230 dtg!!!

Found the last pieces needed for the invitations. Now....to just get
them done!

Casey and I celebrated our last anniversary today! It's so exciting to
think that we'll be starting a new chapter and will have a new
anniversary to celebrate!

231 dtg!!!

Went to Safeway to check out the floral options available. The lady I
spoke to wasn't that helpful, but she did clue me in on one
unfortunate/annoying aspect of their floral dept.

Apparently, If they were to order calla lillies, they would get an
assortment of colors, or some random colors. In other words, you can't
really specify what you want color wise. She showed me a bouquet of
pink roses that had MANY different shades of pink. If I were to order
pink roses, or orange roses, this is the kind of jumbled thing that I
would get.

I guess that's the price you pay for going with safeway?

232 dtg!!!!

Casey and I met with Nona at Floral Design Studio in Fremont after work today. I heard great things about her so I was very excited to see what she had to offer.

It turned out to be a mixed bag. She was VERY nice and energetic........had great ideas, and wanted to show examples/pictures of everything. I felt very comfortable telling her what I wanted, or thought I would want.

However, budget wise, she came out around the same as The Flower House. There were some things that she offered that The Flower House didn't and vise versa........so I'm still not sure. I really like the look of the flowers that Nona described, and I could definitely see myself more comfortable with her, because I'm sure that I might end up changing my mind a couple times. Have you met me within the past few months? I can't decided on anything.

Nona did have some great tips, and even brought out a manzanita branch VERY similar to what I am going for......which was great for Casey. He had no idea what look I was trying to achieve. She even showed me how to make your own hanging votives with a glass votive, some ribbon and hot glue. MUCH cheaper than the $2 ones I found on the internet I think..........although I guess I'll have to factor it out.

More to ponder I guess.

233 dtg!!!!

Casey and I have debated many times about incoporating our movie love, but trying to do it without making it look cheesy.

Found at bridalbar.squarespace.com

I do like this version of the crystal tree......although, not the huge flowers.

Found at bridalbar.squarespace.com

I do like the use of the old movie reel.....it looks classy.

234 dtg!!!

Found this image at blog.mintjulepinc.com

I like this tablescape.....the tree centerpiece turned out nice, and the ferns/flowers around it make it look like a little forest. So cute!

235 dtg!!!!

• Calculated the items/prices for the decor needed. Turns out my mom's allotted budget will mainly go towards all the rentals. Casey and I will be handling the rest, with a little help here and there I'm sure.
• Bought the votive candles and holders online today.....pretty good when it comes out to .66 cents for each holder/candle combo.
• Actually and FINALLY found some reasonable hanging votive holders online for only $2 each. All the ones I have seen are $3-5 each and just too ornate.
  
• Was about to buy one of the string lights on eBay (just to try out and see if they were the right size) when I realized that they are located in San Jose! They are a Japanese/Chinese dollar store located on Deanza. So I can just toodle on down over there and take a look. If I end up buying them, I'll save on shipping! Whoo hoo!
• Researched on larger chinese lanterns that may be hung inside over the dance floor. Still not sure if that is actually what we are going to do, but just in the beginning stages of thinking how to dress up the ceiling inside the reception.
• Casey actually came up with a really cute/clever idea for a reception detail that ties in with our favorite things! I was so proud. :) We'll see what comes of that surprise.
  

236 dtg!!!

Here are some great pics of different styles of escort cards.
These are really cute and vintage.

Found at intimateweddings.com


I also love these, and having them in an old suitcase is cool.

Found at theknot.com


These are cool.......but a little more formal.....a little more boring.

Found at theknot.com

These are cute and whimsical......I love the graphics and the button.

Found at theknot.com

237 dtg!!!!

• Checked out the Pleasanton Rentals showroom, where we saw great products on display. After finding the color of fabric that I like for the overlay, I was disappointed that they would have to order it custom for the size I need.......$20 each. Ouch. So instead, we may end up using 2 sashes, one on each side of the runner. So that look may end up being enough. We will see!
• Visited with Jinger at the Flower House. She greeted us with no enthusiasm, as she was suffering from food poisoning or some sickness. So I wasn't able to get a good judge on her character and personality........because she did come off a little snooty. But for what we are looking for and the quality of work that she does, it is possible to get it around the $1000 budget that we are looking at. We have an appointment with Nona at the Floral Design Studio on Thursday, so we will see how that goes, and then maybe be able to make a decision.
• Had a great, delicious, elegant, fancy, delectable, tasty, mouth watering, fun, unbelievable dinner at the Firehouse with my family in Old Sacramento. We went there last year (which is actually when Casey asked my parents permission to marry me....aww) and I don't remember the food being this great! They had an amuse bouche, a palette cleansing sorbet, delicious salad and entree with dessert and a truffle at the end. I couldn't believe it. Everything was wonderful!
• Updated our wedding website at theknot.com. Apparently, they upgraded their software, so the website has a much more elaborate look to it, with different pages and the ability to add more pictures. Which made me realize........................ Casey and I don't have very many pictures together. At least pictures that I like. Out of all the 12 pictures of us, I maybe like 3 or 4. Can't wait for the engagement picture session!
  

238 dtg!!!!

Well, tomorrow we meet with one of our potential florists......although I really doubt we'll end up choosing them after hearing about their prices and bad reviews by yelpers. We'll see how it goes!

But since we are going to be meeting with others, and going over colors and options, I figured it might be a good idea to go over everything with Casey, just so we're on the same page. Coz you know there would definitely be some awkward argument or moment, where I have this vision and the vendor is agreeing with me, but Casey is way out of the loop and just doesn't like it.....no bueno. So, to avoid that, we had a little chat.

We are pretty much on the same page......however, there are some definite things he doesn't like.....like the second to last post, with all the hanging ribbon from the trellis. He hates that........thinks it looks like someone toilet papered the place, which after he stated that, I kinda agree.

We agree on the flower arrangements that I like........although he apparently could care less, but still gives his opinion, which is nice if I'm on the fence about it.

So along with the florist, we'll also stop by one of the rental showrooms in Pleasanton to look at vases and linen colors.



AND.......he was such a great fiancee that he even took me to see a chick flick....He's Just Not That Into You. Very cute.

239 dtg!!!!

It's cool to see how other people design centerpieces with branches. I really like the shiny black of these branches, and while the glass balls are really cool and shiny.......they'd be a little much for me.

I am still debating on which color of flowers to intertwine on the branches......I figured either white, or purple......I like the purple actually!

I think it's cool how the bride has the colored bouquet, and the bridesmaids have the white bouquets. I wonder if that is less expensive? It looks cool against the black dresses, and since that's what I'm having.........hmmmmm.
I also think that the hydrangea petals submerged in the vase is a really cool idea!

(Click on image to enlarge)
I found all of these great pics at Dana Grant's Photography Blog.

240 dtg!!!!

I totally had thought about doing something similar hanging from the trellis/altar where we will be married. The amount ribbon hanging just adds such a dramatic effect. I found the picture from Project Wedding Blog, where they mentioned that you can get major ribbon in bulk. Will have to check that out! I'm all about doing cool things for cheap....

241 dtg!!!!

I like the manzanita centerpiece at this table....very elegant and whimsical.

I incorporate a lot of vintage stuff into my art work, so I loved these vintage postcards. Could possibly play on this idea for our guest book.

This is also a cool idea for escort cards. Not as formal, but fun....probably better than everyone hovering over one table?

242 dtg!!!!

I was determined to find some deals on the internet today.....so who did I turn to? Ikea of course!

These bags of sand or stones for $2 would be great for on the bottom of centerpieces. The purple especially, or white or black!

This lantern I could see being used along the aisle....it would need to be hung from one of those shepherd rods....this lantern is $14.

This is quite a modern chandelier, but I like the addition of the crystals hanging from the bottom. I think it would be cool to use a different colored candle. $15 for the chandelier.

Now, this lantern is not as decorative, but for only $3...who could complain!

243 dtg!!!!

Found this great idea......which I think will still look great, and save money if we have to when it comes to the flowers. Make your own tissue paper pomanders and flowers!

I could totally see using it in the ceremony, since it will not be seen for very long, and what's the point of spending so much money on flowers that you'll only see for 20 minutes?

Totally something that could be done with the girls during a craft night!

244 dtg!!!

I have forgotten about all the other blogs that are out in the world that have so many great pictures and ideas.........so much inspiration!

This is totally the color combo that I am going for when it comes to adding the purple.......although I won't have THAT much.

LOVE that green flower....I think that's a mum?

More pics of the hanging mason jars with candles....love the look.

There are so many more blogs...........I'm sure I'll be back with more tomorrow.

245 dtg!!!!

Today is my birthday! Today is also the anniversary of my first date with Casey.......5 years ago. Where we went miniature golfing and to a movie..........but instead, today we ran a bunch of errands.

Had Breakfast at Hobees.
Went and got Casey a new sharks hat.
Checked at Best Buy #1 if they had the car stereo that I wanted.
Checked at Best Buy #2 if they had the car stereo that I wanted.
Went to Santana Row to shop for me, and have a french coffee/treat at a cafe. C'est tres chic!
Checked at Best Buy #3 if they had the car stereo that I wanted, and got so fed up with them, that we almost gave up.
Checked at Circuit City's closeout sale to find the model that I originally wanted for $50 less.....SCORE!!!
Went to Downtown Mountain View to get Casey a new garage door opener.
Got the stereo installed at Bay Car Audio.
Watched some of the Sharks game.....which they ended up losing.
Went out to dinner with my girlfriends for drinks where I got VERY tipsy, but had a great time!





So that is how I spent my 24th birthday and somewhat 5 year anniversary with Casey.
It was a great day. :)

246 dtg!!

I received the crystals today. Not quite what I had though but it definitely will make a difference when hung on the tree and lit up.... That's definitely the next step..... Build the boxes and spray paint the branches.

247 dtg!!!

I like this idea for the trellis/altar too.... I know I wanna hang

something. I just don't know what.

248 dtg!!!

This was one of the first pictures I ever collected as a inspiration for my wedding. I just love the romantic glow of the lights.

249 dtg!!!

It is amazing the amount of money that people spend on their weddings.

I was watching Platinum Weddings on the WE channel, and man! There was a young couple on there, that didn't seem all that special/famous..... But who knows what their parents did!

She bought a $11,000 dress and had a $7,000 veil custom made..... The hors doeurves alone were $30,000 and the food/beverages in the ballroom cost $100,000........ That's just insane.

250 dtg!!!

Bought some crystals today to try out for the mock up of the manzanita tree. Should arrive in 2-3 days.... Then I'll be able to see if I like the look, how many I will need and what the cost will come to.... I'll probably only do 4-5 trees.

Www.crystalier.com - great website and much better prices than www.jamaligarden.com

251 dtg!!!!

• Tried "Sprinkles" cupcakes in Palo Alto today. Got to try 6 different flavors, but none of them really stood out to Casey and I. Still a couple bakeries left to try, but Kara's is still at the top.

• Received another Brides magazine in the mail today. It's unfortunate that 90% of the magazines are dresses, because I am already done in that department. So trying to find useful info can be difficult at times. But they did have a list of the "75 top wedding websites"!! Some that peaked my interest were, myglassslipper.com (shoes), emitations.com (jewelry), save-on-crafts.com (for decor), partymosaic.com (linens) and photostamps.com (customized postage stamps!)

• In the magazine, there was an article on a real wedding that took place last year in October. The groom wore the same tux, she had similar color palette, and some similar flower choices! It was so weird, but also cool to see if all of my ideas will go together.

• I totally forgot about my love for these plants/flowers...... aeoniums! I saw a centerpiece in the magazine that included these and they totally go with the color scheme. I don't think I would use them on the tables though.....probably on an accent table maybe......or just outside. They even come in deep, dark purple!

252 dtg!!!!

• Spent over an hour in Barnes & Noble this morning reading The Wedding Book by Mindy Weiss.....got some ideas, took some notes
  
• Found crystals at Michael's today....both for decorating the tables and hanging in the manzanita centerpieces.
• Discovered the name of the last paper I need for the invitations......now I can order them through work.
• Discovered where to get the best deal for candles online...... candles4less.com
• After doing some research for our favors, I truly agree that the wedding industry is such a joke. We need small boxes and labels. At beau-coup.com (which is a well known, highly advertised wedding favor site), they have 100 labels for $50...which actually is the best price that I have found. But their boxes are outrageous! 100 boxes for $80, whereas I found the same exact thing at an online packaging site......100 white boxes for $12!!!!!!!! Such a markup at the wedding sites. It's amazing.
• Good thing I know how to do my homework.

253 dtg!!!!

So, I've decided to enlist my FFIL to help me build/design the cupcake tier/tower. I figure we can make something way cooler/more my style compared to the ones that you rent from the companies. It's just a matter of designing it now.

Do I go with a square or round tier? I think the square is much more modern, and if I was going to go with a cake, it would be square I think.

Possibilities are endless.

254 dtg!!!!

So, I was browsing for pictures of decor, and photography in general, and found these from a wedding in Half Moon Bay. They really captured some great shots of this couple who look so in love!

This ceremony site is so beautiful, I always thought it was kinda weird though how it was so close to the hotel....not a lot of privacy.

And then I saw this picture and just loved the composition, and the look on the groom's face, and realized hey! That's Eric Byrnes! And he's wearing a tee shirt!!! Well, I'm sure it's a very nice, expensive tee, but come on!It still is beautiful though. They had what looked like a gorgeous wedding.

255 dtg!!!

I have heard plenty about this....and this video is hilarious.

256 dtg!!!!

After not hearing from our "coordinator" Becky at Martinelli, we started to get worried that we were involved in a shady deal. I even went onto yelp.com and read some not so great reviews about their "horrific staff" and then got VERY worried. So Casey put on his manly, empowering cape and called them up.

Turns out that Becky doesn't work there anymore. Thanks for telling us I guess!

We now have Jacquelyne as our coordinator, and having a meeting with her the morning of the 21st. Just to go over basics and get the ball rolling and such. Hopefully there will not be any major problems. That usually doesn't happen to me. I have pretty good luck, until I met Casey. Hahahah, I'm just kidding.

257 dtg!!!

Pretty parrot tulips. Love these!!! Could totally see these being used

somewhere at the bar or on an accent table.