Bridget & Rich's 1/17/10 Escape: At-home Celebration pictures posted 5/25

[Bridie1996]

Since I received my email from my wedding coordinator (Kathleen Reynolds- if anybody was assigned her, please let me know!) today, I guess it is about time I came out of lurking and started one these myself. I'll try to be consistent with the updates, but admit now that I can't guarantee how regular they will be! And I'll try to keep the spelling/editing errors to a minimum

I apologize in advance if any pictures are huge. You'd think someone who blogs as a hobby would know how spell and post pictures to a discussion board!

So, lets begin at the beginning, shall we? I'm Bridget, he is Rich. We met on myspace since we have a lot of common interests and were in some of the same discussion groups. He lived in Baltimore while I lived in Virginia ( about 45 min. from each other). After much talking we decided to meet up for a beer and agreed to meet at this little irish bar named "Murphy's". We immediately hit it off, and had a great time.

Fast forward 2 years, and I had gotten rid of my dirty good for nothing roommate and Rich had moved in with me. We now live in Virginia with our cats and my dog named Hank. Hank has adopted Rich, but it has been just Hank and I for so long, I still think of his him first as "mine."

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j189/bridie1996/DCengagement057.jpg

The proposal-
It is the morning of May 31st and after coming back from his morning run, he is pretty instant about wanting to take Hank to Roosevelt Island for a walk. Roosevelt Island is a national park here in the DC area, and is gorgeous. It is one of our favorite places to go when the weather is pleasant.

So, slightly suspicious about what his motives are since he is so adamant about going I load Hank up in the car and we set off for RI. Once there, we make straight for the center of the island to see if the fountains have been turned on yet for the summer season and to wonder around the monument to Ole Teddy. It was really pretty hot out, so I thought nothing of it when Rich suggested sitting on a bench next to the fountains and relaxing for a bit. He then starts saying all sorts of things about how much he loves me, and what a unique and special woman I am and how happy he is that I'm in his life. And oblivious me, I'm just like " Uh... ok. Are you feeling alright? What is it with you today?" Then he gets down on one knee, and pulls out the box and asked me to marry him. My response? " WHAT ARE YOU DOING?"

After I got over my shock, I of course said yes. And then he promptly called my Dad. Apparently, he had been planning this for months. Back in May he had made up some story to tell me about having to wear a suit and tie to work because the "big wigs" were coming into the office and everyone had to look nice. I remember the day in question because he had complained so much about it that I told him to put his big boy panties on and deal with it, since it was only one day. Sympathetic, right? :thumbsup2

What I didn't know was that he was actually catching a flight up to NY to have lunch with my parents, ask their permission to marry me and then fly back down to DC and be home in time for dinner so I wouldn't think anything was going on! :lovestruc

My parents had known since MARCH and not said anything. We were actually visiting them the week before he proposed and they had said nothing. But my Dad did ask him what the hold up was. I have to say, the entire plan of flying up to see my parents and getting back down here really impressed and touched me, that he was willing to go that far to do something that he knew would mean that much to me.

As for what took so long- he had the ring specially designed for me. He went looking for a ring and couldn't find anything he liked and decided that since I was a unique and individual woman like no other, that I needed a ring that was just as individual and unique also. So he found a jewelery designer who had a metal smith as a partner and they worked together for months to design and make my ring.

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j189/bridie1996/DSCN0567.jpg

The celtic knotwork goes all the way around the band. I love it!

When we started talking about what we wanted to do for the wedding, eloping was high on the list. Vegas, New Orleans and Gretna Green were on the table. After researching Vegas and doing some thinking I realized that while I'd always joked I just wanted the the cake, dress, and pictures when I got married, having my parents there was something that I really wanted. Because my dad is pretty imobile at this point getting him to anywhere was going to be a logistical nightmare and a huge stress. My Mom is a kidney transplant patient who obviously does not need that stress so that left us to NY, VA or FL ( where they spend their winters).

As soon as I thought about getting married in Florida, Disney came to mind. I practically grew up at the parks, visiting both Disney World and Disneyland nearly ever year. My Dad is an avid Disney collector and I grew up learning how to price original cells from Snow White, Peter Pan etc. He used to quiz me.... seriously.

I first broached the subject to DF tentatively since I knew Disney hadn't been as huge a part of his life as it had mine, and he was receptive to it! He loves Pixar cartoons and liked the idea of combining a mini-vacation and getting married. His one stipulation was that he wanted to get married before Valentines day! :scared1:

So I dived right in. I researched Disney's wedding options, and since we are paying for this ourselves the escape package seemed to make the most monetary sense. Plus, it would give us, who originally wanted to elope, essentially what we wanted. Small, intimate and simple wedding with family and a few close friends. Now, if only our family members would stop reproducing! ( more on this later)

So now, we have our date and a WC. We are getting married at SBP at 2:30 on 1/17/10. I'm still imagining colors, but I think I want something bright. SBP is so crisp and white, I want something to really pop against it. I love the color blue, and was thinking of finding someway to combine it with fuchsia. Pink flowers, blue ribbon? I also have Randy in my sights, and if my car hadn't decided to die on Monday I'd be paying him a deposit this weekend.

We are talking about taking our guests out to dinner, but have already decided to pay the $500 for the extra guests, so that brings us to at least 25 people for dinner! Possibly up to 30 since I have family down there who would have no problem skipping the ceremony and spending the day in the park and then meeting us afterwards for dinner.



So that is it for now. Let the saving and planning begin!

Next up, dress shopping!

[princess22]

Congratulations!!!! Cute engagement story. I have Randy for my photographer, I'm super excited about having him! SBP is beautiful, I'm so excited for you!

Can't wait to hear more!

[ghoulish delight]

Welcome and congratulations!! :goodvibes Your proposal story is very sweet, especially all the consideration your DF put into your ring! :lovestruc Can't wait to read more!

[PrincessShea]

Welcome! I love SBP, you picked a great location! I had a lot of fuchsia in my wedding, I agree it's a great color. I had a lot of hot pink flowers which is close enough to fuchsia for flowers, but I did have the fuchsia chair sashes at SBP...it looked nice :thumbsup2

[BecBennett]

I love your ring! It's beautiful!

So, is there any reasoning behind getting married before Valentine's Day?

[MainStMandy]

Congratulations and welcome!! Your story is very cute! I lived in NoVa for a while. Such a beautiful area:lovestruc Can't wait to read more!

[Bridie1996]

Congratulations!!!! Cute engagement story. I have Randy for my photographer, I'm super excited about having him! SBP is beautiful, I'm so excited for you!

Can't wait to hear more!

Thanks! Now if I could just find a dress, I'd be all set, and can sit back and enjoy this entire process. :goodvibes

Welcome and congratulations!! :goodvibes Your proposal story is very sweet, especially all the consideration your DF put into your ring! :lovestruc Can't wait to read more!

Thanks! And yeah, he really did a great job on the ring and working everything out.

Welcome! I love SBP, you picked a great location! I had a lot of fuchsia in my wedding, I agree it's a great color. I had a lot of hot pink flowers which is close enough to fuchsia for flowers, but I did have the fuchsia chair sashes at SBP...it looked nice :thumbsup2

Your pictures- particularly the one taken from behind you guys, with your train pulled out etc. is the reason why I am currently obsessed with the backs of dresses and the color of the chair sashes!

I love your ring! It's beautiful!

So, is there any reasoning behind getting married before Valentine's Day?

Not really. I think he just pulled it out of nowhere as an arbitrary day. I asked him why, and he said he just doesn't want to wait. He's found the person he wants to spend the rest of his life with, so wants to get on with the spending. I tease him about wanting to be married before he is 40 and on the shelf though. (the big 4-0 happens in April)

Congratulations and welcome!! Your story is very cute! I lived in NoVa for a while. Such a beautiful area:lovestruc Can't wait to read more!

Thanks, and you're right this is a beautifule area. I love living here. Close enough to family that I can see them, but far enough away that they have to call first. :laughing:

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

Congratulations!
What a great story! I love the ring and can't wait to hear the details! :thumbsup2

[Bridie1996]

We just got off the phone with our planner, Kathleen, and I thought some info she gave us might be helpful to other Escape brides- especially those with a larger guest count.

We asked about minimums for the St. James room for dinner. Now, our wedding is on a Sunday, and we paying the $500 for the extra guests. Add into that my teenage cousins who have said they want to come for dinner and/or dessert party and we are reaching about 28 people. Kathleen said we'd have to use both A & B sides of the St. James room for a group that size. She quoted the minimums as $1,500 Sun- Thursday and $1,800 Friday and Saturday.

HTH someone!

[honey2741]

We asked about minimums for the St. James room for dinner. Now, our wedding is on a Sunday, and we paying the $500 for the extra guests. Add into that my teenage cousins who have said they want to come for dinner and/or dessert party and we are reaching about 28 people. Kathleen said we'd have to use both A & B sides of the St. James room for a group that size. She quoted the minimums as $1,500 Sun- Thursday and $1,800 Friday and Saturday.

HTH someone!

Congrats on your wedding. That is great info to share. Since the St. James room has been a buzz topic lately for Escape brides looking for a private dining location. Who knew they charged extra for more people at an event that is optional?! Thanks for sharing.

[Bridie1996]

hmmm I should clarify something. :scared: The $500 charge for extra guests was for the ceremony, not the St. James room. Normally you can only have 18 guests at an escape ceremony, but when we signed our contract it included a clause that said we could have an additional 5 guests for $500.

So we have the 23 guests, us, and a few additional family members that are going to spend the day in the park and then join us for whatever we decide to do afterwards.

[Bridie1996]

I've been shopping for a dress for nearly a month now and have yet to find "the one". I've found plenty of dresses I like, but none that are just wow... I've got to have this. Has anyone else had this problem, or is it just me? Please, tell me I'm not the only one who doesn't break out in tears when she puts on a wedding dress!


My friends are tired of hearing me talk about the dresses, and the different lines and fabrics etc. I went to Filene's Basement for their bridal sale (wow), but had already narrowed it down to two Maggie Sottero dresses, and I didn't see a single MS dress there. I tried about 5 dresses before I got hot, frustrated and just fed up and left.

So, the two I've narrowed it down to.. I like them both, but for different reasons.

The Adelaide:
http://www.maggiesottero.com/dress.aspx?keywordText=Adelaide&line=m&keywordType=any&page=0&pageSize=12&style=A3157

I'll admit, I love the way it makes 'the girls" look. And the train..I love the pleats and the way it falls, almost like water. The satin is almost buttery. A great dress. I tried it on, and luckily the place let me take pictures. I could have gown down at least one more size from this one, so my waist would look even smaller. I'd probably wear a hoop under the skirt to make it fuller as well.



http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j189/bridie1996/AdelaideFront_cropped-1.jpg



and the back...
http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j189/bridie1996/Adelaidback.jpg




Dress #2: Lavina Marie.
http://www.maggiesottero.com/dress.aspx?keywordText=lavina+marie&line=m&keywordType=any&pageSize=12&page=1&style=A3177

I love the line it gives me. The dropped waist lengthens everything and really compliments my shape. And I really like the fact that it has a corset inside, under the zipper/buttons. But the train is very simple. :(

Unfortunately, the place that had this one wouldn't let me take pictures so I had to sneak them in the dressing room. :rolleyes1

They were watching like hawks and wouldn't let any of my friends in there, so the pictures aren't the best. And have you ever tried to zip up a wedding dress by yourself? I got my work out that day!

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j189/bridie1996/DSCN0836.jpg

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j189/bridie1996/DSCN0837.jpg

again, not the best pictures but it was the best I could do with them standing outside asking how I was doing. They really don't do the dress justice since I couldn't sinch up the inner corset myself.

Sorry about the armpit views. Thank gawd I shaved that day! :scared1:

So there is my dilema. I like them both. Can easily see myself wearing either one.


But can't seem to decide!

[pezaddict231]

I love Maggie dresses! Out of those two I like the Adelaide better, I like the top of it better. I also like the side gathers.

I hate places that don't let you take pictures, so silly!

Do you have time to keep shopping or do you pretty much have to order right now? I didn't burst out into tears but when I put on my dress I knew it was the one, and I just couldn't get it out of my head. But everyone is different.

Good luck deciding!

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

Adelaide is your dress! It looks beautiful!

[Bridie1996]

I love Maggie dresses! Out of those two I like the Adelaide better, I like the top of it better. I also like the side gathers.

I hate places that don't let you take pictures, so silly!

Do you have time to keep shopping or do you pretty much have to order right now? I didn't burst out into tears but when I put on my dress I knew it was the one, and I just couldn't get it out of my head. But everyone is different.

Good luck deciding!



Adelaide is your dress! It looks beautiful!


Thanks ladies! :goodvibes

I'm leaning towards Adelaide right now. The dress I REALLY want to try on the Lavina Royale- it is just like Lavina Marie, but has a fuller skirt with some pick-ups, but not too many. I just have this feeling that if I put that on, there would be no question. But no one around here has it and quite frankly is out of my budget.

I'm at the point where I can't wait any longer- my wedding is in January so I need to order now to ensure I'll have enough time for alterations. I'm thinking I'll order the Adelaide, and then go to the trunk show scheduled in VA in November and see if they have the Lavina Royale in a sample that I can buy. If not, I have a dress that looks great on and I beautiful. If they do- well, I'll cross that bridge when/if I come to it.

[MainStMandy]

Oh I love the adelaide!! Very beautiful and has a very nice shape to it!

[ghoulish delight]

Another vote for the Adelaide! It's beautiful, looks beautiful on you and seems very flattering! ;)

[Wish on a Star]

Wow- you have great taste- SBP, St. James Room, and Randy (just like me) :rotfl:

I wanted to say how adorable it was that DFi flew to get the permission from your parents! Sounds like you got a great one!!!

I love both of those dresses- from what I can see from the second one that is! lol

[Safflower]

The Adelaide looks just beautiful on you! It really gives you a great shape :goodvibes

Also, I just love your ring! The knotwork around the band is a great detail that makes it super unique- what a great idea!

[Bridie1996]

Another vote for the Adelaide! It's beautiful, looks beautiful on you and seems very flattering! ;)

Thanks!

Wow- you have great taste- SBP, St. James Room, and Randy (just like me) :rotfl:

I wanted to say how adorable it was that DFi flew to get the permission from your parents! Sounds like you got a great one!!!

I love both of those dresses- from what I can see from the second one that is! lol

Thanks. I read your PJ. The AA dress you chose was actually the very first dress I tried on, and my first choice when I started the dress shopping. I loved it, and couldn't wait to try it on. And then it just didn't sit right on me! I tried it on at 2 different stores, in 2 different sizes and was so disapoinated when I realized it wasn't going to work for me. I'm jealous you get to wear it!:rolleyes2 that's me, green with envy.

Our coordinator has said that the st. james room isn't available the night of our wedding, a confrence group is using it. Right now, we're waiting to see what comes of the Spoodles re-do before we make any decisions. We love greek food, so we're hoping they'll be able to work with a group our size.

The Adelaide looks just beautiful on you! It really gives you a great shape :goodvibes

Also, I just love your ring! The knotwork around the band is a great detail that makes it super unique- what a great idea!

Thanks, I asked one of my male friends and he said the adelaide all the way because the lines of it "create a nice and inviting rack". And the something about a Mummy for the lavina. :rotfl:

[Bridie1996]

x

[ghoulish delight]

I'm sorry to hear about the drama! :guilty: Things go smoothly for so long and then BAM! Drama comes out of nowhere. It seems like you can't plan a wedding without some of some sort cropping up. I hope that your talk with your cousin goes smoothly, and she was just having a bad day or something. Let us know what happens! :hug: :hug:

[Bridie1996]

I went to order the adelaide today, and when I got the store the woman there said she had another dress, also by maggie sottero, that she thought I might like and wanted me to try on before I confirmed on adelaide.

:eek:

Pictures below. I like both dresses and it is coming down to which one compliments my shape better. Toughts? :confused:

Adelaide is satin, and the other one (JSM1106) is taffeta.

The JSM was a size too small, so the girls would sit better in the right size..

Adelaide


http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j189/bridie1996/AdelaideFront_cropped-1.jpg

JSM 1106


http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j189/bridie1996/Image2.jpg

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j189/bridie1996/Image.jpg

[ghoulish delight]

You know what? I think I favor the new one! It makes your shape look very lovely! :teeth: I love the detailing on the bottom of the dress too! Just my opinion of course! ;)

[MainStMandy]

Oh I think I prefer the second one also!! I love the shape and the detailing!!

[Beep]

Oh the second one definitely! Absolutely gorgeous :goodvibes

[Bridie1996]

The dress has been orderd, and we've recived the addition to our contract for the dessert party. Plus, best of all.. today is my birthday!!princess:

I woke up to a lovely card from DF and the one thing I asked for- the first season of True Blood. I can't wait to start watching it tonight!

[CassIS300]

Beautiful dresses....Both are a good choice..I cant chose!

[ghoulish delight]

Yay for dress ordering and dessert party on the horizon! Plus, of course - :bday:

[Bridie1996]

Thanks for the birthday wishes! My birthday was a great day, but I managed to make up for it today. I broke my ankle this morning walking out to the car. I stepped off the curb onto a rock - which I totally hadn't seen-my ankle twisted and as I fell I heard a loud SNAP. DF was there and used to be an EMT so stayed calm & cool while I cursed like the long island girl I am and tried not to cry. The Doc in the ER said it is not a displaced fracture so I shouldn't need a cast, but I have to go see an orthopedist to be sure. I'm going to try to get in to see him tomorrow but I'm not holding my breath!

Okay, off to take some Tylenol w/ codeine since I'm allergic to vicodin.

[BecBennett]

ooh, ouchy! I've luckily never broken anything, so I don't know how much it hurts, all I can think of is lots!

So which dress did you end up ordering?

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

So sorry to hear about the ankle fx! Feel better soon!

Also, sorry to hear about the drama...I think it is in the air-but I know that doesn't make it any easier. :hug: I hope that this all works out for you. Do you think maybe she is jealous and that anything she can do to jepordize your day is her MO...even if she doesn't mean to do so?:confused3

I've been in contact with Rev Jack Day and he has been wonderful. :thumbsup2

Feel better! Hope all goes well at the orthopedist!

What dress did you get?

[MainStMandy]

Aww that sucks...and to be allergic to vicodine:sad2: Feel better soon!

[Bridie1996]

ooh, ouchy! I've luckily never broken anything, so I don't know how much it hurts, all I can think of is lots!

So which dress did you end up ordering?

Thanks... This was my second time breaking something and my first trip to the ER for myself. ( My first break was my tailbone. Not much they can do for that, other than give me pain meds. Which is how I found out I was allergic to vicodin!)



So sorry to hear about the ankle fx! Feel better soon!

Also, sorry to hear about the drama...I think it is in the air-but I know that doesn't make it any easier. :hug: I hope that this all works out for you. Do you think maybe she is jealous and that anything she can do to jepordize your day is her MO...even if she doesn't mean to do so?:confused3

I've been in contact with Rev Jack Day and he has been wonderful. :thumbsup2

Feel better! Hope all goes well at the orthopedist!

What dress did you get?

Thanks, I've talked things over with the cousin, so things are okay between the two of us right now. But I still don't think she'll be doing the ceremony. I've yet to talk to her about it that part though, I'm leaving it alone for a bit so the wounds aren't so fresh from this last disagreement.

Aww that sucks...and to be allergic to vicodine:sad2: Feel better soon!
Thanks!


So the update- I've been to the orthopedist, and have a boot for 6 weeks. He said that my tendons and muscles pulled away from the bone so hard and so fast that I pulled a piece of bone off with it. But that the important thing now is to make sure my tendons heal correctly and not too loose so that I end up with an ankle that rolls all the time. Actually, he said "loosey goosie ankle" but that is what he meant. :)

I'm getting around on it pretty well now, and I think I'll be going back to work tomorrow.

All this time at home though has been giving me lots of time for planning and that may not be a good thing. I've started second guessing myself on the color choices.:scared1:

My first choice was fuschia flowers with cobalt blue ribbon etc. We'd have the mad hatter cake in cobalt and white with Fuschia gerber daisies as the cake topper, the ribbon on my bouquet would be blue and my shoes would be the same blue. I even made an inspiration board for it:

The ring/flower pic in the middle is one I took of my ring for the engagement announcement that we sent out to family who hadn't met one of us ( my fam in california who hasn't met him, his fam in texas who hasn't met me ec.)

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j189/bridie1996/Royalandfuschia.jpg



I've started thinking that it is too 1980s. so then I started considering fuschia/orange/teal: ( yes, that is Lurkyloo's picture in there- hope she doesn't mind!)

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j189/bridie1996/tealandfuschia.jpg

I like the teal combo too, but am stuck on wearing those cobalt blue satin flats.

So, do you ladies think the cobalt/fuschia go together? is it too 1980s? Does it look likes something out of 16 candles or Miami Vice?

I really want something that will POP against the white background of SBP.

The dress... after much thinking and drooling over pictures, I decided to go with Maggie Sottero's Yara.

http://www.maggiesottero.com/dress.aspx?keywordText=yara&keywordType=any&page=0&pageSize=12&style=J1209


It has the asymetrical wrap style waist and a-line skirt that looked so good on me in that last dress, but is satin instead of the paper-thin taffeta that I really didn't like from the last dress.

It has a modified sweetheart neckline so I don't have to worry about falling out into the weddding cake, ( i'm a bit chesty in case you couldn't tell from the other pictures) but still get the illusion of a full sweetheart with the beading.

Plus, when I started looking for dresses I told my MOH that I was looking for something classy, elegant and not too dated. And this dress fits all those things. Plus, I LOVE the fact that the corset is hidden on the inside and it has buttons all the way down the back. I'm obsessed with those buttons.

No pictures for now though, it comes in at the end of November and as soon as it does, I'll have pictures! oh- and I'll be getting it in pearl.

[MainStMandy]

Ok I love both color schemes you posted!!! Beautiful, but I think I love the one with teal and orange a bit better.

AND OMG!! Your dress is just beautiful!!!

[pezaddict231]

I think both color schemes are great, but I do think I like the teal one better, but I just like teal better in general. :thumbsup2

Beautiful dress! I loved that Maggie dress for a long time, but it didn't turn out to be the dress for me, I'm glad I get to see someone else wear it. :goodvibes I didn't even know it had an interior corset, those corsets are amazing!

I hope you feel better soon!

[BecBennett]

I like the first colour scheme better, I think the cobalt is much more dramatic compared to the teal.

[Bridie1996]

I had a talk with Kathleen today, and then DF and we decided a few things. We are moving the ceremony up to noon, followed by a late lunch/early dinner at the attic and then the dessert party in UK. :banana:

So happy to have the decisions finally made! :cool1: This will give us about 4 hours in between the end of "linner" and having to meet for the dessert party. It will work out well, I think, for some of the older guests who can go back to the hotel room, rest up and relax before the dessert party.

Next step is figuring out the logistics to get everyone to the dessert party- I'll be posting questions about that as soon as I get the them organized.

I've also chosen the color scheme and will post an inspiration board for it, probably later tonight.

[BecBennett]

Sounds good, I'm thinking about a similar time line, but haven't decided yet.

[Bridie1996]

Today was my phonecall with Rosie. First of all, I agree with everyone else's reviews. She is great! So very nice and sweet and she was always ready with a suggestion. And I felt confident that if I chose something that wouldn't work with everything else she'd say so.

I had changed the colors slightly. I decided that the cobalt/fuschia was too harsh and needed another color to soften it a bit, and decided to add green. So the new colors are blue/green with splashes of pink. The pink will come into play with the flowers, and the MOH will be wearing a royal blue dress.

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j189/bridie1996/mosaic1fcb1154e5d2fb0a38e86ca1c0736.jpg

So, the floral as it stands right now:

My bouquet: Free form; fuschia anemones, medium pink roses and light pink calla lillies with green orchids and bear grass. It will be wrapped with royal blue ribbon to match the MOH's dress.

MOH Bouquet: Pink calla lillies. Will be wrapped with royal blue ribbon to match the dress.

DF Bout: Pink rose and green orchid
BM Bout: Pink calla lilly

I had been debating between gerber daisies and anemones. Both are favorites of mine, but Rosie said that she thought the daisies might overpower the rest of the flowers and that she wasn't sure she could get them in a bright enough pink that early in January. So Anemones it is! :banana:

I love them, and think they'll give a great contrast with their little black button centers.

Rosie suggested we bring the blue into the bouquet also and is going to send me a picture of delphiniums which is the flower she suggested we use since hydrangeas wouldn't work with the bouquet and are iffy on the shade of blue we can get.

She is also going to be sending me pictures of SBP decorations with price breakdowns and I'll be sending her some pictures of my ideas to get pricing so I can make some final decisions on the decorations.

I'm also considering putting some hidden mickeys in the bouts and bouquets as a little surprise for the other 3. :goodvibes

[pezaddict231]

love the new color scheme, I think the green really softens things up a bit but you can still have that touch of pink that will really pop.

Sounds like you had a great floral meeting too!

[Bridie1996]

love the new color scheme, I think the green really softens things up a bit but you can still have that touch of pink that will really pop.

Sounds like you had a great floral meeting too!

Thanks! And yeah, Rosie is really easy to work with, and I loved it when she pretty much told me straight out that if I chose anything that wouldn't work she'd let me know.


Today, I'm working on the music for the ceremony, and anyand all help or suggestions are welcome.

1) DF wants a song from Wall-E, which we know we'd have to provide. But SBP doesn't allow for a groom's entrance song according to the questionnaire? What if we are doing a first look? Would we be able to time it so that he arrives after everyone is seated?

2) do I request songs for the violinist to play while our guests are being seated? from reading other TR, it looks like the WC meets the guests at the ESPN zone area and then walks them over.

3) how long is the SBP aisle? I've found a song I love, "Carolan's Welcome" and I'd like to use it in part for the processional, with possibly Canon in D or A dream is a wish your heart makes for the MOH. Do I then choose something to announce that the bride is coming in, and then have it go into the song that I'm actually walking down the aisle to?

Carolan's welcome:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ay1XaIzaya8

[Bridie1996]

It has been a while since I posted in my PJ, we've been so busy!

I received my completed estimate yesterday and thought I'd start off with that.

1 Escape wedding package @ 4749.91
1 high resolution DVD exchange @395.00
1 wedding cake upgrade charge @ $150.00
Additional guest charge @ $500


Luncheon
24 beer and wine bar @20.00 each ........$618.55
4 Soft Drinks & H20 @ 12.50 each......$64.43
24 Neptune's Italian Festival modified @ $43.50 each.... $1345.35
4 Child's Gus & Jaq Lunch @24.50 each......$126.29
Estimated event total: $2154.62

Dessert party
Custom Dessert buffet @ $23.00...... $829.89
1 Outdoor set-up fee @ 75.00........$75.00
1 venu package UK Lochside......$266.25
18 Viewing fees @ 12.95...........$233.10


Floral Add-ons
Personal
MOH Bouquet..... $74.00
Hand tied french style bouquet of green dendrobium orchids accented with 3 swarovski crystal mickeys in dark blue with the stem wrapped 75% in blue satin ribbon.
Best Man Bout..... 15.50
Green dendrobium orchid with single blue crystal mickey.

Ceremony
12 stems of silk pink cherry blossoms... $260.00
2 columns...$25.00
2 glass vases...30.00
Set fee for chair cards... $25.00

Luncheon
petals for luncheon tables (9 tables @ 5.00 each)...45.00
Move Fee...$25.00
Set fee for picture frames.. $25.00

Dessert Party
LED Cylinders w/ confetti for desser party..... 8 @ 12.00.....$96.00
cylinder rental...$40.00


In other news, my dress is here and I love it. I'll be making an appointment with my seamstress to have my first fitting next week and we are working on our programs, gift bags and the ceremony.

We're trying to get as much done by Christmas as possible so that we can relax b/w Christmas and the wedding. The next few weeks are looking hectic!:scared1:

[MainStMandy]

Wow everything sounds great! I can't wait to see how the Cherry Blossoms look...I love those!!

[Chilly]

Just found your PJ everything sounds great. I've got Kathleen as well, she is the best.

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

Everything looks great! Love the color choices and the dress! My GOSH! Awesome!

[Bridie1996]

Just a quick posting on my lunch break!

Okay, my MOH was in town yesterday, and she stopped by to help me try on the dress and we took some pictures.

My first fitting is tomorrow, so this is just a preliminary. Let me know what you think!

(please excuse the towel in the background, we needed something for contrast)

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j189/bridie1996/Dress002-1-1.jpg

[girli565]

Just a quick posting on my lunch break!

Okay, my MOH was in town yesterday, and she stopped by to help me try on the dress and we took some pictures.

My first fitting is tomorrow, so this is just a preliminary. Let me know what you think!

(please excuse the towel in the background, we needed something for contrast)

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j189/bridie1996/Dress002-1-1.jpg
It's so pretty!

[Chilly]

I love the colour

[weedee]

pretty dress! The fabric looks super soft :cutie:. And your color choices are great, I love bold colors paired together! Are we allowed to get daisies as our bouquets for the Escape weddings (I don't have my coordinator yet)? I was under the impression they had to be like roses or calla lilies. Very cool if we can, I love Gerber daisies!

[Bridie1996]

It's so pretty!

Thanks!

I love the colour
It is Maggie Sottero's "pearl" color. In person it has a beautiful sheen to it, not quite pinkish amost.


pretty dress! The fabric looks super soft :cutie:. And your color choices are great, I love bold colors paired together! Are we allowed to get daisies as our bouquets for the Escape weddings (I don't have my coordinator yet)? I was under the impression they had to be like roses or calla lilies. Very cool if we can, I love Gerber daisies!

Thanks! My first fitting is at 1, and I'm hoping by the time she is done, it will look better on.

And yes, you're allowed to have daisies. They are a year round flower, but the impession I got from Rosie is that sometimes it can be difficult to get a particular color. When it is time to talk to Rosie, have some inspiration picures ready to email her, and let her know what your favorite flowers are, along with your color scheme for the wedding. I told her to please voice any opinions on what would or wouldn't work, and she did exactly that.
:thumbsup2

[pezaddict231]

the dress is so pretty and very flattering on you! I really love the color too!

[LLLBelle]

I love you story, that is adorable that he flew up to ask permission from your parents.

The dress looks lovely on you!

[Bridie1996]

Another one of my random, drive-by postings. :goodvibes

I realized this morning that a week from today, I will be at Disney World! :banana:

We are driving down to FL to spend Christmas with my family, and will be visiting his grandmother on Weds. morning. Disney just happens to be the 1/2way point between his grandmother's house and my family,:rolleyes1 so we're going to stop and spend the night there instead of driving straight through.

So, a quick 24 hour trip. I've been to DW before during Christmas season, but never on Christmas Eve! YAY! :woohoo:

[tiggerrifficheidi]

Sorry I'm so late coming to your PJ. Your wedding is just 2 days before our 1st anny. I hope you have warm weather (we did on the wedding day!)

I love your dress. I had a "not white" dress and it definitely looked awesome (IMHO). I can't wait to see your pictures (and your anemones).

We're going to be at the world for a quick "sort of anniversary" trip from 1/22-26, so we wish you the best!

[Bridie1996]

Sorry I'm so late coming to your PJ. Your wedding is just 2 days before our 1st anny. I hope you have warm weather (we did on the wedding day!)

I love your dress. I had a "not white" dress and it definitely looked awesome (IMHO). I can't wait to see your pictures (and your anemones).

We're going to be at the world for a quick "sort of anniversary" trip from 1/22-26, so we wish you the best!

Thanks so much for stopping by! I'll admit that your weddings were what first inspired me to suggest a Disney wedding to DF. I remember sending an email to my MOH with links to your threads and the following phonecall about how best to approach DF with the prospect. :)

[tiggerrifficheidi]

I am really glad I could help :) I hope the last minute prep is going well!

[Bridie1996]

We're down to 12 days!! I can't believe it!

We are trying to get as much done as possible by Thursday so we can ship a final box down to my parent's house. It will have to be overnighted or 2 day air, but it will cut down on what we carry with us since we are flying.

Last minute prep is going well, we've been super busy. DF has the layout for the programs, and I wrote it up so tonight we'll be putting the finishing touches on those before printing out and assembling them. About 1 1/2 months ago I sent him links with program designs and of course he had to choose the most complicated one. :rotfl:

They are something he has worked really hard on, so once we have a finished copy I'll take a picture and post it.

I'm busy writing up schedules and directions to go in the info packets for everyone an making phonecalls to confirm appointmets.

I have my final fitting today- I had a nightmare last night that she completely screwed up the dress. Spilled coffee on it, took the buttons and zipper off and made it a corset back so tht it looked totally different, that type of stuff. I think the stress is starting to get to me.

My wedding band arrived yesterday! DF had the engagement ring designed by a private jewler here in VA, and her studio is about 4 blocks from where I work so I stopped by to pick it up. It was actually ready before Christmas, but when we went to pick it up the engraver had misspelled the inscription so we had to wait for it to be redone. I said leave it, because I thought it would be a cute story but DF was adamant about it.

Money is tight right now, so we had it made in sterling silver and then "aged" so it matches the platinum of the engagement ring in tone. After we get back from Disney and have some time to catch our breathes, she'll be making another band out of platinum that will have the sapphires in it to match the band of the engagement ring perfectly.

But for now, I love the silver one.

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j189/bridie1996/19251_239061738570_646933570_317314.jpg

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j189/bridie1996/19251_239061748570_646933570_317314.jpg

That is it for now! Just super busy, trying not to get stressed out ( yeah right) and hoping my dress is perfect this afternoon!

[MainStMandy]

How exciting!! I don't know if I ever commented on your dress but it's gorgeous!!! I love it!!

Good luck at your fitting...and remember to breathe!!

[Pirate's Princess]

I can't believe I haven't posted before. I've read it like 3 times, and keep getting interrupted when I'm about to post! But congratulations! 12 days is so exciting! The wedding band is gorgeous and goes wonderfully with the e-ring. Have fun at the dress fitting!

[SuzeQ]

Your dress is beautiful and so are the rings! I've enjoyed reading your story:goodvibes. Congrats! and Good Luck with the dress fitting. Keep us posted.

Suze

[Bridie1996]

I had an entire post with vendor reviews written out and hit "preview post" and this dang thing had logged me out.. so now I have to go and re-write it.

Here are some teaser pictures from friends and family.


http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/19448_1338711545535_1163543667_3101.jpg

The MOH
http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/Ginger.jpg

Waiting for me to tell him to turn around
http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/DSC08929.jpg

http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/DSC08938.jpg

checking out their hidden mickeys...
http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/DSC08918.jpg

http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/staircase.jpg

DH had done this bustle. When I saw the pic I asked why he'd done it so high and he said he didn't want it to drag on the floor and get me upset cause it had gotten dirty...
http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/dancing.jpg

My Mom and I chatted the whole way down the aisle.
http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/Mommewalking.jpg

http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/cakewithcarosel.jpg

[MainStMandy]

YAY! I was just checking your thread to see if you had pics...and you do!!

You looked beautiful!! That dress is just gorgeous!

[Chilly]

I love the bustle! Can't wait to hear more.

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

YEAH! Pics! Can't wait for the TR!!!

[Bridie1996]

We don't have the professional pictures yet, so this will be a bit incomplete.

Overall, the day went great! It was gorgeous out, sunny and warm but super windy. There was one snafu. The cake cutting ceremony was moved from SBP to the Attic because of the wind and after trying to take some pictures after the ceremony, Randy suggested we move the family pictures indoors as well. Kathleen, DH and I all agreed and all of the guests were told that the pictures and cake cutting would both be taking place in the attic and to head over there. Apparently everyone understood but my family, who ended up going back to my parent’s villa! :confused3

DH and I walked around the Lagoon to take some pictures with Randy and Regina so we had no idea until we arrived at the Attic. I had to call them and tell them to get their backsides up to the attic if they wanted pictures taken!

Not that big a deal in the end, since they got up there but I just felt like we might have missed some good pictures in the confusion. I don’t know how they didn’t understand what they were supposed to do when all the other guests did, but there you have it.

Kathleen Reynolds-
She was great to work with. Always prompt in her responses to me, and if she didn’t know an answer to a question she kept me updated on the status of finding out the answer. She called me the day I arrived, the day before the wedding and the morning of the day to check in on me and give me the news that the cake cutting was being moved to the Attic. She made the right decision there, despite how badly we wanted the pretty pictures of the cake cutting at SBP, we wanted bugs in the cake less! The day of, she was polite and personable to everyone even when telling them that DH and I couldn’t stay to chat because we had pictures to take and were on a schedule. I’d told her the week before the wedding that I was concerned that the families would rush us when we arrived at the Boardwalk and want to talk/greet/take pictures there and we would get so caught up we’d miss the chance to take pictures with Randy before the ceremony. And when that exact thing started happening, she stepped in and helped out. This way, no one could get angry and DH or myself. It worked out perfectly. She was a lifesaver to me with a glass of water at one point, and I felt confident that I could relax and enjoy myself knowing she had things in hand. Any bride who gets her should be happy.

Rosie-
I loved my flowers despite them being a bit more purple than I thought they would be. I was expecting something more pink and green with a shot of purply-blue.

http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/DSC08935-1.jpg

It grew on me though and I think it turned out very pretty.

They weren’t sure about how I wanted the MOH’s bouquet so they actually made two versions, both of which were delivered to our room that morning so we could choose. The man who delivered them, btw, seemed even more excited than we were about all the flowers and was as sweet as could be. Here is a pic of the MOH’s bouquet. You can’t tell in it, but there are 3 crystal hidden mickey’s in it, in blue to match her dress.

http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/Ginger-1.jpg

Randy-
I don’t have his pictures yet, but he was great the day of the wedding. He showed up early and immediately started taking pictures. I hadn’t laid out the jewelry yet so he started pulling things out and setting up a shot of the accessories/veil. He kept us on schedule, and it was a huge relief knowing he’d been through Disney weddings and knew all the ins and outs. On our walk back to the Attic, he even had us use a back door into the attic so we didn’t have to walk all the way to entrance of the Boardwalk hotel to get upstairs and then backtrack towards the attic. I had sent him some emails letting him know what type of shots we like and don’t like and he remembered them all. He was very patient with my family and took my being slightly scatterbrained that day in stride.

Regina-
Our Disney photographer. We can’t say enough good things about her. Again, we don’t have the pictures yet but just based on working with her that day and the pictures we saw on her camera I’d suggest you request her if you’re using Disney photography for anything.

Initially, we were going to use Disney for the ceremony and then Randy for pictures afterwards and had requested Regina for the ceremony and MK/Epcot shoot. When we decided to extend the time with Randy and have him photograph the ceremony as well Kathleen told us when we use Disney as a secondary photographer they don’t allow us to request one specifically. It still showed up on our BEO though, and I was thrilled when I saw her in the Boardwalk lobby that day. She was helpful outside of photography too, and brought me my flats when I started complaining that my heels were killing me!

She was respectful of Randy as the primary photographer, and didn’t give us an attitude at all about not using Disney as primary. She even said that she enjoyed it, since it let her shoot photojournalistic style instead of posed shots.

For the MK/Epcot shoot, she was enjoyable to spend time with that early in the morning and it had more of a feeling of hanging out with a friend in the parks. She was also willing to try different things than the usual park pictures and welcomed suggestions from us on poses and spots for pictures.

They were replacing the flowers in front of the castle that morning, so we had to adjust our schedule a bit and it took longer than expected so we didn’t get a chance to take the pictures on Main St. that I wanted, but she made sure we got the iconic pictures with the castle by keeping us in the park until the last possible minute. They were literally telling us to get out because guests were coming in. To make up for the lack of pics on Main st. she took us through two extra countries in Epcot. We had Japan, Italy, Morocco and Paris. By the time we were done with Paris we were exhausted and we can’t wait to see the pictures!

Patricia LeJune-
Wow, that is all I have to say. She was awesome. Super friendly and funny and she did a great job too. I have long, curly,unruly hair and the MOH has long straight hair that won’t hold a curl for anything. She made us both look great, and my hair stayed up all day through the high winds and a nap! The make-up wasn’t over done either we just looked like prettier versions of our everyday selves. I didn't have a trial run with her, but made sure to bring lots of inspiration pics with me and was clear on what I wanted : texture, soft, romantic. And what I didn't want: prom hair, shellacked to my head. Plus, she uses MAC which is my favorite. :goodvibes

More to come...

[TinkLoverSam]

Loving the report so far. Happy to hear from another Escape bride, esp one who is using the same photographer and stylist!

[gemmybear83]

Awww I love your photos so far, you look beautiful! Congratulations on your wedding and I am looking forward to reading more :goodvibes

[amyy]

Love your pictures and vendor reviews. I am using some of the same ones too.

You were a beautiful bride!!

[tiggerrifficheidi]

Beautiful! Congratulations!

[malibustacey]

oh I cant wait to see more photos! Esp of the Attic! I think your bouquet was lush!

Love the photo of Randy doing the guys bouts and getting them ready! Too cool!

More please!

[disneybex]

Your dress was absolutely gorgeous, and great planner, really useful, I can't wait to get pencilled in :yay:

[Bridie1996]

The Attic-
This area was perfect for our needs. We wanted to keep things relaxed and definitely didn’t want a meal in a conference room. I spend a lot of time in them for work and I wanted something “different”. We had originally looked at restaraunts but as our numbers grew, we needed more space. Enter, The Attic. I LOVED this sight. So much so that I’ve already told DH I want to have my 40th birthday party at Disney, in The Attic.
It has an intimate, relaxed vibe while also having the hustle and bustle of the boardwalk below. The view was incredible too!

We chose to use an Ipod and docking station instead of Disney for music, and it worked out fine for us. It was a warm, sunny day so most of our guests sat outside on the patio for lunch and watched the world pass by. DH and I sat inside at our “sweetheart” table and the MOH, BM and their guests sat inside with us. MIL came in and laughed and asked why we weren’t seated outside, but it was perfect for us. It gave us a nice bit of peace and quiet in the middle of everything.

My favorite picture from the attic so far is this one. Bonnie from STVS had asked us to come out to the patio for a bit and “pretend” to be dancing since she wouldn’t be there for our 1st dance. We had our families and friends running around the attic, talking, taking pictures etc and the public passing below on the boardwalk but we were in our own little world, isolated while surrounded. It was an incredible feeling.

http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/dancing.jpg

STVS Video-I know I’m starting to sound like a broken record, but they were great too. We added them at the last minute, and despite having another Disney wedding that night (I later found out that my cousin knows the groom from that one), they fit us in. Stan met us when we arrived at The Boardwalk and he and Randy made me laugh before I even made it into the lobby. Stan and Bonnie we unobtrusive and most of the time I wasn’t even aware they were there. We’re waiting on the final video, but they had the sneak peek up ASAP, which was much appreciated by those who couldn’t attend.

The cake-
I know there have been lots of reports lately that the cakes have been a bit dry, but ours was delicious. We upgraded to the Mad Hatter cake so it was made at the GF bakery, not the BW. The flavors we chose were: Bottom: Vanilla cake with Amoretto mousse, Top: Chocolate cake with Raspberry mousse.

My mouth is watering now just thinking about it. DH even asked me the other night if we can get them to ship up another cake for our party in the spring! The bakery did a great job on it all. I really didn’t care about the cake-topper, the only one I found that I liked was a porcelain piece that had mickey and Minnie in a tea cup, but I wasn’t willing to spend that much on a cake topper, so I told Kathleen I was leaving it up to the bakery to make an executive decision. Here is the cake:
http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/cakewithcarosel.jpg

http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/cake1.jpg

Ron Rosenzweig-Ron also was great for our purposes. We wanted someone who would be efficient, not too religious and was open to changes to their ceremony. He was all of the above. He was waiting for us at the Boardwalk, knew his way around a Disney wedding and was confident and sure which we needed at that point! I don’t know how he would do with a bride or couple who need/want more hand-holding and involvement from their officiant. We made a lot of changes to the ceremony, including changing his vows and adding a Quaich cup in place of the sand ceremony and he was fine with all of them. We only did it about a month before the actual date, so he fumbled a little bit on them so if pressed to give him a grade it would probably be an A-. But like I said, I didn’t need or want a lot of hand-holding. Another bride who does might give him less.

Dessert Party-
If you are at all debating doing one of these, I say don’t hesitate. AT ALL. This was the icing on the cake for our guests. Everyone of them loved it, and it impressed both of our fathers- which isn’t that easy to do. A week later and people are still talking about it. The desserts we delicious- fyi, mickey ears are the way to go. They aren’t on any of the menus, so you’ll have to ask for them but they are great and everyone loved ‘em. I heard the words “sugar coma” passed around many times that night.

That’s it for now. I’m waiting on the professional pictures before doing more updates. To leave you with something cute, here is a picture of my MOH adorable little one..

http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/DSC09026.jpg

[MsEsty]

Your cake is awesome! I love the topper...I think I will end up requesting it for ours!

The pic of you and the DH is touching :lovestruc

[malibustacey]

So glad you enjoyed the Attic, we wanted something different, a venue that stands out to any wedding venue we had ever been to! I love the view, I think that is what sold it for me, and being able to chill outside... :lovestruc

Was the docking station enough for you? We have the 'ballroom setup' in our proposal, but not too sure what that means or what we have to bring... just our ipod.. or speakers too?! What did you have with the docking station.Could you have the music near the doors to the balcony so you could hear quiet music inside & out?

What are mickey ears on the DP? I havent seen them... they sound yummy!

[Bridie1996]

So glad you enjoyed the Attic, we wanted something different, a venue that stands out to any wedding venue we had ever been to! I love the view, I think that is what sold it for me, and being able to chill outside... :lovestruc

Was the docking station enough for you? We have the 'ballroom setup' in our proposal, but not too sure what that means or what we have to bring... just our ipod.. or speakers too?! What did you have with the docking station.Could you have the music near the doors to the balcony so you could hear quiet music inside & out?

What are mickey ears on the DP? I havent seen them... they sound yummy!

We brought our own docking station, and my cousin set it up prior to the luncheon. He put it in the best possible place, and the music was easily heard while inside the attic. Those outside could hear it softly if they were near the doors, but the further out on the balcony you went, the less you heard it. To the point of not hearing it at all.

I'm not sure what the ballroom set up is, but if you want it heard outside you'd probably be best served by bringing another set of speakers if your'e planning on bringing your own docking station.

The difference in music worked well for us- the family who hadn't seen each other for a while (read: older folks) stayed outside where it was quieter, but the younger ones passed back and forth, socializing, relaxing on the couch to watch the kids color, hanging out by the bar, looking at the pictures we had on the tables as centerpieces. That was another thing we did- I made the coffee tables into a type of "kids corner". They had puzzles, coloring books, crayons in a basket along with their very own table centerpiece of those giant lollipops you can get in the candy store on Main street. They loved it!
Here is a pic of the centerpiece mid-assembly:
http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/19251_269117993570_646933570_328952.jpg

And the family pictures as centerpieces went over really well too. We had a mix of regular picture frames with the cubed multi-picture one and I heard lots of "Oh My God! Where did you find that picture?" etc. In retrospect, I would have had them put the white table clothes on the tables to dress it up a little more, but DH wanted it as natural and relaxed as possble and at the tme it wasn't a big concern of mine.


And Mickey Ears are the bomb. They are mickey-head shaped rice krispie treats, 1/2 dipped in chocolate.
You can see them a bit in this picture:
http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/browniestreats.jpg

[malibustacey]

yeah I think we will ask about the 'ballroom setup' for the ipod... just to make sure! I dont want loud music, just some soft background music. Thanks!

I love those rice crispie treats.... and are those next to it brownies? whatever they are, they look so moist and yummy!

Love the idea of the kids table, I think I just might remember that!

[Bridie1996]

yeah I think we will ask about the 'ballroom setup' for the ipod... just to make sure! I dont want loud music, just some soft background music. Thanks!

I love those rice crispie treats.... and are those next to it brownies? whatever they are, they look so moist and yummy!

Love the idea of the kids table, I think I just might remember that!

Our Dessert party menu was, in order of the raves I heard:
Mickey shaped rice krispy treats
Key Lime Tarts
Brownies
Various cookies
Baklava
Rasberry blondies

The Baklava and blondies were delicious, but they didn't hold a candle to the rice krispie treats or the tarts. I probably could have stopped at the cookies and no one would have noticed. :thumbsup2

[MainStMandy]

Our Dessert party menu was, in order of the raves I heard:
Mickey shaped rice krispy treats
Key Lime Tarts
Brownies
Various cookies
Baklava
Rasberry blondies

The Baklava and blondies were delicious, but they didn't hold a candle to the rice krispie treats or the tarts. I probably could have stopped at the cookies and no one would have noticed. :thumbsup2

OMG the brownies look delicious!! And Stacey...Key Lime Tarts!!!

[malibustacey]

ok ... TEASE!! Now you have to show me the Key Lime Tarts!!

They are my fav and Im having them!! eee!!:goodvibes

[Chilly]

I loved Kathleen as well. And Stan. And Randy.

[Bridie1996]

I loved Kathleen as well. And Stan. And Randy.

They make a great team, those 3! :)

ok ... TEASE!! Now you have to show me the Key Lime Tarts!!

They are my fav and Im having them!! eee!!:goodvibes

I searched and searched but couldn't find a good, clear shot of the tarts. I'm still waiting on 2 more groups of pictures to come in though. In the meantime, this is the best I can do.

I got them b/c I LOVE key Lime pie, and they were delicious. They are just to the left of the mickey crispy treats. As you can see, the person taking the picture decided to go for mood lighting rather than use the flash. :rotfl:

http://i880.photobucket.com/albums/ac9/BGBRSCWedding/Friend_family%20Photos/DSC09122.jpg

[malibustacey]

its my FAV too... I cant wait to taste them! If you are a key lime pie lover like me then I trust if you think they are great- they must really be! thanks for the piccy!

Eeeeeee!! All that table looks delish!

Cant wait to hear and see more of your day!

[pink_tink8i8]

loveeeee your flowers and cake!:goodvibes

[Bridie1996]

We're still waiting on Randy's pics ( should be any day now) but we've recieved the pics from Disney andhave them all uploaded, finally. Since I sang Regina's praises, here is some of her work:

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Regina%20Ceremony/PH174540110-0135.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Regina%20Ceremony/PH174540110-0011.jpg


http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Regina%20Ceremony/PH174540110-0042.jpg

[Bridie1996]

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Regina%20Ceremony/PH174540110-0033-1.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Regina%20Ceremony/PH174540110-0003.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Regina%20Ceremony/PH174540110-0064.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Regina%20Ceremony/PH174540110-0068.jpg

[MainStMandy]

Aww yay!! You looked so beautiful! Those pictures are great!! I'm debating about pearls for the wedding but your pictures really helped...they are beautiful!! And I love your new signature!

[Bridie1996]

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Regina%20Ceremony/PH174540110-0109.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Regina%20Ceremony/PH174540110-0142.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Regina%20Ceremony/PH174540110-0052.jpg

[Bridie1996]

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Magic%20Kingdom%20Portraits/PH174540110-0196-1-1.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Magic%20Kingdom%20Portraits/lessredPH174540110-0176.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Magic%20Kingdom%20Portraits/PH174540110-0189.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Magic%20Kingdom%20Portraits/PH174540110-0211.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Magic%20Kingdom%20Portraits/PH174540110-0219.jpg

[Bridie1996]

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Epcot%20Bridal%20Portraits/editPH174540110-0307.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Epcot%20Bridal%20Portraits/PH174540110-0255.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Epcot%20Bridal%20Portraits/PH174540110-0262.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Epcot%20Bridal%20Portraits/PH174540110-0285-1.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Epcot%20Bridal%20Portraits/PH174540110-0339-1.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Epcot%20Bridal%20Portraits/PH174540110-0341-1.jpg

[tiggerrifficheidi]

Gorgeous!!!

[Bridie1996]

Aww yay!! You looked so beautiful! Those pictures are great!! I'm debating about pearls for the wedding but your pictures really helped...they are beautiful!! And I love your new signature!

Thanks! I'd actually had my eye on different pearl necklace, but those were my Great Grandmothers, who had given them to my Mom. She gave them to me, and I wore them as my "something old". :thumbsup2

[Bridie1996]

I may not give a lot of text, but at least I deliver on the pictures.

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Magic%20Kingdom%20Portraits/sephiaPH174540110-0177.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Epcot%20Bridal%20Portraits/PH174540110-0248-1.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Epcot%20Bridal%20Portraits/PH174540110-0276.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Epcot%20Bridal%20Portraits/PH174540110-0311.jpg

[c1nd3r311a52010]

Everything looked amazing!
Awesome Pictures!:goodvibes

[pink_tink8i8]

your pictures are beautiful!! :goodvibes

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

beautiful!

[Disney845]

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Regina%20Ceremony/PH174540110-0109.jpg



I love the color of this one.

[Disneylover79]

You were a gorgeous bride, you pictures are awesome, you make a beautiful couple...keep the pictures coming, and Congratulations!!!

[TnTWalter]

yours are so much better than others I've seen....amazing. Did you request a certain photographer?

:thumbsup2

[Chilly]

Love that you had you hair up and then down for the park shoots. Beautiful photos.

[Sarah <3 Disney]

Your pictures are beautiful! :goodvibes Honestly, it really looks like Disney Photographers are stepping up their game as of late, a lot of people have been getting some amazing shots! I love the one of you two on the lawn in front of the castle. :lovestruc

[bunny_pop]

Oh just simply lovely! You're picture are amazing and really showcase some of the best pictures I've seen from DPS.

[Bridie1996]

Gorgeous!!!

Thanks! I had some great inspiration. :)

Everything looked amazing!
Awesome Pictures!:goodvibes
Thanks!

your pictures are beautiful!! :goodvibes

Glad you like them, it was difficult choosing which ones to post.

beautiful!
Thanks!

I love the color of this one.
Yeah, that is a favorite. My co-worker loves it and thinks it looks like a postcard.

You were a gorgeous bride, you pictures are awesome, you make a beautiful couple...keep the pictures coming, and Congratulations!!!
Thanks! I'm anxious to see Randy's pictures since they will have more of our families in them! I've started working on a blurb book and am getting mighty tired of looking at myself and DH 97% of the time. Makes me feel narcissistic.

yours are so much better than others I've seen....amazing. Did you request a certain photographer?

:thumbsup2
this was the MK/Epcot package. We had requested Regina as our photographer for the escape package at first, but when we decided to go with Randy for the ceremony, our planner told us that they can't gaurantee who our photographer will be when we don't use DPS as primary. We decided to take the chance, and our request for Regina still showed up on order of events. And I was thrilled when I saw her at the Boardwalk when we arrived, and even more thrilled when she said that she'd be our photographer for the bridal portraits also. I can't recommend her enough. She mentioned she has her own photography business on the side as well, and if I knew the name of it I'd be recommending her on the Knot boards too!

Love that you had you hair up and then down for the park shoots. Beautiful photos.
That was a decision long in the making! I wanted my hair up for the ceremony because it can be so out of control sometimes, and I just think veils etc. look better with hair that is up. But I wanted the portraits to be romantic in a more relaxed, glamorous way and I've always loved that Veronica Lake hairstyle. I've dressed up as Jessica Rabbit for Halloween more than once. :lmao:

Your pictures are beautiful! :goodvibes Honestly, it really looks like Disney Photographers are stepping up their game as of late, a lot of people have been getting some amazing shots! I love the one of you two on the lawn in front of the castle. :lovestruc
I call that one our prom shot. :rotfl: I love the colors of the sky over the castle. We were having a hard time getting a nice wide shot of the castle because they were replacing the flowers in the beds in front of it since most had died during the cold weather they'd had the week before. DH went wandering off to the lawn ( he was fascinated with the moat, which had been emptied for cleaning) while Regina and I were discussing and we followed and she decided she liked the angle, and there you have it..

Oh just simply lovely! You're picture are amazing and really showcase some of the best pictures I've seen from DPS.
Thanks... like I said, I'd recommend Regina to all of the disbrides!
I posted one in a Disney flickr group contest about "why I go to the parks" and it won second place. :thumbsup2

And for those brides who might be worried if there is restoration work being done on the castle etc. the castle pictures were taken with a crane in the background ( they were just finishing up taking down the lights) and some major restoration work was being done on it. All of which was photo shopped out.

[Bridie1996]

The Castle pictures we were able to get..

Regina had to fight for us to get this one. It was the very last picture we took before leaving the park, and we were being told we had to vacate because guests were coming in for the 1st breakfast reservations etc. We hadn't been able to get it earlier due to the gardeners and their trucks being parked around the circle. Regina handled the situation and herself very professionally and DH were thrilled to get the picture and that she'd go to bat for us. She said that as far as she was concerned, we'd spent enough money on the wedding that we "deserved the iconic picture".
http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Magic%20Kingdom%20Portraits/PH174540110-0175.jpg

The following are unedited ones:

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Magic%20Kingdom%20Portraits/noblotchPH174540110-0208.jpg

If you look closely at this one, you can see the black smudge on my dress that I had gotten when standing up too close to the wall in UK lochside during the DP the night before. Easily Photoshopped out, and I'm waiting to see if the cleaners can get it out. :scared1:
http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Magic%20Kingdom%20Portraits/PH174540110-0192.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/Magic%20Kingdom%20Portraits/PH174540110-0209-1.jpg

[pink_tink8i8]

Oh I'm so glad you got the MK pics you wanted :goodvibes

[Pirate's Princess]

Beautiful shots!! You are making me feel so better that I have to use DPS! There really are some talented photographers there! Glad you were able to get the photos! I would be devasted if i paid for an MK and didn't get castle shots!!

[NEVERENOUGHWDW]

Just read all your report...Just beautiful!

[MsEsty]

I wish there were words to express how beautiful your MK pictures are...but just wow

[BecBennett]

Lovely :lovestruc

You got some great photos! So did you get Patricia Legune to do your hair and makeup for both days?

[Princess Cinders]

Beautiful Photos, you look absolutely stunning

[Bridie1996]

Lovely :lovestruc

You got some great photos! So did you get Patricia Legune to do your hair and makeup for both days?

BecBennett-
Nope, I used Patricia for the day of the wedding, but she wasn't available for the portrait session the next day, so I used Beauty Especial. I can't remember the name of the woman who they sent, but I've seen her in a few pictures other brides have put up.

Everyone was friendly, showed up on time and were very professional. I'm more of a natural - look girl and I think my make-up looks a little dark in some of the portrait pictures- despite everyone else saying it looks great!:lmao: If I had been more awake I would have thought to tell her not to go too heavy, but I was 1/2 asleep.

[MiaBella05]

your pictures are amazing!! what a great keepsake!! :love:

[DVC Bride 2011]

Your MK shots are incredible!

[Disney9.9.10]

Your pictures are so beautiful!! You guys look so happy and glowing!!

[tinkerbell 766]

Bridget, I love your bouquet!!!
Can I ask was it a standard Escape bouquet or did you upgrade and if so how much?
Thank you so much!!!

[Bridie1996]

Bridget, I love your bouquet!!!
Can I ask was it a standard Escape bouquet or did you upgrade and if so how much?
Thank you so much!!!

Thanks! I was very nervous about it when I talked to Rosie, since I couldn't find anything like it on line.

We started with the Tropical Escape bouquet.. it has cala lillies, roses and two types of orchids with the bear grass and leaves.

We:
1)kept the small green orchids as is.
2) changed the lillies to dark pink
3)the roses to bright pink and
4) took out the large orchids, and the bear grass.
5)We then put in (what was supposed to be fucia) Anemones.
6)Then Rosie suggested blue delphiniums since the MOH's dress was blue.

I thought we'd taken out the leafie things too, but after looking at the estimate I got, I realized we didn't. Also, the Anemones turned out more purple than what I was picturing.

BTW- I wasn't charged extra for any of it! Based on my experience and reading other escape brides journals, they rarely charge extra to change flowers. The extra cost comes in if you want something substantially larger or flowers that are difficult to get. I asked for Cherry blossoms as part of the decor at SBP, and the quote I was given was outrageous for the number of blossoms they were giving me! But then, I was asking for Cherry Blossoms in January.:rotfl:

HTH!

[tinkerbell 766]

Thank you so much for the help

[Bridie1996]

We had our at-home wedding celebration this weekend. We kept it very casual, in a local park with a local BBQ place catering it. I was going to wear my dress for awhile before changing into a white sundress, but twisted my ankle 15 min. before the party started so I ended up partying in the capris and ratty old t-shirt I’d been wearing to set up the party. Everyone had a good time anyway, and I thought I’d share some pictures with you.

BTW- about the pictures
We found a local couple who are establishing themselves and trying to enlarge their portfolio. They don’t charge for their services and instead work just for tips!

The centerpieces for the tables- Pellegrino water bottles with personalized labels. I asked a designer on the design boards to do a monogram for us and used that.
http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/BBQ/IMG_4998CR22.jpg

Our cake: which I thought was was really cool. WAL-E is my DH’s favorite so I wanted to surprise him. He thought we were getting a simple, classic wedding style cake.
But I asked the baker to us Wal-E and Eva as the cake toppers and to make it look like Wal-E had climbed the cake to get to her. Then to have MO somewhere on the cake cleaning it up behind him. This is what she came up with:
http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/BBQ/IMG_5104CR22.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/BBQ/IMG_5122CR21.jpg

(that’s our blurb book in the background)

And some other random pictures!

The Raspberry shortbread Minnie and chocolate Mickey cookies made by DMIL were a huge hit!
http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/BBQ/IMG_24871.jpg


Checking out her Mickey cookie…
http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/BBQ/IMG_5098CR21.jpg

And after the cookie…
http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/BBQ/IMG_49971.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/BBQ/IMG_5115CR22.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/BBQ/IMG_50102.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/BBQ/IMG_5039CR22.jpg

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae262/bgbrscwedding1/BBQ/IMG_5061CR21.jpg

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

Great pictures!!!
That cake is adorable!

[Tinker Bell Fan]

I am simply in awe!! I loved your dress and flowers and colors! I love the blue shoes too.

Best wishes for a wonderful marriage!

Thank you for sharing your story and photos. Oh and the "blurb" book - did you have that made?

Oh and the Wall-E/Eva cake is just too cute!

[tiggerrifficheidi]

The WALL-E and EVA cake is genius! Such a good idea!

[Boardwalk_bride]

I really love your centerpieces! The cake and cookies are so cute too :goodvibes

[Bridie1996]

Great pictures!!!
That cake is adorable!

Thanks!

I am simply in awe!! I loved your dress and flowers and colors! I love the blue shoes too.

Best wishes for a wonderful marriage!

Thank you for sharing your story and photos. Oh and the "blurb" book - did you have that made?

Oh and the Wall-E/Eva cake is just too cute!

I made the blurb book myself. It isn't hart, just time consuming. I made one for each set of parents as well! Go to www.blurb.com for more info! And here is a link to the book in the picture, so you can see it.
http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/1356677

The WALL-E and EVA cake is genius! Such a good idea!
Thanks! He loved it and I think it came out well!

I really love your centerpieces! The cake and cookies are so cute too :goodvibes
Thanks. :thumbsup2 I wanted to keep it simple but pretty and the daisies worked well with feel I was going for.

[evey82]

Hi i just found your journal and read it all. Your wedding looked amazing and i loved your pics, especially your MK portrait as they are stunning pics!