"I Just Can't Wait For This To Be OVER!!"

I have to tell you, every time I hear this phrase, I cringe. I feel so sorry for the couple getting married because they are saying that they are just so sick and tired of planning that they seem not to even want the wedding they've been planning. How sad!

The truth is, planning a wedding is nerve-wracking, stressful, worrisome, annoying, frustrating, expensive... Yes, all of these words can be applied to the planning process IF YOU LET THEM. Sometimes it's a well-meaning relative's unsolicited advice that gets under your skin. Other times, your vendor is impossible to reach. Maybe you're not sure of what you want for the bridesmaids' dresses and everyone of them is offering a differing opinion. When you feel like your head is going to spin around like Linda Blair in the Exorcist - STOP. Try to remind yourself that everyone truly has your best interests at heart, and are good intentioned. Everyone just has their own idea of how a wedding "should be" but, truly, only you and your fiance have to be happy with your decisions.

Here's a tip: When you are about 1 month or less away from your wedding, try to get all of your details down on paper (if you're not working with a wedding consultant who is doing this thinking for you). Set a goal to have everything that can be done ahead of time completed no later than one week before your wedding. That way, the week of your wedding, you'll be in "execution mode" - getting your mani/pedi/massage, going to your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner, etc., and won't be still trying to "get things done."

Even if you've been engaged for 2 years, you should be excited to be sharing all of your hard work and planning with your friends and family. The dread and exhaustion I hear on TV or from some couples could be turned around. How about trying "I'm so happy the planning phase is over, and now I get to celebrate with my closest family and friends!" Just change the words and you'll be amazed at all of the positive feelings they evoke!

Until next time, happy planning...

Bride Ideas turns 6!!

Today is a big day here at Bride Ideas -- we're 6! That's right, on July 7, 2002, I formed Bride Ideas, LLC, never dreaming I'd be where I am today. I've worked with so many wonderful couples over the past 6 years -- seen so many tears of joy and expressions of love. Thank you for all of your support, and I look forward to what this new year has in store. Lots of exciting changes going on, which I'll fill you in on soon.

Until next time, happy planning...

Honaty & Gaddy celebrate in style

I met Honaty and Gaddy about 6 months ago, when they came to me with little more than a church, reception venue, photographer and videographer. They had some ideas of how they wanted their wedding to be, but not a concrete vision. But, they were open to my suggestions, and we spent the first half of the year creating and defining exactly how they wanted their wedding to be remembered.

Because most of the guests spoke Spanish, the wedding ceremony was conducted in Spanish, and the DJ spoke both Spanish and English throughout the reception. They chose the Richfield Regency, a lovely venue in Verona, to celebrate with their family and friends - and what a celebration it was!

Honaty (and Gaddy too!) chose a purply-pink color as a dominant theme, and the rented linens and all of the paper reflected that choice. The invitations, escort cards, menus and table numbers were all created by Allison of the Satin Bow, and featured a rhinestone buckle. Their attention to detail really made the reception look beautiful!! Don't take my word for it, though, check out this photo of the table setting. I have to admit, though, the linen color did not come out in the photo true to life (sorry, my camera skills don't compare to a professional!).

Honaty & Gaddy really are a wonderful couple. It was my pleasure and honor to have been a part of their fabulous celebration!

Until next time, happy planning...