From Carrico to Davis

Our Journey

2009-10-05T21:21:00.004-04:00

...and it came and went. We've now officially been married for one FULL month, with many more to go. It's amazing to sit back and realize how fast this month has really flown by. It's not just amazing - it's crazy. Not much has changed - but emotionally, so much has.

Over the past month - and honestly, every day of our relationship - I've fallen in love with Eric all over again. I truly see, that God's gift to me, was him - my best friend. It's hands-down, the best feeling in the world to say the phrase: "my husband".

Planning our wedding was a dream come true. It was everything I dreamt about - everything I pictured - everything we wanted, together. From the engagement night, to catering meetings, to dress shopping, crafting nights with Mom and late-night talks about how we thought the day would end up. Words cannot explain how it felt to wake up Sunday, September 6th - married. As cheesy as it sounds, it was a sense of peace. A sense of completion - that our lives were meant for this.

When I first met Eric, I had no idea we'd spend the rest of our lives together. But, one month into it - I knew we had something extremely special. I felt comfortable, honest, and at home. One month after being married - I'm even more convinced that our imperfections makes us perfect for each other.

Words can not describe how excited I am about our future. But, at the same time - how much I want to soak in every ounce, slowly. Our relationship is honestly, one-of-a-kind. When you wake up, knowing you'd give anything to see that one person smile - you feel a sense of accomplishment. Our relationship is my accomplishment. I've never been more proud of anyone I've ever met. For his ability to love, his desire to succeed, his passion for our future and his ability to make me smile, when I feel like the world has walked out.

If you asked me what part of planning our Big Day was the best - it'd change almost every minute. I loved piecing together ideas, stumbling through the bad ones. I loved watching what we wanted from the beginning come true. From the bridesmaid dress color, table linens, flowers, and most importantly my dress fitting. I loved the moment Eric asked me to marry him, when I went running through the condo hall screaming and jumping up and down. I loved picking and choosing food choices, color arrangements, and our vendors. I loved everything about our engagement pictures, our Save-the-Dates and wedding invitations. I loved knowing from the beginning we wanted those who knew our relationship the most to surround us. Having our family and close friends next to us - kept us grounded.

I love reliving the moments when we "just knew" we found the "something" that would be part of our wedding. Putting together every detail, knowing some may not even notice, was one of the "best's". I love sharing all of the excited moments, stating how proud we are of each detail and smiling from ear to ear. I loved listening to our First Dance song, and immediately agreeing what we heard "was it". I kept telling myself, "Being engaged is perfect!" - Being married surpasses that...by millions of miles.

Robert Fulghum writes it perfectly in "Union":

"Look at one another and remember this moment in time. Before this moment you have been many thing to one another - acquaintance, friend, companion, lover, dancing partner, even teacher, for you have learned from one another these past few years. Shortly you shall say a few words that will take you across a threshold of life, and things between you will never quite be the same."

"Never quite" is an understatement. Despite not much changing on the outside, everything has on the inside. Eric has taught me to not be scared of what love can bring - to not hold back. He's taught me to never give up. No matter what, no matter if every detail was in the wrong place, the cake fell over, the tuxedos didn't match - no matter what, it was going to be the first of many, and it was going to be "our day". It was everything and more.

Tonight, just like last night, I'll fall asleep knowing I have someone who protects me, who comforts me, who trusts me, and who loves me. I have someone to share our joys, as well as sorrows - our triumphs, as well as defeats. To have and to hold, from this day forward. For better or worse. For richer or poorer. In sickness and in health. To love and to cherish. Someone beside me, for as long as we both shall live.

What our future holds is our journey.

Picture Perfect Thank-You's

2009-09-28T22:02:00.015-04:00

They're FINALLY finished...

...the wedding thank-you cards have been completed! :) The entire time we were planning our wedding, we always imagined a small guest list. After almost 50 thank-you cards...I'm warning those large guest list couples - be prepared to suffer writer's cramp! Of course, the evening wasn't complete until after I re-read the entire stack of "To the Bride & Groom" cards. Goosebumps starts immediately!

I've slowly started to change everything from Carrico to Davis - which, is taking longer than I hoped. How could the world NOT know that we've been married for 23 - TWENTY-THREE - days! Geez! The first place to make the immediate correction was the last place I thought about contacting...the post office. I've started to receive several packages, cards, (worse) bills as "Emily Davis" - and next to each of them was a giant "?" As in, "I'm reading the address - but the name is wrong." Actually, Mr. Postman - it's correct. I contacted the lovely lady at the office, and she made the correction, in her words, "immediately". Let's just hope they don't stop delivering everything else that still reads "Carrico"!

Now that I've looked back - I completely forgot to mention that our wedding pictures are "in"! Nicole & Dan did an ABSOLUTELY, AMAZING, PERFECT-O job! They are beyond what we expected. Each picture captures every detail, every ounce we hoped for. Of the 500+, I think I have well over 300 favorites! :) Here's just a few from Nicole's website...aren't they BEAUTIFUL! :)

Honeymoon Bliss

2009-09-22T09:00:00.005-04:00

We're officially back home - and back to what others call "normal" - and our emotions are between two. (1) We're upset our honeymoon is over, because we had an UNBELIEVABLE time...and (2) We're happy to be home - something about coming home after being away feels so good.

We flew out of Indianapolis, headed towards San Juan, on Saturday, the 12th. Of course, I waited until Friday night - as in after 9pm - to pack our suitcases. However, even after cleaning up our apartment!, we were in bed shortly after 11pm. We each had one suitcase to ourselves, then a carry-on. By the end of our trip, we had one suitcase full of dirty clothes - the second full of "stuff" we didn't realize we brought!

With a pit stop in Atlanta, we were in San Juan shortly after lunchtime. The difference in the weather is, pretty much, unexplainable! Immediately walking off the airplane, you felt the heat - but, it was the only heat worth waiting for. We took a taxi from the airport to the Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino - where we stayed for the night. Once arriving at the hotel, we dropped our bags and headed for "lunch". I put the word in quotes, only because - by this time - it was 2pm and you can consider it whatever part of the meal-cycle you wish! We walked, a whooping 10 feet across the street to a nice seafood grill and bar, and shared a plate of assorted seafood.

Afterwards, we headed back to the hotel room and switched into our swimsuits and headed for the beach. The water was the perfect temperature! We walked up and down the beach, stopping at several points to really "take in" the fact we were on our honeymoon. We walked down towards other hotels, until we decided it was time to head back and order dinner. Of course, in classic room-service style, there's nothing better than two $66 hamburgers, fries and dessert! (Thanks, Dad!) :)

We woke up Sunday morning, beyond excited about meeting our newest additional - our SHIP. (Yes, we cruised along on a ship - not a boat. You can put a boat on a ship, you can't put a ship on a boat. Get it right.) We weren't allowed to board until 2pm, so we kindly asked Marriott to hold our bags while we walked around San Juan. Of course, now that we know - we should have ventured on over to the ship first thing...we had a few drinks at the hotel bar before deciding to grab a taxi. Immediately when we hopped out of the taxi - we noticed the worst line in the WORLD. We took our bags and started standing...and standing...and standing...and standing. OK, I get it - you're probably telling yourself, "Gee, it must be rough - standing outside awaiting the arrival of an amazing Caribbean cruise." - But, the first line wasn't what made the few hours irritating - it was the second. The first line we stood in was essentially the "drop your bags and stand" line. The second line was twice as long - which, of course, was the line to actually get ON the ship.

After verifying our passports and receiving our handy, ever-important SeaPass-es, we were ready to roam the ship. We headed straight for our stateroom to drop our carry-ons and venture around. Not much was open that afternoon, but there was enough "ooo-ing" and "awh-ing" that it felt like we had something meaningful to do. We went straight to the Sports Bar on the ship to enjoy a drink and caught the end of the Colts game (which was a win, only another great part of the week!). That night we opted for the Windjammer Cafe, versus the formal dining hall - just to "get a feel". Come to find out, the same food items were served! We weren't originally planning to watch the Welcome Parade, but by chance, found ourselves standing in the middle of it.

The first full day in our new home, we were at sea. The ship has a million things to do - outside of sitting back and relaxing. We decided to head to the top and sat in the sun, by the pool, and enjoyed the afternoon. Of course, Eric got burned - as did I, but no one really noticed until the day after...but either way - the weather was beautiful. Not a cloud in the sky! That night was our first "formal" dining dinner, out of two. We dressed up - and enjoyed the most amazing food possible - well, at this point, the best we had eaten in a long time! That night we watched the ship leave San Juan, which was really neat to see. We sailed off for the islands!

Day Three we arrived in Bridgetown, Barbados. Really - this wasn't our favorite island. I should start this by saying - I'm completely aware it's kind of hard to dock a ship alongside the glamorous beach...but pulling up into a shipping warehouse wasn't really what we were expecting. After walking off the ship, and through the designed "mall" - we were bombarded by taxi drivers. We took a van into "the city", where we were approached once again. We decided not to take a tour of the island and opted to walk around ourselves. There was very little to see, and more to smell. We were extremely disappointed with "the city" - but realized afterwards, it WAS their city - where the residents carry on their day-to-day lives. Eric did find a steal-of-a-deal on a soccer jersey - which made the day complete. We headed back to the ship to rest, wash up and head to the "Invitation to Dance" production show. Being a former member of show choir - this was kind of my thing. I enjoyed it - Eric, he sat there and smiled. We headed to dinner afterwards, and walked around the ship before heading to bed.

Wednesday, we arrived in Castries, St. Luica - which, with as little words as possible, was one of the best islands of the pack. This time, after be persuaded several times, we decided to take a car-tour of the entire island. Vincent (our tour driver) explained so many interesting facts about the island as we were driving from spot to spot. He explained their means of living, their family culture, education, food - but most importantly the "understanding" of what it means to honk your car horn. Eric and I noticed almost immediately, he was honking at the car in front of him, as well as passing cars. We asked Vincent what he was trying to say by honking - and, unlike when I honk my car horn! - it's a code for other drivers. When one driver honks at another - it simply means "Hi! I know you!" - not "Hey! Get out of my way! Move! Geez!" :) After the tour, we headed back to the ship, to rest (as you can see, this became a theme of our afternoons!) and prepared for dinner and the Love & Marriage Game Show. No, we didn't participate - in fact, we didn't really "qualify" for the participation rules. By this time, we had been married for more than one week - but not close to the middle of the pack, or nowhere near the longest-wed couple. It received mixed reviews - it was funny to watch, but some of the things the contestants said and did, were just a little "not our style". Definitely, NOT a game for children. We'll keep it at that.

Our next stop was St. Johns, Antigua - where, instead of a tour, we opted to take a taxi to the beach. Before heading to the beach, we walked around the island - where Eric found a pair of sunglasses (which was the item he was hoping to find while we were on the islands). Once at the beach, the water was (I know I'm saying this word far too many times!) amazing! It wasn't too cold, wasn't too hot. The sand was soft enough to sit and lay on, but strong enough for us to take a nice walk around. I was surprised to find it wasn't that crowded...that was until I realized they had over 100 named beaches! After the beach, we headed back to the city, where we were asked again by (what seemed like) millions of drivers if we wanted to go someplace else. One guy asked us if we wanted to "go to the beach" - after we said we just got back, he looked at Eric's sandy feet for verification...strange, really. We headed back to ship in time for the ice show before dinner. The ice show was definitely more entertaining to the BOTH of us, than the dance show. It was amazing, watching what they were doing - in such a small section - not to mention, in the middle of the Caribbean waters on the third deck of a giant ship! This night was also our second and final formal night at dinner. We definitely impressed the crowd - of just the two of us at our table! :)

Day Six from beginning to end was extremely fun - but hot. At 8am, it was 89 degrees - because in St. Maarten I was able to receive a cell phone signal (not to mention UK was playing Louisville, and missing it on TV was hard enough...) - I looked at my phone, and it was a cool, 63 degrees back home. St. Maarten was definitely the most commercialized island - and one of the prettiest. The beaches were white, the water was TEAL - the skies were the pretty blue from the Crayola box...but the stores were entertaining. We walked into the most jewelry stores to last us a lifetime - walking out with nothing, mind you. I was close to purchasing a right-hand ring, even got as far as the salesman (Vicky) deciding he would size it for me, allow me to wear it all over the island and come back to him before we left to pay for it - he was sure I wouldn't find anything like it. I decided I liked it, but didn't love it - and opted not to take him up on his deal. We did swing into Majesty Jewelers to pick up a Parazul bag for Mom. She had emailed the store, asking if they had a specific design in stock. The owner took it upon himself, to not only take it off the shelf and hold it for us, but to have it wrapped up, attached was her email - waiting for us to arrive. By this time, Eric had his fair share of highlights - the $1.25 Heineken beer - not to mention the local beer given to him by Vicky for waiting patiently. We decided to eat lunch at a restaurant on the beach instead of going back to the ship. It felt great to sit down and eat something - but the walk back to the ship in the blazing heat got to us. We both immediately walked into our stateroom with huge headaches.

By Day Seven we were pretty sure St. Maarten was going to be our favorite island - that was until we stepped out onto St. Croix. We listened to the shopping-pro lady and took the 25 minute van ride into Christianstead. Apparently this great strip of shopping was to surround us immediately...not so much. There were plenty of shops (which I did find a perfect pair of Coach sunglasses, for a great price!) - but it still felt empty. Each store we walked into, we were asked two questions: a) Are you from the "boat"? b) Are you on your honeymoon?. I didn't realize we could be read that easily! We hung around Christianstead for a little bit, deciding to head back to Frederiksted Pier (where the ship docked). There was an immediate difference in the atmosphere - music was playing, people were walking, a marketplace set up for all sorts of souvenirs (which I successfully bargained for a stuffed animal for Hobbes!). Not to mention the Navy Pier display setup along the beach, the rocks you could walk down on into the ocean. On top of the beautiful scenic views and people - there was Fort Frederik which - for the day - was transformed into a local art show. We walked in, not really knowing what to expect, when we were greeted by a local volunteer explaining we could roam around and enjoy. It was neat, seeing what was left and in it's condition over the years. The art show section was strange - but interesting to see what the artists used and their finished work.

The staff on the ship were the most friendliest people we have ever met. Thomas - our stateroom attendant - was extremely helpful and had a great smile. No matter what time of day you bumped into him, he'd always throw you his signature smile and yell, "Helloooo THERE!" We'd see him taking care of other rooms, say hi and he'd wave. We gave him a good laugh the night we locked ourselves out of room - but I'm sure that's not the first time (nor will it be the last!) he's been asked for help. In the dining room, we were lucky to have Diana and Dione as our waiter and assistant waiter. Diana was from Romania, while Dione is from the Philippines. Both were so friendly, and had great personalities. We taught Diana how to say the phrase "Holy Cow!" - which was fantastic! She would sit and talk to us about her life, her marriage (which, her husband of three years also worked on the ship!) and life in Romania. This was going to be the last "contract" she and her husband worked with Royal Caribbean. Trying to understand Dione's broken English was a trick amongst itself - but he brought plenty of fun to our table. He, too, always had a smile on his face! Eric and I walked away saying, we had the BEST staff on the ship!

Of course, the last night Eric and I decided to hang out at the Sports Bar to watch the Texas football game - but I wanted to say good-bye to Diana one last time. I walked into the room and she came right up to me. She had this concerned look on her face when she saw Eric wasn't with me. I told her that we were extremely sorry, but we wouldn't be joining her for dinner that night - and that instead we'd be downstairs enjoying some football. Her direct quote was, "Oh, I know how that is. I have a husband of my own!" I loved it. She gave me a huge hug and wished us the best in the future. The last night we were in the dining hall - she came up to us and told us we felt like friends - that makes us feel extremely happy!

We had an amazing trip - one where we feel we needed seven more days to do everything else we didn't do. It was crazy the amount of things to do on the ship - the pools, the bars, the casino, the shows, the FOOD, the hidden ice cream stand (which Eric found and demanded we stopped by!), the ping-pong tables, putt-putt course...not to mention the ship shops and entertainment itself.

It was everything and more - the perfect start to our life as a married couple! :)

P.S. I promise to share pictures - but right now, it's extremely late and, really, this post is long enough! I'll update pictures soon - let's just say, you'll be jealous. Extremely jealous.

Packing & Purchase

2009-09-10T19:29:00.003-04:00

We're just hours away from packing up and heading to the b-e-a-utiful Caribbean beaches...and I couldn't be happier! :) Deciding to go back to work for a few days in between probably sounded like a good idea before...but it's felt like the longest four days EVER.

I've taken a look at the weather next week at each of the islands we'll be landing at. It looks like we might run into a little rain here-and-there...but we're okay with that. We've decided to pack the ponchos and walk the tours wet if we have to! I did visit one of my restaurants today, was talking with the manager about our honeymoon - then, mentioned the weather outlook. After only working with the company since April, his direct quote was: "You would look at the weather this far out." - Am I that easy to read?!

On a lighter note, last night at 7:09pm - we did make the first big purchase as Mr. & Mrs. Davis! :) We brought home our lovely Dyson vacuum!! As I told Amanda, I fell in love. It all stemmed from the lamps we received as a wedding gift. I went to open the box and got Styrofoam all over the place. I had to make a return at Target and told Eric that I wanted to pick up a hand vacuum while we were inside. He finally convinced me that instead of spending the $50 on the hand-vac...let's just dive in and buy the real-deal. While in Bed, Bath & Beyond, I tried to convince Eric to "stop and breathe in the moment" - but he was more focused on the ice cream stop we planned to hit on our way home. Hey, it's not everyday we married folks purchase vacuums! :)

Either way - the suitcases are now sitting in the middle of our living room...completely empty. Which is better than by the front door - on top of the millions of boxes we had left over from our amazing gifts. We've put together the pieces that needed it, and found homes for most of the gifts. We'll begin the thank you card immediately when we return...I'd pack them with me to write on the airplane, but I don't want to add to the 50 lb. limit we have for our bags!

I've written up a list of items "not to forget", as well as last minute stops before we leave. Needless to say, tomorrow will be a jam-packed day! But, we're so stinkin' excited! :)

We've now been married for 5 days...it doesn't feel any different - but it sure if fun saying "my husband"!

We're HITCHED! :)

2009-09-08T13:32:00.002-04:00

We've officially been married for 3 days! :)

Saturday was absolutely perfect. It was nerve-racking, breathtaking, full of excitement and happy tears. The entire night was flawless. It hit me at 3:00 when I was ready to put my dress on, that I was going to be married. It hit me when Kelly helped put on Mamaw's pearls and Amanda made her pre-wedding toast. It hit me when Dad and I turned to walk down the aisle and I saw my groom at the end.

The understatement of the year: when people kept saying, "Enjoy it! It goes by so fast!" they weren't kidding. I swear we blinked and next thing we know - we're hitched and driving home Sunday morning as Mr. & Mrs.

It was a great feeling having those we love around us. For them to be with us, sharing in our happiness - was exactly what we dreamed. We danced the night away - have memories to last us for years!! - and soaked up every ounce of love.

We'd like to thank everyone who helped to make our night was it was.

To Mom & Dad - You are our inspiration. We couldn't thank you enough for it all! We love you!

To Betsy & Bob - Thank you, thank you, thank you for starting off our weekend in style! :)

To our Grandparents - Your love and support has helped us grow, not alone - but together.

To Amanda, Dana, Kelly, Neil, Dan & Ryan - Words cannot describe how important it was to have you with us. You've seen us as our worst, and now, at our best. You are our family.

And, to our Family & Friends - Thank you being part of our Big Day! We were surrounded by those who love us and share in the memories for years to come.

Of course, I've made several phone calls this morning and afternoon, having to correct myself half-way through, as "Emily Carrico" and not "Emily Davis". Not sure I "feel" any different - but something in the air is definitely different.

This week Eric and I are packing and planning for our Caribbean Adventure! :) We're headed to San Juan on Saturday - with, what feels like thousands of things to take care of before.

A very, very special thank you to Randy & Kathy for our amazing wedding present! Our honeymoon will now be even that much more amazing!

From Carrico to Davis

2009-09-05T08:02:00.002-04:00

This is it. Today has finally come, and I'm the happiest I've ever been! For the last year and a half we've worked to make every detail real and fall into place. Today it will - or it won't - and at the end, I get to marry my best friend.

No more fiance. No more checklists. No more countdowns. I can pack my bride binder up and put together a box of everything we've collected over the last months. No more meetings or appointments. No more last walkthroughs.

Today is the day every little girl dreams about. Today is the day when falling in love means so much more. We've worked for years memorizing every ounce of each other - starting from the inside. This is the day where it's true.

Eric, you are my world. You are my best friend. You made it so easy to fall in love with - and even easier to grow with. You are my home. Every day, every hour, every minute we're together - I learn something new. You amaze me with your smile, how big your heart is and how you're not afraid. You have a desire to achieve your dreams, that most never realize. Today, you are my groom - but more importantly, tonight you are my husband. I love you (mosterest!) and I'm blessed to share my life with you. Forever. Tons and Bunches, Butch! :)

This is it. Today I go from Carrico to Davis.

The Last Night

2009-09-04T22:33:00.003-04:00

Tonight the entire bridal party, parents, Judge Barton, our flutists and grandparents met at Laurel Hall for our ceremony rehearsal. As quickly as possible we ran through the processional, walked through several important parts throughout the ceremony, the back down the aisle. A few tweaks were needed, but overall it went quite nicely. However, at this point - I fear we may have given Ryan far too many responsibilities!

After the ceremony rehearsal, we were off to Olive Garden for the Rehearsal Dinner. To see everyone around us, was perfect. Of course, Eric and I did try to say a few nice words - but I couldn't get through the first line without crying! Go figure. Eric did a fantastic job letting everyone know how thankful we were to have them there and how much the guys and girls standing next to us mean.

Betsy and Bob, thank you. Tonight was wonderful. To be surrounded by those we love, and who love us, was exactly what we dreamed. We love you!

Of course, now the crackdown begins. When I wake up in the morning - it will be our day. Right now I'm taking this moment to breathe, soak it all in. Everything we've done for the last year, will come together in the end - and if something falls through, we're okay - because we're together.

At this point - I have no clue whether I'll sleep tonight or not. I'm not nervous yet - just a mix between excitement and calm...which, unfortunately, I think is causing butterflies! :)

0 days, 2 hours, 26 minutes, 14 seconds

TOMORROW

2009-09-04T14:10:00.002-04:00

Happy Wedding Eve to Eric and I!! :)

We're just HOURS away from taking the plunge and I couldn't be more excited! Earlier this morning, the posse of ladies and I headed to Laurel Hall to setup the reception rooms. Everything looks amazing. I love, love, love the chocolate brown table cloths! The flowers look perfect. The fountains were on, the waterfall working - absolutely stunning.

Emotions were running loud and proud the entire morning. It's finally hit everyone, tomorrow is THE day. For a year and half - we've been planning and putting together every ounce of detail, but unfortunately something will go wrong. And, something already has. (We originally requested ivory-colored plates from our caterer, and were given the "okay". However, we did not receive them this morning, and unfortunately there isn't enough time for them to arrive tomorrow afternoon. We'll eat on the white plates - and we'll love it!)

I've started to pack anything and everything we need. Our clothes for Saturday night and the brunch on Sunday, our shoes, toothbrushes - you name it, I've got it. And the top most important items are right on top - our rings and our license!

Tomorrow - TOMORROW - I will have a husband, a best friend for life. No matter how it plays out or what sort of emotions run - it will be perfect because he's there. This is what love feels like.

0 days, 9 hours, 18 minutes and 32 seconds

DAYS Away!!

2009-09-02T15:52:00.005-04:00

Over the last few days I feel that little has happened, when really alot has!

First of all, Monday afternoon I met Nicole (our photographer - she's more our friend now, than just our photographer!) for lunch to discuss the schedule set for Saturday and any "detailed" shots we were hoping for. After almost THREE hours (!!) later we settled out times and ideas. Granted only about a half hour was needed for actual wedding-day talk. Now I just need to write out a list of group shots we're wanting and we'll be set.

Last night I met with DJ Ryan and finished up the Reception Planner. DJ Ryan is such an awesome guy! He gets the flow of our reception and our ideas 100%. More importantly, he's just so down-to-earth. I'm very excited to have him (and his wife!) as part of our Big Day!

The programs have been printed and folded. The table numbers have been completed AND the place cards are in the printer as we speak (or...in this case, as I type). The arch has just a few minor tweaks to make and after that - it's done! :)

Tomorrow the guys pick up their tuxedos while myself and the girls are scheduled or nail appointments. I also am picking my dress up from being steamed and dropping my ring off to get cleaned.

On an even better note - family is starting to arrive! :) Earlier today Mamaw and Papaw arrived and we immediately put them to work...OK, I didn't - but Mom did! Later tonight MarMar and Kelly will arrive from Ohio, followed by Katie, Uncle Hal and Uncle Pat Thursday night - and the rest of the pack Friday/Saturday.

At this point - I'm definitely between two emotions. I feel like I want to scream and yell with excitement that we're only three short days away - but on the other hand, I just want to still and breathe every ounce of each day in. It's a strong mix between the two - and an amazing feeling nonetheless.

I still haven't had that "ah!" moment that it's hit - even though it appears to have hit my girls. For instance, this morning Amanda wrote, "Okay...it just hit me now, September 2nd at 7:09am...you're getting MARRIED in 3 days! Holy cow!!" Or the fact that Dana keeps talking about "giving away her best friend". I told myself I have to stop checking her Facebook status' - I'm already tearing up!

I can say this...I'm ready. If you told me, right now, to put on my dress and walk down the aisle - I'm in. I'm ready to marry my very best friend. :)

2 days, 7 hours, 11 minutes and 23 seconds

Light or Dark...

2009-08-29T19:48:00.002-04:00

I'm sure you're sitting there tell yourself, "Emily, it's still way too early..." - trust me, I've tried talking myself out of it for days now. But, I can't help myself. With today being a beautiful afternoon - it was hard not to think about the weather next weekend! So, tonight - while at dinner - I snuck a peak at the Weather Channel. Check out this beauty:

Yes, that would be a forecast map for Saturday, September 5th - as of 5:25 pm this evening. Do you see what I see?! :) Consider this your geography lesson of the evening...

Question: You are standing on the dot that reads "Indianapolis". What shade of green are you - light or dark?

Any guesses?! Need a lifeline??

Answer: DARK. And, for the first time - this is a good thing! :) Just the other day, when I mentioned the weather forecast not being too exciting for our Big day, the entire state of Indiana was covered in light green. It still blows me away that in a matter of just three days - the forecast for Friday can go from a 60% chance of rain, to 10%. Crazy.

Continue to pray - but leave your rain dance for after the 5th.

6 days, 4 hours, 14 minutes and 40 seconds

The Last Stretch

2009-08-29T12:39:00.006-04:00

This is it...the last stretch. This time next Saturday, I'll be preparing for the day I've been waiting for. It gives me goosebumps, even now. I can't wait to walk down the aisle with my Daddy, heading straight for Eric. :) It's an absolutely amazing feeling!

I thought, for a moment, I was going to have that "break down" feeling - but really, it's just excitement. The excitement to share everything with those whom we love the most. It seems like yesterday when we started planning - and the day before that, when Eric and I went on our first date. The memories Eric and I share can only get better.

I remember just a few years ago, we celebrated Mamaw & Papaw's 50th wedding anniversary. The look they had for each other that day, throughout their ups and downs, that's the look I'm waiting for. I feel so blessed to have found the one who makes me a better person. I'm ready to start our journey.

But, before that journey can begin - we've got just a couple items to finish up. Last night I finished the dinner room design and seating arrangements. Now I just need to find the table number holders and we're set. Tonight I have plans to print the name cards, table numbers and programs . I also completed the Timeline & Details sheet - with all of the extra add-ins.

Today, Mom, Dad and I are headed out for some last minute items for the arch. We'll then swing by our place to pick up anything wedding related. I've grown my own stash of items over the last few weeks and it's finally time to lay it out and pack it up for setup on Friday. I'm very excited to see Laurel Hall finally put together - with the Emily & Eric touch...that will probably the moment when it feels real. Until then...it's just one really cool party! :)

6 days, 11 hours, 3 minutes and 16 seconds

Planning for Perfection

2009-08-27T21:22:00.005-04:00

I wanted to post this separately from the last one - only because it's not as happy as before. As many of you know - I've not only counted down the days until our wedding, but I've also counted down the days until the Weather Channel had a forecast for September 5th. And, again, as most of you know - we're crossing our fingers for an outside ceremony.

Several things have to plan out to make this work. First of all, it can't rain. Second of all, it can't pour, storm or even drizzle. I think you get my point. Sure, we have a lovely back-up in case my worst nightmare were to come true - but when you've been planning for something to happen for over a year, you want it to stay that way. I've always pictured us having a fall wedding, ceremony outdoors - but I'm just not ready to let that dream go away.

And, it doesn't look like Mother Nature is in for it with me. Right now, Friday the 4th looks horrible. With a 60% chance of rain, we should just plan on getting wet. Now, that doesn't mean the 5th is just as bad - but it's not pretty. Obviously, we won't be able to have the ceremony on any sort of soggy ground. Nothing we have planned would pan out in soggy grass. We do have the option - that if the ground is too wet, but the weather is nice - to have our ceremony on the back deck (which has an equally beautiful look and backdrop). Again, when you really want something to be - it's hard to get the image out of your mind.

Therefore, as of this evening - the outlook for Saturday, September 5th calls for:

- High: 79 degrees
- Low: 60 degrees
- Day: Scattered Storms
- Night: Partly Cloudy
- Precipitation (Day): 30%
- Precipitation (Night): 20%

I can't really explain how I feel at this point. Honestly, I'm hoping their meteorologists are just flat-out wrong. Maybe not on the temperatures, but is a 30% chance of storms necessary?! Right now, to keep myself from breaking down, I'm just going to play the wait-and-see game, and continue to pray.

You're probably laughing at me - saying it's too far out to even decide what the weather will be like...and the fact that we do have a backup...but, I just want it to be perfect. I want our day to be perfect - from beginning to end. I have no fear, whatever comes our way, we'll make it our day. Come rain or come shine. It's just hard to give in when you're planning for perfection.

8 days, 2 hours, 16 minutes and 25 seconds

A mix of information...

2009-08-27T21:06:00.003-04:00

Several items have happened over the last few days. First, on Wednesday - Eric and I took a trip down to the courthouse to register for our marriage license! I'm pretty sure it took us longer to drive there and back, than it did to grab the ever-important piece of paper. I can say, some of the questions asked were pretty funny...for instance, I had to answer whether Eric was related to me "any closer than second cousin" - um, no. We thought for sure there would be some sort of wait, but were pleased when we found out there wasn't. Of course, Eric did set off the metal detector - and the look the cops gave him wasn't a pretty one. End the end, all is now ready for Judge Barton to make it official! :)

Secondly, (and what some may call the most important...) the beer has been purchased! I couldn't tell you how many times Mom, Eric and I walked in and out of Meijer carrying three cases of beer - but it was time well spent. My biggest - fear is running out of beer. OK, maybe I have worse fears - like Eric not showing up! However, I could not live another day of my life around my family if I were to have the party that ended too soon. Every Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, any family function period - we'd hear about it. Drilling this into Mom's head wasn't so easy. I think, with the number we have, we'll be just fine. My luck - we'll end up with half the cases left!

And finally, Eric and I beautified ourselves today! I knew as were approaching our wedding date, I wanted to have my teeth cleaned and potentially whitened. The more I researched options, prices, convenience - I realized whitening wasn't totally out of the question. And, now Eric and I have bea-utiful teeth! It wasn't the most comfortable experience, but really - with a tray of gook in your mouth, a giant UV light shining in and with one of us staring at the other - what would be?! We immediately noticed a difference and are happy with our results - just not so sure we'd recommend the same place. Actually, I know for sure - I wouldn't.

We've scheduled our meeting for next week with all of our vendors, and our week is packed! With Eric starting classes next week as well - it's sure to even busier!

8 days, 2 hours, 42 minutes and 3 seconds

Whisked Away

2009-08-24T20:40:00.020-04:00

Yesterday, (after scrubbing baseboards like Cinderella!!) Dana and Amanda whisked me away for my very low-key Bachelorette Party. Keep in mind, we're not really the party type of girls - and bars really aren't my thing. Therefore, I made it pretty difficult to have any sort of stereotypical Bachelorette Party.

A few weeks back I was told to keep Sunday, August 23rd open - but, like always, wasn't allowed to know any details. In typical "Emily" fashion, I begged and pleaded for details - tried prying them out from everyone, but got nowhere. And, even more impressive - Mom knew about this trip as well and kept her mouth shut! Good job, Momma! :)

I was told to arrive at Neil and Amanda's at 2:30pm, no questions allowed - and I didn't even find that out until Saturday night! I did request details for attire - you know, a bride's got to look her best! Therefore, Sunday rolled around - I put on a nice "blouse" and headed out the door. My only fear included three little words: Indiana State Fair. For those who haven't figured it out - I don't do fairs, camping, fairs, dirt, fairs...however, when Neil squeaked and said, "I've never been there," I knew I was in luck.

We, of course, had to take make a pit stop at Speck's for dog food. Who doesn't wear heals into a pet store?! After that, the three of us headed towards SR 37. Because my sense of direction has improved over the years (unless you speak with Randy...) I figured we were heading towards Bloomington. I had it set in my mind that we were not going to be stopping in Mooresville or Martinsville - they know me too well. It took us about half way there, when I noticed an Oliver Winery billboard. At that point, I figured it out.

Oliver Winery was the absolute perfect place! First, Oliver Wines are my favorite! Second of all, the wine which will be served at our wedding reception will be various Oliver Wines. And, third - just Saturday night I was telling Amanda how I'd love to take a trip down and taste the wines.

To our surprise, it was packed. That whole law in Indiana, preventing you from purchasing alcohol on Sundays, kind of makes a winery (which there was an Amendment written in the law by Professor Oliver for wineries to be open on Sundays - there's a little fact for ya!) a poppin' place. However, we walked right in, took a look around and then scoped out our bar spot.

Just for the record, between the three of us - we're all over 21 and I'm the oldest. Once we took our spot at the bar for tasting, a not-so-friendly woman came up and asked to see our ID. Almost like synchronizing swimming, we each whipped out our wallets and gave her proof. I kid you not, the lady looked at me, then looked at my ID, then looked at me again, and back down at my ID. She then said, "This just doesn't look like you." Are you kidding me?! Sure, my hair is half up and a bit brighter now, but really - you think it looks like someone else?! Apparently she must not have been in the mood to argue, because she quickly gave in. I swear - it's me!

Either way, we got the entire spiel of where to start on the list, what means what, yadda, yadda, yadda. We each were allowed 6-8 wines to taste. I'm not a big dry wine fan, therefore my selection was closer to the bottom of the page. About half way through our selections, a young gentleman came up to us and said he'd be our server for the rest of the afternoon. Two words - Thank Heavens. Of course, after we introduced ourselves - Amanda may have slipped in that this was my Bachelorette Party - he introduced himself as Brian W. Not just "Brian" - Brian with a "W." Kind of like James...James Bond.

At the very end, we each opted to taste a desert wine - something to send the afternoon off with a bang. Talk about yuck - it was horrible, not our favorite whatsoever. Of course, there were two wines on the desert list we were only allowed to taste if we paid for it. However, that Brian W. gave me a taste "on the house", which I shared with my girls. Now, it was rather tasty!

We then each decided to purchase a glass of wine to take with us on the winery tour. Then again, Brain W. was our host for the afternoon - and gave us our glasses "on the house" one more time...what was the term he used: "throwing your life away". Buddy, if I was concerned about that - I would have stopped six years ago! Either way - a big thanks to our new friend Brian...Brian W., for helping to bring some laughs to our afternoon!

We took a small tour of the winery where they house and barrel their wines. We were able to learn a few extra facts about Professor Oliver and the name, as well as how the wines are made. Afterwards we toured the grounds - which are stunning.

The last below was a picture taken using the time on my camera...no, the place didn't suddenly clear house - but apparently we were too scared to ask for help!

Afterwards, the girls and I put together a case of our favorites - which including adding a few bottles to the reception stash! Yummy Sangria! :) (For a fun fact - it just hit stores on Thursday!) We then headed to The Cheesecake Factory, where we met Mom and Kathy for dinner. We sat outside, and enjoyed every minute of the strange, fall weathered evening!

Dana & Amanda, I never say it enough - thank you! You out-did yourselves...yet again. :) Love you!

11 days, 2 hours, 34 minutes and 26 seconds

UNDER Two Weeks...

2009-08-23T10:22:00.007-04:00

As of yesterday - we're officially UNDER two weeks before the wedding! Therefore, last night it hit me...our checklist needs some major adjustments!

1-2 Weeks To Go!

- Arrange parking for the reception.
* We aren't going to have a problem with this. We were able to map out the best way for the caterer to come and go with the food - which was really my only concern.

- Finish and print ceremony programs.
* I plan on completing this sometime this week. I'm not in a huge hurry - knowing I've already designed the program and only have to press print.

- Get marriage license.
* Originally we were going to get this Monday afternoon - but now it has been pushed to Tuesday. Coming off a busy weekend, a night to catch up on laundry and clean (yes, Dad - I'm cleaning our room.) is needed!

- Do paperwork for official documents if you are changing your name.
* I won't officially become a Davis, until after our honeymoon. It just isn't possible for me to change my social security card, driver's license and passport in a matter of four days.

- Work out wedding day timing and details and draw up a schedule.
* Done. After the salon fix, it needed to be tweaked - and will be sent to those necessary this week.

- Brides: Pick up the veil and/or headpiece.
* Check! Mom finished up the pieces to my veil last week...

- Give final head count to the caterer. Confirm set-up instructions and menu items.
* Complete! :) I have just a few items to follow up with Jamie about - but after that we're good to go until Friday the 4th. CRG has worked with Laurel Hall to have our non-food deliveries sent on Thursday the 3rd - giving us the opportunity to begin setting up right away on Friday.

- Call location manager and make sure your vendors all have access to the site when they need it.
* This is more our responsibility versus our "location manager". Because we have chosen to use a caterer not listed on Laurel Hall's preferred list - I have been the bounce-back communication between the two. I have on my list to send out the Directions Card to our vendors, giving them the gate access.

- Confirm headcount, delivery time, and location with the cakemaker.
* This is still a MUCH needed Must Do...as in priority #1. We have just a few last-minute questions, knowing our final headcount number.

- Brides: Practice walking in your wedding shoes.
* Check and mark. I'm currently wearing them as we speak. I fear having blisters on our wedding day...f-e-a-r.

- Call guests who haven't RSVP'd for the wedding and rehearsal dinner. It's okay to do this, you need a final headcount!
* I'm starting to sound like a lovely, broken record - BUT...done! Of the 50-some number of invitations we sent out, only two needed to be contacted.

- If you're having a receiving line, determine the order you want everyone to stand it.
* Eric and I really haven't talked about it. And, really - I don't think we're going to talk about it. After the ceremony - we'll definitely have a receiving line - but I don't think it's necessary to mark standing spots.

- Determine any wedding day assignments for members of the wedding party, and make lists/info sheets as needed.
* Consider this their "info sheet" - Dan: Get Eric to Laurel Hall on time and dressed. Amanda/Dana: If anything goes "wrong", don't tell me.

- Start putting together the seating plan, if you're having a seated reception meal.
* Mom is completely against this - but it's probably the only thing she's going to lose throughout the entire wedding. I've drafted up a seating plan that fits perfect. I love the number of our guests lists - which is giving us a fun way to place the tables!

- Finalize seating chart. Buy material for and make place cards.
* Apparently, I'm a little behind...but, to go along with the note above - we have place cards that match our wedding invitations. I will begin to print those after Eric and I look through the seating plan together.

- Grooms: Pick up your tux and try it on.
* This would be the best time to fill you in...today I received a phone call from Men's Warehouse, going over the final details for the guys and their attire. Each tux will be available for pick-up on Thursday the 3rd.

- Shop and pack for honeymoon.
* I could make an excuse to shop for any reason, on any day! However, when it comes to packing - this isn't necessary this early. Having the opportunity to pass up the stress of planning and packing for our honeymoon the day after - was the #1 reason we chose to wait until the following weekend.

- Touch base with your officiant and give him/her rehearsal details and wedding day schedule.
* Completed - like two weeks ago! :) I have listed Judge Barton on the mailing list of the Wedding Weekend Timeline & Details - that way he's aware of what time we'll be arriving to Laurel Hall.

- Confirm delivery locations, times and final arrangement count with your florist.
* This one is pretty easy...Mom, are you open Friday the 4th?! :)

- Prepare your toasts or thanks to friends and family.
* We'll wing this one...OK, maybe not - but if I even start to write something, I'll bubble up into an emotional mess.

- Fax transportation providers a schedule and addresses for pickups on the wedding day.
* David, from Hoosier Indianapolis Limousine, has been to Laurel Hall multiple times. He, too, is listed down to receive a copy of the Directions Card. As for the hotel shuttle, I need to fax the confirmation sheet - which will include the gate code.

- Confirm all final payment amounts with your vendors.
* Dad...get out the pocketbook! :) Just kidding...well, no, not really - but you get what I mean.

- Grooms: Get your final haircut.
* Eric starts classes at Franklin College (yay!!) on September 1st. However, Wednesday is considered his "open day" - as in, he's not in class. I'm hoping he uses that day to get his haircut. But, that's his option.

- Distribute wedding-day directions, schedule and contact list to all parents, attendants and vendors.
* I feel like I've been answering this question all day...consider it done.

- Designate who will meet, greet and handle each vendor on the wedding day.
* My plan is to stay as calm as possible - therefore, I've designated my mother to handle this. I'll be around, therefore if anything is placed where it shouldn't be - I'll politely just move it myself. But, overall - there's not much I'm too worried about.

- Brides: Get a manicure and pedicure and confirm big-day beauty appointments.
* My girls and I are scheduled to have our fingers and toes done Thursday. Friday would have been ideal - but with setup, the rehearsal and dinner all in one day - Thursday just sounds much better!

- Designate someone to collect the wedding gifts (and any cash) brought to the party.
* Mom...Dad...anyone?! (Wow - their names are popping up left and right?!)

- Confirm date, location, time and playlist with band/DJ and/or ceremony or cocktail hour musicians.
* I'm breaking this into two...I've confirmed the rehearsal time and show-up time for the ceremony musicians. Now, we just have to find a time to sit down with DJ Ryan and plan our Reception Timeline. I don't have a clue where to begin...but, I've heard - DJ Ryan is a pro.

- Put final payments and cash tips in marked envelopes and give to a designated family or friend to distribute on the wedding day.
* Friend?! No, I don't think Dad would go for that...however, I'm not sure he's too safe with Mom handling money either!! :)

12 days, 11 hours, 23 minutes and 54 seconds

Running out of time!!

2009-08-20T21:11:00.005-04:00

Yesterday morning Mom, Dana and I took a trip to Laurel Hall to meet with Jamie from CRG. Our wedding is the first event for CRG at Laurel Hall (however, they have booked another wedding in November) - so having the opportunity to walk Jamie through the location was incredibly beneficial.

It should be mentioned that I maybe, kind of, sort of, well - yes...I overslept. So, at 8:20am (when we planned to meet at Laurel Hall at 9:00am!) I was rushing and running around trying to make it on time. I, of course, was late - which only set everyone's mood off on the wrong foot. Mom wasn't too happy with me - but I wasn't too happy with myself! I kept apologizing to Jamie, saying I wasn't like this normally - especially when it came to our wedding!

We walked through the final numbers, accounting for any "extras" that came up. We then took Jamie on a tour of the location - pointing out important parts of the mansion - specifically the kitchen, our chosen bar location, and the buffet room. (Yes, our buffet gets its own room. We're that cool.)

Every time I walk in the front doors, I get goosebumps about our Big Day. Laurel Hall is the place I dreamt about for years - breathtaking. It's crazy to think that in a little (a very little) over two weeks, we'll be married! Anytime I run into to someone I know, the first question they ask is, "So, are you ready?!" It hasn't hit met yet - that I'll be a wife - but if everything was put together and we were to get married tomorrow - I'm ready.

It's crazy to see car commercials, talking about the great deals they have that are only good until Labor Day weekend - or coupons that expire September 26th. Or the fact that my work calendar now shows I have lots of vacation days quickly approaching. It's crazy to hear radio commercials about concert tickets for events on September 5th. Amanda even pointed out, that by the time a certain sale ended - I'll be a "married, old hag!" (Yes, she used all three words.) And, even tonight when I called Kelly to check up on her - she answered it with "Hello Very Soon Bride-to-Be!" :)

But...with all of our excitement comes lots and lots of little work left to do. Now, if only I could figure out what my girls have planned on Sunday...

15 days, 2 hours, 30 minutes and 53 seconds

Picking Up the Pace

2009-08-17T21:01:00.005-04:00

It's been a while - and, really - I don't have that good of an excuse. We haven't tackled much at all - but are slowly picking up the pace. With less than 20 days, we don't really have a choice! :)

First things first - we're almost done with anything "floral". Which means - Mom has finished up the flowers for the Grandmothers, Moms and cake-topper. We have a few items to finish up on the bridal bouquets - but that's almost a last-minute effort. The arch is still in progress. By that, I mean, we've got the idea - just haven't put it together.

For those who are familiar - it's not really an arch at all. In fact, it doesn't arch. Back when Eric and I first decided we were going to use the grassy area at Laurel Hall for our ceremony (which really Eric had nothing to do with...and, he told me I could say that!), I knew I wanted something to set us apart from the line of trees. I instantly remembered a picture I found and decided it would be perfect. Therefore, last summer Mom and I bought a similar arch - which, yes, is white. (I've secretly hinted to Mom and Dad that I'd like to spray paint it ivory, but my hints aren't working...) Mom decided she could create floral arrangements on top - in all of our fall colors. This is the picture of our inspiration:

Sticking with Laurel Hall - she's paid for! Completely. No turning back now! Wednesday morning I'm headed to meet Jamie from Cunningham Restaurant Group (as a reminder, that's our caterer!) for a walk-through on table, bar, ceremony, etc. setup. Jamie has been wonderful since the day we booked CRG! Each month since the booking, she's sent me an email - checking up to make sure there was or wasn't anything she could do. Finally, I was able to respond with lots of questions! When I mentioned a visit to Laurel Hall - Jamie jumped on the opportunity.

To go along with CRG, we decided to wait another week for the final two invitation responses. The weekend came and went - and still no response. Eric's mom is contacting both tonight and hopefully we'll know the final-final number within the next few days. If everyone ends up joining us for The Big Day - we'll hit the huge number of 115 guests! The more I see that number the more it's perfect. We didn't want a huge wedding guest list - probably because our families are big enough for any party! :)

And, speaking of the party - we're finally finished with the Reception Playlist! Just a couple days past our personal deadline - and a few more past DJ Ryan's. We're hoping to meet with DJ Ryan (and his wife!) sometime next week. I told Eric, I think our playlist is so cool that I'm going to make him a CD...he didn't really care so much for my idea...

Regarding attire - yes, the boys are still in brown. Like it or not, Dad. Not sure if I've shared - but as part of my "Something Old" - I've decided to wear my Mom's veil. It has a very similar detail as my dress. Of course, when she wore it - 25 years ago! - it was white. Over the years, it's faded and now matches my dress very well. For the short ceremony - it's perfect!

It's crazy to think how close we are! I swear, I blinked - and all of a sudden we're just weeks away! This is such a good feeling! :)

18 days, 2 hours, 31 minutes and 58 seconds

Problem?! What problem?!

2009-08-11T13:15:00.003-04:00

For those who keep up with my Blog regularly - you're probably wondering why I had yet to talk about my hair trial. Well, I needed a little more time before I spilled the beans.

Saturday morning - Amanda, Dana and myself all headed for breakfast and then to the salon. Because we ate too fast, we swung over to the alterations shop and picked up Dana's dress. She looks amazing in it! (Have I told you how much I love my bridesmaid dresses?! I would own one myself if I didn't have an equally amazing dress...)

...either way, we then shot straight for Robert's Salon. Waited no time before the stylist came up front to grab us. I gave her my pictures, talked about what I wanted (and what I didn't) - and 23 minutes later she was done. Done, completely - in a blink of an eye my hair went from "bluh" to "WOW!". It looked beautiful and effortless - exactly what I wanted.

That was until I realized how much it was going to cost on the actual Big Day. And, to be completely honest - a hairstyle for the Queen of England isn't worth $85. Especially just a head full of curls and four bobbypins. I rubbed it off for a while, thinking to myself why on earth they'd charge $85 for hair only - and came up with nothing. After an unsuccessful chat with Nicole (who colors my hair - and whom I still love 100%!), I realized I needed to look elsewhere and fast for a new salon.

There are several salons here on the southside that have the same reputation as Robert's - therefore, I counted them out. I got recommendations from absolutely everyone - and called them all. I described in as much detail as possible how the chosen hairstyles looked, asked about group rates, almost any question I could think of. Each time, I got mixed answers...until finally the answer I was looking for.

Thanks to Transformations Salon & Spa, we have scheduled hair and makeup appointments set for the Big Day! And, even better - besides saving a load of money! - it won't put a dent in our pre- and post-hair/makeup plans.

I'm not sure what's more amazing - how I just spoke with Stephanie from Laurel Hall - describing how nothing had "gone wrong" and that I wasn't upset about anything, or the fact at how fast I found a solution! At this point, I feel like I can tackle anything! :)

24 days, 10 hours, 16 minutes and 4 seconds

ONE Month away from "IT" :)

2009-08-05T09:28:00.003-04:00

Holy. Cow. We're now ONE month away from "it", from The Big Day - and for some reason, it still doesn't feel real, but not being able to sleep last night because of the butterflies - I guess that makes it somewhat real. :)

I woke up, thinking this was going to be the last "Checklist" post - then I realized, if I updated you on everything we have left to do - we'd be here all day. For the last month of our wedding planning, we've got over 50 items that need cute, little checkmarks - therefore, to keep myself half-way sane, I'm breaking it into WEEKS. Can you believe I'm saying "WEEKS"?!

3-4 Weeks To Do:

1. Arrange parking for the reception. - Our invitation responses are due today, but we've given ourselves until the weekend. We're still looking for a handful of responses, and after that we'll determine if we need parking arrangements. Right now - I think we're good, especially knowing there are several groups that are driving together.

2. Order liquor, wine and/or champagne if they're not included in the catering contract. - Last week Mom and I picked and purchased the wine. We've chosen a red wine, white wine and (my favorite!) Black Cherry. Dad is trying to convince Mom that we might need one more case, but we're waiting to count the number of guests (over 21, of course). We have yet to purchase the beer - for one reason, and one reason only...the expiration date. We've finally hit the September dates, but we're hoping to find Octobers before we make the final purchase.

3. Grooms: Attend your bachelor party (and be sure to thank the best man afterwards). - I'll let Eric answer this one. If something is planned, they sure aren't telling me about it - and, really, I'm okay with that.

4. Finish and print ceremony programs. - I finally feel comfortable about printing these. However, with Eric starting classes (at Franklin College! Yay!) very soon, I shouldn't use all of our printer ink, or I'll be hearing about it.

5. Confirm wedding-night and honeymoon reservations. - Confirmed and ready to go! We haven't decided exactly how we'll get from the Omni back to Mom and Dad's house the day after, but we'll figure something out. As for the honeymoon, we're booked and ready to go! :)

6. Get marriage license. - Three little words that mean so much! I guess after we have this, it should feel real, right?!

7. Work on a list of "must-play" songs for the DJ. - As I mentioned last night, we put together a pretty good list, but still have room for more. As for the "must-play" songs, and I'm assuming we're talking about the First Dance, Father/Daughter, Mother/Son...done!

8. Wrap all gifts for the wedding party and write each attendant a nice note. - I'm not sure we have anything nice to say! Just kidding...but when it comes to the gifts, they're purchased. We're trying to think of creative wrapping for the groomsmen gifts, but it won't take us long.

9. Brides: Shop for all additional accessories like stockings, earrings, evening bag, etc. - Stockings?! I don't think so. My dress has enough detail that I'm pushing away from over-the-top accessories. Besides, the best accessory is my groom! I know, cheesy - right?! :) I've got my shoes and jewelry covered - and when it comes to an evening bag, not sure I'll need one - being at Laurel Hall for the entire night.

10. Have a follow-up meeting or phone call with the officiant to go over ceremony timing and details. - I've sent Judge Barton the ceremony structure for him to practice. But as far as talking about ceremony timing and details, we'll walk through it all at the rehearsal.

11. Discuss music with ceremony musicians and agree on final choices. - Our final choices have been determined, now I just need to follow-up with the flute musicians to confirm the rehearsal and ceremony times.

12. Pick up wedding rings and check the inscriptions before you leave the store. - Done.

13. Sit for your bridal portrait, if you decide to get one. - No thanks, we'll let Nicole do her thing on the actual wedding day.

14. Do paperwork for official documents if you are changing your name. - I don't even know where to begin with this! I do know that I'm waiting until we get back from our honeymoon to officially change it all. There really isn't a way to get my passport and driver's license changed in the few short days we have, to be ready to cruise. I've created a list of everything I use "Carrico" on, and it keeps growing.

15. Work out wedding day timing and details (who will get the bride there, where the wedding party will dress, etc.) and draw up a schedule. - I'm way ahead of you, Knot! I've drafted (on paper) a timeline and just need to make the final decisions. Scheduling around college football games is starting to get out of control.

16. Brides: Get final pre-wedding haircut, if necessary. - Done, that was two weeks ago. I've scheduled for a color the week of the wedding, but I'm considering this done.

17. Brides: Make sure you have your garter and "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue". - I've got my garter, something old (my mom's veil - not her bonnet, just her veil), something new (my dress, shoes, etc.), something borrowed (Mamaw's pearls) and something blue (UK bobby-pins, which will be hidden in my hair). Done! :)

18. Call or email the wedding party to relay critical info related to rehearsal and wedding (dates, times, directions, duties). - Anything and everything will be included on the "Wedding Weekend Timeline and Details" (yes, I've given it a name!). I will then email it to our entire wedding party, as well as have extra copies on hand the entire weekend. Detailed enough?

19. Brides: Pick up your gown. - It's been picked up for months. I'm waiting until almost the day before to have it steamed for the final touches. My dress is perfect!

20. Get a head start on those thank-you notes (it will feel great to get a batch out before the wedding). - Feel great or not, we aren't there yet. In fact, we haven't even purchased the thank-you cards!

21. Finalize any special preferences, readings, or other ceremony details (in writing) with your officiant. - Please refer to #10.

And, finally...

22. Prepare a must-have shot list for your photographer and videographer. - I've created a small list of group shots for Nicole to have, but I trust she'll know what to do. Our videographer - well, Nick is experienced enough, he'll know what to do! :)

I think we've got enough to keep ourselves busy for the next several days...what do you think?!

30 days, 13 hours, 6 minutes and 57 seconds

Just Dance!

2009-08-04T23:53:00.006-04:00

Tonight, Eric and I "more than half way" accomplished what we need to...the play/do-not playlist! So far, we've got just over four hours worth of songs, but seeing as how we have an event that's supposed to last six (well, the reception part is more like five...) - we've still got some work to do.

Let it be known that Eric originally put the song list together, the start of it - and, for the most part, did a great job. The key phrase being, "for the most part". There were a few songs I vetoed. For instance, anything that had to do with losing love or death, divorce or anything "angry". There weren't alot - however, I kindly reminded him that this was a playlist for our wedding - not a playlist of songs he just likes.

We'll work on it some more tomorrow - but I have to say, we've done a preeety good job! If it were my choice...I'd just play Jessica...over and over and over. :)

Saturday morning I have my trial-run for my hair! My wedding hair! Yes, Dana and Amanda will be joining (and, Kel - I'll send pictures immediately!). While taking Dad to the airport this afternoon (in the Indiana Monsoon we had today, mind you) I mentioned to him that my Saturday morning was booked. He essentially flipped out - couldn't even begin to understand why a "trial" was needed...then proceeded to ask me if Eric was getting one, too. No, Dad, Eric isn't - but you...maybe! :)

Tomorrow - when we wake up, we'll be ONE MONTH away from getting hitched! The butterflies are building inside as every minute gets closer and closer! We have so much to do - and this is probably the only time I'm excited to say, "With SO little time!" :)

31 days, 0 hours, 5 minutes and 24 seconds

One Party, Two Must-Do's and A Good Time

2009-08-03T19:32:00.015-04:00

Friday night Mom and I drove down to Louisville to spend some quality time with Mamaw and Papaw. Of course, this wasn't the only reason we took the trip - on Saturday, my aunts (Maria and Anita) threw me a bridal shower for family that lives in town. It was so nice to see everyone again - and by far put me in the excitement mood for our wedding!

When guests first walked in they were asked to take an engagement ring. Then, throughout the entire shower if you said the words "Emily" or "Eric", and someone heard you, you lost your ring to that person. Erin was on fire - grabbing them left and right. I, of course, lost mine almost immediately. I never realized how often I used my own name and Eric's in the same sentence! Mom tried to cheat - which really, this shouldn't surprise anyone.

Figures Maria and Anita would be incredibly creative - however, I have a feeling it came with a few bumps. For instance, Friday night Maria called to ask me for Eric's phone number. I knew right away what they had planned - and I shared my "disgust" in the idea. I mean, really, I already failed the "guess-what-Eric-answered" game once...do I really have to relive it again?! I, of course, drilled Eric about what type of questions they may have answered - and he played dumb the entire night. Come to find out, they never even called! Sorry, Babe! :)

I'm always a fan for games. I feel like they pass the time well, and get people to laugh and interact. The "purse game" did just that. My cousins, Pamela and Abbie, read aloud objects you might have in your purse. If you had them, you were then given a card. At the end, the person with the most cards won. It came down between Motsy and Lynnie - sudden death. Motsy won - with a movie ticket! :) If I can share any advice - don't clean out your purse before going to a party!

We then played an even more exciting version of the "wedding dress" game. The entire group was separated into three teams. Each team was given tape, a pair of scissors and a shower curtain. I was then given 60 seconds to describe my wedding dress in full detail - top to bottom. The teams were allowed to take as many supplies from the kitchen table as possible, but were only given 10 minutes to complete the gown. They used doilies, confetti and tulle to create the masterpiece. In the end Carolyn modeled a pretty good version - of what dress, I'm not so sure.

The ladies...hard at work!

I love Kelly's face in this one! Who doesn't love doilies?!

In order - Carolyn, Me, Kelly & Erin!

We then opened gifts - which I love to do, but I'm sure wasn't the most exciting part for the rest of the party. I could not be more thankful for all of our gifts - and, trust me, each will be used often.

Now, please keep in mind that both of my grandmothers were in attendance. Both of these women are idols to me as a woman - also the two women I want to show nothing but "good". Therefore, when I saw the lovely gift box Ann and Carolyn creatively wrapped, my initial thought was, "No way!" - we have bought Carolyn multiple Pink products from Victoria's Secret almost every Christmas. I thought to myself, "Ah, they just used an empty box." That is, until I opened it. Until I reached my hand in, felt the tissue paper, and smashed the box closed. I knew immediately they had bought me lingerie! I can only imagine how red my face got when I screamed, "My Mamaw is in the room!" The entire room pushed me to share, and really, it's an extremely cute outfit. Definitely a moment I'll never forget.

On top of my bow-bouquet...I now have a beautiful hairpiece to go right along with it...

Maria & Anita, Thank you - from the bottom of my heart for everything you did to make Saturday such a special day! I love you both very much!

On a completely different note - this Wednesday Eric and I will officially hit the ONE MONTH to go mark. There are a few "outstanding" items that are must-do's before Wednesday even approaches. For instance, the "Reserved" signs had to get finished. Consider it done! I still need to attach the ribbon (which will tie around the ceremony chairs), but here's a good look on how they turned out:

Next up - the DJ play/do-not-play list. We've been all-talk about our music, but haven't actually put it together...something we have to get done, immediately.

Amanda sent me a text message this afternoon that read, "You'll never guess what happened today?!" With getting her school selection, a week away from closing on the new house, the puppies celebrating their birthday this week - I was hoping it was something good. It was something GREAT! She wrote:

"I was getting a facial and she went to schedule my next one. I usually go 4 weeks out, and we had to move it to 3 weeks out, because I have a prior engagement 4 weeks from this Saturday!!"

Yeah, I think now is a good time to freak out...

32 days, 3 hours, 35 minutes and 22 seconds

Do you see, what I see?!

2009-08-02T23:18:00.006-04:00

I've got SO much to talk about - but, really - it's almost midnight and with tomorrow being a Monday, being up this late isn't a good thing...

...however, I snuck a peak at TheKnot.com - please note what I see!!

Yes, that reads, "3-4 WEEKS". Are you kidding me?! :) I can not believe we're THIS close. :)

33 days, 0 hours, 27 minutes and 41 seconds

Absolutely Amazing!!

2009-07-28T15:01:00.003-04:00

OK, so this has nothing to do with our wedding - but...

...over the last week or so, I heard this story about a wedding party in Minnesota that danced down the isle. Sure, sounds interesting - but hearing the story is nothing like watching the video!

WATCH THIS

Courtesy of YouTube.

How AMAZING is that?! Never in a million years would I or could I do this, but I can say our bridal party is just as cool.

38 days, 8 hours, 50 minutes and 22 seconds

You can never have TOO much fun!

2009-07-26T22:37:00.016-04:00

Yesterday my lovely ladies threw me the best bridal shower a bride could ask for! It was amazingly perfect from every angle. Each detail was thoroughly thought out from head to toe. Of course, I was the first to arrive - thinking I was actually running late. However, I was able to get my "ooo's" and "awhhh's" (and a little tear) out before everyone arrived. I couldn't begin to explain what my favorite part was - but probably something I couldn't be "more happy" for! :)

The food was amazing - thank you, Arnolds (and a Barnes!) - but the games were a step above. Granted, that's where the "let's embarrass Emily part" came in - but all in good nature. I specifically enjoyed the fact that they enlisted my mother's help...and, when I say that, I'm joking. They created a tri-fold board with pictures of me from all ages. The party guests then were asked to guess my age. I have to say, Mom went easy on me - she could have chosen much worse. And, please, my child mullet was not my choice - at that age, you don't get to choose! :)

We then played the cotton-ball game. I think the pictures speak for themselves...however, it must be mentioned that Kristin won - and my mother's a cheater.

After that fun, we played the worst game imaginable - and one, I believe, I specifically asked not to play. We each were asked to write down a number, 1-13. Then, I was asked questions about Eric's past, future, favorites, etc. The number you wrote down was the number you thought I'd get right. Now that I think about it, I know I asked not to play this game! It's not that I feel I don't know Eric well enough - heck, I'm weeks away from becoming his wife! - it's just the embarrassment of getting them wrong! But, hey, 8 out of 13 isn't terrible!

My girls started to trick me, by asking me to sit on the couch to prepare for opening gifts. Then out of nowhere a roll of toilet paper came flying towards my face. I completely missed the joke, and after Kelly kindly explained it to me - I realized we were playing the toilet paper wedding dress game! A game which I love...and from Angie's expression - one she does not. And, I've decided I love to play it more than I love to be the judge. Angie, Andrea and Mom were beautiful brides! :)

Does this scream, "I'm the BRIDE!" or what?! :)

Amanda, Dana & Kelly - thank you for everything! You never seize to amaze me. You're more than my friends - you're my family! Love you! :)

40 days, 0 hours, 51 minutes and 48 seconds

Elementary Art Class

2009-07-23T22:13:00.004-04:00

At this point, I can't figure out how I even passed elementary art class.

Yeah, not much for a first sentence, huh?! Well, tonight I set out to accomplish the "Reserved" signs. Something I thought would be quick and easy, pass the time before Big Brother 11. Negative, and let me explain.

I had previously (with a ruler at my parents' house) marked out the lines on the first layer, and on card stock paper the $13.99 paper-cutter I bought from Target was great. Quick and easy - almost too easy. I then realized - I don't have a ruler now! Therefore, I began to fiddle around looking for something. I found several items, until I realized a ruler is most likely the best options seeing as how I'm measuring certain sections and am really pushing for the consistency factor.

So, instead of working on layer #2, I moved on to layer #3. A simple 8.5 x 11 inch piece of scrapbook paper, folded in half, cut down the center. Sounds easy enough. I bought just enough pieces to have exactly the number of signs we'll need (which is probably where I messed up to begin with). I got through the first three in no time. Thinking to myself, "You're doing great!" Then, out of nowhere, the darn cutter turned on me. I ruined three, count them 1-2-3, pieces by the time I was finished. I didn't even bother to dig around for a glue stick.

How I've managed to call myself crafty all of these years, is a shame. And, shame on you for letting me think so! :)

On a separate note, something hit me this afternoon...we're getting extremely close to The Big Day! I not only received one "Reminder of Upcoming Payment", but TWO emails today reminding us we're getting closer and closer.

I also must mention that I could not be more excited for my Bridal Shower this Saturday! Something fishy is going on - and I can feel it. A few weeks ago I was explaining to a friend of mine that I have this gut feeling my girls will do something to embarrass me. She then responded with, "No, they won't! Why are you so sure?!" - My only response: "Because I know them too well." They have worked their tooshies off planning and putting it all together and I just know it will be fantastic...embarrassing moment or not. :)

43 days, 0 hours, 54 minutes and 13 seconds

Running on Little Sleep

2009-07-22T20:39:00.010-04:00

Staying up until 1am this morning (knowing I had several items to accomplish first thing - work related) probably wasn't the best idea, but it came with its positives, a small scare, and a lovely afternoon nap with Hobbes!

First of all, I've completed the Donation Cards - which will now be referred to as the Donation Frames. I thought for several weeks about the best way to display our message (the "in lieu of traditional wedding favors") and kept going back to a small picture frame. Of course, trying to stick with the soft, natural, vintage-ish theme - I didn't want plain frames. And, sticking with the low budget - I didn't want to spend a ton. Therefore, I hopped, skipped and jumped into the Dollar Tree hoping to they'd have something, even remotely close to what I imagined...

...and they did! :) They had several different sizes of exactly what I was looking for. I stuck with the 3.5 x 5 inch, gold frame, which really is a pretty good size unto itself. I then came up with a simple message explaining which Fund we've chosen to donate to and why. I printed the message onto the extra cream resume paper I already had tucked away - cut out the cards and there you have it! They look great! See for yourself...

Now, for the scary part of my afternoon. While I'm checking up on my Franklin restaurant, I venture into the "office" and notice something funny is going on with the computer. Therefore, here I am ridiculously tired because I chose to stay awake late last night...I finally end up calling the corporate Technical Support, which like most Technical Support lines - I'm put on hold. While on hold my cell phone chimes that I've received a new email. For those who know how overly organized I am - I have a specific email account used only for wedding items. Low-and-behold, I've got a new message...from Delta. And, also, for those who know me well - you know I don't do well when asked to hold on a phone. At this point, I'm tired and now a little on the angry side, I've waited for "so long". I open the email from Delta, not even recognizing what the subject line says, and begin to read the first paragraph. The first sentence reads, and I quote:

"Our schedule has changed, and it impacts your upcoming trip."

Great. Now I'm angry because I'm still on hold, annnd my honeymoon trip is ruined. Perfect. (May I add, on top of the lovely attitude I had all afternoon, it also rained - and I left my umbrella at home.) Of course, within just a few minutes Technical Support picked up and solved our problem. Instead of continuing to read why my honeymoon was ruined, I grab a Diet Coke and head to the next restaurant. I walk in the door this afternoon, start telling Eric that Delta sent me this horrible email (like I was the only one affected...) about our trip. As I'm talking, I open the email...our flight from Indianapolis to San Juan has been moved to later in the morning...one hour later. I finally realized it's not a big deal whatsoever, instead of taking off at 7:15am, we now head for paradise at 8:30am. And, instead of arriving to our destination at 1:21pm, we arrive at 2:55pm. Schwoo!

I've now learned, I don't do well on little sleep. Hobbes and I decided a rainy, afternoon nap was in need.

44 days, 2 hours, 26 minutes and 30 seconds

Back in Action

2009-07-20T11:02:00.007-04:00

Sure, I've been MIA the last several days - but our wedding has not. In fact, it's finally hit me that we have so much left to accomplish. However, a few items have been completed over the last few nights...

For instance, I had my final dress fitting on Friday - and it was perfect! Granted, I will try her on again (and maybe again and again) before the wedding, but when it comes to alterations - she looks amazing! The top, middle, bottom, front, back - it's exactly what I wanted from the very beginning! The lady who helped Mom and I on Friday was extremely friendly and happy to tell us all about her vacation and nasty customers. She was a chatter-box from the moment we opened the door to the moment we left. But, nonetheless she did an outstanding job on all of the details! :)

To go along with the wedding-day getup, I've determined my hairstyle! Of course, I always knew I wanted something with loose, big curls. It was just a matter of how it all was put together. I had a brief, two month idea that having it up would work the best - but after trying on my dress - it's back to half-up, half-down. Between my three girls, hairstyles are finally coming along. Kelly will have her hair down, while Dana and Amanda - being my Maids of Honor - will have something similar but up-ish. Again, it's all a work in progress - therefore "ish" has been used frequently.

We've also since ordered the groomsmen gifts. After a couple of long hours thinking over and over what would be perfect for his guys, Eric came to the final decision. It's not a traditional gift by any means, but something each of them will appreciate and use! That way every time they look at it, they'll think of us!

I went ahead and peaked back at our wedding programs. As a reminder, I told myself I would not do this until the One-Month mark, but I cracked. After a few minor tweaks - again - I think it looks wonderful! Very elegant, simple, no white or black...kind of our thing.

Eric has worked extremely hard the last few days putting together the ultimate reception playlist for DJ Ryan. I was told that I need to update my portion "as soon as possible", which will make the list complete. In between visiting several restaurants per day, running errands and planning the rest of the wedding - I'll stop and take care of it.

To continue along the same line - we've scheduled our setup times with Laurel Hall. The Friday before we'll start our morning early (we're talking 9am!) for setup between our caterer, rentals and Mom's flowers. While all of this will be going on, The Men are scheduled to play golf. Apparently that's "the thing" to do - while the women work, the men play! :) We'll all have time to relax and settle down before the rehearsal and dinner at 5:30.

And, finally - in just a few short days, after several weeks of planning by my lovely Maids, the time has come to celebrate my bridal shower here in Greenwood! I absolutely cannot wait! I've hit that point where I'm nervous with what these two have planned, excited to see it all, and crazed that everything getting so close! I have zero doubt that my girls have planned a true Emily Event! :)

46 days, 12 hours, 40 minutes and 2 seconds

P.S. I'd also like to congratulate Nick and Andrea on their wedding this past weekend! It was beautiful! And, I should apologize for Ryan's obnoxious dancing...

Nick & Andrea, best wishes on your future together and enjoy your honeymoon! :)

I thought wrong...

2009-07-13T14:12:00.004-04:00

So, it feels like nothing has happened over the last week! Then, as I look back at my checklist - deciding what is next - I've come to realize...a lot has happened! Going back to last week, we have accomplished:

#1 - As of this afternoon, I've contacted those who were/could be interested in a hotel room for the wedding night (or more!). I sent a friendly reminder, hoping to push them along! Now...if only we could push them to send their invitation responses! Hint, hint, wink, wink... :)

#6 - I researched what needs to be done for a marriage license in the state of Indiana. Basically, we just show up. The license is "good" for 60 days - therefore, technically we could hop in the car tomorrow and grab it - seeing as how we're only 53 short days away! It does explain that if you "appear" to be under the age of 18, a birth certificate is required. I'm pretty sure we've got this one covered.

#8 - The idea (for the groomsmen gift) has been determined, just a matter of getting to the store to purchase the items. Put us down for a half check...

#9 - I've put Dad in charge of finding a nice pen for the Guest Book. I know he's got one at his office he could spare for this little event!

#12 - This Friday, I will have (what I hope to be) my final dress fitting! I can't wait to see the final product!

#13 - I've sent Judge Barton - well, technically, Mrs. Barton - the ceremony structure. Just waiting to hear back on his thoughts, after that we're good to go. I have zero concerns about this one!

#15 - Betsy has decided to personally invite our guests to the rehearsal dinner; therefore, invitations won't be necessary. That would be another check!

#17 - With regards to the trial-run of my hair and makeup. I've found the style that I love. At first I was completely sold on having my hair up - for a reason that will be kept a secret. However, after trying my dress on - I've gone back to the half-up, half-down. I can't wait to see it put together!

Therefore, a week into our Two-Month Mark...out of 17 "must do's", 9.5 have been accomplished! And, I thought we did nothing this week...

53 days, 2 hours, 50 minutes and 14 seconds

Perfect Fit

2009-07-06T21:52:00.002-04:00

This afternoon Mom and I took a trip to Main Street Alterations here in Greenwood for my first dress fitting. I secretly put my dress on prior to the appointment for the first time, to get an idea of what I'd like. Granted, Ryan was the only one at the house, therefore he had to be the zipper-upper. I just didn't trust Calvin's huge paws to do the trick! :)

The dressing room was extremely small for a bride and her dress, but once I walked out, Mom and I had the same expression - pull it up for some more coverage, hem the front only and add a bustle. We were in and out in record time, and the best part - it will be ready for the second (and hopefully final!) fitting on the 17th - as in the 17th of July!

In other news, I found my Bride Binder tonight! Stuffed way back in our "organized mess" (also known as our closet...). On top of that I've started my rounds of emails - I feel like I'm repeating myself, but setting up the final appointments will be worth it.

We've started to track the invitation responses we receive each day. Actually, I started this the first day - we've received a few "Regretfully Declines", but we'll share as many pictures with everyone as possible. Of course, we sent out the response cards with the "M______" line, where our guests are to write the names of their party. For instance, "Mr. and Mrs. R. Michael Carrico"...however, one guest just likes to make a statement - she wrote "M - arMar + Kelly"! :) Love you, MarMar!

One of the big items we have to complete before even meeting with DJ Ryan, is to finalize the wedding play list. Therefore, tonight we're sending an email to our bridal party asking for a list of songs they love. I've yet to add my selection of classics, love ballads and Jessica songs. We'll see what they come up with!

Counting down the days!

2009-07-05T20:58:00.004-04:00

To start out the two-month mark, we have a load to accomplish! Now that we've officially moved in and the softball season is over - my evenings will be packed with 100% wedding. And, you thought I wouldn't know what to do with my time?! :)

Before I begin my monthly update, it should be noted that we've accomplished every task needed up until this point. That kind of scares me - looking back and forward, knowing how much more we have to do. As for moving forward, here we go!

Please note that somewhere in our mess of stuff, my Bride Binder has been kindly packed away. Therefore, the small updates I grab from the checklist in it will be added as soon as we clean up! In the meantime, TheKnot says...

Two Months To Go:

1. Confirm reservations for out-of-town guests.
* Earlier this week I told by my father that a few (not to name anyone specifically, but let's just say they're on the Carrico side!) guests have requested hotel information. Check your email (or your wife's!) because it's been sent. I have on my list to follow up with the Hilton Indianapolis North to verify how many rooms have been booked and if we need to open another block.

2. Arrange parking for the reception.
* This could be the trickiest of them all. There is limited parking at Laurel Hall - the only turn-off of the location. Knowing how many people will be staying at the Hilton will help out a lot. Those who will be staying at the Hilton will be able to use the complementary shuttle service, leaving a few open spaces. There is a stretch of road that wraps behind a row a trees we may use for vendor parking - giving us the rest for our guests. Also, knowing exactly how many guests will be joining us will open up some room. More than likely this is a late July/early August completed task.

3. Order liquor, wine and/or champagne if they're not included in the catering.
* For the last several weeks Mom and I have been scouting out the beer "best by" dates. The last thing we want is skunky beer! Last week, while shopping for groceries, we noticed a September 20-ish date - but I'd rather see something in October, just to be on the safe side. I think another week or two and we'll be good.

4. As you receive presents, be sure to update and/or add items to your registry list and record the gifts you get.
* With technology the way it is today, hopefully this is all being done for us. My first bridal shower is just three weeks away, at that point I'll start the big "thank yous"!

5. Submit your wedding announcement to the newspapers (if you so desire).
* We desire! However, we're waiting until after the wedding to submit our announcement. We'd love to share a wedding photo from Nicole in the papers. Being originally from Louisville, my parents have asked that we share the news in the Louisville paper as well.

6. Research local marriage license requirements.
* I keep telling myself I know the "requirements", but I have this strange feeling we'll walk up to the doors and we'll forget something...kind of like when we got all the way home tonight and realized we forgot our key! Therefore, this is at the top of our list.

7. Bride: Buy gifts for your maid of honor and bridesmaids.
* I've not only bought my gifts for my maids of honor and my bridesmaid, but I purchased these months ago! Check and mark.

8. Groom: Buy gifts for your best man, groomsmen, and ushers.
* First things first, our groomsmen are our ushers. Secondly, Eric's come together with several options. We're waiting on one small detail before the final package is prepared - but so far, so good.

9. Buy a guest book (and a nice pen).
* I've purchased the guest book. Initially we were going to purchase a yearbook-like guest book, but have sense decided against it. When we registered at Target, we were given a Shutterfly gift card, and we've found a few other things we like more...for instance, a wedding book! :) Therefore, I have a wonderful, traditional book that will be used - just need to find a nice pen!

10. Groom: Attend your bachelor party (and be sure to thank the best man afterwards).
* This really should read - Groom: Contact your best man to see if a bachelor party is in the works. Don't wait until the last minute - deal?

11. Make an appointment to take the veil to your hairstylist and make sure your wedding hair and veil work together.
* I have an appointment scheduled for August 8th. Amanda and Dana will be tagging along to give their thoughts, which they do so well!

12. Brides: Attend final wedding-gown fitting.
* After tomorrow I'll have a better idea of when the next fitting will take place. I'm hoping only two are needed!

13. Finalize vows.
* These have been finalized for a while. We're going to look over the entire ceremony one last time, timing it out, and then we'll send it to Judge Barton for the final approval.

14. Set aside some time to write thank-you notes for gifts received at the bridal shower.
* Not a problem - after the bridal showers!

15. Send rehearsal dinner invitations.
* A little over a week ago, I picked three invitations I loved. I'm still waiting to hear from Betsy about which is her favorite - after that we're set!

16. Finish and print ceremony programs.
* I cannot begin to think of this right now. I'm so afraid that if I print them, I'll end up changing something last minute. This really may be a September 1st project! At that point, there's no going back, I think! :)

and, finally...

17. Do trial runs of hair and makeup; schedule wedding-day beauty appointments.
* The trial run for makeup has already been done, way back in October - for our engagement pictures. I loved the way Nan did my makeup - and the day-of will be very similar...just more bride-like! The hair trial, as previously mentioned, is scheduled. The wedding-day beauty appointments have all been booked and adjusted to fit our schedules. Like I would mess these up! :)

There you have it - a busy, busy, busy month for the both of us! Ah,but nothing we can't handle in 61 days, 1 hour, 27 minutes and 38 seconds! :)

Dear Eric,

2009-07-05T19:37:00.001-04:00

Happy Negative Two Months! :)

Love,
Emily

Back Up and Running!

2009-07-03T09:03:00.003-04:00

I've been missing in action lately for several reasons...one being that our cable and internet went out, which meant I couldn't post - second, the Center Grove Lassie League tournament was this week (where my girls finished first in the regular season, made it to the championship game and unfortunately came in second) - and finally, a mix between a busy workweek and a July cold. However, we're back up and running - and I've got several things to talk about!

Our final payment has been made on the honeymoon! :) Eric and I (probably more me than him!) cannot wait for our little Caribbean adventure and are excited it's right around the corner! We think for our honeymoon, we've picked the best locations! Granted, I'm already taking shopping orders from family members...then again, there's nothing more I love than shopping! :)

I've made my first appointment for the bridal fitting. Monday @ 3pm. Part of me is thinking I should put it on (seeing as how I haven't) prior to visiting the boutique, but that makes me completely nervous. I've got a vision of what I want done, which helps. That, and, I can't forget all of the feelings I had when I put it for the first time and knew it was The One.

I'm in the process of contacting all of our vendors, setting up the one-month mark meetings. I'd rather get dates together now, have them planned out - instead of cramming everything together at once. Between a busy July, Eric registering everything with Franklin College - our dates may become slim.

I should take this opportunity to say, that my bridesmaids are amazing. They are planning my bridal shower here in Indy - and after several attempts to find out when the date was, they cracked. Apparently, I wasn't supposed to see the invitation (thanks Penny!) - but I can already tell how much they're putting into it. They truly are the best any bride can ask for! My Louisville shower is going to have some tough competition! :)

Moving along...

2009-06-29T13:01:00.003-04:00

Not much has happened over the last week...outside of sending out the invitations. We have started to receive our response cards back at a very quick pace...that's one thing that makes me happy! Of course seeing the "Graciously Accepts" is really the best part!

Ah, one BIG thing has happened...we have finalized our Rehearsal Dinner! I'm still picking out the times between Laurel Hall, but we've made the final decision on where to have it. We originally wanted to have a low-key pasta bar dinner at my parents' house - however Betsy was looking for something more formal. We chose pasta for two reasons really - (1) it fills people up! and (2) when Eric and I first started dating we used to make pasta all the time. Betsy went right along with our idea, but has chosen to celebrate the night before at Olive Garden. We were able to find a location that was just miles away from Laurel Hall - giving us time to rehearse and not have a super-late dinner. All around, this works 100%.

I have a tentative plan to have my first dress fitting on Friday. With my schedule this week, between trying to pack, coaching the tournament, and work - it's going to be extra busy! I'm becoming more nervous each day about putting my dress on, but good nerves nonetheless. And, all of our guys have now been fitted for their tuxedos!

This upcoming weekend, Eric and I will officially be moved into our "place". I've swung by almost every day - trying to get used to the idea of calling it "home". Not sure that's ever really going to happen. I've still yet to pack a thing - trying to avoid the entire conversation in general. For those who haven't caught on - moving out isn't something I've prepared myself for...specifically emotionally. I'm sure every day this week I'll cry (kind of like I'm doing right now) and then the day it's official, I'll probably cry some more. This entire experience has really shown me how blessed I am to have my family and Eric.

Also, this weekend we'll hit the TWO month mark - and I've already started to peek at the Checklist. Three words really sums it up: Lots. To. Do. In the meantime...only 67 days to go! :)

Sending "them" and Us Off in STYLE!

2009-06-23T12:39:00.009-04:00

They've been mailed! :) Last night we received the invitation envelopes back from Mrs. Boshell (Thanks again, Connie! They look perfect!). We stuffed and stamped the envelopes late last night and Mom dropped them off at the Post Office this afternoon. Part of me was so nervous...but now that they're out of my hands, there's no going back. Now, we just sit and wait for the responses and put together the final touches! :)

Speaking of final touches...we've confirmed our "limo" from Laurel Hall to the Omni Hotel on our wedding night. I'd like to introduce, the same style car used in 101 Dalmatians:

We've chosen Hoosier Limousine for several reasons. First being, the car itself. It adds that bit of elegance that carries on throughout our day. We also loved that they have been to Laurel Hall several times, and are aware of how to get there, the gate and such. The gentlemen are extremely professional and polite, which we just can't get enough of. Finally, who wouldn't want to ride in Cruella De Vil's car?!

This Sunday Mom and I took Dad and Ryan to Men's Warehouse for their fitting. Dad, of course, made every attempt to change the tux color and failed - but he did walk out with two new sport coats. We're only one tperson short, and despite asking us over-and-over whether his tuxedo T-shirt will work, he's well aware the pressure is on!

Right now a tentative date for my first dress fitting is next Friday. This week would have been originally preferred - but with a mix up with La Casa de Davis, next Friday is best. I'm beginning to get nervous about putting it on for the first time - but at least I have in my mind, exactly how I want it to look.

I've also chosen three Rehearsal Dinner invitations I like the most - all from Wedding Paper Divas. I've sent off the proofs to Betsy - letting her choose the final version. Really, I could go with all of them - but giving each Rehearsal Dinner guest three invitations would be a bit much! We have set the menu - which we think will suit everyone invited! :)

Therefore, the only thing left from the 3 Month mark would be the dress...even though it feels like we have so much more to do!

73 days, 10 hours, 42 minutes, and 38 seconds...but who's counting?!

A quick update about...well, everything!

2009-06-18T18:15:00.004-04:00

Sure, I could have mentioned this earlier - but it just didn't feel like it went with my entire posting theme. Therefore, on a small wedding note...

We've booked our ceremony music! Last night Mom and I went to visit the anonymous Brochure Lady (Nancy), who plays the flute along with one other. They played several samples from recommended/traditional ceremony songs and sounded fantastic. I choose the songs right there on the spot and love all of them.

They mix very well together, and add that bit of elegance I love. They each have multiple years of experience playing at wedding ceremonies - specifically outdoor ceremonies. On top of that, they're personalities are great! I'm beyond thrilled to have this task tackled and marked off our list.

I placed the phone call this afternoon for the vintage car, but have yet to hear back. I'll give them another buzz tomorrow, if I don't hear something this evening. I've also started the "if you don't do it this weekend, I'll scream" push for the handsome guys in the wedding. Dad and Ryan are going this weekend to get measured, and I've sent an even extra push at Dan and Neil. Come on boys, you can do it!

And, on a last note - we'll have our invitations out by Monday! :) Mrs. Boshell ran out of brown calligraphy ink, and unfortunately, had to order more - but Monday works just as fine. As long as we've got them out between the 8/9 week mark, I'm happy! Seeing as how we have so few invitations anyway, it makes for a calm RSVP process.

Exactly One Year

2009-06-18T15:00:00.002-04:00

Today marks exactly one year since Eric surprised me with the question I had been waiting for! I may have been the only one who woke up this morning remembering this day - but come on, I remember everything. I can't begin to explain how fast time has flown by and how happy I am that it has! I've never, in my life, had as much fun as I have had over the last year planning every part of our wedding. Seeing everything come together day-by-day makes me a pretty lucky bride!

I'll never forget the romantic dinner the night before, or the lost and long drive to Shades. I'll never forget the way he asked, what the sky looked like, the temperature outside, or what we were wearing (heck, I remember what we both wore on our first date!). It was the biggest surprise, with a thousand of emotions. I had dreamt about the moment he'd ask for years - but never imagined it quite like how it happened. On a sappy note...

Eric, you amaze me everyday. You are the strength that guides me and pulls me back together when it feels like things have fallen apart. I love you, bunches & tons.

She did good.

2009-06-16T21:37:00.002-04:00

Tonight has been one of THE best nights throughout this entire planning process. Not only did we receive a lovely letter from Woody Burton of the Indiana State House of Representatives, wishing us a congratulations (along with a lovely, laminated version of our engagement announcement) - BUT, Mom and I completed the bridal flowers! :) Granted, they still need a little tuning-up, but at least they're put together. We'll worry about fiddling with the final touches just before The Big Day.

It wasn't all happy-go-lucky, mind you. She made the first one, and well, I hated it. It had pieces sticking straight up, one side bigger than the other, nowhere near the "full, round" idea I was pushing for. Of course, she didn't really like my "attitude" - but let's all keep in mind, I warned her! I was very flexible with the table arrangements - and made it 100% known that I would put my foot down about the bridal flowers...and this time, it was both feet! However, she turned right around and wow-ed me from that moment on!

We finished the bridesmaid flowers first - then started to work on mine. I knew I wanted my bouquet to be bigger than the other three, but how it was shaped - that I really didn't know. Well, I take that back - I wanted it round, as in nothing hanging down in the front. We first took one batch of flowers, but it wasn't enough - I wanted more. Therefore, we took the other stack and I'm pretty sure the bouquet was as big as our house. Scratch that. We then chopped, picked, snapped, cut into pieces what we wanted and voila! Let's just say, it's perfect. Again, minor tweaking will be applied later, but as of right now, it's perfect.

Now, of course the batch of flowers I chose for my bouquet wasn't quite the same as the bridesmaid flowers; therefore, I added my own touch. I took one specific flower from my bouquet and placed it within each of the others. Again, perfect. The colors are orange, yellow, purple, green, touch of red - pretty much everything except sage and chocolate. The colors will look amazing next to the dresses - which only gets me more excited! :)

Momma, you did good. :) I hope I was able to show you a few skills I've got up my sleeve! Love you!

Tackling the Must-Dos

2009-06-14T23:10:00.003-04:00

Not only did we start off this Sunday morning determined to accomplish several tasks - as of 10:30pm we've realized we have so much more to do. Today's topics:

-- Rehearsal Dinner
-- Reserved Signs
-- Table Arrangements
-- Cake Table Arrangements

and

-- Travel Research.

Talk about a "holy smokes" moment. Regarding the rehearsal dinner - Eric spoke with his mom about getting together next weekend to go over anything and everything. She, of course, agreed - who wouldn't want a lunch with family?! :) On an even deeper note, Eric and I also threw ideas out to each other about several menu options to discuss with Betsy - all of which we believe could be equally successful.

The "Reserved" signs are half way there. I quickly put together an idea this evening, and then made some adjustments. I've determined that a paper-cutter is most definitely needed...I must have failed "cutting" in art class (I swear, it's the darn right-handed scissors for left-handers!).

The 16 table arrangements have been completed! :) For a moment there I thought it would take us (OK, just Mom) days! She was all determined to get them done and "get her dining room back" - but after completing two, I look over and she's taking a break! However, they were successfully completed and look spectacular. We've packed them up and are sending them off to "storage" (aka: Mom's work). For the most part, she and I saw eye-to-eye on the entire table arrangement idea. She ran with whatever was in her silly, little brain. Now, as for the bridal arrangements - those I might just be a bit more vocal about, if she's not careful! :)

The cake table arrangements really aren't arrangements at all. In fact, they have zero to do with flowers, but they do involve the filler we've chosen for the flower vases. I was in charge of this one - and if I do say so myself - they looked just as spectacular as the table decorations! Granted, they took very little effort - but effort nonetheless.

As for the travel research - no, we're not rerouting our honeymoon. We're just researching a way to get from Laurel Hall to the Omni safely. Of course, safety is our first priority - but it wouldn't be "Emily" without safety and style. Therefore, I've researched several antique limousines/sedans that are within a reasonable price. Obviously the commute from one to the other isn't a long distance; therefore, the price quotes we've found aren't exactly worth the drive. I did find one (with a very impressive automobile I know nothing about, except for the fact that it's pretty!) that is roughly under $100 - which is a price I can live with. Unfortunately, The Yaris just won't cut it for this event...

P.S. Mom and I had a great time visiting the women in Ohio this weekend! Andrea's sister (Hi Molly!) did a wonderful job planning her bridal shower. We played the toilet paper bride game (which I love, hint to my aunts and Amanda/Dana) and Mamaw was our bride! She looks marvelous wrapped in all white - with a toilet paper bouquet and engagement ring to match! Of course, MarMar won the game, strutting her stuff, veil and all! :)

Music & Markers

2009-06-12T13:02:00.002-04:00

Earlier this week, I received a random letter in the mail from someone I had never met. Sure, it sounds creepy - and I'm sure you're yelling out loud, "Emily! Why did you open it!" - but really it was something we needed! As previously mentioned (at least I hope I did), we ran into a bump with our pianist for the wedding ceremony. Therefore, we started gaining several options. The first was playing the music ourselves - scratch that. The second one was really our bigger option - having our DJ play the music, which he is more than willing to do and has done it for several clients and more. The last option - start looking around for someone else to play.

The letter came from a woman who lives in Greenwood and received our information from our Engagement Announcement in the Daily Journal. She simply explained that she plays the flute, and has at multiple wedding ceremonies over the years. She and a few friends play traditional wedding music throughout the ceremony, including up to an hour of music prior to the ceremony start. That, and of course her price - which isn't too bad either!

We've scheduled time to hear her (and everyone else) play Wednesday night. At first I was all for DJ Ryan stepping in, but I could tell Mom and Dad both wanted something more. Not that DJ Ryan isn't a musician (in some silly way, I like to consider him one!) - but having someone play would definitely bring in the elegance element we're picturing for the entire day.

Mom and I were also talking this afternoon about a new idea, something fun. With the number of younger cousins I have and Eric's nephews, we want to make sure everyone stays entertained. And, unfortunately Laurel Hall isn't quite child-proof entertainment. There's one particular room that, at this point, is pretty much a stand-alone type of thing. The room overlooks the ceremony location with windows on three of the four walls - which in this case, really doesn't matter. Either way, Mom came up with a great idea...have a table, set to the side, with markers, crayons and coloring books. I love this idea - for one, the photo opportunities for Nicole (& Dan!). And, secondly, it will keep the kiddos from running around like crazy, touching everything in sight (not that they'd actually do that...).

Last night I got an opportunity to chit-chat with a looong-time family friend (whom also used to babysit myself and my brother) about everything we have yet to do. She eased my nerves (slightly, very slightly), but said it all..."It's all worth it in the end." :)

Scrambled wedding items, anyone?

2009-06-11T14:20:00.006-04:00

Today I've had my mind focused on several things...the wedding being the top (as always). In fact, while driving from one location for work to the next, I swung into Embroidery 'N Things to pick up my "Mrs. Davis" jacket. And, I love it! I was a little nervous, second guessing - yes, I know, big surprise - the font, but it turned out wonderful. On an even better note - the grand total of my creation: $27.00! (Compared to the $65.00 jacket from TheKnot - that's the price without tax and shipping!)

After that my next stop was to pick up Eric's band. The font is smaller than I thought it was going to be, but outside of that - it's perfect, too. Besides, he's the one who will know it's there - no matter how big or small the phrase is.

After this weekend, and then another crazy week of work and softball, Eric and I are hoping Betsy and Bob are free for a lunch/dinner to discuss the details for the rehearsal dinner. I've started to write down our ideas to make sure we don't leave any crazy idea we've come up with out. I keep going back and forth with whether to have a themed dinner or non-themed. I'm not quite the hula skirt type of girl, but maybe something Cinderella?! :)

Pending on the weather, my Lightning Ladies (that would be the softball team I coach, along with Amanda - for those who aren't aware) are supposed to play tonight. If the weather turns south, which it looks like it just might - we're taking the girls to dinner, but the evening will be much shorter than it would if we did play. I'm sure you're wondering how this fits in with the wedding - but needless to say, I'm wanting to put together a sample "Reserved" sign for Mom, and maybe finally begin on the darn flowers. I'm thinking I may just have to lock Mom in the house, hold her hostage and force the flowers in her hands! Then again, I've heard she works the best under pressure - i.e., Dan & Michelle's wedding and Ryan's prom.

I've told myself that I'm going to sit down and think of the songs I'd like to hear at our wedding. And usually this occurs after I've just heard a song that I love on the radio...but driving and writing isn't safe. Eric has compiled a great list, but he's missing a few key songs. For instance, I'm not sure he has The First Dance song labeled, the Father/Daughter - Mother/Son songs written down, the song played during our cake cutting, yada, yada, yada. Basically it's time that I start cracking down on the details.

On other news, Eric and I will officially have "our place" on June 23rd! Yes, friends, I'm packing my bags and heading out of my Mom and Dad's house. After almost 24 years of sleeping down the hall from them, it's put my emotions in check. I'm beyond eager and excited to start my life with Eric (and, really, what's five miles away) but for me - it's still a little hard not to cry when I pack up a box. Therefore, on top of having a job, coaching softball, planning The Event of the Year, I'm also finalizing everything for El Casa de Davis - correction, La Casa de Davis.

Yep, nothing new...

2009-06-10T08:54:00.005-04:00

Eh...as of Friday, zero - I repeat, zero - progress has been made. And, trust me, I'm aware I'm slacking! First of all, the flowers are still sitting in the box, in the dining room - haven't budged an inch. Sure, you could blame that on me - but really, my florist is quite the procrastinator! :) With the rain coming down this morning (and according to Mr. Weather Man, it could continue into the evening) it may be possible to get these moving this evening. Mom looks at me as her apprentice - I look at myself as The Bride, letting her know my opinion about the arrangements! :)

Eric's wedding band and my jacket should arrive within days, which is progress - small, but progress nonetheless. And, yesterday - while visiting Nicole at Robert's Salon & Spa - I started brainstorming the entire wedding timeline in length. It first started with showing her the bookings I made for the girls (and myself, of course). She helped to tweak the schedule a little - making sure we received the best service for The Big Day. I keep telling myself that anything I put together today could possibly be thrown out the window once the actual day arrives, but better to have it than to not be prepared!

This weekend Mom and I are headed to Cincinnati (really Dayton, but we're stopping in Cincinnati) for Andrea's bridal shower - side note: Andrea is marrying my cousin, Nick (Kelly's older brother), in July...crazy how it's almost July! I've hinted to Dad that this weekend might just be the perfect time to be fitted for his tux (along with Ryan)...but now that I think about it - I'm taking that hint back. I'd rather not have Dad venture into Men's Warehouse without me...he might just change out the tux color to hot pink and that's a BIG no-no! However, Neil and Dan - you're more than welcome to visit MW without me! :)

Not only did Nicole help with the hair and makeup scheduling - but she also rounded up some thoughts on alterations shops. Several ladies at the Salon had first-hand experience with a shop in Greenwood and highly recommend her work, but did warn me that her personality being a bit abrasive. I can handle abrasive, I can't handle a dress disaster. One lady did recommend that I stop in and ask all of the questions that are running through my head. Which is probably the best advice...what's the worst that could happen without bringing my dress in?!

So, there you have it - nothing new to report, nothing excited, nothing to leave you on the edge of your seat with, zip, nadda, none. But, at least you flatter me with reading this over and over!

P.S. On one final note...HAPPY NEGATIVE ONE YEAR, NEIL & AMANDA!! :) One year from today, we'll all be sitting on the b-e-a-utiful Scotland grass celebrating your day...for the two of you, now the fun really begins.

As promised...

2009-06-05T13:21:00.003-04:00

I should mention that I went to bed last night knowing today was a very big day...as I have on the 4th of every month for almost the last year. However, at 6:33AM this morning it hit me, thanks to a lovely text message that read: "HAPPY NEGATIVE 3 MONTHS!!!"

According to Dictionary.com the word "three" is "a cardinal number, 2 plus 1". I can't even begin to imagine how I'll feel when we're just one month away!! In the meantime, let's catch up with where we're at right now...

First of all, earlier this week I not only dropped off my jacket to be stitched, but also dropped off Eric's wedding band. And, I was able to swing into Hobby Lobby and found scrapbook paper to match exactly what I imagined for the "Reserved" signs. Check, check and check. Despite having the programs completed, I'm waiting to print them until closer to the actual day. I fear that if I print them all now, we'll change something (because we never do that!) and I'll have to reprint them. And, we aren't quite sure how many guests will actually be in attendance (well, we know one who won't - Angie - but I won't name names...). But, have no fear - the "Lightning of the Unity Candle" has been adjusted correctly.

Now, as for Month #3...here we go:

1. Arrange for all insurance policies to include you and your future spouse.
*Eh, we'll work on this one later...in the meantime, I'm considering this a "check".

2. Send wedding bands out to be engraved (make sure they'll be back in time for the wedding).
*Check. Not only will it be back in time for the wedding - it will be back by Wednesday!

3. Brides: Begin your fittings.
*Three of the most terrifying words imaginable. I just told Dana last night that I fear alterations, deathly afraid. Once you become a bride you hear thousands of horror stories about alterations. This is the dress, the last thing I want to do is allow someone to rip, shred, harm, cut it into pieces...but, it's got to be done. I have gotten several recommendations on a location here in Greenwood, but I've still decided I'll "interview" the woman first.

4. Send out invitations (be sure to add extra postage for overseas guests).
*Clarification - we don't have overseas guests. We do have to add extra postage, but we've worked that out already. We should be getting them back very soon from Mrs. Boshell. Once they're back - it's stuff, seal, stick and go!

5. Arrange wedding-day transportation for you, your wedding party, and guests (as needed).
*Getting to Laurel Hall, my chauffeur will be the same chauffeur I've had for years...my mother! Now, getting to the Omni Hotel from Laurel Hall, that's still up in the air. Because I know both Eric and I will have a drink (or two...) during the reception, the last thing I want to do is get in a car and drive. Therefore, I'm looking at other options. Outside of actually determining our means of transportation, we will also need to have a plan of getting one of our cars there for the morning after. This may take some thinking and rearranging...

6. Plan rehearsal diner: determine place and order invitations.
*We've already started thinking! We've actually discussed (between the two of us) several casual ideas and are waiting to for Betsy and Bob to arrive back from Florida to discuss everything. Invitations - those just may end up being ordered from Wedding Paper Divas...after the "stress" I added to myself about the real invitations!

7. Order or make wedding favors.
*Check. Complete. End of story. By now, most (if not all) of you are aware of our wedding favor idea. The Annual Golf Tournament is scheduled for July 11th - and the donation will be made. Exactly what we wanted from the very beginning.

8. Purchase guest book for guest notes.
*Check and mark.

9. Research signature drink options.
*Hm...the only signature we have is Coors, Bud or Oliver?! :) Either way, the entire "signature drink" isn't really our style, we're happy with the beverage choices we've chosen.

10. Request time off from work for your honeymoon.
*I'm an HR Professional - I worked this out over two months ago!

11. Finalize flower arrangements for the ceremony, reception and bridal party.
*Did I mention we've sometimes procrastinated on our wedding agenda items?! This would be one of them. I think the box of flowers moved from downstairs in our "back room", to in front of the steps (still in the basement), to the top of the steps, to the hallway and are now sitting patiently in the dining room. Shortly they'll actually make their way out of the packaging and will become beautiful arrangements...shortly.

12. Order wedding programs.
*Please note above.

So, of the 12 - we've already accomplished...1, 2, 3...oh about half. We've got plenty to keep ourselves busy with now! Apparently, we've accomplished almost 190 tasks...I'm telling you, it feels more like 190,000! :)

Oh, boy...

2009-06-05T06:47:00.001-04:00

...it's getting closer!! With exactly THREE MONTHS to go - we have a lot to do!! Granted, this entire week has been crazy for the two of us (hint why you won't receive a friendly checklist update until later) - but that didn't leave us to discount how close we're getting.

I promise, this afternoon - a checklist update will be made for your reading pleasure...

We're Famous!!

2009-05-30T22:49:00.004-04:00

Please feel free to hold onto your copy of today's Daily Journal...Eric and I will autograph it next time we see you! :) As I mentioned once before, I caved and placed our engagement announcement in the local newspaper.

By now, really the entire world knows we're getting married, but I could secretly tell Mom wanted it in the paper. The "editor" (I don't really know her exact title) called me earlier this week and gave me a heads-up that our announcement would be in this morning's issue. And, if I do say so myself, it turned out pretty darn well!

I, obviously, wanted a copy to keep for myself, and figured Mom, Betsy and Mamaw would want one as well. Mamaw keeps everything. Therefore, I was able to round up a few extra copies. One from a lady Mom works with and two from the stand outside McDonald's. I never realized how stunning we look together! :)

On a different note, the wedding programs are complete. For having zero professional graphic design experience, I'm very pleased with how they've turned out. We did opt to go simple with the font and colors, easy on the eyes to read and print. With ivory paper (and a pearl border) we've decided the chocolate brown ink is best. I absolutely love how they've turned out!

I also contacted an embroidery shop and was given a "go" for the design idea for my jacket. The owner explained the million types of fonts, colors and styles he uses and that I could stop in anytime Monday-Friday. Therefore, I'm headed over on Monday to put the final touches together.

Part of me didn't want to squeal, but I did anyway...as you can tell, the Carricos have a hard time keeping anything exciting a secret! Initially I was going to make it a surprise for Eric with an engraved phrase on the inside of his wedding band, but I didn't want it to be something he thought was too cheesy. He, of course, did not - but I did promise myself I wouldn't tell him what it will say. I ran into a small dilemma when I contacted our jeweler and realized they do not engrave wedding bands. However, I was given a superior recommendation (you know, those Arnolds know people!) and found a guy who will do it for me, no limit, back within a week and without hassle. Perfect! I'm going to drop the band off on Tuesday to decide on a font. I have an idea in mind and am sure it won't be hard to fit together.

It's funny to me, that when planning a wedding, it comes in phases. One week my bride binder isn't touched - and the very next it never leaves my hands!

Back everything up...

2009-05-29T23:40:00.003-04:00

Granted, unlike Amanda, I may not have lost everything on my Wedding Jump Drive, but I have "misplaced" a very important, specific, top-of-the-line document...our wedding ceremony! I know for a fact that when I was comparing our initial version to Judge Barton's, I saved it - but where is an entirely different story.

I've checked every jump drive I own, every computer I would have used, every email address I've ever associated myself with and nowhere could it be found. It's completely disappeared. It ran away. The little guy inside my computer stole it, holding it hostage, expecting ransom.

However, in light of this entire "Moment of Freak-Out", I have found a solution. I have managed somehow not to delete our initial version of the ceremony structure, and had yet to empty the trashcan in my room (where I placed the last copy of Judge Barton's version just yesterday). Therefore, instead of updating our wedding programs...this evening I've re-updated what will be read at our ceremony. Not exactly the plans I preferred.

After two bridal jump drive/computer issues within 48 hours, I second what Amanda wrote on her blog...back everything up...a million times!

Bye-Bye Triple Digits

2009-05-29T07:55:00.007-04:00

We have exactly 100 days to go! :) I can't quite figure out which emotion is hitting me more, the idea that this is our last day of triple-digit countdown numbers or that in just a few weeks we'll have been engaged for one full year!

Of course, I shared my excitement this morning with Eric - and I received one word in response: "Cool." Maybe it's because last night, after softball practice, we ran into Chik-fil-A for dinner and happened to see an old friend I graduated from high school with, who is an Assistant Manager. Let's just say, she put him on the spot. Let me be specific here - her direct question was, "What is the date?" Therefore, I responded with September 5th...Eric responded with May 28th (as in the actual date of the day, not THE day).

It was downhill from that moment forward. We each laughed at Eric's confusion, but after the answer to her next question - she quickly stopped asking questions overall. As she's filling our soft drinks, she looks up and says directly to Eric, "What are the colors?" And, ladies and gentlemen, he stuttered. The only three words to come out of his mouth: "Brown and (with a pause) green." Some brides would give him credit. Sure, his answer was in the ballpark range - but for someone so consumed in details as I am, he should know better. However, it was the look he gave me afterwards that just read, "Babe, I know that's not right." I opted not to make a scene and simply corrected his response with detail...chocolate brown and sage green.

--

We're close to being done with the programs. They really are very simple, but still with a bit of elegance. I refused to overfill the pages of words, rather keeping it very structured and traditional. Eric and I would still like to add a small paragraph on the back, but we haven't really sat down and agreed with what to say. It's a work-in-progress, but last time I checked I've got a few days left before the next Month's To Dos!

I'm currently on two missions. The first - finding a seamstress/alteration shop locally. I've had several recommendations for a location down the street from A Bride's Dream...however, driving to Avon isn't exactly what I want to do. I'm continuing to do some research and will make my first stop within the next month. My biggest concerns, outside of making sure it doesn't fall off, is completing the train. Without giving away too much, it basically didn't come with a designed bustle. However, I'm completely confident, that with the help of a professional, we can make something work.

The second mission - an embroiderer. Of course what the bride wears the morning of her wedding day is very important - and I've known what I wanted since before Eric even popped the question.

It wouldn't be me, without a few changes. Instead of reading "Soon to be" - mine will only say "Mrs. Davis". I've found where you can order a personalized one online, but spending $50 (plus shipping) isn't exactly what I was hoping to do. Therefore, I ran into Old Navy, found a white (zip-up, not to mess up my hair!) jacket for $15. Because "Davis" isn't a long last name, I'm hoping the embroidery isn't off the wall. I've found a few locations here in Greenwood and plan to make the phone calls this afternoon. I'll be sure to keep you posted!

And, because I'm sure you're just sitting on the edge of your seat dying to know what color I'll choose for the stitching...pink. It's the only thing not sage green.

In the meantime...I'm enjoying today, because tomorrow when we wake up it's "Bye-bye Triple-Digits!" and "Hello Double!"

Baby Calvin!

2009-05-26T15:10:00.008-04:00

As promised...our newest family member! :) Isn't he cute...but not as cute as another black pooch I know!

Dad's Little Smile

2009-05-25T22:51:00.010-04:00

On Friday, Eric and I took a trip up to Winamac, Indiana - which was a trip that has zero to do with the wedding; however, it was a trip we'll never forget. I woke up that morning more excited than I had in months - knowing we were about to bring home Dad's Little Smile...his Calvin to our Hobbes! :)

Dad had been talking for months about when he and Mom were going to bring home Calvin, and secretly I had already started my search. If anyone has grown attached to Hobbes, it's been Dad. Hobbes has a way to make you laugh in every moment - and sometimes Dad needs that more than others. Therefore, last Tuesday I contacted Vicki about her cockapoo (that would be a Cocker-Spaniel and Poodle mix...not a cockadoodle!) litter. She described over the phone a male baby whose personality couldn't be more of what we were looking for. She kept saying, "He loves to be the center of attention!" - PERFECT!

Two and a half hours after leaving Greenwood, we arrived in the middle of nowhere (literally) - only to find out we took "the long way". But once Vicki brought out Calvin and his little brother (One-eyed Jack) the drive wiped right out of our minds. He truly is Dad's Little Smile. It blows me away how instantly you can become attached to something that, 24-hours earlier, wasn't in your life.

We initially wanted him to be a complete surprise for Dad - but Mom ruined that Wednesday night by mentioning to him that I had "something really exciting" to tell him. He was traveling all week and wouldn't arrive home until Friday night - perfect setting...thanks Mom! We ended up telling him the surprise anyway, and Friday night when we were all sitting outside watching Calvin pick on Hobbes - Dad leaned over and said, "You know, knowing we were bringing him home - that made my week." That makes a girl feel pretty good inside! :)

(And, I know you're probably wondering why I don't have a picture...but the little guy won't sit still long enough for me to take a good one! I'll post one soon, I promise!)

Now...regarding our wedding...

This evening I've been working on the "Day Of Timeline", but ran into a few bumps...one being, that I didn't have a clue where to start! Granted I went straight to a lovely friend of mine called Google and began some research. I found a few sample timelines from local wedding planners, and then received a few that Amanda had from previous weddings. The biggest item that needs to be scheduled is for the girls - hair and makeup. I've chosen to have our hair and makeup done at Robert's Salon and Spa...which is the same salon I visit every three months to make my naturally dark-brown hair, blond (thanks Nicole!)...and the same salon that did my hair and makeup for our engagement pictures. Obviously once the actual day comes, who knows what type of schedule we'll be on - but it's better to have a tentative one than not have one at all!

I've also started to sketch out our programs and am hoping to have this completed by the weekend. This task really isn't one that takes too much - just wanting to get it out of the way now, versus later.

On a funnier note - Dad finally admitted he likes the chocolate brown tuxedos! Well, he didn't really come out and say he likes them...but having him say, "Em, I'd wear anything you'd ask me to." - that solidifies it for me! :)

Programs, Music and More

2009-05-20T18:36:00.005-04:00

Yesterday Eric and I sat down and compared our researched ceremony ideas to Judge Barton's. Overall we stuck with Judge Barton's version, but added a few pieces we liked from ours. I have fallen in love with writing this ceremony! Every time I read over it, I get goosebumps! I love the ability to write the things we want to hear, not just what is "required".

Eric's only request surrounds our vows...and yes, he still wants to say them! We both have agreed that repeating them after Judge Barton is best - however, Eric has become so overly nervous that he's requested Judge Barton breaks up the vow into "simple terms". And, personally - I think this is a great request. Not knowing what type of emotions will come that day - any help is great help.

Now that the ceremony structure is completed - I've begun the Program development again. Nothing too fancy, but definitely something that reflects our entire day. Obviously, this will be the perfect place to acknowledge our wedding party, parents and guests.

Outside of the ceremony itself - we're getting closer and closer to completing the Reception Playlist...actually I should say, Eric is getting closer and closer. He's gone so far as to develop (in his mind, not completed yet) a spreadsheet of songs, artists, genre and time for DJ Ryan. I think my organization skills are rubbing off a bit too much!

Eric also received word that my wedding band has arrived. He's going to pick it up on Friday, which means we can mark that off the list as well! Therefore, all that's left (from this month) would be to complete the insurance information for our honeymoon cruise and choose the special dance songs. Eric and I will be going over the insurance information tonight (or probably tomorrow night) and decide which is best. Visiting the Caribbean in the middle of hurricane season could turn out to be a bad decision - we want to be prepared! I've made a CD for Dad to listen to and pick our Father/Daughter dance song. I'd love to have any of them - therefore, it's Dad's decision! Eric also wants his mom to pick out their Mother/Son song and is letting her choose every detail.

I must say, we've gone back on our word - okay, it was just me. Over the weekend Mom explained that she felt there was still time to send our engagement announcement to the local newspaper - even though we've been engaged for almost a year. Therefore, I've submitted our information and included a picture. For the Johnson County residents - keep your eyes open!

Order in the...Laurel Hall?!

2009-05-18T21:59:00.004-04:00

Tonight Eric and I (along with my Mom) met with Judge Barton and his wife. First of all, we formally locked up our date with the Judge, but secondly we were given an opportunity to decide upon the ceremony details. I secretly had researched the specific elements of a Christian-based ceremony already - but have no fear, that Judge Barton is a pretty good one! He, too, had a copy of a ceremony structure that is practically identical to mine. More importantly, his openness to reading some of our personal "Must Have's" couldn't be better.

We also tackled a big "issue" - his attire. I figured he'd wear a nice suit (one of which he owns) - however Mrs. Barton had other thoughts...his ROBE! Granted, it's black, BUT I'll make this one exception!

Thank you, Judge and Mrs. Barton, for inviting us into your home this evening. Again, we couldn't be more excited to have your family as part of our family on our Big Day!

Now...onto a more personal topic - I'm a few days late...but better late than never! As of last Friday, my groom has officially been accepted into Franklin College! :)

When we first started dating, Eric told me he made a promise to himself - a 10 year plan - that certain goals in his life would be accomplished. And graduating from college was at the top of the list. Six year into his "plan", he's getting married and headed towards graduating from his top college choice. (I'd also like to brag about his ACT score...but he's more modest than I am. Let's just say he kicked butt!) I couldn't be more proud of him and blessed to be the one he accomplishes this goal with. He has a passion for learning, more than anyone I've ever met. To me, Franklin College would be the lucky one - to have him as a student.

As a small side note, I am a little ahead of myself here - because no official decision has been made yet. We venture onto campus Wednesday to have several questions answered, which after he will make the decision. But I've got a pretty good feeling, things happen for a reason. :)

Reserved Packages

2009-05-13T21:19:00.006-04:00

Tonight I finally tackled a major "Must Do". I had complied the out-of-town packages for our guests weeks ago and earlier this week I finally confirmed the needed information from our last selected hotel. We've given our guests multiple options, one being a must-have. The Hilton Indianapolis North Hotel supplies a complementary shuttle to and from Laurel Hall for guests staying at their hotel. This obviously comes in handy when you have guests who know they will be drinking. We've blocked out a simple number of rooms for now, that can easily be increased if our number of guests staying at that hotel increases. On top of providing the shuttle service, they also provide the lowest room rate - talk about a win-win situation! Each hotel comes with a great review, easy highway access and great location. Therefore, Family - start bookin'!

I've started to consider what specific ceremony decorations will be needed. As mentioned previously, we've planned for a wedding arch - but very little outside of that. However, having the grounds of Laurel Hall as our backdrop - not much needs to be done! I was flipping through TheKnot's ceremony ideas and found a "Reserved" seating sign that I loved:

We've tweaked it just a little - but the concept is the same. We've opted to eliminate the personalization - keeping it simple. I think the idea is unique enough, not much needs to change.

So, of the 16 items on our 4 Month Mark - we've already accomplished 11.5 (the 1/2 being the program draft from months ago!). Pretty good if I do say so myself! :)

What a Weekend!

2009-05-11T16:30:00.014-04:00

If any weekend was at all as hectic as it set out to be, this weekend was it. For starters, yesterday was an ever-important day...Mother's Day! Happy Mother's Day to all of the Mommy's in my life - whether your children are humans or animals! And, most notably -

Mom, I know I don't say it enough - but thank you. Thank you for never giving in, or backing away, or saying no when we needed you the most. You are my strength and my pride. You are the one who holds us together, day after day. I love you.

Mamaw and Papaw (who came up from Louisville) and my Aunt MarMar (who came over from Cincinnati) were here over the weekend to celebrate my college graduation. For me, up until yesterday, I felt half-way like a college graduate - being a December Grad does that to you. But, yesterday - was the day that officially ended it all. I wasn't nervous the entire day - unless you count the moment we thought we lost Papaw in the Convention Center. I felt that yesterday was more for my parents, than it was for me. It was day they had been waiting for.

Mom and Daddy, Words cannot describe how grateful I am to have you as my parents. I hope to have made you as proud as I am. Thank you for teaching me about life and about love. I love you.

And, I couldn't talk about this weekend without mentioning how it started off. Saturday morning I had the privilege of going shopping with Amanda for her wedding dress! It was an amazing feeling being on the other end of a day like this. She is going to be a beautiful bride! Every dress she slipped into I thought she looked stunning.

Amanda, I know you had been waiting for this weekend for a long time and I'm very happy you asked me to tag along. I'm so happy you found "The One" - crazy how it all comes together when you place that order! And, remember what my card said - just relax! :)

On a small side note, late Saturday afternoon Mom, MarMar and I took Mamaw and Papaw shopping to Macy's for a few items they'll need at both weddings (my cousin Nick is getting married in July!). First of all, Mamaw needed a nice blouse to go under the two dress suits she had - and we found the perfect fit. It was such a great buy, that we bought another! We also picked out a red tie for Papaw to wear for Nick's wedding and a champagne tie to wear to ours. And, in case you're wondering - we almost lost Papaw again that afternoon...

They arrived safely...

2009-05-07T13:37:00.008-04:00

Earlier this afternoon, I swung into A Bride's Dream and picked up three packages I had been waiting "patiently" for - the bridesmaid dresses!! :) And, for some reason I was nervous. Not like, the nervousness I felt picking up my dress, but a questionable nervous. I kept thinking to myself, "What if I hate them?!", "What if they're more brown than the picture?!", "What if they ordered the wrong size?!" - basically a whole lotta what-ifs. But the moment they made their way up to the front counter my questions stopped. The word "love" doesn't even describe how perfect they turned out! The color is exactly what I wanted.

I dropped Amanda's off to her earlier this afternoon, and Dana's will be delivered sometime tomorrow. Kelly, unfortunately, has to wait to see it "in person" until a later date. MarMar is coming over (from Cincinnati) for my graduation ceremony on Sunday and will take it home with her. But, because I would hate for Kelly to wait...here it is! :)

The color doesn't quite show well through my camera, but as you can see I've strategically placed the dress next to our sage-ish wall in the house.

Kel, this is your dress - don't you love it?! :)

Of course, taking a picture of the dress also called for a small photo opportunity for someone else in this house...he's quite the camera-loving type! :)

Only - 120 days, 9 hours, 37 minutes and 41 seconds...

Cinco de Planning!

2009-05-05T14:03:00.006-04:00

Today we're not only celebrating Cinco de Mayo - but the FOUR MONTH mark until our wedding! In two words I can describe how I felt when I woke up this morning: Holy cow. Granted second to my alarm this morning, I also received a "ding" saying I had received a new email. Thank you, TheKnot, for making my morning a little bit easier! :) Outside of having to start my day early, I met with my boss to determined a tentative summer calendar for our 12 units - only to remind him that today marked "4 Months To Go" - and like all males, he seems pretty excited...not. However, his wife loves that I'm getting married and he was told to send her excitement!

Speaking of my Knot email - this month has a ton of items to fulfill! Let's get started...

(1) Compile packages for out-of-town guests with hotel reservation and city information, and mail them out. - They've been compiled, and seeing as how we were just down in Louisville, you would have thought I would have remembered to bring them with me...think again. However, they will be placed in the mail (or maybe email) by this Friday. It's at the top of the To Do List!

(2) Grooms: Give all of the groomsmen the information they need to buy and/or reserve their attire. - Clearly, for those who know our relationship really well (or just well enough), know this shouldn't read as a task for the groom...this is an Emily task - organization top to bottom. Have no fear boys, I'm sending the register number tooonight!

(3) Brides: Choose your bridesmaids' accessories and either purchase or pass along purchasing information. - My girls know that when it comes to accessories, there's no need. The dresses should be in THIS week, and after that we only need shoes - and the shoes are totally on them! Sure, I'd hope they'd share with me what they bought - and are aware that black is a no-no color - but whatever makes them comfortable is just fine!

(4) Consider specific ceremony and reception decoration needs. - Consider really isn't the right word for this tasks, but I'll live with it. The reception decorations have been considered and designed (well, sort of). For the ceremony, we've ordered white resin chairs for seating. I knew I wanted the ceremony outside immediately when I saw Laurel Hall. Since my first visit, I have changed the ceremony location, but the idea was still the same. I also know I wanted a wedding arch, but not a traditional one. Last summer Mom and I bought our "arch" that looks similar to the photograph below, and it too will include flowers (a theme among everything!).

And, for those who care to know what a resin chair look like...here you go!

(5) Brides: Experiment with your beauty routine, self-tanners and facials. - Pretty sure the routine I've used for the last 23 years is working...no need to check on that. And, I don't do self-tanners - I prefer to bake. I also don't intend on getting a facial either - despite how they make me feel after, I'd rather not live with any risks for this day! Now, a massage wouldn't hurt...

(6) Schedule portrait session if you need one for a newspaper wedding announcement. - We opted not to do the engagement announcement, but are definitely wanting to do the wedding. We've decided we will use one of the pictures taken from our engagement shoot, or the wedding. Therefore, consider this done.

(7) Brides: Make sure your attendants have purchased their dresses and accessories. - This seems kind of silly to be adding, seeing as how it noted practically the same thing up above...but...again...done! :)

(8) Pick up your invitations. - Well, I guess I could pick them up from the desk and move them to Mrs. Boshell's house...but that's about all of the pickin' that needs to be done! I'm going to take the guest list and invitations to her this afternoon.

(9) Talk to your Maids of Honor and Best Man about party plans. - I've been told that I'm not allowed to ask a single question about the bridal shower thrown by my Maids...or else. And personally, I'd rather not have Kindie and Raikkon come after me.

(10) Get anything you need for your international honeymoon (passport, birth certificate, vaccinations, etc.). - As I wrote this, chills came up my spine...I'm praying that we're up on our vaccinations - I can't stand needles! Now, when it says "Get anything", to me I read that differently. Our passports arrived and are looking pretty - but we are in need of a few items regarding our honeymoon. First of all, only two VERY small payments left to go! Secondly, we need to include our insurance. Eric and I are fully aware that we've decided to head to the Caribbean in the middle of hurricane season, and the Good Lord promised me in my prayers that nothing will happen. But, just as a precaution - insurance is a must! And, third - Eric's SPF.

(11) Brides: Buy any special lingerie your gown requires in time for the first fittings. - Me and my lingerie will not be spoken of on this wedding blog.

(12) Grooms: If you are renting a tux, visit the formalwear shop to get measured. - (At Men's Warehouse, this has to be done before the register number even exists!) Please refer to May 3rd.

(13) Create song play and do not play lists. - Eric has this one under control...or so I'm being told. Let's just hope he hasn't forgotten a few of my favorites.

(14) Select first dance and other special dance songs. - Our first dance song was selected a while ago. I even thought about using it as the song for our Wedding Website, but opted not to share it as a bit of surprise. The Father/Daughter and Mother/Son songs have yet to be decided upon. This is a choice we're letting the two of them (my dad and his mom) decide - it will mean the most to them.

(15) Order wedding rings. - We've had Eric's for several months now, mine is a different story. My parents keep talking about the prices we'll save when we go on our cruise, but there's something about having the one I will wear forever at the ceremony that means the most. We've visited several jewelery locations and have one we like alot with a pretty good price - and an even better price after this weekend!

And, finally -

(16) Draft wedding program information. - I've fiddled around with several styles, but will probably erase all of those and start over after talking with Judge Barton. Like the wedding invitations - we'll be designing these ourselves. More on that later...

I told you - this month is CRAZY! :)

20 Minutes, TOPS

2009-05-03T11:03:00.003-04:00

Yesterday Eric and I took a trip down to Louisville to celebrate the Kentucky Derby and John's graduation - and despite John's college accomplishments, Mind That Bird was the impressive one! However, traveling yesterday didn't stop us from a little tuxedo fitting Friday night. Of course, I was completely aware that this is the heart of Prom Season and the stores are packed with high schoolers and their dreamy prom ideas - but this was something I kept as my little secret...we really needed to get Eric fitted.

We walked through the Mall realizing, that was not an option - I suggested we try the Men's Warehouse store. I never noticed it until now, but we have three Men's Warehouse stores within a mile of each other! The one inside the Mall and outside the Mall (by Panera for the Greenwood-ers who read this...) are tuxedo shops only, the one across US-31 (by Uncle Bill's) would be the retail store. Let's just say, my planning couldn't have been better! We were in-and-out in 20 minutes, TOPS. The lady who helped us was direct and to-the-point, just the way we like 'em! She gave us the register number (that the guys will need when they go to get fitted), coupons and a funny story about my brother's prom tuxedo fitting - all in the blink of an eye. After an icecream stop, and a run-in with Neil and Amanda, it was quite the evening of accomplishments!

I spoke with Mrs. Boshell Friday night and made arrangements to bring the wedding invitations over sometime this week. I also made the request for brown calligraphy ink - which she kindly agreed to. Have I told you she's the best?!

We've (well, Mom placed them in the dishwasher) washed the table arrangement vases and are ready to begin putting them all together - just three weeks behind Mom's original schedule...however, she's currently outside planting flowers in front of the house. She asked that I bring her a glass of water - which I got caught up in reading our neighbor's (who moved to Belgium) blog that I kinda, sorta, might have forgotten her request. After she poked her head inside the front door and begged for her water, as if she was in the middle of the Sahara Desert, I walked outside to help her quench her thirst. Only to have her ask for a straw and three ibuprofen. Being Miss Smarty that I tend to be, I asked her why she needed the medication...her response, "My back hurts! I'm doing this [planting the flowers] for your wedding!" Funny how it always turns back to the wedding...

Hello, Mr. DJ!

2009-04-28T21:13:00.002-04:00

Tonight Eric and I met DJ Ryan to discuss the flow of our reception. I brought along my lovely Bride Binder (Laurel Hall pictures included...) to help explain what I could about our location and what we're looking for. Ryan and I had spoken over the phone and through emails several times before; therefore, he had a pretty good idea about our style and our personalities. We came prepared...for what was needed at this point...with the first page of the Reception Planner completed.

Now, we have three short months to gather a list of songs that we want to have played. Immediately when we stepped into the car, Eric grabbed hold of the song list task and proclaimed it his own! Which, knowing my own music taste, I'm sure our guests will be pleased. He already has in mind certain types of music to play throughout the reception. One of the top reasons we chose theSimpleDJ was the ability to customize what we want to hear played. And, unfortunately "The Chicken Dance" will not be included.

Ryan did bring up several key items that will be completed over the next month, specifically including the Reception Timeline. Eric and I agreed that a timeline is completely necessary from the moment our day starts, up until the moment I walk down the aisle - but from the moment we walk back down as Husband & Wife, it's fair game. Don't get me wrong, we definitely what a desired schedule - but making sure everything happens on the exact second just won't be necessary.

Ryan - we couldn't be more excited to have you (and your wife!) as part of our Big Day! :)

-

Because I felt like updating you on how our evening went - I opted to push the final touches of the invitations off until tomorrow night. Not sure why I even told myself tonight would be the best time - knowing tomorrow is my open evening for the week! Tomorrow night I'm also planning to send an email to my Maids of Honor and my aunts - who have kindly offered to throw my bridal showers! For convenience, my Aunt Maria and Anita have offered to throw a bridal shower for me in Louisville the first weekend of August (for everyone who lives in Louisville - or the surrounding areas). My Indy Shower, provided by my lovely Maids, is yet to be scheduled, but a guest list is always needed...plus, my checklist says to do so!

Lookin' Pretty

2009-04-27T16:00:00.005-04:00

I arrived safely home from Atlanta this weekend and was immediately thrown back into how much we need to accomplish! This week is a packed one, hands deep in my love affair with HR :), CG Lassie League draft and wedding-talk. Tuesday we are headed to meet with our DJ (and his wife, I believe) to discuss our Reception Planner. Looking over the Reception Planner this afternoon - we have alot of work to get done in 24 hours!

This afternoon, I was able to finish up the phone calls to several hotels around our area. For those who will be receiving my lovely letter - please note the font colors! :) I'm still working out the kinks regarding the shuttle to-and-from Laurel Hall with one hotel; however, knowing that we do have family members interested in staying - this really shouldn't be a problem.

After a few phone calls, Eric has chosen a tuxedo rental location! Granted, the final decision was the original decision - but a decision nonetheless. He's going sometime this week to register and have his measurements taken...once he's done, the rest of the boys may follow. Men's Warehouse was the best choice for multiple reasons, but primarily price and location. With Dan (Eric's brother and Best Man) living on the northside of Indianapolis, it gives him the ability to have his measurements taken and return the tuxedo closest to his home. At the end of the day, The Guys will look preeeety good is this:

Unfortunately, because this week is scattered with priorities (not to mention Eric's finals are right around the corner!), it looks like next week is going to be the best option to meet with Judge Barton.

Sometime this week - I'm sure it will be tomorrow night during Idol, I will put the final touches on the invitation. After that, they're crossing the backyard grass to Mrs. Boshell for her lovely calligraphy skills! As for a flower update: Mom requested that I bring up another Wedding Box from the basement today, to help push her along with the table arrangements. What she didn't realize was that I'm not Muscle Woman (despite what you may think!) and I need a little help...from my groom, who has pushed himself away to be Mr. Studious. The box will make it upstairs tonight - promise.

Outside of meeting with Judge Barton, our "5 Months To Go" list is lookin' pretty good! On a funnier note (relating to my post from last week), yesterday Eric was working on his computer when he looked up and said, "132 days to go!" I immediately thought to myself, "Yes! He's counting, too!" Of course, when I actually turned to him and said, "I know!" (in my gleeful-wedding talk voice), his comment back was, "Oh, yes - our wedding, too." I then realized he was visiting the Texas Longhorns football website...and was counting down the days before football starts. How sweet.

Change of Plans

2009-04-20T16:09:00.005-04:00

Well, it looks like I spoke too early. Unfortunately this Saturday we will not be making it to the tuxedo rental locations. For one (the minor reason of the two) I won't be arriving back from Atlanta until Saturday morning-ish, but more importantly - the NFL Draft is Saturday. Heaven forbid our wedding interfere with something relating to football! I'm sure you're wondering why I'm so at ease with the "push back" decision - let's just remember that our Big Day also happens to be opening day of college football. In Eric's eyes - he's already compromised.

I've emailed DJ Ryan and we're scheduled to meet with him next Tuesday to begin the Reception Planner. I'm guessing that between now and the scheduled date, Eric and I should come up with a name for our style of music. Which for those who don't know - it's quite the opposite between the two! I have made the demand (hint: not the request, the demand) that two songs (outside of The Dance songs) be played: (1) my favorite Jessica Simpson song, (2) "Don't Go" by Miley and Billy Ray Cyrus - a duet between myself and my mother. For those who are questioning our singing talents, don't - we've been practicing!

I can tell Mom is wanting to begin the table arrangements, only because the giant green box with the "Wedding" label has been moved from downstairs to the dining room. She means serious business now. Let's just hope she doesn't whip out the card table!

Oh - and just so you're aware...I was told today that I would be receiving my business cards shortly. I then kindly reminded them not to order too many - in just 20 weeks I'll be a married woman, whose last name won't be recognized as spelled wrong in the Spell Check Dictionary! :)

Crunch Time & Presents

2009-04-19T21:13:00.002-04:00

According to my previous post's lovely Comment Box, I'm apparently not sharing enough. Which leads me to explain myself...I've been busy! Starting a new job kind of became important! However, I know I can only hold onto that excuse for the next couple of days. May is a BIG month, checklist wise - but right now we have a few items that need to be tackled before April (and its showers!) ends.

Of course the top three "tasks" we made for ourselves at the beginning of the month have yet to be accomplished. Regarding Judge Barton - I'm sending out an email tomorrow to schedule the best time to meet with him. We're probably looking at another week before we get an opportunity to meet, but better late than never. I refuse to let April go by without speaking with Judge Barton - refuse. Next on the "Not Done List" would be the appointment with DJ Ryan - again, we're looking to another week before we setup a date. And, finally - the tux rental! Now that my weekends are officially free, I'm hoping this Saturday/Sunday we're able to make the final decision. It's crunch time and I might just be freaking out!

On better news - Thursday we opened the mailbox and found a special present for each of us! :) Our passports arrived! This means we're just one step closer to a pretty cool vacation, not to mention this bride's trip next June! Granted, Eric didn't quite see the excitement in this this soon-to-be-husband-and-wife moment as I did...but I won't hold it against him.

Now, outside of announcing the scheduled appointments, this next week may be just as slow as the last - but please, pretty please, let it slide! :) We have 139 days to and so much to do!

Saying Something

2009-04-15T21:59:00.007-04:00

Because I was told that my "bloggity-blog-blog-BLOG" was lacking from an update, now is a better time than ever to fill you in! :) First of all, not much has really taken place since the grand invitation assemble, but an update is an update.

I'll first begin with an expression of excitement! Earlier this week, I was comparing prices between our registries...and...just happened to notice...we have "fulfilled" gifts! Obviously, whomever our lovely gift-giver is, we thank you from the bottom of our heart! Sticking with the registry, this evening we made an update on a few additional items. Now, don't get ahead of yourself - these are items we were going to add, just weren't exactly sure what we looking for. Plus, after walking through Bed, Bath & Beyond for the millionth time, we determined (for the master bathroom) we preferred their bronze collection ensemble versus Target's. Therefore, it's updated and complete.

This weekend, while Eric is presenting his speech on bottled water, I will be swinging into the tux shops determining which has the best price. We are certain that the chocolate tux is at our chosen locations, but not so much regarding the vest. However, Eric's willing to work with whatever options.

Mom has completed the boutonnieres and is wanting to begin on the table centerpieces soon. But, we're headed into the second week since she expressed her "wanting", and we've yet to start - more like, she's yet to start. I've learned never to rush The Florist.

We're still waiting to hear back from DJ Ryan with potential dates for our Reception Planner chat. Seeing as how my new job is taking me to Atlanta next week, it may be another week or two before we find the right time - which is fine by us! And, finally - we're patiently awaiting the arrival of five VERY important items...two passports and three bridesmaid dresses!

...I've been told that when I think I don't have anything to say, I still find a way to say something! :)

Coming Together

2009-04-08T22:20:00.004-04:00

To elaborate more off of my brief update earlier - as of this evening the following items have been accomplished, and by accomplished I mean printed/assembled: (a) the wedding invitation cards, (b) the response cards, (c) the response card envelopes, and (d) the directions cards. Meaning, the entire wedding invitation set is very close to being complete. The only items left are to label inner envelope and address (and stamp) the outer envelope - which will be held off until the later date.

Eric was quite the helpful groom this evening sticking the double-sided stickers (I don't quite know what they're called) to the back of the invitation cards. I then properly attached the cards to the inner envelopes. I also went ahead and put a stamp on the response card envelopes for kicks-and-giggles. Mom is going to swing by the post office to have the entire invitation weighed, just so that we aren't hit with extra postage the day we plan to send them out.

I'm sure you're questioning why I chose to print the invitations so early - and really it only stems from one thing, and one thing only...if I didn't I keep changing my mind! :)

Printing Away

2009-04-08T17:43:00.002-04:00

Just a brief - and by brief, I'm serious this time - update...

Currently, as I type (and as you read), I'm printing the wedding invitations! :) There's no going back now! Have I told you how great they're turning out?!

OK, back to work - I've got deadlines to meet...

Busy Day

2009-04-06T21:54:00.005-04:00

Today I was able to accomplish a few of the "April To-Do" items. In fact, I'm actually very impressed with myself! :)

First of all, we booked our hotel room for the wedding night. After taking a look at several hotels in downtown Indianapolis, we chose the Omni Severin Hotel - and with a great room rate, we booked it immediately. We did choose to stay small with the room, seeing as how the next morning we'll be up and ready for the Sunday Brunch and then the real fun begins on the honeymoon! The Omni is one of the most historic wedding locations in downtown Indianapolis - just one connection we liked the most.

Secondly, I finally gathered hotel locations, contact information and room rates for our guests who will be traveling to Indianapolis. Outside from the contact information and pricing, I've also included the distances to-and-from my house, and to-and-from Laurel Hall...I have a feeling that may be a deciding factor for some of our guests! I looked online for the room rates; therefore, my plan for tomorrow is to call the locations and speak with the Sales Managers to make sure the information I provide is up-to-date. I then will update my wonderful document, create a cute, little letter to go along and send them off to our families and friends.

Tomorrow, Mom and I are headed out to run some errands - one which includes swinging into Michael's to return the invitation set and then repurchase it. However, tonight I was able to save the created templates into Word for easy printing. I love how they look!

After the invitations, next up includes a visit to Laurel Hall with Nicole and Dan, tux fittings and meeting with our officiant. It's only the first full week of April and we're already chopping away at the checklist! :)

In just 153 days...

2009-04-05T20:04:00.003-04:00

...we'll be MARRIED!

Today has been a GREAT day, minus the rain - but really that hasn't been too bad either. Not only did I wake up this morning with a decision on a new job, but with an email titled, "5 Months To Go". That's a pretty good feeling...

Therefore, without further ado, a look into what we've accomplished and what we have yet to do...

- Decide on and meet with your officiant to discuss ceremony structure.
We've stalled on this way too many times, which means this has jumped to the top of the April List.

- Book reception band or DJ, sign the contract and send a deposit.
Check! Check! Check! #2 for our April List: Meet and begin working on Ryan's Reception Planner.

- Book a calligrapher (if you are using one).
That would be a "Yes, we are!" and a "Check!". Mrs. Boshell has kindly offered her talents and I think she's even happier that we're such a small number, versus the last 250 invitations she addressed. Plus, living behind us - I mean, you couldn't ask for better neighbor's than the Carricos! :)

- Grooms: Start looking to buy or rent your tux, suit or other formal attire.
The start has already been accomplished - therefore, we'll count this one as done as well.

- Grooms: Start planning your groomsmen's attire.
Not quite sure there's a difference between this one and the last, but sure - the planning has been planned. Eric still wants to look at one other tuxedo rental location, but obviously this will be accomplished this month...perfect timing, heading into prom season...

- Book the hotel room for your wedding night.
I've started to look at the different selections, and we'd definitely like to go some place other than home - however, we aren't super picky, seeing as how we'll be driving back down to Greenwood for the Sunday Brunch - to wish those who traveled a BIG thank you and safe trip home. Again, this is something we'll work on this month, but really it's no where close to the top.

- Compile packages for out-of-town guests with hotel reservation and city information, and mail them out.
Ah, another must do. A couple of weeks ago Mom sent out an email asking if anyone had hotel preferences, and it looks like everyone is right on track. We'll be sending several options, with full details - I don't know how to provide anything less!

- Grooms: Decide on your groomsmen's attire.
Didn't we discuss this already?! The Knot really needs to proofread...I know of just the girl! :)

- Book your honeymoon flights and make all your other travel reservations.
We really didn't wait on this one! We're just two months away from having the entire trip (minus the travel insurance) paid for! I think every conversation we have is about how excited we are. Which reminds me, I should start stocking up on the SPF 30 for my groom! :)
(Editor's Note: I just reread this aloud to Eric, he wanted me to note that he'd prefer SPF 45 or the Baby SPF 55...yeah, he's a true winner.)

As for a few more items, (1) Friday night Mom and I (well, Mom really - I was chatting with MarMar on the phone!) finished up the wreaths, which look amazing! We also tackled half of the boutonnieres. After wrapping those up, we're on to the table arrangements. (2) When I purchased the new invitations (for 40% off), I received a 50% off coupon - therefore, I've waited to start printing the invitations, so that I can return and rebuy them. I have been on the website to design the look, which really was the hardest part. I'm very excited to finally put everything together - especially finding exactly what we were looking for! And finally - but very important, nonetheless - the girls' dresses should arrive at the end of the month! I cannot wait to see the final look. I'm pretty sure I couldn't have picked three more beautiful women to wear such a pretty dress!

According to The Knot, we have 184 items left to accomplish - but first, I have to clean my room. According to my father, I'm not allowed to get married until it's done! :)

Fiddlin' Around

2009-03-30T19:55:00.002-04:00

This past weekend, Mom fiddled around with her flower supplies and came to the idea that the wreaths needed something extra. She used some of the greenery she had and placed it sporadically around the glued flowers. I loved how it made the wreath appear to be fuller than it really was and gave it some much-needed depth. Therefore, tonight we drove over to Michael's and couldn't find what we were looking for. We then ran into The Flower Factory and found what could have worked, but opted not to purchase it just yet (with their whole "no return policy" we didn't want to catch ourselves liking something better). Our final stop was Hobby Lobby - where at first we didn't see anything big enough. Mom was going for the ivy-looking greenery, but I'm not a big fan of the ivy-looking leaves. I did stumble across something leafy-looking that has the fall colors and isn't completely noticeable when placed in the wreath. After a night of driving around - another Mother & Bride mission accomplished!

Which leads me to my other news...we've changed the invitations...again...for the millionth time. :) While in Michael's I took a look down the bridal isle and stumbled across a Do-It-Yourself invitation set that had everything I was trying to make - the chocolate brown color, the ivory mat, the inner and outer envelope - basically exactly what I wish I had seen before. Therefore, after calculating what the price is per invitation (and with two 40% off coupons!), I made the purchase and am super excited. I'm so happy I hadn't started printing the previous design! Even Eric agreed - after rolling his eyes and reminding me how I had promised not to look at any other invitations! - the design has a much more traditional, put-together feel.

This week, like last, is extremely busy for the both of us! Within the next two weeks we're hoping to find an afternoon where we can take Nicole and Dan to visit Laurel Hall, and then meet with Ryan (from theSimpleDJ) to begin planning our Reception Planner - both of which I'm very excited for. We also haven't had a chance to visit the local hotels for our guests, but I have been online to view certain locations and prices - but we'd definitely like to block the rooms soon!

It's a crazy feeling to be days from saying our wedding is in FIVE months...

March + Must-Dos = Done!

2009-03-23T21:22:00.006-04:00

Eric and I fulfilled our March Must-Do List just in time! Today we were able to swing into the Post Office and submit our application for our passports - meaning...our honeymoon is that much closer! Of course, my entire thinking was based on the "six to eight weeks" I was told it takes to receive the passports, but the Post Office Lady loved us so much that she said it should only take about three. We both were a little thrown off about giving our birth certificates away (even with being told they would make it safely back to us), but at the end of the day - we're happy it's taken care of! And, even better news - the pictures (for the passport books) look great, too.

Mom and I were able to start on the wreaths tonight as well. I should mention that when I say "Mom and I" it really was just Mom. However, I helped by handing her the colors she needed...while couch-coaching my Wildcats to a win! I love how the wreaths turned out, but can tell Mom is a little apprehensive about them. I think she'll settle into them more once she "fiddles with them later". We've hit a small bump in our counting process, which we'll take care of down the road. I'm not too worried at this point - I've seen how she works her magic under pressure!

Tomorrow I'm hoping to start printing out the design for the wedding invitations. I'm hoping to put together a sample and then start making the final copies over the next few days. I'd love to have these taken care of and ready for Connie (our wonderful calligraphy artist...OK, she's just our neighbor!) to address at her own pace.

I took a sneak peak at our Wedding Checklist for the next month - and it's packed with Groom tasks - which on top of finals, Eric should have loads of fun! :) Hopefully I'll be able to treat him with a nice round of golf and a few beers to calm him down! Because we did so well with this month's "Must-Dos", we'll at least have a few to tackle once we reach the next mark.

Overachievers

2009-03-16T23:10:00.008-04:00

Well, we survived the afternoon! OK, it really wasn't that bad - in fact, it went even better than we hoped. We both determined that visiting Bed, Bath & Beyond, Target and Kohl's beforehand was the key to our registry success. I felt Target was a much more comfortable "experience", really not bombarding us with loads of details, allowed us to roam ourselves. Bed, Bath & Beyond was much more in front, asking us lots of questions (specifically whether or not we had registered somewhere else...) and at times it felt like someone was constantly following us around the store. Either way, we weren't there for them - we were there for the wedding!

We did stumble across the Doggy Steps at Bed, Bath & Beyond, which could come in handy as Hobbes gets older. We have a feeling that one day, he isn't going to be able to make the leap onto the bed...yes, he sleeps in a human bed (oh, and keep in mind - the reason we opted for the king-sized bed, was because of Hobbes and his bed-hogging skills...). Eric told me no one would even think of that as a wedding gift, and I explained to him that his "no one" would be Amanda! She'll put puppies before grown-ups any day!

Of course, immediately when we came home I updated our Wedding Website, which now holds the links to our registries. And, as you can already tell - I've updated the sidebar on this fine blog, too! :) It's all about consistency here, people. We did end up sticking just with Bed, Bath & Beyond and Target, and are completely satisfied - after I hunt down the Iced Tea Makers...

-

Today was also filled with more great news! The DJ I had mentioned yesterday called this evening and is open for our date and has us booked! After answering some of my questions, I knew instantly we had found what we were looking for. Ryan, from theSimpleDJ, and his wife will be our entertainment for the evening. He even mentioned that the month after our wedding, he'll be headed back to Laurel Hall for another. He sent me the contract this evening, which I intend to read over sometime tomorrow and get to him by the end of the week. We're hoping to get together within the next few weeks to start our "Reception Planner" for the reception. He was extremely helpful, talking me through all that he has to offer and if I wanted something different than his "normal" he had no problem stepping out of the way.

Of course, Ryan did ask how I came across his company. I explained my miserable path so far, and how I couldn't find that one guy (or gal) who matched exactly what we were looking for. Therefore, late one night I opted for my millionth Google search and typed in "Simple DJ Indianapolis" - and there he popped up. That's why I keep saying he's exactly what I was looking for!

Therefore, in just one day, Eric and I have accomplished two of the three "Top Priorities" for this month! I know, we're overachievers...

Invitations, a DJ, Drinks & Our Registry

2009-03-15T22:19:00.006-04:00

A few weeks, maybe even a month or two ago, I wrote about how we had agreed on a wedding invitation design. And, for those who really know me - you should have known that sticking to that design wasn't going to last. I'm usually never this indecisive, but when it comes to something so set-in-stone like our wedding, I just want everything to be perfect. I ventured back to Wedding Paper Divas, which is who created our Save-the-Dates and searched around at some of their designs. I actually found one I loved, but couldn't figure out how to create it myself and match our colors. I've since recommended it to Amanda - hey, if I can't have it myself, there's no need not to share - besides, it matches her colors much better!

I was able to find a design model that I loved almost just as much. I flipped through the clipart designs I have, and after a few of our own additions...we've found it! And, I know you won't be disappointed - not that you would have with the others, either. I think we've done just enough on this version to make it original and not-so boring, but not over-cluttering the paper. Of course, Eric has made me promise that I will not even think about looking at other invitations. He made the comment that I'll be changing it for the next five months at the pace I'm headed...

-

After a few discussions we determined a DJ budget - I know, what a relief, right?! I researched as many DJs as I could located around Indianapolis - coming to understand that there's really not a set price DJs use. I also looked into the prices for renting the equipment and using an iPod, which mind you isn't much cheaper, like $150 or less. My only thought against renting just the equipment, was not having the extra entertainer announcing some of the most important moments of the night - like, when the bar closes, as well as our first dance and the cutting of the cake! Of all of the DJs I spoke with, one was my absolute favorite. His personality is perfect - simple, easy and the least expensive of the bunch! I'm hoping to catch up with him sometime early this week - after that, we'll start to work out the details. I really can't explain how much of a lift off my shoulders finding this guy is. Just crossing my fingers he hasn't been booked for our date since I last spoke with him!

-

Last night Eric and I had dinner with Mom and Dad, and despite Dad cracking us all up with his non-stop chatting the entire car ride, we were able to take care of some "minor" items. For instance, Mom and I were able to find the cake topper "thing" we were looking for. Mom is going to make a flower arrangement on top, versus Dad's idea of painting a bride and groom, and needed something to place the flowers on. We were also able to check out the prices of soft drinks, beer and wine at Sam's Club. We can't start purchasing them just yet - unless our guests wouldn't mind having expired soft drinks and stale beer. We're looking closer to May before purchasing the bulk.

-

And, finally tomorrow we're headed out to create our registry! Tonight I even walked through "The Plan" with Eric, reminding him of when and where we need to go. Many would think this is my obsessive detail-oriented disorder, but really - with the two of us, something like this could take more hours than a day holds! If we aren't back by dinnertime...send someone after us! :)

Homework?

2009-03-12T17:28:00.005-04:00

It looks like someone within this relationship decided he wanted to postpone registering for our wedding gifts until next week. Get this, his excuse to me was: He has "homework". Geez, what a nerd!

So, I'm blowing this out of proportion, but honestly I was (and I still am) a little excited about registering. Outside of our Save-the-Dates (OK, and our Wedding Website and this silly blog) not much has been announced about our wedding. However, I have to say - he is one smart cookie when it comes to class, so why hold him back? I did reason with him, after throwing a few guilt tricks (which, mind you, didn't work at all), that early next week - maybe even Sunday - is fine, just absolutely no later.

I told myself that there were three things that HAD to be done this month, no exceptions: (1) Register for wedding gifts, and you can see how that's going. (2) Apply for our passports, I'll make an update shortly. And (3) Book a DJ! The passports will most likely be done next week as well. I've researched what we need and where to go. Tonight I'm planning to use the online application form to bring with us. As a reminder, we did this once already - too bad we waited past the 10 day-deadline. As for the DJ, I've been in contact with several and have found what seems to be our route - although, I'm still waiting for my lovely parents to give me a figure to work off of.

So for now, we're working on a whole-lotta nothin'...but, in the meantime, do you like the new design?!

Sunny, cool.

2009-03-09T22:13:00.005-04:00

From day one, I told myself that I would never mention the "R" word...you know, it rhymes with "gain" and involves water falling from the sky. I've always had it in my mind that if it's September 5th and Mother Nature decides not to be my friend, then we have backup (the third-floor chapel at Laurel Hall) - but until then, no one speaks of the "R" word and we continue on without evening questioning the decision to have an outdoor ceremony.

However, tonight - after Eric and I were done "pre-registering" (yes, we window-shopped the stores we liked, it's making it easier for us until later this week when we actually are handed the scanner!) at Target - Eric forced me along to the book section. OK - force is a bit strong, but I was on a mission to continue to look at towels and bathroom decor, and he was done with it. As Eric was looking around, I aimed straight for the gossip magazines (as always) and found the Farmer's Almanac for 2009. Of course, I instantly flipped to the weather, heading straight for Section 6 (which included Indianapolis).

Ladies and gentlemen...this is what I read:

SEPT. 2009: Temp. 62 degrees (1 degree below avg.), Precip. 2" (1.5" below avg.) 1-3 Scattered t-storms, hot. 4-9 Sunny, cool. 10-16 Scattered t-storms, warm. 17-34 Showers, then sunny, cool. 25-27 T-storms, then sunny. 26-30 Showers, chilly.

Yes, that would be word-for-word...and, no I did not purchase the book, it's not within our budget - instead, I took a picture with my lovely camera-phone and squinted while typing it above! For your convenience, I've gone ahead and highlighted the most important part: "4-9 Sunny, cool." Which includes Saturday, September 5th - See...no need to even mention the "R" word! :)

Celebrate!

2009-03-07T10:30:00.003-05:00

Of course last night I kept myself awake until 12:01am, just so that I could send Kelly a text message wishing her a HAPPY BIRTHDAY! And, for a moment - it felt like she wasn't going to respond with a polite "Thank You!" (which is surprising for a girl who never puts her phone down!), but just a few short minutes later - there it came!

Kel, I hope your birthday is better than the last, but not as much fun as the next! :) You deserve nothing but the best and to celebrate as long as you like! I miss you, like crazy.

Love, Em

P.S. Try to keep MarMar out of trouble while she's visiting! :)

Half Way There

2009-03-05T19:26:00.007-05:00

It's hard to believe that in six short months, Eric and I will be married! It's definitely an exciting feeling, a feeling of things starting to fall into place - but also a nervous feeling, a feeling of "not enough time" and "too much time" all at once. Just the other day, I sat down and re-read my entire blog - more because I was bored, but also to just see how far we really have come and how much further we have to go!

Therefore, as we knock off one month and move on to another, it's time for an updated Checklist! (Please keep in mind, I've decided to update you on a few additional details from the previous month as well!)

Last Month's Updates
* Decide on and meet with your officiant to discuss ceremony structure.
Mom spoke with Mr. Barton's wife over the weekend. We are going to set up a time to sit down and walk through a few items. I couldn't think of anyone better than Mr. Barton - him having known our family for so many years.

* Book reception band or DJ, sign the contract, and send a deposit.
I've finally narrowed the choices down, and am working on a time frame to meet with a few of them. Then again, if only my parents could make up their mind about a budget for a DJ - I could move a lot faster!

* Register for your wedding gifts.
Looking back, I'm pretty sure I never mentioned the "pre-register adventure" Eric and I took last week! OK, it wasn't that bad - in fact, we accomplished a lot. We stopped in at Kohl's and Bed, Bath & Beyond. We found a few color schemes and patterns we like a lot, and then some we hated. We've also determined what type of items we're going to choose from which store, including Target. Finalizing the registry (well, actually signing up for it!) will be taken care of by the end of the month - promise!

* Start planning the rehearsal dinner.
After a few bumps in the road, we've determined that we want to have a low-key event, held here at my house - using the backyard and deck. We've also decided it will be held on the traditional evening-before, as a way to relax after an exhausting day of decorations and preparation. The menu and such is yet to be determined, but at least we're further than we were! :) Eric and I are excited to bounce off ideas regarding the menu with his mom. Almost every weekend from the time the weather gets warmer to the time it stops, Betsy and Bob are inviting us out for a backyard cookout - I'd love to keep it casual, but with our own little flair.

6 Months To Go!
* Groom: Decide on what style of formal-wear you will be wearing. Start looking to buy or rent the formal attire.
Done, well all but booking. Eric's registered at Men's Wearhouse, but I want to check out S&K Menswear before making the final decision. However, for the most part - you can knock this one off the list!

* Reserve tables, chairs and/or other rental equipment.
Taken care of! Laurel Hall provides an enormous amount of tables and chairs - and, CRG is doing a fabulous job, partnering with A Classic Party Rental to rent the tablecloths, napkins and chair covers.

* Book rehearsal-dinner site.
As previously mentioned above, we're not looking to take our dinner anywhere but home. Our entire weekend is built upon our family and close friends - that's been the most important part to us.

* Book day of transportation for the bride, groom and bridal party.
This is completely up in-the-air. Regarding the transportation from our house to Laurel Hall - we've got a chauffeur, and she's been my chauffeur for years (Mom, Did I tell you I signed you up for this?!). Oh, and same thing for the guys - just this time, Mom won't be involved. As Eric will tell you, I've given him one rule for Saturday, September 5th - Don't be late...how he gets there is completely up to him! :)

* Reserve a hotel room for your wedding night.
We're waiting for a few extra pieces to fall into place before jumping into renting the hotel room. I've started researching prices and plans, but haven't selected the place just yet.

* If necessary, update passports.
Heck yeah, it's necessary! :) A few months ago we completed the online application packet to obtain passports, and by the time we had a free afternoon to head over to the post office for finalization, we surpassed the "You have 10 days from printing." period. Whoops. Either way, This will be taken care of by the end of the month!

-

On a separate note, when you fall asleep tonight - say an extra prayer for Amanda and her family. On Tuesday, they made the unfortunate decision to let Oso go home - just this time, not with them - but to Heaven. Oso had an amazing spirit and truly was a dog who showed how much he loved his family. He was Randy's best friend, and - outside of his amazing wife - was his better half. For me, I haven't known the Arnolds without Oso.

To Randy, Kathy, Amy & Amanda - I promise you, he's watching you from Heaven.

Mission Crafts: Mom & Bride

2009-03-01T21:55:00.009-05:00

(I first want to point out that, with the title of this post, I was hoping to go for the whole "Mission Impossible" theme...hint "Mission Crafts". Please keep in mind that my imagination doesn't always match up with everyone else.)

From the beginning, I've always pictured my bouquet having something a little different than the girls'. Not only will my bouquet be slightly bigger than the other three, but I've finally come up with the way to make it stand out!

What you'll want to keep an eye on is the lace wrapped around the handle of the bouquet. All of the flowers used during the wedding will be silk flowers, put together by my florist - aka: MOM. Mom came up with the idea to wrap the bouquet in a sage ribbon that we found at a craft store for 50 cents! All four bouquets will be wrapped in the same ribbon; however for mine, over the top of the sage will be lace material to bring in the vintage, romantic look.

To stick with the crafty ideas...while on their cruise two years ago Mom and Barb walked into a tablecloth store and saw bride and groom outfits for wine bottles. Mom loved them, but opted not to pick them up. Figures when they headed back down this year, the store only had a groom - which she bought. It's adorable! So, we went on a hunt to "find the groom his bride". We stopped in at JoAnn Fabrics to find some material and a pattern, hoping we'd come up with something to help us make it ourselves. Then Mom decided to use her newly founded Google skills and came across several online sets that are cheaper to buy than make. This picture is not the exact one we're looking to order, but to give you a better idea - they'll lay something like this, veil and all...

While Mom and I were on our crafty mission, we made a quick stop into the new Christmas Tree Shoppes, first hoping to see Christmas trees, which - mind you - they have none out on display! But I was able to find the cardholder we'll use on the gift table. I wanted something "non-traditional" for this - and really wanted to avoid the whole "wedding cake box". Because of all the spring items were out, plenty of flower pots were scattered all over the store. I stumbled across an antique-looking bicycle flower pot holder that is the perfect size for cards. Mom figured she could decorate the outside with leftover flowers and ribbon and agreed that it was better than our other ideas. Plus, with a sale tag of $6.99 - I couldn't pass it up! :)

-

On a side note - in just a few days, Eric and I will hit the "6 Months To Go" mark...which made me think. We've been engaged for 9 months! Oh, how time flies when you're having fun! :)

Making Progress

2009-02-25T23:16:00.005-05:00

We've started to make some progress with the DJ situation. I enlisted the help of Facebook and sent out a message to a few girls from high school and college who have recently celebrated their wedding. I figured, maybe we could come up with some local names that were hidden gems. So far, I've gotten some great and not so great responses. It always seems like either you loved your DJ or you hated them - whether it's being able to contact them prior to the actual event or attitude, entertainment, who knows what.

I stressed to the girls about the "little flare" event we're pushing for and have gotten several recommendations. I've started to contact just a few that caught my eye and have received several emails back. I also started to read several articles about what really is a national average towards the cost of a wedding DJ. And, found that it's a pretty big range. According to the American Disc Jockey Association, DJ services range from $100 to $300, per hour. The article goes on to say that typical wedding DJ packages should include planning consultation (OK, I can live with that), music list customization (obviously a must, Jessica will be played!), multiple tray CD players, a minimum of one audio mixer and one microphone (not sure what an "audio mixer" is, but a microphone is another must), at least four hours of music (exactly what we're aiming for), plus set-up and tear-down time - all of which make perfect sense.

I then continued to read on about ways to gather discounts and cuts on the price. And, figures, it tells me what I already know. "Cut back on the lights, camera, action feel." See, I'm not completely crazy when I speak! They also suggested having the event on a weekday for additional discounts - which clearly does not fit in with our Saturday evening reception. But, when it does come to price - I have contacted several that are very below the $950-1,000 price tag!

We're planning to pick the top two or three we like the most, and sit down with them, get a feel for their personality in person. After that, we hope to have an answer. Obviously my attitude has changed about the entire DJ search and it can only get better from here. Thanks to Angie, for reminding me how beneficial Facebook really can be! :)

...And...for an even better topic today...with a drum roll, please...Happy Birthday, Dad! :)

25 Years and Counting

2009-02-24T12:44:00.031-05:00

Twenty-five years ago today, my parents celebrated the single-most important day of their lives...OK, second-most important day, obviously my birth was pretty important! :) Either way, today is about them - about their lives together, as husband and wife. You name it, they've been through it together. From the happiest days, to the days where life-changing decisions were made, to the days of pain and grief, to now - it's always been "him and her", not without. My parents are an inspiration to so many, because through all of their sacrifices, they've continued to put others first.

My parents dated five years before getting married, so Dad likes to look of their relationship as just "a really long time". But overall, I know he couldn't be happier that Mom decides to stay around, no matter how many years is really that long. :)

Mom & Dad,
Your marriage defines your strength and your character. What you have done for Eric and I can be matched by no one. I love you both very much.
Love, Em

Yum! Yum! Yum!

2009-02-20T14:02:00.008-05:00

Wednesday night Mom and I went to visit an old neighbor of ours who bakes amazing cakes and is wanting to get more involved with weddings. Living next to the Simon's for eight years we had an opportunity to taste Mrs. Simon's cookies, chocolate zucchini bread (yum!) and fancy desserts. When Mom mentioned that Mrs. Simon had baked wedding cakes in the past, I wasn't hesitating for her to make the phone call.

Not only did she have her album of cakes displayed on her dining room table, but had a top tier (flowers and all) for us to taste! Of course, deciding what goes inside the cake really was the easy part - the outside (or how it looks) was a bit more challenging. Eric really wanted something plain and simple - but he's grown to know, I don't quite do plain - simple, sure - not plain. I always had in mind a design that I was shooting for, but the more I looked at pictures, the more I came up with completely different ideas. As I pointed out the pictures I had with me, I changed my mind every other second as to which was my favorite.

I couldn't talk about the chosen design without showing the picture of inspiration. There are a few changes we've added to make it our own. For instance, our wedding colors are sage and brown (who knew, right?!) - but we seem to be using a lot of brown and a little of sage. Therefore, instead of the brown ribbons and brown flourish designs around each layer, we're sticking with the sage color. Mrs. Simon has asked for us to find the best swatch that matches the color we're aiming for and she will mix together whatever she needs to make it match. What I'm hoping to do is once the bridesmaid dresses arrive, take one into a paint shop and sift through the samples. The rest of the butter cream icing will be colored ivory, with a flower decoration on top, obviously more than what's pictured here.

As for the tasty part - we've chosen red velvet (my favorite!) as the top layer, lemon cream as the second, marble as the third, and half vanilla, half chocolate for the fourth. Each layer itself will be two "slabs" of cake combined with icing in the center. We've opted not to get too fancy with the icings on the inside, because the actual cake part is our favorite.

The cake will sit on a gold stand - similar to what's displayed here. Mom and I had already started planning for the cake table, and months ago purchased a set of candle displays. It's hard to explain what they look like - but basically a small, medium and large sized glass "tube" that hold a hanging tea-light candle in the middle. Each has the cracked-glass look at the bottom - something you'd definitely see on a house mantel. Depending on how everything fits on the table, we may use both sets that we bought - if not, it's a present for me!

Now...if only the DJ deal would be this easy to accomplish...

P.S. Amanda, your venue is absolutely perfect! I take back all of the mean things I said about having me wait so long...it was worth it! :)

Happy Birthday, Dan! (Well, what I should say is - Michelle, please tell Dan I said Happy Birthday - seeing as how he is the last person, next to Neil, who reads this...)

Short and Sweet Update

2009-02-17T18:48:00.006-05:00

As mentioned yesterday, last night Eric and I took a trip to Men's Warehouse Tuxedo Rental and found exactly what we're looking for. And, to my father's utter disappointment - they not only rent out the chocolate brown tuxedo - but had a display out for all to see! :)

(For those who aren't aware - my father isn't really a fan of the chocolate colored tux! I keep telling him that when his second daughter gets married, that's when he can wear a black tux - and seeing as how he doesn't have a second daughter - it looks like he's stuck!)

Eric was able to pair the tux together with the champagne vest and tie. The saleswoman at the store even went as far as to piece the manikin together exactly how it would look on Eric - which is what I think personally won him over. The colors flow very well together and add a little bit of their own style. We're still planning to check out a few other places here locally to compare prices - but so far, so good!

As for some more exciting news...Eric and I booked our flights to and from San Juan for our honeymoon! :) We've had our Caribbean cruise booked for months, but were waiting on the flight tickets - except today Amanda sends me a message explaining that Delta's flight prices are starting to go up. Obviously wanting to take advantage of the lower prices, I booked them immediately. Not only are we saving ourselves over $200 by booking them today, but we were also able to still reserve our intended times and seats (I hate sitting in the back of a plane!).

We knew when we started talking about our honeymoon, we wanted to wait until the following weekend to leave. With our wedding being a holiday weekend by itself, that shortens our work week anyway! Our cruise sails Sunday-Sunday, but because I've never been on a boat (other than the famous Destin Pontoons!) and Eric hasn't been on a cruise in years - we've opted to fly from Indianapolis to San Juan the Saturday before the night we depart for the islands. We've racked up loads of credit card points to give ourselves a free-night's stay at the San Juan Marriott Resort & Casino with time to settle in before the trip. We figured this was our way of taking full advantage of the weekend - and sneak in an extra day in the sun! Well, for me at least - an extra day in the shade for the groom! :)

Don't be mad...I have good reasons!

2009-02-16T10:58:00.010-05:00

I am completely aware I have abandoned our blog and left you with no new updates for over 10 days. Please accept this as my sincere apology. However, it feels like a lot has happened, and then it feels like nothing has - so, there you have it - that's my "good reason". OK, more like I got a bit busy with non-wedding items, which all needed my full attention...but have no fear, the wedding never really leaves my mind! :)

Where do I begin?! Big ticket items first...CRG! Last week, I signed away the official contract, after having all of our questions answered. I received confirmation that they received the fax and our information, which means: Our date is booked! :) I couldn't be happier with our decision!

Regarding DJs...grrr. I'm almost to the point where I want to give up and go with my iPod, but something keeps telling me that we'll find the right one. I had a few conversations over the past couple of days with local DJs, but $1,000 is just not what we're looking to spend - no matter how great their "production" sounds are. Which leads me back to where I started - why is it that every time I'm contacted by a DJ and explain to them we're looking for something very low-key, nothing over-the-top, they agree - then 20 minutes later I receive an email saying they've got a "great deal" for $950 with exclusive light designs, dance introductions, retelling the story of how our engagement happened?...what part of the "non-over-the-top" did they not understand? Therefore, I'm stuck.

Last week Mom called a former neighbor of ours who we knew made wedding cakes - but we weren't sure if she still did. And to my liking - she still does! In fact, she's even made a Princess Castle wedding cake - yes, you heard that right...this could become an option for us! :) OK, maybe not - but that's the right way to win my heart, with anything Princess-like! We set up a time to meet with her this Wednesday. She's asked that we bring pictures of what we're looking for (like I don't have these already!) and she'll provide some tastings of what might work. I think we're all looking forward to this, especially because we know how great Mrs. Simon's desserts are! :)

And, the same night that Mom contacted Mrs. Simon - we also all agreed on an invitation layout. Which was a unanimous choice - to my complete surprise! I am going to tweak the size of a few things, but at least I'm looking at only one layout to fiddle with, instead of four. The programs are still up in the air, but at least the design has been chosen!

And, as of this afternoon - the girls' dresses will be ordered! And still - right on schedule, we should have them sometime between the last week in April and the first week of May. Of course, this didn't come without a bump in the road. Dana, who has danced for some umpteen number of years and is measured constantly for dance uniforms, takes down her measurements and sends them to me, so that I can place the order. Perfect idea, right? Except, yesterday I make the phone call and the consultant at A Bride's Dream explains to me that with Dana's measurements, she's falling somewhere between a size 14 or 16...clearly for those who have seen Dana in person, she's not a 14 nor a 16. Even with the dresses running small, I kindly explain that there's no way - in fact I even mention how Kelly is about the same size as Dana (Dana would just be taller - but only by a few inches!) and Kelly's dress is nearly half of what she's projected for Dana! Therefore, I asked the lady to put our conversation on hold and gave Dana a call back immediately. We're still not able to understand why the measurements came out so off, but this morning - on her way up to Purdue - Dana snuck into the store and was remeasured. Needless to say, the small puff of drama has now been moved for clear skies! :)

This afternoon, Eric and I are going to take a trip to a few local tuxedo shops to see what's available to rent. As mentioned previously - if not on here, Mr. Carrico has mentioned it several times to everyone he comes in contact with - the guys' tuxes will be chocolate brown, instead of the traditional black. Again, as most people know - I'm trying to avoid the two most standard colors possible for a wedding - black and white. With my dress being an ivory shade, and the girls' dresses being sage - a chocolate brown fits perfectly. And, yes - Eric likes the color idea as well! A Bride's Dream does rent tuxedos, but because of the location and the rental return policy - we're going to look for a shop closer to our side of town. I was able to find online two stores that do carry the exact same suit - it's just a matter of piecing together the entire outfit, including the vest color.

-

OK - there you have it...a nice, long update! :) And, yes, I'm deeply sorry - holding those who read this silly blog away from updated details is wrong...it won't happen again!

More than just Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T10:13:00.005-05:00

Dear Groom,

Happy Birthday! :) I love you!

Love, Bride

Days To Go : 212

2009-02-05T20:38:00.006-05:00

Seven months from today, Eric and I will be "Mr. and Mrs." :) This past month has been half busy/half slow; however, there's always time to make sure we're in line with our Checklist! Here it goes...

- Sign your caterer contract and send in a deposit.

Done...well, sort of. We received the final contract from CRG this week. However, I had a few questions on some of the charges and Missy is researching them now. (Well, maybe not right as we speak - but she was looking into them during normal business hours. Have I told you how great she is?!)

- Start auditioning reception bands or DJs. / Book reception band or DJ, sign the contract and send a deposit.

These really are two tasks individually, but really, with our progress I've combined them into one. All of a sudden this week I became overly busy - but will finally have time on Saturday to call the referrals and DJs I've researched. Like I've mentioned before, it's a struggle to find exactly what we're looking for.

- Decide on and meet with your officiant to discuss ceremony structure.

Despite us not having our ceremony within church walls, we're still wanting to keep our ceremony as traditional as possible. We've gotten a chance to look over a few faith-built ceremonies and have selected one that matches our relationship almost effortlessly.

- Begin looking for a baker to make your wedding cake.

Missy has given us a few names around her area that are familiar with CRG and that she highly recommends. I've also gathered a few local shops to take a look at. Most likely for this, we'll start visiting them sooner rather than later. Despite the cake stories from previous posts - we've actually come to an "agreeable" decision! :)

- Register for your wedding gifts, and don't forget to include some choices appropriate for your upcoming bridal shower.

First of all, my bridal showers are not any time "upcoming", and secondly - this is on hold for just another month. I was able to find an amazing "check list" for everything brides and grooms should register for - which will be very helpful. I know I've mentioned it before - but even grocery shopping is difficult for us! We've selected the stores we like the most (all reasonable price ranges and national stores, mind you) and have decided upon which items we're going to concentrate on in certain stores - just haven't fully made the jump to actually go into the stores. We will be keeping some items off the list - for instance, anything I can't pronounce.

- Brides: Collect necessary measurements from attendants or pass along vendor information so that they can order the dresses themselves.

This will be done tomorrow! :)

- Start planning the rehearsal dinner.

Eric and I haven't talked too much about this, but we have agreed we want something that is comfortable for everyone. And because so many members of our families will be traveling from out-of-town, we're figuring they're going to be in town the night of our rehearsal dinner and want to include everyone. Obviously there are plenty of options - just beginning the researching options.

- Start working on your invitation wording and design. / Finalize your invitation wording.
Done. As I've mentioned before, I've got it down to four top-choices, but the wording has been chosen. Therefore, this is marked off the list...make that TWO marks! :)

- Finalize menu and service details with caterer.
Check! :) I sent Missy a copy of the floor plan for our buffet room to help come up with some different setup options. I've got a few in mind - but might as well go with the professional on this one!

-

Because I was told by some friends that my "lovely" photographs (yes, that's sarcasm) of Laurel Hall lack any pictures of the main entrance...Friends, this is Laurel Hall. And in seven months I'll be marrying my best friend in that dream.

Quick Visit

2009-02-02T21:22:00.003-05:00

Earlier this afternoon, Eric and I got a chance to take his mom (Betsy) and his step-dad (Bob - Happy Birthday, Bob!) to visit Laurel Hall for the first time. I think Betsy was the most excited out of all of us - but I'm always up for a trip to visit. As we were making the trip around the building, Betsy did ask what part about the entire place makes me nervous or gives me the most chills about the whole wedding. I, of course, said the ceremony. But I think leading up to the ceremony is the most nervous part. Where the bride's room is, I will walk down a long hallway and then down the steps to the lobby and then to the basement where we'll walk outside - I think the walk will be the moment it hits me, if I had to choose one. I think at that moment I'll hold Dad's hand and cry - then my girls will dab (not wipe!) my tears and I'll move on. I'm not too terribly nervous about the actual ceremony - but, it is almost 7 months away and that could change as we get closer and closer!

While we were at Laurel Hall, I was able to show them everything but the actual ceremony location. Seeing as how my favorite Mother Nature dropped "a few" inches of snow on us last week, which hasn't quite melted, we weren't able to walk outside along the back deck and down to the grassy area. They weren't as bummed as I was, but more because they really didn't know what to expect. It was great to see the excitement on Betsy's face - which was the ultimate goal! :)

Now that Mom and Dad are back, we will move a bit closer regarding some of the loose ends. I'm still struggling to find a DJ, however Angie has given me the name of someone who I am going to contact and see if I can gain a lead.

According to my handy checklist I've gathered through multiple sources, the "7th Month" mark doesn't quite have much going on - mostly because we've already taken care of it. However, that's really not holding me from moving on with the list - I tend to want to work at my own pace! To me, there's still plenty to work on and plenty to keep me busy! :)

P.S. Amanda, I'm trying to be patient! :)

Only Progress

2009-01-31T14:35:00.008-05:00

There has been progress made with the invitations! :) And, please keep in mind - a decision hasn't been made, only progress. As I've mentioned before, when thinking of ideas on how to design our wedding invitations, I've found that wedding flourishes became ultimate "must haves". Therefore, I've selected four flourish designs that were my favorite - and have printed examples of each invitation, response card, directions card, "favor" card and matching program! I've even gone to the extreme as to glue them together on an extra piece of paper for display purposes, easier to see the "collection" as one - so that when Eric returns home from class this afternoon I can throw the designs in front of him and try to pick a favorite. I think of the four I've created, there are two that are my favorite-favorites, but as a test of our compatibility (haha - OK, not really!) I'm going to see which he likes the best! I will say, that unlike our Save-the-Dates, the wedding invitations will all be the same, not the "half this design" and "half that design". I'm not completely sold on the setup of the programs just yet, but putting together examples will help make the final decision that much easier.

Back when Eric and I first got engaged (which was like sooo last year!) Mom and I were shopping in Target and came across the Do-It-Yourself wedding invitation kits. I was a fan of these from the beginning, therefore we brought home two kits (which hold 25 sets each)...however, after I finish filling you in on the most up-to-date news about this wedding - I'm making another trip up to Target, hoping they have more. I've determined that we need extras for test-runs, printing mistakes, paper-jams, who knows what! And for some reason we only purchased 100 programs, knowing now we very well could have almost 50 more than that! Obviously, our number counting back in June isn't quite figuring to be the same in January!

And, because now that I'm 99.99% sure everyone has received our Save-the-Date cards, I figured I'd share them with the rest of the world - especially Nicole! Aren't they perfect?!

(Please note that the following two pictures are the original proof pictures from Wedding Paper Divas. When moving through their printing process, they opted to move the date and city/state onto two separate lines...which was a perfect idea!)

Not much besides a foot of snow...

2009-01-28T23:28:00.004-05:00

This would be the moment where I've been told I'm a horrible blogger - because I go away for a few days and leave "From Carrico to Davis" in the dust...but really, this time - there's just not much to update on. As you are all aware, last weekend we did send out the Save-the-Dates and are happy to know that they are arriving to our guests each day! We've received several comments about them, which is always a good-choice booster!

Eric and I had scheduled a trip to Laurel Hall this afternoon to show his mother, Betsy, around and witness the mansion for herself - however the area known as "Greater Indianapolis" woke up with at least 12 inches of snow on the ground. As you can tell, this obviously has postponed our adventure. I was able to email Stephanie this afternoon at Laurel Hall to see about a rescheduled date, but my guess is she probably didn't make it in to the office either! Oh, and, I'd like to take this minute to point out how rude my parents can be - picture this: You and your wonderful fiance are outside shoveling the foot of nasty, cold and wet snow (with your little brother acting like a fool with the neighborhood kids!) and you look at your phone which reads, "85 degrees" followed by "Dad wanted you to know" - rude, right?! Glad to know you're having such a great time, DAD!

Anyway - now that I'm off my vent-step for the evening...we are hoping to reschedule for next week, just waiting to hear back from Stephanie. We're also waiting to hear back from Missy from CRG regarding the final contract - which will be signed within the next week. And, finally - once the "rents" return from the Caribbean, we'll be placing the order for the bridesmaid dresses! Therefore, this should explain why we're in a "holding point".

I've done Eric a favor from not bombarding him with questions about the wedding invitation designs and have put them off for a few days. I'm thinking that after a couple days go by, I can come back with a new fresh mind and finally make a decision - well, that's what I'm telling myself. We'll see how it goes from here! :)

I hope everyone is staying safe in the snow and ice and when something more exciting actually happens with the wedding - I'll be sure to fill everyone in, as usual! :)

Check your mailbox!

2009-01-24T19:39:00.004-05:00

Throughout the entire planning process, I've been keeping a mental "Lessons Learned" list...and after late last night - I have found Lesson Learned #1: Instead of licking 50 envelopes, buy a glue stick! I know it sounds crazy, but I'm not kidding you - I couldn't get the nasty taste out of my mouth all night, and it was only 50. Of course, the 50 envelopes that were sent out this afternoon would be our Save-the-Dates! Now this means Eric and I will have a 7 1/2 month stay on our guests' refrigerators! :) I've since scratched into my brain as a reminder that when it comes time to stuff and seal the wedding invitations - to purchase one of the fancy, envelope glue sticks. That, or it's Eric's turn to lick!

I'm still working on editing the look of our invitation, plus the response card and directions card. So far, I'm pretty satisfied with what I've created - but I'm still fiddling around with a few designs. Over the next few days I'm going to continue to look at program examples. I will be creating and printing these as well - but as many Do It Yourself tips I can get, I'm all in! We would like to keep the designs similar throughout - which, for those who are as into details as I am, you'll soon notice that the fonts used on the Save-the-Date envelopes are the same used on the wedding invitations...

Along with the invitation kit and programs, I'm beginning to build ideas for our wedding favors. We've seen beautiful box displays, cards and take-away gifts, but Eric and I have never been a fan of party-like favors. However, we wanted to still find a way to say "thank you" to our guests. I've done a lot of research of different ideas, but my original one kept coming back. In honor of our guests we are going to make a charitable donation to a scholarship fund named after my Uncle John who passed away in the summer of 2002. If he were still alive, there's no doubt in my mind he'd be the life of the party - this is my way of having him there. We also feel this is the most honest way for us to say "thank you" - when really, there are so many ways to say it. (For those who have read before, my uncle isn't the only one Eric and I have lost in our lives. We will honor my uncle and grandmother, as well as Eric's grandfather and his younger brother during our ceremony.) My thoughts are to display a message stating we have made the donation on each of the dinner tables - I'm just not fully sure how they will look and how they will be placed.

Early tomorrow morning Mom and Dad will be hopping on a plane headed towards San Juan for a Royal Caribbean cruise - who isn't jealous?! They've traveled on this cruise for the last three years, but this year is very special - they are celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary! (Which, mind you - isn't really until February...) Yup, Dad's hung around all this time! :) If it weren't for Bob and Barb insisting they join them three years ago, Eric and I would never have been so sure on our honeymoon destination - or in the case of a cruise, destinations! Eric and I will be riding on the same boat in September, just visiting a few different islands. Either way, Mom and Dad - have fun and be safe! Ryan, Eric and I will be juuuuuust fine! :)

If the shoe fits...ask Mom! :)

2009-01-23T16:15:00.007-05:00

Just a brief catering update: I spoke with Missy - the Catering Director from CRG - this afternoon and we should receive our final contract within the next few days. We looked over the multiple bar menus they have to offer - but in the end, it will save us so much more to supply the beer and wine ourselves. I brought up the question with Missy about supplying our own and what we could do to work together. To keep everything manageable, CRG is going to allow us to "rent" one of their staff bartenders for the entire time of the event - which is great! If we were to chose a bar selection from their menu, we would only have the bartender for the selected 2-3 hours - in this case, we'll have him/her from the moment the ceremony ends, up until the final call. At first, I was apprehensive about this idea - but the more I talk with Mom and Missy, the better I feel. Plus, CRG is incredibly supportive of any decision we choose to go with! :)

-

Now, for more exciting news...

Earlier this week, Eric was having a meltdown - OK, that's a bit of exaggeration on my part - and wanted to get out of the house, so we took a trip to get his car washed and to the mall. Of course, seeing as how he had no agenda as to which stores he wanted to visit - I took over and walked right into the Coach store. This would be the point where all of my "I want these..." turned into my "I need these!" :) While I was drooling over all of the purses, wallets and jewelery, I stumbled into the shoe section.

By now, you probably have an idea as to what may have caught my eye - but keep playing along! I was chit-chatting with the store manager and was talking to her about how I would love to have Coach shoes for my wedding day. She pointed out the perfect pair! So, of course, I went home and told Mom all about them - you know, about how they match, how they're the only pair I can picture myself wearing, how they are perfect for the occasion - plus they can be worn afterwards...yes, I fed her every line possible. Well, it worked! :) Last night, after eating dinner with the soon-to-be nephews, Mom and I took a trip over to the mall. Even better surprises came - they were ON SALE! For those who don't know my mother - sales to her are like feeding dogs their favorite treats, she loves them!

And, because I worked extra hard this afternoon to find a picture of the flats for my girls, I figured I'd share with the rest. Here they are:

Brand-New Spankin' Tag

2009-01-21T11:39:00.007-05:00

Yesterday I met Amanda at the bridal store to have her sizes updated and to take a look at the chosen dress one-on-one...and I must say - all three of my girls are beautiful! It was difficult to explain to her the color I picked from their swatches without looking at it in person, seeing as how the dress that was on the rack was labeled as "lavender" and it clearly was "plum". Therefore, when I say the designer color is "mocha", understand that really it's a darker "sage", and not "brown". The color that I had chosen for the first dress was called "celadon" and really was the best color, but when I was looking at Impression's version of "celadon" is was too "spring green" and that's clearly not the tone I'm pushing for. In the end, Amanda agreed that the color was perfect and she loved the dress.

We're going to be placing the order for the dresses within the next week or two - pending on when Dana can squeeze in getting fitted. With her busy schedule, it's always a work of art finding a morning or two where she's free! I asked the lovely ladies yesterday, if we were to place the order soon, when would they arrive? They are saying late April to early May - which is perfect.

Of course, while we were there we spent just a few minutes looking at the wedding dresses for Amanda. I started bouncing off loads of questions about whether she wants a full bottom, what color, what style, any specific designers, etc. - and, as always, she had answers to fire back. I was the exact same way - I knew exactly what I was looking for, and when I found it, it just felt right. Sure there were other beautiful dresses I loved, but this one just had that feeling - it was perfect. I remember trying on multiple dresses, only allowing Amanda into the dressing room with me - and when I put the dress on, and looked in the mirror she whispered, "this is it." I walked out of the dressing room and into the large showroom where my mom, MarMar and Kelly were standing - I started to cry, and so did they. Of course the amount of tears that afternoon will amount to nothing the day of our wedding - meaning I'll be packing the tissues, for myself! I never thought finding the dress would give me the goosebumps that it does. (And Amanda, I can't wait to share that same moment with you - when I say to you, "this is the one.")

On a funnier note - while we were walking down the aisles of dresses, I was curious to see if anyone else had purchased my dress off the rack - therefore, I walk over to the rack it was hanging on, to find that it was missing. My first reaction was, "well, someone else locked it up!" Only until we walk over to the other side of the store and Amanda mentions, "this one kind of looks like yours..." I paused - and laughed, because it was mine! With a brand-new spankin' tag that read "New Arrival". Clearly, for those who have seen my dress through the designer's website - where you have to select "Spring 2008"...pretty sure, that's not considered "new" - but they tried!

Wedding Monogram

2009-01-16T18:25:00.006-05:00

I know I've previously mentioned that I would share several pictures of monogram designs that I've been working on - however, we've made a decision on the one we want! I figured there's really no point in sharing the ones we aren't going to use. :) When picturing our wedding invitations, I have had an image of something with a very romantic-like look, to balance off of the look of Laurel Hall. That's when I fell in love with the look of wedding flourishes. Therefore, I began to investigate on how I could design one myself...not much luck. Then, I just so happened to come across a website full of wedding clipart (specifically because of the flourish designs) that allows you to download the image into Word - or other formats, change the color, size, rotation, etc. and found exactly what I was looking for!

I'm still debating on whether or not to use the date as part of the design, but for right now I'm keeping it off. I'm thinking as I begin to design the programs, I may add the date within the design versus leaving it off - we'll just have to wait and see! To keep some things secret, I can tell you - this image will not be used on the invitation, but it will be used on the response card, directions card, table numbers, programs, etc. We were able to use a separate clipart design for the invitation that uses the same look. Overall, I'm very excited to finally have the feel for the invitations I was looking for all along.

Last night I finalized the first draft of the potential wedding invitation, but before we call it a "go", I've decided to put it off for a few days - come back and then decide if I like it just as much as I do now (As you can see, my mind tends to change sometimes...example: the bridesmaid dress!). We did take a vote last night, and have agreed that the chocolate brown color will be the color used for the design work, leaving the sage color for the wording - no matter what design is used.

Therefore, ladies and gentlemen, I'd like to introduce: Our Wedding Monogram!

Crossing the Caterer off The List

2009-01-14T22:17:00.007-05:00

I guess, to answer the title from my previous post - yes, we DO have a winner! :) Finally, and I mean fine-aaaa-lee, we have selected a caterer and are beyond excited. The more we talk about it - the more I know we've made the perfect choice - Cunningham Restaurant Group! Like I said before - it was like they had followed us from caterer to caterer, knowing exactly how to win us over. So - there you have it, cross the caterer off the list.

Of course, with that now brings a load of other information. Because CRG is not on the "preferred list" from Laurel Hall - there will be additional administrative work that needs to be completed. However, one of the best things about Laurel Hall is - Stephanie! :) Basically my job is to hand over the contact information for CRG to Stephanie and she will handle the rest. The only thing we are responsible for is the final approval of a timeline, when it comes to determining the "pre-wedding" day activities (also known as: vendor mania!) and the "day-of" festivities.

Very little progress has been made when it comes to the DJ and cake. I've reached out to a few friends to see if they have any recommendations, but right now it's just loads of research. As I've mentioned before - it's hard to find a DJ who only plays music, and who isn't obsessed with strobe lights and dance-floor fog - there will be no dance-floor fog, period. CRG recommends working with a specific cake baker in Avon (which we've heard nothing but good things about) and are going to begin to contact a few for some design and tasting meetings.

Since my last update - I have officially received all of the addresses needed for the wedding invitations. Which means the Save-the-Dates will be mailed out sooner, rather than later! Of course, I'm debating on whether to print the names on the envelopes, write them by hand, or do the whole label-thing...ah, decisions! Either way, they'll be out within a week - and, no, Eric and I won't be delivering these by hand - for those who aren't aware, Eric's sense of direction couldn't get him past SR135! Looove you, Babe! :)

We started talking about the wedding invitations, but not how they look - more like how they will look when you pull them out of the envelope. We've received some wedding invitations that are either too messy to open, too confusing to open, or just full of too much stuff. We've noticed that when we register at specific stores, they give you cute, little cards with the website information. Sure, that's great, but we really don't want little cards falling out all over the place - instead we want to creatively attach them together - or just not use them at all. Hint, this would be time when I mention our lovely Wedding Website! :) I've got a few ideas turning around - which you can wait to see when the invitation arrives...in May/June-ish!

Within the wedding invitations, programs, table numbers, etc. we're wanting to keep everything consistent (I'm a big fan of consistent) - so, not only will we be using the same colors and fonts, I've designed a few personalized monograms. No, they aren't as fancy as purchasing a professionally-made monogram, but with my Microsoft skills - it will look professional! I'll share a few as I sharpen the edges.

Do we have a winner?!

2009-01-10T21:20:00.002-05:00

As I anticipated, today was exactly what we were looking for. Mom, Dad, Eric and I took a trip up to Charbonos for the fourth (and final) catering tasting. We felt a little awkward walking into a restaurant, sitting at a regular table and trying food not on their normal menu - but the entire meal was amazing. To freshen your memory, for our Christmas dinner - our family went to Stone Creek, which happens to be one of the family-favorite places to eat. As we were leaving, I noticed a sign and business cards mentioning a catering division of the Cunningham Restaurant Group (CRG). I grabbed the card and researched the menu and their prices - surprisingly the prices were the cheapest we'd seen thus far. I got in contact with their Catering Manager (Missy) who was more than willing to answer all of our questions. We set up a time to meet this afternoon, and from what the mood sounds like - it looks like we have a winner! :)

Of course, Mom was really pushing for this restaurant anyway, but I was trying to keep all options open. I thought Jackie did an excellent job, giving us her entire attention and above-expected flexibility. However, it was like Missy knew to step up her game! Mom and Dad love one of the dishes they serve on the Stone Creek menu, and were interested to see if it could be made into a buffet choice - which it can. However, since we know what that tastes like, we opted to try something different - sliced honey baked ham and grilled chicken with rosemary cream. Both were delicious! But, the best part about the afternoon, the "cream" used on the grilled chicken is the same cream from their favorite dish - what a great way to compromise! I wasn't sure about the ham at first, but it was very good - very southern, and something I know our families will enjoy (especially the kidos!). We also took a bite at their fresh green bean medley - I couldn't tell you the first thing they added to the beans, but they were outstanding. I could eat and entire plate of just the green beans! They brought out a rice mixture for us to taste - and the men enjoyed it - however, I'm just not a fan of any kind of rice. Therefore, we all decided potatoes would be a perfect fit. We're also going to be able to add a few additional surprises that we weren't going to be able to do with the others.

I was pleased to learn that CRG has a third-party contract with one of the most popular rental suppliers in Indianapolis - therefore the linens, chairs and chair cushions can remain the same. Eric and I love the choice, because they're well-known Indianapolis restaurants and a way to bring the entire city together. We're waiting to see the final proposal before we make the firm "GO!" but after seeing The Bank's face this afternoon - I think He was sold. Figures Dad always has a way to bring it all together! :)

-

I've started to organize a few other items this evening. Last week I emailed a few DJs, wanting to pick up on their style and contract. Because Laurel Hall has such a distinct echo, I'm really not wanting music that will blow our ears apart - but I'm also not looking for elevator music. Laurel Hall also holds very cool (and updated!) lighting in each room, which will eliminate any additional lighting needed for the dance room - however, I'm having a hard time finding a DJ that only plays music.

Along with the DJ, we're beginning to look harder at bakers for the wedding cake. An old neighbor of ours baked cakes (which are out of this world!) and I'd love to see what she can do for us. However, I'm a bit worried that she won't be able to personalize the cake much past plain icing. Therefore, I'm researching a few other suggestions for my own good - to me, you can never have too many options! Heck, at least I'm not in Amanda's shoes - trying to decide between a million venues in Scotland! :)

I'm also starting to brainstorm ideas for our invitations, response cards and direction cards. We're going to be printing these ourselves - which was my idea from the beginning - however I'm stealing a lot of ideas from different designers. The invitation set that we've purchased comes with multiple templates and font designs, which is making the decision that much harder - there are so many to choose from! I'm hoping to take the design from the invitations and use the fonts and colors for the ceremony programs as well - see, it's just one giant circle!

It's crazy to see things start to come together - like I've said before, each day it feels that much more "real". Eric couldn't be more supportive, even when he's a bit frustrated his Titans forgot how to play football (which I'm slightly happy about!). I know when The Big Day comes I'll probably miss noticing half of the details I'm putting together, which is why I'm enjoying as many of them as I can now.

More good news!

2009-01-08T13:19:00.004-05:00

Please use your imagination when I say this, but I've got breaking news! :) OK - more like a quick update, seeing as how I just clicked "post" on the previous message...

Our Save-the-Date cards have arrived! :) One whole day early too, which is a thumbs-up for UPS! The best part - I L-O-V-E 'em!

Today is a goood day!

Third time's the charm? - Maybe...

2009-01-08T12:45:00.004-05:00

Last night we had an opportunity to taste the third caterer, and despite the weather not being that much better than our first canceled meeting - everything went very well. Jackie was very open and up for "everything". As I told her, the word "everything" has become a favorite of mine! The food was good, something I wouldn't mind having on The Big Day; however, we're waiting to see what Saturday brings. Mom is secretly pushing for Saturday's meeting to be the best - but like I told her, we can have the best from anybody - just up your budget number and we can make it work! :)

Jackie made a good point last night that some of our selections during the tasting (which will be our selections for the actual meal) will have a fresher look and taste in September. Which sounds great - but seeing as how I'm not the pickiest eater around - it's hard for me to tell the difference between fresh and not fresh when it comes to something like lettuce. Let's just stick with whether I like the way it tastes now, and how it looks. We were able to taste two types of chicken last night - the first was fine, just too plain. The second was outstanding. However, something to note - I swear she used the entire chicken for our two breasts! The chicken breasts looked more like chicken chunks! We were also able to taste a mixture of grilled vegetables and potatoes - all very yummy!

Jackie did mention that obtaining a liquor license (meaning we would supply our own alcohol) isn't really that difficult in the state of Indiana - plus it's a one-day pass, and cheap. Therefore, that got Mom's mind running with ideas. My only concern, running out! As Amanda mentioned, we'll have to designate someone to make a run, if needed. Looking at our choices of guests - looks like Ryan might be the lucky winner! (Ah, little brothers - they're good for something, right?!) I'm not really pushing either way at this point - whether that be the caterer supplying the beer/wine or us - but I enjoyed how Jackie gave us the option, plus she mentioned she'd supply the ice and storage, need be. Just another "To Do" when it comes to research...or should I say, balancing "the numbers". However, if we supplied our own wine - I would be able to create customized wine bottle labels, which I like! :)

I'm confident a choice will be made soon - just needing a few extra days to put the pieces together! Stay tuned...

8 Months Away & In the Clear!

2009-01-06T11:55:00.006-05:00

With only 242 days (8 MONTHS!) to go - it's time for a quick checklist update :) - enjoy!

* Decide on a caterer. - This will be solved shortly. Read below for more details...
* Start auditioning reception bands or DJs. - I've started to contact a few, but am running into some walls. We don't really want over-the-top entertainment, which is hard to find when you talk about having a good party.
* Begin looking for a baker to make your wedding cake. - We researched a few places and once the caterer is put together, that's our next stop!
* Register for your wedding gifts. - No matter how much I want to follow this checklist, we just aren't there yet.
* Purchase and send guests Save-the-Dates if your celebration is over a holiday weekend. - Done! :) OK - well, the purchase part is complete. I'll explain more in just a moment.
* Collect necessary measurements from attendants or pass along vendor information so that they can order the dresses themselves. - I'm looking to tackle this next week. Because Dana and Kelly came with me to the bridal store to pick up my dress, their measurements are up-to-date. Therefore, it's now time to tackle Amanda's crazy schedule and see if we can squeeze some time in to make her final measurements as well. I'm hoping to have these ordered before February.

-

As for the caterer, we have two meetings setup this week. Tomorrow we're meeting with one of our original choices. Then, on Saturday, we're meeting with another family-favorite. We're hoping that after meeting with these two, we'll be able to nail a choice. Each has their own character and style, which is really the best part about this entire process. They each give great suggestions to our style, which is very easy for them all to grab onto. Unfortunately, duty calls (also known as: work) and Dad will not be able to make the meeting on Wednesday, however he trusts any decision we make, just as long as the beer keeps flowing! :)

The Save-the-Dates have been purchased and are on their way. According to the UPS tracking, they should be here this week. I can not say enough good things about Wedding Paper Divas! Last week I placed the order - extremely late one evening - and the very next day they were calling to confirm my order and begin the proofing process. Because Eric and I have chosen to have two separate pictures, we placed two separate orders. Makes sense, right? Well, because we placed each order with 25 cards, we were paying the higher price for the lower count. When Matt from Wedding Paper Divas contacted me, he realized what we were doing and made the adjustments to where we receive the lower price (a 50 count) but still allowing us to have the separate pictures. He gave us suggestions on a way to fit the writing in a more "fashionable way" - yes, those would be his words. He then sent the proof over within minutes - and I couldn't be happier, and can't wait to share them! :)

-

I should take this moment and mention that last night, during half time of the Texas/Ohio State football game, I conducted a little bit of research regarding our date. As many of you are aware, Eric is by-far the biggest college football fan alive - and I have to be pretty lucky to have him, when the date we have chosen is also opening day for college football. Therefore, last night I started to think to myself - out of our two teams (UK and Texas), what games will we be missing for the wedding. Eric would like to think of it as, what games will he TiVo and watch later. I first checked UK's schedule - and as a relief to the entire Carrico family, UK currently has an open date on September 5th. But more importantly, the biggest game of the season (that would be UK vs. Louisville for those who aren't aware...) is being played on September 19th! Granted Texas does play on the 5th, but not against anyone important (in my eyes) that would cause a gamble of starting the ceremony on time. Ladies and gentlemen - we're in the clear to continue this wedding! :)

It's a love story...

2008-12-31T11:46:00.004-05:00

Today I woke up with a funny feeling - but a good feeling nonetheless. Today Eric and I will be celebrating our LAST dating-anniversary. The last before the wedding, and everyday from that moment he won't be my boyfriend, or my fiance, but my husband.

It's funny how you remember silly moments - like the very first thing Eric ever said to me. As everyone knows, Eric and I met while working at Applebee's together - oh so many years ago! :) I remember walking on the then-smoking side of the restaurant to grab the unused menus...Kentucky happened to be playing that day; however, they weren't airing the game on TV - but instead Texas baseball. So as I look up to the TV to see the score on the ESPN ticker, Eric turns to me and says, "Oh, you like Texas baseball?!" Yes, ladies and gentlemen, those are words of my Prince Charming...then again, I replied with "Oh, yes.", which was a total lie - and he soon learned the truth that outside of college football, Texas and I have very little in common.

Of course, then there's the way he asked me to be his girlfriend - or more like how he didn't. We had been hanging out with a group of friends (yes, from Applebee's) for a couple of weeks. Eric and his friends played in a basketball league, and I being the girl with a huge crush, went to cheer him on "secretly". Figures we're both invited to a New Year's Eve party where for some reason I was the target for jokes that night with some of the guys...but all-in-good-fun type of jokes. Eric was my Shining Armor at that point, throwing his arm around my shoulders and kissing my forehead he says, "Enough, that's my Em." Then later that night he decides to throw at me, "You know, I'm telling people you're my girlfriend." - I guess at that point, I was completely okay with it! :)

Then there was the first time he met my parents - picture pulling up to my house, in a teal-green Ford Tempo, duct tape holding the hood of the car together (he had a little run-in with a deer a few weeks prior) and nervous as could be. Figures though, I was home - but my parents weren't. Therefore, he waited patiently for myself to finish getting ready and for my parents to arrive before we went to dinner. He won't admit it - but I could feel his nerves before he even left his house. We greeted my parents with smiles and handshakes, then headed off. I remember asking my parents what they thought about him the next morning, my mom's response was "He's cute!" and my dad's, "His composure was impressive." Then again, it might have been watching and cheering for our Wildcats that won them over - but he's given them his best.

I'll never forget our first Valentine's Day - where we spent our afternoon at Panera Bread with half of the city of Greenwood...or the second where we took an "adventure" through Muncie, IN and finally ended up at the Subway inside WalMart. And nothing beats the first anniversary, that happened to fall the same night as the Rose Bowl - featuring Texas vs. Michigan. He had explained he was going to fix me dinner, just for the two of us - which I thought was ideal...then when I realized that also meant watching his man-crush with Vince Young, I learned his heart was split between the both of us. His fascination with a silly quarterback has almost become normal - seeing as how he's convinced that Jessica Simpson could also be my best friend. :)

I'll be the first to admit it, I never thought that when Eric and I started dating, we would spend the rest of our lives together. Our recipe for our relationship is a mix of almost everything - completely unplanned, completely whole. We aren't fearless, we have our insecurities, but we never doubt each other - never have and never will.

During our ceremony, we will be reading Union by Robert Fulghum. When I first heard the writing, I got goosebumps on how true it was to our relationship.

Union by Robert Fulgham: "You have known each other from the first glance of acquaintance to this point of commitment. At some point, you decided to marry. From that moment of yes, to this moment of yes, indeed, you have been making commitments in an informal way. All of those conversations that were held in a car, or over a meal, or during long walks - all of the conversations that began with, "When we're married", and continued with "I will" and "you will" and "we will" - all of the late night talks that included "someday" and "somehow" and "maybe" - and all the promises that are unspoken matters of the heart. All these common things, and more, are the real process of a wedding..."

Today, we count our blessings - our blessings for an even better tomorrow! I am your Margaret, you are my Butch. :)

Accomplishments - Despite being small...

2008-12-28T01:17:00.004-05:00

Christmas, like always, comes quickly and then is gone just as fast. Eric and I each had so much fun spending time with our families. However, I can't tell you how many times my family asked where he was - almost as if they were more concerned that he didn't come, than the fact that I did! :)

Now that 2009 is days away - I have cracked down on some of the necessities. For instance, our guest list has been determined for months now, but gathering the addresses has been a trick. More like I've ignored the fact that there are some addresses we just don't have written down. But - as of this evening, I'm able to cross that off the list of "To Dos". Sad thing is, I know I had half of them written down once before - the list probably fell into the recycle pile of my school stuff...seeing as how classes are over for good - I had a "Throwing Away Party" with my notebooks!

Tonight has been quite the night for wedding details. We have finally chosen our Save-the-Date cards. Choosing the card wasn't as hard as I thought - however choosing the picture made it a lot harder. The website I've chosen - Wedding Paper Divas - allows you to personalize the card before purchasing - which is great, because we were able to see what the final product would look like. I chose six of our engagement pictures that I liked the best and uploaded the samples. Figures that really didn't make the decision any easier. We narrowed our choices down to three - and then realized that because we need 50 cards, we can order 25 with my favorite picture and 25 with Eric's favorite - see, we're starting to negotiate...just don't get your hopes up until you read on. Of course, Mr. and Mrs. Bank's favorite part about this entire project (mind you, neither one of them were up for Save-the-Date cards to begin with) is the fact that printing, plus shipping, plus tax, plus envelopes will all be under $100! Impressive, I know - you may begin your applause now.

We've also started to look at wedding cake designs, and right now the only thing we can agree on is the fact that we don't want it to be "too busy". However, when you ask each of us about the design, the number of a layers, flowers vs. a cake topper, the final shape...we don't quite seem to be negotiating the same "vision". I can say I'm about half way there with persuading him that a round cake will fit much nicer with our round table than a square cake. He hasn't quite bought my reasoning for the other decisions just yet. We have found a few designs we each like individually, which are shown below. As you can see, for the multiple designs, you have both a round and a square layout. :)

For a quick catering decision update - at this point, we've decided a decision needs to be made, but it's definitely a tough decision. Next week we have a scheduled phone conversation with one catering company (which will hopefully answer a lot of our questions) and then on the 7th we have our third scheduled tasting. After the 7th, we're hoping a decision can be made! Cross your fingers!

As for now, it's late and I'm off to bed. My Indianapolis Colts play his Tennessee Titans tomorrow - and I need my sleep...sleeping will help the trash-talk move a bit faster! :)

Late Night Surprise

2008-12-26T00:01:00.001-05:00

So, you'd think after being up at 5:30am on Christmas morning I'd be knocked out in bed - seeing as how it's just past midnight...

...too bad Amanda just called and gave me the most exciting news!! Tonight, after he arrived at the airport in Florida ...

MR. NEIL BARNES POPPED THE QUESTION TO MY AMANDA!! :)

I sent her a lovely message around 11:30pm, saying I couldn't stay up any longer to wish her a happy birthday - next thing I know she's calling...which is strange - we aren't the calling-friends type. So, I answered and I'm so happy that I did!

Amanda & Neil - Congratulations!! :) You two are amazing individually - but even more together. I'm beyond excited for the both of you!!

And, figures - now that is just past midnight - I also must wish Amanda a HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! :) I mean it when I say it - God gives us Angels, you just happen to be one of the best.

OOOH, how I love Christmas!!

Early Christmas

2008-12-22T21:11:00.001-05:00

Last Friday Mom, Dad, Ryan and I hopped in the car and headed to Nashville for an early Christmas weekend. Eric, unfortunately, was unable to join due to work - however, that didn't stop us from (a) drinking, (b) eating, (c) laughing - due to our entertainment named Connor - and (d) wedding talk!

Of course both sides of our families are aware we're engaged and getting married in September - as Angie would say, who doesn't know?! But, I hadn't had an opportunity to share many juicy details with my Aunt Anita and Uncle Hal (I'm leaving John and Greg out this because they really don't care...and I'm okay with that - and Pamela and I already had an opportunity to share the weekend she moved to Chicago.) It was great hearing funny stories about all of the Carrico weddings! My mom will tell the story that of all the Fihe daughters (that would be her sisters...), her wedding with my father was the one that went through the most beer - of course, we all kindly remind her, that's because she married a Carrico! :)

Seeing as how we're an overly competitive family, anytime we're together we whip out the games. And Catch Phrase is one of the favorites. It became my only favorite this weekend - and not because our team of girls dominated - but because our wedding was used as a hint to the words multiple times!

Of course this won't be the only weekend we're heading to Tennessee over the Holiday Season - on January 1st we're headed back down to watch my UK Wildcats take on Eastern Carolina in the Liberty Bowl on the 2nd...after two days of weather below or slightly above ZERO DEGREES, I'm up for a little more southern comfort! Granted, it's no Bonita Springs, Florida like last Christmas...

--

Last night we celebrated Christmas as a family - well, the five of us at least - which has been our tradition for the last few years. Because this will be the last Christmas Eric and I are celebrating as a non-married couple, we've decided to do our separate things with each side one last year. Meaning, later this week I'll be traveling to Louisville and he'll be heading out to Clayton. However, when waiting to be seated for dinner at Stone Creek, Mom and I happen to see a sign that mentions catering for weddings. Obviously this excited Mom - I think she dreams about their Mustard-Crusted Chicken in her sleep. I grabbed the card and am going to check out their selections and prices - which I'm trying to multi-task while writing this blog, but it's not working too well. Because Cunningham Restaurant Group (the owners of Stone Creek and several other restaurants) is not on the "preferred list" from Laurel Hall, we would have to pay an additional fee to bring them in. Mr. and Mrs. Bank (yes, that would be my parents...) both made very good points - if it's going to be cheaper to have food we know is good (as well as beverage service, linens, rentals, etc. - which they do offer) and still pay the extra fee, we're up for it. Look for more details to come after I actually focus on the menu and additional options.

As for now, I've still got LOADS of wrapping to do! Thank you to the entire Carrico family who helped celebrate my college graduation in style. My favorite quote came from the one and only, Uncle Hal: "You did good." It finally was time! :)

3 days until Christmas! :)

P.S. Amanda, you may be excited about your birthday week (as I am too!) - however, I need to teach you that for us, we deserve birthday MONTHS! :) Only 4 more days!