A few words to end the Year!

Amongst my friends, i'm not known to have just a few words to say... i'm more of a constant yapper...at times! But i'll try to keep this short and sweet.

2008 has been an amazing year. Not just with the engagement (which was icing on the cake)... but with life in general. I think i've made great strides and personal improvements which were a long time coming. I've tried to be more aware of my actions ... and even if i've been unsuccessful at controlling my reactions, I'm at least aware.

2008...and 2009!!!

Things that happened this year:

1. Refinanced to purchase a parking space (yes, a parking space required a refinance on my condo)
2. Managed to survive in a 750 Sq ft Condo with FH, Juneau & Kota (at one point having my lovely mom and aunt come and visit)
3. Proposed to (04/04)
4. Said yes to proposal (04/04)
5. Survived first months of engagement (04/04-Present)
6. Had first engagement party (8/2
7. Managed to survive a whirlwind tour of 6 weddings this year (invited to 8, could only attend 6) - 4 in CA, 2 in NJ (Click to see some weddings)
8. Went to first "wedding" related launch Party for Weddzilla
9. Started and maintained a blog
10. Won my first door prize, then online contest prize
11. Learned to be honest with my father (haven't blogged about it, but i will when i'm ready)
12. Made some awesome friends in the blog-o-sphere
13. Learned the proper way to "diet" and still perfecting that skill (i.e., what goes in vs. what goes out)
14. More aware of my moods and behavior (still a work in progress)
15. Cleaned out my social closet a bit...ended a couple friendships that were not good for me
16. Really perfected the skill of "everything will work itself out" regarding my job and not stressing over money ... still need reminders but overall have been very good about it
17. Hired a wedding coordinator, Paola.
18. Hired a photographer, Jordana @Hazelnut Photography
19. Tried to be more appreciative and considerate!
20. Wonderful visits from family and friends :)

Things I'd like to focus on for 2009

1. Be healthier... all around, not just weight-wise. Focus on healthy foods, organic and clean. and Exercise and being Active!
2. Be Honest... try to continue to be honest with those i love, even if its not what they want to hear. No more secrets
3. Live More... try to work at being less controlled by work/money/finances and live a little.
4. Take more vacations. Make more time for family and friends. Be a better friend!
5. Laugh more... find humor in even the most aggravating frustrations
6. Stay Angry Less! Really learn to identify my anger, let it go... and move on.
7. Smile... just to smile b/c life truly is amazing. Amidst the war, the poverty, the hatred, the business... i have a wonderful FH who loves me, Family who supports me, Friends who are loyal, a job that pays the bills and two wonderful puppies! I really do have it all...even if i don't have it "all"
8. Show Gratitude
9. Cook and Bake more :)
10. Live. Love. Laugh

What are your highlights of 2008?? What are your goals for 2009??

UPDATE: Just realized that my 2009 goals are not wedding centered! I'm surprised... i'm sure this time next year, 2010 will be a different story... Do you have wedding related 2009 goals? What are they?

Digital Wedding Dress

I found something cool over at Bridechka's Blog... Build your own wedding dress!!!

I want to build my own dress

Check out Build Your Dream Wedding Dress



How cool is this!!!

Bride Wars!

I've just been informed that Bride Wars is live on Bluefly! The movie's not out until Jan 9th, but you can go there now to enter the Bride War Stories Contest - just submit your crazy mother-in-law, bad taffeta tales to win a $1000 shopping spree. While you're there, make sure you play around the Bridal Beatdown game where you upload your face to the body of either Liv (Kate Hudson) or Emma (Anne Hathaway) and duke it out against the other bridezilla.

Merry Christmas!

Ho ho hooo! I am dancing Santa Claus and I have a wish for you.

Watch my dancing Santa video card created just to wish you a happy holidays!

Merry Christmas Y'all!

Happy Holiday Giveaway!

I'm so very excited to announce The RelentlessBride's THIRD Giveaway this year! I think I'm just probably one of the luckiest bloggers out there b/c i get the opportunity to reward my readers for being so relentless for following my blog and reading my ramblings!

So without further Ado....

One of my awesome sponsors who i love to rave about is offering....

FREE 200 Save The Date's - ANY Style, ANY Design, Customized Just for YOU!
Free Shipping (Standard Ground) Nationwide
You can enter once a day, everyday, starting from today, December 24, 2008 until January 2, 2009

What you have to do:
1. Go to MagnetStreet Weddings
2. Pick a design you like
3. Come back here and comment as to which design you picked, whether you'd keep as designed, or how you would change the design, color, style, etc. to make it reflect your PERFECT STD for your wedding!

It's that EASY! So get on it... I know I could sure use free STD's for my wedding ... and make sure to enter daily to increase your chances of winning! Winner will be selected at Random.

$100 WPD's Giveaway Winner is...

29 is...
Congratulations Emily!!! Thank you for diligently posting practically daily and entering my contest! Let me know what you end up going with over at Wedding Paper Divas! :) Make sure to email me :)

For the rest of you, one more giveaway to go... starting on 12/24 (it's a great one too)! Make sure to enter daily, once a day like Emily did to increase your chances! :)

A word from my local sponsor...

MagnetStreet Weddings is celebrating the season with a Holiday Special.

From MagnetStreet Weddings & Truly Engaging… We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Here’s the scoop on the savings:

Holiday Savings

15% discount on ALL WEDDING PRODUCTS

Dec 24 through January 1, 2009

Save the Dates…Wedding Invitations… Reception Items…

Favor Cards, Magnets & personalized Notepads…

Thank You’s… Holiday Cards…Return Address Labels & Seals

To receive the savings off your online order, simply enter promotional code: WBCS15 at checkout. Offer is valid through January 1, 2009.

Be on the lookout for a GREAT giveaway starting on the 24th of December from our awesome Sponsor MagnetStreet Weddings! It'll knock your socks off what a great giveaway this is! So make sure to stop back soon :)

**Check out Heidzilla's Great Review of her own purchase there, and one from her friend Codi and Joe's Magnet STD as well!

Spanx Sale!

I love a good sale...and y'all know I love me some spanx
so check this out...

Free shipping on orders of $50 or more, plus 20% off your entire order through 1/6/2009

Last day to Enter $100 Giveaway...

for Wedding Paper Divas, So make sure to enter before Midnight EST Today! :)

NY Workshop Part 4-Last and Final

Our last and final part of the NY Workshop series from Bridechka... a big shout out to her for all her great notes and detailed experience... Make sure to check out her blog, it totally rocks!

Onto the Part 4, the Finale!

NY Wedding Workshop “How To Get the Most for Your Money” part 4 (the finale)

To close out the week of recapping the Wedding Workshop, I wanted to list some of the vendors that Lindsay Landman recommends as well as a few last money saving tips.

Clever Money Saving Alternatives
1. SugarFlowerShop.com
This tip blew my mind ... mostly because it involves cake. Wedding cakes nowadays can get super pricey, especially if you want fancy sugar flowers to decorate it BUT many venues offer a free wedding cake (and by free I mean included in your package price) but fairly few wedding venues have a titan of the pastry arts working for them. So here is the plan, take the cake that comes in your package and ask them to make it very simple (no embellishments), then go to www.sugarflowershop.com and order whichever flowers suit your fancy and just stick them right into that cake. End result = fabulousity.

2. Rightonthewalls.com
Love your monogram? Want to stick it everywhere? How bout your dance floor? Well those personalized dance floors can cost a pretty penny so to get the same effect on the cheap (well... cheaper) got rightonthewalls.com and get yourself one mama-jama of a giant sticker. The best part: stick on the dance floor before the party starts and at the end, they peel right off. No muss, no fuss.

3. AdornBrides.com
Got a yen for the blingy shiny things but a budget that only gets you one half an earring? Well then consider renting your jewelry! That way you can indulge in dripping diamonds without going into debt for the rest of your life. (Side-note: I am not really into jewelry unless it has some sort of meaning to me no matter how shiny it is but I have always been kind of a tomboy about that stuff and I think that if you are into the big and sparkly then this is definitely the way to go).

Some Lindsay Landman endorsed vendors:
CakesbyMona.com

CustomCookies.com

CheektoChic.com

Mjwcalligraphy.com

That is all for my report from the Wedding Workshop ... hope you all enjoyed it!
*******

PS. Check out one of my friends - Calligraphy by Kelly Ann. She's awesome, nationwide and reasonably priced :)

For my own inspiration

Just to remind myself down the road about what inspires me... per Atlanta Bride

via Wedsmack

See a couple More...

via Wedding Decorator

Via Snippet & Ink

all boards borrowed from Inspiration from a Black, White and Yellow Wedding

NY Workshop-Part 3

Many thanks to Bridechka for keeping us informed and learning a lot....

Now on to Part 3!!

NY Wedding Workshop “How To Get the Most for Your Money” part 3

The wedding advice continues from the Wedding Workshop this past weekend lead by wedding planner extraordinaire Lindsay Landman.

Today we learn: How NOT to Lose Money

1. Don't over commit to your vendors.
Got a guest list of 170 people? Well its very likely only about 150 of them will come, do not tell your caterer/reception site that you are having 180 guests thinking "Just in case!" Lindsay's wise words on this subject were "You can always add guests but never take away!" Once you commit to a certain number of guests, that is how much you will get charged for and even a few extra people adds up!

2. Don't over order.
(When she said this I thought to myself, "Oh no, she has radar senses for my compulsive over ordering fortified by years of mothers and grandmothers saying 'We aren't going to have enough for the guests! We should have gotten more!'") Lindsay's rule of thumb is that you should order 25 less favors/programs than you have guests. And don't worry you will still have one for your scrap book! Many people don't take the favors/programs home and often couples take on for the both of them. Why spend money on something that you don't have to?? Answer: don't!

3. Never get "drinks on consumption."
This though never even crossed my mind since I come from a family that takes vodka shots to celebrate any and every occasion... oh and also on days that end in "y" but I guess some others that are not trying to mollify a frenzy of alcoholics might consider this option. Lindsay's advice on this was steer clear! People are notoriously fickle with drinks at weddings. They order one, take a sip, put it down, order another, leave it on the table and it gets cleared, order another one, throw it on the floor and yell "opa!" ... then they order another one, pour it on that other guest who was mean to them in the bathroom... oh yeah and then they order another one.

4. Do not sign a contract for a hotel block that requires you to guarantee a percentage of rooms and nights.
It's self explanatory folks, your guests don't fill them and you get stuck with an expense you never expected to pay.

5. Don't book transportation for guests without having them confirm that they will use it.
Another one thats pretty clear - don't spend money on it if no one is going to use it.

6. Do not secure a service through a vendor who does not actually provide that service him/herself.
Lindsay's example, if your band does not have members who play strings but your only wish and desire is to have string play you into your ceremony then contract with a string musician independently do not ask your band if they can get you someone. Sure they will probably find someone and they probably even have great contacts but they will add on a hidden finder's fee for the small effort they exerted in placing the phone call. (PS: Another tip from Lindsay - if strings is the answer to your heart's true desires call the Juilliard school and they will set you up with some string musicians).

7. Do not have a bajillion hair and make-up trials.
Those things cost money! Once you find someone you like, go with it ... we have come back to wedding motto #2 again: don't make yourself nuts searching for the "best" when great is staring you in the face.

Tickled by Feather Love...

Completely and utterly tickled by Noa@Feather Love Weddings!

She's got a great winter special deal going on right now for Southern California! "BOOK BEFORE JANUARY 30th 2009, FOR ANY 2009 DATES I HAVE AVAILABLE AND RECEIVE 50% OFF OF “pumpkin’s” PRICE! (Some à la carte items available for the discount as well)."

See some pics and more detail!


I only posted a few pics, but check out Noa's Blog... her pictures are incredible and she seems like such a fun gal... And for you SoCal brides... who couldn't use a discount on their photography packages! Make sure to email her for more info!

*Also posted on 2 other awesome blogs: $10,000 Only and Broke Ass Bride

"If you liked it, then you shoulda put a ring on it"

So i totally love this song, and via my morning twitter ... and new twitter friend Bridalinquirer and all i can think is... if this chicka can learn the dance, I SO CAN TOO!!!...

All the single Ladies... All the single ladies!!!


In case the above video isn't working... click here
UPDATE: Side by side Beyonce vs. Arianna!!

NY Workshop Part 2

Thanks to Bridechka for allowing us to "borrow" her notes from the workshop... onto PART 2!!!

Negotiating Your Contract

more tips from Lindsay Landman.

Here are Lindsay's main tips for understanding your vendor contracts and negotiating to get a better price:

1. Read your contract carefully.
   Yeah ok, no brainer, right? But Lindsay made an interesting comment about this point. Don't get caught up in the legalese (I know the best part of this post is that I am a law student quoting this advice ... on a side note: soon to be former law student!!!). Almost all of the contracts give the vendor all of the legal protection and if you cancel they get everything you get zilch (if your really worried about it, look into insurance).
   But do carefully look over what products/services you are getting that are explicitly stated in the paper work. If they promise you something and you don't see it in there, go ahead and write it in in pen (advice from a law student who is not a practicing attorney but did get a good grade in her first year contracts class: draw their attention to the fact that you have made this addition before they sign... trust).
   
2. Ask questions!
   A good one that Lindsay suggested is: "What is going to cost extra that is not included in here?" I think this is a great question. Often there are hidden fees and/or taxes that may be hard to find all of the jargon in the contract. Specifically ask about set-up fees, delivery fees, and gratuities. You read that right, ASK about gratuities. That way you don get hit with the "Well it is customary to give X% tip to joe, jack, and jim...." at the end of the night when your happy and tipsy and not in any mood to discuss.
3. Some things are not negotiable.
   If you are getting married at a hotel they sometimes employ union staff and unions often have set fees for certain services (coat check, cake cutting, etc...). Union fees are not negotiable. Don't bother arguing them, its not worth the stress.
4. Ask: "Where can you be flexible?"
   That question is a great way to start the conversation. Let them know that you really would like to use their product/service but that you want to know where they can be flexible in terms of their rates and/or what they can give you for those rates.
   Sometimes it is easier for vendors to throw in perks rather than lower the price, but that still means that your getting the most bang for your buck. For example a photographer is more likely to give you some extra time or a caterer can throw in more food (an extra appetizer for example) rather than lower their price. ASK. Always ask.
5. Ask: if you can pay the entire cost up-front for a discount. OR Ask if you can pay in cash for a discount.
   BUT remember ALWAYS get a receipt of your purchases. Many vendors will give a discount for cash because when they accept credit cards they are charged a fee. Some vendors will offer a discount for paying upfront (especially during wedding light months like during the winter and especially if they are a small business) in order to raise capital right away rather than wait for it.
6. Remember to ask your caterer if you can negotiate the price of your vendor meals.
   Another tip in this category was that if you have a huge band, ask your band if they are willing to do a "meal buyout" (where you give them cash to either run out or get delivery and eat before they need to be on).
7. Most importantly, be ready to walk away.
   Not as a bargaining technique but because sometimes things just don't work out. Be realistic! If the price is not for you and they can't or won't work with you on it, then it might be time to move on.

Remember Wedding Motto #2: Best is the enemy of good! Maybe you will find something even better that won't break the bank.

NY workshop - i missed, but didn't miss out...

Via Bridechka and the Wedding (another winner from the Unbride contest) who was actually able to attend... a summary of the workshop we missed, but we don't have to miss out on! Here is part one...

Part one tips!!

{All from Bridechka's blog}

So because of my good luck I got to go to the NY Wedding Workshop “How To Get the Most for Your Money” this past weekend and it was really helpful. It was not at all like those huge wedding trade shows where everyone shoves flyers and postcards in your face, this was an interesting and insightful presentation lead by expert wedding planner Lindsay Landman.

I am going to be highlighting some of her advice this week (along with my interpretations of said advice). Some of the comments are common knowledge in the wedding universe but I am thinking there are probably some other clueless (or at least semi-clueless) brides out there just like me who could benefit from Lindsay's experience.

General tips for staying on track with your budget:

1. Set your budget and then aim for one or two vendors to be below the prices you have allotted for them... it gives you "wiggle" room and then you will have money left over to either pocket and put away, add to some other aspect of the wedding, or to use for those unexpected expenses that sometimes creep up on you.

2. Use a budget chart.

Lindsay gave out the one she uses at the event and mentioned that she doesn't really like may of the ones offered online since they don't give you a sliding scale for each item to work with and they don't ask for your number of guests. Her exception to this was the budget calculator on Brides.com which she gave a thumbs up to (figuratively speaking there was very little actually thumbs up going on... it was very dignified).

3. Make a list of priorities.

This piece of advice really struck me as on point! I know for sure there are certain things I don't care about even a little and so I should allocate my budget accordingly... seems simple right? But sometimes its the simplest ideas that are the most clever. This is where the whole sliding scale thing comes in, don't care about invites (like me!) move that money into something that does matter to you (like yummy yummy food and good music! ok so maybe those are just my priorities).

Lindsay relayed her experience dealing with couples who spent too much money initially on stuff they didn't really care about not realizing they could have found a better price for slightly lower quality product (for example not having letterpress invitations, which I hear are very pricey, if thats not something you actually care about).

4. Look for the "Hidden Value." An example of a hidden value is a bridal suite offered by your ceremony/reception location. It's a hidden value (not just for the convenience) but because you can save money on transportation. If you can get ready at the ceremony site you do not need your transportation to take you there from your home/hotel, therefore you save money because you would have had to pay them for that time.

Bad Bride

Why am i a bad bride?

Well, in the excitement (and slight stress) of picking my wedding party - which was a very difficult task b/c I've got some pretty awesome people in my life - I was very unoriginal and slightly goofy in asking my BM's to be in my wedding party. Sadly, I come across so many awesome ideas on other peoples blogs about how they intend to/have asked their special people... and i am sad that I didn't do something special as well...

So how would I have done it?

20/20 hindsight, right? Let's say if i could have a redo... here's what I'd do...

I'd give them one of the following small gifts with a card...I'd have them open the gift first ...

(Image Source)

and then read the card. The card would read about one (maybe two... gotta save something for their gifts the day of) reason that it is important for me to have her in my wedding party... and then I would ask "Would you do me the honor of being in my bridal party?"

I know I can still do something special...but I'm just sad I missed the chance when i first had it. But since my BM's do read this, I'm not going to say if I will do anything now, at one of the showers/parties, or wait until the day of the wedding to do something special for them! Gotta keep 'em guessing!

*A cheap plug, but check out BeauCoup for more bridal party gift ideas! :)*

Help Give back...

BeauCoup via Bridechka and The Wedding!

"In the Beau-coup spirit of charitable giving, we are donating $5 from every order over $30 we receive between Monday, 12/15 and Friday, 12/19 to Second Harvest Food Bank. Second Harvest is a local non-profit working to provide food for low-income households. 100% of the donation will go toward the organization’s Annual Food and Fund Drive."

Wedding Paper Divas Product Review

In attempts to keep all giveaways, sponsors and products that I highlight, Wedding Paper Divas had sent me some samples to review! And since the current giveaway is going on right now (make sure to enter now!)... i figured what better time to highlight the product samples I was given!

More...



I was sent the three samples above.

1. Quality of paper - Very good/Excellent. The paper was sturdy, a very good feel... for my taste, just enough thickness but not too thick.
2. Quality of Ink/Font/Print - Very Good/Excellent. The ink and colors were evenly distributed, no smudges, no blurs, no unevenness in tone... Colors were also vibrant and distinct
3. Quality of photo - The most right invitation has a photo. It is important for those who want to incorporate photos, that they are printed at a good level of quality or else it can change the tone of the invite... nobody wants to have unevenness in the photo quality ... and these photos were beautifully printed. Picture quality on paper...
4. Quality of customer service - Aside from my own personal experience with the vendor (which is excellent), I decided to provide a link so you could see others' opinions! Their customer service is and seems excellent!
5. Quality of selection - Such a great variety... Wedding Invitations, Wedding Announcements, Thank you Cards, and Save the Date Cards!
6. Overall impression! I'm very happy to highlight their product on my site. Besides reasonable prices and a great selection to choose from, Wedding Paper Divas seem to have excellent quality products and a great customer service! What more could you ask for... oh wait, how about $100 free towards your purchase! Make sure to enter my contest to win!!! (Once a day, every day...until 12/22)

Look what I got...

Sabrina aka The Introverted Wife made this for me, and i had to share...

"It amazes me just how prolific Amy Jean is. She will be there to comment on your blog be it a well known high traffic or a small back lot one. This snowflake reminded me of her amazing tenacity to visit and comment on so many blogs to make someones day with the different repeating facets. On yeah you should also check out her blog The Relentless Bride as she's always got some amazing ideas."

Thanks Sabrina... i love that you always bring so much insight with your comments! Thanks for being such a loyal reader... and you know i'm an "Introverted" Groupie! :)

Holiday Spirit

So after a week of dreading the holidays, I used cooking and baking as a way to open my mind and heart to the holiday fun! And it worked (for now)... and aside from really achy legs and feet from standing all day, we had a blast!

See slideshows and fun
To start off, some pics of the gorgeous pups :)



And onto the baking!!!
Here's the recipe we used for sugar cookies! It was simple, but i think there are definitely some other ones that can make the cookies even tastier... Borrowed from here!

* 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
* 1 cup butter, softened
* 1 1/2 cups white sugar
* 1 egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
3. Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let stand on cookie sheet two minutes before removing to cool on wire racks

Check out all the designs... it was difficult to grasp, but we started to get the hang of it, and had a blast... FH enjoyed mocking, laughing, pointing and making fun of us too :)



Notice there was our gingerbread men in man-kini's? lol... and we used the Bells to incorporate into our design :)

**Sunday I awoke to the smells of bacon. when I got up to go to the restroom, FH saw me and scolded me... "go back to bed" and I was said "why? what are you doing?" only half awake and FH responded... "I'm trying to surprise you with breakfast in bed!!!" How sweet of him to cook me breakfast in bed... I'm such a lucky gal!**

Giving is Awesome

"The premise is simple: think of someone you know who deserves custom photography but can't afford it. Nominate them [at Giving is Awesome] to win it. Sit back and bask in your own awesomeness.

If you're looking for the photographer nearest you, check out the list...

Once you've found someone local, get nominating! PLEASE contact the individual photographer holding the regional contest about any questions or concerns you might have. Many winners will be chosen on Christmas Eve, but each photographer has chosen his or her own time to notify winners."

Pass it on!

Via $10,000 Only, $2000 Wedding , and a Practical Wedding

My Favorite things...

I have a favorite pair of chonies aka underwear/drawers/panties... Hanky Panky's! They are awesome and the most comfy chonies EVER!

And Lucky for me... they now have in soft blue (for something blue) and white..."I DO" Hanky Panky's!

(Image borrowed from here)

Introducing a NEW Sponsor!

I'm very happy to introduce the newest sponsor to The RelentlessBride!

I’m Over It is a jewelry leasing business that leases both formal wear and fun wear jewelry. So the jewelry you thought you can't afford to wear, or don't want to budget for, can be "leased" from this store... What a great way to look great and save money!

There is also a Shop Boutique where they have jewelry for purchase only. This jewelry has never been worn and it as all new.

At the moment I'm Over it is having a huge Shop Boutique Sale~ and they are trying to clear out this entire inventory to make room for some new Kenneth Jay Lane jewelry! SO, we are having a 50% off sale for all the Shop Boutique jewelry!!

Just add sparkle50 at checkout! Perfect for any holiday shopping! You can find some great sterling silver rings, cute clutches and tons of bangles!!

All I want for Christmas....

Here is FH's Christmas List:

Mortal Kombat vs. DC Universe (PS3)
Authentic Yankee Jersey (Road Gray) #62 (JOBA)
Tivo or DVR
Pride of the Yankees on DVD
Smiling Amy :)

Isn't he sweet?

Triple Tagged...

I've been triple tagged in the past few days, so i thought I'd go ahead and do those here together... The lovely ladies Crystal@Crystal Clear Reflections and Kate@(sub)urbanity have tagged me... so here I go!

Check out my Tags

Kate@(sub)urbanity has tagged me to list 6 random things about myself... and although i have done this before, I think I'm random enough to keep going...

The rules:
1. Link to the person that tagged you
2. Post the rules on your blog
3. Share six non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself
4. Tag six random people at the end of your post by linking to their blogs
5. Let each random person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their website.
6. Let your tagger know when your entry is up.

1. I have my mom's nail beds. Our hands are very similar and we have a mole in the same spot on our left palm!
2. I love flavored creamers for my coffee
3. I've been in six car accidents, all but one were allegedly "my" fault... but I've never had a moving violation. (knock on wood!)
4. I'm near sighted in one eye, far sighted in the other and was born with astigmatism. In High school, i had glasses that were like bifocals, needless to say, i didn't' wear them and my eyesight improved and now i only use my glasses for reading, long drives or just to look cute ;)
5. I've got the greatest man in my life... he cooks, he cleans, he pampers and he adores me... sometimes, not always in the ways I know how to appreciate, but I'm learning his "love language". I love that I fall in love with him more and more everyday
6. I have a Master's in international studies... Why? I can't answer that... lol
   

Crystal @Crystal Clear Reflections tagged me twice...

The rules are..
1. Put your iTunes on shuffle.
2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.
3. YOU MUST WRITE THAT SONG TITLE DOWN NO MATTER HOW SILLY IT SOUNDS!
4. Tag 10 friends who might enjoy doing the meme as well as the person you got the meme from.

IF SOMEONE SAYS "IS THIS OKAY" YOU SAY?
"Once in Love with Amy" Frank Sinatra

WHAT WOULD BEST DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY?
"Baby, One More time" Britney Spears

WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A GUY/GIRL?
"could you be loved" Bob Marley and the Wailers

HOW DO YOU FEEL TODAY?
"All I need to Know" Kenny Chesney

WHAT IS YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE?
"living on a prayer" Bon Jovi

WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO?
"My paper heart" The All American Rejects

WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU?
"Hollaback girl" Gwen Stefani

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN?
"Jesus, Take the Wheel" Carrie Underwood

WHAT IS 2+2?
"The Middle" Jimmy Eat World

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND?
"Oh What A night!"

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
"Our Song" Taylor Swift

WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY?
"life's what you make it" Hannah Montana

WHAT DO YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GROW UP?
"Globes and Maps" Something Corporate

WHAT DO YOU THINK WHEN YOU SEE THE PERSON YOU LIKE?
"Big Pimpin'" Papercut - Jay-Z/Linkin' Park Remix

WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU?
"Let's Fall in Love" Frank Sinatra

WHAT WILL YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING?
"Buffalo Soldier" Bob Marley

WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL?
"As I Am" Miley Cyrus

WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST?
"When the sun goes down" Kenny Chesney

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET?
Variations on the KanonGeorge Winston

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS?
"The more boys I meet" Carrie Underwood

WHAT'S THE WORST THING THAT COULD HAPPEN?
"Sexy Back" JT

HOW WILL YOU DIE?
"I am extraordinary" Liz Phair

WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU REGRET?
"Dancin' for the groceries" Kenny Chesney

WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH?
"Teardrops on my guitar" Taylor Swift

WHAT MAKES YOU CRY?
"Barbie Girl" Aqua

WILL YOU EVER GET MARRIED?
"Satisfy My soul" Bob Marley

WHAT SCARES YOU THE MOST?
"drunk Girl" Something corporate

DOES ANYONE LIKE YOU?
"Baby got Back" Sir mix a lot

IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE?
"Sweet Child o' mine" GnR

WHAT HURTS RIGHT NOW?
"Just like you" Hannah Montana

WHAT WILL YOU POST THIS AS?
"Because I got High" Afroman

***
Take a snippet from the closest book sitting near you... page 56... the 5th sentence.

The closest "book" near me has 46 pages, so in lieu of page 56, I'll do page 11, since 5+6=11...

Press FN twice to enter all numbers or symbols.

From my HTC FUZE manual guide... :-/

I will leave you at this, if you'd like to do any of the tags, just comment me back so i can link to you :)

Another Freebie!

One of my Fave Bloggers, Amanda@Peony::Love wanted me to pass along the word that she's got this great item FOR FREE...

It's brand new and just something she thought would fit into her wedding theme, but it does not. So if it fits in yours... Pop on over to Peony::Love and comment her!

Update: The item has been taken ! :) Thanks Amanda, you are sweet for parting with such a beautiful item! :)

Jealous Pup?

Why dogs can sense fair play

* Story Highlights
* Dogs appear to experience emotions like jealousy, pride, scientists find
* Until now, this behavior had only been shown in humans or chimpanzees
* Dogs hate to see affection to other dogs; can suffer if new baby or partner arrives

Read the article

From CNN!!!

LONDON, England (CNN) -- Dogs appear to experience a range of complex, unpleasant emotions such as jealousy and pride, scientists have discovered.

Until now, this type of behavior had only been shown in humans or chimpanzees, but researchers suspected that other species that live together could be sensitive to fair play -- or a lack of one.

"We are learning that dogs, horses, and perhaps many other species are far more emotionally complex than we ever realized," Paul Morris, a psychologist at the University of Portsmouth who studies animal emotions, told The Sunday Times.

"They can suffer simple forms of many emotions we once thought only primates could experience."

Scientists noted that dogs hate to see their owners being affectionate to other dogs and can suffer if a new baby or partner arrives on the scene.

To test the theory, Friederike Range and colleagues at the University of Vienna in Austria asked 33 trained dogs to extend a paw to a human.

The animals performed the trick virtually all of the time whether they were given a reward or not -- when alone or with another dog.

But the dogs' enthusiasm waned when they saw other dogs being rewarded but received nothing themselves.

Dogs that were ignored extended their paws much less often, doing so in only 13 out of 30 trials. They also showed more stress, such as licking or scratching themselves.

"They are clearly unhappy with the unfair situation", Range told New Scientist magazine. She also suspects that this sensitivity might stretch beyond food to more abstract things like praise and attention.

"It might explain why some dogs react with 'new baby envy' when their owners have a child," she said.

***This would explain why Juneau beats on Kota and pee'd on FH's Niece's High Chair that was indoors, after seeing FH on the floor playing with the baby... Interesting!***

A Great Cause-A Cinderella Affair

The end of the year is near, which means holidays full of thanksgiving and happy cheer. The New Year right around the corner usually is a great time to reflect upon the past, smile and be nostalgic but also to clear away the clutter... emotionally and material... So let me help with at least one aspect of that... the MATERIAL!

How can I help myself AND Others?

Wedding Hub Charities is holding an online dress drive for underprivileged high schoolers... The Cinderella Affair is "a yearly event held to assist underprivileged high school students with the high cost of prom by collecting and distributing gently-used formal wear." (Click Here for more info)

"For the cost of postage, you can make one high school girl feel like royalty for a night. So what are you waiting for?! Email Hannah to find out where to send your dresses on or before February 6, 2009, or if you are local, we’ll arrange to pick them up at a convenient location. All participants will be entered to win a surprise giveaway package, and take it from me, you’ll definitely enjoy this surprise. Okay, I’m bad at keeping surprises a secret, so I’ll tell you this: amongst other prize package items, one lucky lady will be walking away with the ability to do some serious damage at Target. Alright, but that’s it, my lips are sealed!"

I'm sure we all have a dress or two that could definitely be given to a great cause. Why not clear the clutter and make some beautiful young girl's day by donating your gently used dresses that you will most likely never wear again... even if you shorten it! You can make your "trash" someone else's "treasure!"

Please spread the word and contact Hannah if you have any questions or need more info!

1 Down...

I sent in my deposit for my photog today!!! HOORAY!!!

Who did I pick?

Remember when I asked for your opinion a few months back in this post? Well she's the Photog I chose!!!

Jordana was a referral from my WC, Paola. However, before Paola even gave me her name, she did give me a list of other photogs that I went through. I explained that I wanted a fresh creative vibe... and finally after a few more suggestions, she suggested Jordana of Hazelnut Photography!!! Knowing that Jordana was a friend of Paola's kind of helped me in my decision b/c I knew that she'd be good peeps since Paola is so great... and also I knew that they'd get along - which helps b/c Paola has been with me from the beginning helping me set my vision for the big day and knows what i want...

But what sealed the deal was the hour long conversation that Jordana and I had after a few email exchanges. She was awesome. Fun. Great vibes. Great attitude. She loves what she does. Her Prices are SOOOO reasonable! Her work is EXCELLENT. I really enjoyed her over the phone!

Booking a vendor from long distance, sometimes all you have is email/phone... but since that conversation until now - I've stalked Jordana's blog and have seen such great visuals that seem to only get better (if that's even possible)... I didn't think it'd be so easy to just "know" when i found the right photog, so i waited over a month to see if anybody else struck me... and while i saw some great work, there's just something about Jordana...

So without further Ado... a few of my fave shots from her Blog (all images are from her new blog and her old blog)!

The ever so chic and beautiful BrokeAssBride and her lovely Hunter...

Yeimy & Ronald

Brett&Tracy

One of my all time faves:

Make sure to check out more at Jordana's Blog!!! I'm so excited that I got her as my photog!!!

Awesome Wedding Giveaway!

Our second giveaway here at The RelentlessBride is an awesome $100 towards stationary at Wedding Paper Divas! I, of course, LOVE Wedding Paper Divas as you can recall when I won my own $100 towards their store on the DCNearlyWeds blog. And after receiving some samples of the products last week to review, I couldn't be more excited to promote such a great company with great designs, awesome quality and reasonable prices...

So I'm Uber excited to be hosting my own $100 giveaway... and here's how you can win!

In these upcoming cold winter months, to help you shake off the cold, I want you to envision your ideal destination wedding. That's right... what is your ideal destination wedding?

Now, go to the Signature Collection of Wedding Invitations at Wedding Paper Divas and select a design that best represents your ideal destination wedding!

Then, Save the design in your account on Wedding Paper Divas (which is easy to do and takes but a few seconds)

Finally, and MOST importantly, be sure to share your destination inspiration and card design you picked and comment that here on my blog.

Rules:
Winner to be drawn at random by you to win a $100 gift certificate.
Contest to run from December 8 through the 22nd.
Open to contestants worldwide.

You are allowed to enter once a day, everyday from 12/8-12/22 to increase your chances of winning!
The winner will be selected by random!

So what are you waiting for, get on it!!!

Videographer - How to pick one?

So I researched a bit, and here's what I was found in regards to finding a videographer!!!

Advice on picking a Videographer

1. Do research.
   When you find a videographer, look into his/her background, experience, knowledge, and credentials.
2. Look at Footage.
   Ask to see past work done. Make sure the feel of the videographers' eye fits what you are looking for. What is the tone you want to set? Do you want it to be more documentary style, or more creative and artsy? Check the quality of the work - audio and visual. Is the quality good?
   
3. References
   Look into the past clients. Did they have positive experiences? Did the videographer maintain a professional attitude throughout the experience - from booking, to actual filming, to the end product?
4. Communication
   Is the vendor good at communicating and answering all your questions? From booking a consult and beyond, communication is key. Does the videographer seem to understand what you want? Do they explain the services that are included? Do they tell you what is not included that you may additionally want? Will they include little montage teasers for you?
5. Editing
   Did you like the way they edited the footage? Do they give you an option of full footage and/or edited footage? What is the price difference?
   
6. Equipment
   If you are knowledgeable at all, inquire into the equipment. Or if you just want to compare with other vendors.
   
7. Actual Videographer
   Sometimes if its a larger company, they may send someone else out. Ask who will actually be filming the day of
8. Price
   Compare! Expensive doesn't always mean better. How much time is included in the price?
   
9. Read the fine print (as with any vendor)
   Find out what the price includes/excludes. The time they will filming for. All the little details must be attended to before you sign the contract.
10. Do you like the person?
    It is important you like the person. It makes life easier, and you will feel more comfortable the day of. Also, in sync with liking the person's personality, do you trust and have confidence in this person.

What were your guidelines in choosing a videographer? Did you find that it wasn't so easy? Any advice for us brides still looking?

Borrowed from EastSide Bride

Something cute borrowed from East Side Bride...inspired by Peonies and Polaroids!

More...

Piglet sidled up to Pooh from behind. "Pooh," he whispered.

"Yes, Piglet?"

"Nothing," said Piglet, taking Pooh's paw, "I just wanted to be sure of you."

Videographer-Do I need one?

I'm not sure if you recalled when I reached out to my readers about picking a videographer a couple months back... Well I'm back to revisit this topic!

Is it worth the expense?

The first thing to consider is... Do i really need a videographer? And my outright answer will be "YES!!!" But let me tell you why!

1. "nothing captures the true experience of being at an event than having life-like moving images... and audio. These are elements that still photography simply can't match." {From this article}
   Now that we are fortunate to have the technology to capture such memories, I think its definitely worth it! Sure, some people say - you will never watch it but for one time, and that may be true - but its something you leave behind. Memories are priceless!!
2. A friend once told me: Get a videographer! You get to see things you missed b/c you were so busy. She told me, she didn't realize 95% of the things that happened while she was "hostessing" and the things she did get to witness, all went by in a big blur-her wedding video presented to her... her wedding!
   "Couples often feel as though their wedding day went by in a blur. After months of planning and effort, the big day comes in a rush, and everything happens so fast and with such emotion that before they know it, the day is over." {From this article}
3. I know that my mother and my FMIL/FFIL would love it and definitely want it!
4. I may get nostalgic one day and want to watch it... I want to make sure that re-living it is even an option
5. What if my grandkids or great grandkids want to watch it? I'd love to leave that behind so they could see a part of my life. If i could, I'd love to see my grandparents' (or even parent's) wedding day!
6. It's a part of history, and the best way to record it would be with live images to go along with my still images!
7. If I've dreamed of this day my whole life, and now the day has come... and I can actually record this big day, why wouldn't i?
   

Granted, it is an extra expense... but if I've come this far... and I've always known that pictures and video would be one thing that I'd like to get for the big day!

Did you get a videographer? or Are you getting a videographer? What was your reasons for or against it? Advice?

UPDATE: Just ran across another blogger's post about finding her videographer at NewportNuptials. She puts some great suggestions in the post, so i thought i'd add that link to share with y'all... can't have too much info!!!

We love a Sale!!!

Look who's having a sale?!?! And who doesn't love sales! From holiday favors to fun party favors, Baby Showers and Bah/Bar Mitzvahs, and of course are favorite ... WEDDING FAVORS... BeauCoup is having FREE Shipping on purchases of $50 or more!

Absolutely Festive and scrumptious looking!

Divorce? Eeek!!!

Thanks to Classicly Modern, I stumbled upon the "Divorce Calculator"

Luckily for me!!??

**************
People with similar backgrounds who are already divorced: N/A (0 years of marriage entered)

People with similar backgrounds who will be divorced over the next five years: 4%

**************

Have you been Weddzilla-d?

After my BFF's recent engagement, I was encouraging her to sign up on the Weddzilla site. It was then I realized, that I haven't even fully explored the site with my own readers... so I thought I would share!

What's Weddzilla?

I love Weddzilla!! Not only was I asked to be a guest blogger on their site a few months ago, but it was at the Weddzilla Launch Party that I won my very first "raffle" type prize towards stationary. The launch party was so much fun (samplings of cake and chocolate fountains, vendors from skin care to limo services, dance services, stationary etc), and it was there that I met the co-founders - Aaron and Kristen!

The story:
Basically, Kristen-while planning her own wedding to Aaron, realized the stress that surrounds wedding planning had a solution!

"I asked myself after dozens of unanswered phone calls and passed deadlines while planning my wedding, 'why can't the vendors come to me?'" said Kristen Carter, co-founder of Weddzilla.com. "We developed a site that will be a valuable resource for brides and the solution for brides' wedding stresses." {From the Reuter's Artcle}

So what is Weddzilla?

"Weddzilla.com is a website designed to help brides plan the perfect wedding. Our unique tools allow brides to post what they need and vendors have vendors come to them. Vendors can search the Weddifieds for brides whose needs match their budget, location, or availability. Cut down the time it takes to find the right vendors! No other site brings the Vendors to you and helps you stay within your budget!" {From Weddzilla FAQ Page}

Make the vendors come to the bride... Make the vendors come to the bride!!! What a great idea! You post your "project" (i.e., DJ's, Bands, Photographers, Florists, Hair&Make-up etc) and they "bid" on your project.

So if you are a bride in search of some new fresh vendors, reasonable prices or just want to see what options you might have - why not post a project? It takes two minutes to post and it expands your network to choose from nationwide instantly!

Check it out and let me know what you think! :)

UPDATE: Please take a look at Kristen's comment on this post. Over 15,000 VENDORS registered WORLDWIDE! Also, for any of you other great brides that blog, if you want to be part of a great site and share your stories, Kristen leaves instructions in the comments on how to do so! I love the site, Kristen and Aaron are FABULOUS and it really is "Wedding Planning SIMPLIFIED!"

**You can contact Weddzilla at info@weddzilla.com and make sure to mention me, AmyJean @Relentless Bride so they know to totally hook you up with this great program!**

My BFF is getting married!!! :)

My BFF from High School just got engaged on Friday and I couldn't be more thrilled.

Hear more about the proposal and See a pic of her fabulous ring!

On Friday, MLL's now-fiance was in town from across the country. She had to work the day after Thanksgiving and was doing a move across town over that holiday weekend. When she returned Friday from work, her fiance had prepared a 6 course meal of dishes from all the places they traveled together. He put pictures up from all the places they traveled all over her walls and presented her with 4 dozen roses. He then proposed during the 6-course.

What my friend did not know was that he had already took a trip to visit her mother and spent the weekend with her family to ask for their blessing. He had taken trip(s) to help design the ring b/c he knew exactly what she wanted. And what i love most about this proposal is that he really took to heart what she wanted and went the lengths to give her the best of what he could...

So without further ado... her beautiful engagement ring! So suitable for her and it couldn't be more beautiful!


Can you tell I'm so excited? I am so happy for her, can't wait for her Mid-summer wedding in 2009 and am honored to be part of it! :) Congrats Guys, you both deserve all the happiness in the world!

Another Great Picture Idea

Via TearDrop Weddings (she's full of great ideas!!! image below borrowed from her blog)...

This program is called Poladroid Imagemaker and its very easy. You just download the program, and then drag and drop your own photos and it makes it look like a Polaroid picture. Currently there is only a Mac version, but they did announce that they are releasing a PC version VERY soon! How COOL!

Thank you Teardrop Weddings for yet another fantabulous idea!

Introduction of New Sponsor: Beau Coup

I'm very excited to announce that BeauCoup is one of my newest Sponsors. After a successful giveaway, we put our heads together and realized that my readers love unique ideas at great bargain prices and BeauCoup definitely has some of the most Unique Wedding favors around. So I was really excited to add another sponsor that I'm particular fond of for their great ideas, reasonable prices, and love of anything wedding (or party celebrations).

So make sure to stop by BeauCoup and see the awesome list of great things they have. And remember, its not just wedding favors, but other personalized items such as:

Bridal Party Gifts

Wedding Decorations

Bridal Shower Gifts

and so much more! anything party related, it seems BeauCoup has, so make sure to check out their store!!! :)