening guests we stepped onto the dance floor for our first dance. We danced to a cover of Elvis' Can't help falling in love with you by the Eels. Suitably classic but also suitably obscure and us. We asked the best men to dance with the bridesmaids, my parents and my brother to dance with J's mum, and for them to join us after a few bars into the song, which was lovely.
The dancing then proceeded through the evening with music from J's friend as DJ. This was a great idea as he knew what we like so well. We had a great mix of indie classics, motown, 60s and dancefloor fillers. No cheese was the rule!

The evening was so much fun, catching up with people, having photos, chatting and never having a dry glass. But it ended and we were taken to our proper black cab to take us to our hotel.

J had booked the hotel and I had the choice whether to know where we were going - but I chose to have a surprise. We went to Clerkenwell to The Rookery hotel, where a chilled bottle of champagne was waiting for us. It is on a pedestrianised street so the taxi had to drop us at the end of the road, and people were looking at us as we walked past in our finery. Someone shouted 'will you marry me?!' 'Too late mate' was J's response.

The next day we caught up with some friends for brunch, opened presents, and had a good read of all the lovely comments in our guest book, which my sister had organised. Sunday was such a chilled happy day, basking in our new found situation.

Part 3 - the reception 1

2010-06-01T14:30:00.000-07:00

After our mad bus trip from the church to the venue - which got a lot of waves and a few bus geek photographers (who knows how they found out about it!) - we arrived to a round of applause from museum patrons, and were handed yummy peach bellinis.

We then got the photos out of the way, largely painless, and even had a group photo of everyone. The photographer made everyone shout "sex!" instead of cheese. My shock will probably be evident on my face in the photo.

J and I were then taken off for a few minutes to do some shots of us, including by the walrus and the totem pole.

The sun was shining and the drinks were flowing. I was pleased with my mingling skills!
We had canapes (kudos to the staff who always made sure J and I got them first).

Everyone was then invited to sit for dinner by our toastmaster aka one of our friends from Uni. On our way to our seats we cut our croquembouche using the toastmaster's Sgian Dubh.

I had been so looking forward to our food since the tasting, and we got plenty of compliments on our choices. Our wine choices went well too.

Photo by one of our guests

Blogs which have kept me going

2010-05-25T13:57:00.000-07:00

I have read a lot of magazines, websites and particularly blogs as I have gone through these last 20 or so months.
Some of the blogs have come and gone, but some I have stuck with. I thought I would share:

A Practical Wedding - if you want straight talking this is where to go. Keeps everything in perspective. This one is staying in my Google reader for the future.
Craft my bride - this is the blog of a soon to be bride who is diying her wedding.
Rock My Wedding - It is great to see a British wedding blog flourishing like this one.
Temple of Groom - a groom's blog
With this ring - pretty stuff and good ideas. Always quick to link to interesting things!
Project wedding blog - whole host of diy stuff
Ruffled - nice vintage weddings
iDIY - more diy
snippet and ink - inspiring inspiration boards
Wiley Valentine - invites and pretty stuff
100 Layer Cake - more pretties
Lucky me - inspiration boards and pretty stuff
Once Wed blog - a good mixture of different types of weddings
Something old something new - a personal take on weddings
jo my goodness (great name!) - cocktails and lots of links
Style me pretty - lots of posts but worth getting through them for the beautiful ideas

There have been others and I'm sure there are some I have visited and never noted down, but these are the ones which stuck with me to the end.

Part 2 - the ceremony

2010-05-24T13:37:00.000-07:00

We arrived at the church slightly early so parked up the road a bit and Dad jumped out to go and check everything was hunky-dory. This was the first moment when I was really nervous, and as always when I'm nervous I needed the loo. The same had happened on Friday evening as we pulled up to the church so my bridesmaids had thought it was very funny to buy me some incontinence pads.

Anyway, everything was fine, and the men were told to go and take their seats in the front row. We pulled the bus forward, and had a couple of minutes to grab some photos with the buses, like a traditional father-daughter photo plus one of me on the back of the Routemaster (one of the key ones on my list for the day).

Then it was time to go. Mum said a quick prayer before we walked up towards the church to be met by the vicar,and then she headed inside. I had managed to get my shoe stuck between paving slabs on the path but this was a minor hitch, it did relieve my nerves somewhat as we all laughed.

We lined up by the door and I could see a couple of friends in the back row, suddenly the nerves hit. As the music started and we took our first step I had a sudden lurch in my stomach and thought I was going to cry. I was glad of my veil, and very glad I looked up to see J waiting for me at the end of the aisle. I managed to hold it together although through the first hymn my legs were shaking so much I thought I must have looked ridiculous.

The service was lovely and was very personal. It was great to have a vicar who had got to know us over the last couple of years, so he was able to relate to the people who were there with us.

In no time at all we were pronounced man and wife and kissing to a round of applause from all our friends and family. A lovely moment.

I didn't see but people keep telling me how almost everyone was crying at some point in the service, even my normally very together dad! For some people it seemed that it was the music that did it; I wasn't aware when we picked it, but one of our hymns was my great-grandma's favourite so this was rather poignant for some people, plus my mum was set off by my processional music which was the same as she had, Pachelbel's Canon in D.

We were not being followed by another wedding so made the most of a bit of time in the church vestibule catching up with everyone. From the photos I have seen I was looking rather crazy and certainly felt a bit like that too. I was quite speechless and so happy. It is also very strange being in the situation where you know (just about) everyone in the room and they all want to talk to you.

Just as we were doing this someone pointed outside - another bus. This time a Maltese bus, due to J's heritage, which had been renovated and shipped over! So our full fleet of 3 buses was ready to take us to our venue, J and I in the Maltese bus, the family in the green bus and the rest of the guests on the Routemaster...

--- more ---
It's funny what you include and don't when writing up something like this.
I thought I would also add that the rest of the music was lovely - we had the traditional Orthodox Cherubic hymn when signing the register, and we left the church to the Grand March from Verdi's Aida.
The readings were done by my grandma and J's uncle, which was really lovely.

Last Saturday

2010-05-22T14:53:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday all went wonderfully. I could put that down to perfect planning from us, but I think in fact it was a combination of planning, good suppliers, help from friends and family and a bit of good luck.

Firstly, the weather was lovely. After it was rather cold and overcast all week, the day was almost completely dry (apart from 2 minutes when leaving my flat) and despite a few clouds it was relatively sunny, perfect for hanging around outside as planned. I didn't put my cardi on until I was leaving at 11pm.

Next, nothing went noticeable wrong, or at all really.

So, a bit about the day. I'll start from the beginning...

We had had a busy week, with various people staying and enjoying our week off. There was some organising to do but mainly we filled the time catching up with friends, going to gigs and collecting people from stations. There were a couple of minor issues (like family illness causing a couple of late drop outs), hence the post but generally there was nothing to report.

By the time it got to Friday we were organised and I managed to fit in a couple of hours of me time. I would heartily recommend this!
In the evening we had the rehearsal at the church and then J and I headed our own ways. This was only marred by my little bro, who had major delivery duties on Saturday morning, being an hour and a quarter late (i.e. missed it completely) despite seemingly being less than a mile away through most of that time!
Once we had collected the beer and got the cars packed up we got over that and headed back to my flat with my bridesmaids. We ordered takeaway - quite healthy Turkish, yum! - drank champagne, gossiped and then watched a film.

I woke up on Saturday morning feeling calm and got myself into the shower. We headed to the hairdressers in the sun and were done in there quite quickly. In the end I really liked my tiara, my hair was really natural and the tiara added to the outfit perfectly.

In the meantime the florist had been to the flat (early, while noone was there! Luckily the flowers were left with a note in the hallway) and as it was about 11.30 we had plenty of time to get ready. An early lunch and then we started to get sorted.

Somehow the next hour disappeared and at 12.50 my dad called to say he was outside. I was still wearing my jeans and the bms were half dressed. 'No rush' he said, so we continued to get ready.

I must say I'm glad the photographer wasn't at the flat while we were getting ready on Saturday morning. The place was a bit of a mess with cases on the floor and the kitchen full of flowers, plus with people coming and going, but it was so good to be in familiar surroundings while getting ready. For one thing I'm sure I would have forgotten something!

Finally, I got dressed and after a couple of quick photos we went downstairs. Putting my shoes on at the door (I live on the second floor, I couldn't cope on the stairs!) I waited for my dad with an umbrella. A couple of people walked past and did a double take!

Dad collected me and walked me to my transport - a vintage bus, the first of a collection on the day (more about that later, the picture shows the one I arrived on) and once we were all aboard we headed off to the church. It was so nice travelling with my parents and bridesmaids, and I enjoyed the reactions of people as we drove past.

Next up - the church

Just back from honeymoon...

2010-05-21T14:57:00.000-07:00

I realise the post I put up last week was less than happy. Apart from a couple of short episodes the preparation week was good fun, with friends and relatives around us, a couple of gigs and even time for a manicure*.

The day itself went wonderfully, and our few days away have been the most relaxing ever.

I'll post more as I have time.

*BTW a week on, and my nails still look great, that's what comes of going to Nails Inc, courtesy of a birthday present from my friends. I went for a pastel pink called Birdcage Walk (although I can't find that one on the website)

It's wedding time

2010-05-15T14:00:00.000-07:00

Right now, I'm getting married!

Image from Ryan Feerer

2010-05-13T15:24:00.001-07:00

Feeling slightly stressed today. The 'everything's ok' facade has fallen.

This has the feeling of a runaway train, which I am not at all in control of.

But chief BM had words of wisdom to calm me down.

T-1 week

2010-05-08T10:52:00.000-07:00

A week to go. At exactly 2pm I just happened to be driving past the church, which was really exciting.

Well, I've finished work and have just made my final to-do list. It now fits on one page and has everything allocated to a day and person.

The more complicated bit seems to be working out who is where at what time, and who is staying at our flat. I think we have different people each night. I might try and make it like a sleepover in the lounge to save on changing the beds!

Excited!

2010-05-06T14:40:00.001-07:00

I think I had underestimated how excited I would be, at just over a week to go.

I did however have a wobble (my first proper one) earlier in the week, but I think that was a mixture of feeling generally emotional and wedding worries.

My to do list is not that long, and tomorrow is my last day at work. So feeling happy!

Also, feeling much better about my tiara after my hair appointment today

It's May!

2010-05-01T16:08:00.000-07:00

I didn't realise I had gone quiet. It's not that I've been run off my feet busy or anything...I just forgot to write.

So, 2 weeks to go, and we're feeling quite organised. I keep getting packages in the post containing interesting and useful things for the big day. Yesterday it was peach puree for the drinks reception bellinis,and today my special etsy necklaces for the girls.

We're not really feeling stressed - but this seems to be what everyone expects from me! I guess I'm just chilled out about it, focussed on the bigger picture and super organised.

Today, we went to scope out the reception venue again to check where we fancy having our photos done. It was quite sunny and it seemed so lovely. They were just setting up for another wedding which made it seem even more real.

We picked up our rings last weekend, and J wore his home just to make sure he was going to get used to it.

My dress is so close to being ready. Plus my veil and tiara arrived today. I need to do some persuading myself of my headdress, I'm still only 99% behind it. But then I tell myself I'm worrying over nothing.

My mum has also been great (on top of making the dress) and made a start on 5 cravat/scrunchie ties.

I think we are nearly there. It's just a case of paying for everything now

Spotted: Souris Mariage

2010-04-16T16:42:00.000-07:00

I just spotted this and thought I would reblog it here
Find the original here: "

No:

1. My perfect day

2. A fairy-tale wedding

3. Best of all

4. Better than anything

5. The best day of my life

6. The best ever

Yes:

1. Fun

2. Personal

3. Meaningful

4. Sweet

5. Celebratory

6. Us

"

I completely agree!

One month to go

2010-04-15T15:36:00.000-07:00

Only one month to go, and I'm feeling chilled and relaxed (yes, both).
I had a meeting with the caterer yesterday, so I'm happy that all those bits are in order. I'm just going to have a bash at a table plan

The little things left can be done, or not, I don't think it matters now

Big things left:

pick up rings
finalise ceremony wording/ prayers
shoes for J
pick up veil etc
get flowers organised

Another productive day

2010-04-10T17:01:00.000-07:00

I went down today with bms in tow so they could try their dresses. Man, do they look great! The colour is excellent, such a springlike shade, but nice and bold, and suits them both so well. Once they have had a few final adjustments, they will be done

While we were at the shop (because they are so helpful) I thought I'd have a look at veils and hair pieces. It's all very well trawling the internet for these things but it is very difficult to imagine what they might feel like on, as they are not things I am used to wearing.

I tried about 10 veils, all different lengths and with different edges and detailing. I have gone for a wrist length ivory veil with pearls through it. I didn't go for one with a heavy edge as it would distract from the dress, and it appeared to blend in better rather than be the feature in itself. The pearls just add a bit of 'special' without being too blingy. Plus they will go with my great-grandma's pearls I am borrowing from my mum for the day.

Once I tried this I had to try on some hair pieces just to complete my outfit. I had said no to a tiara from day 1, but the hairband type pieces just didn't look obvious enough. The one I have gone for is a bit like this...

It was really nice for mum that the ladies in the shop complemented my dress. She has been expressing concerns that people will think it looks 'too homemade', much to our protestations, but I think this has sorted her out now!

We got a load of extra fabric just in case, so we are going to make ruche ties for the guys. The ties they have ordered are really not going to match, or they are going to look too green (which would never do, football-wise!). Another fun task for the week before the wedding.

I also popped to the jewellers and he said our rings will be ready next week.

After that I had a make up trial, and so did sis and mum. I'll write more about that tomorrow.

The only annoyance today was further issues with printing (now jam jar labels), that's the most frustrating bit, but I'll get it sorted eventually. It meant I didn't get to finish the favours, looks like I will be doing this later.

Gift list open

2010-04-08T12:00:00.000-07:00

Our gift list is now open and it is J who is obsessively checking it.

I'm still finding it weird that people are buying us gifts; like I don't deserve them.

I am happy to say though that it is some of the items I added (cake stand, sewing box) which my friends have gone for early on :-)

RSVPs

2010-04-07T14:51:00.000-07:00

The RSVP deadline has passed and we have now (almost) got official numbers for the wedding breakfast (why is it breakfast? I usually don't eat lamb and profiteroles for brekkie!).

But some people haven't replied, so need tactful chasing

Other tasks for this week include finalising flowers and sorting out the delivery of the croquembouche. We also need to order DJ equipment and I have a busy day on Saturday planned with my bridesmaids.

Pressies

2010-04-03T16:27:00.000-07:00

My sister got me a box full of presents at my hen do, each one had a label on:

For tomorrow morning - hangover teabags
Because I know you will need them - tissues
Maltese wedding favours - Malteasers
For that Bridezilla moment - chocolate chill pill
Something old to stick with tradition - sixpence
Your wish is our command - magic wand
We'll treat you like a princess - tiara
Something to help you relax before the big day - bath bomb
To help you survive the big day - blister plasters and party feet
Something to have a giggle over - Victorian marriage advice book
A money saving idea...grow your own bouquet - sunflower seeds
Courtesy of the Horniman Museum - wind up snail (I HATE snails)
Something blue - Rangers garter

This last one was the best and will be a lovely surprise on the day

I was also given some rude bits from my friends, to make me feed uncomfortable

Plus, when I got home one of my friends had sent me some flowers (from the lovely Jane Packer)

Printing

2010-03-31T14:34:00.000-07:00

I'm just writing this as I print my evening invite inserts. I've just spent the last 3 hours making the invites themselves.

Now it's double sided time - what a nightmare! I've already gone through this once with the full invites, I should have learned

Update - I think I have finally cracked it. Little did I know that printers are not built to print centrally on pages and have a trailing edge which is larger. This means you have to print off centre.
How stupid is that

These WILL go out tomorrow (well, the work ones anyway)

Hen do

2010-03-29T15:17:00.000-07:00

On Saturday it was my hen do, organised brilliantly by my bridesmaids. My pals (including my mum and J's mum) all managed to keep quiet and the day's entertainment was a complete surprise to me. I was just told to be at the tube station at a particular time dressed smartly, and I'd be taken along to the first venue.

The first venue was the Connaught hotel, where we had afternoon tea. So delicious, especially as I've not been eating treats through Lent. Starting off with champagne, then moving on to unending tea (my choice a white tea called silver needle) with sandwiches, scones (apricot ones - great idea) and homemade jam, and plenty of cakes. So filling! Afterwards the staff brought me a plate which said congratulations in chocolate sauce and a choccie on the side - yum.

My sister had put together a box of presents for me, including a tiara and magic wand to wear for the day, as well as useful bits for the day like blister plasters, a sixpence and hangover tea. My other bm had got sparkly cabaret masks for everyone to wear.

After a stop off for some cocktails at a bar, we then went on to Kitsch Cabaret at Madame JoJo's (appropriate name!), which was great fun and had everyone singing along and clapping - even the mums.

They took us to a club from there where we boogied the night away to cheesy tunes.

It was so nice to see all my friends together in one place. It was slightly scary when people were saying goodbye and they said 'next time we see you will be at the church!'!

This week

2010-03-21T16:14:00.000-07:00

Seems this blog is coming down to weekly summaries of what I've been up to, now that it's getting closer. This is partly because I have to be more focussed and cannot get distracted by all the other weddings/ inspiration out there, and second, I don't have any more time.

Anyway, this week has entailed

another dress fitting - it's nearly there, having doubts about the sash now as the waistband as it is doesn't really give itself to having one,
a meeting with the vicar to sort out ceremony details like wording, readings etc,
a trip to Ikea to buy candle holders for the reception venue,
tried on mum's Grandmother's pearls, which I am borrowing for the wedding. They are so pretty.
decided against using mum's veil - it's too white for my dress
started cutting out lots of circles of fabric for the jam lids
got a second florists quote, slightly more expensive but includes hire of vases for centrepieces, and I suspect a little more artistic flair than the other florist

This week is going to involve more circle cutting (only about 80 to go) and fretting about my hen night dress not arriving in time.

Productive day today

2010-03-13T17:29:00.000-08:00

Another dress fitting, with shoes this time. I got these ones - the same as I had last year for being a bridesmaid. Boring, perhaps but they were comfy and comfort is key.

I went shopping as well today with little sis AKA bridesmaid. We managed to get her some shoes, pashminas for both bridesmaids, a hairband for the other bridesmaid and ribbon for the bunting and favours.

In addition, I have priced up candles/ vases/ holders in the bargain basement that is Asda home. I'll be able to do a comparison after a trip to Ikea next weekend.

J's away on his stag as we speak, which makes me slightly nervous - it always seemed a long way in the future!

Image from Pink

Hen night dress

2010-03-10T13:51:00.000-08:00

I don't know what the plan is for my hen do. I know who is on the guest list and I know where I need to meet everyone. I also know I need to dress up.

I saw this dress ages ago in the wonderful new Anthropologie store in London, but it was just too expensive to buy for no reason.

It then vanished from their website, around the time I started looking for something to wear for the do - typical!

Having dreamed about it for the last week or so, and having checked with my sis that it looked suitable, I spent ages looking for it online, and managed to find out there were a couple left but in American sizes. I have no idea what size I would be.

I went along to the store tonight to see if it was about. Hoping against hope that it would be on a sale rail.
It wasn't, it was still on the main shop floor - boo! I tried it on (I know, dangerous!) and it was lovely, although was getting quite worked up in the fitting room, with one of those dress-stuck-with-arms-in-the-air moments until I found the zip (phew).

I put it on hold until tomorrow and then just about ran home to see if it was still available online. And hooooooooray it was. I've just ordered it, slightly cheaper than it was here, although not as cheap as if I had gone and got it in the sale in an American store. But I'm not cheering too much until I have it in my grubby paws.

Planning on wearing it with a yellow cardi and shoes. Possibly need to get a bag too...

UPDATE - I got it, had to pick it up from the post office but it is now in my possession. Hurrah!

Image from Anthropologie

Gift list

2010-03-09T13:52:00.000-08:00

We went to John Lewis last week to select items for our gift list. It is as fun as everyone tells you, like you are on a spree! But I flitted between emotions feeling at one minute like I was actually going to walk out with everything we selected to the next when I realised we were actually going to leave the shop empty handed...for now.

We were quite organised and had made a list of what we were looking for before we went. This was just as well as I could tell that otherwise we would have scanned everything.

A couple of days later we added more stuff online. I can tell it is going to be quite addictive watching as people buy items and we have to keep an eye on what is left for others.

Thinking about what people might buy/ spend is an intriguing part, especially as some of our friends are not married yet and are likely to think of this as an indicator of what they might expect in return (not that our friends are that mercenary!).

Although I sometimes feel it is a bit weird that people are buying us gifts, and it certainly is not the reason we are doing all this, I can't wait for it to open.

Image from stock.xchng user kalico

Flowers

2010-03-07T15:27:00.000-08:00

Finally got some movement on flowers, after being fobbed off by 2 florists - one didn't call me when they said they would after not keeping an appointment (unreliable!) and the other kept telling me to come back 'after Valentines', 'after Mother's day'... but then they tell me they won't deliver as far as the venue. Pah!

But I have managed to visit two great florists this week who have been enthusiastic and helpful.
I'm just waiting for a final quote from one before I have to make a decision on which to use.

So, we've decided on a mixture of mini sunflowers, lilies, and gerberas, with some white tiny daisy things (not sure what they're called).

I also like black eyed susan if the gerberas aren't the right colours.

Centre pieces will look a bit like this, but with the candle in a hurricane vase

Favours

2010-03-01T12:21:00.000-08:00

We have decided to do mini jars of marmalade as favours. They will also double as our table place names, sitting on the place setting.

Here's some inspiration:

I've already got some fabric for the tops, which I will also use for bunting, but I'll have to get some more.
Four boxes of jam jars are ready and waiting at my parents' house, and we're planning to make the marmalade over Easter weekend - should be fun!

Images from the knot, once wed, and Design sponge

Update: 11 weeks to go

2010-02-28T12:21:00.000-08:00

I completely missed the 100 days to go, the 3 months to go and any other significant days from which I could count down. And now we are in the final weeks, I'm glad I had a productive weekend to stave off any worries!

We managed to get our banns organised at our parish church (major legal requirement!) and I went for a dress fitting with my mum.
My dad says he has all the transport organised, so we can check that off the list.

Some slight concerns about no-one having had any info about my hen night which is in 3 weeks, but there's little I can do as it's all a surprise for me. My sister is on it, so I guess I don't need to worry.

This week will involve:
evening invite making
visiting florists
buying shoes

Croquembouche

2010-02-25T14:59:00.000-08:00

Finally got our Croquembouche ordered after one cancelled order.

We went to where we should have gone to start with, Patisserie Valerie, as that is where we saw them in the window. They like to hide the fact they do delivery of wedding cakes.

It'll be like this minus the fruit.

Looking forward to it - yum!
Just need to sort out the sword for lopping off the top

It's a traditional French wedding cake, and usually the bride and groom smash the top while the bridesmaids hold the tablecloth to catch the pieces. Struggling to find a picture of people actually doing that though!

Rings bought

2010-02-13T12:12:00.000-08:00

I forgot to post about our wedding rings

We bought them at a little independent shop in my home town. It's just one guy who makes them all there.
They were cheaper than we had seen in London.

Our choices are a bit like these:
This is James' (although in yellow gold)

And mine

Tasting

2010-02-12T15:51:00.000-08:00

We went for our tasting yesterday, with 2 bottles of wine in hand (which went wonderfully!) and it was all so good.
Which is really good news. I wasn't concerned that it wouldn't be, but there's always a niggle when you're paying so much.

Can't wait to eat it all again!

We also asked about our cheese table, which will be the 'evening food'. We wanted to check it wasn't just going to be a hunk of cheddar. As soon as he said the cheese is going to come from Neal's Yard I relaxed.

Compliment

2010-02-07T11:56:00.001-08:00

The first invites have arrived with people this week and we've had some really good feedback.
One friend we saw said 'they must have cost you a pretty penny', to which I replied 'well, two weekends work and a computer printer', and let's just say she was surprised they weren't professionally produced.

That's a compliment!

Invites: all done

2010-02-01T15:01:00.000-08:00

We finished all the invites yesterday and they were posted off today.
Kudos to all the family who dug in to help out (even if it was just cups of tea).
This was them all ready to go.

And below is what they look like when they are opened.

On the front we have the wedding date in Roman numerals, to go with the sundial theme (because of the collection of sundials at the museum).
The pockets were hand made out of ivory card, and the edges touched with a blue ink pad. The pockets were stuck closed with removable glue dots.

The inserts and invite text were printed on ivory paper. Then there was an RSVP card in the pack too.
The names and envelopes were handwritten, and we added record cover stamps.
I can't wait for the responses to start rolling in.

photos from my mobile

Bridesmaids

2010-01-29T15:44:00.000-08:00

I updated the bridesmaid dress picture so it is the right colour. It'll have an ivory sash, but I'm not that good on photoshop!

Also, do you ever have a day where you just search for a picture but you can't remember where you saw it!? Irritating...

Spotted: pretty bride with pretty dress

2010-01-28T14:58:00.000-08:00

I so want to look like this on the day...

Image by Nancy Jagelka from (via A Practical Wedding)

This weekend

2010-01-24T16:16:00.000-08:00

This was a big weekend, with plenty of stuff getting crossed off the big to-do list:

got final pattern and fabric etc for my dress
discussed transport and logistics with my parents - we will definitely have a bus to transport people to the church and to/from the reception
got them and my grandparents booked into a hotel
decided on favours and bought some bits to go towards these (more soon)
got started on invites (why are printers so irritating, why do they never print things the size you want and only run out of ink when you are doing something important?!)
bought bridesmaid dresses (big yay!)

This is it:

From Hilary Morgan
Not in this colour though, it will be blue with an ivory sash (so the opposite way round to mine).
It was not too stressful getting the dresses, despite my concerns with both bridesmaids telling me they are not the easiest when it comes to clothes. I thought I was going to have some major self esteem issues on my hands.
But, both girls, independently, went up to this dress first in the shop, and remained happy once they tried it on.
Phew!
We went to another shop but didn't see anything which grabbed us (plus all the dresses were in tiny sizes so we couldn't really try them on) and we kept saying 'it's not as nice as the first dress!'. So we went back and ordered them.
We'll also get 2m extra fabric in the blue, to make a halterneck strap for one bridesmaid, my sash and some cravats for the boys. I'm waiting for my swatch of fabric, but in the mean time I've got plenty else to do.

Shoe love

2010-01-19T14:37:00.000-08:00

I wasn't planning on spending this much on shoes, but these from Rachel Simpson are lovely.

Needs some more thought...

Image from Rachel Simpson

via Rock my wedding

Wedding prep day

2010-01-18T12:45:00.000-08:00

Very helpfully, our church runs a wedding prep day in January each year. This lets us sort out all the paperwork, meet the vicar (which wasn't so useful for us as we already know them, but for some people who don't usually attend this is very important), meet the musical director and have a bit of a marriage preparation session.

It was also great to meet other couples from the local area who are getting married in the next few months. We even met the couple who are getting married right before us (i.e. at 12:30 on the same day) at our church. This means we can share the flowers in the church with them.

Although we didn't actually sort out much, we came away feeling much more prepared - so the day fulfilled its purpose

4 months to go

2010-01-17T14:28:00.000-08:00

It may appear that I have been thinking a lot and not actually doing anything - which is partly true! But I also have a 3 page to do list stuck on the back of the kitchen door, where I will see it everyday, telling me what I still have to do.

We have managed to sort out quite a bit in the last couple of weeks though:

favours - home made marmalade
bridesmaid dress shopping - next weekend
wedding prep day at church done - more about that shortly
dress toile tried on (it's really getting there!)
music and hymns for ceremony decided
readers and readings decided
meeting with vicar booked
discussed my hair with hairdressers (so glad it is simple)
organised date for tasting

The main things left are making my dress, getting bridesmaids kitted out and getting all the guys to get theirs booked, plus the cake/ croquembouche, making the invites and flowers. So not that much?!!??!

Blues

2010-01-11T12:39:00.000-08:00

I popped to the shops today to look round the sales, as I hadn't yet - waste of time. I should have known, as there was nothing good before Christmas.

Nevertheless, it was slightly productive. I went to Debenhams to check out the colour of tie the boys are having. I didn't trust the colour in the brouchure to be realistic.

But how to check the colour?! I took some paint swatches I had picked up a while back (for crafting) and luckily one matched.

So this is it - not a bad match to reality. On left is catalogue colour and on right the paint chip.

Dress trying on

2010-01-10T14:39:00.000-08:00

My mum battled through the snow yesterday to come and see me and help to fit the toile of my wedding dress - the mockup which is key to making the pattern.

It is already looking just like I imagined, even while it is made out of thin cotton and doesn't do up at the back.

We got a bit over excited and I put on the hairband I had when a bridesmaid last year (which I might still use) plus mum's veil, which I'm planning on using. It's a bit long and I'm sure I'll trip over it, but we got the idea. It all seems even more real now.

I would post a picture, but I'm not ready to flash my underwear on the internet just yet!

Stamps

2009-12-29T15:43:00.000-08:00

I found some possible stamps for the invites (well the non-international ones). I liked the idea of using older stamps, but it is just too fiddly. These album cover ones come out in January and we would be happy to use most of them on the envelopes.

The design classics stamps could add another layer of 'London' to the thing.

Mums

2009-12-20T13:51:00.000-08:00

Both our mum's managed to buy their wedding outfits last week, and so very nearly bought the same thing! It was something I hadn't foreseen, but should have guessed would happen.

We had said to both of them to keep their eyes open for things, and not to worry too much about the other as they shop in very different places usually and wouldn't pick up the same things.

It seems that it is all ok, and that, although they have their outfits from the same shop, they are not the same - but will instead co-ordinate, which I think is the best outcome we could have hoped for.

Giant games

2009-12-19T11:39:00.000-08:00

I had an idea that we could get some outside games for people to play with before dinner. Obviously this is only fine if it is not raining, plus we're at a museum, so we quite fancy just going for a wander in there. J wants a photo with Mr Walrus there - he's huge, the walrus I mean - it's over 100 years old.

I think the choices, if we bother, are dominos, stacking tower and connect 4
Ebay seems to have loads

Something to think about...

Dress first glimpse

2009-12-18T13:07:00.000-08:00

J if you are reading - GO AWAY!

I had an email from my dress pattern cutter saying my pattern and toile were almost done, plus some photos!

It really brightened up an otherwise rubbish day

Image is mine

Bridesmaid dresses

2009-12-09T14:42:00.000-08:00

My sister did good and sent me a nice long email packed full of dress ideas which were exactly what I was thinking and with litttle prompting!

She only looked at one site: Dessy, so all of these are from there

I'm hoping that the bridal party will look a bit like this:

Top images from Dessy, second image from Yvonne Wong (via MadebyGirl)

Gift lists revisited

2009-12-08T15:31:00.000-08:00

After conducting a straw poll amongst our friends and asking our parents to do the same, we came to a simple conclusion - just go to John Lewis

It's the sensible option, everyone can order from them, and there's no issue with people being offended by being asked to contribute to a pot rather than choosing an item.

To do...er...done

2009-12-07T14:17:00.000-08:00

Well gosh, yesterday was a bit busy in terms of ticking things off the list, and I hardly lifted a finger!

My mum was knitting my shrug and kept calling me through to check the sleeves were the right length
My sister has a surprise she isn't doing very well keeping quiet about - it's something to do with a guest book, so one less thing for me to do
My brother has a box of umbrellas stashed away
I now have the font we want for our invites, J wrote text for the invite inserts and we know what size they need to be. I'll spend the next couple of evenings on photoshop sorting those out
I have created a full, nothing left off to do list, with deadlines - just to stress everyone out. I just need to buy some sticky fixers to put it up now

Phew

My Bubbles

2009-11-30T13:34:00.000-08:00

We just got back from a Monday night trip to the supermarket, but this time I rolled in the door back at the flat with a bit of a swagger.

We just scored all our wedding champagne for less than half price. Quality stuff for about £13 a bottle!

We got some funny looks at the counter, it looked like we were going to have a GREAT Monday night.

Image from stock.xchng user vierdrie

Suited and booted

2009-11-28T08:34:00.000-08:00

J has gone, with his best man, to get his suit fitted today and organise the hire. He was really excited about it! I have not taken any responsibility for this bit of organising, all I need to know is what colour ties/ cravats they go for.

He is (as far as I know) going for a classic 3-piece morning suit, with hat. He'll look fab!

Awww! How sweet

2009-11-24T15:09:00.000-08:00

We went to my boss's wedding reception at the weekend. It was a lovely evening with a very lively dance floor.

The bride was wearing a dress from Candy Anthony (so jealous) with a red petticoat.

There were (very yummy) cupcakes, gramophones, and plenty of free drink on hand.

Mini champagne

2009-11-22T15:02:00.000-08:00

Back onto the wedding planning, as there are things which need to be done.

I read a wedding ideas book this week, which had been given me by my MIL (she picked it up at a charity shop). It wasn't great, but I picked up a couple of things.

One was handing out mini champagne bottles (or champagne splits as I think they are called) with straws to guests at the drinks reception. This would look quite kooky in the photos!

Images from: ivillage and 88events

2009-11-18T10:54:00.000-08:00

This week has been tough. A friend of ours passed away this week. He got married to his long term girlfriend just 10 days before, after realising that they would regret it if they didn't.
The wedding was a small affair arranged in 6 days with just family in attendance, but it was a happy, simple day full of love.

It kind of adjusts your priorities a bit...

Gift lists

2009-11-11T14:53:00.000-08:00

The hot topic of conversation in the house this week has been gifts. We would like a list a Selfridges, just because it is the best shop in the world! But it would be too much to expect that to be straightforward - they either do a selection of items in their wedding shop, or a 'pot' of money which you can then use to have a spree.

I like the sound of the spree, but not sure that all the relatives will...

Spotted: Mr Boddington

2009-11-09T15:12:00.000-08:00

The stuff this stationers are churning out is just great..go look! It is so quirky and original

Via Style me pretty

Shoes

2009-11-08T15:01:00.000-08:00

I'm compromising on something. While I'm not being a bridezilla (as far as I know), I am being quite singleminded in terms of most of the decisions. This is, however, because it takes me so long to make a decision, so I can't cope with then having people changing my mind.

I mentioned previously that my mum didn't like the idea of me wearing coloured shoes. So after a discussion, I've decided I will have a pair of proper ivory satin heels for the ceremony and during the day, which I can then kick off for the evening and switch into a pair of coloured flats!

Everyone wins! I know I won't survive in heels all day anyway, especially if I want to have a dance.

(I since found out that my MIL likes the idea of coloured shoes, but I guess that's not enough)

Some pretties:

Wedding shoes by smomo on Polyvore.com

Items in this set:
Theaccessoryboutique.com, 55 GBP
Allbackgrounds.com
Hattie - Rainbow Club, 75 GBP
Dolly - Rainbow Club, 69 GBP
COLORIFFICS SUE-5874-IVORY...

2009-11-03T17:03:00.000-08:00

I bought a new diary for next year, and began the process of adding important dates. Starting with the most important I managed to write "WEEDING" on 15th May!

Arrrgh how irritating...
Possibly need to invest in a new diary

Etsy hair accessories

2009-11-02T19:39:00.000-08:00

After yesterday's post on hair accessories I headed to etsy, as I often do, to see what was on offer there. No surprise, there was so much to choose from. This is a selection of pretties, having only searched for headbands. The best thing is they are all so reasonably priced and handmade.

First up, this pearly one from The Lovely Lamb

My Lavaliere has this swallow headband. It is simple but pretty

This one is from Live in style. I love this whole shop. This headband is maybe a little big compared to what I actually want, but it was too pretty not to post - there are plenty of others on there I could choose instead.

As well as beaded headbands like this one Little White Dresser also has a really pretty beaded sash

Quirky beauty live up to their name. I found it tough to pick just one.

This sequinned one is from Wee Gardens.

And last up, this one from Ice Cream Candy. This shop has a large range, and I particularly like this one as it is on ribbon not on elastic so it will have a 'tail' at the back.

There are so many other etsy shops with great stuff which I could have shown, a few include: Bethany Lorelle, Heart of light, Be something new, and Beautiful blossoms

Images from individual etsy shops, please visit them to see more great handmade goodies

Hair accessories

2009-11-01T09:39:00.000-08:00

I need to sort my hair out, I'm not happy with my current cut but I'm hoping it will grow on me(!)
Whilst at the hairdressers last week, she found a grey hair - horror of horrors!

Anyway, wedding wise, I would like to have some kind of hairpiece but nothing so fancy as a tiara. My ideas are very much still as I first imagined for my hair. How about something like these

I already have one a bit like this from being a bridesmaid earlier in the year, so I could just wear that.

Or a pretty hairband. This one is a bargain at topshop at the moment

Images: First two from 2) Yarwood-White, 1 &3) Flutterby weddings, 4) Topshop

Pavement

2009-10-20T12:40:00.000-07:00

Woah! For a minute there, a gig was coming before the wedding. Pavement are reforming and the one date is, of course, our wedding day.

But, so luckily, they have announced another date the week before. Phew!

Bunting

2009-10-16T14:29:00.000-07:00

I went to meet the caterers/ venue organisers this week, and we discussed all the details, inlcuding some menu choices.

But one thing which stuck with me was that they did a wedding recently which used bunting. I had quite fancied this, having seen some lovely pics from elsewhere but now I'm thinking seriously.

Some inspiration...

This last one is in my colours

Looks like there is plenty of choice on zig zag, not on the high street, as well as adventino,and the cotton bunting company.

Or another diy project...

Images from flickr users holster, Laura-Elizabeth, deadheaduk, dangermain, and imedagoze, plus the cotton bunting company

Dress design - part 2

2009-10-06T14:58:00.000-07:00

I have just chosen my final dress design from my designer friend. It has been such fun choosing the designs and picking which bits I liked from each one to put towards the final design.

I just have to send a cheque and I get my design through so I can get someone (not sure who yet, any ideas?) to make a pattern.

This process is highly recommended, as I am getting exactly the dress I want, for a much lower cost than I would otherwise get, and it has been really fun. The only thing I didn't realise beforehand was that I wouldn't get to try it on until it is made. There is no falling for the dress when you try it on. I know I still have to wait, but I will go through the fun process of making my dress with my mum.

I'm not going to share just now, but I will eventually crack...

Eloping

2009-09-20T16:00:00.000-07:00

I found it quite funny this week when my dad gave me some information on weddings in Gretna Green, in case we wanted to elope!

It wouldn't be a wedding in either of our families if someone didn't suggest eloping, but luckily I know he's just being amusing. It definitely appealed to my sense of humour!

I've still got no idea where he got the info from, and how much effort he went to to source it

Inspiration boards 2

2009-09-19T11:57:00.000-07:00

I was playing around on Style me pretty's inspiration board maker, having joined the Circle.
I'm quite happy with it, although I could do with changing the colour of the bunting.

Credits: Lisa Lefkowitz (2), Lisa Lefkowitz, Lisa Lefkowitz - Editorial Shoot Backyard Chic, Heather Kincaid - Annie & Joe (2), Heather Kincaid, Linda Chaja - Chris & Leah (2), Linda Chaja, Jubilee Events (2), Kelley and Todd Whittaker, Jubilee Events ~ Matt & Kim, Horniman museum (2), Diamond Affairs Weddings & Special Events (2), Karlisch, Diamond Affairs - Amy & Patrick, Jose Villa Photography (4), Jose Villa (2), Jose Villa - Marissa & Pat, Justin Marantz (2), Justin Marantz-Julia and Mike, Q Weddings (2), Q Weddings, Q Weddings - Jenifer & Scott, Jose Villa - Marissa & Pat

Inspiration boards

2009-09-18T11:05:00.000-07:00

There seem to be more and more tools for aiding with making inspiration boards, especially useful if you don't have access to or the skills to use photoshop or similar.

First up, Dessy have just released their tool based on Pantone colours. It seems to have a few bugs just now but it is useful if you are trying to select bridesmaid stuff based on colour.

Style me pretty have got their new tool too, which has produced some great boards so far. I'm just in the process of making my first ones.

If you want to start from scratch the mosaic makers at big huge labs makes it nice and simple, but it only works with flickr pics unless you sign up

Photographer: check

2009-09-06T08:12:00.000-07:00

We met our photographer on Thursday. After a couple of weeks of trying to arrange a meeting, we finally sorted it out and it's all good.

I've said before about how we are not too bothered about the photography element of the day, but understand that it will be regretted if we don't get it. We also don't want any photography in the church (I don;t think they allow it anyway). We don't want prints or an album, just the images so we can do what we want with them.

It may seem like we're being a bit picky, but it's a lot of money to spend if it's something your heart is not in! Our photographer seems to completely understand. He's nice and laid back, very friendly, doesn't like doing formal photos, is creative, and loves working at our venue.

Perfect!

Image from stick.xchng user porah

Oh, J!

2009-09-02T15:18:00.000-07:00

My J is being wonderful - on Saturday he went to the department store off his own back to ask about suit hire!

He is also spending a lot of time at the moment organising our minimoon (our few days break in the UK straight after the wedding) and the honeymoon (our proper holiday later in the year).

He is also doing a wonderful job at keeping me sane

xxxxx

Vera Wang - part 3

2009-09-01T14:07:00.001-07:00

After the early interest in Vera Wang (well, who couldn't be interested in her dresses), on Saturday I went to the Vera Wang boutique in London with my chief bridesmaid.

Oh, the dresses are beautiful!

Put any of them on and you will feel fabulous, because of the quality of the dresses. But it was obviously still important that I felt like me. It was nice not to be under any pressure as I was only really there for the fun of it and for ideas.

This is the one that really got me - enough to make me try it on twice. I'm showing you the back because the detailing is especially nice. It is quite a plain dress, no sparkle, no lace, i.e. perfect for me, but it has enough of something to make it interesting.
I also enjoyed the fact that the stock shoes they had were Jimmy Choos! They were comfy too, which was doing its bit to try to persuade me that they were something I could maybe invest in for the big day - we'll see!

I tried these two as well; the proper princessy one was great to wear but in the end wasn't really me, but the criss-crossy one was a really nice shape and unusual. It had a bit more wow about it without being too much.

I found the images on google, I guess it was from Vera Wang at some point in its history

Huge

2009-08-26T13:56:00.000-07:00

This post from A Practical Wedding is just great. I hope to feel exactly like this after my wedding.

What's going on? - update

2009-08-25T12:57:00.000-07:00

This week so far has been quite exciting planning-wise.
On Sunday my chief bridesmaid phoned to tell me she was sorting my hen night, and had just about everything ready but that she was going to keep the details a secret (if my sister, other bridesmaid can keep quiet!).

Secondly, it looks like we have a photographer almost sorted. Luckily it is one of those on the venue's approved list, so we don't have to worry about the awkwardness of having to deal with paying extra commission. We're meeting him next week.

And then thirdly, I have some initial ideas from my dress designer. That had to be the most exciting email to ever walk into on a Monday morning! I'm musing over them, but of 9 I have 3 favourites.

Pass me the sharpie so I can cross things off the list please...(well nearly, I can write some notes or something!)

Cookies

2009-08-19T13:32:00.001-07:00

I quite like the idea of cookies as a favour (I'm still not sure about favours, they are the one thing I have no ideas about).

We were given a box of biscuiteers biscuits when we got engaged, which were so pretty and yummy. So that got us thinking about giving cookies.
But, as I love crafting, I thought we could do our own! It is easy to find cookie cutters in any shape you want. But I hadn't seen these before:These are texture plates for cookies. You just ice them with fondant or buttercream icing and once it has hardened, you put the plate on top and roll over it, leaving a lovely textured pattern. So clever and saves all the fiddly decorating business! I'm quite tempted.

Images from biscuiteers and cookiecutter.com

Dress design

2009-08-13T16:06:00.000-07:00

I met my dress designer friend-of-a-friend this evening to discuss my ideas and what I was looking for.

I thought I was being quite prescriptive by suggesting that it had to have straps, an a line silhouette, some detail at the back - possibly some kind of sash/bow, but she was over the moon that she had this quite clear start point really a blank sheet to take from there.

I took along my ideas sheet which I put together to tidy up my image files
Click on the image for better detail. The dresses are from: l-r top row Amsale, Johanna Hehir, Mikaella, Johanna Hehir, Alfred Sung, Johanna Hehir
row 2 Watters, don't know the next 2!, Martina Liana, Alfred Sung, Amsale, Both the last 2 are from people's wedding pics - sorry
row 3 don't know, Johanna Hehir, Amsale, don't know next 2, last one from Amsale
You can tell the stage at which I started noting where things were from - apologies, when I get a change I'll source some of the others!

I'm expecting some first ideas in a couple of weeks, In the meantime I need to find a pattern cutter.

Spotted: Cupcakes

2009-08-07T12:33:00.000-07:00

I love cupcakes - It's no secret

I might even try and sneak along to the Hummingbird bakery or Lola's on Saturday while J is at the football

We're not having them at the wedding as plans go so far, but I quite liked this place setting idea I saw on the Wedding channel's diy blog
Or this one from One charming party (with tutorial)

Or maybe we could just have some of Bakerella's cupcake pops

What's going on? - Update

2009-08-06T12:28:00.001-07:00

It seems like yesterday everything started coming together...

I got in touch with the potential dress designer and are planning to meet up next week.
I need to look into pattern cutters and fabric next.

I've also realised it doesn't matter if mum doesn't like the dress I do, as that won't be the dress I have in the end.

Finally got a reasonable response from a photographer, so planning that meet up too

I sent the list of invitees to my BM for my hen night which was quite exciting. I don't know how far on she is with the plans so I'm looking forward to know what's happening - I don't like surprises!

I was at Spitalfields market at the weekend, which seems to be the go-to place for wooden printing blocks and letters. I was hoping to find a sundial one for the invites but had no luck this time.

Phew!

What's going on?

2009-08-01T16:15:00.000-07:00

This is just meant to be a quick catch up of what's been going on this last couple of weeks, just so you know I haven't been sitting back doing nothing (just next to nothing) so it covers a bit of everything.

I've been getting in touch with a few photographers - I can tell this is going to be one of the major sticking points of the planning. We don't have a huge budget for the photos as we are not huge photo people. The disappointment of not having the one photographer we really wanted also makes it a bit harder. The other difficulty is the approved list, where we have to start our search (or pay commission to the venue).

I've got the contact details for the dress designer friend-of-a-friend, so I can get that going. Which is just as well because my mum decided to come out and tell me that she didn't really like THE DRESS! (don't get me started on that one!)

Shopping with my sister today I managed to convince her of the coloured shoes thing. J and mum don't agree but really I don't care. It will be almost impossible to find ivory shoes without resorting to v expensive ones so I'll just pick up some blue beauties on the high street!

I popped into one of the local florists last week hoping to get some info, but they basically just said to come in a month or two before. That was it! Helpful huh! But I ended up buying some pretty peonies anyway. I think I'll try another one and see if they are more helpful.

I found a great vintage/junk shop quite nearby, my new destination for anything I need to buy. I'm sure I can find some way of including something cool from there. They have loads of wooden printing letter blocks which look great.

I also saw cute blue mini buckets in asda - I think this just proves I need to make some decisions about the decor.

image from flickr user scottpartee

Chatting

2009-07-21T14:52:00.000-07:00

Chatting weddings, as I do, with J while we were watching Four Weddings...

We were discussing what we thought of the communal/ interactive elements of the day. We have one idea which is still a surprise even to family and will not be announced until much closer to the time. But, in terms of guest books and favours, we're not convinced. We're just not into the soppy messages which get blurted out at every wedding everyone goes to, with perhaps a name change if you are lucky (yes, we are quite a cynical couple), but also do not see the point in something we are only going to look at a couple of times ever.

So I set myself the task of looking at alternatives:from style me pretty

from kiss the groom

J liked the idea of the photo booth or polaroid guest book - which kills both the guest comment and photo birds with one stone. I think I forget that he doesn't scour the wedding blogs/ magazines like I do and hasn't seen this however many times I have. All those others who aren't getting married right now - maybe they will think it is new/ original too!

Invitations

2009-07-19T14:35:00.001-07:00

We're making our own invitations, and thought, now we have everything booked up, that we could start to make them. The more we do now, the better.

We are doing pocketfolds, with info and RSVP cards in the pocket. Reasonably modern on cream card with blue details.

Much like these from the Knot
I made a first mock up, but managed to leave it with my mum before I took any pictures of it

I'm now looking for a way to emboss some detail

Image from the Knot

TV weddings

2009-07-14T15:05:00.000-07:00

I ended up watching the film Confetti on Sunday night, which was quite funny. It was always one I said I'd get round to watching, starring as it does a number of funny British comedy actors.

It is about three couples competing for a magazine 'Most original wedding of the year' contest. The three weddings are themed tennis, musicals and naturist!

I then ended up watching Four weddings on Living last night. This was the same thing but real life. Four couples competed, except the weddings didn't have to be original, they just had to be rated by the other brides.

Plenty of ideas of what not to do! Obviously they are going to pick ones which make more interesting TV, but they were all a little odd

Spotted: Maps

2009-07-10T13:39:00.000-07:00

I love maps (yes, I'm a geek) as does J (yes, he's a geek too!) but I never considered combining them with my wedding! This great post at project wedding shows how it can be done with flair - and diy!

Dress shopping 2

2009-07-08T13:48:00.000-07:00

I was dress trying on at the weekend, with mum and my sister (also a bridesmaid). We went to Johanna Hehir in Marylebone, London as this was where I saw the first dress I really liked.

It was a lot more relaxed than the previous trying session (I guess that's what you get at a designer boutique) and we started by looking through the style books and letting them get an idea of what I liked/ didn't like. I did start to worry for a moment as I hadn't seen the dress, but it was, happily, on the last page of the last book!

I tried 5 dresses in all, starting with one which was a bit different to what I thought I was looking for - just to rule it out (or not).
It's the one on the right of this picture. It has cute short sleeves which I liked and a light skirt, kind of evening dress style. And that's what I thought when I put it on - not quite a wedding dress for me.
Dress 2 was more what I was expecting and was the dress! I was really excited to finally try it on. And it definitely did the business! Enough that I couldn't stop grinning! Once a veil (reminder to self - elbow length, not full length - looked Victorian!) got plonked on my head, that was it!I tried it with some different belts, one coloured ribbon and two embellished sparkly belts. Although I was quite convinced by adding some colour before, I really liked the beaded ones.

Once I was persuaded to take it off, I tried another - and then got confused!This one is again v-neck, but has a beaded lace top. I had discounted lace as I think it looks too fussy for me, but this dress confused me. It is really beautiful and I thought it was lovely. Almost as lovely as the dress.

Mum said yes it was beautiful, but it wasn't me. It was bride but it wasn't Jo the bride. I totally agreed. I would never normally go for lace and things so why break the habit of a lifetime!

The next one didn't do it for me like the previous two, although it was still lovely. It had little cap sleeves and a scoop neck. I preferred the v neck on me.

I did however like the puddle train.
The last one was a strapless a-line dress, to which was added a lace shrug (to get over church/ MIL strapless issues). The beading around the neckline was pretty and delicate, but the cut wasn't right on me.I had another quick try of the dress (cue more smiles).

Indecisiveness - who needs it!...
Now, I have to decide what to do next. It would be so simple to just buy this one, although it is expensive (even if I get it cheaper through their website).

I didn't ask if we could take pictures, and got rather distracted once we'd started so all the pictures are from their website.

Engage-versary

2009-07-05T10:48:00.000-07:00

It's exactly a year since we got engaged.

I'm so happy and excited.

We only get one of these days so it's really special.

This time next year I'll be Mrs M!

Dress shopping

2009-06-29T16:01:00.000-07:00

I'm going dress shopping - well, trying - on Saturday with my mum and sister. I'm really looking forward to it as I love all the dresses there.

Having been before I know what to expect, but this time I'm much more excited. At least this time it's actually planned!

Things are coming together, apart from the photographer, which we are struggling with a bit. We are not exactly sure what we want and whether we can get something a bit more relaxed than the majority seem to be.

We took my MIL to the venue yesterday (which is all booked up now!) and it made us all really excited!

Turtles and rings

2009-06-23T15:33:00.000-07:00

Pretty jewellery and one of my favourite animals - in one post? Turtle Love Committee have been doing the blog rounds and I'm so glad I checked it out as I found a great ring which I think is so pretty and is also an absolute bargain!

I had put a bit more in the budget aside for my ring, but I would rather have something so nice like this one.
It is called Cambolasse and the description says it is perfect for people looking for a simple wedding band that has some character - sounds like me!

I just need to work out what my american size is

Image from Turtle Love Committee

Crunch time

2009-06-22T19:00:00.000-07:00

I am going to start a regime of sit-ups every day.

I'm not going overboard with diets etc pre-wedding, but I could do with a little toning so this seems like a good place to start. It's not all I'm doing - I've been going swimming each week, and the netball season is in full swing.

I'm going to try to keep this up, and may well try to track my progress. I thought that by announcing my intentions on here would encourage me to do it, but given my progress on my new year resolutions posted on my other blog I'm not so sure!

image from stock.xchng user hortongrou

Ribbons

2009-06-21T14:39:00.000-07:00

So I don't think I'd have the patience to do this on however many chairs we might have, but it looks so pretty!
Via Style me pretty

Inspiration board

2009-06-11T22:19:00.000-07:00

Since my original inspiration, I've spent a lot of time pulling out photos I like, some of which you have seen before.

The result is this...Sources: (right, here goes) from top left to bottom right
Bridesmaids, Horniman conservatory, Johanna Hehir dress, St Barnabas Church, invite, edible centrepiece, flowers by me, Underground table plan, centrepiece flowers (can't remember where from sorry), suit, cheese cake, Horniman conservatory, London bus, chair, shoes, hurricane lamp, croquembouche, peach bellini, hair, Horniman conservatory

Sunflowers

2009-06-07T09:01:00.000-07:00

We went to Ikea on Friday night - I know, wild! It was quite enjoyable (unusual for Ikea) probably because it was Friday night and REALLY quiet, but also because we were only shopping for odds and ends. Anyway, I did spot these potted sunflowers for less than £2.50 each! I think they would make a nice start for centrepieces - so less than £2o for all of them!
I would probably need to buy them now while they have them but knowing how bad I am at keeping plants alive I think I'd have to get my mum to look after them.

Image from Ikea

Learning from other people

2009-06-06T13:24:00.000-07:00

I have been a bridesmaid 4 times, twice as a child and twice now I'm a bit more grown up.

From these and other weddings I have attended plus others which I have heard about, I have learned a few things about hosting one:

Timing seems to be crucial but don't panic if it starts slipping - as long as your guests are happy it's fine
Keep the champagne (or cheaper alternative) flowing at the drinks reception, especially if it is going on for a while. One glass will not keep them going
Keep going with the day even if it is not exactly to your plan, chances are no-one else is noticing
Book vendors based on recommendations
Make sure your photographer knows which pictures are most important to you
Enjoy yourself

I'm going to try and add to this list, I know there must be more...

DIY vs vendors

2009-06-05T13:12:00.000-07:00

I enjoy crafting (as done my mum) and this led to our decision to DIY quite a few bits. We also worked out how much money this might save us (particularly the dress).

That said I was starting to realise that, especially at the moment, we might be doing some good people out of work.

I especially admire people who make invitations, but I just can't justify pretty pretty letterpress....

Decision making part 2

2009-06-04T20:42:00.000-07:00

I'm not a particularly visual person in terms of pictures - I know what I like but I can't really use it to make decisions. I've realised after spending months doing this exact thing.

I am visual in terms of diagrams however, and thought that this instead would be the way to help me with making decisions.

I realised that my problem was I didn't know which decision to make first. The best way to represent this was a mind map as I could interlink everything.

I did this one on bubbl.us. You'll probably have to click on it to see the detail.Now I'm obviously not claiming that this is exhaustive, but it gave me a good start point.
I've now managed to fill in a lot of the boxes with actual ideas and this highlighted where there were still decisions to make.

I also created more detailed ones for some of the areas like my outfit.

Cons - the return

2009-06-03T11:48:00.000-07:00

Can I have some of these please?You can create your own colourways on the Converse website. What do you think of these ones I designed?
Image from Kate Headley and from Converse

Decision making

2009-06-02T13:39:00.000-07:00

I'm rubbish at decision making, I am just the most indecisive person ever. I've spent the last 11 months looking at pretty pictures and not really making any decisions at all.

Well that's what I thought. When I sat down and worked through all the possible things I had to think about, a lot more is decided than I had realised.

We know the church (booked), reception venue (to be booked this week), and bridal party. So the important things are done.

I also have ideas about my dress, bridesmaid dresses, hen do, flowers, invites,

The only major things to decide are the menu and the table/venue decor. The other things are all (relatively) minor, although some of these are decided too.

So that makes me feel a lot better. We just have to keep up the good work.

Flowers: part 3

2009-05-26T15:22:00.000-07:00

I think things are finally coming together. I took my parents to visit the venue this weekend, which I thought was reasonable given that they will have to give me a cheque for it next week!

It was quite a warm afternoon (for a change) and it was getting quite toasty in there, but I shouldn't think that will be a problem.

The flowers though...

Apologies for the rubbish photoshop but here is what I think I want bouquet-wise
So it's sunflowers (yes I decided they were a good idea), gerbera, lilies and some greenery. The bridesmaids will have the same but smaller with no sunflowers.

Image mine

In a year

2009-05-15T20:56:00.000-07:00

So we get married 1 year from today

And it's raining...

I keep looking out for rainbows but can't see any

I don't mind if it rains, if it means we can have pretty umbrellas

As long as it doesn't mess up the arrangements too much

Never mind, it's exciting to be only a year away, though a little scary

I just popped along to the venue and it looks great this time of year as all the flowers are coming out. They were having an event on today and I kind of wanted to hang around to see it all in action

Image from stock.xchng user jadey919

Hen night

2009-05-13T14:33:00.000-07:00

Image via Wikipedia

I realised I still had not blogged about the hen night I helped to organise (with one of the other bridesmaids) for my best friend.

We went to Ladies' day on the Grand National weekend at Ascot racecourse, which was a good excuse for dressing up. I wish I had made more of an effort rather than just pulling on an old dress I had, as some girls had really gone to town! If you ever wanted to know who buys those ridiculously high heels and those dresses that only just cover the bare essentials, look no further than Liverpool (no offence to anyone from there, I think it is the culture of the event rather than the people).

We had a 'picnic' on the train on the way up from London, which included buck's fizz - a great way to start the day.

The horse racing was quite good fun and we all got in the spirit of it, betting huge amounts (ok, 1 or 2 pounds) on horses and exclaiming when we lost! The bride to be was the only real winner, gaining about 50 on one race.

We then travelled on to Chester where we were spending Saturday and meeting the mums for a more civilised time of it. Saturday morning was spent enjoying the sights of Chester, and then we went for a lovely lunch at b2b's favourite bar.

The evening was however what we had put our efforts into: we had booked out a room at another bar and organised some games, entertainment and food, plus of course lots to drink. Everyone had a badge to wear (no diy-ing I'm afriad, these were pink and tacky!) while the bride had a sash. Note though, these were purchased (and worn) with a tinge of irony!

The entertainment was booked as a kissagram, but ended up doing the full monty! For a few minutes myself and the other bridesmaid thought we were going to be disowned by b2b, as I have never seen such abject shock on anyone's face. I don't think she thought we would do it, but her hints earlier in the organising process led us to believe that she would feeel she had missed out if we didn't do something outrageous. After all the shrieking and giggles, we all (even b2b) decided it had been worth it.

The game we played was great fun too, and it ended up with the b2b in quite a state. It's a Mr & Mrs style game with shots of your chosen tipple for incorrect answers.

ASK THE GROOM
Instructions
Before the night, ask the groom for his answers to 10 (fairly tricky) questions

e.g. what is my favourite food?
where in the world would I most like to go?
what animal does b2b remind you most of?

Record the answers
On the night, give everyone (except b2b) one of the questions/answers.
You take it in turns to ask the bride what the groom's answer would be.
Cue hilarious answers and worried looks!
For every one they get wrong they have to drink a shot! And the person asking the question has to drink it if they get it right
Great fun

Everyone finished off the night dancing away at one of the local clubs, having had a great weekend! It was very satisfying to have organised something like this, having not done anything like it before. It taught me some valuable planning lessons.

Flowers part 2

2009-05-05T14:35:00.000-07:00

When we were in Scotland last week I was buying a bunch of flowers for my grandparents as we were going to visit, and spotted in the florist these bouquets including gerberas and lilys! Perfect, it is not the weird combination that I thought was going to result in the florist looking oddly at me!Images from J's phone

Going Underground

2009-05-04T22:06:00.000-07:00

We were walking through Greenwich on very sunny Saturday and saw some people walk through with a London Underground table plan (Greenwich maritime is a beautiful wedding venue, we looked at it ourselves but stopped looking when we saw the price!).

So that has led to a big rethink and a more modern think on the decor ideas. Roll London transport related pics:It would be a good theme as I am a transport geek! Also, many of our guests are from outside London so it would be nice to have something which is relevant to the location.

Images from Bee happy designs, Hello Lucky, Anna Rosell via Bridalwave

Spotted: inspiration

2009-05-03T14:24:00.000-07:00

I spotted this inspiration board at Stylish Events while trying to make decisions on my own colour scheme (still somewhat undecided - I need to sit down and work out what is currently decided and what is left to do, so I can then get on with stuff.

Anyway, back to the board, it is a very spring/summer blue and yellow combo which I am quite fancying at the moment - possibly with a brighter blue, I don't really do pastels.
For info on the image sources go to the original post here

Image from Stylish Events

Pockets

2009-04-29T15:16:00.000-07:00

...in a dress, the best idea ever!

I had to stick my lipgloss down my top when I was bridesmaid at the weekend through a lack of pockets

image from amsale