Lisacope's 6/26/2008 DFTW VR PJ - Started TR, some pix

[Lisacope]

I thought it was probably about time that I started a planning journal. First off, a little about us. I grew up in Southern California. I was working as a contract programmer and met DH on the job in 1985 or 1986 when I was about 21. He was working at TRW as a programmer and I started working there as a contractor (temporary worker). He was the person who escorted me in on the first day! I think it was love at first sight!
This was us then:
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DFTW%20Vow%20Renewal%20Planning%20Pictures/brucelisa1986.jpg
We got married on May 28, 1988 at a very pretty little church in Pasadena. The reception was in the hall that was attached to the church. My brother was my photographer, one of our groomsmen's wife did the catering, and we had a grand time! The church was nestled in a neighborhood of not very amused people - they called the cops when the reception got noisy! The band that played at the reception is still in business - they played recently at my nephew's graduation party! We then moved to Redmond, WA in April of 1989 so that we could both work at Microsoft.
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DFTW%20Vow%20Renewal%20Planning%20Pictures/BruceLisaWedding.jpg
Now fast forward to 2004
We now had two great kids – DS14 and DD7. I was no longer a programmer – I am now a horse trainer. DH and I had had a rough time that year and I got this idea that spending Christmas at WDW with our two kids would be just the thing to end on a good note. It sure was! We are now certified Disney Nuts and I think our kids are too!
DD7:
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DFTW%20Vow%20Renewal%20Planning%20Pictures/LauraBelle.jpg
DD14 (In gray shirt):
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DFTW%20Vow%20Renewal%20Planning%20Pictures/StuandBenonMainStreet.jpg
Now fast forward to 2007
Next year will be our 20th wedding anniversary. We have certainly had our ups and downs but mostly we are still a couple of kids in love!
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DFTW%20Vow%20Renewal%20Planning%20Pictures/BruceLisaKissing.jpg
(Continued)

[hiwaygal]

I think you have enough posts (I think you need 50).

Have you loaded your photos to a photo hosting site like photobucket?

[Lisacope]

What better way to celebrate this than to have a big 'ol bash in the happiest place on earth? While we were on our annual WDW trip this last June, we met with Joe DeMatei to talk about possible locations and dates for our VR. Now, I had already been a bride with all of the anxieties of being one - I wanted this to be as fun and relaxed as possible - so we wanted a location that would not be dependent on weather and my husband wanted air conditioning - so we chose the WP for our VR and told Joe that we wanted the reception location inside as well. We also wanted a June date because of school. Bruce and I are big foodies so we told Joe that we wanted a plated dinner with great food. We also told Joe that we wanted something really unique for our reception. I think the most important thing that draws us to Disney is their ability to transport someone to a different atmosphere and place. For us, it wouldn't be right to do our VR unless it was in one of the parks. I had been really inspired by Janet2k's very magical VR trip reports so I wanted something which incorporated a real Disney feel and showcased the creative talents of Disney. Joe offered us several alternatives, including the Great Movie Ride, The Prop Shop, The Narnia Walkthrough, and the Mad Hatter Tea Party. None of these were quite what we were looking for, and then he came up with an idea that really struck a chord with us. You see, we knew we didn't want a lot of the traditional elements of a wedding ceremony. We didn't want to do a huge cake and cake cutting, a champagne toast, a bouquet toss, or a "first dance". In fact, we wanted something very celebratory but not something that called a lot of attention to ourselves. My husband, especially, doesn't like to be in the spotlight.

I am keeping the Reception Venue a surprise for our guests – so I really don’t want to post the location here. If you would like to know where it is going to be – just PM me. Please just remember that I am trying to keep it a secret so mum’s the word!

Because our venue is in AK, Joe told us that our location would not be available until 10:00pm! How would we make this event proceed in a event proceed in a sensible way? Joe suggested that we have our ceremony at the WP at 8:00pm, and we decided we would have a pre-reception (cocktails and appetizers) in the Tamu-Tamu courtyard (this is across the way from the Tusker House) from 9:00pm - 10:00pm and then we would be escorted into our reception location.

We have also been thinking about rehearsal dinners and we decided that we wanted to do a small dinner (I think Citricos) with just the wedding party (do I get to say that?) and then we are going to do a dessert party with all of our invited guests. However - we are not doing an Illuminations Dessert Party - we are going to be at the Grand Floridian Marina Patio! We are going to have the music from Wishes piped in and I think it will be really fun!

So where are we now in our planning?
The cast of Characters:
DH - The handsome Groom
Me - The used-to-be blushing bride
MOH - My sister who was my original MOH
BM - DH is still deciding!
DS14 - A reluctant GM (it will be torture just wearing a Tux!)
DD7 - Junior BM (Will not understand why she isn't the center of attention!)

We have a date (June 26, 2008).
We have a ceremony and reception venue
We have a photographer (Randy Chapman)
We have an officiant (Rev Jack Day)
I have sent in my contract with check and it has been received
I have sent in my guest list and it has been received (This started out quite modest and has blossomed!)
We now have a DFTW Planner - Michelle Wenzler (Anybody else have her?!?)
We have an MK photoshoot planned for June 28, 2008
I am going to look at dresses on August 5th with a couple of girlfriends
We have a planning session on February 20th - This is really cool because it means that Bruce and I are going to take a solo trip to DW and we will be able to celebrate the anniversary of our 1st date which is Feb 17th! We have always done this but I think this year it will be really special!

That is all I have so far - So thanks for reading!

[debbieb04]

Hi Lisacope,

You certainly seem to have everything in order. I won't ask for your reception venue because I like surprises.

Keep writing and I'll keep reading. Just think, when this is done you get to write a trip report!

Debbie

[sunsh1ne]

so sweet!!

[padisneyfour]

I will continue to read with interest. We are planning to do our VR for our 20th as well a few years yet(2010) we just got back for wdw early this morning after another annual trip. We will be going in dec for my youngest dd 13th bday. Congrats to on your vow renewal.

[RangerPooh]

Sounds like you'll have a wonderful VR. Although I am itching to find out where the location is, but I'll just ahve to wait it out as that would prove to be more suspenseful and I like suprises.

[Lisacope]

okay then - the reception stays a secret!

Anyways - I got our signed letter of agreement back and our APs :cool1:
The save-the-dates have been sent out!
I have a phone conference in the morning with my planner - Michelle Wenzler. This will be my first time talking with her so I have a list of questions but I am wondering if we are just going to go through what we already have planned.

I went dress shopping this weekend! We went to three stores and I really LOVE this one dress. I am really thinking that I am going to get it. Here are some pix:

http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DFTW%20Vow%20Renewal%20Planning%20Pictures/DSC01385.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DFTW%20Vow%20Renewal%20Planning%20Pictures/DSC01382.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DFTW%20Vow%20Renewal%20Planning%20Pictures/DSC01384.jpg

That's it for now!

[princessdisneybelle]

That's a amazing dress. It looks great on you!

[JonetteA]

What a romantic story! I LOVE that dress, it is amazing. Michelle is fabulous and you are going to love working with her. I can't wait to hear all about your planning.

[LuluLovesDisney]

Your renewal's on my birthday! I hope it is a magical day for you! What a beautiful dress - and it looks great with your petite figure!:bride:

[Lisacope]

It really helped me to see my event taking shape!

One thing I had been hoping for was an optimal time/place to show a slideshow of pictures from "through the years" kind of thing and Michelle suggested making a DVD of the slideshow and having the bus driver play it! We could do the slideshow and then add a videotaped message from both of us telling our guests where the reception is!

We also talked about the dessert party - We are going to have a hot fudge sundae station, a pastry selection, and mickey rice krispy treats. I am going to have my Dad give a toast at the dessert party and Michelle suggested using beverages in hand rather than champagne which is fine by me.

We also talked about the pre-reception - it is going to be outside and I asked if we needed any decor and she suggested some kind of lighting - maybe a hurricane lantern - so I guess I will keep my eyes peeled for something like that!

[hmgolden]

I love your story. And I can't wait to hear your reception location when you do reveal it. Surprises drive me nuts!

Also, can I just say that dress is hot! Your DH is going to love it ;)

[padisneyfour]

everything sounds wonderful. the surprise reception site is exciting, best of luck in all your planning. And congrats.

[cryssi]

wow! sounds like fun! :) can't wait to hear more...

[HarbinsMom]

I love your headband and veil in your first wedding. I had one that looked just like that on December 30, 1988. We will be celebrating our 20th next December and I'm looking into a vow renewal as well. I'm not nearly as far in my planning as you are. Everything sounds wonderful and different. That's what I'm looking to do. Can't wait to see the rest during your planning.

[Janet2k]

What better way to celebrate this than to have a big 'ol bash in the happiest place on earth?

I had been really inspired by Janet2k's very magical VR trip reports so I wanted something which incorporated a real Disney feel and showcased the creative talents of Disney.

Lisacope, thank you for the link to your planning journal. I haven't been on the Dis in quite a few months (but hope to change that in the near future). And thanks for blaming me for the incredible vow renewal celebration that you are planning. I'll be sure to hide myself away from your husband if I should happen to be in WDW when he's there. I've got enough significant others & spouses mad at me as it is for planting the seeds of ~magical~ celebrations into their partners' heads. *insert evil laughter here* ;)

It was fun for me to read your journal to see where you are in the planning process. My, my, my, a lot has happened over the past couple of months. Things have really progressed. I bet you're over the moon with all of your wonderful plans.

As to your dress, it is GORGEOUS and you looked GORGEOUS in it. But I do have one little bitty suggestion -- lose the bra. Just kiddin'! I'm sure you'll be wearing appropriate undergarments on the night of your vow renewal. ;)

I can't wait to see what the future holds in store for you. Please keep updating your planning journal (and please send me a PM when you do).

Oh -- one final thing. This summer several thousand of my WDW photos were transfered to Flickr. The vast majority of them are still marked "private." However, I have been trying to mark some of the more important albums (such as my FTW and Private Event albums) as "public." If you need to view any of them, just click here (http://flickr.com/photos/janettwokay/collections/). If you don't see what you're looking for, send me a PM and I'll try to share whatever I have that might suit your needs.

[Lisacope]

Thanks Janet

What -you don't think it is okay for me to post a pic of me in my underwear for the internet to see? :dance3:

Janet, I have looked at your pix on flickr and I hope that my VR is half as good as yours - your pics are amazing and I feel lucky to have been inspired by you!!!!

[caryndisneydiva]

i love that you're doing a vow renewal! i think it's so special that your kids will be involved, they'll love it (tux and all!!!). i love your dress...i didn't have enough guts to buy something that tight, i don't want to have to worry about not eating the good disney food when i get down there, so i bought a ball gown for my wedding!!!

[Janet2k]

What -you don't think it is okay for me to post a pic of me in my underwear for the internet to see? :dance3:

Lisa, too funny! Here on the Dis, we have NO secrets -- and you just really drove that point home with me! :lmao:

Janet, I have looked at your pix on flickr and I hope that my VR is half as good as yours - your pics are amazing and I feel lucky to have been inspired by you!!!!

I showed your photos to my husband just now (the one of you & your future hubby, the one of your wedding, and the ones of your adorable children). I also told him about your upcoming VR and he said it sounds wonderful (he's got good taste!).

Your VR will be even more magical than mine was, have no fear. I can't wait to read all about it and see photos of it. Thankfully, I won't have to wait too long since I know your affair is next summer. ;)

[BayouPrincess]

So Lisa,

We have the same first name, the same anniversary, and it even looks as if we wore close to the same dress! Now we're planning a 20th anniversary at WDW!

You're plans sound fantastic! I can't wait to hear more. I love your dress. Rest assured, mine will not be form fitting..I'm not nearly the same size as I was back in 1988!:lmao: :rotfl2:

I can't wait to send in my stuff.

Happy Planning!

[Lisacope]

I can't wait to see your PJ BayouPrincess!

[Lisacope]

I haven't had much to report lately.... It isn't soon enough to make adr's....I have my dress, I am bugging my sister to choose a dress, we don't have our planning session until February, but we decided to do a newsletter to better inform our guests. We wanted it to go out before people got caught up in the holidays - so here it is:
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DFTW%20Vow%20Renewal%20Planning%20Pictures/VRNewsletterPg1.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DFTW%20Vow%20Renewal%20Planning%20Pictures/VRNewsletterPg2and3.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DFTW%20Vow%20Renewal%20Planning%20Pictures/VRNewsletterPg4.jpg

[Janet2k]

...we decided to do a newsletter to better inform our guests. We wanted it to go out before people got caught up in the holidays...

Lisacope, it looks great -- very professional! Let us know how it goes over with your guests.

[Kristen14]

How did you make your newsletter? Did you use a template? It looks great! I've been struggling with mine.

[Lisacope]

It is actually pretty easy - they provide a template and you can just type the text in and bring the pictures in from Websites like the Disboards or your own WDW vacation photos.

[caryndisneydiva]

wow! your newsletter is so professional looking...i should have done something like that!

[D&R love Disney]

Lisa, I love your dress! Your VR sounds like it is going to be great, I can't wait to find out the surprise location. The newsletter came out great and you are going to love working with Randy and having Rev. Jack do your ceremony.

I noticed you became a horse trainer, do you still train and what type?

[Lisacope]

I train dressage horses and teach people to ride. I have my own barn in Redmond, Wa. My website:

www dot sansebastianec dot net

[Keira1387]

Everything sounds great so far!!!!! Can't wait to read more!

[Lisacope]

We went to Southern California for Thxgiving to visit family and my sister and I went dress shopping for a dress for her, she is going to be my MOH - she was the MOH at my original wedding! Here is the dress we picked:

http://www.davidsbridal.com/social_dresses_detail.jsp?stid=2678&prodgroup=213

[Geekerbell]

I just found this board and have been so caught up in it!

DH and I are trying to decide if we want do our VR at 15 or 20 years (15 will be in 2010), and I am such a planner, I have just been devouring all the info.

Your plans look wonderful so far. I look forward to following you PJ and to find out that surprise reception location!

[keenercam]

Oh, Lisa! How wonderful everything looks! Your dress is GORGEOUS!! It is so perfect on beautiful you!!! Congratulations on everything coming together so wonderfully. The newsletter is such a great idea and it looks so professional. I would never have thought of doing that, but so many of our VR guests are busy professionals and parents with kids who will really have to plan far ahead in order to attend a "destination VR", so I think that is an awesome idea. Thanks for sharing. Oh, and your sister's dress is beautiful!

[Lisacope]

When is your VR? Tell us about your plans!

[keenercam]

Oh, Lisa, thanks for asking! We are hoping for January 2009. We'll be down there this January for the marathon, so we are going to do some venue visits. I am really excited to be able to do anything this far in advance. :goodvibes

[Lisacope]

Wow Keenercam - you sure have alot of races under your belt - I just started to do 10K races and there is a 12K race here in a couple of weeks I am considering doing! How do you hear about the races at Disney - I think that would be really fun to do!

[keenercam]

Lisa -- On the wdwsports.com website there is a calendar that lists the races. There is a really awesome website called disneyrunning.com that has awesome information, photos, race reports, etc. Check it out!

[Bostonbride6292008]

I had one of my BM try that dress on! We ended up with the holiday dress that is simmilar to that one though!

[fun2bmomof3]

Your plans sound amazing! Your story is so romantic.
I can't wait to hear your surprise location and to see pictures afterwards.

We want to do a vr in 2008 but need to wait till after the first of the year to set a date.

Crissy

[HarbinsMom]

It sounds as if you've gotten alot accomplished. I still can't wait to hear where the reception is.

[Janet2k]

...my sister...is going to be my MOH... Here is the dress we picked: http://www.davidsbridal.com/social_dresses_detail.jsp?stid=2678&prodgroup=213

Lisacope, I haven't been around the Dis much over the past month or two, so I missed this post of yours. The bridesmaid dress that you picked is lovely. Did you order it in red or another color?

[Lisacope]

I haven't updated this in awhile because we have been busy with Xmas and then we had a family cruise that we went on right after Xmas!

1 VR-related thing that I did before Xmas - I had Boudoir pix taken (I can recommend a great photographer in the Seattle area if anyone needs one!) which I made into a photo book using Blurb.com. Our planning session is coming up - Feb 19&20th and we are having a GF private dining dinner on Feb 17th - I am going to give the book to my hubby that night! I can't wait!

I have worked with my WP on making the ADR for our rehearsal dinner - it is going to be at 7:45pm at Citrico's before the dessert party that night - I am hoping it won't be too tight! We are going to select one of the group dining menus and maybe offer wine on the table so things move along!

We have passed the 180 day mark for our VR trip so I started working on making ADRs for the trip.

Alot of my family and guests are starting to make hotel reservations - I am starting to feel like I will fill my room block!

I have been working with a girl that makes jewelry to make jewelry for myself, my dd7 and my dsis (MOH) - it is really nice stuff and the price is right!

My dress should be arriving in the mail on Wednesday! Yay!

[Lisacope]

I hope your Xmas was good!

My Dsis' dress is going to be slate blue - we are going to take DD7 to David's bridal and try on some of the JB dresses and find her one in the same color.

[Lisacope]

It came in the mail yesterday! I tried it on right when it got here and it is beautiful! It finally feels like things are starting to happen!

[Lynn5700]

Your wedding dress is gorgeous,it looks great on you :)

The MOH dress is so cute!!!

[Lisacope]

Okay - our VR Planning session trip is coming up! We are going to be in Orlando from Feb 16 - 21st with our tasting session on the 19th and planning session on the 20th. We will be having our GF private dining dinner on Feb 17th - the 22nd anniversary of our 1st date! I am also hoping we can make a trip to CarolynAllens and pick Tuxs.

What I am hoping we will have accomplished before that trip:

- Someone to do my invitations
I have a mockup, I have chosen colors, now I just need someone to print them and I will even assemble them

- A dress pattern and fabric picked out for DD7
My mom is going to make this dress and she will be here watching the kids while we go to Orlando.

- Vows written
My brave DH has said he will do this, I am hoping he will get this done before the planning session

- Music for the ceremony chosen
We just aren't that enthusiastic about the way the organ sounds on the CD, so we may choose music to be played on a CD player.

- A Best Man picked out
There are two possible candidates for this, one may not be able to afford it and may not accept our help in getting to our event, the other had a baby in August last year and may feel it is too hard for him to come. I am trying not to feel anxious about this - I could also probably get my brother to stand in but his FIL is quite ill and it will be touch-n-go as to whether he and my SIL will be able to come.

Holy Cow!!! That sounds like alot to get done in less than four weeks!!!

What I am hoping to accomplish on the trip:

- A menu selected
We are doing a plated dinner with two entrees

- Logisitics and scheduling of the day worked out with transportation

- Floral and decoration chosen or sketched in

- Menu for dessert party decided on

- Beverage options for Reception, dessert party, and pre-reception

- Anything else you can think of?

[Janet2k]

Lisacope, I'm so glad to hear that your dress arrived. It's a nice feeling when that is finally out of the way.

It sounds like you didn't find a dress that you liked for your daughter. I'm sure whatever dress you're having made will turn out beautifully. Please share a photo once the dress is finished.

Would you care to share any info about the jewelry that you're having made? What color metal is being used? What color stones are being used? Anything that you feel like sharing, please do.

The only jewelry that I wore to my event (besides a ring) was a watch. I debated not wearing it but always felt naked without it, plus, it held special significance for me and so I wore it. And the funny thing is, here it is 3 years and 3 months after my event, and I just discovered that I had worn a watch to my original wedding (I noticed it in an old photo the other day). Boy, I sure am glad I wore it to my VR. Nothing like a little continuity in life. Oh, and one more "jewelry" thing. I didn't wear my original wedding ring to my VR. It was an heirloom that had been sitting in my bank's safety deposit box for a couple of years (I had worn the shank down almost to the bone). I wore a simple eternity band instead.

How is your "to do" list coming along? Will everything be completed before your planning session trip? My fingers are crossed for you!

By the way, I forgot to tell you that a few months ago, I read about an event that was held in your venue. It was a convention, I believe, and it sounded like the event turned out beautifully. I know you'll have an equally beautiful event. ;)

[Janet2k]

- A Best Man picked out
There are two possible candidates for this, one may not be able to afford it and may not accept our help in getting to our event, the other had a baby in August last year and may feel it is too hard for him to come. I am trying not to feel anxious about this - I could also probably get my brother to stand in but his FIL is quite ill and it will be touch-n-go as to whether he and my SIL will be able to come.

Lisacope, what about your son? Could he pinch-hit if the need arises?

[Janet2k]

- Anything else you can think of?

No, it sounds like you've got the basics covered. I just want to mention that once you get the timeline, everything will fall into place and begin to feel very real.

[Lisacope]

Hey Janet -

Wazzup! I am very excited about the jewelry that I am having made for my vow renewal! I am getting a necklace, bracelet and earrings for myself and my MOH and a necklace and bracelet for my DD.

Here is the style of necklace she is making for me:
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/crystaltassel.jpg

Here is the style of MOH's necklace (Her neckline is a little different):
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/shortcrystal5000w5000drop.jpg

My bracelet will look like this:
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Newcrystalpearl.jpg

MOH and DDs Bracelets:
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/barelytheregreypearls.jpg

[Lisacope]

DH spoke with one of our potentials on Thursday and he is going to talk to his wife about coming. I feel a little guilty about DH's asking him: They have a 2 year old and they also had a baby in August and although Jeff (the potential) thinks it would be fun I think the wife is feeling overwhelmed by having two little ones. I can totally relate - I was the same way after I had DS14!

[Lisacope]

I can't wait - DH and I went out to dinner last night and left the kids home. We talked about some of the logistic issues about our VR. One concern I have: We are staying at BWV (Home Sweet Home!!!) for the entire VR trip but we have one night - the 26th - at the GF which is the night of our VR. I am concerned about where we are going to get ready - I know it is common to get early check-in when you are wearing those ears but what if we don't? We need to be dressed and ready to go at 6:30pm for pix - if we don't get checked in until 3:00pm will that be enough time for us to have hair and makeup done? I can just imagine how long it is going to take for DH to get himself AND Ds14 into Tuxes!!! Maybe we should get an additional night at the GF (The 25th) and DH and I could stay there after the dessert party at the GF and my mom could take DD and DS back to the BWV where we are staying until the 26th.

- Just an example of the kind of thing rolling around in my head!!!

[Lisacope]

The seamstress was super nice - and I thought she was really reasonable. I told her about our plans and she thought it sounded very cool!

[keenercam]

Lisa -- The jewelry is going to be so beautiful! I love the style you chose -- it will work so well with the neckline on your dress! :goodvibes

[Janet2k]

I am very excited about the jewelry that I am having made for my vow renewal!

Love the jewelry, Lisacope -- and my daughter does too (she was walking by my computer when I was viewing it). Très chic!

Had my first fitting yesterday!!

Awesome! Glad to hear that things are continuing to move right along for you!

[Janet2k]

One concern I have: We are staying at BWV (Home Sweet Home!!!) for the entire VR trip but we have one night - the 26th - at the GF which is the night of our VR. I am concerned about where we are going to get ready - I know it is common to get early check-in when you are wearing those ears but what if we don't? We need to be dressed and ready to go at 6:30pm for pix - if we don't get checked in until 3:00pm will that be enough time for us to have hair and makeup done? I can just imagine how long it is going to take for DH to get himself AND Ds14 into Tuxes!!! Maybe we should get an additional night at the GF (The 25th) and DH and I could stay there after the dessert party at the GF and my mom could take DD and DS back to the BWV where we are staying until the 26th.

Lisacope, here's how I handled my VR...

We booked ourselves into the GF for the three nights / four days surrounding our vow renewal. We were supposed to hang onto our room over at the BWV, but we wound up giving it to one of our guests. Had our guests not taken the room, our children would have been in it -- which was the plan so that my husband & I would have the GF room all to ourselves (!!) for a few nights. But Fate obviously had other plans in store for us, and, honestly, it was fine with us. Except that my husband still teases me to this day that we have NEVER had a wedding night or a honeymoon or a vow renewal night. Hey, he should consider it just one more "reason" to make it to our 25th wedding anniversary -- when I FINALLY will make all of his dreams come true! :lmao:

So, on the day prior to our event, we transfered over to the GF from the BWV (our friends arrived just as we were transferring so the timing was perfect). I actually checked into the resort with one of my best friends -- that way my husband & son could pick up their tuxes with another one of my dear friends (the tux place was somewhere in Orlando). I arrived at the GF's Front Desk, but the Front Desk had someone come downstairs to greet me. Two Cast Members then took us up to my room and handled my check-in there. That had been done for me before, but my friend had never seen it and thus got a kick out of it.

Our rehearsal inside the Wedding Pavilion was scheduled for the first night of our GF stay. Our rehearsal was followed by our Welcome Party at the GF's marina. I was thankful that I had booked us into the resort that night. It had been a very busy day for us, and it was nice to be at the resort where all the action was for our events.

The next day was our vow renewal. My Event Manager had booked a ballroom at the Convention Center for my daughter, niece, and I to get ready in. Two cosmetologists handled our hair & makeup needs. It was wonderful having plenty of space to move around in. Click here (http://www.flickr.com/photos/janettwokay/sets/72157600563825340/) to see a few photos.

Once we were picture perfect, we got dressed and walked over to the GF lobby for our pre-ceremony photos. My husband, son, and nephew joined us there. Photos were taken inside the resort and outside the resort. Time flew by, and before we knew it, it was time for the wedding party to head over to the Wedding Pavilion for the ceremony.

Our ceremony came & went, as did our dinner reception at the Studios. Right around 3 AM, we were dropped off back at the GF. It had been a long & eventful day, and I was VERY glad that we didn't have to check out a few hours later (!!). Booking that third night at the resort was truly some of the best money that I had ever spent.

My husband & son hit the hay right away, but my daughter & I stayed up talking for a few hours. She eventually passed out, but I had a few loose ends to tie up. I don't think I fell asleep until sunup.

Now, you would think that our guests would let us sleep in, wouldn't you? It had been a long night for everyone, but no rest for the wicked! Our phone began ringing off the hook sometime that morning. ARG!!!!! And to make matters worse, they were calling us from the resort's pool deck: "Hey, Janet, come on down to the pool and join us for food & beverages!" It was all I could do not to tell them to go to h-e-double-toothpicks (!!). The kids quickly put on their swimsuits and headed to the pool. I think Rick & I joined everyone within the hour.

The rest of our day took off from there. Theme park visits (yes, more than one) and then a big, family dinner at the Yachtsman Steakhouse. I don't know what time we eventually wound up back at the GF, but as soon as we did, it was time to pack up our suitcases. We were scheduled to transfer back to the BWV the very next day.

So, I had three nights booked at the GF and it was some of the best money that I had spent during that vacation. It was nice being in the resort that was closest to many of our vow renewal events.

I wish you much luck in deciding what to do. It's a tough decision.

[Lisacope]

It was helpful to read your getting ready timeline - I am going to talk to DH about booking another night at the GF - I think that would work really well for us!

[myprincessgirlisa]

wow lisa...your vr is rolling ahead!!!!

congrats & it sounds really neat...you have me VERY curious about your reception local!!!!!!

your newsletter looks AWESOME!!!!

& your dress looks GREAT on you!!!do you have an updated pic of you in the on you ordered??

the jewelry looks so pretty!!!!!

cant wait for more!!!!:goodvibes

[Lisacope]

Thank you Myprincessgirllisa! I bought an awesome pair of shoes yesterday - I am going to try to take a pic of them because I just love them!

Thank you Cam - You have me wanting to do one of those half marathons - do you think there would be room for one more runner on the Marathon weekend in 09?

[lov2b@disney]

The jewelry is beautiful!! Book that 2nd night! I'm working on the same thing for our wedding! We have 3 DS's (DF has charge of all of them the AM of our wedding :laughing:, should be interesting) We have our wedding night booked at the GF (no boys!) but would love a more relaxing 2nd night!

Your VR is shortly after our wedding!

[Lisacope]

Thanx Sandy! I am thinking about booking it!

[Lisacope]

I picked up the mock up of my invitations today. Here are some pix:

http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DSC01472.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DSC01474.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DSC01473.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DSC01475.jpg

The gal who did them are going to print them and I (and my mom!) are going to assemble them.

[padisneyfour]

They look wonderful!!!! I love the pocketfolds:thumbsup2

[Lisacope]

They look wonderful!!!! I love the pocketfolds:thumbsup2'

Thanks - they are already printed but I might add an accomodations card!

[keenercam]

Lisa -- I LOVE that shimmer blue pocketfolder. Where is it from?

[Lisacope]

Lisa -- I LOVE that shimmer blue pocketfolder. Where is it from?

It is "Sapphire" from cardsandpockets, the under layer is "champagne"

[keenercam]

It is "Sapphire" from cardsandpockets, the under layer is "champagne"

Thanks, Lisa!

[Lisacope]

I went shopping on Sunday with my neighbor and I bought shoes to go with my dress - I just love them! here they are:
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DSC01478.jpg

[Lisella]

Just getting caught up on your PJ. Everything looks amazing. Love your invitations - one of my favorite colors!

Good luck with the rest of your planning and your upcoming trip. Can't wait to read how it all plays out. popcorn::

[orangetiggs]

do you have any pictures of the marina patio?? we would love a wishes dessert party and our reception is at the whitehall so it would be great

[Lisacope]

do you have any pictures of the marina patio?? we would love a wishes dessert party and our reception is at the whitehall so it would be great

Forgive me if these are huge. The first 3 pix are the Marina Patio and the rest are the Whitehall Patio which are the rain location for the Marina Patio

http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/GF%20Marina%20Patio/GrandMarina1.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/GF%20Marina%20Patio/GrandMarina3.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/GF%20Marina%20Patio/GrandMarina5.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/GF%20Marina%20Patio/Whitehall-CoveredPatio.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/GF%20Marina%20Patio/WhitehallPatioCastleView.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/GF%20Marina%20Patio/WhitehallPatioPre-Reception3.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/GF%20Marina%20Patio/WhitehallPatioview.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/GF%20Marina%20Patio/WhitehallRoom.jpg

[Goldeelox9]

Love your PJ!

[shezfrombermuda]

Thanks for posting the pictures of the marina. I am going to have a dessert party and it is good to see the patio from different views.

I love your invitations!

[Janet2k]

Lisacope, how many guests will be attending your vow renewal? Do you think this number will stand firm or do you expect it to change as your date approaches?

As to the location of your dessert party, will it be held in the area that sits in front of Gasparilla Grill as seen in the photos that you posted? I ask because I am wondering how you will handle the privacy issue. Gasparilla Grill is very popular with the resort crowd (I know that I love grabbing something to eat there at all hours of the day, especially since I can dine outdoors). Will you be paying for temporary privacy barriers to be put up? I did that for one of my outdoor get-togethers a few years ago and it worked out well.

I love the shoes that you've selected. I bet they look great with your dress. Thanks for sharing a photo of them.

[mcarthur205]

Oh, I love your shoes! And either of those locations would be amazing for your dessert party (I hope you don't get rain though!). :)

[Disney Ron]

Great dress, and I love the shoes!

:bride: Mrs. Disney Ron

[Lisacope]

Lisacope, how many guests will be attending your vow renewal? Do you think this number will stand firm or do you expect it to change as your date approaches?

As to the location of your dessert party, will it be held in the area that sits in front of Gasparilla Grill as seen in the photos that you posted? I ask because I am wondering how you will handle the privacy issue. Gasparilla Grill is very popular with the resort crowd (I know that I love grabbing something to eat there at all hours of the day, especially since I can dine outdoors). Will you be paying for temporary privacy barriers to be put up? I did that for one of my outdoor get-togethers a few years ago and it worked out well.

I love the shoes that you've selected. I bet they look great with your dress. Thanks for sharing a photo of them.

Hey Janet .... Our guest count is a source of stress for me! I think we will have between 45-55 people. We have invited quite a few more than that - 130 to be exact but we are expecting that quite a few will not come because of the distance and expense. I am fine with that - I know that my family is coming and many of our dearest friends will be making the journey. Many of the invites I am sending out are mostly just symbolic but if we get surprised by 100 guests I am fine with that too! I know our venue can hold much more and I am happy to pay for more guests.

Fill me in Janet - Is the Gasparilla Grill right next to the Marina Patio? If privacy barriers are a good idea then let me know and I will ask for them!

Thanks for the compliment on the shoes!

[Lisacope]

Love your PJ!

Thanks!

[Lisacope]

Thanks for posting the pictures of the marina. I am going to have a dessert party and it is good to see the patio from different views.

I love your invitations!

Thanks Shezfrombermuda - I am going to my PS in 5 days and I am hoping to really scope this area out - I am bringing my camera but I am not a great photgrapher. If I am able to add any info about the Marina Patio I will share it!

[Lisacope]

Oh, I love your shoes! And either of those locations would be amazing for your dessert party (I hope you don't get rain though!). :)

Thanks! I hope I don't get rain either!

[padisneyfour]

The shoes you chose are so pretty and elegant.... I love the pictures of the patio too. Hope you have a great ps....looking forward to reading more of your plans!

[Lisacope]

The shoes you chose are so pretty and elegant.... I love the pictures of the patio too. Hope you have a great ps....looking forward to reading more of your plans!


Thanks!

[Janet2k]

I know that my family is coming and many of our dearest friends will be making the journey. Many of the invites I am sending out are mostly just symbolic...

Lisacope, it sounds like the most important folks will be there. Excellent. And if a few others surprise you, it will be icing on the cake. Hang in there (and I hope the head-count stress ends soon!).

Is the Gasparilla Grill right next to the Marina Patio? If privacy barriers are a good idea then let me know and I will ask for them!

Yes, Gasparilla Grill is right there -- if I can find any decent photos that show the proximity, I'll let you know.

I would definitely look into having temporary privacy barriers erected. I've seen photos of other brides who have done this in the past, for example, when their ceremonies were held in the location right there in front of Gasparilla Grill (the location in your photos). The barriers really helped.

When I used them for one of my get-togethers in another outdoor location, I was charged by the foot. Tall shrubbery was used and it was brought over from the Magic Kingdom. I was glad that I paid for this extra touch as it really did help keep things a little more intimate.

[Janet2k]

I'm on my way out the door to get my daughter from basketball practice, but hopefully this photo will do for now:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2359/2134260919_71ef3893b6.jpg

The building that is shown in the bottom, left-hand corner of the photo is the portion of the resort's main building where Gasparilla Grill and the Mouseketeer Clubhouse are located. You should be able to make out the marina patio area that was shown in your photos (three umbrella tables are seen sitting there along the marina's border).

Hope this helped.

[Lisacope]

My mom called me today to add someone to our guest list and I swung from "Nobody's coming to my VR!!!" to "Too many people are coming to my VR!!!"

[Lisacope]

Lisacope, it sounds like the most important folks will be there. Excellent. And if a few others surprise you, it will be icing on the cake. Hang in there (and I hope the head-count stress ends soon!).



Yes, Gasparilla Grill is right there -- if I can find any decent photos that show the proximity, I'll let you know.

I would definitely look into having temporary privacy barriers erected. I've seen photos of other brides who have done this in the past, for example, when their ceremonies were held in the location right there in front of Gasparilla Grill (the location in your photos). The barriers really helped.

When I used them for one of my get-togethers in another outdoor location, I was charged by the foot. Tall shrubbery was used and it was brought over from the Magic Kingdom. I was glad that I paid for this extra touch as it really did help keep things a little more intimate.

Thanks Janet - I have added "Ask for privacy barriers" to my notes about the dessert party.

[lov2b@disney]

CAtching up! Shoes are beautiful! Love the pictures of your sites- so pretty! btw, I asked about privacy screen (plants) for our dp-its at italy west at epcot, I believe the quote was $2500! fyi, hth! (I was a little shocked)- no privacy here! Everyones invited :laughing:

[Lisacope]

CAtching up! Shoes are beautiful! Love the pictures of your sites- so pretty! btw, I asked about privacy screen (plants) for our dp-its at italy west at epcot, I believe the quote was $2500! fyi, hth! (I was a little shocked)- no privacy here! Everyones invited :laughing:

gaak! Janet - do you remember how much you paid for a privacy screen?

[Janet2k]

gaak! Janet - do you remember how much you paid for a privacy screen?

No, I don't. I simply remember it being a "per foot" charge. Tall shrubbery/plants had to be brought over from the Magic Kingdom. The price added up, but it was something that I was willing to live with. The "cost of doing business," so to speak.

During your planning session, this should be an easy question for the FTW folks to answer. It will be one more piece of information for you to have when it comes time to plan your event. If you decide that a privacy barrier isn't needed, great. But if you decide that it is needed, and if you can live with its cost, more power to you. ;)

[Janet2k]

..."Too many people are coming to my VR!!!"

I see that you received my "acceptance." Good! :lmao:

[Janet2k]

Edited to swap out a prior photo.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2004/2261788170_f2d3203f18_o.jpg

In the background of this photo, you can see backside of the Main Building of the Grand Floridian Resort (the building on the left). Only a portion of Gasparilla Grill is shown -- the portion that is closest to the Mouseketeer Clubhouse (seen on the right-hand side of that building). But if you were standing in the area of the marina where I believe your party will be held, you could see all of Gasparilla Grill.

There are normally four umbrella tables set up in the area that borders the marina. You can see this in the photo. There are even more umbrella tables set up directly in front of the Gasparilla Grill (seen in the background of this photo), and obviously those tables get more use due to their proximity to the grill. I'm not sure how familiar you are with the Grand Floridian, but resort guests sit at those outdoor tables when they're eating, drinking, smoking, and/or relaxing. Please remember that Gasparilla Grill is open 24 hours a day / 7 days a week. The outdoor tables are often in use even at the oddest hours of the day/night.

Hopefully, this photo will give you a sense of how wide open that area is and perhaps it will help you understand why I asked if you were considering privacy barriers.

[Lisacope]

We got my daughter's dress in the mail today. I bought it at David's Bridal. I have inserted some pix but the camera made her complexion a weird color! Honest she is healthy and isn't really green! Here it is:

http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DSC01481.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DSC01483.jpg

[lov2b@disney]

She is adorable, I love the dress!

Love the marina area for wishes I think it sounds great!

[pjstevens]

Honest she is healthy and isn't really green! Here it is:

http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DSC01481.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/DSC01483.jpg

LOVE the dress dd is wearing!!! Glad she isn't really green :goodvibes

I so wish I could have others with us to enjoy our VR in September, it just seems like so much more fun than planning for just us two. :confused:

[keenercam]

Beautiful dress. Your daughter is so adorable!

[Lisacope]

Beautiful dress. Your daughter is so adorable!


Thanks Cam!

[Lisacope]

My husband has finally had his friend tell us that he and his family will be coming to our VR and will be our BM! This was a relief to me, for awhile there it looked like there wouldn't be one!

[Lisacope]

And I was actually positively surprised by how close it was to what I had guesstimated. ! I think the original proposed budget was very close to what our BEO is and I also have gotten alot of info off this board! My DH and I will go over it line by line tonight and I am sure I will be emailing my WP with questions tomorrow.

[M&M126]

Just catching up... everything looks great! I'm really glad your BEO was close to budget. I think these boards definitely helped out with knowing what to expect!

[Lisacope]

Just catching up... everything looks great! I'm really glad your BEO was close to budget. I think these boards definitely helped out with knowing what to expect!

Thanks! I actually breathed a sigh of relief when I opened it because I was so worried that a few things we added were going to be super expense and they weren't!

[M&M126]

Thanks! I actually breathed a sigh of relief when I opened it because I was so worried that a few things we added were going to be super expense and they weren't!

Thats a great thing! I was actually surprised at my BEO too b/c some things that I thought would be expensive really weren't. Granted there are many things that are way overpriced, but that's Disney :)

Good luck with your planning!

[tinklynn]

I'm sorry, but I don't remember reading about your planning session...did you post it and I missed it or are you going to make us wait for the VR? (Say no please!)
I think I'm in the same area as you are by the way. (Not that that makes any difference, it's just nice to know that there are at least a few Washingtonians looking at these boards!)
Taje care...

[AuroraBorealis]

...nice to know that there are at least a few Washingtonians looking at these boards!

I'm a Washingtonian, too!

Lisa-- I love your gown! It is gorgeous!

[Lisacope]

I'm a Washingtonian, too!

Lisa-- I love your gown! It is gorgeous!

Thanks Aurora and Tinklynn! What Wa cities are you from - I am in Redmond.

[AuroraBorealis]

Thanks Aurora and Tinklynn! What Wa cities are you from - I am in Redmond.

I live in West Seattle but that might change soon if I get the job I'm interviewing for today!

[Lisacope]

I live in West Seattle but that might change soon if I get the job I'm interviewing for today!

Good luck with your interview!

[tinklynn]

I'm down by Federal Way but work in Sammamish

[Lisacope]

Oh my goodness! We only have 3 months left to get stuff done!

Still to do:

Address Invitations and mail them
Pick Tuxes and get measurements
Hair Trial
Select Makeup and do trial run
Seating Chart and Place Cards
Reception Menus
Favors
Programs
Welcome Bags
Pick Music
Write Vows
Get photos and music to my bro who is doing a slideshow
Gifts for GMs

EEEEKKKKK!!!!!

Got my floral budget - not too many surprises - my decor portion was not too bad, but the bouquets are a little expensive, so it all evens out.

[tinklynn]

Got my floral budget - not too many surprises - my decor portion was not too bad, but the bouquets are a little expensive, so it all evens out.



Very cool Lisa -- Flowers can make or break the wedding. It's all about the atmosphere, right? :goodvibes

[Lisacope]

Just a little update!

Opinions please: Do I really have to have programs? We are having a very simple ceremony and only about 40 people - it just seems like something that people throw away! I worked on them a little but it just seems like something that will go to waste!

I had another fitting on my dress! I took my jewelry and shoes to my fitting and they all look fabulous together! The seamstress wanted to fix one more little thing and then I get to keep my dress! Of course, with the way it fits, I CAN NOT GAIN A SINGLE POUND before my VR!

I have also been working on getting gifts for everybody at the RD - I have jewelry for the ladies, and I am getting Fossil wallets with Disney $$ for DS and his two cousins, and I need to come up with something for my Dad and for our best man.

I have printed clear labels for my invites and now all I have to do is put them together this weekend and then I am going to mail them on Monday!

[Lisacope]

We mailed our invites yesterday!

I bought glowstick necklaces for our dessert party!

I need to figure out more BP presents.

We have fulfilled our room block minimum - I am relieved!

I had asked for a hand painted aisle runner and Rose just sent me the price - $700!!! I don't think I am going to do it.

[padisneyfour]

congrats on filling your room block! you are getting so close! OMG $700.00 for an aisle runner?!?:faint:

[Lisacope]

congrats on filling your room block! you are getting so close! OMG $700.00 for an aisle runner?!?:faint:

That was for a custom painted one - I told her to go back to the plain one, which was $70.

[padisneyfour]

$70.00 is much better and reasonable. I still can't get over the price of a custom one..... WOW! I wonder how many they make at that price .....

[Lisacope]

I have started getting RSVP cards, its pretty fun to get those in the mail! We have used almost all of the room nights in the block - and I was worried about filling the min number of nights! We have more than 40 confirmed guests, and we needed that many for our reception venue!

My current to-do List:

Address Invitations and mail them - Done
Pick Tuxes and get measurements - hurry up, Bruce!
Hair Trial - I am going to schedule this when I get back from San Diego next week
Select Makeup and do trial run - working on this at the end of the month
Gifts for BP members for RD - Still have a few things left to get
Reception Menus - I have a mockup, waiting for final count to do them
Seating Chart and Place Cards - Waiting for final count
Favors - Kind of chosen, waiting for count
Programs - Undecided on whether to do these, I have a mockup
Welcome Bags - Completely untouched
Get pictures to Bro for slideshow - Done
Pick Music - Not done!!!
Write Vows - Not done!!!

[AuroraBorealis]

Wow, two months! That is going to fly by!

I've been dreaming of Florida to escape this weird weather we've been having...currently, there is a mixture of hail and snow outside my window. How is it on your side?

As far as programs go-- perhaps you could do a small amount of programs. Print only 20 or 25 if you are having 40 guests. That way, you'd have a few for your scrapbook and pictures, the people who really want one will get one, and all your hard work won't go to waste!

[shezfrombermuda]

Congrats on having two months left! Time will go by fast but it seems like you have everything under control and organized. I was debating having menus programs, and favours. I decided to go with menus but not with programs. I should have 40 guests as well and everyone should know everyone. My planner told me almost everyone leaves them so if it isn't in your budget not to spend the money. I have also heard that people leave favours. I am thinking if I have edible favours, they will be taken!

[Keira1387]

Your getting so close! How exciting!!! :banana:

[Lisacope]

Wow, two months! That is going to fly by!

I've been dreaming of Florida to escape this weird weather we've been having...currently, there is a mixture of hail and snow outside my window. How is it on your side?

As far as programs go-- perhaps you could do a small amount of programs. Print only 20 or 25 if you are having 40 guests. That way, you'd have a few for your scrapbook and pictures, the people who really want one will get one, and all your hard work won't go to waste!

It has been snowing/hailing/raining all weekend!! I am sick of it!!!!

I think what you are suggesting is what I am going to do - I am not going to make them super fancy, and just print a few!

[tinklynn]

you are getting so close!! you must be very excited!

[Lisacope]

yup - I now have 5 weeks left! I got an unexpected Yes RSVP yesterday, so now we are at 47!

Current to-do list:

Pick Tuxes and get measurements - DH just has to get measurements from best man
Hair Trial - Having this on Friday at 1:30pm
Select Makeup and do trial run - Just did this-It went well but my husband didn't like my dramatic eyelashes, I am going to go back and get something different
Gifts for BP members for RD - Done
Reception Menus - I got the stuff for these today, I will work on these this weekend
Favors - Done - I am doing the Chocolate placecards
Programs - Not sure I am going to do thesecount
Welcome Bags - I have put together an "Essentials" bag, I need to iron on the transfers onto the tote bags, and put together the welcome letter and inserts for the folder
Music to Bro for slideshow - I am waiting for him to give me a format
Placecards and seating chart - waiting for final count, doing the chocolate placecards
Pick Music - Mostly done
Write Vows - Not done!!!
Shoes for DD - Not Done
Fax Wedding License to WP - Not Done

[Lisacope]

We have 34 days to go - and I am wiring a big 'ol buttload of dough to Disney tomorrow! (I thought this deserved it's own post)

[padisneyfour]

We have 34 days to go - and I am wiring a big 'ol buttload of dough to Disney tomorrow! (I thought this deserved it's own post)

WHEW!Good luck with everything!:thumbsup2

[Keira1387]

34 days!!! That's so close! You must be getting excited!!

[lov2b@disney]

We have 34 days to go - and I am wiring a big 'ol buttload of dough to Disney tomorrow! (I thought this deserved it's own post)

:woohoo: :eek: :woohoo: :eek: :woohoo: :eek:

We are making our final payment today too! :faint:

they were a little late on getting us our final beo!

[Lisacope]

Wow Sandy! We are both getting close! Do you have a bunch of stuff left to do?

[lov2b@disney]

Wow Sandy! We are both getting close! Do you have a bunch of stuff left to do?

Not too much really, finishing place cards today. Had my last dress fitting last night:cool1: Packing-:faint: this should be fun! A regular trip with the kids is fun to pack for! Adding on a wedding :scared: I'm excited to start packing then it will really feel real!

I just cant wait!:banana:

[keenercam]

Wow, Lisa, you've really whittled your list down. :yay: I'll bet that feels great! :cloud9: I can't even imagine how intensely exciting and scary all together it is to write that big check. :eek:

[Lisacope]

Wow, Lisa, you've really whittled your list down. :yay: I'll bet that feels great! :cloud9: I can't even imagine how intensely exciting and scary all together it is to write that big check. :eek:

yep - I just went to the bank and did it!!! Yay! It made it seem really close!

[AuroraBorealis]

30 days today! How exciting! And it is paid for and your to-do list is shrinking by the day! :cool1:

Where did you go for your hair and makeup trial?

[Lisacope]

Yay - today is my actual wedding anniversary! Now we have actually been married for 20 years!

I went with a friend (who is coming with us) to the MAC counter at Nordstrom's and we picked all of the stuff and she is coming with us to do it at Disney!

I had one hair trial and I wasn't happy with how it turned out - I told the guy I wasn't sure how I wanted it and it looked a little to young to me - I am going to have another hair trial tomorrow with someone else and I am going to take some pix with me.

We still have plenty to do - I need to print the menu cards and do some more on the welcome bags and DD needs shoes to wear with her dress!

[lov2b@disney]

Happy Anniversary!:cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

Your VR is coming very soon!:love:

[AuroraBorealis]

Yay - today is my actual wedding anniversary! Now we have actually been married for 20 years!

I went with a friend (who is coming with us) to the MAC counter at Nordstrom's and we picked all of the stuff and she is coming with us to do it at Disney!

I had one hair trial and I wasn't happy with how it turned out - I told the guy I wasn't sure how I wanted it and it looked a little to young to me - I am going to have another hair trial tomorrow with someone else and I am going to take some pix with me.

We still have plenty to do - I need to print the menu cards and do some more on the welcome bags and DD needs shoes to wear with her dress!

Happy Anniversary!

I love the MAC counter! Have you been to the freestanding store in U-Village? Its a lot of fun!

Good luck with your next hair trial. I hope you get what you want!

[Lisacope]

Happy Anniversary!

I love the MAC counter! Have you been to the freestanding store in U-Village? Its a lot of fun!

Good luck with your next hair trial. I hope you get what you want!

Thanks! My DH ordered the tuxes today from CA's and I got DD a dress for the rehearsal dinner. Two more checks!

[Lisacope]

I got a few more things done:

- Got shoes for DD to wear with her dress
- Had a hair trial and was happy with the style!
- Sent a copy of our marriage license to our WP

We're getting there!

[Lisacope]

I have been able to check some things off of my list!!!

- Got shoes for DD (and some clothes to wear on the trip!)
- Bought a weddding ring for DH!
- Printed place cards!
- Almost done with welcome bags
- Music Chosen!
- Vows written!

[padisneyfour]

things are coming together!!!:goodvibes getting close!

[roozlilone]

:cool1: :cool1: Woohoo, that is great!! Keep checking stuff off your list! You are almost there! I'm so excited for you! :goodvibes

[roozlilone]

Lisacope,
I have a question for you....you are using Rev. Jack Day, right? By chance have you talked with him recently? Have you gone over the ceremony with him? We are using him also and we can't get a hold of him and we've yet to talk with him over the phone. :headache: I just emailed him our VR ceremony with vows. Just wondered what your experience with him has been? Thanks for the help. :goodvibes

[PhilHarMaestro]

Don't know if you've made a decision yet about the programs, but I made 250 for my sister's wedding (which by the way took FOREVER!!!!!) only to have the officiant change the order at the rehearsal and then walked by the trash on the way out the door on the day of and see tons of them in there!!!!! :furious: :furious: :furious: :furious: People don't use them or save them, although i think they should!!!

[Lisacope]

Lisacope,
I have a question for you....you are using Rev. Jack Day, right? By chance have you talked with him recently? Have you gone over the ceremony with him? We are using him also and we can't get a hold of him and we've yet to talk with him over the phone. :headache: I just emailed him our VR ceremony with vows. Just wondered what your experience with him has been? Thanks for the help. :goodvibes
I think we are getting ready to email our Vows to him - I have heard he is very busy - please let me know if you hear from him!

[Lisacope]

Don't know if you've made a decision yet about the programs, but I made 250 for my sister's wedding (which by the way took FOREVER!!!!!) only to have the officiant change the order at the rehearsal and then walked by the trash on the way out the door on the day of and see tons of them in there!!!!! :furious: :furious: :furious: :furious: People don't use them or save them, although i think they should!!!
I don't think I am going to make programs for that very reason! I don't think people will keep them - I will be sad if I see them in the trash!

[Lynn5700]

Woo hoo!!! your day will be here before you know it :)

[lov2b@disney]

:yay: Keep checking stuff off your list, your day will be hear before you know it!

btw-Rev Day- we are using him too! I emailed and faxed him our vows and he got right back to us and we've spoken to him several times!

[roozlilone]

I think we are getting ready to email our Vows to him - I have heard he is very busy - please let me know if you hear from him!

:yay: Keep checking stuff off your list, your day will be hear before you know it!

btw-Rev Day- we are using him too! I emailed and faxed him our vows and he got right back to us and we've spoken to him several times!

I just got an email from him. That makes me feel better! ::yes:: I know his very busy, but I just wanted to make sure we are all set. You guys will definitely let me know how you like him! :goodvibes

[Lisacope]

Hey Roozlilone -

My DH got done writing the vows last night and I think he is going to email them in the next day or so. He read them out loud and said that they are not as long as the vow samples that Rev Day sent to us - did you try reading yours out loud and see how long they were?

[roozlilone]

Hey Roozlilone -

My DH got done writing the vows last night and I think he is going to email them in the next day or so. He read them out loud and said that they are not as long as the vow samples that Rev Day sent to us - did you try reading yours out loud and see how long they were?

Gosh, no, I didn't read them out loud. On paper, they look long, but I know it's different if you read them out loud. I guess I need to do that! Thanks. :goodvibes

[Lisacope]

Almost There!!! Well - all I have left to do is finish getting all of us packed up! I have sent a box of stuff to my WP and sent the Welcome Bags to our resort so they will be there for me when we check in. Everything is done!!! I can't wait to get on the plane!

[padisneyfour]

Wooo Hooo!:cool1: :cool1: :cool1: :yay: :yay:

10-9-8-7-........best wishes for an amazing day!!!

[Keira1387]

Your getting so close!!

[roseviolet]

Ooooo you're renewing your vows on my b-day!! It's a very lucky day, I promise!:goodvibes

[Lisacope]

Ooooo you're renewing your vows on my b-day!! It's a very lucky day, I promise!:goodvibes

Happy Birthday!

[roseviolet]

OMG I just noticed you got married in Pasadena originally. So not only is your vow renewal my b-day your wedding was pretty much in my hometown. I grew up in South Pasadena. Just had to share!

[Lisacope]

Hey Everyone! We leave on Tuesday for our VR on Thursday! I just wanted to thank everyone for your advice and support!!! I am going to try to post pix,etc. as I go along - my family doesn't go anywhere without several laptops!

[roozlilone]

Yeah, I'm so happy for you! Have a safe trip and magical VR! Can't wait to hear all about it! :goodvibes

[Keira1387]

I'm so excited for you! You are almost there!!!

[Mama of Indybride]

Yay!!!

I'm so excited for you!!

Congratulations!!!

Can't wait to read all about it!!

[padisneyfour]

Sounds like everything is ready to go! Have a wonderful and magical time! have fun and enjoy!!:goodvibes

[29apr00]

Almost time!!! Can't wait to hear all about your VR!!!

[pjstevens]

Lisa,

I can't believe it's almost here!!! Wow you have got to be so excited. I glad to hear you'll be taking SOME computers with you so you can give us updates!!! Enjoy your very special day! Can't wait to see pics and hear your TR. Congrats (a couple days early).

[AuroraBorealis]

Yay! Have fun!

I hope you get lots of pixie dust for your VR.

I can't wait to hear all about it!

[IndyBride]

Have a fabulous time! Can't wait to see some pics!

[lov2b@disney]

Have a magical trip! Cant wait to see pix!

[pjstevens]

Lisa,

Congrats and have a wonderful time. If I wait til tomorrow to say Happy Vow Renewal, I'll forget, :confused3

Hope you are having lots of fun already! Can't wait for your TR.

[padisneyfour]

:cool1: :cool1: That is so cool, I can't imagine how excited you are!!!! ENJOY every minute!:goodvibes

[pjstevens]

Oh, I remembered!!!!


Have a wonderful Vow Renewal today!!!!

Congratulations!!!

[lov2b@disney]

HAPPY VOW RENEWAL!

Here's to many more years of love and magic!

[padisneyfour]

ENJOY! Congrats! :goodvibes

[roozlilone]

HAPPY VR DAY!pixiedust: pixiedust:

[29apr00]

Happy Vow Renewal Day!!!

[BayouPrincess]

HAPPY VOW RENEWAL DAY!

[Keira1387]

HAPPY VR DAY!!!

[lurkyloo]

Oh my gosh! It's here! I hope you are having a wonderful day! :goodvibes

[Lisacope]

We are still at WDW - our VR was majorly fantastic!! I am going to start working on a TR. Thanks everyone for the congrats!

[DecemberBride]

I can't wait to hear either! Congrats!

[pjstevens]

We are still at WDW - our VR was majorly fantastic!! I am going to start working on a TR. Thanks everyone for the congrats!

congrats Lisa, can't wait to hear all about yorur VR and see all your pics!!! Have a wonderful time!

[JonetteA]

I hope you have a great day today! We can't wait to here about it.

[AuroraBorealis]

Congrats, Lisa!

Can't wait to hear all about it!

[pink_tink8i8]

congratulations!!!! looking forward to your TR!

[Lisacope]

I am working on my TR but here is my Sneak Peek:

http://www.stvsweddings.com/sneakpeeks/sneakpeeks.html

Username blu-ray Password Magic

I have a few pix from the reception - I will try to post some

[roozlilone]

OMG, I love the video! The candles were so warm & pretty! Can't wait for more! :yay:

[padisneyfour]

OH it was so pretty with all the candles and the petals! I loved the surprise at the end!!! Looking forward to more!!:goodvibes CONGRATS!!!!

[BayouPrincess]

Lisa that video sneak peak is priceless. Everything looked so beautiful. DH's face when he saw you is fantastic. I can't wait to hear more! popcorn::

[tlhbdm]

Beautiful sneak peek. Love the candles

[pjstevens]

Lisa,

You look amazing! Can't wait to see more!

[29apr00]

Beautiful!! The candles were so cool!! And you and dh looked so happy! I loved the streamers!! How cute!

Can't wait to hear more!!

[lov2b@disney]

Lisa-- how beautiful! The WP was gorgeous with all the candles! Cant wait to see more! and hear all about it!

[tinklynn]

Awww Lisa! How gorgeous you looked and how beautiful everything was!
Can't wait to hear about your experience and your very unusual reception "event"!

:tink:Lynn

(And a plus for you is you got to miss our heatwave -- 102 on the Sammamish Plateau on Saturday! :faint: Phew!)

[Lisacope]

I guess I am ready to start this - I have been waiting to have enough pix to add to the report but I don't have any of this part anyway so here we go:

June 24th, 2008
Got up about 5:30am, said goodbye to our pets, picked up by the limo at 6:30am for our 8:50am flight, flew non-stop to MCO. My sister (MOH), my two nephews, my mom and her husband, and my bro and his wife all flew in about the same time, between 5:30-6:30pm. We jumped on Tiff Ttowncar to check in to the BWV. Once we got there we finished assembling the Welcome Bags. We had dinner at the Big River Brew Company and then my sister (MOH) went with me in a taxi and we delivered the welcome bags to the different hotels. We think everyone got their bags, I had told everyone to look for them when they checked in or thereafter. All of our guests stayed on property and we probably could have delivered the bags without being in a taxi but now I wish we had rented a car for the first part of the trip.

[lov2b@disney]

:yay: for starting your TR, I'm so excited to hear all the details!

[pink_tink8i8]

I just watched your sneak peak video and now I'm sitting here with tears in my eyes. It was so beautiful! The candles on either side of the aisle were the most romantic decor I have ever seen. The confetti canons were awesome! I haven't seen those before.Your dress was amazing!!! and girl, your arms are ripped!

[Lisacope]

OMG, I love the video! The candles were so warm & pretty! Can't wait for more! :yay:
Thanks!

OH it was so pretty with all the candles and the petals! I loved the surprise at the end!!! Looking forward to more!!:goodvibes CONGRATS!!!!
It was funny that my dad was so surprised!

Lisa that video sneak peak is priceless. Everything looked so beautiful. DH's face when he saw you is fantastic. I can't wait to hear more! popcorn::
I have been trying to wait for more pix before I post more - I have gotten a couple from my bro and a couple from Randy!

Beautiful sneak peek. Love the candles
Thanks! I thought it would be good to have the candles because I knew it would be dark outside!

Lisa,

You look amazing! Can't wait to see more!
Thanks!

Beautiful!! The candles were so cool!! And you and dh looked so happy! I loved the streamers!! How cute!

Can't wait to hear more!!
Thanks!

Lisa-- how beautiful! The WP was gorgeous with all the candles! Cant wait to see more! and hear all about it!
Thanks!

Awww Lisa! How gorgeous you looked and how beautiful everything was!
Can't wait to hear about your experience and your very unusual reception "event"!

:tink:Lynn

(And a plus for you is you got to miss our heatwave -- 102 on the Sammamish Plateau on Saturday! :faint: Phew!)
Wow! I hope my horsies are okay!

:yay: for starting your TR, I'm so excited to hear all the details!
Thanks girl! I can't wait to hear yours!

I just watched your sneak peak video and now I'm sitting here with tears in my eyes. It was so beautiful! The candles on either side of the aisle were the most romantic decor I have ever seen. The confetti canons were awesome! I haven't seen those before.Your dress was amazing!!! and girl, your arms are ripped!
ohmigoodness! You are so sweet! I work out alot and I am a horse trainer, so I have pretty good muscle tone!

[29apr00]

Yay you started! can't wait to hear all about it!!

[lov2b@disney]

Lisa I just happened on pictures Randy took! I was checking in hopes mine would be up- nope- but I recognized your names!

What a beautiful family! I love the one with your daughter yawning-so funny! Was there a picture of you at the Lion King show???

I cant wait to hear about the reception!!!!

[linzwylie]

were those confetti cannons that you had as you walked back up the aisle?

What a fab idea

Linz xxx :)

[Lisacope]

Lisa I just happened on pictures Randy took! I was checking in hopes mine would be up- nope- but I recognized your names!

What a beautiful family! I love the one with your daughter yawning-so funny! Was there a picture of you at the Lion King show???

I cant wait to hear about the reception!!!!

I don't have very many pix yet - I have written alot of text for my TR but I am waiting to get more pix before I start posting away!

were those confetti cannons that you had as you walked back up the aisle?

What a fab idea

Linz xxx :)

The confetti canons were really fun! I highly recommend them! When we were back in the WP taking pix after the ceremony they were using a really long duster to get some of the streamers down from the rafters!

[Lisacope]

Me and my MOH
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/IMG_0913.jpg

The aisle at the WP decorated for us
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/PavilionwithCandlesrunnerpetals.jpg

At the alter
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/IMG_0919.jpg

Me and DH walking into the pre-reception at Tusker School House
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/IMG_0944.jpg

The tablesettings at the FOLK (with lights on, you can see it better)
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/IMG_0008.jpg

with lights off
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/IMG_0012.jpg

A couple pix from when they were doing the show
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/IMG_0030.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/IMG_0032.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/IMG_0043.jpg

[roozlilone]

OHHHH...love the pics! You look amazing! :love: Can't wait to hear more! :goodvibes

[NEVERENOUGHWDW]

So happy I found this thread!!!!

We have just started thinking of a vow renewal in 2009:lovestruc

[keenercam]

Lisa -- You were absolutely stunning in that dress! I am dying to see more pictures. Everything looks so absolutely fabulous! :banana:

[jetsetter90]

Just read all 14 pages WOW can't wait to see the rest of the pics since right now everything looks AMAZING!!

TTFN
Jetsetter90

Trying to convince DH to have our 25th otherwise GFs and I are having our 50th.

[NEVERENOUGHWDW]

Everything looks and sounds wonderful!!!!!!:goodvibes

[29apr00]

Me and my MOH
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/IMG_0913.jpg

The aisle at the WP decorated for us
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/PavilionwithCandlesrunnerpetals.jpg

At the alter
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/IMG_0919.jpg

Me and DH walking into the pre-reception at Tusker School House
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/IMG_0944.jpg

The tablesettings at the FOLK (with lights on, you can see it better)
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/IMG_0008.jpg

with lights off
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/IMG_0012.jpg

A couple pix from when they were doing the show
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/IMG_0030.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/IMG_0032.jpg
http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z198/lisacope/Vow%20Renewal%20Pictures/IMG_0043.jpg


FOTK?!!?! OMG that's so cool!! I can't wait to hear more about it!!

[pjstevens]

Lisa,

we want to hear more........ see more pics too...... PLEASE!!!!!

[lov2b@disney]

Lisa,

we want to hear more........ see more pics too...... PLEASE!!!!!

Agree! Dying to hear more!popcorn::

[Lisacope]

FOTK?!!?! OMG that's so cool!! I can't wait to hear more about it!!
It was very cool - I still can't believe we really did it. Every guest we had walked out saying "Wow!!!"

Lisa,

we want to hear more........ see more pics too...... PLEASE!!!!!
I'll get started even though I don't have any more pix

OHHHH...love the pics! You look amazing! :love: Can't wait to hear more! :goodvibes
Thanks Jody - I can't wait to hear about your event!

Agree! Dying to hear more!popcorn::
Okay!

Everything looks and sounds wonderful!!!!!!:goodvibes
Thanks - I can't wait to get more of the pix!

Just read all 14 pages WOW can't wait to see the rest of the pics since right now everything looks AMAZING!!


TTFN
Jetsetter90

Trying to convince DH to have our 25th otherwise GFs and I are having our 50th.
You are so sweet!

Lisa -- You were absolutely stunning in that dress! I am dying to see more pictures. Everything looks so absolutely fabulous! :banana:
Thanks Cam - I so wish we could have met in June!!! I should have put two and two together when you asked me about the rooms for your cruise.

I guess Randy is on vacay and I am waiting for a CD from my bro, but I will start posting some of the text tonight.

[29apr00]

are we still waiting for Randy's pics???

[tinklynn]

Not that I'm impatient or anything, but tick, tick, tick! :hourglass LOL Ok maybe I AM impatient but I know how incredible your report will be and I'm just excited!

:tinker: Lynn

[Pinkerbell1983]

Just caught up. I love how the wedding pavilion was decorated, so chic and simple, can I asked how much your floral was, just the WP bit. I want mine to look exactly like that.

[kathymc]

WOW - I cant believe you had FOTLK - that is amazing! Looking forward to reading more (and I am not a disney bride to be I just LOVE your story!)

[tinklynn]

Are you still out there?? Waiting with baited breath......