Brown-Eyed Southern Bride

It's Crunch Time

2009-12-08T19:59:00.000-08:00

OMG!! It is 6 months to the wedding, which means...........Major Crunch Time!! I can't believe that the wedding is right around the corner, and there are so many things to be done. Over the next few weeks, I will be in major wedding planning mode, so please forgive me if the posts become less and less. I have found some amazing wedding goodies, so I hope to be able to share some of those with you. My checklist has about 30 things on it for this month, and I need to check them all off by January 1st. Wish me luck!

Soon To Be Turkey Day

2009-11-23T20:23:00.000-08:00

I am so excited that the holidays are here. As a soon to be married woman, my fiance and I will be hosting Thanksgiving at our new home. We are so excited to have the family over to celebrate with us. I feel like planning for Thanksgiving dinner is like planning my wedding. You have to have the perfect menu, the perfect drinks, and an atmosphere full of fun and positive energy. So I say.....Bring it on!

In Need of Inspiration

2009-11-19T20:46:00.000-08:00

Today, I am looking for inspiration for the food at the cocktail hour. We had recently made our choices, however, we aren't feeling like the food is representative of the atmosphere. So, over the next few weeks, look for some posts on inspiration for the cocktail hour food. Any suggestions that are fun, delicious, and gorgeous, would be so appreciated!

I Love Vera!!

2009-11-18T20:09:00.001-08:00

Yesterday, I posted the wedding photo of Lamar and Khloe, and today I have to start off by saying.........."I LOVE VERA!! Vera Wang never disappoints and the Kardashian girls look amazing in their Vera Wang gowns. From the rich colors, to the the classic fabrics, these are Vera Wang show stoppers. Thanks for the inspiration Vera!

The Odums

2009-11-17T20:10:00.000-08:00

Rather you believe in love at first site, love in a month, or love after a ten year span, it is quite clear that one of the weddings of the year would have to be the wedding between Khloe Kardashian and Lamar Odum. We obviously don't know the love that is shared between the two of them, however, they put on one heck of a wedding. With the purple hues, the white flowers, and the modern reception decor, this was one unforgettable wedding. I look forward to sharing the wedding photos with those who have yet to see them, but for now, here is the first photo of the couple, after becoming husband and wife!!

My Day

2009-11-16T20:58:00.000-08:00

Bride Wars

Hello everyone! WARNING!!! THIS IS NOT A JOKE!! I am back, and I want to say thank you to all of the messages that I have gotten from people that have been following the blog. I really appreciate everything! You have no idea. The month of October for me, to be honest, was a very hard month, but I am back!! One thing about planning a wedding is that everyone wants it to be their wedding and offer their opinions. However, at the end of the day, to all of the brides out there, IT IS YOUR WEDDING!! So today, I am claiming my wedding day, my decisions, and my happiness!! For all who want to join, I am so happy that you want to be apart of it, and for those who don't, I am happy with that too. This blog started off being a way that I could allow my family, friends, and new friends into my wedding day, and also, a way that I could express myself. I have allowed distractions and other's opinions to get in the way of something that I love doing, which is this blog and planning my wedding day. I have so many new friends, and this blog is really an outlet for me. So for the drama of October and anymore drama to come, Goodbye! I am focusing on my wedding day, and the happiness that awaits me today, tomorrow, and happily ever after!

The Rehearsal Dinner

2009-10-06T19:46:00.001-07:00

Photo Credit: My Gatsby

I completely forgot to mention that we also found our rehearsal dinner site!! Yay! I am so excited. We looked at so many different places. We knew the type of atmosphere that we were going for, but it seemed that we weren't going to find it. However, during an extremely productive weekend, we found an amazing place. The food was so wonderful, the atmosphere was great, and the service was outstanding!! Another check mark on the wedding planning to do list!

1 Year Engaged

2009-10-05T20:03:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, October 3, my fabulous fiance and I celebrated one year of engagement. It was so exciting to think back on our special moment. Time goes by so fast, and I know that we have both enjoyed each and every moment of this past year, as the soon to be Mr. and Mrs. Williams. There are so many things that made our proposal special for us. Everything about it was just "us"!! I was totally surprised by the proposal. It wasn't something that I was waiting on or a proposal that we had created together. It was so genuine and special, and I was so happy to say "Yes" to a lifetime with him. So many times, life can become about creating that "hollywood" moment, in order to capture a great story for everyone else, however, our proposal was a moment that was created for us, yet shared and loved by us. And to top it off, there was a beautiful ring..........one that I had dreamed of, since I was a teenager. What an amazing moment. Here's to the wedding day to come, where we will officially become husband and wife.

Sheek Elegance

2009-10-01T20:29:00.000-07:00

Two weekends ago, I went home to do some additional wedding stuff, and I got so much done!! One of my major goals was to find a gorgeous bridesmaids dress, and I did! I was happy, mom was happy, and my girls were happy!! The dress is everything that I wanted in a dress for my favorite girls. It is classy, sexy, sheek, and amazing! Fabulous!

Miami Wedding Decor

2009-09-28T19:42:00.000-07:00

The decor at the wedding was so beautiful!! From the rich colors, to the gorgeous flowers, this wedding was put together so well. What an amazing look for this gorgeous space! Enjoy!

Miami Ceremony.....

2009-09-24T19:47:00.000-07:00

The ceremony was absolutely gorgeous. Filled with love, tradition, and family. These two were meant to be. The father of the bride officiated the ceremony, and each person in the room, held on to every word that he spoke, along with the heartfelt vows of the bride and groom! Enjoy and more to come!

Here Comes The Bride

2009-09-21T20:08:00.000-07:00

Okay, okay, I know that I have been promising the photos from the wedding that we went to in Miami! And I am keeping my promise. I have been so busy lately, that I didn't even have time to upload the photos onto my computer. So, just to tease you, here is an amazing photo of the bride and her father, right before she is about to walk down the aisle. What a beautiful moment! Simply perfect!!

The Bridal Bar

2009-09-14T20:43:00.001-07:00

The Bridal Bar is a fantastic resource for "all things bride". If you are looking for lounge furniture, lighting, photography, whatever it is.....They Have It!! For all of the Atlanta brides, The Bridal Bar just recently opened, so stop in or drop by their website at www.bridalbar.com for all of your wedding planning. Happy Planning!!

9 Years Going Strong

2009-09-10T20:53:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit: Ben Chrisman Photography

I know that I am supposed to be sharing photos from the wedding that we went to this past weekend, but I have some other exciting news to share. Today, September 10, 2009, is 9 years that my fabulous fiance and I have been dating! I am so blessed to say that I have had this gorgeous man in my life for this many years. Today I have thought back to so many times that we have spent together and how our relationship has been blessed throughout these years. I can think back to our very first date, and the day that we made this beautiful relationship of ours "official". Next year at this time, I will be calling my fabulous fiance my husband, and I can't wait. What an incredible journey it has been so far, and I can't wait to start the journey as husband and wife, for the rest of our lives.

A Gorgeous Venue

2009-09-09T20:20:00.000-07:00

The Spanish Monastery

As you know, the fabulous fiance and I, not only went on vacation this past week, but we also attended a beautiful wedding. Not only was the wedding, far from home, the venue, was far from your "typical" venue. The wedding ceremony and reception were held at the Spanish Monastery in Miami, FL and it was absolutely gorgeous. It was truly a beauty. I wanted to share photos of this amazing space, and can't wait to share my actual photos with you, very soon! Hope you enjoy!

I'm Back

2009-09-08T21:03:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit: Ross Oscar Knight Photography

I am back!! My fiance and I really enjoyed our mini vacation. We really needed the time away and the time to spend together. Time is flying by, and the countdown is really on to our special day. It is really just right around the corner. Yay!! I can't wait to share the fantastic photos that I captured from the beautiful wedding that we attended this weekend. It was such a great time, filled with love, family, and happily ever after!

Mini Vacation

2009-08-31T21:42:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit: Carlos Baez

So, for the next week or so, I will be taking a break from the blogging world. The fabulous fiance and I are actually going to take a mini vacation down to South Beach. It is much needed, and we are so excited to have some time together. But what would a mini vacation be without......A Wedding! Yay! So, I will have lots of beautiful pictures and inspiration to share. Look forward to catching up with you all in about a week.

-"Rather it be a good day, a bad day, or a wedding day, let a smile always light and shine upon your face. For it is the day, we should all be grateful for!!"

Beautiful Bridesmaids

2009-08-27T20:45:00.000-07:00

Celebrity Bride Guide

Tomorrow, we will be trying on bridesmaids dresses for the second time. I am so excited. I can't wait to find the beautiful gowns that my girls will be wearing on my wedding day. We found several gowns on the first trip, and we are hoping to be able to narrow down the choices and find "the one"!! It is so important to me that all of my friends are happy and feel beautiful. This should be a special day for them, as well. I will be sure to keep you posted on the gowns that we find. Til then, here are some gorgeous celebrity bridesmaids and their beautiful gowns.

Peacock Color Creations

2009-08-26T20:55:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit: Studio Wed

As you know, the main colors for our wedding are champagne and ivory!! The ceremony will feature a sea of these colors. However, we will be bringing in some color for both the cocktail hour and the reception. While we won't have a huge variety of colors, I am so in love with the variety of colors in the peacock feather. My dining room is actually decorated with colors from the peacock. So, when I saw these photos, I was so inspired by the colors, and will definitely be using some of the peacock color inspiration throughout the wedding. Where? You will have to wait and see, but it will be beautiful.

Universal Fashion

2009-08-25T20:01:00.001-07:00

Miss Universe Pageant 2009

I have never been a huge pageant girl, but I love to watch them. They are so much fun and exciting to watch, and you get fantastic ideas for your wedding. I love to look at the styles of the gowns, the expressions on the girl's faces, and the gorgeous hairstyles! I have looked at a million websites, searching for the perfect hairstyle, and I fell in love with the hairstyle that Miss Universe 2008 wore for her final walk. It was just gorgeous! And the expression on the new Miss Universe's face is the expression every bride should have when she is about to marry the man of her dreams.

Time for Favors!

2009-08-21T20:03:00.000-07:00

After our engagement party was over, we sent our friends and family home with love, memories, and chocolate chip or peanut butter cookie favors. For any bride that is having an engagement party, I definitely recommend having a favor for your guest to take home. It is a great way to end the evening and a yummy treat that your guests can either eat on the ride home or save it for later! There are so many different things that you can do for favors, but the most important part is choosing something that both you and your guests will LOVE!! For our favors, we chose to have cookies that we put in clear bags, and tied with our North Carolina blue string. We had cute little stickers made that went on each bag and read, Takila and Chris, 8-8-09. What an amazing day, and we thank everyone in our lives, that came and made this day so memorable.

An Instant Family

2009-08-20T20:54:00.000-07:00

Our Beautiful Moms
Chris and I with our parents

No one could figure out which camera! :)

The entire crew! The Wilsons, Williams, & Deans

Our party meant so many wonderful things to us. It was the celebration of our engagement, the celebration of our new home, and it was the first time that our families met. Yes, the first time, and it was absolutely amazing. We were so excited and blessed to be able to have both of our families in the same room together, talking, laughing, bonding, and celebrating together. My brother was married two years ago, and his new inlaws also joined us for the party. It was as if everyone had been both friends and family for years. We are so looking forward to the many parties, family gatherings, and of course, the wedding day, to share in the love that we all have for one another!! Cheers!

More Fabulous Party Food

2009-08-19T20:31:00.000-07:00

There just aren't words to describe just how much fun we had at our engagement/housewarming party. It was unbelievable. And the food, most importantly, was so good that I couldn't even put it into words. So here are a few more pictures of the food at our party. Can't wait to share more pics from the party! Our guests were just as fabulous! Enjoy! Yummy! This post should have came with a WARNING!!! :)

Fabulous Party Food

2009-08-12T20:00:00.000-07:00

Early Morning Party Food Preparation

My mom and I thought and thought about the menu that we would have for our party. There are so many things that go into choosing your food for any party. First, you have to consider the people that are coming, Second, you should consider the time, and Third you have to consider that whatever food you have, it should be FABULOUS!! My mother was absolutely amazing. She worked so hard on the food for the party, and my soon to be mother in law showed up with some fabulous surprises. We had the perfect party, the perfect guest, and the perfect food!! There are more photos to come!!

Party Party Party!!

2009-08-11T20:57:00.001-07:00

This weekend was absolutely amazing! We had our engagement/housewarming party where our families met for the first time!! Yes! You did read that right! Our families met for the very first time in 9 years, and it could not have went better. There is nothing like getting all of your friends and family together in the same place and celebrating the love that you and your significant other have for one another. I can't wait to share all of the details of our party. It was truly amazing!!

Themed Engagement Party

2009-08-03T20:42:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, this weekend, we will be having our engagement/housewarming party. We are really excited for this time in our lives. There are so many different ideas for engagement parties and housewarming parties. One of the popular things that brides and grooms are doing today is combining their parties, just as we are. Our families both live out of town, along with over half of our close friends. So, it was really important for us to make things convenient for our guests, and have a great time in our new home.Many couples decide to have a theme for their parties, just as they do for their weddings. So, for all of you themed brides our there, here are a few ideas for themed engagement parties.

* Beach themed with Pina Coladas and grass skirts

* A night out in Paris with wine, stars and romance

* A country boil or barbecue with cowboy boots, cowboy hats and lots of straw

* And for the sports fans, nothing like having a party with your mascot everywhere GO DAWGS!

Whichever theme you choose, I am sure it will be a blast and a night to remember. I can't wait to share everything about our party! So, to the party to come.....CHEERS!!

Bridal Salons...One Apple

2009-07-29T20:39:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit: Blue Orchid Blog

There's one place that every bride will end up at some point during the wedding planning process and that is..........a bridal salon. There are so many wonderful salons across each state, with dream gowns, sparkly tiaras, and smiles all over the place. Unfortunately, just like everything else, there can always be one bad apple that spoils the bunch. Here in Charlotte, one of the well known bridal salons has closed up shop, leaving several brides, both out of money and out of their dream wedding gown. For brides, it's not about the money, it's about the fact that many of these brides had found the dress that they were going to marry the man of their dreams in. Many of these brides have layed in bed at night picturing themselves walking down the aisle to their groom to say I do, and the people that should care, they don't! Please say a prayer for these brides because no bride would want to be in their place. There is enough stress just getting to the day. So, to all of the brides that this has affected in Charlotte, please know that we do care, and to the owner of the shop, who refuses to take calls from these brides and is hiding behind his sunglasses, shame on you!!

A New Friend

2009-07-28T21:37:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit: The Wedding Planner

This past Thursday was my first Atlanta planning day in a while! I got up at 4am, in order to make the drive down to Atlanta and get some things done. My mom, being the wonderful mother that she is, took the day off, to be my right hand woman. I was so excited about the day that we had planned because it was all about making things happen and getting things done!! I was so excited to finally meet my planner!! She is exactly what I was looking for in a planner, and I am so excited that she will be taking care of things on my wedding day. There is nothing like feeling total confidence in the person that is going to handle your special day, and I totally feel that in my planner. She is everything that we were looking for. I think, most importantly, that your planner should become like a trusted friend because I feel that you will have that same confidence in them, as you would your BFF!! So, for any brides in the Atlanta area searching for a planner, feel free to shoot me an e-mail or message and I will be glad to "hook you up", with not just a planner, but a friend!!

It Is Here

2009-07-27T20:01:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit: Style.com

After about 6 months, it is finally here!!! I am talking about my gorgeous wedding gown. I am so excited! Words cannot begin to describe. I wasn't sure how I would feel when the gown came in because you don't want to spend everyday contemplating its arrival. So, today was just perfect. As soon as I saw the name of the bridal salon on my phone, I new that my beauty had arrived. I can't wait to get together with my mother and try on my beautiful wedding gown. I am sure that there will be tears coming from everywhere. There is nothing that can really prepare you for this entire process, so the best thing is to just go with the flow and enjoy every single moment!! I am taking it all in and smiling, laughing, and loving each and every day!

50 Yard Dash

2009-07-17T19:14:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit: Brides.com

Again, sorry for another delay.....I have been away in the great state of New Jersey taking a training course for work. The fabulous fiance and I are spending a weekend in New York City to take a break from wedding planning, house stuff, and to be honest, we just need some time together . However, I couldn't resist telling you about my 50 yard dash down the middle of Times Square! A girl will jump through hoops to get some goods for her blog. Yes I will!! So the fabulous fiance and I are walking through Times Square and standing right in front of us are a bride and groom, who were just married! She was so beautiful and they were so happy! It was written all over their faces. For once in my life, I knew exactly what it felt like to be the paparazzi!! I immediately grabbed my camera and took off in a crazy sprint, just to grab the photo. The fiance, by the way, was on the other hand, running along! Hehe!! And of course, I got it! The picture looks to be one of Sex In The City, but it was actually Takila In The City! I will post the few pictures that I got, when I get back home, but I couldn't resist sharing this story! We'll let the one above do for now. Just goes to show, that wedding planning, never ends! Even when you are on a mini vacation, you may wind up running through the middle of Times Square, trying to grab some special brides photo and loving every minute of it!!

Brides, Brides, Brides

2009-07-13T18:24:00.000-07:00

I am in New Jersey this week for a meeting, and it is so refreshing to have girls to talk to about wedding stuff. Every other person seems to be either recently engaged, a few months away from their wedding, or a few months actually married!! I love it! To hear all of the bridal experiences, from all angles, is just great. I have talked to women who planned a wedding for 500+ people in 5 months, brides who just got back from the honeymoon of their dreams, and one gorgeous bride, who is going through all of this chaos, just because the man of her dreams wants his dream wedding. Sometimes we brides just need someone to listen and feel our pain. Sometimes we want someone to just understand what we are going through. And sometimes we want someone to understand the feeling of just saying, "Honey, let's just run off together and do this"! But then brings you back to reality because both of your moms would kill you!!

We Registered!

2009-07-10T21:17:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit: Instyle Weddings

Today the fabulous fiance and I created our first wedding registry. Yay! I wasn't quite sure how the experience would go, but needless to say, it was a lot of fun! Of course, I ended up picking out the majority of things, with the fabulous fiance agreeing or reminding me that we already have one of those! :) There are so many places to choose from when creating a wedding registry, so it is best to take your time and register at a place that you really enjoy and a place that has lots of "wants and needs"!! While a lot of the stores will allow you to register online, it is absolutely worth it it to go with your fiance and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Check

2009-07-08T18:56:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit: Instyle Weddings

There are so many wonderful resources out there for us brides. So many, that often times, it can become extremely overwhelming. You are always wondering what is the best, what will make this process easier, and which will not stress me out. Being a bride, that is planning an out of town wedding, it was so important to have a checklist that just really worked for me. I was really looking for something simple and organized, and I have found it.

If you are looking for a checklist that covers everything and really makes you feel stress free, please check our Russell Hazel Ideas. You will not be disappointed and you will save yourself, your mother, and your planner a lot of stress. So, enjoy checking all of those to dos off of your list. I sure have been.

Our First DIY

2009-07-07T19:30:00.000-07:00

This week has been all about the engagement party invites. There are so many different invites out there, so you really have to have an idea of what you are looking for. I cannot begin to tell you just how many invitations I looked at, and including the ones that my mom looked at, I'd say we were batting a thousand. We are actually combining our housewarming and engagement party. Most of our family and friends live out of town, so we wanted to make things more convenient for them. I have been putting together invites all week and tomorrow I will be working on the inserts! Yay!! Funny thing is, after looking at all of the engagement party invites, we actually ended up creating our very own invite!! And they are so adorable! So, you can add our engagement party invites as our first DIY project!

Photo Credit: Wedding Paper Divas

Photo Credit: Fun & Sassy Designs

Photo Credit: Wedding Paper Divas

What An Amazing 4th

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

Words can not begin to describe what an amazing 4th of July weekend we had. It was so fantastic to have our family in Charlotte, for the weekend, celebrating the 4th of July and spending time with one another. We had several things planned, on a to do list, for the wedding, however, those plans quickly got cancelled, due to all of the fun that we were all having. We did however, get our engagement party invites printed, thanks to my mom. They are so cute. I can't wait to share them with you. This weekend really reinforced one thing for me, and that is the fact that all you really need around you is your family. They will love you no matter what, and will support your life and love with the man of your dreams

Champagne Cheers

2009-07-01T21:09:00.001-07:00

One of the things that we have recently made a decision on is our linens. This was the first appointment that the fabulous fiance was really involved in "hands on"!! Being that the colors of our wedding are very neutral, with ivory and champagne being the main colors, we wanted to stick with that same concept for our linens. A lot of times, you can really over do it in the space, and we don't want to take away from the beautiful details and color that the Biltmore has. We decided to go with a champagne linen for the reception. As soon as I saw it, I knew it was the one. The color is perfect and it looks so elegant on the table. And to top it off, the fabulous fiance was totally in agreement! Yay!! We have a little something different for the cocktail hour, but please look for our inspiration throughout the entire wedding. One thing is now checked off of the list..........Only a million more to go!! Cheers.

Live It Off The Wall

2009-06-29T20:48:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, I have been MIA!! For the past few weeks, I haven't had one extra minute to do anything......but I am back. It is full steam ahead for the wedding planning! We have made more decisions with the wedding, and we are, of course, making decisions daily. I have to take a moment to say that we will miss Michael Jackson so much!! Last Thursday was a heartbreaking day for fans of Michael Jackson, all over the world. We have celebrated his amazing talent and his humanitarian spirit for decades. His music has filled millions of wedding receptions, and has brought a tear or two to many eyes during wedding ceremonies. My fabulous fiance and I had so many of his songs already on our list wedding playlist, and you can believe that we will party like never before. My favorite MJ song has to be "Off The Wall"....."So Tonight, gotta leave that nine to five upon the shelf. And just enjoy yourself"!! We plan to live each day, just as those lyrics describe. "Life Ain't so bad at all, if you live it off the wall"!!

Photo Credit: Ben Chrisman

Official Engagement Announcement

2009-06-22T20:22:00.000-07:00

Finally.....It Hit The Paper! This past Sunday, Father's Day, our official engagement announcement hit the paper. My mom always hits the town early on Sunday mornings to buy all of her goodies, and I was so excited when she walked in and handed me the Rome News Tribune. Anytime, I am home, I always look in the paper on Sunday mornings to read the engagement announcements and to see the brides who have just recently been married. Sunday was my turn!! It was even more exciting because my mom had chosen the picture and I hadn't seen it yet. As I opened the paper and saw "Wilson Williams Engagement" a huge smile came upon my face. I am preparing myself to marry the man of my dreams!! My fabulous fiance was still asleep, but I had to wake him up and share the Sunday morning paper with him! He said that he loved our announcement, but as soon as he woke up "for real", he asked to see it again!! LOL! So, it is official!! Let the festivities begin!! (Below is the actual announcement that hit the paper)

Photo Credit: Rome News Tribune

Mr. and Mrs. Tim Wilson of Rome announce the engagement of their daughter Takila Shamere Wilson to Christopher Anthony Williams, son of Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Williams of Darien. Miss Wilson is a 1998 graduate of Pepperell High School and a 2003 graduate of University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology. She is currently employed with Daiichi Sankyo as a pharmaceutical sales representative. The bride-elect is the sister of T.J. Wilson of Columbia, S.C., and Mia Wilson of Rome. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Milton Wilson Sr. and John S. Ransom, all of Rome and the late Emma Ransom.Williams is a 1998 graduate of McIntosh County Academy and a 2004 graduate of University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Science degree in entomology. He is employed with Orkin Commercial Services as a service manager. The groom-elect is the brother of Shawn Cox of Portland, Ore., and Charity Williams of Darien. He is the grandson of Maude Smith, Mattie Williams, the late Henry Smith and the late David Williams. The wedding ceremony is planned for Saturday, June 12, 2010, at The Biltmore Ballrooms in Atlanta. Invitations will be sent.

The Most Important Outfit of My Life

2009-06-18T20:52:00.000-07:00

It is getting closer and closer to the time that my dress will be making its arrival. Just a few more months, and the gorgeous beauty will be here. I am honored to wear a beauty designed by Reem Acra. Her gowns speak for themselves, and I can't wait to slip into my gown for the first time. I am in the process of finding the perfect pair of shoes to compliment my beauty down the aisle, and you can believe that they will be a special pair. The countdown is on to the most important day of my life, where I will wear the most important outfit of my life!!

Photo Credit: Amy Squire

Engagement Debut

2009-06-15T19:59:00.000-07:00

A special package arrived today at my mom's house, and it contained our photo and announcement that we will place in my hometown's newspaper. We are really so excited to "officially" announce our engagement and upcoming nuptials to everyone, well at least Rome, GA. I would have to say, however, that I was a little disappointed. I don't know if it is because I am from a small town or maybe they are just old fashioned, but our newspaper would not let us print a photo of us, as a couple. They only accepted photos of the bride!! ::( Regardless of that, we are really excited to print our announcement. We will also place an announcement in my fabulous fiance's hometown newspaper, and hopefully we will both make the paper!! Can't wait to share more. (P.S.- Thanks Mom for taking care of everything. You Rock! I love you very much!)

Photo Credit: Abigail Seymour

One Year To Go

2009-06-12T19:40:00.000-07:00

Today is it.....One Year to Go and we will be husband and wife. Next year on June 12, 2010, we will be saying our vows and committing ourselves to one another for the rest of our lives. God could not have chosen a more perfect man for me to share the rest of my life with, and I will be both honored and blessed to walk down the aisle and commit to my best friend. We cannot wait until next year, at this time, to share our love for one another, with our family and friends. It will really be the happiest day of our lives. So, to my fabulous fiance, I love you and I will meet you at the alter, exactly one year for now. I can't wait!!

Hot Black Number

2009-06-10T19:17:00.001-07:00

So, my mom and I had our morning talk, like we do every morning, and she finally agreed with an idea that I had months ago..........Black bridesmaids dresses. Yay! Success!! I love the idea of a black, sleek, elegant gown. While my bridesmaids would be gorgeous in any color, they are sure to dazzle in a hot black number. We have had one go at bridesmaids dresses and are currently preparing for several more outings. I can't wait. Tons of fun! Until we actually find the one, I have found some gorgeous black gowns, that really caught my eye and would be fantastic options!!

Photo Credit: Lazaro

Photo Credit: Alvina Valenta

Photo Credit: Bari Jay

Photo Credit: Jim Hjelm Occassions

Photo Credit: Alfred Angelo

Save The Date

2009-06-09T20:04:00.000-07:00

With the one year mark approaching us, I thought that I would share these adorable save the dates. I love this idea because it is something that you could keep forever! They are different, dainty, and down right charming. So, Save the Date, Takila & Christopher, June 12, 2010.

Photo Credit: 100 Layer Cake

Almost to the Mark

2009-06-08T19:45:00.000-07:00

This week is a special week. Friday will be exactly one year until our wedding day. June 12. We are so excited! We will be celebrating this year mark, and I will be sure to have cute pics to share. Next year at this time, this will be us, walking down the aisle as husband and wife. I know the posts have been short, but we are about to go into full wedding planning mode. There will be lots of appointments, decisions, and DIY projects. We are almost to the mark. As our cute nephew likes to say, ready, set..........GO!!

Photo Credit: Carl Zoch Photography

The Perfect Accessory

2009-06-05T20:04:00.000-07:00

I have searched and searched for a bouquet that I am in love with, and the one below is it!! This bouquet is absolutely gorgeous. The champagne and ivory flowers are perfect and will be a perfect compliment to the wedding dress that I will wear on the most important day of my life. There would be a few additional changes and personalization, but the look of this bouquet is exactly what I am going for. This bouquet is the perfect accessory for my wedding day!

Photo Credit: WeTV

M.I.A.

2009-06-04T20:14:00.000-07:00

Okay, okay, I know that I have been totally M.I.A. Yes, my fiance and I have been hiding out..........In Our New Home!! We finally found the home of our dreams and have been busy, busy, trying to settle in and make our new home, a home of our own!! We are, of course, still in the midst of wedding planning, but the new house is really taking up A LOT of our time. I will definitely be posting more things about our upcoming nuptials, really soon. For now, back to the fabulous new hideaway!

Photo Credit: WeTV

Another Perfect Match

2009-06-01T20:11:00.000-07:00

The one thing on our wedding day that is just as important as the wedding gown and the food is the.....groom's tuxedo. We have been playing around with a few different ideas for my soon to be husband's wedding day attire. I think that we both have the same idea, however, we just have to make that step to start trying on some tuxedos. Whatever my groom decides to wear, what matters to me most, is that he will make an appearance, waiting to become my husband, for the rest of his life!! So cheers to the bridal gown and tuxedo that in essence will become the perfect match.

All Things.....

2009-05-29T20:48:00.000-07:00

Okay, okay, I know this week was supposed to be "all things groom", however, for me, this week has been all things "basketball"!! For anyone who is or is not a basketball fan, I have to say that this year has been THE BEST year of NBA playoff basketball since the Jordan era. So, this week, I did take a mini break from all things wedding, and went all things "NBA basketball"! I guess that you could say, in a tiny way, that this is "all things groom"! Where there's a groom, there's basketball, and for my fabulous fiance, there's also, his soon to be bride!

Photo Credit: David Christensen Photography

The Groom's Boutonniere

2009-05-27T20:39:00.001-07:00

In honor of my fiances first trip on the road to wedding planning, I figured that we would dedicate this week to "all things groom"!! While my fabulous fiance has donned many boutonnieres in his many days as a groomsman, the boutonniere that he will wear on our wedding day, will be the most important one ever! We haven't decided on the exact boutonniere, but here are a few that caught my eye.

Photo Credit: The Knot

Our First Visit Together

2009-05-26T20:09:00.000-07:00

This weekend was an extremely busy weekend. However, any moment spent with my fabulous fiance and my family is so worth it. This was the first time that my fabulous fiance had visited the very site that we will exchange vows and become husband and wife. He has now officially become a part of the wedding planning committee!! :) It was just exciting to have him there, so that he could start to get a feel of our upcoming nuptials next year. I can't believe how time is just flying by, but every day that goes by is a day closer to becoming a wife to my fabulous fiance, and I can't wait!!

Chris & I at the Biltmore for the 1st time together
Little sister, Mom, & Myself (The girls)

Happy Memorial Day

2009-05-25T20:09:00.000-07:00

Formerly known as Decoration Day, today we celebrate and give thanks to those men and women who have served and given their lives for our country. There are so many traditions associated with Memorial Day, i.e. barbecues, picnics, retail shopping, and even the Indianapolis 500. But we all must remember the true celebration and the true observance of today.....all of the heroic and honorable men and women who have given their lives, serving for a better America. To them, I say, Thank You!!

Yum.....

2009-05-21T19:33:00.000-07:00

This weekend, we will be hitting the highways of 85, headed to Georgia, to do lots of wedding stuff. Tomorrow we will be going to taste food for our rehearsal dinner. We have lots of ideas, so we will be putting our palates to the test. I am sure that everything we taste will be remarkable. Can't wait to fill you in! Yum, Yum, Yum!

In the Spirit

2009-05-20T19:10:00.000-07:00

In the spirt of American Idol night, I thought that I would share this beautiful musical creation. What a fabulous delight! Enjoy the cake and enjoy the music!

Photo Credit: Ross Oscar Knight

Can Anyone Say..........CHOCOLATE

2009-05-19T19:54:00.000-07:00

There are millions of things that we can all agree to disagree on, however, one of those things would NOT be the love of..........CHOCOLATE!! Everyone holds a tiny place in their stomach and their soul for chocolate! We will be having lots of special treats at our wedding, but one of them will be a decadent chocolate surprise. One that will melt in your mouth and not in your hand. Ha ha! Not M&M's! But it will be a glorious chocolate delight, with each and every bite!

The Engagement Dress...Part 2

2009-05-15T19:48:00.000-07:00

Okay, okay, what would a week be without another look at that "engagement dress"!! Here is another bride in Oscar's masterpiece. Each bride has her own vision, appeal, and look, but wears the gown beautifully! From the hair, to the veil, and the soft makeup, each bride creates her dream day in her dream gown.

Photo Credit: Edyta Szyszlo Photography

A Magical Fairytale

2009-05-14T20:10:00.000-07:00

Every weekend in Atlanta, the Biltmore hosts amazing weddings. I love to see the inspiration of brides and how they transform the beautiful space at the Biltmore, into their magical fairytale. The gorgeous smiles that grace the faces of each bride, excites me even more for our special day to come. I can't wait to create a magical fairytale of my own at the exquisite Biltmore.

Photo Credit: Christine Gallagher Photography

Sleeping Beauty.....Sleeping Bride

2009-05-13T20:22:00.000-07:00

Today has been just an exhausting day! I am just getting home from work (at 11pm) and I have attempted to make too many wedding related decisions in one day. I have been deciding on details of the room flip, lighting, draping, reception and rehearsal food.....and the list goes on. So, this sleeping bride is in overload mode. I will be sure to fill you in on some of the details and decisions that I made today, after a few hours of beauty sleep. At least I can be the sleeping bride now and not closer to the actual wedding day. I am sure there are brides all over the world that represent the bride in the photo. That bride would be me today!!

The Spirit of Ecstasy

2009-05-12T19:15:00.000-07:00

As I drive up to the Biltmore, to marry the man of my dreams, I will be led by the spirit of ecstasy. The spirit is the mascot on the Rolls Royce. There is no other car that I could dream of riding to my ceremony in, than a Vintage Rolls Royce. The representation of the spirit is everything that I will be feeling and resembling on my wedding day. The Spirit of Ecstasy is in the form of a woman leaning forwards with her arms outstretched behind and above her. Billowing cloth runs from her arms to her back, resembling wings. On June 12, 2010, I will be the woman with her arms outstretched, ready to greet her groom, with her veil running through her arms, grasping onto the once in a lifetime feeling, of marrying her partner for life.

A Bride's Best Friends

2009-05-11T19:40:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Mother's Day, and what a blessing it was to be with my mother and have both my younger brother and little sister home to celebrate. The two ladies in the photo below are the two most important women in my life. The gorgeous woman in the middle is my mother and the beautiful lady on the other side of her is my baby sister, AKA, my maid of honor. I had planned on writing about my mom and Mother's Day weekend, and today I was even more inspired. Today I met three of the most phenomenal ladies, ever!! These three ladies reminded me of the relationship between myself, my mom, and my little sister. The ladies that I met were a mom and her two lovely daughters, who completely blew me away. The love, care, and respect that the three of them had for one another, truly, warmed my heart. Throughout life, there is nothing like having a mother as your best friend! For me, there is nothing like having my mother as a best friend. We go throughout our day, going to work, wedding planning, making deadlines, and quite frankly, being caught up in our own worlds. Today, my eyes were opened wide, to the many spectacular souls that surround us everyday. I saw in those lovely ladies, me and my family, many years ago....I was around the age of 16 when I first fell in love and wondered, in so many ways, what the future would hold. I was just beginning to discover myself and discover what love really was. Today, I am all grown up, and I have found the love of my life, who at 16, I didn't even know his name. I looked at this mother and her two daughters today, knowing that true love does exist and it can either be standing next to you on a daily basis or it is out there,waiting to be found......nameless, precious, priceless, and one of a kind.

Myself, Mother, & Sister

Floral Centerpieces

2009-05-07T20:26:00.001-07:00

One of the things that I have yet to really wrap my head around are the centerpieces for the wedding. There are so many things that I like about various centerpieces, and that makes it a tough decision. I am very particular about flowers. I feel like you need just the right amount of flowers for your wedding. I am not a big fan of "overdoing" the flowers. I will be setting up a few appointments to look at florals in the next month or so, and I hope someone gets my vision. Til then, these are some of the centerpieces that have caught my eye. They are all beautiful, elegant, and romantic, and that is the look that I am going for.

Photo Credit: Hidden Garden Flowers

The Engagement Dress

2009-05-06T19:51:00.000-07:00

When I first became engaged, there was one dress, in particular, that caught my eye. "THE" Oscar de la Renta dress. There was just something about this dress that I just absolutely loved. Every magazine I opened, every wedding site I went to.....there was the dress. While I never actually tried on the dress, due to the fact that I would have had to fly across country, I still think that it is a beautiful gown. While I have found my gorgeous wedding dress, that I am in love with, it is exciting to see that someone else, had that same excitement as I did upon seeing this dress. This dress to me is called "The Engagement Dress" because it was the first dress that I saw that made me know and feel like I was going to be a bride. And the dress that I will be wearing as a bride, is truthfully breathtaking and magical!! I can't wait!

Photo Credit: Jay Lawrence Goldman Photography

Draping.....Just Beautiful

2009-05-05T18:16:00.000-07:00

So the topic of conversation today, amongst my mother and I, was.....Draping!! Draping is so beautiful, rather it be the ceiling, the walls, or just a beautiful entry way. Our venue is so beautiful, I am not sure if any draping would be needed. However, when you see these beautiful photos, it really makes you second guess yourself. Draping is so whimsical and magical to me. It really creates a feeling that you want to get lost in. Our entry way to the ceremony and reception will both include draping, however, we have yet to make a decision for the cocktail hour and actual reception. So, as with a lot of things lately, stayed tuned. One more decision to be made. Regardless, you can really never go wrong with beautiful draping, and these photos prove that.

Photo Credit: Jason Angelini Photography

Photo Credit: Isn't She Lovely

Photo credit: Project Wedding

Tahiti

2009-05-04T19:25:00.001-07:00

So, I thought that it was time to introduce you to another fantastic option for our honeymoon.
There are so many magical places around the world, and we really want to be able to celebrate our honeymoon in one of those places. Just viewing some of these photos, makes you want to skip the wedding and head straight to the honeymoon!! That is what Tahiti will do for you. Enjoy and feel the magic!

Colors, Colors, Colors

2009-05-01T19:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday! Okay, one of the things that happens when you give yourself so much time to plan your wedding is that you......change your mind!! You begin to rethink colors, styles, guest count, everything!! So, today it is the wedding colors. We are still sticking with champagne and ivory, however, pink and black are starting to slowly creep into the wedding plans. I love the color inspiration of these colors. I will be sure to keep you posted once we make a final decision!

Photo Credit: Martha Stewart Weddings

Beautiful Inspiration

2009-04-30T19:49:00.000-07:00

It was almost two years ago that this most unbelievable proposal took place. It was the proposal heard and seen around the world. The first time I viewed this proposal, tears streamed from my eyes, and it just reassured me of the love that God blesses us with each day. If you haven't viewed this proposal before, then you are truly in for a treat. Find a quiet moment in your day, and view the love that is shared between this couple, their family, and their friends. If you have seen the proposal, it is always a great one to go back to, just to celebrate life and love. I am completely inspired and humbled by the love that is expressed!!

View proposal here

Photo Credit: Ross Oscar Knight

Obama: First 100 Days

2009-04-29T18:57:00.000-07:00

Today I wanted to take a moment and recognize the fact that it is President Obama's 100th day in office. How time flies! It seems like we were all wrapped up in the world wind of the amazing campaign just yesterday. I think today also gives us a time to reflect on our own lives....where we were 100 days ago in our day to day lives, where we were in the wedding planning process, and what we've contributed to make our lives and the lives of our neighbors better!! Planning a wedding can be so overwhelming and stressful, but it is so important to take one day at a time, and enjoy every single moment. Just as President Obama will only have the moment of his first 100 days, just this once, we as brides, only have the moments of being engaged and being a bride, for this moment. So....Enjoy it! Congrats to President Obama and his first 100 days!!

Our Moment In The Sunshine

2009-04-28T19:42:00.000-07:00

We were hoping to have beautiful photos like this one taken this weekend in Destin, however, sadly enough, that is not going to happen. After all of the planning and anticipation, we are having to postpone our engagement photos in Destin this weekend. Welcome to the world of wedding planning!! Due to conflicts, we had to postpone things. Luckily, we have over a year to have our photos taken. I will keep you posted as to when we will reschedule our photographs. Although we are a bit disappointed, there are just some things that you cannot control. We still have our wonderful photographer, and we will have our moment in the sunshine!!

Photo Credit: Lin & Jirsa

Capture The Moment

2009-04-27T20:06:00.000-07:00

I first have to start off by saying that I hope everyone had a fantastic weekend. It was so gorgeous this past weekend in NC. You could not have dreamed of a more beautiful day!. This week is all about engagement photos. As you know, the fabulous fiance and I are planning to head to Destin, FL this weekend for our engagement photos. We would be squared away if we could only figure out what we are going to wear for these photos. We scoured every store in Charlotte this weekend, looking for a few engagement photo looks, however, we came up empty. So..........the hunt is on, and we only have a couple of days to find those perfect looks. Any ideas or sites that anyone would like to suggest, would be greatly appreciated. There are so many looks for the beach, so we are trying to find what represents us!!! The important thing, however, is that we capture the love that we have for one another. So, to my fabulous fiance, I love you honey,and I can't wait to capture every moment with you! Muah!

Photo credit: Nicole Caldwell

Destin.....Here We Come

2009-04-24T19:54:00.000-07:00

Next week, at this time, my fabulous fiance and I will be in Destin, FL to have our engagement photos shot. We are so excited to just get away and have our engagement photos captured in such a beautiful place. These pictures represent the beginning of our journey, as we go from an engaged couple to becoming husband and wife. There are no words that can express how excited I am to be on this journey with my fabulous fiance. This is just the beginning, and we plan on enjoying every single moment of every single day. So watch out Destin, FL, here we come!!

Photo Credit: Jaxon Photography

Is It Friday Yet?

2009-04-23T20:09:00.000-07:00

Okay, let's be honest.....we all have those weeks! You know, the week where you have a million and one things going on. And the week where you call wedding vendors and people don't return your phone calls or e-mails. The week where you pray for there to be 48 hours in a day. And the week where you have said a million and one times................Is It Friday Yet???

Happy Earth Day

2009-04-22T20:08:00.000-07:00

April 22 is all about Earth Day! So..........Happy Earth Day!! There are so many things that we as people and as brides can do to inspire the modern environmental movement. Look around you, take in the beauty around you and find your inspiration to make our Earth a better place. What is the one thing that you do in your day to day life or just in planning your wedding that is Earth friendly? One act of environmental friendliness goes a long way. My fabulous fiance and I, as you know, will be having both our ceremony and reception in the same location. This way, we will decrease every one's carbon footprint. Planning a wedding is tons of fun and it can also be environmentally savvy. We are making a commitment to try and be a part of this movement. We all should! So, again, Happy Earth Day. Inspiration is all around you!

Candy Land

2009-04-21T20:09:00.001-07:00

One of the popular things at weddings, as I'm sure you know, are CANDY BARS!! And guess what.....we have to have one. It just makes you feel like a kid again. I love the idea of of our guests being able to go and pick from some of our favorite treats. We are planning on adding a few of our own twists to the candy bar, but you can be sure that it will be like being in candy land!!

What is it About You?

2009-04-20T20:17:00.000-07:00

I am always looking for fun things for my fabulous fiance and I to do. So, I wanted to share this really fun website. Check it out to see all of the interesting things about you and your soulmate and what it is about the two of you that brought you to one another. Have fun!

http://www.paulsadowski.com/Numbers.asp

http://www.paulsadowski.com/birthday.asp

The Dogwood Tree

2009-04-17T19:38:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like driving down an old country road, in the middle of spring, and seeing the dogwood trees swaying in the wind. The beauty that is captured in the dogwood offers both insight and inspiration to everyday living. The appearance of the dogwood represents the beginning of spring, a fresh start, a renewal, a rebirth. And isn't that what your wedding day is all about.......the beginning of two lives joining as one to begin their fresh start. So I hope that on our wedding day, we will be so blessed to see, swaying in the wind, the beauty and symbolism of our fresh start as husband and wife.....The Dogwood Tree!

Photo Credit: Hudson Valley Painter

Photo Credit: Faulkner's Dogwood

Photo Credit: Fine Art America

Photo Credit: Rose Thistle Artwork

Mother of the Bride

2009-04-16T18:30:00.000-07:00

I know that this blog is all about weddings, but what other person could be as important to this wedding than the mother of the bride. My mother! I first want to wish her a Happy Birthday!! I too hope, as she did me, that all of her dreams come true!! Words cannot begin to express just what my mother means to me! EVERYTHING!! The relationship that she and I have is priceless, and I hold on to it with everything that I have. My mother has been so amazing throughout this wedding planning process. She has been there every step of the way. Anything that I have had to do for this wedding, big or small, she has been involved, and has been the biggest help. She has spent countless hours, taking my phone calls about a wedding idea, flipping through wedding magazines, and watching every bridal show known to man, just to be there for me and my special day. (And did I mention, that my wedding isn't until June 2010!!) I just wanted to put into writing, for the entire world to see, that I appreciate my mother and everything that she has done for me and everything that she continues to do. She is a phenomenal woman, mother, and friend, and I am so blessed to have her in my life. Many soon to be brides, ask me my opinion about the wedding planning process, and I always offer up the same piece of advice.............Enjoy EVERY SINGLE MOMENT WITH YOUR MOTHER!! Many people get caught up in the things that don't really matter, but the time that is spent with your mother, planning your wedding, is time that you will cherish for the rest of your life. Thanks mom for everything! Happy Happy Birthday!! You deserve the world! Love you!!

My Mom and I (Isn't She Lovely)

Spring 2010 Bridal

2009-04-15T18:53:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it? The Spring 2010 Bridal Collections are already here! Rather you have found your dress or you are still out there searching for the perfect bridal gown, check out some of these gorgeous gowns from some of the top designers. There are so many beautiful gowns that hit the runway, and the designers did not disappoint!! Happy Spring Bridal 2010!!

Reem Acra

Monique Lhuillier

Carolina Herrera

Oscar de la Renta

Badgley Mischka

The Color of Dreams

2009-04-14T18:19:00.000-07:00

Today I was so blessed to celebrate my 29th birthday. There were so many things that were special about today. My mother text me at 12:00 am, on the dot, wishing me a happy birthday and saying "May all of your Dreams come True"!! And I have to say........all of my dreams did come true, and they continue to come true everyday!! I am engaged to the most fascinating man around. It is such a wonderful feeling to know that you are about to spend the rest of your life with someone who totally gets you and you totally get them. Each day, my fabulous fiance puts a smile on my face. I have an amazing family and wonderful friends, who truly care for me!! What more could a girl ask for? Well since you asked, it didn't hurt that my fabulous fiance got me a little something in one of those special blue boxes with the white ribbon! He is the best man ever!! I really had no expectations of any gifts for my birthday. With the wedding planning and trying to build our lives together, that truly is enough for me! However, my fabulous fiance always goes that extra mile to make me feel special and bring that element of surprise to my face. Our love, my family and friends, and the life that we are building together are the colors of my dreams. And sharing everyday with the people that I love is the best birthday present ever. So, to all who frequently read this blog, I hope that on your special day, all of your dreams come true and you find the colors of your dreams!!

Circle of Love

2009-04-13T18:18:00.000-07:00

This weekend my fabulous fiance and I went furniture shopping. One of the things that we were trying to decide on was rather to get a rectangle or round dining room table. Oddly enough, it got me thinking about our wedding. It is so important to us that all of our friends and family feel like they are apart of our special day. So, we are really hoping to create an atmosphere that reflects that. Although our venue typically has the dance floor area at the front of the room, we will be opting to have the dance floor in the center of the room, to create a circle of love. Now, as far as the dining room table, we have yet to purchase one, but I will be sure to keep you posted. Just know that any day to day task, can lead to fantastic, meaningful ideas for your wedding day.

Photo Credit: Cliff Mautner

Happy Easter

2009-04-10T20:07:00.000-07:00

With Easter being this Sunday and thousands of weddings taking place, I thought it would be great to look at some Easter inspired wedding ideas. Easter is a time to celebrate life, love, birth ,and rebirth, and what a great time of the year to have a wedding. With spring colors, bright sunshine, and delicate flowers, what a gorgeous occasion an Easter themed wedding is sure to be.

The Little Wedding

2009-04-09T20:31:00.000-07:00

I am originally from a small, charming town called Rome, GA. Every year, there are lots of special events that take place around town. However, there is one special event that takes place at Berry College, that is truly unforgettable. That event is the Berry College Annual Kindergarten Wedding. This is one of the most sweet and loving things you will ever see. To see these children learning about being friends and loving one another, simply warms my soul. The kids vow to each other to be friends forever, and isn't that what we all are shooting for. We, as adults, join hands in marriage because we have found the person that we want to spend the rest of our lives with, our best friend forever. There are so many lessons that we can learn from children and the care and innocence, that you see on these children's faces, is priceless. Congrats to these children, who have chosen to commit to one another by becoming friends for life!

Photo Credit: 6 of Four

Carolina Blue

2009-04-08T19:14:00.000-07:00

In the spirit of the 2009 NCAA Men's Basketball Champions, the North Carolina Tarheels, I thought that I would join in the celebration with a Tarheel inspired wedding. Although I will always be a true Georgia girl, I have to admit that Carolina has a piece of my heart. Congrats to the Tarheels!

Photo Credit: Kellie Kano Photography

Blush Pink

2009-04-07T18:43:00.000-07:00

I have mentioned a few times that we will be adding an accent color to our wedding, along with our champagne and ivory color palette. We are down to two choices for an accent color,and I thought that I would introduce you to one of them. One thing about choosing a color is that there are so many different shades and variations (as you will see below), and you want the color to be just right! There are details from each of these inspiration boards, that I hope to incorporate into our wedding. Our first choice for an accent color is: Blush Pink!

Photo Credit: Style Me Pretty

The Road to The Wedding

2009-04-06T20:12:00.000-07:00

Although our wedding is not until next June, we are way ahead of the ballgame. We really wanted to be able to plan our wedding and enjoy the planning, enjoy each other, and not become stressed out during the planning process. Talking to various vendors, they are extremely surprised about the amount of things that we have already done. I will tell you about her more, but my mother has been the best planning pal, you can have. She has been there, every single step of the way, and she has really made this planning process a blast. You guys are going to love her!! Anyway.......... While I definitely plan on sharing the details of the planning process, let me give you a scope of where we already are in the planning process.

We first: Set the Date, June 12, 2010

Selected our venue for the Ceremony and Reception: The Biltmore Ballrooms

Selected our wedding colors: Champagne and Ivory (We will have an accent color, however, that has not been decided on 100%, but I will share once we make the final decision. We are down to two colors.)

Selected our DJ: It was really important for us to have someone that was familiar with the space and understands the set up and sound quality of the rooms. And most importantly, someone who is going to give us the party that we want.

Selected our Photographer, Videographer, and Cake Baker (who makes the most amazing cakes!! They were so good!! We secretly wanted to ask for a piece to go, but we didn't! LOL)

Selected a hotel for our out of town guests.

Selected our Day of Coordinator and Caterer: We just have to finalize the menu!! Have so much more to add about the caterer! Amazing!!

And last but surely not least.......................... I HAVE PURCHASED MY WEDDING DRESS!!!! I am so in love with it!

So, as you can see, we are well on the road to the wedding. I can't wait to get there and marry the man of my dreams. Stay tuned for many more updates and inspirations about our Southern Wedding.

Photo Credit: Visionari Blog

The Blackwell Wedding..........

2009-04-03T13:18:00.000-07:00

Harold and Alenda were married this past Saturday, March 28, 2009, in Athens, GA. Their ceremony was originally supposed to take place on North Campus at the University of Georgia. However, due to the rain, the ceremony was moved inside, and what a beautiful wedding it was. The entire day was full of love, happiness, and togetherness. What a joyous day! I am delighted to share more photos from their beautiful wedding day! Congrats again, to Mr. & Mrs. Blackwell.

The adorable ring bearer!

Here comes the bride!

You may now kiss the bride. Yes!

The first time presented as Mr. & Mrs. Blackwell

How handsome is my "soon to be husband"

Me & the beautiful bride

My fabulous fiance & his line brothers

My fabulous fiance & I

The bride & groom doing the "stanky leg" :)

All of the frat brothers dancing with the bride

"Prophecy" Christopher, Harold, Frank & Kareem

Asian Fusion

2009-04-02T18:43:00.000-07:00

My very favorite color is red! So, when I saw these photos, I had to share them. This is a beautiful expression of Asian Fusion. The richness of the colors and the traditional elements throughout this wedding add to the ethnic flare. The elements from this wedding were truly unique and beautiful!

Photo Credit: Nisie's Enchanted Florist

Champagne & Ivory

2009-04-01T19:38:00.000-07:00

Our color scheme for our wedding will be champagne and ivory. We are currently working on an accent color, however, I haven't made a decision yet, as to what it will be. Please stay tuned! One of the hottest trends for wedding gowns, for both 2009 and 2010, is the two-toned wedding gown. So, in keeping with the color scheme of our wedding, I thought we'd take a peek at some of the hottest two-toned wedding gowns of the season.

Something Blue

2009-03-31T19:10:00.000-07:00

I am probably one of a billion brides, who loves Tiffany's! On any occasion, getting that blue box with the white ribbon, is always a celebration. So, when I saw these pictures, I just couldn't resist sharing them. While Tiffany Blue is not a part of my color scheme for my wedding, it will make an appearance somewhere during our wedding weekend.

Photo Credit: Wedding Obsession

Congrats to Mr. & Mrs. Blackwell

2009-03-30T18:53:00.000-07:00

As you all know, my fabulous fiance and I hit the road to Athens, GA this weekend for the wedding of two of are dearest friends. The weekend was just great. It was fantastic to be around old friends and celebrate the love that was shared between two people, who were truly meant for one another. I would like to introduce you all to the new Mr. & Mrs. Blackwell!! CONGRATS!! We love you guys so much, and wish you much love and happiness forever and always!! Athens, GA will always be remembered as the place where we all found friendship and everlasting love!! Cheers to the bride and groom!

Mr. & Mrs. Blackwell, March 28, 2009

More pictures to follow..........

Give It Up For the Groom

2009-03-27T10:24:00.000-07:00

The groom's cake has always been known as a southern tradition, and this southern gal and guy will definitely partake in this tradition. The groom's cake is a great way to express the personality and interest of the groom. So, to give you an idea of who my fabulous fiance really is, I have posted some very unique groom's cakes. GA is always on my mind, so you can guess which cake is my favorite. You can be assured, however, that one of these cake ideas, will make an appearance at our wedding, along with a few personal touches!!

Photo Credit: Chef Abby

Photo Credit: CMNY Cakes

Photo Credit: Diamond Vues

Photo Credit: Cakes by Graham

Photo Credit: Carty Cakes

Love, Honor, Cherish

2009-03-26T20:32:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how, in any setting, a bride's inner and outer beauty can be captured. This photo evokes so much emotion in you, and makes you want to be a bride each and everyday! Looking at the image, you really capture, in your heart, the essence of what it means to be a bride.....loving, honoring, and cherishing your husband and the life that you will build together, for the rest of your lives!

Photo Credit: Poser Image

The Time of Your Life

2009-03-25T19:34:00.000-07:00

I think one thing every bride says about her wedding is that she wants it to be F-U-N!!! Your wedding is the happiest day of your life and you want to have a blast, along with your family and friends. Today was one of those days when thinking about all things "life", I thought to myself, how I want my wedding to be the best time of my life. I thought about how great it would be to just be at a fun celebration of life and love. In thinking about my wedding day, the lyrics to "The Time of My Life" by Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes popped into my head! The lyrics reminded me that everyday with the one whom you love should be the time of your life!

I've had the time of my life

No I never felt this way before

Yes I swear it's the truth

And I owe it all to you

'Cause I've had the time of my life

And I've searched through every open door

'Til I found the truth

And I owe it all to you

Photo Credit: Labor of Love

Rain, Rain, Go Away

2009-03-24T12:52:00.000-07:00

So, my mom called last night and had a bit of information for our Athens, GA weekend, that we are so excited about. Her warning was: Rain expected on Friday and thunderstorms on Saturday. Oh no! So, I am asking all of you out there to pray the rain away for our friends that will be getting married this weekend. They have planned a beautiful ceremony on the University of Georgia campus, and we want there to be nothing but gorgeous Georgia sunshine. So if you would, for the bride and groom.....Rain, rain go away. Come again another day. They have their vows they need to say. Come again some other day!

A Trip Down Memory Lane

2009-03-23T18:23:00.000-07:00

This weekend, my fabulous fiance and I will hit the highways of 85 and head back to Athens, GA. As mentioned before, we met in college at The University of Georgia, and this is the first time that we have been back to visit together since we left in 2004. Talking about it today, literally brought tears to my eyes. The thought of going back to the place where we first met, the place where we found each other and fell in love, brings about emotions in me, that I cannot even begin to express. If anyone could guess, we are going back to Athens for what else......a wedding!! And along with the wedding festivities of the weekend, we plan on visiting some of our special places at the University and in Athens. The University brought about a lot of firsts for us, and this weekend we will embark on Athens, GA as an engaged couple, for the first time. This weekend will be the first time that I introduce Athens, GA and The University of Georgia, to who else but, my fabulous fiance!!!

photo credit: Natalie Moser

Spring...A time of growth and renewal

2009-03-20T19:25:00.000-07:00

Today, March 20, 2009 is the first official day of spring this year! I am so excited. Goodbye winter, hello spring! Spring is defined as the season of the year, occurring between winter and summer, during which the weather becomes warmer and plants revive.....all things revive. We can only hope that with the first day of spring comes fantastic weather and gorgeous flowers for all of the brides to be! With spring and great weather, comes beautiful bouquets! Thanks Spring!

Photo Credit: Ross Oscar Knight

Photo Credit: Polka Dot Bride

Til Death Do Us Part

2009-03-19T15:45:00.000-07:00

Today I picked up my engagement ring for the second time!! It is one thing to be without your bling the first time, but two is just unimaginable. And also, annoying, if I may add, because everyone assumes that the engagement is over! I can't even remember the number of times, over the past two weeks, that I have said "The ring is being sized"!! I was so proud to walk out of the store today with my ring and know that we would never have to part again. The first thing I did was......called my fabulous fiance! Of course! Picking up my ring took me back to the day that he asked me to be his wife, with so much love and pride. From that moment, I knew, with no doubt in my heart, that he and I would be together til death do us part!!

Photo Credit: Cameron Ingalls

I've Got Sunshine

2009-03-18T18:00:00.000-07:00

Finally, after about 5 days of rain.......I've Got Sunshine!! The gorgeous day that we had here in North Carolina today, made me think of inspirations for a yellow wedding!! Regardless of the day that you are having, yellow just makes you smile! Yesterday, we went green, and today, it's all about the "sunshine" brides!

SD Wedding Insider

Stylish Events

Style me Pretty

Let's Go Green

2009-03-17T18:05:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!! In the spirit of today, I figured that it would be a great day to go green! Going green and having an eco-friendly wedding, is all about using "mindful indulgence" in choosing items for your wedding. There is always a place in every wedding to go green, rather it's those infamous DIY projects, using recycled paper for invitations and menu cards, or donating to your favorite charity as your wedding favor. So, with the Irish, let's celebrate, together, going green!

A Green Wedding: Celebrating Being Eco-Friendly

Bridesmaids bouquets in Bloomboxes
A Blumebox is a flower container made from recycled paper

Gorgeous Seated Dinner

Seated Dinners allow brides to use less plates & utensils. And less food is usually prepared. For the weddings that have extra food, it is always a great idea to donate your food to a shelter.

Veriflora-certified Vendela roses

Guaranteed that they have not been dunked in chemicals or grown under abusive working conditions.

Photos courtesy of Inside Weddings

Cocktail Please

2009-03-16T16:25:00.000-07:00

Today is one of those days where I just need a great cocktail!! I think the cocktail hour is one of those moments during the day when everyone is thinking.....I just can't wait to get there!! There's nothing like having a great fruitini or mojito!!! Here are a few yummy concoctions for that special signature cocktail on your wedding day!!

Tequila Sunrise

Tangerini

Margarita

Godiva Chocolate Martini

Pink Grapefruit Mojito

Your Something Blue

Symbol of Eternity

2009-03-13T19:40:00.000-07:00

The wedding ring is the most recognizable and famous symbol, representing the joining of man and woman as husband and wife. The oldest recorded exchange of wedding rings comes from ancient Egypt, about 4800 years ago. The full circle of a wedding ring, symbolizes the eternal love and completeness that a husband and wife share. Nothing is sweeter than seeing a couple's wedding rings in a beautiful photo, representing, today, tomorrow, and forever.......... a symbol of eternity!!

photo credit: Victor C Sizemore

A Girl & Her Shoes

2009-03-12T19:29:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like seeing a bride and her fancy shoes on her wedding day. The dress is the main entree, but the shoes, for me, are the dessert. I love to see brides in their fancy, classy, and gorgeous gowns. But I love the shock value when a bride flashes a peep of her shoes, and catches all of her guests off guard!!

photo credit: Natalie Moser

photo credit: Jennifer Skog

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