Some Big Decisions

In Keith's words, blogs should be "high-action, cage fights to the death," so in an attempt to provide that to all my avid non-readers, here are some updates:

1. I like to number things. This may become a blog-theme, so watch out.

2. My mom came up last weekend and we went dress shopping, whereupon (*insert a completely underused word*) I found THE dress. It's something my mom did not expect me to like, but I thought I would instantly. Guess who was right :) Also, in a very sneaky sales tactic, the saleswoman dressing me held this one until the end, probably hoping to create some sort of "Aha" moment at the end.

I will probably post a picture of the dress, but not of myself in it, on here at some point. I can't do that yet because I haven't had "The Talk" with Keith about following instructions on this blog when I tell him not to go to specific links. If I think he will follow those instructions, then you will get to see pictures of "The Dress."b

Because I very much believe in sharing wisdom, here are some things I learned from dress shopping: a. Do NOT pay attention to size when you are trying on dresses. It's ridiculous and it will only make you feel bad. b. Bring as few people as possible. I just brought my mom, so the experience was much more relaxed than if there had been several people there. c. If you can afford it and have the time to do the research, find a smaller shop that sells gowns at the same price as the larger bridal warehouses (e.g. David's Bridal). The smaller shop will usually offer the same options for gowns, and the service is much more personal.

3. We are 99% sure of the date: March 20, 2010. We will be getting married on our nephew's 1st birthday :)

4. We are pretty sure that our reception is going to be at Soiree in Historic Downtown Pensacola. Their rates are incredibly reasonable and the space is really pretty. When I am more prepared, I will post pictures of the inside of the space. For now, you will have to use your imagination: The walls are brick, the columns and ceilings are hardwood, and the front walls are glass looking out onto the street. Very cute.

5. I found a photographer that I really like and will probably hire. Her name is Kim Sellers and she fulfills all of my criteria for a photographer: she has shot at our reception location and has a good working relationship with that vendor, she provides a full day of photography in every package, she does not force prints upon you, and, most importantly, she charges an extremely reasonable fee. Keith and I decided that we wanted a photographer that can do a range of photos from more formal, posed shots to detail-oriented, photojournalist-style shots. Kim provides both of those options. Plus, she's available on our date :)

6. I really want to be able to incorporate gardenias into the wedding or what I am wearing. Gardenias are somewhat of a family tradition - my great-grandmother had a gardenia bush in her front yard, as did my grandmother. Since my great-grandmother died about 5 years ago, before any of her great-grandchildren got married, I know it would mean a lot to my grandmother to honor her memory in some way. To that end, I would like to wear a gardenia in my hair during the wedding. Gardenias, however, are really delicate flowers and quickly change color when handled, so I doubt I will be able to wear a fresh one. I will probably scour Etsy for a handmade replica. I know my grandmother will love this, especially considering I will probably be wearing my great-grandmother's diamond earrings as my "something old."

That's enough updates for now. I don't want to post too much at a time. Suspense is a good thing!