Joanne and Paul's VR - 4th May 2011 - Wedding blog award nomination!!!!

[tinkerbell 766]

Okay I have been a lurker/poster on these boards for some time now, but today I finally had my deposit processed, my ceremony confirmed and we are official, so I guess it's time to start a PJ!!!

About us
I am Joanne, aged 47, a paramedic and Disney fanatic
My husband is Paul aged 41, a postman (mailman). He is a golf freak and plays whenever he can!!
Our children are:-
Mark 24 (see below).
Emily 22 just graduated from Surrey university with a Bsc in business management. Emily is a part-time cast member at her local Disney Store and completed the International student programme in WDW two summers ago.
Henry 20 in his final year at Aberystwyth university studying drama (sees himself as the next Johnny Depp!!)
Alfie 10 still in primary school and an absolute gaming fanatic!!

Our History
About 12 years ago, I walked out on an abusive, adulterous husband with three children and the clothes we stood up in. My children (Mark who was 12 and severely disabled, Emily who was 10 and Henry who was 8) and I went to live with my parents for a while, before finding a house to rent near my parents in the beautiful English Lake District.
We settled in to our new life, but after a while Mark's disabilities became too much for me to handle alone. He has Down's Syndrome and severe autism. After much fighting with different authorities, I managed to find him a wonderful house very nearby where he is one of five residents and has one-to-one care 24 hours a day. Mark settled easily and to this day I know I made the right decision for him to move into his new home. However, at the time, the guilt associated with this decision was overwhelming. As a side note, I would like to add that Mark remains in his house today and we see him most days. He is happy and secure. Unfortuately, both health and practicalities will prevent him from joining us in Florida for the VR. He will, of course be with us in our hearts as he always is.
This story is really just to illustrate what a low point I was at when I met my wonderful husband Paul.
One evening, when I was feeling particularly down, my brother persuaded me to go and watch him play cricket (a strange English game). I decided to go, if only to give Emily and Henry the chance to run around in the late summer sunshine.
At the end of the match, I was helping my brother pack up the cricket equipment, when a tall man came across to help. My brother said 'Oh Joanne, this is Paul' and I looked up into the most amazing blue eyes and immediately felt my heart jump!!! We chatted for a while and got on so well!! Needless to say, I was very keen to go and watch my brother's cricket matches from then on!!
To cut a long story short, after a few times socializing at the cricket matches, Paul asked me to the cinema and we have been inseperable ever since!!
Paul helped me to come to terms with all the things in my past and became a father to my three children.
Soon we moved in together and the day I discovered I was pregnant with our son Alfie (now 10), Paul proposed. We married when Alfie was 5 months old and we celebrated our 10th anniversary in April.
Although we had a lovely wedding, it was done quickly and cheaply (church hall reception, hired dress etc) and I always dreamed we would one day have a dream vow renewal.
We have just come through a tough time both emotionally and health wise and since we now feel our marriage is stronger than ever, it seems the perfect time to put our dream VR plans into action!!!
Ideally it would have been wonderful to have done our VR on our 10th anniversary last April, but with two children at university (my daughter just graduated last week :dance3:), the time just wasn't right.
So now it is booked for next May.
When planning our VR, it was always going to be in WDW!! I am a lifelong Disney fanatic and my one luxury in life is my DVC membership (AKV and BLT). The children have been brought up to be Disney fanatics too. Paul (bless him) enjoys the parks, but struggles to understand the passion the children and I share!!
I hope that some of you will follow along with my PJ and not becoome too bored with the whole thing. It will be lovely to chat along with new Disfriends!!

[padisneyfour]

welcome and congrats! have fun planning -looking forward to hearing more of your plans. we just did a VR at WDW last wednesday- it was wonderful! enjoy!:goodvibes

[tinkerbell 766]

Well, even though not many people seem to be interested in reading (not that I blame anyone - I guess it is pretty boring to other people), I am going to stubbonly carry on!!!

Our plans

Our vow renewal ceremony is arranged for 4th May 2011 and is taking place in the West Courtyard of the Swan Hotel in front of the beautiful fountain

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/BLU000.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/image009-1.jpg

There will be us and 13 other guests (eek unlucky 13!!). They will be my daughter and her partner (who is Scottish and will be wearing his kilt!!), my two sons, my Mum, Paul's Mum and her partner, my friend and her daughter and our other friends and their son and grand-daughter.
After the ceremony and cake/champagne reception we are all heading to the GF for a cocktail hour at Mizner's Lounge and dinner at Citricos. I am hoping to add a DP at Sago Cay later too but it depends on how the budget goes!!
We are also planning a 'get together dinner (venue TBD) the day after our arrival in WDW, a ladies teaparty at Garden View TeaRoom and gents Grub'n'Golf on the day before the VR and a brunch the morning after at Cape May Cafe. More details of all these events to come later.

[tinkerbell 766]

welcome and congrats! have fun planning -looking forward to hearing more of your plans. we just did a VR at WDW last wednesday- it was wonderful! enjoy!:goodvibes

Thanks for reading Tammy!!
I have followed your plans with interest and I am eagarly looking forward to seeing Randy's pictures of your big day!!
From what you have posted so far, I can see you looked absolutely beautiful and seem to have had a magical day. Congratulations!!

[Disney9.9.10]

I am glad to see that you started a pj! I think it will be great to have a Swan VR to read about on here!

[minniebride]

:banana:I'm so glad you started your PJ!!!!! Can't wait to read more!!:goodvibes

[tinkerbell 766]

I am glad to see that you started a pj! I think it will be great to have a Swan VR to read about on here!

:banana:I'm so glad you started your PJ!!!!! Can't wait to read more!!:goodvibes

Thanks for following along girls!!!

[tinkerbell 766]

So we fly out to Orlando on Sunday 1st May. Some of us will be going from the north of England from Manchester airport and some from the south from Gatwick airport. My daughter and her partner are flying out on the previous Friday and are having a couple of days on their own before we arrive.
We land at approx 15.10 Orlando time and the Gatwick party land a couple of hours later at about 17.15.
I have banked and borrowed my DVC points and have managed to pay for everybody's first 5 nights accommodation with my accumulated points. Most of us are staying at BLT but the Gatwick party (three friends and their three children) are staying in two studios in Kidani Village as they felt the children would prefer it.
Magical Express is arranged for transfers to WDW and as we land first, we are going to go ahead and get checked in at BLT and the Gatwick party will follow later. Nobody could see the point in our party hanging around the airport for two hours waiting for them.
I intend to get the BLT lot checked in and settled, and then my daughter and I will get the bus over from MK to Kidani to meet the other party when they arrive and help them check in.
I am fortunate that I only have five family groups attending, so I am splashing out a bit on welcome bags. I have had them printed with our logo which will appear on all our stationary, invites etc. I intend to hand the bags out myself, first to the BLT group and then to the Kidani group when I go across to meet them and help them check in.
Here is a picture of our welcome bags (they have the log printed on both sides and the little circle in the middle of Mickey and Minnie is a round sparkly crystal)

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/welcomebagwithsparkle.gif

Here is an example of the hanging tags which will be attached to each bag

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/welcometagagain.jpg

I designed the logo to reflect the fact that our VR is at Disney and also at the Swan. Our theme is sort of Mickey meets Swan!!!!

Here is a better picture of our logo

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/bigbag.gif

Next post, I will bore you all with the contents of the welcome bags!!! I can hear you all yawning already!!:rolleyes2

[tinkerbell 766]

Hello.... Hello... is anybody out there?
Oh well I'll plod on undaunted.

Welcome bag contents
Inside the welcome bags will be the following:-
One of these envelopes containing a welcome letter, park maps and an information booklet. I have bought brag-book style photo albums and intend inserting pages of (hopefully) useful information and tips. I stole this idea from another Disbride - acwinsett- thanks Andrea!!
There is one envelope for the guests staying at BLT and one for the guests staying at Kidani. Here they are

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/BLTsomadmad.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/kidaniwelcomeagain.jpg

Also inside the welcome bags will be:-
A Bare Necessities kit containing plasters, indigestion relief tablets, paracetamol (I think it is called Tylenol in the USA), Ibuprofen, antiseptic wipes and (for those with children) paediatric pain relief sachets.

A pampering kit containing bubble bath/shower gel, a bath puff, shampoo, conditioner, a fragranced candle and lip balm (all in the same fragrance)

A hand care kit containing lavender soap, a nail brush and hand cream and manicure set

A clothes care kit containing stain removal wipes, a sewing kit and a shoe shine pad

A foot care kit containing blister plasters, a soothing foot cream and foot soak

Tissues

A notebook and pen

Ponchos (adult and child's sizes)

Breath mints

Insect repellant and sting relief

I am undecided whether to add a snack pack or not. I won't have time to shop for snacks in Orlando before handing out the welcome bags and I don't really like the idea of transporting foodstuffs all the way on the plane from England!! What do you guys think?

I would also like to add a lanyard for everyone to store their passes, fastpasses etc and also a water misting fan, but since I would need 13 of each of these, I need to find some inexpensive ones!!! I'm a cheapskate I know!!!

If anybody can think of anything I could add to the bags that I haven't thought of, I would be grateful to hear ideas!!

I have decided to make more work for myself by making labels for all the stuff to go in the welcome bags so that it all co-ordinates. Some of the labels will go on original packaging and some items, I will repackage in plastic bottles etc.
Here are some of the labels I have designed already. I have tried to incorporate as many of my beloved Disney films into this project as I can, but some films have had to appear twice. Again, if anybody has any ideas for appropriate pictures from films for any items, I would be grateful!!! I still have some to do and still have some stuff to buy!!

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/welcomebagcontents4.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/welcomebagcontents3.jpg

For the children, I have bought small backpacks (princesses and Toy Story 3) and will put in them an autograph book (which if I have time I will make myself), a fat pen for autograph signing, a pencil case containing the usual pens, pencils, erasers etc., a Disney activity and colouring book, hand-held fans (again either princesses or TS3), stickers, a Disney beenie and anything else I can find between now and the VR (which is cheap :goodvibes). Again any ideas gratefully received!!

[Disney9.9.10]

I absolutely love your logo! It is so beautiful and I love how you have incorporated the Mice and the Swan! Your welcome bags are going to be fantastic! The labels are a really cute idea, I love them!

[padisneyfour]

I love everything! How wonderful for your guests!:goodvibes

[Sccrmnky2005]

WOW!! I love everything so far! The logo is perfect!! and all the tags for different things are great!!

How did you do the bag tag? I have a logo already but I would like to have a template for the bag tag and a hole punch like yours. I would like to print out more than one per page, please let me know how this was done!!! Can't wait to read more plans!! :banana:

[tinkerbell 766]

I absolutely love your logo! It is so beautiful and I love how you have incorporated the Mice and the Swan! Your welcome bags are going to be fantastic! The labels are a really cute idea, I love them!

I love everything! How wonderful for your guests!:goodvibes

WOW!! I love everything so far! The logo is perfect!! and all the tags for different things are great!!

How did you do the bag tag? I have a logo already but I would like to have a template for the bag tag and a hole punch like yours. I would like to print out more than one per page, please let me know how this was done!!! Can't wait to read more plans!! :banana:

Thanks girls!!!
I am so relieved that some people are following along!!
Amanda, I just used powerpoint to create the tags. I will print them out (two for each bag), cut them out, stick the two back to back (so that they are the same both sides) and laminate them. When I print them, I will probably print them without the holes and just make the holes with a hole punch. Otherwise, it is difficult to punch the hole exactly where you have created the lines.
I can easily create a template for you if you wish if you are able to add the names, or if you want, I can create all your tags for you so all you need do is print them out and stick them together. For this I would obviously need you to post your logo and if you want me to totally do all your tags for you, you would need to PM me a list of names for the tags.
I would be honoured to help. Just let me know

[minniebride]

Just catching up on your latest update....

I love the design for your welcome bags!! :goodvibes and all of those little logos for the welcome bag contents are adorable!!

[tinkerbell 766]

Thank you so much!!

[erin.w]

Adorable welcome bags - and tags! Can't wait to read more!

[pixiegirl]

WOW!! I love your welcome bags with all of the labels!! Did you just use powerpoint to make them? I need to make tags for my bags as well. I also love your logo it is absolutely adorable!!! I can't wait to read more!!!

[angel81uk]

I love your welcome bags, the logo is so cute! Can I ask where you're getting the bags themselves printed?

[minniebride]

Hi Joan!

I just saw your post in the other thread and I thought it might be easier (& more organized for you!!) to post the info here :)

For non-DFTW Dessert Parties, call this number:
321-939-7278

It's the phone number for Disney Catered Events and they handle the DP's for brides like us!!

Hope this helps!!! :goodvibes

[BecBennett]

Hi Joan!

I just saw your post in the other thread and I thought it might be easier (& more organized for you!!) to post the info here :)

For non-DFTW Dessert Parties, call this number:
321-939-7278

It's the phone number for Disney Catered Events and they handle the DP's for brides like us!!

Hope this helps!!! :goodvibes

I came to get this information too :goodvibes I could have sworn I read a couple of months back that they no longer arrange private dessert parties unless it's for weddings. So this is great!


Joanne, I love your bag! It's so cute!

[pixie921]

How did I miss your original posts? I love what you have planned and made so far! You're a do-it-yourself girl after my own heart! :thumbsup2

I've eaten at the Swan, but never realized they had such a pretty spot for weddings/vow renewals. It looks lovely!

And I love-love-love your logo!!! I'm using the castle and flourishes for my invitations, but they're not nearly as nice as yours. Well done!

I'll definitely be reading along, as we are planning our vow renewal for next year, too. :goodvibes

[tinkerbell 766]

Adorable welcome bags - and tags! Can't wait to read more!

WOW!! I love your welcome bags with all of the labels!! Did you just use powerpoint to make them? I need to make tags for my bags as well. I also love your logo it is absolutely adorable!!! I can't wait to read more!!!

I love your welcome bags, the logo is so cute! Can I ask where you're getting the bags themselves printed?

Hi Joan!

I just saw your post in the other thread and I thought it might be easier (& more organized for you!!) to post the info here :)

For non-DFTW Dessert Parties, call this number:
321-939-7278

It's the phone number for Disney Catered Events and they handle the DP's for brides like us!!

Hope this helps!!! :goodvibes

I came to get this information too :goodvibes I could have sworn I read a couple of months back that they no longer arrange private dessert parties unless it's for weddings. So this is great!


Joanne, I love your bag! It's so cute!

How did I miss your original posts? I love what you have planned and made so far! You're a do-it-yourself girl after my own heart! :thumbsup2

I've eaten at the Swan, but never realized they had such a pretty spot for weddings/vow renewals. It looks lovely!

And I love-love-love your logo!!! I'm using the castle and flourishes for my invitations, but they're not nearly as nice as yours. Well done!

I'll definitely be reading along, as we are planning our vow renewal for next year, too. :goodvibes

Thanks girls!!

Erin - Thank you so much!! I am glad you will be reading along!!

pixiegirl - Thank you. Yes, I do all my DISigning on powerpoint. I also use a programme which is on my computer called VCW VicMan's photo editor. I think it must be a free programme as I have never bought it, so I must have downloaded it from somewhere years ago, but I only use this for removing backgrounds from pictures/clipart and converting them to GIF. I occasionally use paint too but very rarely. All the actual DISigns are created on powerpoint and I have never felt the need (or had the spare money) to invest in a programme like photoshop. I know a lot of the DISigners over on the 'Creative DISigns' board use photoshop and their work is far superior to mine, so maybe one day!!!!

angel81uk - I had the bags printed by Vistaprint. HTH Thanks for your lovely comments!!

minniebride - Thank you so much!!! I am still not sure whether the budget will stretch to a DP. I am hoping it will!!! I just needed to have a number to call in case I am given the go ahead to plan a DP at Sago Cay. I will be following your plans closely to see how they are going as we seem pretty similar with what we are doing!! Thanks again!!

BecBeccett - I hope that it is not true that Disney will not arrange a DP for anybody but DFTW brides anymore!!! I think they will lose a lot of business and have a lot of disappointed guests!!! Thank you so much. I am glad you like the bag!!!

pixie921 - I am glad you like my humble D-I-Y projects!!! I am sure your logo is wonderful!!! Do you have a PJ so that I can follow your plans along. I agree that the Swan is very pretty. I am very excited we are having our VR there. Thanks again for following along!!!

[tinkerbell 766]

We interupt your regularly scheduled PJ to post a couple of pictures I meant to post earlier on but forgot :rolleyes:
First is a picture of our original wedding in 2000

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/scan0002.jpg

The second is the luggage labels which will be posted to all my guests just before we leave. I asked all my guests who their favourite character was amd made each with their favourite. I don't want to bore you with all of them, so I have posted two examples. I have also posted an example of the back of the tag. I have bought faux leather luggage tags to put them in and figured that if I did the front inserts and back inserts seperately, they could use the front for future journeys and just change the information on the back. I have also done a back insert for the return journey but won't bore you with it as it is the same except in place of the VR logo is the phrase ' But I don't want to go home!!' and it obviously has the return flight details on it!!

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/luggagetagsagain.jpg

[jtanddolly]

I love the logo you designed! Beautiful job!

[pixie921]

pixie921 - I am glad you like my humble D-I-Y projects!!! I am sure your logo is wonderful!!! Do you have a PJ so that I can follow your plans along. I agree that the Swan is very pretty. I am very excited we are having our VR there. Thanks again for following along!!!

No PJ yet ... we're still over a year away, so I figured I'd start one sometime after the new year. ;)

[DisneyDiva84]

Those bags are adorable! Everything looks great so far can't wait to read more :)

[minniebride]

I love your original wedding photo-very "Cinderella" with the castle-looking door behind you! ;)

[tinkerbell 766]

I love the logo you designed! Beautiful job!

No PJ yet ... we're still over a year away, so I figured I'd start one sometime after the new year. ;)

Those bags are adorable! Everything looks great so far can't wait to read more :)

I love your original wedding photo-very "Cinderella" with the castle-looking door behind you! ;)

Dolly - Thank you!!! This is praise indeed coming from such a talented DISigner!!!

pixie921 - Looking forward to reading all about it when you start your PJ!!

DisneyDiva84 - Thank you so much!! I am flattered you want to keep reading along!!

minniebride - Thank you - It was a lovely day but it was rushed through a bit and not quite what I dreamed of (hired dress, village hall reception etc). My VR will be my opportunity to be a princess (probably the final chance I will get as I am getting old now!!!)

[Jitzy]

I think your picture is lovely! Love the glimpse of the architecture!

Excuse my American self, but I noticed where you are from...Is that The Lake District, ie, Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy? I know I am such a dork...!

Also, I saw that you asked for suggestions for gift bags. Have you thought about detergent for the clothes? I just got back from a trip and used the Purex sheets that have the detergent and fabric softener in one. (you could buy a box and then split them up into decorative envelopes ~ you are so creative it should be a breeze!) There are also just the little boxes of detergent. It was nice to not have a ton of dirty clothes when we got home. (also, even though we pack a collapsible clothes hamper, it's just nice not to have dirty clothes lying about.) Anyway, your guests can purchase those in the laundry room, but it might be nice to have a small box handy. My sister and I were at BWV this spring and the vending machine was out of the individual boxes late one night. This poor lady had to wait forever to have someone refund her money and bring some detergent. We had none to give her, either.

[tinkerbell 766]

Just remembered I forgot to post these too!!!
These are an example of the tags to go on the kid's welcome bags, which are Toy Story and Princess backpacks.

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/kidstagsohgod.jpg

[tinkerbell 766]

I think your picture is lovely! Love the glimpse of the architecture!

Excuse my American self, but I noticed where you are from...Is that The Lake District, ie, Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy? I know I am such a dork...!

Also, I saw that you asked for suggestions for gift bags. Have you thought about detergent for the clothes? I just got back from a trip and used the Purex sheets that have the detergent and fabric softener in one. (you could buy a box and then split them up into decorative envelopes ~ you are so creative it should be a breeze!) There are also just the little boxes of detergent. It was nice to not have a ton of dirty clothes when we got home. (also, even though we pack a collapsible clothes hamper, it's just nice not to have dirty clothes lying about.) Anyway, your guests can purchase those in the laundry room, but it might be nice to have a small box handy. My sister and I were at BWV this spring and the vending machine was out of the individual boxes late one night. This poor lady had to wait forever to have someone refund her money and bring some detergent. We had none to give her, either.

I think Elizabeth Bennett and Mr Darcy (swoon!!) were in the Peak District which is in Derbyshire. You are not a dork at all. I am sure you know more about English literature than I do about American literature!!!
Thank you for the suggestions!!! I think they are brilliant!! I will add these things onto my 'to buy' list. Unfortuately I don't think we have sheets with detergent and conditioner in one over here in the UK, but we do have tablets so that's an idea.
Thanks again and thank you for reading along

[pixiegirl]

minniebride - Thank you - It was a lovely day but it was rushed through a bit and not quite what I dreamed of (hired dress, village hall reception etc). My VR will be my opportunity to be a princess (probably the final chance I will get as I am getting old now!!!)

You are never to old to be a princess!! I love the picture from your original wedding!!

[tinkerbell 766]

Thank you!!
Us older girls are princesses too, right?

[Jules~Marie]

Just joining in! I just have to say, your logo is amazing!!!! :worship: and I love your welcome bags and the labels you made for everything. I definitely will be following along. popcorn::

[ZetaCPA]

I AM IN LOVE with all the do-it yourself projects! I may have to hire you...considering our vow renewal won't be until 2013, you'll have plenty of time to help me! Keep up the great work, I'm sure all of your guests will appreciate and remember your event!

[tinkerbell 766]

Just joining in! I just have to say, your logo is amazing!!!! :worship: and I love your welcome bags and the labels you made for everything. I definitely will be following along. popcorn::

I AM IN LOVE with all the do-it yourself projects! I may have to hire you...considering our vow renewal won't be until 2013, you'll have plenty of time to help me! Keep up the great work, I'm sure all of your guests will appreciate and remember your event!

Jules~Marie - thank you for your kind words. I am glad you will follow along. It's great when you meet so many nice people on these boards!!

ZetaCPA - I would be more than happy to help out. I used to DISign on the 'Creative DISigns' board but since I started planning my VR I have had to 'semi-retire' from DISigning for a while. I will be going back to it after my VR and will be honoured to help you out on your VR!!! Just let me know.

[jtanddolly]

So we fly out to Orlando on Sunday 1st May. Some of us will be going from the north of England from Manchester airport and some from the south from Gatwick airport. My daughter and her partner are flying out on the previous Friday and are having a couple of days on their own before we arrive.
We land at approx 15.10 Orlando time and the Gatwick party land a couple of hours later at about 17.15.
I have banked and borrowed my DVC points and have managed to pay for everybody's first 5 nights accommodation with my accumulated points. Most of us are staying at BLT but the Gatwick party (three friends and their three children) are staying in two studios in Kidani Village as they felt the children would prefer it.
Magical Express is arranged for transfers to WDW and as we land first, we are going to go ahead and get checked in at BLT and the Gatwick party will follow later. Nobody could see the point in our party hanging around the airport for two hours waiting for them.
I intend to get the BLT lot checked in and settled, and then my daughter and I will get the bus over from MK to Kidani to meet the other party when they arrive and help them check in.
I am fortunate that I only have five family groups attending, so I am splashing out a bit on welcome bags. I have had them printed with our logo which will appear on all our stationary, invites etc. I intend to hand the bags out myself, first to the BLT group and then to the Kidani group when I go across to meet them and help them check in.
Here is a picture of our welcome bags (they have the log printed on both sides and the little circle in the middle of Mickey and Minnie is a round sparkly crystal)

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/welcomebagwithsparkle.gif

Here is an example of the hanging tags which will be attached to each bag

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/welcomebagtag2.gif

I designed the logo to reflect the fact that our VR at Disney and also at the Swan. Our theme is sort of Mickey meets Swan!!!!

Here is a better picture of our logo

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/bigbag.gif

Next post, I will bore you all with the contents of the welcome bags!!! I can hear you all yawning already!!:rolleyes2

Thanks for the nice compliment on Amanda's PJ. I have to admit...I love this monogram that you made and it inspired me! I love helping others design things and maybe with the wedding and party things...that are non disney...I can some day turn it into a business.

[Chilly]

Everything looks amazing Joanne, your logo is fab!

[tinkerbell 766]

Thanks for the nice compliment on Amanda's PJ. I have to admit...I love this monogram that you made and it inspired me! I love helping others design things and maybe with the wedding and party things...that are non disney...I can some day turn it into a business.

Everything looks amazing Joanne, your logo is fab!

Dolly - Wow I am so flattered that my work has inspired you!!! I am sure you could make a sucessful business out of designing wedding and party items. You certainly have the talent to make a go of it!!! Thanks again and I hope you will continue to follow my plans along.

Claire - Thanks so much. If my day is even half as beauitiful as yours was, I will be delighted. Hope you will continue to follow along!!

[tinkerbell 766]

Okay I need some honest opinions from you girls - I know I can trust you!!
I have been tweeking my welcome bag and luggage tags a bit and want to know what you think. Do you prefer them as they were originally posted or with the addition of the damask surround (below)?

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/Damasktags.jpg

[tinkerbell 766]

So the first day we are in WDW we will have a relaxing day and try to recover from the 9 hour flight!!
I think we may have a day at one of the water parks (probably Blizzard Beach)
In the evening, we are planning a 'get together' dinner. This is where I need your help!!
I orginally thought of Raglan Road for our dinner but I am not sure how 'noisy and busy' it will be. I have three over 70s in my party and think they would prefer somewhere quietish. Has anybody any ideas where we could eat? Unfortuately, the place we eat must fit the following criteria:-
It must be quietish
It must be waiter service - no buffet (DMIL - 'When I go on holiday, I expect to be waited upon and not have to serve myself' :rolleyes:)
It must not be in any of the parks as some of my guests will not be getting their their park passes until after the VR on the Wednesday (long story)

If anybody has any ideas which fit these criteria and is really nice, I would be so grateful!!!

[pixiegirl]

I like the damask around the tags. But then I am a big fan of damask so I may be biased. I do think that either way is really nice.

[Jitzy]

Okay I need some honest opinions from you girls - I know I can trust you!!
I have been tweeking my welcome bag and luggage tags a bit and want to know what you think. Do you prefer them as they were originally posted or with the addition of the damask surround (below)?

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/Damasktags.jpg

I like the first one more than the second one. The border around the first image adds to it, I think. In the second image, I think maybe Donald gets lost in all the scrollwork.

All of the ideas are amazing. You are so organized and creative! Love reading all of your plans!

[Chilly]

I don't think you should add the border, I think it distracts you from the image.

I'll have a think about a restaurant.

[tinkerbell 766]

I like the damask around the tags. But then I am a big fan of damask so I may be biased. I do think that either way is really nice.

I like the first one more than the second one. The border around the first image adds to it, I think. In the second image, I think maybe Donald gets lost in all the scrollwork.

All of the ideas are amazing. You are so organized and creative! Love reading all of your plans!

I don't think you should add the border, I think it distracts you from the image.

I'll have a think about a restaurant.

Thanks girls!!! Your opinions are much appreciated.
Claire - I would be so grateful if you have any ideas about which restaurant we should eat in that first night.

[Chilly]

Claire - I would be so grateful if you have any ideas about which restaurant we should eat in that first night.

How fancy a restaurant do you want? If you want somewhere relaxed my first thought is the Grand Floridian Cafe, I've not been so can't comment on the food, but I would think the over 70's would enjoy the hotel, and you can have a drink in Mizners lounge as well and listen to the musicians.

[tinkerbell 766]

Thanks Claire
I must admit that The Grand Floridian Cafe had crossed my mind too. My VR reception, however, is at Citricos with a cocktail hour beforehand at Mizner's and I kind of feel it might lessen the impact of this if we have been there previously. Am I being silly?
Any other ideas?

[Chilly]

Thanks Claire
I must admit that The Grand Floridian Cafe had crossed my mind too. My VR reception, however, is at Citricos woth a cocktail hour beforehand at Mizner's and I kind of feel it might lessen the impact of this if we have been there previously. Am I being silly?
Any other ideas?

No that's normal I wouldn't do that either, i'd forgotten that when I was thinking, let me think again.

[Chilly]

Again i've not been but what about Sanaa at Kidani Village, that way they'd get to see the beautiful AKL and there is a nice bar there as well, Victoria Falls, or do you think the menu wouldn't suite the older folks?

Along the same lines what about Artist Point at WL, they have the Territory Lounge.

[tinkerbell 766]

Claire sweetie
Great minds must think alike!!! I was actually thinking about Artists point myself!! I had not thought about Sanaa though. I must check out both menus. Thanks so much for your help!!

[Chilly]

Claire sweetie
Great minds must think alike!!! I was actually thinking about Artists point myself!! I had not thought about Sanaa though. I must check out both menus. Thanks so much for your help!!

:goodvibes

[BecBennett]

I like the first one more than the second one. The border around the first image adds to it, I think. In the second image, I think maybe Donald gets lost in all the scrollwork.


I agree :goodvibes

[tinkerbell 766]

Thanks so much for all your help girls!!!
I think we will stay with the tags with the plain black border.
Also, I am seriously thinking of having the 'get together' dinner at 'The Turf Club' at Saratoga Springs. Has anybody eaten there? Thoughts?
I love the menu at 'Artists Point' but it is quite pricey. I think Sanaa is out due to the menu choices (I love the sound of them but I think the oldies would struggle with it :thumbsup2)
Thanks for any advice you acan give!!!

[tinkerbell 766]

So on the day before the VR we are having a couple of events.
The boys are doing 'Grub 'n' Golf. They will be having lunch at 'The Dolphin Fountain' (with no doubt a couple of beers!!!) and then playing the fairways course at Fantasia Gardens.
We are doing small favour bags for all the men containing a cap, a pen with the 'Grub 'n' Golf Donald logo printed on it (thank heavens for Vistaprint :thumbsup2) and a tin of mints with the Donald logo. I might think of some other things to add to these bags before the actual day.
Here's the invitation

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/gandginvitenewsize.jpg

An example of the favour bag tags

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/GandGtagsnewsize.jpg

And the cap going in the bags

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/anothercap.jpg


The ladies will be going for afternoon tea at the Garden View Tearoom at the GF. The dress code will be pretty and feminine and hats and facinators will be encouraged!!! :goodvibes
When I was thinking about a theme for my tea, I realised that, besides Disney (obviously!!) one of my happiest childhood memories was of the times when my Dad would read 'Alice in Wonderland' to my brother and I at bedtime, a chapter a night. This was not the Disney version, but the original Lewis Caroll story with the old black and white illustrations. I decided, to honour that memory, the theme of my tea would be the original version of 'Alice in Wonderland'
Here is the invitation. I originally wanted to do this on old-looking parchment paper, but they looked much better on a cream background

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/teainvite9th.jpg

The favour bags for this will have to be given out in the lobby of the GF, as the Garden View tearoom does not allow gift-giving

An example of the favour bag tags

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/letstryagain.jpg

The favour bags will contain, a copy of the original story, an 'Eat me bag' containing a box of these chocolates

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/d37.jpg

A 'Drink me bag' containing Whitards teabags, a teabag squeezer, and an Alice teaspoon for some and hot chocolate mix, a mini whisk, marshmallows and chocolate sprinkles for the girls who are not so into tea!!
Tags for these bags

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/eatanddrink9th.jpg

The bags will also contain a teatowel

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/getimage.jpg

The little princess who is attending the tea will be given a Disney 'Alice in Wonderland' book and an Alice doll

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/412026709438.jpg

I am so looking forward to the tea with all the girls!!!

Next up... plans for the big day!!!

[minniebride]

I LOVE all of your tea favors and designs!!!:goodvibes

I've heard that the Turf Club is pretty good! I've also heard good things about Olivia's Cafe at Old Key West & Kouzzina on the Boardwalk!

[pixiegirl]

I love all of your ideas!!! Everything looks great!!

[tinkerbell 766]

I LOVE all of your tea favors and designs!!!:goodvibes

I've heard that the Turf Club is pretty good! I've also heard good things about Olivia's Cafe at Old Key West & Kouzzina on the Boardwalk!

I love all of your ideas!!! Everything looks great!!

Thanks girls. I think (hope!!!) both events will be such fun!!
Minniebride - Thanks for the ideas - I will check them out, although I think that Kouzzina is out due to the 'mediterrranean' menu. We would love it, but we have some very fussy oldies in the party and it is all I can do to pursuade them to go anywhere but the Harry Ramsden's fish and chip shop in Epcot - such boring eaters!!! I will check out Olivias though!!
I figured that the Turf club might be good as afterwards those who were tired could get a taxi back to their resort and those who wanted to carry on, could walk the path to DTD. :thumbsup2

[Chilly]

I wish I was coming to your VR!

[tinkerbell 766]

Claire sweetie
You are most welcome if you can make it!!!
It would be an honour to have you there!!

[Sarah84]

All your plans sound fantastic Joanne, a love how you described cricket 'strange english game' :rotfl:
Your logo is fantastic, love the idea of putting it on the gifts bags and also all the labels and tags you have designed.

How nice you you to use your points for all your guests first 5 nights, any chance of getting another guests so you aren't stuck with 13 :goodvibes i'm sure it won't be unlucky for you.
I hope you have enough in your budget for that dessert party :)

[tinkerbell 766]

Thank you so much Sarah for reading along and for your kind words!!!
What part of London are you from? I was born in Carshalton (a town near Croydon, Wimbledon and Epsom). I now live in the Lake District.

[Sarah84]

Thank you so much Sarah for reading along and for your kind words!!!
What part of London are you from? I was born in Carshalton (a town near Croydon, Wimbledon and Epsom). I now live in the Lake District.

I'm in Greenwich now but grew up in Rotherhithe (just by Tower Bridge) I bet you much prefer living in the Lake District? I remember going there for a long weekend years ago with family and it was so pretty

[tinkerbell 766]

Do you know, you are right. I would be very reluctant to move back to London, although I visit frequently as I still have a lot of family down there.

[disneemama]

joining in...first time to ever follow a PJ! :banana:

[Disney9.9.10]

I love all of your plans so far! You are going to have so much fun with your golf and tea party outings!

[tinkerbell 766]

joining in...first time to ever follow a PJ! :banana:

I love all of your plans so far! You are going to have so much fun with your golf and tea party outings!

disneemama - I am so honoured that mine is the first PJ you are following. Thank you so much!!! I hope I don't disappoint!! (?sp) Stay tuned as tomorrow I intend to start on the VR itself!!

Disney9.9.10 - Thank you. We are both looking forward to our pre-VR events very much!! Your big day is so close now. You must be so excited!!

[tinkerbell 766]

So on to the big day itself!!!
State of play with vendors at the moment:-
Swan package (planner Karen Gingerich) - Booked and first installment paid
Randy Chapman - Booked and deposit paid
Patricia Le Jeune - Booked and deposit paid
Rev Tim Herring - Booked and deposit paid
Christine MacPhail (harpist for ceremony and cake/champagne reception) - Booked, no deposit required.
It's Tasty Too (Heather) for cake - Booked and deposit paid
Atmospheres floral (Debbie) - Date reserved. Telephone consaltation on Monday (16th August 2010)
Limo transport - I still being arranged and in the hands of my planner, Karen
Citricos/Mizners - Initial contact made with manager Lee. Can't be officially booked until November

I plan to pop over to the Kona Cafe for an early breakfast with the family. Because it is a VR Paul and I will be spending the previous night together and then going to breakfast together.
I have always wanted to eat at Kona and sample the famous Tonga Toast, so I figured that my VR day would be an excellent day to do it!!! I think it is a good idea to have a good breakfast as I probably won't eat again until dinner at 5.30pm. Well, I may have a slice of cake!!!
After breakfast, I will be sending Paul and younger DS Alfie off to do their own thing and then get ready in DMIL's room. I do not want Paul seeing me in my dress until we have our 'first look'. I think my older son will have to stay and get ready with us girls (me DD and Mum) as DMIL and her partner only have a studio room and I think four people getting ready in there will be more than enough.
With Paul and Alfie gone, I will have a leisurely shower and wait for Patricia to arrive.
I have not absolutely decided on my hair yet. My hair is currently just past shoulder length and will obviously be slightly longer come May. I know I definately want it up and here are a few pictures I have gathered as inspiration. I think I may just print them all out and take them with me to show Patricia on the day and trust her expertise!! I will not be in WDW before May so, unfortuately, cannot have a trial.
My thanks if any of these pictures are of your hair, and my apologies for not asking your permission to use them as inspiration pics!!

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/101.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/DSC04149.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/IMG_2890-1.jpg

I am hoping to have this in my hair. I found it on Etsy but haven't ordered it yet.
I would love you opinions on the hairstyles and the facinator and veil set!!

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/facinatorandveil.jpg

[tinkerbell 766]

So Randy wants me ready to do our 'first look' at BLT at 1.00pm. That reminds me that I must e-mail Patricia and let her know as it says in my contract with her that she will have me ready for 2.00pm.
Here is my dress, shoes, earrings and bracelet

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/Christina.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/Christinab.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/Scarlett-PL.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/starlet-of-beauty-earrings_1797.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/279975541_o.jpg

I didn't order my dress from 'bestbridalprices' but they were the only site that would allow me to save a picture of it!! I have ordered it from a bridal boutique near where my daughter lives. I have paid half as a deposit and going for another fitting in October. I can't wait to try it on again!!
The shoes look more creamy in the picture than in real life but are a perfect match for the dress. I took a swatch of the dress fabric with me when I bought them, so I know they are a perfect match.
I love the hidden (or not so hidden) Mickey on the bangle. It was so cheap and it is really sparkly. I love it!!!

Next up - Colour scheme, DD's dress, floral and cake

[Sccrmnky2005]

So Randy wants me ready to do our 'first look' at BLT at 1.00pm. That reminds me that I must e-mail Patricia and let her know as it says in my contract with her that she will have me ready for 2.00pm.
Here is my dress, shoes, earrings and bracelet

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/Christina.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/Christinab.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/Scarlett-PL.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/starlet-of-beauty-earrings_1797.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/279975541_o.jpg

I didn't order my dress from 'bestbridalprices' but they were the only site that would allow me to save a picture of it!! I have ordered it from a bridal boutique near where my daughter lives. I have paid half as a deposit and gor for another fitting in October. I can't wait to try it on again!!
The shoes look more creamy in the picture than in real life but are a perfect match for the dress. I took a swatch of the dress fabric with me when I bought them, so I know they are a perfect match.
I love the hidden (or not so hidden) Mickey on the bangle. It was so cheap and it is really sparkly. I love it!!!

Next up - Colour scheme, DD's dress, floral and cake

I love the dress and shoes it looks so pretty together!! I can't wait to hear more about everything!!!!!! :lmao:

[Sarah84]

The hairstyles are lovely and your dress is gorgeous - is it a Maggie?
I love the hidden (or rather not so) mickey in the braclet and the earrings are gorgeous too :) I'm hating the search for jewellery, good job I have a long time to keep searching.

[tinkerbell 766]

Thanks girls!!
Yep the dress is a Maggie (can't beat a Maggie, right?)
What do you think of the facinator/veil? I really need opinions on that!!!
I forgot to post my garter. It really is out of the colour scheme but it is a tribute to the ultimate diva/starlet/princess Minnie Mouse and I love that I will have a tribute to her hidden under my dress!!! It also has a little blue bow for the 'something blue'

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/il_430xN_164742140.jpg

[Sccrmnky2005]

Thanks girls!!
Yep the dress is a Maggie (can't beat a Maggie, right?)
What do you think of the facinator/veil? I really need opinions on that!!!
I forgot to post my garter. It really is out of the colour scheme but it is a tribute to the ultimate diva/starlet/princess Minnie Mouse and I love that I will have a tribute to her hidden under my dress!!! It also has a little blue bow for the 'something blue'

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/il_430xN_164742140.jpg

Yay!! This is the garter I got but with white everything that is black in the picture!!! I love it!! and I LOVE MINNIE MOUSE!!:love:

[tinkerbell 766]

You know I thought about switching the black for white too, but decided to leave it black to represent her black body and ears!!!!!

[Sarah84]

Thanks girls!!
Yep the dress is a Maggie (can't beat a Maggie, right?)
What do you think of the facinator/veil? I really need opinions on that!!!
I forgot to post my garter. It really is out of the colour scheme but it is a tribute to the ultimate diva/starlet/princess Minnie Mouse and I love that I will have a tribute to her hidden under my dress!!! It also has a little blue bow for the 'something blue'

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/il_430xN_164742140.jpg

Knew it had to be a Maggie, her dresses are the prettiest ;) though maybe im a bit biased cause i'm a Maggie bride too.
I love those facinator/veils not something i'd wear myself mainly cause i don't think it would suit me plus I plan on wearing my hair down but I've seen many brides wear them and they look gorgeous, so I say go for it.

Love, love, love the Minnie garter, another big Minnie fan here :lovestruc

[tinkerbell 766]

Thanks for your opinion Sarah!!
I think I will go for it as I have always wanted to wear one!!!

[BecBennett]

Yay for Maggie Brides!! :laughing:

I love all your jewellry! It's beautiful!

[DisneyDiva84]

I love the Mickey bangle where did you find it!?!?!?!?!?!

[Disney9.9.10]

You are going to look so lovely on your VR day! My first thought about that dress was also "is that a Maggie?" lol I am a Maggie bride too so I love her dresses, and yours is no exception - it is beautiful! And I love the Mickey bangle :goodvibes

[Chilly]

Claire sweetie
You are most welcome if you can make it!!!
It would be an honour to have you there!!

Sadly won't be going to WDW next year.

I like the first hair photo, and I love the birdcage veil.

Beautiful dress! Fab garter! I want that bracelet!

[disneemama]

Everything looks beautiful, you are going to look amazing. I love Maggie dresses too, hope my daughter finds a dress soon.

[tinkerbell 766]

Thanks for all the kind words girls!!!

Claire - Sorry you can't make it, it would have been fun!!

Here is the link for the bangle. It is really cheap but so lovely and very sparkly!!!


http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/DISNEY-MICKEY-MOUSE-BANGLE-BRACELET-w-SWAROVSKI-CRYSTAL-/230509459452?pt=UK_Jewellery_Watches_CostumeJewell ery_CA

[tinkerbell 766]

Everything looks beautiful, you are going to look amazing. I love Maggie dresses too, hope my daughter finds a dress soon.

Aw thank you!!!
I am sure your daughter will find a wonderful dress soon!!!

[belle1099]

Hello.... Hello... is anybody out there?
Oh well I'll plod on undaunted.

Welcome bag contents
Inside the welcome bags will be the following:-
One of these envelopes containing a welcome letter, park maps and an information booklet (I have bought brag-book style photo albums and intend inserting pages of (hopefully) useful information and tips. I stole this idea from another Disbride - acwinsett- thanks Andrea!!
There is one envelope for the guests staying at BLT and one for the guests staying at Kidani. Here they are

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/BLTsomadmad.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/kidaniwelcomeagain.jpg

Also inside the welcome bags will be:-
A Bare Necessities kit containing plasters, indigestion relief tablets, paracetamol (I think it is called Tylenol in the USA), Ibuprofen, antiseptic wipes and (for those with children) paediatric pain relief sachets.

A pampering kit containing bubble bath/shower gel, a bath puff, shampoo, conditioner, a fragranced candle and lip balm (all in the same fragrance)

A hand care kit containing lavender soap, a nail brush and hand cream and manicure set

A clothes care kit containing stain removal wipes, a sewing kit and a shoe shine pad

A foot care kit containing blister plasters, a soothing foot cream and foot soak

Tissues

A notebook and pen

Ponchos (adult and child's sizes)

Breath mints

Insect repellant and sting relief

I am undecided whether to add a snack pack or not. I won't have time to shop for snacks in Orlando before handing out the welcome bags and I don't really like the idea of transporting foodstuffs all the way on the plane from England!! What do you guys think?

I would also like to add a lanyard for everyone to store their passes, fastpasses etc and also a water misting fan, but since I would need 13 of each of these, I need to find some inexpensive ones!!! I'm a cheapskate I know!!!

If anybody can think of anything I could add to the bags that I haven't thought of, I would be grateful to hear ideas!!

I have decided to make more work for myself by making labels for all the stuff to go in the welcome bags so that it all co-ordinates. Some of the labels will go on original packaging and some items, I will repackage in plastic bottles etc.
Here are some of the labels I have designed already. I have tried to incorporate as many of my beloved Disney films into this project as I can, but some films have had to appear twice. Again, if anybody has any ideas for appropriate pictures from films for any items, I would be grateful!!! I still have some to do and still have some stuff to buy!!

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/welcomebagcontents4.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/welcomebagcontents3.jpg

For the children, I have bought small backpacks (princesses and Toy Story 3) and will put in them an autograph book (which if I have time I will make myself), a fat pen for autograph signing, a pencil case containing the usual pens, pencils, erasers etc., a Disney activity and colouring book, hand-held fans (again either princesses or TS3), stickers, a Disney beenie and anything else I can find between now and the VR (which is cheap :goodvibes). Again any ideas gratefully received!!



Wow!!! You have GREAT ideas! I can't lie...I'll probably be borrowing some of these ideas :) Thank you for sharing!!!!:thumbsup2

[tinkerbell 766]

Borrow away sweetie!!!
If you need any wording changed or any help with anything, let me know. I'll be glad to help!!

[jtanddolly]

I love the gown, shoes, and jewelry! If you are taking votes for hairstyles...I like the first one.

[tinkerbell 766]

I love the gown, shoes, and jewelry! If you are taking votes for hairstyles...I like the first one.

Thanks Dolly - I am leaning towards the first one too!!!

[Goofy4Ever]

Subscribing to your PJ...I love your garter and that logo is awesome!!

Congrats and can't wait to read more....

[tinkerbell 766]

Thank you so much!!!
Hoping to update a bit more this evening (if I can prise the computer from the clutches of DH!!!)

[tinkerbell 766]

So on to the colour scheme
I went back and forth for ages with colours. I went from orange to pink to blue to purple but nothing was 'sitting right' with me!! Then one day I was looking at photos of the ceremony site at the Swan, and I realised that my colour scheme was there right in front of me!!

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/image009.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/BLU000.jpg

So now my colour scheme is echoing the earthy/peachy/teracottery and bluey/aqua hues of the Swan hotel!! Accents will be white and silver (colours of my dress)

Here is dress we have chosen for my daughter who is MOH

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/SPA-1.jpg

Her accessories are still TBD. I don't think this dress needs a necklace, but am on the look out for suitable silver earrings. I think I will either get some shoes dyed to match the dress colour or go with silver shoes (easier to make use of later!!). I am still to decide.

Floral is still abit up in the air!!
I spoke with my florist last night on the phone. It is so difficult trying to visulize things when you are in the UK and your florist is in Orlando!! Everything needs to be done via e-mail or over the phone.
It is established that I want a full cascade bouquet for myself and a smaller round version with the same flowers for my daughter. My favourite flowers are roses and freesias, so the bouquets will consist of teracotta coloured roses and white freesias for definate. I think we will probably also go with peachy coloured lilies as suggested by my florist. I think adding these in the lighter shade will be nice. My florist also suggested adding light blue delphiniums. I am not sure. I agree that adding another colour will give the bouquets a 'lift' but looking for pictures of light blue delphiniums on the internet, the only pictures I found seemed to be the 'wrong' shade of blue.
Below are some pictures of the shape of bouquet I want for myself and some pictures of the colours and flowers we seem to agree on, although I hope to have lilies which are slightly more 'peachy' than in the picture. I have also posted one of the pictures I found of light blue delphiniums. I would be so grateful for opinions on whether I should include these or not!!!

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/flowersagain.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/Light_Blue_Delphinium_Flowers_300.jpg

Both bouquets will be wrapped in white ribbon and will have swarovski crystals both within the flowers and closing the ribbon wraps.

Mu husbands bout will probably be the teracotta rose accented with greenery and a white freesia and my sons' will probably be the teracotta rose just with greenery.

Ceremony decor is also still a bit up in the air!! I orginally wanted to have two pillars with arrangements of my flowers as in the picture of the ceremony site I posted above. My florist, however, is a little concerned about the pillars for an outside wedding as she has had them blow over in the wind before :scared1: I certainly do not want to be worrying about that if it is a bit breezy on the day!!! She has a few other ideas and will be letting me see some pictures of a tri-fold metal screen thing she uses a lot and she assures me is gorgeous when decorated with flowers. I will keep you posted as to what I decide!! Whatever happens, I want ceremony decor that can be transferred to the tables for the reception at Citricos. So as you can see, floral is still a work in progress

For a ceremony musician, we have hired Christine MacPhail who is a very talented harpist. I always wanted a harpist to play at our ceremony but thought it would be too pricey!! I was pleasently surprisedat how affordable she is!!! She has been a joy to work with so far and she sent me a CD of her playing and it is beautiful. So she is hired to play at the ceremony and throughout the cake/champagne reception. I just need to decide on music, which I haven't even began to sort out yet!!!

Officiant is Rev Tim Herring who seems to get good reviews on the boards, so I have booked him and the deposit is paid.

I am still in the process of sorting out the service and readings, so will post them when they are finalised.

On to the cake. It is being made by Heather from 'It's Tasty Too and so far she has been great!! We are having a small two tier cake (tiers will be 8' and 6'). At the moment the flavours are standing at carrot cake with cream cheese filling for the bottom tier and coconut cake with pineapple filling for the top tier. This may change though.
Here is an inspiration picture but you will have to use your imagination (where is Figment when you need him!!) to imagine the differences between this cake and mine!!

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/BakeMeACakeinBlue.jpg

So my bottom tier will be 'quilted' like the bottom tier of this cake and my top tier will be plain like the top tier of the pictured cake. Obviously, there will be no middle tier. The ribbons around the bottom of the tiers and the sugarpaste ribbon cascading down the cake will be the colour of my daughter's dress (I need to send Heather a swatch of fabric for colour matching) For the topper, Heather is re-creating a cake topper I found a picture of on the internet (see below) and adding a crystal Mickey head brooch in the middle of the two swans to reflect our Mickey meets Swan theme

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/85_s_Swans_wedding_cake_toppers-1.jpg

Well, I think I have bored you all enough for one post!!!! Any ideas/opinions gratefully received.

[pixiegirl]

I love your colors. I agree that your daughter's dress doesn't need a necklace but would look nice with one as well.

I like your flower choices but I wouldn't use the blue flower. I agree that another color will give it pop but not the blue.

Your cake is going to be beautiful and the topper is perfect!!!

[Goofy4Ever]

I agree with Rebecca..no need for a necklace, but a nice silver charm braclet would be nice.

Not that blue for the flowers.

Love the cake.

[Chilly]

Lovely dress for your daughter.

I agree wrong blue in the flowers.

[tinkerbell 766]

Thanks girls!!
I have already told the florist to cut the blue delphiniums and when she saw the picture of DD's dress, she agreed with the decision. I thought I had sent her a picture already but it hadn't come through on the e-mail at the other end properly and so when she suggested the blue delphiniums, all she knew was the dress was blue (although, on reflection, it is probably more green!!)
So the blue delphiniums are gone!!! Thanks for all the advice.
Great idea about the charm bracelet. Emily (DD) already has a lovely silver charm bracelet (with a number of Disney charms on it!!) so she will probably wear it on the day anyway.
Thanks for reading along girls!!!

[angel81uk]

It's great to see your plans coming together Joanne, your dress is really beautiful and I love the fascinator!

I ate at the Turf Club last September (bit of a last minute thing as I came down with a migraine and couldn't do the drive to our ADR). It was VERY quiet, I think there was only one other table seated whilst we were there but we really enjoyed the food. It wouldn't be my first choice in future but that's only down to the "safe" menu rather than the quality of the food so probably perfect in your situation. I know I enjoyed my steak, not easy to do with a migraine! So a bit of a hidden gem if you ask me!

[tinkerbell 766]

Thanks sweetie
I agree - it wouldn't be our first choice either if it was just us, but considering the diversity of our party, I think it will be perfect. Also, as I think I mentioned, those with a bit of energy left can stroll to DTD afterwards and those who haven't can take a bus or taxi back to their resort!!

[brer rabbit 28]

It's wonderful to see how everything is falling into place for you. I love your dress and jewellery. Can't wait to see your Randy pics as we have booked him too.

I may have missed it but have you made any further plans for a DP? Sorry but I've been reading in my dinner hour so was on speed read!!!!:goodvibes

[tinkerbell 766]

Claire
I think I have (almost) decided against a DP. As much as I would love to have one, I refuse to remove my precious gown to go into Epcot or DHS and so SCP for 'Wishes' would be my only option. That would be fine but I feel 'Wishes' without the music is just not the same and $500.00 for music on top of everything else is, I think, going to be a step too far for us.
I have read about Wendy (WeeDee) and her wonderful wedding and since our reception is at Citricos like her's was, I think we may steal her idea of wandering down to the Marina with our guests (and drinks) and watch from there. The music is piped in to the Marina and whilst it won't be private, it will be free!!
I will probably spend some of the money I save on a mini 'honeymoon' for DH and me at Discovery Cove the day after our VR. I will still be vastly better off doing this than going with the DP, and we will still get to see 'Wishes' complete with music.
Thanks for your nice comments on my plans so far

[Chilly]

I know i'm not the Claire you addressed that to but I think thats a really good idea.

[tinkerbell 766]

Doen't matter which Claire - all the Claires on here are real sweeties!!!
I agonised long and hard over the DP, but in the end this was the plan which seemed to work best for us!!!

[spedtcr]

am planning a vow renewal, too, and am in awe at how wonderful yours will be! What is a DP?
Kari/Michigan/US

[Disney9.9.10]

Great idea for your colour scheme!! It is going to be so beautiful! And I love love love the cake topper :lovestruc

[Deemarch]

Love all of your ideas!!!

[mickeyshellbelle]

Hi Tinkerbell 766
If you dont mind, who is the designer of your daughter's dress. I have been searching for a specific color for my bridesmaids for forever, and that color looks like it might be it! Thank you!

[brer rabbit 28]

Doen't matter which Claire - all the Claires on here are real sweeties!!!
I agonised long and hard over the DP, but in the end this was the plan which seemed to work best for us!!!

:rotfl:This made me laugh!

I agree totally with your decision about SCP. It just wouldn't be the same without the music and the extra cost for that is a little hair raising!

Very good call on Discovery Cove. Infact I may put this to Chris as our wedding gift to each other.

[disneemama]

Hi Tinkerbell, Just checking in to see how things ae going with your plans. We returned from vacation/planning session this week.. Everything went perfect, food and cake tasting was outstanding. Francks was beautiful but they were not finished with returning all the stuff yet so it did seem a little empty. DD still has a lot of deciding to do but all the big stuff is booked.

[geek+nerd]

Claire
I think I have (almost) decided against a DP. As much as I would love to have one, I refuse to remove my precious gown to go into Epcot or DHS and so SCP for 'Wishes' would be my only option. That would be fine but I feel 'Wishes' without the music is just not the same and $500.00 for music on top of everything else is, I think, going to be a step too far for us.
I have read about Wendy (WeeDee) and her wonderful wedding and since our reception is at Citricos like her's was, I think we may steal her idea of wandering down to the Marina with our guests (and drinks) and watch from there. The music is piped in to the Marina and whilst it won't be private, it will be free!!
I will probably spend some of the money I save on a mini 'honeymoon' for DH and me at Discovery Cove the day after our VR. I will still be vastly better off doing this than going with the DP, and we will still get to see 'Wishes' complete with music.
Thanks for your nice comments on my plans so far

Are you no longer allowed to wear your dress into the parks for a DP? I thought you could.

[tinkerbell 766]

I am not a DFTW bride but a S/D (VR) bride. Only DFTW brides are allowed to wear their dresses into the parks for their DPs!!!

[tinkerbell 766]

am planning a vow renewal, too, and am in awe at how wonderful yours will be! What is a DP?
Kari/Michigan/US

Great idea for your colour scheme!! It is going to be so beautiful! And I love love love the cake topper :lovestruc

Love all of your ideas!!!

Hi Tinkerbell 766
If you dont mind, who is the designer of your daughter's dress. I have been searching for a specific color for my bridesmaids for forever, and that color looks like it might be it! Thank you!

:rotfl:This made me laugh!

I agree totally with your decision about SCP. It just wouldn't be the same without the music and the extra cost for that is a little hair raising!

Very good call on Discovery Cove. Infact I may put this to Chris as our wedding gift to each other.

Hi Tinkerbell, Just checking in to see how things ae going with your plans. We returned from vacation/planning session this week.. Everything went perfect, food and cake tasting was outstanding. Francks was beautiful but they were not finished with returning all the stuff yet so it did seem a little empty. DD still has a lot of deciding to do but all the big stuff is booked.

Hi girls!!
I just returned from a terrible week in a caravan with DS (10) and my Mum. It rained all week and the site the caravan was on was horrible!!
It was so nice to return to some lovely messages from my Disfriends!!

spedtcr - Thank you for your lovely comments!!! Have fun planning your VR - I know I am having a ball. I am sure that your VR will be beautiful. Would love to here all about your plans!! I am sure you have figured it by now but DP stands for dessert party.

Disney 9.9.10 - Thank you. I think the colour scheme fits really well. When I saw that cake topper, I knew it would be perfect for us!!

Deemarch -Thank you so much!!

mickeyshellbelle - The dress is by Dessy and the colour is Spa. I am glad you like it. I think Dessy do other styles in the Spa colour too.

brer rabbit - It's so true all Claires here are lovely!!! I think the decision on the DP is the right one for us!! I am looking forward to (hopefully) doing DC with DH on the day after the VR.

disneemama - Hi!! I am so glad the planning session went well!!! Can't wait to hear all about it.

[jtanddolly]

Joanne, Thanks for all you do to help others on their trips. You are so good about encouraging other Disney brides!

[tinkerbell 766]

Hi Dolly
Thank you so much for your wonderful comments!!
You are so so kind to do these for me!!
I will be using the logo I designed for the VR (I have to, as I already had the welcome bags printed), but thought it might be fun to have a different one to go on the newsletter I need to send out soon!! If it is okay with you, I will use the first one for this and maybe the swan with the round mickey.
Are you paying for your clipart these days? The first swan one is beautiful!!!

[jtanddolly]

I look forward to seeing your newsletter!

[disneemama]

Your VR plans are coming along so nicely, everything looks beautiful. You are very talented, and I love your designs. We had rain everyday we were in Florida for the PS, but it went very well. The GF is so amazing, elegant and huge.

[tinkerbell 766]

I have started my own little company helping brides with paper printables from monograms and wedding stationary to placecards, favors and everything inbetween. So far, for customers, I have actually designed everything from start to finish. But if I can't design an image, then I would pay for the clipart for commercial use.

For yours (since I did it for free as I think it is important to do things for other DISigners that do so much for people on the Boards) I did find the images online. I actually reworked the first image with the swans to get it where I like it, and did slight changes on the other images. I still LOVE the monogram you designed! I think it is perfect.

I look forward to seeing your newsletter! Even if you don't use one of the things I made.

Your VR plans are coming along so nicely, everything looks beautiful. You are very talented, and I love your designs. We had rain everyday we were in Florida for the PS, but it went very well. The GF is so amazing, elegant and huge.

Dolly - Thanks again. I hop your new venture goes well. You deserve every success!!! I will post the newsletter when I get it done. I am sure I will use at least one of your designs on it and keep mine for the actual VR stationary, labels etc.

disneemama - Thanks for your lovely comments. I don't feel I have nearly as much talent as some of my friends over on the 'Creative DISigns' board but I do love to dabble!!! My break was (unfortuately) on an English coastal resort and it was raining and very windy all week. Just another reminder why I save all my pennies to have my Florida holidays!!!

[pixiegirl]

I am so sorry that your vacation wasn't enjoyable. That is always a bummer when you plan something and the weather doesn't cooperate. I love the designs Dolly made for you!!!

[evey82]

Hi just to let you know ive been following your plans and they look great! I love the logo for the welcome bags and everything your planning on having in them.

I'm going to a caravan in the lake district in a few weeks, at lake land if you know it?

Looking forward to reading more about your plans, Eve x

[jtanddolly]

Posted one more...

[tinkerbell 766]

I am so sorry that your vacation wasn't enjoyable. That is always a bummer when you plan something and the weather doesn't cooperate. I love the designs Dolly made for you!!!

Hi just to let you know ive been following your plans and they look great! I love the logo for the welcome bags and everything your planning on having in them.

I'm going to a caravan in the lake district in a few weeks, at lake land if you know it?

Looking forward to reading more about your plans, Eve x

Here is one more...

http://i415.photobucket.com/albums/pp232/jtanddolly/Requests/th_Joanne6.jpg (http://s415.photobucket.com/albums/pp232/jtanddolly/Requests/?action=view&current=Joanne6.jpg)

pixiegirl - Thank you. The break was awful. It is the only holiday we are having this year due to the vast amount of saving required for next May's VR. Oh well, at least we have that to look forward to!! I am glad you like Dolly's designs - she is such a kind, generous and very talented lady. I am spoilt for choice as to which one to choose for my newsletter!! As I said earlier, I have to use the logo I designed for the actual VR stuff as I already had the welcome bags printed.

evey82 - Thanks for the lovely comments!! Is Lakeland the name of the caravan site? I am not sure I know it. Do you know where it is in the Lake District? I live 2 miles from Lake Ullswater. If it is near me, perhaps we can meet up for a coffee!!!

Dolly - Thanks once again. I love this one too!! I am not sure which to use now!!

[brer rabbit 28]

You didn't come to Cleethorpes did you Joanne? It's been truly miserable here this week, so bad infact that we absconded for a shopping jolly to my hometown, Manchester this weekend. Unbelievably the weather was better there (and it always rains in Manchester):rotfl2:

[tinkerbell 766]

You didn't come to Cleethorpes did you Joanne? It's been truly miserable here this week, so bad infact that we absconded for a shopping jolly to my hometown, Manchester this weekend. Unbelievably the weather was better there (and it always rains in Manchester):rotfl2:

Claire sweetie
No I didn't, I went to Selsy in Sussex :sad2:, but I wish I had come to Cleethorpes!!! I least that way I could have met up with you. That would have been such fun!!!

[jtanddolly]

You mentioned if there was anything else that you could make for your welcome bags. I looked through the pictures of the tags you made for the welcome bags and I didn't see a door knob hanger or a wine/water bottle tag. The bottle tags are nice as you can make them in advance and then pop them on top of a wine/water bottle after you buy it once you are there. Then you don't have to worry with a wrapper.

I especially love giving water as most people love to have a little water around in their hotel room especially at night before they go to bed.

Good luck with everything. I know it will be wonderful.

[J.ThaddeusToad]

Just tagged a long to this thread. Your plans sound wonderful and I would love to know how you have arranged your reception/dinner at Citircos. I'm hoping to be a Swan bride in the fall of 2011 and have just starting my planning. I'm hoping to have a small dinner reception at the California Grill or perhaps the Yachtsman steakhouse. Any help you can give would be great (and sorry if you mentioned how you set it up in another post!).

[Chilly]

Sorry you didn't have fun on your trip, we just went camping in the New Forest and it was lovely.

[tinkerbell 766]

Just tagged a long to this thread. Your plans sound wonderful and I would love to know how you have arranged your reception/dinner at Citircos. I'm hoping to be a Swan bride in the fall of 2011 and have just starting my planning. I'm hoping to have a small dinner reception at the California Grill or perhaps the Yachtsman steakhouse. Any help you can give would be great (and sorry if you mentioned how you set it up in another post!).

Sorry you didn't have fun on your trip, we just went camping in the New Forest and it was lovely.

ThaddeusToad (great name!!) - Thank you so much for the kind words about my plans!! I have e-mailed Lee and his team at Citricos about my reception and they have been most helpful and agreed to hold my reception at their restaurant. I still need to officially book the ADR in the usual way which I can't do until November, but Lee has already 'pencilled in' my reception in his diary and has answered all my questions and e-mails very promptly. He has been great.
I assume that the proceedure would be the same for the restaurants you mention but I cannot help with the e-mail addresses as I got Lee's e-mail address from a fellow disbride who had already arranged her reception at Citricos. Good luck with all your planning.

Claire sweetie - We were on the south coast near Portsmouth, so not too far from the New Forest but our weather was appalling!! I am glad you had a nice break though.

[brer rabbit 28]

Claire sweetie
No I didn't, I went to Selsy in Sussex :sad2:, but I wish I had come to Cleethorpes!!! I least that way I could have met up with you. That would have been such fun!!!

Come next time. I'll buy you an ice cream and a donkey ride:lmao:

[tinkerbell 766]

Come next time. I'll buy you an ice cream and a donkey ride:lmao:

I'll hold you to that!!! I love donkey rides!!:thumbsup2

[bababear_50]

Hi Joanne Hon
Wonderful planning and DISigns Hon! I am so happy for you and Paul!
I am going to be following this along if that is ok--I'm just so excited for you.
Hugs Mel:grouphug:

[tinkerbell 766]

Aw Mel
I am so happy you are along for the ride. It's lovely to have another one of my DISigner friends over here with me (Dolly also drops in!!). Makes it feel just like home!!

[blessedisneymomx3]

Such great information, I've been stalking all the VW PJ for a few months now and I've finally taken the plunge and joined, yeah!! So excited for everything you have done so far, you are so creative. DH and I will be celebrating our 15 year and plan a DCL VW in November 2012. I have to say though, I'm already excited after reading many other reports. Great job and can't wait to hear more!!

[tinkerbell 766]

Such great information, I've been stalking all the VW PJ for a few months now and I've finally taken the plunge and joined, yeah!! So excited for everything you have done so far, you are so creative. DH and I will be celebrating our 15 year and plan a DCL VW in November 2012. I have to say though, I'm already excited after reading many other reports. Great job and can't wait to hear more!!

Hi and thanks for reading!!
I will be looking forward to hearing all your plans for November 2012!!
I am having such a ball with my planning and am so looking forward to my special day. I am sure it will be the same for you!!
Happy planning and if I can help with anything just let me know!!

[tinkerbell 766]

Hi everyone. Sorry I haven't posted for a while but real life takes over sometimes. All the schools went back last week after the summer break and so it is always a busy time getting Alfie ready for a new school year!! He is now in the final year of primary school and will go to high school next September. Where we live still operates a selective system and has a grammar school for which he needs to sit an entrance exam. He sits this at the end of this month, so some extra study time has been on the agenda!!

We have decided to do a 'Trash the Dress' with Randy a few days after the VR. I an very excited about this as I have always thought they look like such fun!! We have schedualed it with Randy for Monday 9th May at 10.00am. I was figuring on having it at a resort pool (Randy is willing to shoot wherever we want), but I am unsure of which one to pick. Any ideas girls? I thought it may be nice to have it at a resort with a beach too so that we could get some 'messing on the beach' shots too. At this point in our trip, we will be staying at POR which is a beautiful resort, so I have thought about doing it there too. What do you all think? I was concerned that if you were not staying at a particular resort, they may not be too happy about your having your 'TTD' session there, but I do have pool hoping priviledges with my DVC membership and Randy thinks it wouldn't be a problem whichever resort we choose so I am really undecided!!
HELP!!!!

[Ann117]

I love all your ideas!! I wish I would have seen your welcome bag ideas before my wedding I would have had to steal some of them! A trash the dress session with be so much fun! I want to do one on our year anniversary but not sure if it will happen now do to my dress already being trashed by the cleaner :sad1:.

[Chilly]

You prob can't go wrong with any of the pools, they are all good!

[tinkerbell 766]

I love all your ideas!! I wish I would have seen your welcome bag ideas before my wedding I would have had to steal some of them! A trash the dress session with be so much fun! I want to do one on our year anniversary but not sure if it will happen now do to my dress already being trashed by the cleaner :sad1:.

:scared1: OMG it's terrible that the cleaner trashed your dress!!! What happened?

[brer rabbit 28]

What about the beach club? I don't know what the pool is like but there is a beach area I believe. Failing that I think you can't go wrong with Poly or GF, that way you can get some lovely castle shots.

[tinkerbell 766]

Do you know what, Claire sweetie, I hadn't even thought about the possibility of castle shots if we had the TTD at the Poly or the GF!!! You are a genius!! I think I am leaning towards the Poly - it is a very pretty pool and it has a beach with hammocks which would make for lovely pictures!!
I love the Beach Club, but I believe that to do a TTD at Stormalong Bay, you are obliged to pay for lifeguards :confused3 I think a DisBride (? Boardwalk Bride) did one there and had to pay for lifeguards. I would like to avoid this if I can!!

[KitKat5]

Hiya! Thought I'd pop over and read your PJ seeing as you were reading mine!! :goodvibes Your VR sounds like its going to be beautiful!! I look forward to seeing the pictures! :) By the way, I love your fascinator/veil and the dress is gorgeous!! I look forward to following along! :thumbsup2

[tinkerbell 766]

KitKat - Thank you sweetie!!
Glad you are following along!!

We have definately decided to do the TTD at the Poly. I am looking forward to getting both beach and pool shots. As Claire (brer rabbit) said, we could maybe get some shots with the castle in the background, which would be great since we will not be having an in-park shoot. I love some TTD shots I have seen, (sorry to the gorgeous Disbride who they belong to - I can't remember your name!!) which uses a bottle of champagne, and has some great pictures of them opening it etc. I think I may steal this idea!!
I am currently working on the next edition of the newsletter. For the second half of our trip, we are staying at PORS and have the DDP. I am hoping to gather ideas on where people want to eat, and will include a reply card with the newsletter so people can contribute ideas regarding where to try to get ADRs. I think that some days we may all eat together (all 15 of us!!) and others we will be in smaller groups, so I need to be organized before ADR day (which is 1st November). If I am booking an ADR for the whole group, will I have to use the group reservation line? How many are allowed in the party before you are required to book through the group reservation line?
I was REALLY naughty and bought a pair of Jimmy Choo's from Ebay last week!!! They are gold and I absolutely love them!!! I am hoping to wear them for the 'Get Together' dinner at the Turf Club Grill on the first Monday of our trip!! The will probably cripple me but after all 'beauty is pain' and they are to die for!!! I have always wanted a pair and couldn't resist!! I will take a pair of comfie flip-flops to change in to incase we decide to hit either DTD or the Boardwalk after the dinner!!
I am typing this at work so will try to post a picture of the shoes tomorrow.

[tlynk]

Oh my goodness! I'm so glad I found this thread! Your story brought tears to my eyes! I only read page one for today, but very anxious to dig in and read the rest! :lovestruc

[tinkerbell 766]

Oh my goodness! I'm so glad I found this thread! Your story brought tears to my eyes! I only read page one for today, but very anxious to dig in and read the rest! :lovestruc

How sweet you are!!
I hope you enjoy reading the rest, and will stick around to the bitter end. One of the nicest things about these boards is all the new friends one makes!!! :lovestruc

Here, as promised is my naughty Ebay purchase!!!
I absolutely love them, and intend to wear them for the 'Get Together' dinner on the night after our arrival in WDW.

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/B1sI61WkKGrHqQOKioEWJJF95bBMffPmCrCw0_3.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/B1kS9EgBGkKGrHqNjMEpdNWU9mBMeZ4Ut-w0_3.jpg

I am still slogging on with the latest edition of the newsletter. It seems to be a slow process but I will post it when it is done.

I have been playing around with the labels for the individual elements of the first aid kit for the Welcome bags. Here they are

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/firstaidkitlabels.jpg

I have decided to be completely anal about the whole thing and order small white boxes for any item that has original packaging which won't allow for one of my sticky labels to be attached!!! I think I am being too fussy, but I am a bit of a perfectionist about these things and I know my small amount of guests will appreciate my humble efforts!!!

I have ordered one of the gorgeous dress hangers from the Etsy seller several other DisBrides have used. It will say 'Paul and Joanne' and I will post a piccie when it arrives.
I have also ordered a sample of a chocolate swan which I am considering using on the tables at Citricos. I kind of hope that I don't like it when it arrives, as if I do, I will order 3 or 4 of them for the table, and they will be a nightmare to transport in the hand luggage on the plane!! The seller assures me that they are really well packaged (they must be as she sends them through the mail!!!), so if I like the sample, and I consider them to be sufficiently well packaged to survive in my hand-luggage, it may be an option. We shall see.....

[2nd Time Bride]

Love your Choos and your labels - they are both soooo cute!!

[Disney9.9.10]

Love the Choo's!! Beautiful! I love your labels too, if I was a guest, I would definitely appreciate the effort that goes into making something like that!

[Moxie Doll]

I love your history-it's very similar to ours. Our actual anniversary is in April but our VR is a year from December. Gorgeous shoes too!

[brer rabbit 28]

My my lady you have been sooo busy!!!

Love love the Choos, really sexy shoes. Bet you feel great in them. Get some party feet in them, might help fight the pain!

So pleased that you like my TTD suggestion. I hope to have some honeymoon pics there with Randy. I love the hammock and beach shots that I have seen of other Disbrides.

I also plan on getting one of the etsy hangers. I love etsy! Would love to see a pic when it arrives Joanne.

I notice you changed your pic to your lovely logo. I love your swan theme, where are you getting the choccy swans from?

[tinkerbell 766]

Love your Choos and your labels - they are both soooo cute!!

Love the Choo's!! Beautiful! I love your labels too, if I was a guest, I would definitely appreciate the effort that goes into making something like that!

I love your history-it's very similar to ours. Our actual anniversary is in April but our VR is a year from December. Gorgeous shoes too!

My my lady you have been sooo busy!!!

Love love the Choos, really sexy shoes. Bet you feel great in them. Get some party feet in them, might help fight the pain!



So pleased that you like my TTD suggestion. I hope to have some honeymoon pics there with Randy. I love the hammock and beach shots that I have seen of other Disbrides.

I also plan on getting one of the etsy hangers. I love etsy! Would love to see a pic when it arrives Joanne.

I notice you changed your pic to your lovely logo. I love your swan theme, where are you getting the choccy swans from?

2nd time bride - Thank you so much!!

Disney 9.9.10 - Thanks, you know if I'm honest, designing the little labels etc is no effort for me. I really enjoy doing it and I am often to be found playing with things like that when I should be doing sensible things like washing and ironing :laundy:

Moxie Doll - Would love to hear your story!! Do you have a PJ yet? Enjoy your VR planning. I am having a ball with ours!! Glad you like the Choos!!

Claire sweetie - Thanks, the shoes are just heaven aren't they? I plan on getting all the gel things I can inserted in to them to help me see the whole night through in them!!
When the Etsy hanger arrives, I will post a piccie, I promise.
The sample chocolate swan arrived - it was beautiful and delicious (yup, we ate it!!), but unfortuately the wrong size. It was too small to use as centrepieces, and too big to use as individual favours. It was also hollow and , therefore would require very careful packing to ensure we got 15 of them out to Florida in one piece. :scared1: The chocolate was, however, divine and so we have decided to purchase truffles (which we intend to use as part of the favours) from the same company. It is a company called 'Special Edition Chocolate'. Here's the link. They are highly recommended!!
http://www.specialeditionchocolate.co.uk/
Yup you have been a great help in planning the TTD session!! We are very excited about it all!! It will be so much fun!!

[Chilly]

Your guests will feel very welcomed!

[tinkerbell 766]

Aww thanks Claire sweetie - I hope you have a great WDW trip. Speak to you when you get back!!

[jtanddolly]

I have decided to be completely anal about the whole thing and order small white boxes for any item that has original packaging which won't allow for one of my sticky labels to be attached!!! I think I am being too fussy, but I am a bit of a perfectionist about these things and I know my small amount of guests will appreciate my humble efforts!!!


If the boxes end up being too expensive and you still want to repackage some of the items. You could always put them in clear jewelry bags. They are very similar to ziploc bags...just a different shape. Then you could put your sticky labels on them. I'm not sure where you get them in the UK, but Hobby Lobby sells them in the US. They generally have about 20 in a package and are around $4.00.

[tinkerbell 766]

Thanks for the idea Dolly. We don't have a Hobby Lobby in the UK but we have something called Hobbycraft. I'll check it out!! :thumbsup2

[tinkerbell 766]

So, I need some honest advice girls!!
I have been increasingly thinking of having my shoes professionally dyed the same colour as DD's MOH dress.
I love the pictures of all the gorgeous brides and their colourful shoes and I really like the way they 'pop' out in the pictures. I think the coloured shoes would be particularly nice during the TTD session at the Poly (you know - the discarded shoes in the forefront and the soft focus couple in the background).
However, my reservations are as follows:-
I am not a young, youthful first time bride and I was aiming for the elegant, sophisticated look. Are we sure that coloured shoes ties in with this?
My colour scheme is quite muted - not the vibrant, beautiful fushias, oranges and deep blues that some of you girls have chosen as your colours, and I am not sure that the 'Spa' colour will 'pop' in the photos like some of the stunning shoes I have seen on these boards.
So, would I be better leaving well alone or do I have the shoes dyed?
Here is a reminder of the shoes and the colour

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/Scarlett-PL.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/1861-SPAA-dts.jpg

[brer rabbit 28]

Now then, what a quandry you are in! If it was my decision I would definately dye the shoes. But then again my wedding is a bit mental on the colour scheme so you may not want to take my word for it :lmao:

I don't think you should even worry about the age issue Joanne. I will be a 35 year old bride when I get married and I'm not letting that stop me from having a little colour fun! I think you should go for it. The lovely shade you have chosen will still pop against your outfit. I can picture the Randy shots now with your shoes left in colour whilst everything else is muted. Stunning.

Have we been planning and stalking photos too long??:rotfl2:

[brer rabbit 28]

Just went back and had another peak at your dress. I think the shoes will look great in that shade. Ok I'll stop now.

[Boston Disney Bride]

I'm a huge fan of colored shoes for brides!! My favorite part of my wedding attire was my pink shoes! Randy did a great job showcasing them. I say go for it! I don't think they will look distasteful at all and I think you'll be glad you did!

[tinkerbell 766]

Claire sweetie - Thank you. I can always rely on your advice!!! Please don't ever stop supplying it!! I have all these 'mutton dressed as lamb' fears, which I try to put out of my head. I tell myself that this is my final 'princess' moment, (I will then have to graduate to a Queen instead :lmao:) and I should have exactly what I want, but I still often second guess myself!!
Yes, we have spent too much time stalking photos, but what a great pastime!! I love these boards, and the nicest thing about them is making new friends (like yourself) by following them!!
I too, can see Randy's shots of the coloured shoes in my head!! How sad are we!!!

Boston Disney Bride - Thanks for your advice. I love love loved your shoes and the way they popped in your photos. Your TR and your gorgeous photos were one of the reasons I started to think about having the shoes dyed. I think, if you say they will look good in that colour, they surely will - you have so much style!!

Okay girls, lets go for it!!! I'll get the shoes dyed. I will wait until DD's dress is all here and delivered in case of any last minute hitches, and then go for it

[brer rabbit 28]

Aah thank you Joanne, you say such nice things:hug:. Can't wait to see the shoes:thumbsup2

It is so true, I have spent a ridiculous amount of time stalking bride photos, and now I can also look at work as our internet control has been dropped. If only they knew that I spend every quiet moment looking at wedding things and halloween ideas:rotfl:

[Goofy4Ever]

I say go for it!!! I love the pictures I see that the girls shoes pop!! I am not a heal kind of girl, so it may sound crazy, but I want to get either pink or orange addias sandels to wear after the ceremony. I plan on wearing white flip flops for the ceremony, but yet I am getting married on DCL, so my wedding is a bit less fancy :) Now that I see you Choos, I might get a pair for dinner the night before ;)

[tinkerbell 766]

Thanks for the advice Goofy4Ever - everybody seems to be saying go for it, so I think I probably will!!!
I think a pair of white flip-flops, followed by a pair of bright sandals, will be perfect for your cruise wedding. I don't think that a DCL wedding is any less fancy that one at WDW. I think they sound really intimate and special. I must admit, I was considering a DCL VR myself, but DMIL will not get on a cruise liner for love nor money. Hey, maybe that would be an excellent reason to have our VR on a cruise ship!!:scratchin Only joking, I love her to bits really!!;)
Gotta love Choos!! Go for it!!

[Goofy4Ever]

Thanks for the advice Goofy4Ever - everybody seems to be saying go for it, so I think I probably will!!!
I think a pair of white flip-flops, followed by a pair of bright sandals, will be perfect for your cruise wedding. I don't think that a DCL wedding is any less fancy that one at WDW. I think they sound really intimate and special. I must admit, I was considering a DCL VR myself, but DMIL will not get on a cruise liner for love nor money. Hey, maybe that would be an excellent reason to have our VR on a cruise ship!!:scratchin Only joking, I love her to bits really!!;)
Gotta love Choos!! Go for it!!

LOL...my future MIL is mad that we are doing it on the ship because she is afraid to fly or go on ships...oh well...we had to remind ourselves that it is our wedding! Hopefully this will get her to change her mind because I know how much it would mean to DF as well as me :)

[CinderelliT]

I loved, loved, loved my blue shoes! They were so much fun. I say go for it! Nobody will pay any attention to them if you are going the sophisticated route (really - you could have on clogs and no one would notice) but that pop of color is just enough to make people pay attention, and for some great pics.

[tinkerbell 766]

Thanks so much!! I have often admired your beautiful blue shoes. I have read your journals and have maybe posted on them too a couple of times, and I must say I thought everything was gorgeous. I know you had a few issues (particularly with the 'at home' reception), but the photos I have seen are stunning (love the balloons one!). I am also a great admirer of all the craft items you made for your VR. Looks like you take fabulous photos too!! Your talent is obviously boundless.
I have not had one piece of advice saying 'don't do it' so I guess it's a goer!!
Will keep you posted and thanks for following along.

[emilyqz]

Claire sweetie - Thank you. I can always rely on your advice!!! Please don't ever stop supplying it!! I have all these 'mutton dressed as lamb' fears, which I try to put out of my head. I tell myself that this is my final 'princess' moment, (I will then have to graduate to a Queen instead :lmao:) and I should have exactly what I want, but I still often second guess myself!!
Yes, we have spent too much time stalking photos, but what a great pastime!! I love these boards, and the nicest thing about them is making new friends (like yourself) by following them!!
I too, can see Randy's shots of the coloured shoes in my head!! How sad are we!!!

Boston Disney Bride - Thanks for your advice. I love love loved your shoes and the way they popped in your photos. Your TR and your gorgeous photos were one of the reasons I started to think about having the shoes dyed. I think, if you say they will look good in that colour, they surely will - you have so much style!!

Okay girls, lets go for it!!! I'll get the shoes dyed. I will wait until DD's dress is all here and delivered in case of any last minute hitches, and then go for it
I think you are going to look beautiful. You looked stunning in the shop and you will look stunning there too! xx

[tinkerbell 766]

Aww thank you Emily!!! (Emily is my DD and MOH)!!

[Belle2Be]

Alright, I'm caught up! I LOVE your DIY ideas, I've got a ton myself LOL, but I haven't started working on most of them yet (except the crayons!) Anyway, LOVE your PJ!

[tinkerbell 766]

Belle2Be - Thank you so much!!! I am eagarly following your plans along in your PJ too!!

[Chilly]

Just starting to catch up on everyones PJs and TRs I'm so behind.

Just a thought, what about getting 2 pairs of shoes, keep the white ones white and then have a coloured pair as well to change into?

[tinkerbell 766]

Claire sweetie - that's a very good idea and a good excuse to go shopping!!!:scratchin

[tinkerbell 766]

So here is my second newsletter which went out this week.
Dolly (bless you Dolly) designed me some stunning logos featuring swans, which I was going to use for the newsletter. However, in the end I decided to run with the logo I am using for the VR, just for continuity really!!
The newsletter seems a bit colourless, but I was determined not to give a hint of my colours to my guests until the official invites go out in February.
I also included a 'Dining pack' with information and menus about the places we intend to attempt to get ADR's at. I have only posted one menu so as not to bore you, but you get the idea!!
We managed (along with our guests) to secure free dining for the second five days at PORS, but we are going to add the DDP for our first five days at BLT. Our guests have a while in which to decide whether or not they wish to add the DDP too (it can be added up to 24 hours before check-in), however my poor guests onlu have a week or so to decide whether they want to join us for any/all of the TS meals as my ADR day is 1st November!!!:scared1:

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/newsletter1.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/newsletter2.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/newsletter3.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/newsletter4.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/newsletter5.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/newsletter6.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/TCG2.jpg

[Groom Mickey]

I do not know how I have not subscribed to your PJ yet. The only thing I can think of is how much you have completed and I am jealous.:goodvibes. Our ceremonies are around the same time and you are so much farther ahead. Everything is looking great and you are going to have a beautiful ceremony. Thank goodness for our wedding planner or our wedding would be an utter mess. You should stop by and you will be able to see the difference between an organized wedding (yours) and one not so organized (mine). You will be so glad of the extra effort you have put. I love your welcome bags by the way. I am subscribed as of today.

[tinkerbell 766]

Aww thank you sweetie - you know I have been following your PJ too and think that your wedding is going to be fabulous!! I am looking forward to having a nosey peek at it on the day!!

[brer rabbit 28]

I want to come to your ladies afternoon tea and wear a lovely dress and a hat!!

I love your newsletter. Very well thought out. I love that you didn't put you colours in just yet. Keep them in suspense!!

[tinkerbell 766]

Claire sweetie - I would love you to come!! Will you be in WDW then?

[brer rabbit 28]

No :(. But I really wish I was. I would stalk your VR :rotfl:

Too busy saving up for our wedding trip. It's proving very difficult at the moment as Chris lives in the here and now. He raided the wedding fund to buy tiles for the bathroom this week:headache:

[Belle2Be]

Love your Newsletter! I've been working on mine :/ Lots of work!

[tinkerbell 766]

No :(. But I really wish I was. I would stalk your VR :rotfl:

Too busy saving up for our wedding trip. It's proving very difficult at the moment as Chris lives in the here and now. He raided the wedding fund to buy tiles for the bathroom this week:headache:

Claire sweetie - Oh dear!! Men (bless them) just don't get it do they? Still at least you will have a great bathroom!!;)

[tinkerbell 766]

Love your Newsletter! I've been working on mine :/ Lots of work!

Thanks for the comments about the newsletter!!
Yup, they are tons of work and use tons of ink, but my small list of guests seem to love them and keep asking me when the next one is due, so I guess it's worth the effort!!

[smileycrissy]

Hi there! I saw you on Groom Mickey's thread and followed you over. I'm the other possible groupie for his wedding. :lmao:

As you've heard a million times, your logo is BEAUTIFUL! I love all your ideas, jewelry & designs. You are very talented. :)

I'm definitely subscribbing to your PJ. I'd love to do a Disney wedding but they seem so costly, even the escape ones. :( I'm curious about the S&W weddings and yours seems like the right one to follow. :)

Oh and I LOVE those Choo shoes. :thumbsup2

[tinkerbell 766]

Smileycrissy - Hello and welcome. I am always flattered when somebody new starts following my PJ!! Thank you for the sweet comments.
I hope we will be able to meet when we stalk Groom Mickey's wedding - wouldn't that be fun?
I must admit that the primary reason we switched from DFTW to the S&D was cost, but since I have made the switch, I haven't regretted it for a moment!! Karen, my planner at JustMarry is an angel, and responds to all my frantic e-mails and questions very quickly (not always the case with the DFTW planners, I understand) and very professionally. She has helped no end with choosing and booking vendors and is always ready with advice and information. She will stay with me right through the whole process and be there running the show on the actual day. I cannot recommend her highly enough!!
If you are around at WDW on the day of my VR, feel free to stop by and say hi!!
If I can answer any other questions about S&D weddings, feel free to ask!!
Glad you love the Choo's - I adore them and keep trying them on and parading round the bedroom in them!! How sad am I!!!

[Belle2Be]

When did you send out your first Newsletter?

[tinkerbell 766]

I sent out the first newsletter containing rough plans with the STDs at around a year out. This was mainly because my guests are all coming from the UK and I wanted to give them plenty of time to plan and save. I have managed to pay for 5 days accommodation for everyone with my DVC points, but knew that people needed to budget for flights and another week's lodging, plus food, passes etc. I thought it best to allow them plenty of time!! It has paid off as nearly everybody who was invited is joining us!!!:yay:

[Chilly]

Great newsletter!

[tinkerbell 766]

Claire sweetie - Thank you so much!!!

[jbmckenzie]

I just found your vr report and have thoroughly enjoyed reading all 12 pgs! You have accomplished so much! I love all of the labels you have made, and hope you don't mind if I steal a couple of your ideas for our family vacation next year. By the way I love love love your gown and shoes. Becky

[tinkerbell 766]

I just found your vr report and have thoroughly enjoyed reading all 12 pgs! You have accomplished so much! I love all of the labels you have made, and hope you don't mind if I steal a couple of your ideas for our family vacation next year. By the way I love love love your gown and shoes. Becky

Sweet Becky - Thank you for your very lovely comments!!! You steel away sweetie, and if I can help with anything at all, just let me know!! I'd be glad to help.

[tinkerbell 766]

So, a long overdue post!!:rolleyes:

Well, last week was very exciting as I had a dress fitting and I have to say that I am still as much in love with my dress as I ever was. I just didn't want to take it off!!! Because I am quite short (about 5ft 3 inches), I am having 3 inches taken off of the dress. I tried it on with my shoes, and with the three inches off, I think it will be perfect!! At the moment it needs no other alterations, but I need to keep my weight relatively stable until Feb and the next fitting (quite a job over the Christmas period :scared1:). Any minor alterations needed in Feb can be done in time, but I am hoping that none will be necessary.

We also ordered my daughter's dress. We completely changed our minds about her dress!!! She tried on the dress which we originally decided on (and the one I posted earlier in this PJ), but it looked awful on her!!!:sad2: So after trying on numerous dresses :headache: she tried this one

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/SPA-2.jpg

I must admit, I wouldn't have looked twice at it in a picture or even just on the hanger, but it looks so beautiful on her!!! It really suits her and she says she feels really glamorous in it!!! So we ordered it. It will take 12 weeks to arrive and can be altered to fit when it does. My daughter is desperately trying to shed some weight, but the boutique lady said that, if necessary, this dress can be taken down 3 dress sizes without losing the shape. I doubt that DD will lose that much before May ( maybe a couple of dress sizes if she really goes for it) so it should be fine!!!
In other dress news, I have bought a dress for the 'Welcome Dinner'. Below is a picture of it. Again, because I am quite short, it is not so short on me as it is on the model. It actually sits just below the knees, which I prefer anyway. I love the tassels which move beautifully and I intend to wear it with my gold Choos. What do you all think?
http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/103010393560_2.jpg

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/103010393560.jpg
I am on the look out for a teaparty dress and facinator, but haven't found th perfect one yet.

In other news, today is my first ADR day. I have to book ADRs in two packages as we have two different reservations (one checking in on 1st May and one checking in on 6th May). I fear that things may not be straighforward as many of the ADRs we want are for large groups!! Today I need to book dinner at the Turf Club Grill for 15 (2nd May), breakfast for 15 at O'Hana's (3rd May), afternoon tea at the Garden View Tearoom for 8 (3rd May) and dinner at the Maya Grill for 15 (5th May). I will be on the phone as soon as the lines open at 2.00pm our time. Wish me luck!!! Luckily the reception at Citrico's is being reserved directly with the team there, so that's one thing I don't have to worry about!!

[Chilly]

oooo pretty dresses - lots of luck with the ADRs!

Why is it 2pm? I thought they opened at 7am which was 11am here?

[tinkerbell 766]

Claire sweetie - So glad you like the dresses!! Yup you're right. I thought the dining reservations desk opened at 9.00am Florida time. I think I must be getting confused with Member services on the DVC side :crazy2:!!
Never mind, I phoned (albeit two hours late) and got all of the first round of ADRs as I wanted them (well, more or less). So far we have:-
Monday 2nd May - Dinner at Turf Club Grill at 6.20pm for 13 adults and 2 children (Welcome Dinner)
Tuesday 3rd May - Breakfast at O'Hana at 9.05am for 13 adults and children and afternoon tea atGarden View Tearoom at 2.00pm (tried for 3.00pm, but it was unavailable) for 7 ladies and 1 little princess
Thursday 5th May - Dinner at Maya Grill at 6.30pm for 13 adults and 2 children

I really wanted a bigger gap between breakfast and afternoon tea on the Tuesday, but figured that by the time we are all seated in the tearoom and have got ordered etc, it will be 2.30pm ish anyhow.

So first round of ADRs all booked :woohoo: Here's to the second round on Saturday (which my daughter may have to do as I am at work)

[tinkerbell 766]

Just wanted to say....... 6 months :woohoo::dance3::yay::woohoo::dance3::yay:

[Tinker Bell Fan]

Just wanted to say....... 6 months :woohoo::dance3::yay::woohoo::dance3::yay:

Love your PJ (and the dresses too!). We're just about a month ahead of your VR - ours in on April 13, 2011. I have so much to do!!! Only booked the officiant so far (but am working on booking Beaute Speciale) :)

I'll be reading for more inspiration!

[smileycrissy]

I love, love, love the Welcome dinner dress. It's so elegant and fun and will look absolutley gorgeous with your Choos.

So glad to hear you were able to make all your ADR's. I'd prefer the 2pm time for tea. For some reason at 3pm I always want to take a nap so I associate that time with nap time. :rotfl:

[disneemama]

Love the dresses!

[ericamcl]

I'm a little late to your PJ but am loving everything I have read - I especially love your logo!


DH and I JUST decided to do a 10 year VR (it will take place in 2013!) and I'm anxious to see how beautifully yours will turn out!

[tinkerbell 766]

Love your PJ (and the dresses too!). We're just about a month ahead of your VR - ours in on April 13, 2011. I have so much to do!!! Only booked the officiant so far (but am working on booking Beaute Speciale) :)

I'll be reading for more inspiration!

I love, love, love the Welcome dinner dress. It's so elegant and fun and will look absolutley gorgeous with your Choos.

So glad to hear you were able to make all your ADR's. I'd prefer the 2pm time for tea. For some reason at 3pm I always want to take a nap so I associate that time with nap time. :rotfl:

Love the dresses!

I'm a little late to your PJ but am loving everything I have read - I especially love your logo!


DH and I JUST decided to do a 10 year VR (it will take place in 2013!) and I'm anxious to see how beautifully yours will turn out!

Thank you all so much girls - it's nice to know some people are still following along!!

Tinker Bell Fan - It's lovely that your VR is just a bit before mine, we can follow each other's plans. Us VR brides must stick together:thumbsup2 Good luck with booking BS.

smileycrissy - Thanks, I am very pleased with the 'Welcome dinner dress!! Now I parade around the bedroom in that and the Choos instead of just the Choos!! I am so sad!!!
You know, I think the slightly earlier tea-time may work out for the best after all. We may have a 'girlie' night out at JellyRolls in the evening, so it may be better to rest up for a bit late afternoon. The boys are having a night out after the 'Welcome Dinner' as I told DH he was absolutely NOT going out on the booze the night before the VR. I am sure us girls will be fine and much more sensible!!:rolleyes1

disneemama - Thank you - I love them!!!

ericamcl - Lovely to have you along for the ride!! Thanks for your sweet comments. I have replied to your PM. Let me know if I can help with anything.

[tinkerbell 766]

Well we have all our ADRs now, all apart from Raglan Road for which I need to phone the restaurant directly. I will tackle this tomorrow.
So the second round is:-
Friday 6th May - Raglan Road (hopefully) time tbd
Saturday 7th May - Party is splitting and 6 will eat at Sanaa and 9 will eat at 1900 Park Fare at 5.15pm and 5.35pm respectively
Sunday 8th May - Coral Reef at 5.55pm
Monday 9th May - Chefs de France at 6.00pm
Tuesday 10th May - Captain's Grill at 5.20pm

It is such a relief to have them all sorted, especially as we are a big group and for the most part are eating together every night!!!

I also have received an e-mail from the team at Citricos saying that the reception dinner is all booked and sorted too. Another relief!!

So with the reception dinner all ready to go, my thoughts have turned to favours. I have decided on these little favour boxes from an Etsy seller. Mine will be white

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/il_430xN_169796183.jpg

I intend to close them with spa coloured ribbon

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/jade_satin.jpg

Here is an example of the tags I will attach to the favour boxes which will also act as placecards

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/favourtags2.jpg

I have purchased these socks as favours for all the men. Donald is DH's favourite and he will be wearing a pair of these under his suit on the big day, so I figured it would be nice for all the men to receive a pair too!!

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/420788938911.jpg

The ladies will all receive a bangle like I am wearing on the day. A reminder..

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/279975541_o.jpg

Also in the favour box (for men and ladies) will be a small silver truffle box containing two chocolate truffles.

All three children will have a $20.00 Disney gift card in their favour box so they can choose their own gift.

[brer rabbit 28]

Just caught up on all your latest additions. I've been a bit AWOL from the Dis in my frantic attempts to tone up at the gym! (chanting "I will not be a fat bride" lol)

I love your tassled dress. For your tea party dress, have you had a look at Vivienne of Holloway? I'm not sure if they are the kind of thing you're after but it's worth a look.

So glad you got all your ADR's. It's one of the things I'm nervous about as I can't book anything yet.

Oh and let me just add....:cool1::banana::cool1::banana::cool1: 6 MONTHS DANCE!!!!!

[tinkerbell 766]

Claire sweetie - I must admit I had been wondering where you were!!! You are obviously working very hard and will no way be a fat bride!!! You will be a beautiful bride!!! Yes I have looked at Vivienne's and love quite a few of her dresses. I need to steer away from halter necks - they just don't look good on me at all!!
Thanks for joining in on the six month dance!!!

[smileycrissy]

I love Jellyrolls! You are going to have a blast there! Have you been there before? If not I would suggest getting there about 7:30/8, before the guys start performing. That way when they begin, they'll get to know you and will single you out throughout the night for various antics. You'll love it!!

I love the gift boxes, they are so pretty. And let me tell you, everytime I see you logo I just sit here and go 'Oh, its so pretty!' LOL.

[tinkerbell 766]

You know Crissy you are always so sweet to me!! I really hope we can meet up and spy on James wedding!!!
Thanks for the advice on Jellyrolls. I haven't been there before and I am really looking forward to it!!

[tinkerbell 766]

So I now have Raglan Road booked for the 6th May at 6.00pm. Yay this is the last of the actual ADRs so I am happy to report they are all done now!!:woohoo:
That is absolutely everything booked now, flights, accomodation, ADRs, park passes, VR package, flowers, cake, harpist, officiant, limousine, hair and make-up, gown steaming, tea-party, welcome dinner and trash the dress session!!!:goodvibes The only things left are the things I can't book. like the boys 'Grub 'n' Golf', as neither The Fountain at the Dolphin, nor the Fantasia Gardens, accept bookings, so they just turn up on the day!!

My obsession for today has been thinking about the 'First Look' photos with Randy. As we are staying at BLT, I was thinking that it would be nice to have this at the 'Top of the World' lounge. Well, actually on the patio outside the lounge overlooking the MK. I have concerns, though, about the height of the wall on the patio and whether it will be too high to actually see any of the MK over the top. If it is too high, we would just end up with pictures of us in front of a concrete wall. Not the look I had in mind:rolleyes: I have e-mailed Randy for his advice and I am also considering the walkway between the Contemporary and BLT, which overlooks MK but is far more public. I am awaiting the advice of Randy and our amazing Carrie. We'll have to see....

I posted this in another thread and forgot I had not posted it here. This is the parasol I hope to have for walking to and from the Swan and Boardwalk (I hope it will be sunny!!) and as a 'prop' for some of the outdoor photos. My DD is buying it for me for Christmas (bless her:lovestruc). I figured it would look very pretty in my bedroom after the VR. My cottage is very old (300 years old in parts) and it will fit in very nicely!!

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/Giselle_wedding_umbrella.jpg

[tinkerbell 766]

I have been in contact with a seller on Etsy (I :lovestruc Etsy) about some rhinestone shirt transfers. Here is an example of her lovely work

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/il_570xN_180494534.jpg

She has made me two mock-ups.
The first is to go on the back of a cotton shirt which I intend to wear with leggings whilst I am getting ready with Patricia LeJeune on the morning of the VR. Since she will be attempting to make me into a beautiful princess:(she will have to be a miracle worker!!), the back of my shirt will have this rhinestone saying on it

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/get_convo_image.jpg

I think it will add a bit of fun to the getting ready photos!!!

The other one I have ordered is this one

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/re-established.jpg

Since it is a vow renewal, I couldn't have 'Mrs Pridmore established....' as I was established as Mrs Pridmore over 10 years ago. So, I figured my transfer should say 'Re-established'. Remember, that in the UK our numeric dates put the date first followed by the month, so to my British guests and I, my transfer actually says 4th May 2011. I intend to iron it on to a t-shirt to wear at the morning after breakfast......
Okay, so after all my proud boasting about having everything booked, I just realized that the morning after breakfast is not yet finalized :blush: We are hoping to host this breakfast at 'Fresh Mediterranean Market' at the Dolphin. My planner is sorting this out for me and it should be all booked in the next few days. How embarassing!!!

[Belle2Be]

Love the transfers, how fun!!

[ericamcl]

I love the shirt idea!

I also love your favors - I may have to go spend some money on Etsy!!

It's all shaping up beautifully!;)

[tinkerbell 766]

Love the transfers, how fun!!

I love the shirt idea!

I also love your favors - I may have to go spend some money on Etsy!!

It's all shaping up beautifully!;)

Thanks girls!!
It's nice to know at least two people are following along!!! Sometimes it seems as though I am talking to myself....

[Tinker Bell Fan]

Thanks girls!!
It's nice to know at least two people are following along!!! Sometimes it seems as though I am talking to myself....

Make that 3! :) I know what you mean but I look at as keeping me motivated and organized (at least a little).

Great ideas by the way for the shirts - I LOVE them!

[tinkerbell 766]

Thanks Hun!!! I really cannot complain, I am terribly guilty of reading other people's PJs and not commenting!!! I am happy that you are following along :hug:

[CityGirlLost]

Cute transfers! Who is the etsy seller?

[tinkerbell 766]

Here she is!!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/PeaceLoveRhinestones

[smileycrissy]

Thanks girls!!
It's nice to know at least two people are following along!!! Sometimes it seems as though I am talking to myself....

I'm following too!!! :rotfl: See, you had more than you thought. And you know if I am free on the day of your vow renewal, I'll come over and take a peek. I may just have to be 'sick' that week to check out yours and Groom Mickey's weddings. :rolleyes1:sick:

I love the transfers, especially the Cinderella one. I keep thinking of selling stuff on Etsy but it just seems like there are some many sellers alredy on there.

[tinkerbell 766]

OOh what would you sell - do tell!!!

[Sarah84]

Love the transfers, espcially the 'move over Cinderella' one - cute idea :)

[disneemama]

Thank you for posting the link for the transfers. Tinkerbell I'm still following and my DD finally ordered her dress. Its a Paloma Blanca and is so beautiful. All your plans are amazing.

[tinkerbell 766]

Sarah84 - Thank you!! i think they will add a touch of fun too!!
disneemama - I would love to see a photo of the dress - you must be so excited!!

[Goofy4Ever]

Hi Joanne...it looks like things are coming together nicely. I love the iron on transfers. I am going to attempt to make these on my own..otherwise esty here I come.

Congrats on the 6 month mark...it will be here before you know it...

[disneemama]

Joanne really can't post pics, sent you a PM. I'm leaving Dec 2 to 6th. for a little Christmas trip, going to GF for dinner hopefully I will spot a Disneybride.
You must be thee most organized person, all the details of your VR are amazing.

[tinkerbell 766]

Goofy4Ever - I thought about making them too but decided that for the price the Etsy seller was charging, I would be hard pressed to buy the materials alone much cheaper. I know I would get annoyed with myself if they were not quite right and I decided I don't have the patience!!! Good luck with yours!! I would love to see a picture when they are finished!! The time seems to be going very quickly and although I can't wait, I still have so much to do!!
disneemama - Sent a PM back. I looked at the dress on the website and it is stunning. Your daughter is obviously a very stylish lady!! Thank you for your kind words about my plans!! I sometimes don't feel organized (my gorgeous and patient hubby sometimes says I have OCD!!), and panic myself with all there is still to do!!!.....take a deep breath

[brer rabbit 28]

Still here too Joanne :flower3:. I'm sure lota of people are reading along but don't always post. I'm a little guilty of doing that too:rolleyes1

I love your transfers. Your Cinderella one is possibly another of your wonderful ideas I might be filtching from you! I was thinking of having shoe transfers with the date on as well so i might be looking into this seller. Thank the stars for etsy!!!

I can't update much on my pj at the moment. I'm having flight issues with our agent at the minute as I am actually able to book direct with Virgin for less than the agent is quoting me - and they apparently say they can beat any quote! Anyway, looking forward to reading more of your plans, although you can't have much more to plan now?

[amyy]

You are so well organized!! I am impressed have you have every detail already taken care of. Love the Mickey bracelets. Where did you find them? thanks

[tinkerbell 766]

Claire sweetie - Hooray for a message from you. I missed you!!!
Pinch any of my ideas you want - I would be honoured!!
Sorry you are having issues with you TA. I must admit I tend to book my flights direct with Virgin. The only thing with that is that if you book with Virgin Atlantic, you have to pay the whole amount up front!! Oh well, what are credit cards for anyhow!!!:rolleyes1
You would be surprised how much planning there is still to do!! I haven't stated planning the actual ceremony yet and e-mailing Rev Tim for sample ceremonies is on my 'to do' list this week. I also need to start thinking of music for the harpist!!
I need to e-mail Patricia Le-Jeune to see if she can fit in some extra people for hair-dos on the day. I originally booked just for myself and now 4 others (DD, Mums x 2 and a friend) want their hair done too :scared1: I hope she can fit them in. They only want blowdrys and not up-dos or make-up so maybe she can work it. If not the others will have to re-think. I am keeping Patricia whatever;)

Amyy - thank you so much for the kind comments. You know sometimes I don't feel very organized and start panicing at all the stuff still left to do!!! I know I have an awful lot of printing to do such as kid's autograph books and the little information passports for the welcome bags - must get to it!!!
You know the little Mickey bangles are so cheap and are so much prettier in real life than in the picture. They really sparkle!! Here is the link. The seller is excellent and very quick

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/DISNEY-MICKEY-MOUSE-BANGLE-BRACELET-w-SWAROVSKI-CRYSTAL-/320464617814?pt=UK_Jewellery_Watches_CostumeJewell ery_CA&hash=item4a9d2e0156

[amyy]

Thanks for the link.

You must have never read my PJ :) At 3 weeks out, sometimes even 2 I was redoing my cake, adding items to the dessert party. Even contemplating changing the wedding location! I didn't do the ceremony until about 3 weeks out too :) It all seem to come together best under pressure :rotfl2:

[tinkerbell 766]

Oh I definately read your PJ and remember your trials well!! However, through all of it, you always seemed remarkably in control!!!

[amyy]

Oh I definately read your PJ and remember your trials well!! However, through all of it, you always seemed remarkably in control!!!

Thanks for the compliment. The more I think about it the more it is coming back to me. Especially the stress with my dress and the seamstress. I never quite knew who might have been reading along. PJ are a great way to keep it all together. It is great to now live vicariously through the rest of you :)

[tinkerbell 766]

Ha I remember the seamstress story now!!!
I agree - I am terribly guilty of reading people's PJ/TRs and not commenting so most of them probably don't know I follow along!!
These PJs are a brilliant way of keeping all your thoughts in one place. I sometimes think mine probably bores people to death, but it helps me to stay sane and organizes my thoughts!!

[smileycrissy]

Ha I remember the seamstress story now!!!
I agree - I am terribly guilty of reading people's PJ/TRs and not commenting so most of them probably don't know I follow along!!
These PJs are a brilliant way of keeping all your thoughts in one place. I sometimes think mine probably bores people to death, but it helps me to stay sane and organizes my thoughts!!

You are not boring us at all!!!! You've had so many crafty & beautiful ideas. :cheer2: I enjoy reading whether its about what your going to eat or what new cute item you found. :hug:

[Jules~Marie]

You are not boring us at all!!!! You've had so many crafty & beautiful ideas. :cheer2: I enjoy reading whether its about what your going to eat or what new cute item you found. :hug:

I second this statement! As smileycrissy knows, I'm always wondering if anyone's following along with my pj! :rotfl: I think everyone feels like they might be boring the readers, but the truth is, we're all here because we love reading about Disney and weddings, so you really can't go wrong here. I do slack on the commenting on others pj's, but I've been following you all along and I always admire everything you're doing! You have beautiful taste and are so talented! I think I'm a little intimidated and that's why I don't comment as much! :rotfl2: I look forward to reading more! :goodvibes

[brer rabbit 28]

I am seriously considering booking with VA direct and cancelling with the TA. We are with Charter travel at the mo on pre booking so luckily we aren't commited until the final price is in at the end of this week. It's tough having to pay it all in one go but at least they cannot then hike up the price at a later date. i read about a few people who this has happened to recently :sad2:

Hopefully Patricia can fit in you other people, but if not I'm sure they could sort themselves out. Maybe pop to a local salon if it's just for a blow dry.

[Chilly]

You have the best ideas!

At Raglan Rd I suggest the "Sod the Stew" its so yummy.

[tinkerbell 766]

You are not boring us at all!!!! You've had so many crafty & beautiful ideas. :cheer2: I enjoy reading whether its about what your going to eat or what new cute item you found. :hug:

I second this statement! As smileycrissy knows, I'm always wondering if anyone's following along with my pj! :rotfl: I think everyone feels like they might be boring the readers, but the truth is, we're all here because we love reading about Disney and weddings, so you really can't go wrong here. I do slack on the commenting on others pj's, but I've been following you all along and I always admire everything you're doing! You have beautiful taste and are so talented! I think I'm a little intimidated and that's why I don't comment as much! :rotfl2: I look forward to reading more! :goodvibes

I am seriously considering booking with VA direct and cancelling with the TA. We are with Charter travel at the mo on pre booking so luckily we aren't commited until the final price is in at the end of this week. It's tough having to pay it all in one go but at least they cannot then hike up the price at a later date. i read about a few people who this has happened to recently :sad2:

Hopefully Patricia can fit in you other people, but if not I'm sure they could sort themselves out. Maybe pop to a local salon if it's just for a blow dry.

You have the best ideas!

At Raglan Rd I suggest the "Sod the Stew" its so yummy.

Aww girls you are so wonderful!!!

Crissy - thank you. I can always rely on you for a lovely comment!!

Jules-Marie - Please don't be intimidated!! I have been following your PJ and I think you are so well organized and will have the most beautiful wedding!! Keep up the good work!!

Claire sweetie (number 1) - Humm sounds like it might be less hassle to cut your losses and book directly with VA. Keep me posted.

Claire sweetie (number 2) - Thanks hun!! I think DH has already decided he likes the sound of 'Sod the Stew' and the Guiness too, of course :goodvibes

[brer rabbit 28]

Sod the stew lol. That sounds great! Think we might be paying a visit there too - especially for a Guiness:drinking1:drinking1

[Chilly]

You can see a photo of the stew on day 3 of my new TR (link below).

[tinkerbell 766]

Oh dear Claire sweetie (number 2), your TR looks far too interesting to skip over!!! I will just have to read it all now!! It's great that you met up with Meryl and Lori!! You look like you had a really great time!!

[tinkerbell 766]

So today I achieved a few things
Firstly, I e-mailed Rev Tim Herring requesting some sample VR ceremonies. He replied that he doesn't have sample ceremonies, as he writes a ceremony for each couple individually. I posted a thread about this, as I was a little concerned about this and also because he seems to have slightly mixed reviews here on our boards. Some brides seem to love him, whilst others found him difficult. To cut a long story short, I have decided to trust him to compose our ceremony and will ask him to add in a couple of things that we want to say, and let him do the rest. I won't be able to meet with him beforehand, and he has been lovely in e-mails, so I have to hope all goes well for us.
I also e-mailed Patricia LeJeune regarding adding in extra hairdos for guests and a change in the time I need to be ready on the day. Randy Chapman wants me ready for 1.00pm and my contract with Patricia says 2.00pm. I was prepared for a wait before receiving a reply (as they don't always reply quickly - they are very busy), but I got a reply a couple of hours later, saying that they could fit in my guests and change the time!! :woohoo: another thing sorted!!!
Some of you may have seen me post this on a thread on the main board - if so, I apologize for repeating myself. I have decided not to run with the original birdcage veil idea. I tried a few on a couple of weeks back, and felt that although they looked beautiful, they were not the most hassle-free things to wear!! I felt I would be worried about it all day (was it positioned correctly? Would it block my face in photos? etc), so I binned the idea. Instead, I have ordered this hairband from an Etsy seller. Mine will be set on white ribbon

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/il_570xN_192605186.jpg

Now to figure out what to do with my hair!! I know I want a soft up-do, but that's about all I know. Oh well, I will continue to troll through hairstyle pictures on Google images, I guess!!!

I also ordered these from Ebay. I thought these would be great for my guests for the champagne and cake reception at the Swan, and then afterwards at Mizners. Hopefully, it will save everybody getting their glasses mixed up. Mine will have glass beads in a turquoise colour to fit in with the colour scheme

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Vow%20Renewal/ByTgdjgWkKGrHqQOKkYEwP0DegrIBMRJplSPIQ_12.jpg

Today I sorted out a reading for DD to read at the ceremony. I am sure this book is familiar to my friends from the USA, but not, I think, so familiar to us Brits. I just love this passage and think it is perfect for a ceremony dedicated to celebrating enduring love. Here is what Emily will read:-

This reading is an excerpt from ‘The Velveteen Rabbit’
‘The Velveteen Rabbit’ is a children's novel written by Margery Williams, and first published in 1922. It chronicles the story of a stuffed rabbit and his quest to become ‘real’ through the love of his owner. The poor little rabbit is rather intimidated by the expensive and mechanical toys, who fancy themselves as ‘real’, and seeks the friendship and advice of the Skin Horse, an old and respected toy.


"What is REAL?" asked the Rabbit one day, when they were lying side by side near the nursery fender, before Nana came to tidy the room. "Does it mean having things that buzz inside you and a stick-out handle?"

"Real isn't how you are made," said the Skin Horse. "It's a thing that happens to you. When somebody loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but really loves you, then you become Real."

"Does it hurt?" asked the Rabbit.

"Sometimes," said the Skin Horse, for he was always truthful. "When you are Real you don't mind being hurt."

"Does it happen all at once, like being wound up," he asked, "or bit by bit?"

"It doesn't happen all at once," said the Skin Horse. "You become. It takes a long time. That's why it doesn't happen often to people who break easily, or have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get all loose in the joints and very shabby. But these things don't matter at all, because once you are Real you can't be ugly, except to people who don't understand."
"I suppose you are real?" said the Rabbit. And then he wished he had not said it, for he thought the Skin Horse might be sensitive. But the Skin Horse only smiled
"The Boy's Uncle made me Real," he said. "That was a great many years ago; but once you are Real you can't become unreal again. It lasts for always."

[smileycrissy]

Aw Joanne, I love how you think!!!!:thumbsup2

That excerpt is beautiful. I was getting ready to comment on something else when I saw you had a new post. I'm glad I held off. I think hearing that at your vow renewal will make everyone cry. :)

I love the headband! :love: Boy, I better get to selling my stuff on Etsy, I hadn't realized how much people were searching it for stuff. LOL.

So glad to hear you were able to make the time change and additions for Patricia. I wish it was May already so I could take that sneak peak at your wedding. :)

[tinkerbell 766]

Do you know Chrissy, if you could swing it, I would love you to be there. I would so honoured to meet you!! Thank you for your lovely comments!!

[Jules~Marie]

I love the passage! It's very beautiful and perfect for your VR.

Also, I love the headband. Do you mind telling me who you purchased it from?

[tinkerbell 766]

I love the passage! It's very beautiful and perfect for your VR.

Also, I love the headband. Do you mind telling me who you purchased it from?
Glad you like the reading!!!
Here is the link for the headband. I haven't received it yet (it is coming from Canada) but so far the seller has been great and messaged me the day after I ordered it to say it was all posted!!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/61925507/sale-bridal-headband-rhinestone-crystal

[Jules~Marie]

Thank you so much! :goodvibes

[Chilly]

Ooo lovely headband, I think I looked at every hair style picture on Google, in the end I used 3 photos to show Ana what I wanted.

Great idea for a reading.

[smileycrissy]

Do you know Chrissy, if you could swing it, I would love you to be there. I would so honoured to meet you!! Thank you for your lovely comments!!


I would be honored to meet you too. :hug:

[quandrea]

Glad you like the reading!!!
Here is the link for the headband. I haven't received it yet (it is coming from Canada) but so far the seller has been great and messaged me the day after I ordered it to say it was all posted!!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/61925507/sale-bridal-headband-rhinestone-crystal

I am loving this thread. I am a mom to three: dd 6, and twins, dd 1 and ds 1. Life is pretty crazy here sometimes and reading this thread is a bit of an escape. I love all your ideas. I wanted to do a vow renewal at Disney but it cost too much. Perhaps the Swan is a good alternative. I love all your ideas and attention to detail. Congratulations! I will be following along. What is and etsy seller?

[brer rabbit 28]

Oh Joanne I am filling up here after reading your passage. It's absolutely beautiful and will be so perfect for your vr.

I adore your choice of headband, I agree that it will be less troublesome than a birdcage veil. I'm looking forward to seeing a picture of you wearing it!

[tinkerbell 766]

Thank you so much! :goodvibes

Ooo lovely headband, I think I looked at every hair style picture on Google, in the end I used 3 photos to show Ana what I wanted.

Great idea for a reading.

I would be honored to meet you too. :hug:

I am loving this thread. I am a mom to three: dd 6, and twins, dd 1 and ds 1. Life is pretty crazy here sometimes and reading this thread is a bit of an escape. I love all your ideas. I wanted to do a vow renewal at Disney but it cost too much. Perhaps the Swan is a good alternative. I love all your ideas and attention to detail. Congratulations! I will be following along. What is and etsy seller?

Oh Joanne I am filling up here after reading your passage. It's absolutely beautiful and will be so perfect for your vr.

I adore your choice of headband, I agree that it will be less troublesome than a birdcage veil. I'm looking forward to seeing a picture of you wearing it!

Jules~Marie - You're welcome sweetie!!

Claire sweetie (number 2) - I think I will end up with a whole portfolio of pictures to show Patricia and then end up just taking her advice anyway!!
Glad you like the hairband and the reading!!

smileycrissy - Bless you sweetie!!

quandrea - I hear you!! Life becomes hectic here too!! Balancing a full time job (with very odd shift patterns) and a family, is tricky but rewarding. Planning our VR has totally become my way to relax. I haven't a clue what I will do once it's over!!
I really think you should look in to the Swan for your VR. It has most of the benefits of a DFTW VR for about half the cost!! If I can help in any way or answer your questions, don't hesitate to ask!!
I am honoured that you will be following along.
Etsy is an online marketplace for handmade and crafty items. It is utterly brilliant and very adictive (you have been warned!!) Here is the link

http://www.etsy.com/

Claire sweetie (nunber 1) - I am so glad you like the reading. As soon as I read it, I knew it was perfect for us. Probably because we are both old, shabby and loose-jointed but very well-loved and definately 'real' :rotfl:
I can't wait to wear the headband. It is so pretty and I agree wil be far less hassle than a birdcage veil!!

[chaoscent]

Love your piece from the V Rabbit. Made me cry. :goodvibes
Penny:hippie:

[tinkerbell 766]

Penny!! So good to hear from you!!!:hug: Glad you like the reading. It's perfect isn't it?
How are things over on the 'Creative DISigns' board. I do pop over every now and again to see how all you talented guys are getting along!!
I hope to get a bit of humble DISigning done again once I am done with my VR. I have missed you guys and dabbling in DISigns, but planning this VR is taking a lot of my spare time. I have had Dolly and Mel (bababear) drop in at times, so it's good to hear from another old friend. Give my love to all on the CD board - I'll see you all soon

[jtanddolly]

I LOVE LOVE LOVE the Velveteen Rabbit! It was one of the first books I bought my little boy.

Also, had you thought about asking the esty seller if they could hide a mickey in your headband? Since they make it...it might be possible. Just an idea. I'm hoping you didn't mention that and I just missed it.

[tinkerbell 766]

Hi Dolly
No, unfortuately, I didn't think of that!!!:sad2:
I had a message just yesterday to say it was on it's way from Canada, so I guess it's too late now!! Oh well, it's still really pretty.
Glad you like the reading - it seems it holds happy memories for you!!

[smileycrissy]

Hi Dolly
No, unfortuately, I didn't think of that!!!:sad2:
I had a message just yesterday to say it was on it's way from Canada, so I guess it's too late now!! Oh well, it's still really pretty.
Glad you like the reading - it seems it holds happy memories for you!!

Maybe you can try to add the hidden mickey on your own. :)

[tinkerbell 766]

Ohh Crissy I am absolutely useless with a needle and thread but I intend to get a hot-fix crystal tool thingy soon so maybe, using that, I may be able to add it in somewhere :idea:

[smileycrissy]

Knock, knock. Just checking on you, I haven't seen you on for a bit so I just wanted to make sure everything was ok on your side of the globe. :)

[tinkerbell 766]

Sweet Crissy - Thank you so much for making sure things are okay here. They sure are!!! Although it is very cold, and there are 2 - 3 inches of snow on the ground - yuk!!!! It is very early in the year for such a large amount of snow, so I hope we are not in for yet another hard winter. We are, like everybody else into a busy time at DS's school. Plays, and trips to the pantomime, and parties and outings - it's a hard life in primary school!!
Haven't posted as I have nothing exciting to say right now. I will, however, be posting a picture of my dress hanger tonight as it arrived yesterday and I think it is lovely. I took the photo on DH's mobile and , of course, he has gone off to work with it this morning. Still waiting for the head-band to arrive from Canada, so stay tuned!!!

[tinkerbell 766]

Oops double post!!!

[smileycrissy]

Snow!!! I love snow. Its one of the things I will miss the most (other than family) about being up north in the States. Make sure you take pics of the snow. :)

[tinkerbell 766]

So sorry about the lack of hanger pictures!! We are having issues getting the pictures off of the phone and on to the computer!!! Agh it is so frustrating!! :badpc:
Here, however, are some photos to show you how much of the horrid white stuff we have had!!

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Playing/149970_455047856052_587321052_6131217_7208826_n.jp g

http://i510.photobucket.com/albums/s349/tinkerbell766/Playing/149845_455047721052_587321052_6131211_6496731_n.jp g