Courtenay and Brian's 10-14-12 Wishes Wedding WP and ADH

[CourtenayB]

Your E - Pics are so beautiful! And what a good deal! See what you think about our deal...

We partly went for our photographer because one of them was english! and we fell in love with them when we met!

2 photographers, (6.5) hours of coverage, online viewing and ordering for 90 days after the wedding, all printed, 4x6 proofs presented
in a memory box, high resolution DVD of Images, 30 page, 11x14 flush mount album with your choice of cover, (2) duplicate parent books (magazine style,
8x10). Client to receive prints and high resolution DVD prior to going back to England on June 16 ' •

They are cutting the printing time for us in half so we can take them back to the UK with us! Thats all for $5639.17 (LOL i think the .17 is funny) I think they will be worth the money! But in pounds... thats... about... 3500 something?! And were not having a videographer our friend is doing one for us! hehe lol

BTW... How did you get on with denise!? LOVE LOVE LOVE HER!!!!

Hi Fay! Thanks so much! I am pleased with Callie, she is just too fun and sweet and gives us so much for the price. We also get two photographers- she brings another one which she works with. And we get unlimited access to our proofs which is a plus.

Your deal is FAB! Just the fact that they are cutting the printing time in half is worth it. I think pretty much anyone can be the videographer, as long as they tape the important parts I am good to go.

Denise is an absolute doll! We chatted a bit today around noon and she is going to be sending some proofs after the first of January. Her price is a little higher than I would have hoped- you mentioned your was around $500 but she is talking about $700. I will see if we can't bring that down some. How long did it take for you to actually find an invitation that you liked and choose your final choice?

I can't thank you enough for suggesting Denise!

First of all, you're getting an incredible deal! That's amazing!!

Your pictures are gorgeous!!You both look great and very happy. The one of you hanging upside down is adorable! Such great shots!

Thanks hun! We had a really fun time. It probably been the best part of the engagement lol...everything else really wears you out.

 

[Fay]

OMG... It took us forever to find an invitation design that we both liked... originally we were contacting people from the UK... but they were all AWFUL! Over here we contacted about 5 different people! There designs were soooo nothing we even mentioned - colours were wrong? theme?!

Then I found ETSY... I began trawling the site! (Such fun) I found a few other people and asked for samples of their designs... but they were not right either! lol

Then I found denise's website! Contacted her and she listened to our ideas, made cool suggestions, an then created 3 beautiful samples! and we chose from that. Made a few tweaks here and there and then WE WERE DONE!

She will be great for you too! Let me know your ideas on what your creating?

MWAH

XXX

 

[ladyemz]

Lovely e-pics Courtenay, love the one of you upside down! Looks like you guys had lots of fun posing for them

Fab price with the photographer!!!!

We have booked STVS for our videographer, pretty important to us as we are only havign 28 guests, we are paying $1600 for full day coverage.HTH

 

[CourtenayB]

Lovely e-pics Courtenay, love the one of you upside down! Looks like you guys had lots of fun posing for them

Fab price with the photographer!!!!

We have booked STVS for our videographer, pretty important to us as we are only havign 28 guests, we are paying $1600 for full day coverage.HTH

Holy cow! That is a wonderful deal! I can't blame you, it's important to catch those memories. I am actually checking out STVS now b/c you mentioned them!

Thanks for the tip!

 

[Ash8716]

I love your engagement photos!!! They came out great, looks like you guys had fun. You are getting a great deal, that is so awesome!

 

[CourtenayB]

Hi everyone! I hope you all had a great weekend and are gearing up for the holidays ahead. The DF and I will be heading down to see my parents this week to celebrate Christmas. My brother and his wife and two boys will be there so we are all very exicted. It is the first Christmas that we will all be together since my brother's children were born (my little adorable nephews). I have stalled a bit on the planning- we are now 10 months away and I think I have done everything but the Save The Dates (I just can't call them STDs lol).

The rest of this post is a bit whiney so I apologize now.

I received an email last night from Randy Chapman (what a sweetie). He was asking if we needed a photographer b/c he and STVS have a package deal- STVS is a videographer I have been looking at for our wedding video. I have to say I am VERY sad that I won't get to work with Randy. He and STVS video have a package going to include video and photos for full day wedding coverage and it is $85 more than what I am paying for just our phtographer. This makes me sad. Especially because it's Randy Chapman. I think we are going to end up using STVS for a 3 hour video package but I am not sure. My dad said that that sounds expensive, and here I am thinking it's cheap (it's $525 for 3 hours). I don't know. What do you guys think? Any suggestions on videographers? This is what I get for rushing into booking everything. I thought THE Randy Chapman was going to be much more expensive- guess I should have looking into it further. Oh well, our girl is great and I know she will do a good job.

On another note. The DFs mom is driving me a bit nuts. She is so judgemental in a very sneaky way...it's like nothing I do is mature enough- the whole Disney thing is too childish for her and she just doesn't get it. I showed her our brochures and she just looked at them with this horrid look on her face and said "Well they are very Disney". And that was it...she went back to surfing the internet. Our style are very different but come on, just have fun with it and be nice.

Anyway, she just upsets me, as in-laws tend to do. I have tried to include her b/c I know it means a lot to Brian but she just doesn't seem to care and I am tired of feeling like it means nothing to her. I want people to be supportive and happy and to help, not criticize and act like they know better. I am beginning to see how things turn ugly lol.... no wonder we all come here to vent.

Alright, I am done being a grumpy pants. I hope you all have a great day and I will be back later.

Court

 

[Fay]

Hey COURTNEY,

I think you got a GOOD deal there with the $525 option. However, if you are not completely happy with your choice, why don't you change? Im sure they would understand? You would have a cooling off period too though for your deposit? (I hope I have made proper sense of the below post) lol Sorry If I have got the wrong end of the stick! lol (Im not blonde... but sometimes I do wonder!!!)

And... its sooo good to rant on here sometimes! She does sound a bit down on the whole disney thing... I mean whats not to like! lol Maybe she missed out as a child!

Happy Monday Night from the UK - I went out with a friend tonight, caught up on lots of girly stuff! (she's actually my best friend who is doing a reading for us in the wedding) hehe don't know if you've read that bit of the PJ... lol anyway... we had a good night! OMG - we even opened xmas presents - How naughty!

Speak Soon... yay for the holidays!

xxx

 

[CourtenayB]

Hey COURTNEY,

I think you got a GOOD deal there with the $525 option. However, if you are not completely happy with your choice, why don't you change? Im sure they would understand? You would have a cooling off period too though for your deposit? (I hope I have made proper sense of the below post) lol Sorry If I have got the wrong end of the stick! lol (Im not blonde... but sometimes I do wonder!!!)

And... its sooo good to rant on here sometimes! She does sound a bit down on the whole disney thing... I mean whats not to like! lol Maybe she missed out as a child!

Happy Monday Night from the UK - I went out with a friend tonight, caught up on lots of girly stuff! (she's actually my best friend who is doing a reading for us in the wedding) hehe don't know if you've read that bit of the PJ... lol anyway... we had a good night! OMG - we even opened xmas presents - How naughty!

Speak Soon... yay for the holidays!

xxx

I used to be blonde so I totally understand. You made sense, don't worry hahaha. xoxo

 

[MrsDuck]

$525 is cheap, IMO!! I'm sorry you're disappointed about Randy! I'm sure you're photographer will be great though!

I'm sorry to hear about future MIL though! I don't understand why some moms just can't be nice and supportive-- even if they don't approve! So irritating! Hopefully she keeps her opinions to herself in the future!

 

[tric8783]

Sounds like you got a GREAT deal on your photographer!! Especially with travel included- wowza! I think the videography sounds like a good number too, but depends how much you want videography If it's not realllly important you could definitely have a friend or family member tape themselves for you!

Ugh totally hear you on your FMIL giving you trouble about Disney. Mine is actually really sweet and doesnt say a word about us going to Disney (I think she is actually really excited!) but we definitely get the comments from people. Maybe try not giving her so much detail, meaning now that you took her to try on dresses, you're done having to bring her, you showed her the newsletter etc. Not necessarily NOT include her, but I just wouldnt keep her so involved if she has that kind of attitude and its bothering you. Just my opinion!!

Good luck with her!

I LOVE your e-pics, they are soo cute!!

 

[CourtenayB]

$525 is cheap, IMO!! I'm sorry you're disappointed about Randy! I'm sure you're photographer will be great though!

I'm sorry to hear about future MIL though! I don't understand why some moms just can't be nice and supportive-- even if they don't approve! So irritating! Hopefully she keeps her opinions to herself in the future!

I agree with you...just be supportive. But that's ok. I am not going to worry...it will all work out and be okay and as long as my parents, DF, and BMs are supoortive I am happy. Thanks for bein suck a sweetie!

 

[CourtenayB]

Sounds like you got a GREAT deal on your photographer!! Especially with travel included- wowza! I think the videography sounds like a good number too, but depends how much you want videography If it's not realllly important you could definitely have a friend or family member tape themselves for you!

Ugh totally hear you on your FMIL giving you trouble about Disney. Mine is actually really sweet and doesnt say a word about us going to Disney (I think she is actually really excited!) but we definitely get the comments from people. Maybe try not giving her so much detail, meaning now that you took her to try on dresses, you're done having to bring her, you showed her the newsletter etc. Not necessarily NOT include her, but I just wouldnt keep her so involved if she has that kind of attitude and its bothering you. Just my opinion!!

Good luck with her!

I LOVE your e-pics, they are soo cute!!

Tric. you are so right about the videographer and now that I think about it it's not such a need for us to have it. My parents are paying for the wedding and dad has said he really doesn't want to pay for the when we can save the $500-$600. I agree with him and they are really great about trying to get us what we want so I am totally ok with cutting the video. They are far too generous as it is. Little sweeties!!

My FMIL is not terrible or anything- she's nice but they (his parent's) are just very very different then anyone I have ever known. They are a bit self-centered and focused on themselves and their kids but don't really go out of the way or act interested in anyone else (it's a bit hard to explain). But I will just deal with it b/c I want this to be fun and my parents and friends are great so I am not worried too much. Thanks for the kind words! I am glad you have a nice FMIL- that is so fun and you will enjoy your experience even more.

Wel I am off of work early I think...it's very quiet in here today (I hear crickets...Jiminy Cricket lol). Have a fab Christmas and holiday and I'll touch base soon. xoxo.

 

[Chilly]

Your e-pics are brilliant.

We weren't going to have a videographer at first but i'm glad I added one now, I love watching our video, and i'm glad i'll have it to show my children in the future.

 

[CourtenayB]

Hi! This post is not heavily involved in wedding plannin but just an update of what has been going on. I am hoping everyone had a very wonderful holiday. We spent so much time with family and it was great. I got to see my brother and nephews whom I only see about once a year since they live in the Bahamas. This was our first Christmas together since they have were born. Can't believe it.

New years was fun, spent with good friends at a neat little lounge/club/bar place. Lucky for us we have a friend who manages a Lamborghini (I don't know if that's how you spell it) dealership and he was able to let us use an excursion limo the dealership has just purchased. And it was free to all of us. He is also credited for getting us into the swanky lounge we went to b/c he sold the owner a car and the owner let us have a free table for our massive group of non-snobby, normal citizens. Our friend has come a long way; he started out mopping the floors and polishing rims at the dealership and will soon be the owner of it. This offers us normal folks some nice perks. Trust me when I say we DO NOT do stuff like this every day. So it was really a neat experience.

On a not so great note, my mom has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. This just happened about two weeks ago. It's been tough and scary but we are trying to stay positive. The doctor seems to think we caught it super early and they have found that the cell is so small that it doesn't seem to be too detrimental. It's so small, in fact, they they don't even have a classification/phase for this type of cancer. She will have surgery on Friday and we will find out if it has moved into her lymph nodes. Please pray for her. I will let you all know what is going on.

As for wedding related things:

We took our second round of engagement photos on Saturday and I think they are going to be even better than the first set. We added some Disney elements to them this time. I did my own hair and makeup and felt so much better about how I looked.

I have found our BM dresses and the girls love them. Here's a pic (it's kind of strange b/c it was a flash page and I couldn't save the image so I had to print screen it and save):

In case that doesn't work here is the link to the page:
http://www.dessy.com/dresses/bridesmaid/2858

My new ring still hasn't come in. It was supposed to be here on the 2nd (4-6 weeks; that would have been 6 weeks) but for some reason the jeweler said it won't ship til the 17th. I don't know what's going on or why it will take 8-9 weeks but as long as it comes I am happy.

I think that is pretty much it. I won't be able to update you on the prices or BEO b/c I haven't met with Disney yet; that will take place in March. After that it's full speed ahead.

Hugs!

Courtenay

 

[Ash8716]

I am so sorry to hear about your mom, but you are very lucky they caught it so early. I will be keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.

I love the bridesmaid gowns you chose, very elegant and sophisticated! I can't wait to see round 2 of your engagement photos.

 

[CourtenayB]

Ooops I forgot something else. I have been working with Denise from Dogwood Blossoms on our invitations and she is ahhhhmazing! I spoke with her once on the phone and sent her some info via email about what I would like in terms of invitations. I didn't really have any idea and I was at a loss. Well our samples arrived in the mail from her over the weekend and would you believe it?! They were so beautiful and perfect. She took what little information I gave her and created an amazing invitation design. It was exactly what I wanted even though I didn't know I wanted it. Hee hee.

We will have about 100 people at our wedding so we will only need about 60-70 invites (bc most guests are couples or have children). With our invites we get complimentary matching table numbers. On top of this we are ordering programs and possibly buffet signs. We will get all of it for about $800. Pretty darn good I think.

I don't have a pic right now but I will eventually. If you are interested in her please contact her at: http://www.DogwoodBlossomStationery.com

 

[CourtenayB]

I am so sorry to hear about your mom, but you are very lucky they caught it so early. I will be keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.

I love the bridesmaid gowns you chose, very elegant and sophisticated! I can't wait to see round 2 of your engagement photos.

Thanks sweetie! I really appreciate it.

 

[tric8783]

Oh Courtenay, I am so sorry to hear about your mom! Luckily it sounds like she caught it soon enough! I hope her surgery goes well and nothing has spread! I will definitely keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers!

I really like those BM dresses! All you girls on here with your long dresses make me doubt my choice for short dresses!! hahaha Really they are stunning. Is that black or navy? Are you keeping them in that color as well?

Sounds like your NYE was a good time!! And your invitations sound great too! Love that your table numbers are included. Are you ableto get your programs and buffet menus included for the $800? That is great!! Good job! Can't wait to see them!

 

[Fay]

Hey Chick,

Sorry to hear about your mum, but it sounds like they are all being very positive about the process, she will be fine. I am thinking of her and your family! Fingers crossed!

Your BM dresses are beautiful, and half the battle is the girls liking them! lol

Happy planning and air kisses

Faye

xx

 

[ladyemz]

Hi Courtenay,

I am so sorry to hear about your mum, I am thinking of you all and sending loads of pixie dust your way, hopefully the surgery is a success and they have caught it early enough, let us know she she is

Sorry to hear you are sad about not working with Randy but your photographer has done a great job so far!!!! And if you want to work with Randy then an anniversary shoot in a few years? hehe. He is such a sweetie!

Love your choice of BM dresses, is that the colour you are having too?
Sorry about your FMIL, I have to say I have the same and we are really getting annoyed with the "bit Disney" comments too, and "is it fancy fress" or "are you dressing as Mickey mouse?". Lately we have been thinking we wish we were just going out to do it on our own as we know we will love every bit of our day, but I am sure when our guests get there they will take all of their comments back! How can someone say "I hate Disney" when they have never even been to any parks?! Grrr.....

My FMIL is just totally uniterested in out plans and doesn't get involved at all which is nice as like you me and her have very different tastes, but I feel sorry for Scott as my family are showing interest, and have also given us some money towards the wedding. FMIL has brought a cheap dress from a supermarket here in the sale for £13 to wear to her own sons wedding! And as you know our colour scheme is blue and purple, her dress is pink...and his sisters black and orange?! Families huh!!!!

9 months to go for us my lovely, very exciting!!! xxx