A10CalGal

Quote: Originally Posted by jpkw I ordered mine through my coordinator. They are $2.50 per sparkler (for the giant ones). Christa - is this what you paid? Also, Christa - did you make some announcement or something when you used them after dinner, or how did it work? Hey Jen, Yes, that's exactly what I paid thru Maye. And we had such a small group (16), we didn't do an announcement really. I just said "oh shit, we have sparklers!" And everybody started lighting them!

Ok, so other than wine & cheese extravaganzas, here's what we like to do: Drive down to Big Sur, (where we had our first date & where he asked me to marry him), and listen to live music on Sunday, have a few drinks & a late lunch. Then we usually come in & sit by the fire for a little while - good memories there. Mountain bike riding - something we used to do ALL the time when we first started dating...not as much these days. But, I really enjoy doing active things together - getting all sweaty & what not. Take a picnic to the beach. Lately - Go on a motorcycle ride & have a late lunch. And, every Tuesday we meet up for sushi.

Quote: Originally Posted by jak27 One of our favorite things to do is have a wine & cheese night. We don't make dinner at all, instead, we head to a gourmet grocery store and load up on olives, cheese, crackers/break and wine. We come home, make a huge spread and watch something stupid on TV like Cops or 48 Hours Mystery! It sounds lame but it's great that something as easy as changing up routine can make an evening enjoyable. Plus, we love each other's company, so we could do nothing at all and still have a blast. Jill! We do the same thing sometimes! Nothing better than great wine, yummy cheese, some fresh bread & olives.

I had the giant sparklers & we used them after dinner, when we were nice & toasty - it was so much fun! We actually almost forgot about them. You definitely need at least one for every person.

So sweet! Your story gave me goose bumps!

Best wishes for a fantastic wedding day - congratulations!

Yes!!! I'm so happy Erik did the right thing here. I'm releived for you Andrea. And, Erick: sorry you hate us, but we're right!!

Wow - that is a fantastic deal!! Where are the pics though?

Yay, glad he got his stuff together! Yep, I'm pretty sure if you can survive building a home together, you are good to go. And, I am so totally there when you decide to have guests!

Congratulations Laura - beautiful pictures!

Well I'm glad you've got a plan, but why is Erik not involved in this discussion? It's his mother...I really encourage you to ask him to at least be there to back you up. You shouldn't have to be the "bad guy", you know?

I used what was called a mariachi trio. My coordinator arranged for them, so I don't know the name of the group. They were $320/hour. They were perfect for our small group - they played for our ceremony & cocktail hour. I thought they were great, as did my guests.

Yeah, and seriously, this whole "wiring" thing is really just a fricking extension cord plugged into the end of some sort of thin wire that runs all the lanterns accross the reception area. I really don't think it requires $180 worth of anything, be it labor or material. It's a racket I tell ya!

Angela, Remember, I did not get married at Dreams The electrical set up was for Maye's "electrician" to set up the wiring for the lanterns. I didn't bring a thing. I paid for the lanterns & the set up. Badda bing, badda boom.

Kosher dude ranches?? whoa! Anyway - yes, I think this article makes an excellent point. A human being is definitely the way to go!

I think Glenda has a good idea - a two tiered MOtM system. Tier One: Recent Brides = SARAH ALL THE WAY BABY! Her review was so detailed and explanatory- years from now people will benefit from it! Tier Two: Not married yet/Planners = Courtney(Ninibride)...she's just so sweet & always on and darnit, I like her!

I say if he's that big of a hassle, then your parents get to manage him...

Very diplomatic of you! Well, I'm sure the rest of your family is well aquainted with this behavior? Will it come as a surprise?

Really? Hmmm, what are you worried about? Is he just in that every thing gross & disgusting is cool phase? Will he pull pranks?

I agree with Kelly! Don't under estimate the ability of a 15 year old to behave appropriately, and actually be entertaining to others. I would not do a "kiddie" table. Spread them around where ever makes sense - like with their parents? Other favorite relatives? It will be fine no matter what

Hey Glenda, OK, I've attached my budget summary. I think the only thing not on there are the koozies I bought for my guests @ approx $90. Hope this helps!!Attachment 641 budget summary only.xls

That's a really pretty dress, but I just couldn't trust a vendor that would charge $431.80 for shipping!

I love, love, love your announcements! So unique. I would definitely keep that on my fridge for a while

Quote: Originally Posted by NABUMBAH at this point, I would say elope in Cabo in July. I was thinking the same thing as Tasha. I hate to sound like a bitch, but I can tell you that when it comes time for Erik's mom to pay for all of her "extras" it going to cause a big ass issue...this will be an ongoing battle. Stand up for yourself now. Enough with the change of plans - seriously.

Drea, My seamstress wanted me to begin the process one month prior to the wedding date - which kind of freaked me out, but worked out perfectly. At the time I was her only bride though, as she's trying to retire...I would get started finding a seamstress & asking their opinion on timeline ASAP!