Recently I've noticed that it doesn't take very much to annoy me. Another email asking whether or not we invited someone to the wedding? Annoyed. Finding out someone hasn't booked their ticket to the wedding yet? Annoyed. Not realizing that I'm inside the moving truck before moving it? Annoyed.
I don't know where this spirit of contempt is coming from. I'm guessing it's a biproduct of stress, so I'm trying to relax. Part of it might be resentment because this planning feels very lonely. I know people want to help, but usually W is the person I need to help me with stuff (just because they're decisions, not physical tasks) and he's not around all the time. I'll be glad when planning is over because maybe then I can be normal. Maybe. Just maybe.
I'll try and counteract the negativity with some positive thoughts:
1) I love my caterer. She's been great at accommodating our requests and is doing everything she can to ensure that I don't have to worry about her part.
2) I love my decorations gal. I stopped worrying about reception decorations the minute I appointed her.
3) I'm thankful for W and his willingness to move all my junk to the new apartment.
4) I'm thankful for our new apartment! It might be a little on the older side and a little further from work, but I'm glad we found something affordable with enough space for us.
5) I'm glad for good girl friends who patiently listen to me complain about wedding stuff even though their lives are much more serious/important.
6) I'm thankful that work has been manageable lately. I don't know if I'm getting better assignments on purpose but it's been a blessing to not have to worry about staying 3 hours later just to finish up paperwork.
7) I love that Bisquick pancakes can actually be pretty tasty. I really wanted pancakes the other day and that totally hit the spot.
8) I'm thankful for a spa gift certificate from a certain former roommate- I was saving it for the wedding, and it'll be the perfect indulgence for this week.
9) My sibs have been phenomenal- anything I've asked of them they've helped with, and then some.
10) W has been really patient even though I was really snappy with him yesterday.
11) I'm thankful that Craigslist exists. The couch that no one wants to move will be moved tonight.
12) I'm glad that Facebook lets us see pictures from other people's albums even if we're not friends with them.
Okay, that's enough for now. Time to move a couch.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Saturday, July 19, 2008
secret single behavior
Is it weird that I suddenly want to exert my independence more and more as the wedding gets closer? I love W, of course, and I can't wait to marry him, but part of me really enjoys the alone time I've been able to have since he's only in town on the weekends. I miss him like crazy, but I get really excited when I get to go somewhere by myself or have some kind of adventure. Maybe my feminist side wants to remind me that I'm a very capable person. Or maybe this is some weird bachelorette mechanism that kicks in once I realize that I'm gonna be married to this person forever. Sorta like in Full House when Uncle Jesse goes skydiving right before his wedding because he feels like he's not gonna have any adventures anymore.
Really though? I know W will be fine if I have a weekend with my girls. And our schedules will be different so I can still explore and learn and fuel the economy alone if I choose (although a lot of times it's more fun when W's there, especially if we're eating cuz then I can try more food). I think when it comes down to it I'm not that worried about missing out cuz I'm married...I'm more worried about missing out on things if I'm pregnant or if I have a bunch of kids running around. And I know that's a ways off, but after I get married it could be ANY TIME. Granted, we're taking measures to try and prevent getting pregnant right away, but who knows what will happen. I know I shouldn't be worried, especially since I want to have kids eventually, but it hit me during premarital counseling that we need to be loving and supporting each other not only for ourselves, but for our future family. Our family! Wow! Something that I've dreamed of for so long could be a reality soon. Crazy.
This whole process is so unreal. Thanks for sharing it with me. =)
Really though? I know W will be fine if I have a weekend with my girls. And our schedules will be different so I can still explore and learn and fuel the economy alone if I choose (although a lot of times it's more fun when W's there, especially if we're eating cuz then I can try more food). I think when it comes down to it I'm not that worried about missing out cuz I'm married...I'm more worried about missing out on things if I'm pregnant or if I have a bunch of kids running around. And I know that's a ways off, but after I get married it could be ANY TIME. Granted, we're taking measures to try and prevent getting pregnant right away, but who knows what will happen. I know I shouldn't be worried, especially since I want to have kids eventually, but it hit me during premarital counseling that we need to be loving and supporting each other not only for ourselves, but for our future family. Our family! Wow! Something that I've dreamed of for so long could be a reality soon. Crazy.
This whole process is so unreal. Thanks for sharing it with me. =)
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
one month!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
HOLY COW.
There's SO much to do in one month...luckily I had time on the plane to make multiple to-do lists, so I feel a little better. But still...wow! W and I were talking about it today and it's finally starting to sink in for both of us. Maybe it's cuz we have an apartment now? I dunno what it is, but now it's crunch time. Like, for real!
We're still having issues with the registry (aka W's being picky about what goes on there and I don't care about what goes on there cuz it's the least of my worries). Any suggestions on what to ask for? I already threw in some fun things and people bought them for us! (homemade ice cream, here we come!) Suggestions are welcome- I keep forgetting basic household things because I have SO MUCH CRAP in my room that needs to be reduced significantly if I'm gonna be sharing space with someone in a month. Did I mention that I need to pack? Am I starting to sound stressed?
There's SO much to do in one month...luckily I had time on the plane to make multiple to-do lists, so I feel a little better. But still...wow! W and I were talking about it today and it's finally starting to sink in for both of us. Maybe it's cuz we have an apartment now? I dunno what it is, but now it's crunch time. Like, for real!
We're still having issues with the registry (aka W's being picky about what goes on there and I don't care about what goes on there cuz it's the least of my worries). Any suggestions on what to ask for? I already threw in some fun things and people bought them for us! (homemade ice cream, here we come!) Suggestions are welcome- I keep forgetting basic household things because I have SO MUCH CRAP in my room that needs to be reduced significantly if I'm gonna be sharing space with someone in a month. Did I mention that I need to pack? Am I starting to sound stressed?
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
taking notes
Our friends J&C got married this past weekend (Congrats!) and W and I had the privilege of helping them on the big day. I got the behind-the-scenes look as a bridesmaid, and W was our trusty driver. The wedding was beautiful and went very smoothly thanks to the groom's detailed spreadsheet.
I loved being part of the bridal party, especially since C is such a great friend, and I think getting to support her on her big day was my favorite part. We ended up having a three-part toast (there were only three bridesmaids, including the MOH) and it was a fun opportunity to reflect on our friendship. The music was good, the food was good, dancing was fun...but really? It was just wonderful to share in a friend's joy.
I'll be in DC for another wedding this coming Sunday, so it'll be fun to share in yet another friend's joy! And yes, I've been taking notes at these weddings...gotta figure out what last minute things I can include in the wedding and what things are okay to omit.
A picture of W and me from the wedding: (aka proof that 2 weeks is just about right for his hair, and that my hair needs to be all up or the curls will fall out)
I loved being part of the bridal party, especially since C is such a great friend, and I think getting to support her on her big day was my favorite part. We ended up having a three-part toast (there were only three bridesmaids, including the MOH) and it was a fun opportunity to reflect on our friendship. The music was good, the food was good, dancing was fun...but really? It was just wonderful to share in a friend's joy.
I'll be in DC for another wedding this coming Sunday, so it'll be fun to share in yet another friend's joy! And yes, I've been taking notes at these weddings...gotta figure out what last minute things I can include in the wedding and what things are okay to omit.
A picture of W and me from the wedding: (aka proof that 2 weeks is just about right for his hair, and that my hair needs to be all up or the curls will fall out)
Thursday, June 26, 2008
behind the scenes
Just thought it'd be fun to show you Wayne's hair trial:
This is the un-gelled version. Apparently the side part that he sported in our engagement pictures makes him look too much like a Chinese dad. I think it's fine, and he thinks so too, so we're gonna go with a shorter version of the side part but gelled. He's done it before so it looks fine...the trick is figuring out when he needs to cut his hair so it's the right length. He went to our hairstylist before A&E's wedding to get his hair cut and when he walked through the door I was like "oh no!" It was way short. After a week it looked better though, and now that it's been 2 weeks it's just about right. And he's not making a kissy face in the picture- he's going for Magnum. "Dear God...it's beautiful!"
And our lovely, simple Chinese invitations:
Sorry the pictures aren't great, but they fit all of the qualifications: red, with the double happiness symbol, and in Chinese. We made them ourselves, thanks to the suggestion of C.L. (soon to be C.C.!!) and the friendly clerk at Paper Source. And by ourselves I mean with help from my womens group and W's uncle. We're invitation MACHINES.
Other than that, we're in the stage where we're getting RSVPs and paying for things. W is in Hartford during the week, and thankfully I've had time to visit him last week and today. The drive isn't too bad cuz I don't go during high traffic hours. I still miss him though- it's so pathetic. After I saw him today I started to get sad the minute I got into my own car to leave Hartford. I know I'll see him over the weekend, but it's not the same. I'm gonna go into shock after the wedding cuz we'll be together ALL THE TIME. Eesh!
This is the un-gelled version. Apparently the side part that he sported in our engagement pictures makes him look too much like a Chinese dad. I think it's fine, and he thinks so too, so we're gonna go with a shorter version of the side part but gelled. He's done it before so it looks fine...the trick is figuring out when he needs to cut his hair so it's the right length. He went to our hairstylist before A&E's wedding to get his hair cut and when he walked through the door I was like "oh no!" It was way short. After a week it looked better though, and now that it's been 2 weeks it's just about right. And he's not making a kissy face in the picture- he's going for Magnum. "Dear God...it's beautiful!"
And our lovely, simple Chinese invitations:
Sorry the pictures aren't great, but they fit all of the qualifications: red, with the double happiness symbol, and in Chinese. We made them ourselves, thanks to the suggestion of C.L. (soon to be C.C.!!) and the friendly clerk at Paper Source. And by ourselves I mean with help from my womens group and W's uncle. We're invitation MACHINES.
Other than that, we're in the stage where we're getting RSVPs and paying for things. W is in Hartford during the week, and thankfully I've had time to visit him last week and today. The drive isn't too bad cuz I don't go during high traffic hours. I still miss him though- it's so pathetic. After I saw him today I started to get sad the minute I got into my own car to leave Hartford. I know I'll see him over the weekend, but it's not the same. I'm gonna go into shock after the wedding cuz we'll be together ALL THE TIME. Eesh!
Thursday, June 19, 2008
makeup
Before shot
Jamie spent maybe 30 minutes getting foundation and everything figured out, and came up with this:
My reaction was like, "whoa!" And not a good "whoa" either. The eye makeup was really heavy, and I almost looked kinda bruised. We wiped down my eyes and made it less dramatic and got this:
Excuse my crooked smile- it's awkward taking pictures of yourself with all that makeup on. It was better, but I think we're gonna go with an eyeshadow that's more on the light purple/lilac side instead of indigo. If I was onstage in a dance performance the former might have worked, but I think we'll have to mute it a little.
Monday, June 16, 2008
opinions please!
Okay, in an effort to make my pew decorations interesting, I think I might use these:
Hanging vases from cb2, Crate and Barrel's more modern, "affordable" division. Basically, we have hooks for each pew, and we can tie a ribbon onto the vase and have it loop around the hook. We could either have tulle ribbon (basically tulle but a lot less of it) connect each vase (I'd put a vase on every other pew) or just have a tulle or satin ribbon at the base. It's very minimalistic but that way I could incorporate a single flower or something to make it very clean but pretty.
The only problem is that our pews look like this:
There's, like, upholstery on the pews, so I don't know if that takes away from the look. Also, we're not using a runner, so I'll be walking on purple carpet.
Any opinions are helpful! I need to know:
1) If the hanging vases are worth the trouble
2) If there should be ribbon/tulle connecting the pews or if each decoration should be separate
3) What color and what kind of flower we should use for the hanging vases if we do use them.
The previous cloth and single flower thing I posted about doesn't work because the top of the pews are shaped weird.
ALSO- As of right now my flower girls (who are both 7 years old) will be holding baskets of flowers and walking down the aisle. The more I think about this, the less I like it. Part of me wants them to either A) Hold pomanders
(those flower ball thingies)
or b) toss silk petals down the aisle for my entrance. I think the clean-up for the silk petals will be a little bit of a pain, but it might dress up the otherwise plain aisle. Hopefully between the two of them they can scatter the petals pretty well instead of dropping it in clumps or something. Really? They're seven. They're smart.
OPINIONS PLEASE! Invitations are pretty much done, so now I can get back to all the little details. Thanks. =)
Hanging vases from cb2, Crate and Barrel's more modern, "affordable" division. Basically, we have hooks for each pew, and we can tie a ribbon onto the vase and have it loop around the hook. We could either have tulle ribbon (basically tulle but a lot less of it) connect each vase (I'd put a vase on every other pew) or just have a tulle or satin ribbon at the base. It's very minimalistic but that way I could incorporate a single flower or something to make it very clean but pretty.
The only problem is that our pews look like this:
There's, like, upholstery on the pews, so I don't know if that takes away from the look. Also, we're not using a runner, so I'll be walking on purple carpet.
Any opinions are helpful! I need to know:
1) If the hanging vases are worth the trouble
2) If there should be ribbon/tulle connecting the pews or if each decoration should be separate
3) What color and what kind of flower we should use for the hanging vases if we do use them.
The previous cloth and single flower thing I posted about doesn't work because the top of the pews are shaped weird.
ALSO- As of right now my flower girls (who are both 7 years old) will be holding baskets of flowers and walking down the aisle. The more I think about this, the less I like it. Part of me wants them to either A) Hold pomanders
(those flower ball thingies)or b) toss silk petals down the aisle for my entrance. I think the clean-up for the silk petals will be a little bit of a pain, but it might dress up the otherwise plain aisle. Hopefully between the two of them they can scatter the petals pretty well instead of dropping it in clumps or something. Really? They're seven. They're smart.
OPINIONS PLEASE! Invitations are pretty much done, so now I can get back to all the little details. Thanks. =)
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
it's official!
75% of the invitations have been mailed. Or, well, I just tossed them in the mailbox outside my apartment complex, so they'll be on their way to various destinations all over the country by noon tomorrow. The other 25% are pending addresses and guest list alterations.
I can't wait till you see them! My cousin had to create four different designs until we found something that worked (with printing and everything) and I had to drive into Boston 4 separate times, but it was worth it. Hopefully everyone likes it, too. We completed the Chinese invitations and gave them to W's parents so those should be on their way. I'm gonna send one to my great aunt and one to my grandma since they're in Chinese and English...I think they'd appreciate it. I like having an original design because, well, I'm high maintenance like that.
I'm hoping that the invitations are more of a formality than a first alert that someone's invited to the wedding. I get a little stressed when I hear that people haven't booked their flights yet. Airfare is so expensive nowadays and it'll probably only get worse. *sigh*
I've been really bummed when I hear that people can't make it, but I was reminded that I'm very blessed cuz one of my friends is getting married in Taiwan and none of her friends can go. If I had an abundance of earned time and if W didn't have his internship I would have pushed for us to go (I would have pushed for a stop in Hawaii for D&L's wedding while we were at it, too). This summer is gonna be crazy...and it all starts this weekend with summer wedding #1!
I can't wait till you see them! My cousin had to create four different designs until we found something that worked (with printing and everything) and I had to drive into Boston 4 separate times, but it was worth it. Hopefully everyone likes it, too. We completed the Chinese invitations and gave them to W's parents so those should be on their way. I'm gonna send one to my great aunt and one to my grandma since they're in Chinese and English...I think they'd appreciate it. I like having an original design because, well, I'm high maintenance like that.
I'm hoping that the invitations are more of a formality than a first alert that someone's invited to the wedding. I get a little stressed when I hear that people haven't booked their flights yet. Airfare is so expensive nowadays and it'll probably only get worse. *sigh*
I've been really bummed when I hear that people can't make it, but I was reminded that I'm very blessed cuz one of my friends is getting married in Taiwan and none of her friends can go. If I had an abundance of earned time and if W didn't have his internship I would have pushed for us to go (I would have pushed for a stop in Hawaii for D&L's wedding while we were at it, too). This summer is gonna be crazy...and it all starts this weekend with summer wedding #1!
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
ready set go
It sounds ridiculous, but I have several "aesthetic" goals for the wedding:
1) Figure out how long it takes to grow my nails to an appropriate length
2) Do everything to avoid tan lines on my upper body
3) Be curvy!
4) Find the optimal eyebrow curve (this may include getting my eyebrows threaded, I haven't decided yet)
5) Keep my skin well moisturized
6) Exfoliate so my skin isn't all dry and flaky when I moisturize it
7) Figure out how to not be bloated and gross on my wedding day
Basically, I want to glow. I think that generally comes with the package when I'm a bride. I'm trying to increase my water intake and eat more fruits and veggies...to the point where I'm considering having more vegetarian meals to make sure I'm getting lots of vitamins. (It doesn't hurt that summer is the best time for veggies, and it's so stinkin' hot here in Boston that meat-heavy meals make you feel gross...unless it's a bbq. =)
I was trying to think about why it's easy to come up with these little things and obsess over my appearance...and I think it's because it's easier to plan these things because they have very tangible results. The harder part? Actually preparing to be a wife. Praying for my husband-to-be. Understanding the depth of God's intention for marriage. Making sure my inside is just as beautiful as outside, if not more. A few weeks ago the weight of getting married finally hit me (emotionally and mentally...I was a wreck for a couple days. "Everything's changing! Am I really ready for this??!") and now it's settling in. I hope I remember that being beautiful is more than just aesthetics.
Prayer for this would be greatly appreciated!
1) Figure out how long it takes to grow my nails to an appropriate length
2) Do everything to avoid tan lines on my upper body
3) Be curvy!
4) Find the optimal eyebrow curve (this may include getting my eyebrows threaded, I haven't decided yet)
5) Keep my skin well moisturized
6) Exfoliate so my skin isn't all dry and flaky when I moisturize it
7) Figure out how to not be bloated and gross on my wedding day
Basically, I want to glow. I think that generally comes with the package when I'm a bride. I'm trying to increase my water intake and eat more fruits and veggies...to the point where I'm considering having more vegetarian meals to make sure I'm getting lots of vitamins. (It doesn't hurt that summer is the best time for veggies, and it's so stinkin' hot here in Boston that meat-heavy meals make you feel gross...unless it's a bbq. =)
I was trying to think about why it's easy to come up with these little things and obsess over my appearance...and I think it's because it's easier to plan these things because they have very tangible results. The harder part? Actually preparing to be a wife. Praying for my husband-to-be. Understanding the depth of God's intention for marriage. Making sure my inside is just as beautiful as outside, if not more. A few weeks ago the weight of getting married finally hit me (emotionally and mentally...I was a wreck for a couple days. "Everything's changing!
Prayer for this would be greatly appreciated!
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
another night another dream but always you
My dreams are getting more specific now:
Last night the wedding was at a really nice, historic estate. Lots of people were there (lots of people that aren't on the invite list, I might add), and a bunch of them were rehearsing to sing at the wedding. My wedding coordinator told me that we were really lucky to have such talented people perform for us. It's true!
Anyway, it's, like, 3 hours before the wedding and I'm running around doing stuff, but a friend comes by and asks for my advice. He apparently just broke up with someone because they weren't going the same direction and he was thinking about dating one of my friends. He asks if I have time to explain what love is...and after thinking about it I tell him that part of love is wanting the best for the other person, no matter what sacrifices you have to make for yourself.
More people come to our wedding than we had planned, so parking is crazy. We end up using not only the regular parking lot, but filling up a nearby parking garage, as well. Thankfully we have two sons of my dad's friend volunteer to help with parking. (A reminder to ask them asap!)
Then I rush off to get ready. I'm upset because I forgot to get my dress cleaned and pressed (note to self!) and I'm wearing a black bra that shows a little bit on the top of the dress. Faux pas! Then my makeup and hair artists show up at 2pm when I told them that the wedding was supposed to start at 1. Apparently we moved it back to 3? Anyway, I had already started my makeup and it was all messy and gross, but they help fix it. My bridesmaids are nowhere near ready, and I'm panicked.
*sigh* That was the end of it. I woke up and was relieved that it wasn't my wedding day and we still had plenty of time to figure out these day-of details. Needless to say, I was very motivated to get stuff done this morning.
Last night the wedding was at a really nice, historic estate. Lots of people were there (lots of people that aren't on the invite list, I might add), and a bunch of them were rehearsing to sing at the wedding. My wedding coordinator told me that we were really lucky to have such talented people perform for us. It's true!
Anyway, it's, like, 3 hours before the wedding and I'm running around doing stuff, but a friend comes by and asks for my advice. He apparently just broke up with someone because they weren't going the same direction and he was thinking about dating one of my friends. He asks if I have time to explain what love is...and after thinking about it I tell him that part of love is wanting the best for the other person, no matter what sacrifices you have to make for yourself.
More people come to our wedding than we had planned, so parking is crazy. We end up using not only the regular parking lot, but filling up a nearby parking garage, as well. Thankfully we have two sons of my dad's friend volunteer to help with parking. (A reminder to ask them asap!)
Then I rush off to get ready. I'm upset because I forgot to get my dress cleaned and pressed (note to self!) and I'm wearing a black bra that shows a little bit on the top of the dress. Faux pas! Then my makeup and hair artists show up at 2pm when I told them that the wedding was supposed to start at 1. Apparently we moved it back to 3? Anyway, I had already started my makeup and it was all messy and gross, but they help fix it. My bridesmaids are nowhere near ready, and I'm panicked.
*sigh* That was the end of it. I woke up and was relieved that it wasn't my wedding day and we still had plenty of time to figure out these day-of details. Needless to say, I was very motivated to get stuff done this morning.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Whirlwind trip #2
Our last trip before the big day! I still have plenty of stuff to do when I go back a week before the wedding, but we took care of plenty of things this trip, too.
The California trip started with a trip to the County Clerk's office. We now have less than 90 days to get married! We applied for the license online, and it took all of 10 minutes to get the actual license.
We went to have lunch at our new banquet location, Great Harbor Seafood in Artesia, CA. The food was good (arguably better than the last place?) and the place was big enough but not too big. I think it'll be nice and cozy. It's a good thing that W speaks Mandarin because the woman in charge wouldn't speak to us in English. He was trying to get her to speak English but I told him to just speak to her in Mandarin. Luckily her brother came later and he spoke to us in English. I'm a little embarrassed by my handicap, but really, it just made me feel luckier to have W.
The next morning we tried cake- the banquet place provides cake from a Vietnamese bakery chain called Van's, but last time we tried Van's bakery it wasn't very impressive. We decided to just go with the Chinese bakery chain (Diamond Bakery) and got to taste three different cakes: yellow sponge cake with mango filling, yellow sponge cake with strawberry filling, and coffee cake with coffee cream filling. We decided to go with the safest option (strawberry filling). I'm not really particular about how the cake looks- you'll see when you see the cake at the banquet. It kinda matches my dress...I don't know if that's good or bad.
And then the bridal shower! Oh the bridal shower! I had no idea what to expect, but when I walked in there was a fantastic spread on the table, and a Scrubs theme! Complete with scrub pants, name badges, and music. I loved all the little details that went into it.
The girls had prepared make-your-own spring rolls, which was super yummy and nice cuz it was really interactive.
(my *other* teacher/lawyer/doctor combo- it's funny how I have one from youth group and one from WashU!)
And for dessert, the ever-so-famous Sprinkles cupcakes! They were SO good...W and I had one the next day and it was still really moist and yummy. Better than Magnolia!
No pictures of the gifts except for this one, which included four ribbons that I had to break. Apparently the number of ribbons you break is equivalent to how many kids you'll have. Sorry, W, I broke 5!
Thanks so much gals! I loved all the thought that went into the bridal shower, but I especially loved seeing everyone. I didn't realize how much I missed everyone until I saw them. It made me that much more excited for the wedding day!!!! I feel so loved!
The California trip started with a trip to the County Clerk's office. We now have less than 90 days to get married! We applied for the license online, and it took all of 10 minutes to get the actual license.
We went to have lunch at our new banquet location, Great Harbor Seafood in Artesia, CA. The food was good (arguably better than the last place?) and the place was big enough but not too big. I think it'll be nice and cozy. It's a good thing that W speaks Mandarin because the woman in charge wouldn't speak to us in English. He was trying to get her to speak English but I told him to just speak to her in Mandarin. Luckily her brother came later and he spoke to us in English. I'm a little embarrassed by my handicap, but really, it just made me feel luckier to have W.
The next morning we tried cake- the banquet place provides cake from a Vietnamese bakery chain called Van's, but last time we tried Van's bakery it wasn't very impressive. We decided to just go with the Chinese bakery chain (Diamond Bakery) and got to taste three different cakes: yellow sponge cake with mango filling, yellow sponge cake with strawberry filling, and coffee cake with coffee cream filling. We decided to go with the safest option (strawberry filling). I'm not really particular about how the cake looks- you'll see when you see the cake at the banquet. It kinda matches my dress...I don't know if that's good or bad.
And then the bridal shower! Oh the bridal shower! I had no idea what to expect, but when I walked in there was a fantastic spread on the table, and a Scrubs theme! Complete with scrub pants, name badges, and music. I loved all the little details that went into it.
The girls had prepared make-your-own spring rolls, which was super yummy and nice cuz it was really interactive.
(my *other* teacher/lawyer/doctor combo- it's funny how I have one from youth group and one from WashU!)
And for dessert, the ever-so-famous Sprinkles cupcakes! They were SO good...W and I had one the next day and it was still really moist and yummy. Better than Magnolia!
No pictures of the gifts except for this one, which included four ribbons that I had to break. Apparently the number of ribbons you break is equivalent to how many kids you'll have. Sorry, W, I broke 5!
Thanks so much gals! I loved all the thought that went into the bridal shower, but I especially loved seeing everyone. I didn't realize how much I missed everyone until I saw them. It made me that much more excited for the wedding day!!!! I feel so loved!
Friday, May 23, 2008
Anticipation
I'm in California with W and his sister right now, and I'm getting so antsy! We got our marriage license yesterday (which was really quick thanks to the online form!) and checked out the new banquet site (which we like...we think the food might be better than the last place). We're going cake tasting in a couple minutes at a Chinese bakery since we didn't really like the Vietnamese bakery. Things are moving along.
I think I'm antsy cuz I have no idea what's going on tonight! My bridesmaids are all in town and they're throwing me a bridal shower. My request was to have something low-key and not your typical bridal shower (sitting around, playing games, opening presents). Not that there's anything wrong with typical bridal showers, but they're not very "me." I know whatever it is will be fun, but I hate now knowing what's going on! It's okay...I trust my bridesmaids. The most I've heard is that I have some very "creative" bridesmaids, and it "should be fun" so I'm expecting something crazy. And there will be more than 10 people there. And I may or may not be sleeping over somewhere. I feel like the Friends episode ("The one where they're going to party") when Chandler and Ross have to be prepared for anything and everything when they go party with their friend Gandolf cuz you never know what will happen when you're with him. Better go get a snake-bite kit.
I think I'm antsy cuz I have no idea what's going on tonight! My bridesmaids are all in town and they're throwing me a bridal shower. My request was to have something low-key and not your typical bridal shower (sitting around, playing games, opening presents). Not that there's anything wrong with typical bridal showers, but they're not very "me." I know whatever it is will be fun, but I hate now knowing what's going on! It's okay...I trust my bridesmaids. The most I've heard is that I have some very "creative" bridesmaids, and it "should be fun" so I'm expecting something crazy. And there will be more than 10 people there. And I may or may not be sleeping over somewhere. I feel like the Friends episode ("The one where they're going to party") when Chandler and Ross have to be prepared for anything and everything when they go party with their friend Gandolf cuz you never know what will happen when you're with him. Better go get a snake-bite kit.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
lazy or smart?
Man...back in the day I was so ambitious about wedding stuff. If I had kept that momentum I would probably have a preposterous wedding (including a candy bar, a photo booth, and an In-n-out truck.) Memorable, but over-the-top.
I have to constantly remind myself that we don't have to go into debt to entertain our guests. Truth be told, most of our guests are adults who are capable of finding things to do. I wanted to plan lots of get-togethers, bonfires, bowling nights, Angels games...anything to maximize Southern California resources and my time with my friends. But I've realized that my friends have other friends, too (gasp!) and might not want to spend all that time with me since I'll be so frazzled anyway.
We have less than three months till the wedding, and that means less time to order extra things or give people notice about wedding events. We're frantically working on getting invitations out (did I mention that I'm now gonna make 30 invitations for W's relatives in Taiwan? By hand?) and getting ready for our trip to California this coming week. Man, May flew by! I was thinking "oh, it's fine, we have plenty of time!" but NO. It's our last trip out before I fly out the week before the wedding, so if things can get done, they're going to get done. And if they don't, we might just skip them all together.
Lazy? or smart? I'm thinking lazy now, but maybe not having so many details to worry about will help make that day a little less stressful. Thank goodness for my wedding coordinator...she doesn't want me to think/stress about ANYTHING that day, so I am trying my best to get every detail down so she can take charge. Relinquishing control...that's so not me!
***
In the meantime, it finally hit me the other day that my life is gonna change a lot after we get married. That sounds stupid, but it was all I could think about the other day. I was climbing into bed and then it hit me that soon I'm going to be sharing a bed with someone. And not just anyone, but my husband. And I'm gonna be cooking for him, cleaning OUR house, living with him...none of these are bad things, but it was just a huge reality check. It finally hit me that I'm getting married. It'll be W&T forever! Suddenly I won't just have my time- it'll be OUR time. I have to be selfless ALL the time, even on days where I don't like him or he's made me upset. I didn't get cold feet, but everything just started to set in more. I'm sure premarital counseling will contribute to this as well. Maybe it was just eerie because it seems like it's happening really soon.
I think another part of it was just overall sadness because so many things will be changing this summer. I've been physically preparing for things (like with bridal showers and farewell parties) but it hadn't hit me emotionally and mentally. It feels like graduation, when you know you won't see people anymore cuz everyone's going to do their own thing...except now it's marriage and school and other things that separate us.
***
I had a thought the other day...when we get married, does that bind me to the East Coast? Do I lose my privileges as a West Coaster?
I have to constantly remind myself that we don't have to go into debt to entertain our guests. Truth be told, most of our guests are adults who are capable of finding things to do. I wanted to plan lots of get-togethers, bonfires, bowling nights, Angels games...anything to maximize Southern California resources and my time with my friends. But I've realized that my friends have other friends, too (gasp!) and might not want to spend all that time with me since I'll be so frazzled anyway.
We have less than three months till the wedding, and that means less time to order extra things or give people notice about wedding events. We're frantically working on getting invitations out (did I mention that I'm now gonna make 30 invitations for W's relatives in Taiwan? By hand?) and getting ready for our trip to California this coming week. Man, May flew by! I was thinking "oh, it's fine, we have plenty of time!" but NO. It's our last trip out before I fly out the week before the wedding, so if things can get done, they're going to get done. And if they don't, we might just skip them all together.
Lazy? or smart? I'm thinking lazy now, but maybe not having so many details to worry about will help make that day a little less stressful. Thank goodness for my wedding coordinator...she doesn't want me to think/stress about ANYTHING that day, so I am trying my best to get every detail down so she can take charge. Relinquishing control...that's so not me!
***
In the meantime, it finally hit me the other day that my life is gonna change a lot after we get married. That sounds stupid, but it was all I could think about the other day. I was climbing into bed and then it hit me that soon I'm going to be sharing a bed with someone. And not just anyone, but my husband. And I'm gonna be cooking for him, cleaning OUR house, living with him...none of these are bad things, but it was just a huge reality check. It finally hit me that I'm getting married. It'll be W&T forever! Suddenly I won't just have my time- it'll be OUR time. I have to be selfless ALL the time, even on days where I don't like him or he's made me upset. I didn't get cold feet, but everything just started to set in more. I'm sure premarital counseling will contribute to this as well. Maybe it was just eerie because it seems like it's happening really soon.
I think another part of it was just overall sadness because so many things will be changing this summer. I've been physically preparing for things (like with bridal showers and farewell parties) but it hadn't hit me emotionally and mentally. It feels like graduation, when you know you won't see people anymore cuz everyone's going to do their own thing...except now it's marriage and school and other things that separate us.
***
I had a thought the other day...when we get married, does that bind me to the East Coast? Do I lose my privileges as a West Coaster?
Monday, May 12, 2008
a helpful dream
I know most wedding dreams are usually nightmares, but I had a really helpful dream last night. Bear with me:
For some reason we're getting married at a retreat center and having the dinner catered by a Chinese restaurant in the dining hall (this is my second wedding dream that happened in a retreat center in the woods...what does that mean?) Anyway, I'm all dressed to go but I realize:
1) My ex somehow made his way to our wedding. I see him in the hall when I'm on my way to the restroom to get ready and I'm upset. We don't interact, but I'm just mad that he had the gall to show up.
2) I forgot my earrings- luckily my wedding coordinator has an extra pair, but I only put on one of the earrings.
I walk down the aisle, and then all of a sudden I have an out-of-body experience! Instead of experiencing the wedding from the altar, I'm watching my wedding from the back corner. Memorable moments include: my dad leading worship, my dad having a scroll of our genealogy that's shaped like a bowling pin, our "thank you" to the parents being very sterile (like, we just bow, we don't hug them or anything), W's parents suddenly being Korean, and people crying during the wedding.
Anyway, after the wedding I talked to my coordinator and she says we can do it over, which makes sense to me because we never had a rehearsal. She gives me a list of things to remember, like:
1) Making sure I'm hydrated
2) Having folding chairs up front for the flower girls
3) Bringing my earrings
4) Brushing my teeth and mouth beforehand so my breath isn't gross
We try to coordinate when we can have the "actual wedding" and it has to be later that day or even the next day cuz we have to coordinate it around the banquet. But just as we're ending it starts raining and rain starts pouring into the sanctuary we were using. W and I make our way to the dining hall for the banquet and he tells me that my ex talked to him, they're on good terms, and he just happened to be in town for something else...he wasn't there to crash.
So random! I just had to write that down before I forgot all the details. Time to go to work.
For some reason we're getting married at a retreat center and having the dinner catered by a Chinese restaurant in the dining hall (this is my second wedding dream that happened in a retreat center in the woods...what does that mean?) Anyway, I'm all dressed to go but I realize:
1) My ex somehow made his way to our wedding. I see him in the hall when I'm on my way to the restroom to get ready and I'm upset. We don't interact, but I'm just mad that he had the gall to show up.
2) I forgot my earrings- luckily my wedding coordinator has an extra pair, but I only put on one of the earrings.
I walk down the aisle, and then all of a sudden I have an out-of-body experience! Instead of experiencing the wedding from the altar, I'm watching my wedding from the back corner. Memorable moments include: my dad leading worship, my dad having a scroll of our genealogy that's shaped like a bowling pin, our "thank you" to the parents being very sterile (like, we just bow, we don't hug them or anything), W's parents suddenly being Korean, and people crying during the wedding.
Anyway, after the wedding I talked to my coordinator and she says we can do it over, which makes sense to me because we never had a rehearsal. She gives me a list of things to remember, like:
1) Making sure I'm hydrated
2) Having folding chairs up front for the flower girls
3) Bringing my earrings
4) Brushing my teeth and mouth beforehand so my breath isn't gross
We try to coordinate when we can have the "actual wedding" and it has to be later that day or even the next day cuz we have to coordinate it around the banquet. But just as we're ending it starts raining and rain starts pouring into the sanctuary we were using. W and I make our way to the dining hall for the banquet and he tells me that my ex talked to him, they're on good terms, and he just happened to be in town for something else...he wasn't there to crash.
So random! I just had to write that down before I forgot all the details. Time to go to work.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
crunch time
I can't believe we have three months to go. Sometimes that feels like a long time, but most of the time it feels like it's too short. We just figured out that we have to make some kind of invitation in Chinese so W's relatives from Taiwan can apply for visas, and we finalized the new banquet location. I think. I left that up to my mom, so I should probably follow up on it sometime. We have to finalize the wording for our English invitations, too.
I got to see my bridesmaid dresses! My brother was in town so he brought Olivia's dress...it's WAY too big for her (trust me, Liv, it's gonna need some major alterations), but the color is exactly what we wanted. It looks really dark, but you can tell it's navy blue. I don't know what the rest of you girls think, but I think they look fine. I hope they're comfortable, too.
We'll be in California May 21-25, and while we're there we have to meet with my pastor, meet with our wedding coordinator, get fitted for my qipao, get our marriage license, go to my bridal shower, get my makeup trial done...goodness. I need to start prepping and make a huge list of things so we don't forget any important things.
On a less serious and frantic note, there's gonna be a rate change right when we send out our invitations. 42 cents! It's not that big of a deal, but the 42 cent stamps are not wedding appropriate!
Okay, the Minnesota one isn't bad, but we're not from Minnesota. SO WEIRD. Why couldn't they make pretty stamps like the flowers or doves or whatever? I could always get the old ones and add 1 cent stamps, but that's too much work. I think my laziness is starting to make a lot of decisions for me.
I got to see my bridesmaid dresses! My brother was in town so he brought Olivia's dress...it's WAY too big for her (trust me, Liv, it's gonna need some major alterations), but the color is exactly what we wanted. It looks really dark, but you can tell it's navy blue. I don't know what the rest of you girls think, but I think they look fine. I hope they're comfortable, too.
We'll be in California May 21-25, and while we're there we have to meet with my pastor, meet with our wedding coordinator, get fitted for my qipao, get our marriage license, go to my bridal shower, get my makeup trial done...goodness. I need to start prepping and make a huge list of things so we don't forget any important things.
On a less serious and frantic note, there's gonna be a rate change right when we send out our invitations. 42 cents! It's not that big of a deal, but the 42 cent stamps are not wedding appropriate!
Okay, the Minnesota one isn't bad, but we're not from Minnesota. SO WEIRD. Why couldn't they make pretty stamps like the flowers or doves or whatever? I could always get the old ones and add 1 cent stamps, but that's too much work. I think my laziness is starting to make a lot of decisions for me.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
the truth
Are people still willing to tell me the truth?
I feel like when it comes to weddings everyone knows not to mess with the bride. If the bride says something, DO IT. Do not argue with her, do not try and make things difficult for her, just do it.
But what if what I'm asking for is unbelievably unreasonable? What if it'll cost three times as much to do it that way as opposed to what was originally planned? What if it's a really bad idea?
W is good about being honest with me (he's shot down several ideas for the reception, which in retrospect weren't fantastic ideas to begin with) and several other friends have as well. I'm hoping that this is the trend so far- that yes, I'm a crazy bride, but I'm also a reasonable one. And I'd rather hear the truth than have something sugar-coated for me. You all can spread that rumor.
I'm not sure if that applies for the day of the wedding though...maybe that's the one time where I'm okay not knowing the whole truth. =) I'm kidding. Or, well, we'll see.
I feel like when it comes to weddings everyone knows not to mess with the bride. If the bride says something, DO IT. Do not argue with her, do not try and make things difficult for her, just do it.
But what if what I'm asking for is unbelievably unreasonable? What if it'll cost three times as much to do it that way as opposed to what was originally planned? What if it's a really bad idea?
W is good about being honest with me (he's shot down several ideas for the reception, which in retrospect weren't fantastic ideas to begin with) and several other friends have as well. I'm hoping that this is the trend so far- that yes, I'm a crazy bride, but I'm also a reasonable one. And I'd rather hear the truth than have something sugar-coated for me. You all can spread that rumor.
I'm not sure if that applies for the day of the wedding though...maybe that's the one time where I'm okay not knowing the whole truth. =) I'm kidding. Or, well, we'll see.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
My parents rock
Thanks so much for thinking of us and praying for us! Even though I'm sad we don't get the banquet hall with the ginormous dance floor, I'm thankful that it's not the WEDDING that's called off. I know we'll have a great time with everyone there, no matter where we are.
Seafood Palace sent us a formal letter to tell us that the banquet hall was closed, and they'll refund our deposit (whew!). My parents have been on the prowl for a new place...we have some good candidates, but they'd all require some compromises. One place has an awesome banquet menu but only seats 270, and the other can seat 300-400 people but the food sounds similar to Seafood Palace's menu (not true Chinese- more of a Vietnamese/Cambodian influence.)
I'm sooooo grateful that my parents are willing and able to look for a new site for us. Granted, they get to try food at all these restaurants, but still...they were really calm about it when I told them (even though I was on the verge of tears) and they're really positive that we'll be able to find a place even though it's almost May. Props to my sister, too, who called to make sure I was okay when she found out about the banquet hall. I've been at work the past couple days so I haven't been able to help with this process. Besides the fact that I'm on the East Coast- if I had a block of days off I would probably fly out to California to help, but things are getting way too busy over here.
In retrospect, Seafood Palace was still a great choice...I didn't have to worry about champagne, the cake, colors for decorations...everything was more or less provided. Once we decide on a place there'll be lots more decisions to make, but luckily we'll be out there Memorial Day weekend to take care of some of that. We're less than four months away!
Seafood Palace sent us a formal letter to tell us that the banquet hall was closed, and they'll refund our deposit (whew!). My parents have been on the prowl for a new place...we have some good candidates, but they'd all require some compromises. One place has an awesome banquet menu but only seats 270, and the other can seat 300-400 people but the food sounds similar to Seafood Palace's menu (not true Chinese- more of a Vietnamese/Cambodian influence.)
I'm sooooo grateful that my parents are willing and able to look for a new site for us. Granted, they get to try food at all these restaurants, but still...they were really calm about it when I told them (even though I was on the verge of tears) and they're really positive that we'll be able to find a place even though it's almost May. Props to my sister, too, who called to make sure I was okay when she found out about the banquet hall. I've been at work the past couple days so I haven't been able to help with this process. Besides the fact that I'm on the East Coast- if I had a block of days off I would probably fly out to California to help, but things are getting way too busy over here.
In retrospect, Seafood Palace was still a great choice...I didn't have to worry about champagne, the cake, colors for decorations...everything was more or less provided. Once we decide on a place there'll be lots more decisions to make, but luckily we'll be out there Memorial Day weekend to take care of some of that. We're less than four months away!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
!!!???$#%!?!?
WE LOST OUR BANQUET SPACE.
The coordinator at Seafood Palace said they're closing down their banquet location on July 31. Thankfully (W pointed this out, I obviously saw no good in this situation) they're able to save the date at their first location (Seafood Palace #1, which is your typical Chinese restaurant.)
I'm so upset right now, but luckily W's staying calm...we're looking up other places in OC or nearby that might be able to accommodate us on short notice. Our default is Seafood Palace #1, but at least now we have a chance to look for a place with better food. If that's even possible in this short a time.
HOLY FRICK. I am not happy. And I'm crazy tired from work, so that's twice as bad.
The coordinator at Seafood Palace said they're closing down their banquet location on July 31. Thankfully (W pointed this out, I obviously saw no good in this situation) they're able to save the date at their first location (Seafood Palace #1, which is your typical Chinese restaurant.)
I'm so upset right now, but luckily W's staying calm...we're looking up other places in OC or nearby that might be able to accommodate us on short notice. Our default is Seafood Palace #1, but at least now we have a chance to look for a place with better food. If that's even possible in this short a time.
HOLY FRICK. I am not happy. And I'm crazy tired from work, so that's twice as bad.
Monday, April 21, 2008
I before E
We had our first official pre-marital counseling session this weekend in New Jersey. It's slightly inconvenient to have to travel that far, but it's nice because it gives us time in the car to talk about things. We've been dating for quite awhile (almost 4 years!) so we weren't too surprised by each other's answers, but it was still good to flesh things out.
It's funny how you can talk about things in theory, but it's very different when you're actually faced with a situation. Pre-marital counseling is good preparation, but will we do everything we hoped to do when faced with an argument?
Oddly enough, while we were working on invitations tonight one of our major differences came to light: I am extroverted while W is very introverted. He doesn't like being the center of attention and talking with lots and lots of people wears him out. I love being the center of attention and I'm glad we're inviting a lot of people to the wedding because I want to share the joy with everyone.
Obviously I can't have a 10-person wedding, so what are ways that I can accommodate my introverted fiance? I know that day is going to be really tiring, so we're trying to space things out a little. I know the couple's attitude and mood can set the tone for the entire wedding, so I want both of us to be as happy and carefree as possible. Any suggestions are welcome!
It's funny how you can talk about things in theory, but it's very different when you're actually faced with a situation. Pre-marital counseling is good preparation, but will we do everything we hoped to do when faced with an argument?
Oddly enough, while we were working on invitations tonight one of our major differences came to light: I am extroverted while W is very introverted. He doesn't like being the center of attention and talking with lots and lots of people wears him out. I love being the center of attention and I'm glad we're inviting a lot of people to the wedding because I want to share the joy with everyone.
Obviously I can't have a 10-person wedding, so what are ways that I can accommodate my introverted fiance? I know that day is going to be really tiring, so we're trying to space things out a little. I know the couple's attitude and mood can set the tone for the entire wedding, so I want both of us to be as happy and carefree as possible. Any suggestions are welcome!
Monday, April 14, 2008
sorry, no can do
Our guest list is enormous. I told my cousin that I wanted the invitations to be simple, which she was fine with, but when she found out that we're inviting 500 people to the wedding she was like, "OH! No wonder you wanna keep it simple!" Yes. We're crazy. Our wedding is gonna be madness.
We sent out the save-the-date, and we've already found out that some people won't be able to make it (due to pregnancy, missions training, or school.) My question: Do we still send invitations to these people? Etiquette that I've learned is that if you get an invitation but don't attend you still need to send a gift. I don't want the people that can't make it to feel obligated to send a gift, especially because we knew well in advance that they wouldn't be able to make it. BUT I don't want to skip sending them an invitation just because they can't go. Is that weird? What's the right thing to do in this situation?
We sent out the save-the-date, and we've already found out that some people won't be able to make it (due to pregnancy, missions training, or school.) My question: Do we still send invitations to these people? Etiquette that I've learned is that if you get an invitation but don't attend you still need to send a gift. I don't want the people that can't make it to feel obligated to send a gift, especially because we knew well in advance that they wouldn't be able to make it. BUT I don't want to skip sending them an invitation just because they can't go. Is that weird? What's the right thing to do in this situation?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)