katie the lady

Meh.

2008-11-20T11:45:00.000-08:00

As a lover of blogs, I feel that I have to say something more here. I didn't want to leave all 2 of my readers in a lurch (if even you 2 are still left...) but I just haven't felt very bloggy in a while. Not sure when the feeling to blog will come back, but I thought there should be some closure.

Ok, enough 'blog as verb' usage. I think I'm stuck because part of me doesn't want to share our wedding. Our feelings and emotions that day now feel very private (even though we were surrounded by 132 of our nearest and dearest) and I have been living in my head a lot lately, feeling like I need to shield myself for some unknown reason. It feels safe here, so I think I'll stay for a while.

So, farewell internet friends. At least for now.

Kara's Cupcakes

2008-10-03T09:25:00.001-07:00

image found here

Kara’s Cupcakes

3249 Scott Street (at Chestnut)
San Francisco, California 94123
P 415 563-CAKE (2253)
www.karascupcakes.com

First things first: the cupcakes are tasty. The cake is moist, the frosting is buttery and in generous proportion. These are better cupcakes than many out there, and you can’t go wrong with the lemon.

If I could just shut off my brain and enjoy them, I totally would. Or if magical cupcake elves dropped them at my door and I never had to step into the shop, I wouldn’t complain. However…

Kara’s was a brand new business back in 2006 (I think…) just around the corner from our apartment. I had been stalking the bright pink storefront for quite some time, just itching for it to open and love me. I had very high expectations, let me tell you. I needed a weekday cupcake fix (Chestnut Bakery only makes cupcakes on the weekend…. WHY?), and Kara’s was sure to solve all my problems.

So, B and I walked over to Blockbuster one fine evening, and while walking back, what did I see? A bright shiny and OPEN Kara’s Cupcakes. Delight! B and I were drooling. We walked in the door, proceeded to the counter, and I (somewhat embarrassingly) started rifling off all of the flavors I wanted to the person behind the counter. I got halfway through “Rasberry Dazz…” when I was cut off. The salesperson, who with the feigned accent of Heidi Montag, pronounced “WE’RE CLOSE FOR A PRIVATE PARRRRTYYYYYY!”

No “So sorry”. No apology whatsoever.

I’ll admit it, I started to get indignant. I am a stickler for customer service, and won’t tolerate being treated badly in a store. I responded, “Oh really? Says who?”

Evil Heidi spawn, “Huh?”

Me: “If you are closed, you should have a sign on the door. No one should have even let us walk through the door.”

She: “Ummmmm… OKAAAAAAAAAAAY”

So, very very dejectedly we left Kara’s cupcakes, and I cursed all the way home.

I will admit that I was lured back to Kara’s once after that (months later, after I regained some of my dignity). The buttercream siren song was just too much to bear. The ‘cakes were good, I’ll admit. But the whole time I was there, I thought of the evil spawn, and it kinda effected the whole experience, you know? Funny follow up: was recently waiting in line at Magnolia Bakery in NYC next to a woman who was going on and on about Kara’s and how fabulous they are. I looked at her, said “Eh, they’re OK. Kara is a bitch”.

Pros:
• Cake’s are good

Cons:
• Service is the worst ever.
• Parking is a nightmare

Bottom Line:

Go here only M-F. If you’re jonesing for a cupcake on the weekend, trek a few blocks down Chestnut street to the Chestnut Bakery and treat yourself to some real honest delicious bakery goodness. The people there are lovely.

Cupcakes Anonymous: Magnolia Bakery

2008-09-24T15:23:00.000-07:00

Magnolia Bakery

401 Bleecker St
New York, NY 10014
(212) 462-2572
www.magnoliacupcakes.com

Many believe Magnolia to be the Holy Grail of cupcakes, and I mostly agree. B and I never fail to make the pilgrimage to Magnolia every time we visit (it’s not tough – they are open until 12:30 AM on the weekends!) We always buy way too many cakes, try to shove them in our carryon bags, and then eat the mashed little wounded soldiers when we get home. Still good!

The cake is tasty (if a little dense sometimes) and the buttercream frosting can’t be beat (plus there is always A LOT of frosting). The shop itself is super cute (vintage mixers and retro kitchen gadgets abound) and the neighborhood couldn’t be better. There’s even a park across the street to sit and commence the sugar shock.

Pros:
• Really excellent frosting. My favorite, by far.
• Red Velvet. Best flavor.
• Cute shop and surroundings
• Easy hours
• Featured in one of my favorite SNL Digital Shorts, Lazy Sunday (google it) SNACK ATTACK!

Cons:
• Cake sometimes dry/dense
• Lines often long
• Tourist attraction

Bottom line:

If you have the time, absolutely go there. Realize though that on the weekends you will probably stand in a line that snakes around the corner. It moves pretty fast, but it can be excruciating standing there with the smells just taunting you.

For sale!

2008-09-21T16:01:00.000-07:00

Oh my.. such a tease

2008-09-21T16:00:00.000-07:00

I promise I didn't forget about the cupcakes, heavens no.

This weeken has been dedicated to reclaiming my home from the gobbling wedding monster. Cleaning, Ebaying, and Craigslisting is so fun.

Katie the Lady, Cupcake Expert

2008-09-16T18:53:00.000-07:00

I’m considering adding an official title. I have spent the past few weeks traveling around the US, and realized that somehow and someway, I always end up at these fabulous cupcake joints. So, I was thinking a series of posts was necessary to review my faves.

Of course, there are entire blogs devoted to cupcakes, so hop over for some instant gratification Cupcake Takes the Cake Blog

Why I heart Etsy. part 2.

2008-09-05T11:07:00.001-07:00

Image from Littlekittysville's shope - http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14148657

Alex P. Kitten needs this now. The kitty in the photo is practically his twin, also.

Yours for a mere $49. And would fit in with our decor so well...

Married!

2008-09-05T11:00:00.001-07:00

Ah! So it actually happened. All of the obsessing and kvetching worked out. I was the most blissfully oblivious bride in the whole wide world. Apparently a toddler trailed me down the aisle, but I have no memory of that (though, I hope the photog caught a good shot!) Apparently the bluegrass music was incredible. Nope, didn't hear it. At some point my shoes became untied. Didn't notice until we got to the hotel at the end of the night. I just kept telling anyone who would listen "Best Day Ever!" and it was so true.

Anyway, I don't have many photos to share (yet) - but I do have this:

Photobooth - awesome. With it's own frustrations as well, but I'll save that for a later date.

It's good to be back! So... what do I obsess about now?

Manzanita update..

2008-07-27T18:27:00.000-07:00

They are so ready for their big debut..

oh ps: the hanging votive holders and lcd tealights are from flowersandsupplies.com. woohoo!

Greetings from Craft Central!

2008-07-27T18:25:00.001-07:00

Six days to go, people! Only limited amount of crafting left.. but you know I'm going to pack as much in as I can :)

Registry? Nah.

2008-07-22T12:35:00.000-07:00

Guests, take note. Non-registry gifts are not so bad. We have received gifts of:

1) A Wii
2) Beef Jerky

'Nuf Said.

mailbox stalking

2008-06-17T10:58:00.000-07:00

Can you guess which is the "no" pile? So much for the small wedding... :)

Manzanita pics!

2008-06-16T19:14:00.001-07:00

Some inspiration...

(image here: http://www.cupidsarrowweddings.net/image_uploads/DSC01333.JPG)

The real thing coming soon!

I heart Manzanita

2008-06-16T16:02:00.000-07:00

So I posted a while back about how to cozy up the reception space, and my caterer had suggested renting trees. It just didn't do it for me (plus it was darn pricey). I racked my little brain, and I found some inspiration:

Manzanita branches! And not just some wimpy small ones, no sir. With the help of my dear internet friend Amanda, I have 6 huge "branches" that are over 60 inches tall!

Pics to come...blogger is having some trouble loading photos at the moment. These are like sculpture, I'm so impressed. I'm still debating exactly what to do with them, but I am for sure hanging some LED votives off of them. I might include some flowers.. but B is not sold on that. He thinks they will look great with just the candles, and I worry that they will look like something from the Haunted Mansion without some added "softness". Anyway, potato potahto. I'm just happy to have them.

Invites.. better late than never, right?

2008-06-13T11:02:00.001-07:00

Life has kinda crashed lately. Lots of work travel. Stomach flu/food poisoning. Cat personality disorders. Whew. Calgon take me away.

Anyway, here are some shots of our lovely invitation suite. Which I love dearly. And plan on framing and gazing adoringly upon daily.

So where did you draw the line?

2008-05-23T09:13:00.000-07:00

Something that has been weighing heavy in my mind lately (and creating a big pit in my stomach): when it came to invitations, where do you draw the line?

Early in the planning, B and I drew some very arbitrary lines, and firmly agreed to stick to them (however flimsy they may have been). One rule: no children of cousins are invited. I have A LOT of cousins, and most of them have kids. The exponential growth was astounding. So that was one line.

Second: no one we don't know, or haven't spoken to in years. Seems to be a no-brainer, right?

Insert parents and kid-clinging cousins.

First, B's mom gave us her list. I didn't question it, because I didn't think it was my place to do that. Turns out she included her cousins, and their children. She also included neighbors from 10 years ago. She also included her personal friends. All ok and fine with me, as her numbers weren't huge. But, there are some people on the list who B has never met. There's just something wrong about, "Nice to meet you! Welcome to my wedding!" Anyway. It is OK.

But, my parents are not inviting their cousins, nor any of their friends. Gulp.

So the lines have been significantly blurred, but I still had to go back to one of my relatives (my dad's aunt) and tell her that no, her adult son's are not invited. That was tough.

I think the real lines are lines of relationships. If you are close to someone, you actually talk to them or have seen them in the past year. You feel some sort of bond with them. But the problem with these emotional lines is that you get into the sticky area of "oh so you just don't like me as much as Susie". Double gulp.

I sincerely wish that I could include everyone under the sun. I really really do. But at what point do you give up your vision and your level of comfort (our desire for a small intimate gathering) to please everyone else?

Bad Blogger

2008-05-20T09:21:00.001-07:00

So, I have been very busy with the aforementioned invitations, but that's really no excuse. I'll be back soon with updates and new projects and other fun stuff. In the mean time, I just have to say that I never ever ever thought that I would be worrying and debating the guest list this close to the wedding, but we are. For the record, I have caved and we are letting kids come to the reception. I'm kind of pissed at myself for giving in to the drama that certain people in my life created, but I'm not gonna dwell. That's all for now. More soon, I promise!

Invitation sneak peek!

2008-05-07T15:19:00.001-07:00

(photo credit: Tara, Ephemera Custom Letterpress)

They're fabulous. They're vintage-y. They have birds.

That's all I'm gonna say for now ;)

I heart makeup

2008-05-01T11:16:00.000-07:00

Click here to go to Benefit's website. Click image for a bigger view.

I just love Benefit's new spring line.. Prettier than the Bride. I happen to have gotten a freebie of the silky finish lipstick in "Bouquet Dive", and it is an awesome wear with anything shade. Just adds a tint of "put together", but not, "I'm trying to hard." That's a hard line in lipstick, you know.

How could I have forgotten?

2008-04-25T15:34:00.001-07:00

I'm on peyote, I swear. I can't believe that I forgot to post our engagement photos! Well..we had an excellent session with our wedding day photographer, Francis Baker http://www.francisbaker.com/weddings/. Basically, Francis rocks. I'll let his art speak for him.

Here's one..

click HERE to see more!

Ordered my band!

2008-04-22T13:48:00.000-07:00

Oh the excitement is mounting every day...

I've been having trouble with bands because (a) my engagement ring was modeled after an antique, so it has a unique shape that doesn't really "go" with the typical bands that are out there and (b) I am really really cheap (errr frugal).

Apparently the cost of platinum is skyrocketing as the value of stocks and bonds are plummeting (I have no idea what I'm talking about here...does it sound like I do?) so rings have gotten noticeably more expensive in the past year. Lame. Thar goes thy budget.

So I found my lovely above when I was in NYC last week. It looks perfectly eclectic with my e-ring, not matchy and not clashy. I figure that if I was going to bust the budget, it might as well be on something that I love. Agree?

Tag? I'm way too lazy to play tag.

2008-04-20T08:37:00.001-07:00

Seriously. I might be the laziest person you know. Anyway. Alissa over at
Grace's birdcage wedding
has tagged me, and it has taken more than a few days to respond... whoops. I am really just thrilled that someone other than j.ro is reading my posts. I mean really, who knew?

RULES:
1) you link back to the person who tagged you.
2) post these rules on your blog.
3) share six unimportant things about yourself.
4) tag six random people at the end of your entry.
5) let the tagged people know by leaving a comment on their blogs

Here are my six:
1. I have extremely large hands and feet. I am a petite person, small in most other ways, but for some reason these 4 body parts had some strange growth spurt that did not translate to the rest of my body. I wear size 9-9.5 shoes (10 if they are italian). I'm 5'2.5"! It's very perplexing.

2. I had a pet chicken as a child. Her name was Rainbow.

3. I have a commanding knowledge of mid-90's alternative rock.

4. I was 17 when I had my first kiss.

5. B and I have pet names. We call each other booty or boot. It evolved from him calling me "beauty".

6. I have an unhealthy love for Triscuits.

Time to Tag back. You are supposed to tag 6 people, but I don't even know 6 people who read my blog. erm..
-of course, there's jaime over at Formerly Rojo
- The lovely Elizabeth Anne of Elizabeth Anne Designs

Ok, I'm tapped. A little sad...

Update: fabulous beautiful slip

2008-04-20T08:19:00.001-07:00

Well, hello friends! Just thought I'd give an update on the slip. It arrived on Friday, and there is some freaky-weird universe karma kismet something or other thing going on. It fits perfectly. I was sure that I would have to shorten it somehow (because I am 5'2.5". I have to shorten everything.) It is all that I ever wanted... swoon. The bummer: my alterations person had to reschedule my fitting that was supposed to happen today. So... now I have to wait until 5/4 until I can see my two lovelies together. Oh well...

I'm feeling under the weather, so I'm in no mood to take pictures... but if I happen to rally later today, I'll try to snap a few to share with you all.

Resistance is Futile

2008-04-16T11:25:00.000-07:00

I have been equally laboring over and procrastinating over one particular wedding-related project: my slip.

I've been fairly obsessed with this photo even wayyy before the wedding was even a glimmer in my eye:

image found here: models.com/oftheminute/?p=1288
(you might not be able to see well, but there is a layer of sheer dotted fabric)

Oh the many layers. The lace. The dots. Oh the glory of it all.

I couldn't find anything like this anywhere, but I lusted after it so. And, I actually needed some sort of slip, because my dress is fairly sheer. The industrious person that I am, I thought, "I WILL SEW IT MYSELF!" as if it was that easy. I found some really fantastic antique net lace on ebay... picked up some charmeuse at Joann's...I even bought a vintage pattern for kicks. The result...eh. It was not all the glory of Estee's add. It was cool, because I made it, but it just didn't do it for me. Plus, I didn't leave myself quite enough fabric at the bottom, so I think my dancing might have been inhibited. Anyway. I tried.

I happen to be traveling for work right now, and so while sitting around with nothing better to do, I hopped over to the danger zone: Ebay.

A few clicks. An innocent browse. Here's what I found:

(click for a larger image)

An audible and embarassing squeal popped out...

And then an even louder one... DOTS people DOTS! The underlayer is a sheer dotted fabric!

So, even though it was very expensive, and I'm sure my grandma will be very disappointed that I didn't see my craft project through, I don't think that my sewing skills can compete with such an amazing skirt/slip. From France, and perhaps from the nineteenth century.

Just incredible. The seller, French-at-heart has many other fabulous things. I just can't wait to try it on with my dress (on Sunday! BaH!)

Oh how I love a bargain..

2008-03-28T18:40:00.000-07:00

It just takes a little creativity

$15.99 original price, Safeway. Marked down to $4.00

So whilst shopping for Life cereal and mozzarella cheese, I found these beauties in a corner of the grocery store, with a bunch of easter related junk inside of them. Came for food, and left with wedding program/ paper fan holders. After almost a year of planning, this doesn't even surprise me anymore.

A little sneak preview..

2008-03-21T14:59:00.000-07:00

I've been working on programs... yay! I love all things paper.

Heinous..

2008-03-05T16:40:00.000-08:00

I am equally attracted and repulsed by the miscellaneous wedding crap that is out there.

Take this for example:

Truly heinous, right? I really wonder about the person who buys this, cause there have to be people who buy these things! Is it solely the people I watch on "Bridezillas"? (as I cover my eyes halfway in shame for my bride kind) I guess someone out there might LOVE this hat and think its the best thing ever. Maybe I'm just not a hat person...

Introducing... Loverrific!

2008-02-27T12:37:00.000-08:00

What is Loverrific? Well, first it's a word that I made up to describe things that make me very excited. Things that I covet; drool-worthy items seem made just for me (see my post on crochted candy corn).

And, Loverrific is also the name of my Etsy Store!

Loverrific... Fashion for Your Fridge

Click HERE to go to the Loverrific Store on Etsy

A few of my creations:

The inspiration behind Loveriffic came from my huge collection of fabric scraps. Some vintage, all FABULOUS. There really isn't a lot you can do with little squares of fabric, but I couldn't bear to part with it. I had been to a craft fair a while back where I purchased some really great refrigerator magnets that were made from great magazine clippings. I thought, hey! Why can't I do that with fabric? So, Loveriffic was born. I love doing it, and each set comes straight from my heart. Most are made from fabric, but some are made from magazine clippings (I currently have a wedding series, surprise surprise). Check out the stock early and often, as I'm constanly discovering new fabric (My fabric stash is a bottomless pit. I'm serious.) Or, if you are looking for a particular color or design scheme, purty please let me know. I'm sure I can hook you up.

xoxo,
Magnet Girl

Underpinnings

2008-02-22T23:49:00.000-08:00

I'm not calling them undies or lingerie anymore... it's all about underpinnings.

This might fall into the TMI category, but here are my wedding underpinnings:

Corset bra thing

btw, this is not me.

This is not my actual bra, because I found mine on sale at Loehman's, but these are so generic, you get the idea.

Here's the real pizazz:

Honeydew Rumba Panties (can be found at Nordstrom, Herroom.com, or if you're in SF, Red Dot)

I bought these lovelies a loooong time ago, because I thought "something blue" and they certainly will make B laugh. The pictured version is gingham, but mine are actually tiny blue hearts and polka dots. PERFECTION, I TELL YOU! Hearts, polka dots and ruffles. Really, could a girl ask for more?

Working On My Fitness

2008-02-21T15:34:00.000-08:00

I am a very goal-oriented person. If I can visualize the postive outcome, I can get through the grunt work effort. The wedding has been a perfect catalyst for getting in better shape, because as my a$$ is shaking and my arms feel limp, I simply picture my rockin' bod in my wedding dress and I can power through.

This will power of course does NOT cross over to food and dieting, but I'm trying. Eating less Cheetos counts, right?

Anyway, along with one of my fab bridesmaids, I am now committed to attending Bar Method classes (see www.barmethod.com) at LEAST 3x per week. For anyone out there in SF, LA or Chicago -- you must check it out! If you want quick turnaround kick it into shape kind of stuff, this is for you. Your muscles will ache. You will feel as if you can't go on. But you can, and you will feel amazing. Coming from someone who does NOT like to exercise in groups, this is high praise. I have been taking the classes on and off (mostly off) for the past year, and I instantly notice a difference in my body (and weirdly, my skin) after I start up again.

Anywhoots, that's my rant for the day. Hope yours was a good one.

EDIT: The Bar Method is an exercise class that combines ballet, pilates, yoga, etc etc. Basically, you are using your own body weight as resistance. Crazzzy.

I'm a-scared of my hair

2008-02-20T13:04:00.000-08:00

It's about 6 months until the big day, and what is my latest obsession? Guest lists, eh. Menu, whatev. Bands, welp, almost done deal.

Lately it's all about Hair Hair Hair.

Mostly, I have nightmares that it will look like this:

no no no.. Amy Winehouse

This deep-rooted fear dates way back to 1997. It's the homecoming dance. I have an awesome dress, sweet makeup, and some fab acessories. I had an image in my head of an elegant french twist, very simple and clean.

There were two things that went horribly wrong on this important night in my adolescent life:
1) My date was awful. He went down in history as The Wet Mop. And he strongly resembled a monkey. (It was a semi-blind date setup. Because I was that lame.)
2) My hair was RIDICULOUSLY LARGE.

I think all of the evidence was destroyed, but for posterity, I will look and see if I can find a pic and post it later.

I already have a large head. You might say, wha? Not its fine. Seriously people, doctors have commented on its largeness. I can't wear normal hats. So large hair + large head = badddd.

So, after I left the salon teased and sprayed to high heaven, I went home and cried. Cried and Cried. Cried because I was too shy to say I didn't like it. Cried because my mom had to shell out $30 for it. Cried because that's what you do when you are 15 and you feel like everyone is going to laugh at you (which my brother did. And then I cried again.) I think I ended up trying to tame it with some water, but it didn't help much, and there wasn't much time.

Enough "My Diary". So everytime I think about my wedding hair, I worry that I'll end up with something terrible. In my mind, I'd like to end up looking like this:

Or this:

Perhaps this:

So lets all cross our fingers. And if anyone has some east bay stylist recommendations, PLEASE send them my way!

It's just one day, right?

2008-01-30T20:44:00.000-08:00

I'm baaack...and a whole lot more grounded.

I tend to get into "modes" that are tough to escape from. Cleaning mode - I won't stop until the whole house is gleaming and free of every last dustbunny. It is so bad that I will look at the clock and say, "It's 3:53?!?" and I haven't eaten lunch.

Sewing mode: won't stop until the garment is completely constructed and the sleeves are set just right. Once I do finish, sometimes 4 or 5 hours later, I get up and realize that my back is killing me.

Wedding planning: the worst mode of all. I can be online researching and emailing and poring over blog after blog, and not realize that it is 2am and I have to be at work in 6 hours. It had to stop. Sensory overload. I became so sensitive about my choices that I had invested so much time into, I admit that I snapped at B, something to the effect "well if that's what you want, then DO IT YOURSELF!" I think the conversation was about cheese. Definitely a low point.

I tend to pile on tasks and responsibilities and goals without much thought to if I actually have the time and energy to do all of these things a) to my standards and b) while keeping my sanity.

Sometime right before Christmas, B brought some much needed perspective: It's just one day. It's just 6 hours. It's not that big a deal. Let's just have fun.

Sounds simple, but I really just needed to hear it. I now realize that I was taking on way too much and putting completely unnecessary pressure on myself, and sometimes, projecting my stress onto people who totally didn't deserve it.

I have a new attitude. I'm keepin' it in perspective. And if you see me falling off the deep end again, please dear friends, reel me in.

From now on, I am making time for myself. I am giving my complete attention to my loved ones (not just the blank stare while the planning list ticks in the back of my mind).

I know that our wedding is going to be a totally awesome and totally "us" day. I don't need Martha Stewart's candy buffet or those escort cards strung from birch branches. I've given myself a pass for perfection.

So, moving on. Stay tuned for those exciting new developments I hinted at last month. Some are wedding-related, and some aren't. <>

Long Time, No Post

2007-12-06T21:28:00.000-08:00

So, this in itself is a poor excuse for a post, but oh well.

Among all of the projects and diversions lately, my dear internet friends, you have come last. I apologize. I promise to pick back up after the new year, with many new and exciting announcements. The creativity has been flowing lately, and not just related to the wedding, praise jesus.

Until then, my best regards to you. And here is a picture of Alex P. Kitten eating the Christmas tree for your enjoyment.

Pomander on a Budget

2007-11-17T18:10:00.003-08:00

photo from marthastewart.com

So, while perusing Target today, I ran into this bath sponge.

Target bath sponge, $2.99 (found in cosmetics aisle)

My wedding obsessed brain said "Oh mah gaw - so cute for a flower girl!!" and it instantly went in the basket. Of course, my girls will carry baskets and actually throw petals (let's hope the 2 year old complies) and not bath sponge pomanders, but really, this is adorable! Because I obviously have way too much time on my hands, I grabbed some fancy gift ribbon, and tied it on for dramatic effect:

Ok, so if it is the day before your wedding and you wake up in a panic sweat only to realize that you had forgotten about your flower girls, this would be an option. A cheap one. They also come in light blue.

Cute? Or am I off my wedding rocker?

Kate Spade Sample Sale

2007-11-16T15:09:00.000-08:00

Oh mama....

Budget? What budget?

kate spade's "wedding puff" - sale price: $269, orig: $445

That purse looks kind of like something Alex P. Kitten would play with, but nonetheless - there are fab finds to be had! Motor over to http://www.katespade.com/category/index.jsp?categoryId=2130331 -- today's the last day!

How to Cozy Up the Reception

2007-11-15T21:19:00.000-08:00

The interior of our reception venue looks like this:

Really a nice neutral space with lots of natural light, which is what I love about it. But, as it gets late in the evening and darker outside, how do I make the space shine? How do I make it more cozy? Our centerpieces are pretty minimal, and we went with the ivory linens and chair covers -- and if you know me, you know I'm not so "minimal".

My venue coordinator suggested that we rent some trees strung with twinkle lights, like this:

So I contacted a few local plant rental companies, and found that it was kind of costly. $105/tree including lights and delivery, and we need 5-6 trees! That's a lot of green, hardy har har. So I guess I'm trying to figure out if it's worth it. We would place the trees around the perimeter of the room, and I like the idea of the twinkle lights ambient glow. Any other ideas?

99 Cent Michael's Find

2007-11-09T19:19:00.000-08:00

Not quite sure what I'm going to do with them...but super cute, right?

Gimme a Mai Tai and call it a day...

2007-11-08T18:16:00.000-08:00

One more check box...checked! This is where you'll find me in just 9 short months...

B and I are salivating over our honeymoon. Following the good advice of the Knot, I decided to book our flights extra early because we used my frequent flyer miles. Good thing I did, because there were NO flights into Kauai or Maui left (luckily Honolulu was still fairly open). This is more than 9 months out, people! Anyway, because of my super-fabulous job, I had plenty of miles to pay for both of our plane tickets (an $1800 value) and seven of our thirteen (!!) nights are also free (one bajilion dollars value). Howdja do it, you ask? Well, I use ONE credit card for every darn thing (including business expenses - i.e. dinner for 35 people - which obviously adds up). I use the Starwood American Express, which I highly recommend. One free week at the Westin Maui, hellsyes. You get 1 point/dollar spent on ANYTHING, plus I travel so darn much I am GOLD, so I get 3 points/dollar at every Starwood stay. Whoop! You can use the points for Sheraton, Westin, W Hotels, Saint Regis, etc.

So, we'll be spending 5 days in Maui, 6 days in Kauai and 2 days in Honolulu. Neither B or I have ever visited Hawaii, so it is extra special. Any advice? Leave it below... Oh man, I'm going to be so tan.

BENEFIT BEAUTY SQUAD!

2007-11-03T14:57:00.000-07:00

I would like to introduce the newest member of the Benefit Beauty Squad: ME!!

That's Benefit Cosmetics, people, and I am so honored! I would like to thank the Academy and Alex P. Kitten and the producer and... I think you probably know from my previous posts, but I really love Benefit products, and I saw the opportunity to apply to the squad - and whodathunkit? I made it!

(click image for larger view)

Pretty sweet, yes? Today I got a package in the mail with my Official Benefit Beauty Squad Certificate (which I will cherish and love always), a book about the history of Benefit Cosmetics, a nice note, magnets, pins -- best for last -- Benetint and Bad Gal Lash! Freebies! I love Freebies! Be sure to check out www.benefitcosmetics.com for all of their fabulous stuff (I'm very intrigued by Ms. Poularity...)

So, stay in touch to hear more about the latest and greatest from Benefit cause you know I gots the scoop!

The Great Registry Caper

2007-10-28T17:45:00.000-07:00

So, not exactly as exciting and madcap as the Muppets version, but you get the idea.

I had not planned on registering for gifts until at least January, but apparently that was not a good idea. B's relatives had started to prod about registries and china and all that other hoopla, so we bit the bullet. We registered.

We started off our journey on Saturday at Macy's Union Square. Considering that there are 3 giant floors of housewares wonder, we thought this was the best place to go. Plus Macy's is nationwide (making both sides of the family happy) and has an easy online ordering system.

This particular Macy's seems to be the Registry Mecca, as they had a whole section of the 6th floor roped off with 6 computer stations just waiting for all of the pre-nuptial couples of the bay area. I have to admit I was impressed by the view given to the registry department: floor to ceiling view of the square. Nice that they realize just how many dollars we wedding people are generating.

We sat down with a registry specialist and gave her all of our pertinent info (names, date, shipping address), she showed us how to use the scan gun, and we were off. I thought that I had been preparing my whole shopping life for this moment, but we were instantly overwhelmed. The registry area was situated right next to the flatware, and honestly, it all looked the same. Yeah, there were some gilded overly formal ones and more sleek and modern ones -- but all I really wanted was a few forks that matched! The fact that there were about 85 different choices seemed utterly unecessary. So, we ended up picking one that "coordinated" with our china (Kate Spade's Library Lane). It really was a very arbitrary decision.

Our China

Larabee Dot coordinating plates

After we decided on china, we felt a little better about ourselves. Luckily, Macy's Union Square has a food court in the cellar (where there are MORE homegoods), so we had a nice rest stop at Jamba Juice and Tom's Cookies. We definitely needed to refuel.

We found some more fabulous stuff (lots of Martha Stewart Collection - YOU KNOW IT!) and three hours later, we were done.

Being that I want to have a wide variety of items and prices to choose from, we also registered at Target, my trusty friend. You can get pretty much anything you ever wanted at Target (and they have the cutest versions of all of those things!) You can get even more at Target.com. Anyway, given that we had the Macy's experience behind us and my black-belt in TargetShopping -- the second registry was a breeze!

my friend, the Target gun

My favorite part of registering (and totally unexpected) were the free gifts! Macy's gave us a cute red Swiss Army tote bag:

And Target a plastic bag filled with 1) a registry wishbook 2) little cards to stick into your shower invitations 3)my favorite - 5 free wedding song downloads on ITunes.

Awesome! And with a little web-sleuthing, I have found that there are several other freebies through Macy's once people buy things off of your registry (i.e. free baking pans from All Clad) which is on top of their 5% Star Rewards Program (I get a gift card for 5% of the total purchased. BOO YAH!)

I also have to admit that I have been covertly adding to my Amazon.com registry for a few weeks now... so we also have that one. I hope that my friends and family are tech savvy enough to head over there, because it has a lot of super cool things on it.

Ok, so now I need to go take a nap. What a weekend!

Buff Me to a Shine!

2007-10-22T22:44:00.000-07:00

Excessive exclamation points aside, I was blown away by this beauty product!! ! !

Call me dense, but I never really understood buffing one's nails. I got that there was usually a "soft" side to a nail file, but I never realized it's true purpose in life. Well one beauty sucker + one mall kiosk = fabulously buffed and shiny nails.

I won't get into the dead sea salt face creams that I had to purchase in order to get the "free" manicure set... oh well.

Anywho, it appears that you can purchase this set all on its own from Onsen Secret, where they sell for $34.95 (holy moly!) so perhaps the mallrat did give me a good deal.

From the Onsen website:
Onsen Nail Care products are guaranteed to make you say “Wow”! Utilizing a 3-step buffing system, you can have gorgeous glossy nails without polish or chemicals. Onsen cuticle conditioner is loaded with Vitamin A and E, Shea Butter and Aloe Vera to effectively soften and moisturize dry cuticles while promoting healthy nail growth. Onsen Nail Care Kits include everything you need for naturally beautiful hands and nails.

And I agree! It's awesome, and with everybody grabbing my hands to ogle my wonderful ring, I might as well put my best nails forward. I even used it on B, who has the WORST nails ever from being a chronic biter. After complaining about being fussed over, he agreed that his nails looked great.

It is very possible that there is a similar buffing device at Walgreen's that I have simply overlooked my entire beauty-obsessed life -- so if you find something more budget-friendly, please do share. I generally advise avoiding the sketchball mall kiosks, but in the instance, I am pleasantly surprised. As far as the dead sea salt stuff goes, I'll have to keep you posted.

"Sweet" Idea of the Day!

2007-10-18T11:33:00.001-07:00

I want to have a candy buffet! This is not necessarily new and noteworthy, but it is a good way to use SEVERAL bowls and vases that I purchased early in the planning process (and have since abandoned).

like these, except sadly no boot

I purchased (I think 13 in total, bad Katie) vintage milk glass bowls and vases on eBay for my first hair-brained wedding scheme: Vintage Preppy. All blush pink and navy. B nixed this idea. I'm so happy because I love my new peachy plan.

Anywho, I didn't spend a ton of money on this reject glassware, but it is taking up prime real estate in my crafting corner. I couldn't bring myself to resell it, partly because I really like it, and partly out of laziness. So, I think I'll scare up some clear vintage glass to hold more colorful candies, and to mix up the variety. Now, the question is, which candies to choose??

No Tschotskes, please

2007-10-16T19:57:00.000-07:00

While I really do love the gilded leaf given to me at a recent wedding,
I'm not a huge fan of favors (besides the edible ones). I have SO MUCH
STUFF in my life, that I kinda get uncomfortable adding to other
people's "stuff" and potentially fill the landfill with unwanted tschotskes.

all images from the knot Willi and Jon's Wedding

In lieu of a traditional favor, we decided to have a classic photobooth! How super fun is that? We are BIG photobooth fans and take any and every opportunity to ham it up in one. The photo strips from early in our relationship (taken at Balboa) are some of the things I would grab in a fire. I might grab my kitten first, but the photobooth strips are a close second.

We are going to incorporate this with our guest book. We'll have some glue dots and a pair of scissors handy to cut and paste a pic in the book, along with a nice note. So much more fun than the traditional "sign here", right? I'll enlist one of my cousins to sit by and help people with the process so everything runs smoothly.

The awesome thing about these is that we will get a digital file of every image taken throughout the night. Everyone can take their photo strips home, but we will know what went down in the booth! Mums the word on this fact - I don't want our guests to know that we'll see the outcome - let the debauchery begin!

After much research, we chose one from Classic Photo Booth really only because they were the cutest, and they were very prompt with information via email. These are NOT budget friendly, but we feel like it was the ONE thing we really wanted to splurge on. The classic photo booth (including 5 hours of rental, on-site technician, setup/teardown, unlimited photos, applicable taxes) is $1800.

Another option in the Bay Area - Red Cheese -slightly more affordable, but an eyesore in my opinion. This included all above, and the cost was approx. $1600.

There are a few others (just google "photobooth" and your city, and some should pop up), but these two were the best with communication. Several companies just didn't call/email me back. Their loss!

Yay! I love this so much!

Nobody puts Baby in the corner

2007-10-11T19:33:00.000-07:00

B and I love to sit at weddings and make bets as to which songs will play during the course of the night. The chicken dance and Cotton-Eyed Joe are generally pretty safe bets, but we also have special "Celine Dion Categories" and the ever favorite Abba. Michael Buble is on the cusp of his own category as well. At the last wedding 2 weekends ago, we were pleasantly surprised during dinner by Pete Townshend's "Let My Love Open the Door"(enjoy the wacky YouTube video). I really REALLY really love this song.

I could go on for days on the interesting choices that couples make as far as songs go (I am very lyric-focused, so maybe I'm just unusual). "Into the Mystic" by Van Morrison is a common wedding offender. It's a great song, but its about death, people!

This couple also played "I Had the Time of My Life" (you know it - Dirty Dancing) as the last song, which was fantastic until B tried to show off his Swayze moves, lifting me up, and subsequently sharing my underwear with the entire room. Classy, no. Ridiculously fun, yes.

So, after the panty incident, B and I decided that we would DEFINITELY have the DD classic as our last song as well. Question is, what are our other "important" songs going to be? I know there is going to be serious push and pull on this one, because we both have such strong opinions on music.

My choices for first dance:

1) "Where Are You Going" by Dave Matthews Band (this has 9/11 undertones, but it has always reminded me of B. I listened to it obsessively the fall he was studying abroad. B might agree with this choice.)

2) "Eyes" by Rogue Wave (such a friggin beautiful song and -bonus- short. B will not agree because it is "too indie".)

3) "Something So Right" by Paul Simon (really wonderful in meaning, and sentimental b/c B included this in one his first CD compilations for me).

4) "The Man" by Pete Yorn and Natalie Maines. This is simply one of the most gorgeous songs, and if I could figure out what it is about, then I could def. convince B, because he loves it, too. (PS - you MUST click the link for this video - so touching. I cried)

So those are my thoughts -- what are yours? This is just ONE song...geez. I have a lot of work ahead of me!

Myspace follow-up

2007-10-10T22:46:00.000-07:00

photo from sologuitarman.com

The band search has been a total and utter failure so far.

Band one has a member who is getting married herself 2 weeks before my wedding, and can't do it.

Band two seems very well organized and experienced, and sound fantastic, but has a price to match.

I just can't win! Any other suggestions? There have to be struggling starving musicians out there, right? All I want is a mandolin for cripes sake, is that too much to ask?!

DIY Ring Bearer Pillow

2007-10-08T20:48:00.000-07:00

There is not an abundance of orange ring bearer pillows available out there, so what else could a girl do? Pull out the sewing machine, of course!

Materials:

I found the most gorgeous orange dupioni silk on ebay for only $9.99/yard - a completely ridiculous price for such good quality silk (click here to check it out - the seller has a rainbow of colors). Then I found a super wide (3.5 inches) double faced ivory satin ribbon (need about a yard) and also a thinner matching ribbon (1 inch - also need about a yard). Additionally, you will need matching thread and some poly-fiberfill.

Directions:

1.) Cut 2 squares of silk to desired size (I chose 6x6).

2.) Cut each ribbon in half.

3.) Take one wide and one thin ribbon and arrange the thin ribbon in the center and on top of the wide ribbon.

4.) On the "wrong" side of one of the silk squares, arrange both lined-up ribbons' ends in the middle of one side of the square with long ends pointing toward the middle of the square.

5.) Arrange the other silk square on top of the ribbon ("right" side up). (This can get a little slippery - be careful)

6.) Using a sewing machine, stitch over both layers of silk and ribbons, being sure to leave at least a 1/2 inch seam allowance.

7.) Repeat on other side. There will be a lot of ribbon on the inside of the squares.

8.) Finish sewing off the bottom seam of the squares.

9.) Sew the top, but leave a 3 inch opening for the stuffing.

10.) Turn the pillow right-side out.

11.) Stuff the pillow. I use a pencil (not too sharp) to get into the corners.

12.) Use a hand blind hemstitch to finish off the pillow.

You're done!

Now you have a pretty fat ribbon for a nice bow, and a thin ribbon to attach the rings (or "for show" rings - which is what I might do). I wrapped the wide ribbon around like a present and left the thin in the middle and trimmed the excess.

Pretty, right?

Brilliant idea: Myspace

2007-10-08T17:01:00.000-07:00

So, I have been scratching my head for a few weeks trying to find musicians to play during our wedding ceremony. B and I want a bluegrass band, which isn't all that typical for weddings. We can't wait to hear "here comes the bride" with a mandolin in the background. PERFECTION!

Anyway, I have contacted a few bands that I have found through google, but they are all rather expensive. Considering it is an hour of their time, I really do not think $900 is a reasonable price. Pshaw!

I had a lightbulb moment last night: Myspace! Not only good for lurking around old high school classmates pages, also good for finding musicians! I did a music search by location and found FOUR indie bands that seem like they will meet our needs. I just sent each band a quck message asking "do you play private events?" and have already heard back from two. TWO YESES! Now I'm just waiting on their pricing...wish me luck!

Why I love Etsy

2007-10-05T01:33:00.001-07:00

Really, need I say more? Well.. I will.

Click here to visit the magical world of Etsy. Here you can find the most awesomely unique handmade jewelry, clothing, housewares - and a crochet candycorn, of course. I really truly madly deeply (Savage Garden, anyone?) love candy corn. There's a special crevice of my heart carved out just for the pumpkin-shaped kind, so needless to say, I could not resist this crafty goodness made by EternalSunshine. Click here to get your own. OOO and stop by Marzipan'spage for some ridiculously cute jewlery. Stylish bridesmaid acessories, I declare. Loverrific.

And Guest?

2007-10-04T23:31:00.000-07:00

B and I received a wedding invitation in the mail today addressed to "B____ Lastname and Guest". This invitation came from the son of B's mother's very good friend (someone B has know for years AND we both spent Christmas with last year), so really, what gives? We are engaged. We have been dating for 6+ years. SOMEONE had to call B's mom for our address, they couldn't have asked for my name? I know it had to have been embarrassing that they FORGOT my name after spending hours with me last December, but still, suck it up and ask! There are certainly people out there who I will blank on, but before I send that invitation, I plan to ask someone. Why? Because Emily Post and Martha say so. Am I overreacting? Have you ever received an invitation like this?

A flawless face

2007-09-21T22:17:00.000-07:00

On the makeup roll --

Faced with a no plans Friday night, I decided to do something I haven't done in the longest time: play with makeup!

As mentioned in my post earlier today, I may be doing my own wedding day makeup. I have one major request: a flawless face. No blemishes, smooth as silk, glowing perfection. If this must be done through layers of makeup, so be it. I really am concentrating on my skincare regimen (more on this later) to put my best canvas forward, but you never know with my skin. One day clear, the next day landmines.

So here's what I came up with:

1. Start with a light application of Oil of Olay Definity Foam - found at your local drugstore (for a touch of shimmer and glow). This is light and airy as well as moisturizing, a good alternative to the Philosophy Hope in a Jar. Wait 2 minutes before step 2 to allow foam to set in.

2. Trouble shoot any blemished areas with concealer (I like Laura Mercier - Department stores).

3. Apply Loreal True Match Foundation (drugstores - I use color N3) liberally with a taclon bristled foundation brush (I reccommend Cargo # 20 - Sephora) making sure to blend into hairline and along jawline in an upward sweeping motion. Wait 2 minutes for foundation to set into skin.

4. Pat just a bit of transclucent powder under your eyes (Laura Mercier)

5. Apply eyeshadow primer to the eyelid with your ring finger (Benefit's F.Y. Eye is best).

6. Draw a pencil thin line of liquid eyeliner close to your lash line (I use Physician's Formula Eye Definer Felt Tip Eye Marker in Ultra Black)

7. Using the lighter shade of Loreal's HIP Shadow Duo in Shady, apply all over the lid and slightly above the crease with a wide brush (I like Cargo # 8 - Sephora). Using the darker shade, apply only to crease and slightly into the lashline with a small shadow brush, forming a squished letter "c".

8. Curl your eyelashes.

9. Apply mascara and comb out clumps.

10. Apply individual false eyelashes (see a tutorial on You Tube).

11. Use Benefit's Brow Zing to fill in brows.

12. Use Benefit's High Brow highlighting pencil just above browbone (blend well) and in the inner corner of the eye for a pop.

13. Dot Benefit's Benetint cheek stain from apple to the corner of the eye. Blend.

14. Apply Benefit's Benetint stain to lips (double duty!) Top lips with clear gloss.

Voila! Simple but pretty and camera-ready face. I forgot how much fun this was! Plus B said I look pretty ;) and that's all that counts.

Result:

Looking at this picture, next time I will probably go a little heavier on the eye shadow and apply mascara to my bottom lashes. I will also fill in (and tame! sheesh) my unruly eyebrows. I might also try some Benefit Glamazon bronzer under the foundation. Ah - another day.

Closeup of my falsies:

That Gal!

2007-09-21T10:50:00.000-07:00

My name is Katie and I'm a makeup-aholic. The first step to recovery is admitting I have a problem, right? Yeah, let's see how that goes.

Benefit is by far one of my favorite cosmetics companies, here's why: It's a kick ass woman run company, they have fantastic quality products (that are generally highly pigmented), and wonderfully attractive packaging. Check check check.

My newest find is "that gal!":

Here's Benefit's writeup:
Go from dull to darling with "that gal." It's a silky pink primer that makes skin appear smoother & brighter. Wear alone for clear complexion radiance or apply before makeup for smooth, effortless application. Re-brighten during the day with "that gal." It's "that gal" perfection for a happy complexion.

Pretty promising, right? Well, how can a girl turn it down? So I slapped down my $27 at Sephora (always Sephora, ladies, they return/exchange ANYTHING. If you've used it to the nub, they still don't care. Not that I've done that...)

Results: I really did look brighter and happier after using, and didn't feel like I had to wear any foundation/power. Everything just looked smoother. This formula is super light and soaks right in, so there was no greasey yuck. It also lasted well throughout the day and I felt kept my tzone from shining up. I just felt pretty and au-natural, very "What? I just woke up this way..."

The one drawback is that the tube is a bit small for the price, and the schmancy dispensing mechanism seems to dispense too much product at one time, thus wasting your precious valuables.

Grade: B+

I am going through many trials of different primers in preparation for the wedding makeup, which I may just do myself. I always hate it when other people do my makeup.

Here I am with just some moisturizer (my most favorite in the whole wide world trust me I have tried 'em all- Philosophy Hope in a Jar) and that gal smoothed on my cheeks, forehead, nose and a bit on my chin. I am also wearing whatever drugstore mascara was on sale.

And lets not forget my dead sexy turban towel. Peace out!

Oh, The Martha

2007-09-13T21:38:00.000-07:00

So, one wedding related thing that I just can't WAIT to do is to go and register for gifts. I don't say this in a blood thirsty "GIVE ME PRESENTS, DAMMIT!!!" kind of way, but more of a "It's just like shopping, but not spending any money" kind of way. In fact, I highly doubt we will get many things off our registry (I personally don't like to shop off of them) - I just SO look forward to using the scanner. I also think it would be great to pick one truly random strange item and register for it if only to delight (or confuse?) those poor souls using a valuable part of their weekend buying us a present.

I am still deciding which stores I want to take my business to, but Target is a clear front runner -- and now -- DUM DA DA DUM -- Macy's has a spankin' new Martha Stewart Collection!!!!!!!! Be still my heart! Check it out here (but be forewarned of strange floating talking Martha flash animation).

Linens, towels and serveware, OH MY! I especially love the bedding set above (however all white and Alex P. is not all that practical) and really just all the Martha goodness. It's like Kmart, but so much better.

Doesn't this look like so much fun?

So, back to my original point - Macy's is store # 2 on my list. And perhaps Amazon. And the folks at Williams Sonoma are just so friendly...

Peachy Keen

2007-09-11T22:53:00.000-07:00

photo borrowed from photos.com

After many iterations and deliberations, I have decided on my theme colors -- golden yellow, fiery orange and deep red (with accents of white, ivory, and sage). I was inpsired by a friend's beautifully simple wedding centerpieces - bowls filled with peaches! Pleasing to the eye, plus a snack, all rolled into one. Bonus.

So, my plan is to have 1/2 of my centerpieces as clear glass vases filled with peaches (pics to come) and a nice orange dupioni silk ribbon tied around (and perhaps some amber colored votives). Going for a warm summery feel - what is more summery than a peach - tell me!

The other 1/2 of the centerpieces will be low cylinder vases filled with white hydrangea and hypericum berries (with the same dupioni ribbon). Thanks Florals by Karen of Moraga for being awesome and meeting my *strict* budget guidlines.

Martha's Lacy Luminarias

2007-08-30T22:26:00.000-07:00

What better way to christen the craft area than a Martha Stewart project? I first saw this idea in my very own official Martha Stewart Keepsake Wedding Planner -- and Ms. Martha so graciously includes the directions here.
Materials:

It's super easy and only took about 10 minutes to make 2. The hardest part was finding the paper bags (I found these generic ones at Michaels for .29 each). Another hard thing was when I got to Michaels, I found a vested person with a nametag and said, "Hi - where are the doilies?" and he looked at me like I had 3 heads and said, "uhhhh... what's a doily??". The funny thing was, it escaped me at that moment what exactly a doily's purpose in life is - so stock guy and I had a little moment of befuddlement, until a lady employee wandered along and said "Aisle 34B - CAKES". Yes, folks, doilies are made for CAKES. Of course.

Finished product:

Sorry the pic is so dark, but hey, it's a luminaria. It's supposed to be dark. I'm very happy with the way this turned out. I think I shall use these on my guest book table - gracias for the suggestion, Martha.

Krazy Katie's Krafty Korner

2007-08-28T19:08:00.000-07:00

Woot! Finally finally I have my crafting area. We are one of few lucky city dwellers with x-tra large closets (we have 3 walk-ins) one of which I have always thought was just big enough to accommodate all of my crafting needs (and also house Alex P. Kitten's litterbox - so unglamorous). So we went to Ikea and bought a white cabinet with shelves and sliding doors (I *would* tell you which cabinet, but who can remember all of those svedka grundel wilkommen Swedish names? I do remember it cost $149). The white cabinet holds many baskets and rubbermaid boxes filled with stickers, thread, rubber stamps, oh my. Also at Ikea, we purchased 2 picture ledges whose sole purpose is to display and highlight my beloved collection of small toys and figurines (Jaime, thanks for Gumby and Goo. Sadly, Gumby has gone missing. I suspect Alex P. snatched him with his little paws and hid him somewhere).

Perhaps my favorite part of my crafting area is the ribbon rod. It's just like a fabric store! B and I put this together DIY-style. We went to our local Ace and found some rod holders that are actually "cafe curtain brackets" whatever those are. We purchased a thin wooden dowel to thread the ribbon spools onto and voila. Ribbon dispenser. (The picture below is B installing the brackets. What a good fiance).

And the end product...

So, notice the big stack o' wedding magazines in the first pic? Gotta get through those soon (my florist has instructed me to find pictures of bouquets. More on that later). Anywho, I can do a good amount of stamping and collage here, but unfortunately the dining room table is still the hot spot for sewing. Ah well.

Let the wedding crafting begin!

Urban Outfitters Sale!

2007-08-28T18:01:00.000-07:00

Check it out! Lovely (bridal gown matching) sunglasses found at Urban Outfitters for only $2.49! Bargains galore -- all sale items are now an additional 50% off.

To video or not to video? That is the question.

2007-08-23T21:53:00.000-07:00

I attended a wedding recently where the bride and groom were stalked the entire evening paparazzi style by 3 people. 1) Photographer (tolerable) 2) Videographer (errrrrr) 3) Videographer's assistant with giant blinding light and boom microphone (not on your life). I generally am annoyed by cameras in my face, so I instantly ruled out the videographer when I did my initial planning and budgeting, patting myself on the back for being so frugal. Then I came across this...

Ayyyyyyy. Maybe I have PMS or something, but my eyes welled up while watching this. I had an instant urge of "I WANT THIS!!!!!!" but am I just being overly emotional? Is it really practical? Will I watch it more than once? It costs a pretty penny -- should I just pick up a Super 8 camera on ebay and enlist a cousin? Advice, people, advice. Please chime in.

Officiant Woes

2007-08-22T22:14:00.000-07:00

So, as previously mentioned, I've been stressing about who was actually going to marry B and I (you know, sort of the whole REASON for all of the nonsense). I finally found some monks who could do it (FREE!!) and what did B have to say about this?

"Sounds weird".

I must admit now that I had a mini 'zilla moment, I may have raised my voice, and I may have said something along the lines of "WTF!!! YOU THINK ITS SO EASY??!! YOU TRY FInDING SOMEONE TO MARRY TWO NON-RELIGIOUS PEOPLE!!!!"

Bs annoyingly calm response - "I dunno - what about the mayor?"

Then we decide that Brian's one shining wedding task will be to find the officiant. And that's that. (of course he has a deadline, though). I'll keep ya posted.

These ARE my shoes

2007-08-15T18:56:00.000-07:00

So, to give you a little somethin' - these are actually my shoes. They are 184% perfection and wonderous goodness champagne/nude Manolo Blahnik Jeweled Satin Sandal. Anyone who knows me knows that I have an affection for shoes, and I took this bridal opportunity to go all out. Before you think I've completely lost my marbles, I (of course) found these designer lovelies at the Neiman Marcus Last Call Sale for 64% off. That being said, they were still rather expensive and I'm sure I could have found a more cost-conscious shoe, but these are my true loves and you just can't put a price on that.

Before I hear anything from the naysayers, I am a big girl. I can (and often do) walk in 4 inch heels and I am no ameteur to the ankle wrap strap. My mother keeps saying that these shoes are a danger. Oh pshaw.

This is NOT my dress

2007-08-13T18:44:00.001-07:00

However, it is very similar. I realized that I can't very well discuss my "look" without giving some clues to the dress. Duh. For the benefit of those out there who will actually attend the wedding, I'm not going to post my actual dress pictures. I think a girl has to keep some secrets. Anyway, THE dress is ivory silk organza with a very simple silhouette - not a lot of fullness. It is by Pronovias and was purchased at the Glamour Closet for 65% off retail (it is a sample gown). Loverrrific. It is sitting in my coat closet right now - chilling for its big moment in about 350 days. Hi dress - love ya. (PS - the dress above can be found here - and it's ridiculously cheap).

On the road planning

2007-08-08T21:32:00.000-07:00

Here I am in Boston! I am on the road pretty often for work, so basically I spend a fair amount of time fiddling my thumbs in hotel rooms at odd hours of the night when I should be sleeping, but my "brain time" is actually 3 hours earlier. So, what's a girl to do? The comfy bed, the free wireless internet, bad TV -- a perfect recipe for online wedding research. Time to hit google, and hit it hard. I really need to find an officiant for our ceremony, but am having a terrible time. Everyone that I seem to find online has too much of a Stevie Nicks/Earth Mother look or they are crazy overpriced. I get it -- prey on the non-church-going crowd and make them pay for their guilt. Maybe I can convince someone to get ordained for the event - any takers out there?? Wish me luck...

Banana Republic sale find

2007-08-07T18:33:00.000-07:00

I have been very budget-conscious lately, and have been trying to curb spending - however - "wedding related" expenses can usually be justified in my mind. Add in a bargain, and I am guilt free. Today I found the most surprising item on sale at Banana Republic -- this lovely beaded pearly goodness of a bracelet. I love it on it's own for it's sparkle, but instantly classifed it under "bridal" because of the pearl accents (key to my "look"). The salesperson at the bridal shop where I purchased my dress advised against a bracelet, because she didn't want me to worry about snagging, and I generally agree with her, but this bracelet is not rough and the clasp is a toggle, so I think its safe. And, for $19.99 (marked down from $48), who could resist? I have seen similar looks in bridal magazines for $300 and up - but let's be honest - I would never spend that much on costume jewelry. There's even a craze on eBay (like this one).

Hello big world...

2007-08-06T21:24:00.000-07:00

Being that I am such a huge fan of many blogs out there, it is so very daunting a thought to start one of my own. Lo and behold, little Katie is finally getting married, and now is the time for virtual moral support. The *day* is in August 2008 in Oakland, CA, and though I have just under one year to figure things out, I have one gazillion ideas floating through my head, and not a whole lot of focus. This will be my forum to test out DIY projects, creative ideas, and planning tips - as well as seeking advice on simply how to deal with things. Stay tuned - there is much more to come.

(PS - the picture above is where the ceremony will take place at the Dunsmuir House)