Petals & Pixie Dust Planning Journal 11/30/2009/2010

[polynesianbride]

Just caught up on everything! I am so glad you had such a wonderful Disney/DCL trip and am so glad that your mom LOVED the Wedding Pavillion! Graduation in 20 days!!!!!! Now that is exciting! Congrats on everything!

 

[Rebclay]

So, it's 11:04pm and I can't sleep. Tomorrow is supposed to be Dolphy Day at school-this ridiculous day where all the students get drunk and skip class. Why they need a special day to do this I don't know. Whatever! (it's really pretty boring)

Anyway, there is quite a bit coming up.
-Last week of classes
-Finals
-Graduation in 20 days.
-Dinner with both families in 19 days.
*Note* This dinner includes the entire guest list minus one that will be at our wedding. This is the FIRST time we will all be together in the same place at the same time.

That's too cool. I graduate on the 16th as well and my families are meeting too. Not, gonna lie, it makes me very nervous. Let us know how everything goes.

 

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

Just caught up on everything! I am so glad you had such a wonderful Disney/DCL trip and am so glad that your mom LOVED the Wedding Pavillion! Graduation in 20 days!!!!!! Now that is exciting! Congrats on everything!

thanks! I will admit all of this is pretty scary. This is my second career-but I'm so comfortable in the college world that I don't know if I want to go back to the real world! I've been job hunting and have had 1 interview and have 1 more coming up...this is for a job I really want...I'm taking all the pixie dust I can get!!!

I'm glad my mom loved the pavillion too!

We're down to 15 days until graduation...which means 14 days until the family meets!

That's too cool. I graduate on the 16th as well and my families are meeting too. Not, gonna lie, it makes me very nervous. Let us know how everything goes.

Rebclay-I'll keep you in my thoughts on the 16th. I understand that nervous feeling. DF's mom will be staying for graduation on the 17th. My mom works at the college that I am at and is giving me my diploma. This is a great time for all of us! However, DF, his mom and my dad will all be sitting together while my mom gives me my diploma...It should be interesting.

After all the school hoopla...besides prepping for my interview...Dress shopping will continue. Photo will be booked....and I'll be working on the little things as they come. (favors for various things, stuff for our invitation boxes, etc)

Stay tuned!

 

[Crown_princess]

Hi! I just read you PJ and you are doing a great job.

Just a word of encouragement: I've noticed that alot of DisBride parents and inlaws "don't get it" until the day of the wedding. The day of my wedding, it was like everyone had see the light...by brother, mom, dad, inlaws, friends, everyone! Don't worry about it too much, they will thank you later.

 

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

I just took my last final this morning and I walk across the stage on 5/17.
It's all a little bittersweet. I'm glad I'm done...Now to get a job!

 

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

Hi! I just read you PJ and you are doing a great job.

Just a word of encouragement: I've noticed that alot of DisBride parents and inlaws "don't get it" until the day of the wedding. The day of my wedding, it was like everyone had see the light...by brother, mom, dad, inlaws, friends, everyone! Don't worry about it too much, they will thank you later.

Hi Crown Princess!
Thanks for the words of encouragement. My parents are on board. I think that FMIL and FSIL just aren't sure what to make of it. Which is fine. I think that sometimes I get all excited and just want to talk about it...but don't want to bring it up So, I'll take my fair share of the blame b/c if I want to talk about it I should bring it up.
As with everything (even DF's first trip) as soon as someone gets off the plane and onto the magical express people change when they get to WDW. After all, that is the magic of Disney
Thank you for putting that in the fore front of my mind...I am sure that there will come a point in all of this when I'm mad will read through this and remember this advice!

 

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

Ok so things have started to spiral into another direction with graduation weekend. Now, you might be wondering, "What does this have to do with a wedding?" Well, everyone that is going to the wedding (minus 1 b/c DFs brother decided he didn't want to come) will be there. this is the second time that we have all been together. The first was for DFs 30th Birthday party....oh 4-5 years ago.

Well, it was just going to be dinner. Now, DF, Dad, FBIL (FSIL's DH) and I are going to go golfing Saturday morning. Followed by dinner Saturday night. FMIL, DF, my mom and dad will be in attendance for graduation. HOLY COW! This has turned into a mini wedding weekend!

So, I've got my arsenal ready! Complete with (Seriously, I bought a new pair of Disney Hater Blockers today ) and pictures that we took at the WP in Feb. Should the topic come up-I'm on it. My mom is ready to do some bragging...

Let's just say-its all good!

Details from the weekend with pics up next!

 

[torsie24]

Lol! Disney Hater Blockers! I need me some of those!!

Golfing wekend sounds great!

Have a wonderful graduation!!

 

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

Lol! Disney Hater Blockers! I need me some of those!!

Golfing wekend sounds great!

Have a wonderful graduation!!

Thanks! I hope everything goes smoothly! I'll be back with an update!

 

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

Hi Everyone!
WOW! What a weekend...I'm writing this the day after graduation in hopes to not forget anything. Let me preface this by saying that honestly, I didn't want to leave school...Silly as this sounds, I am moving onto my second career-so maybe I learned that it is easier to stay in school! (And in this economy safer too!) This weekend was very emotional for both my parents and me. DF didn't miss a beat-let me tell you how great it is to hear from the man you love that he is proud of you-even if it is via text message.
There are some cool highlights about this weekend. To start with, we had a golf outing on Saturday, dinner that night and most importantly because my mother works at the college I went to, she was up on stage with me. Second most important was that FMIL stayed for the graduation.
I spent a lot of time trying NOT to cry, reminding myself to take it all in, and at times thought "geez this is like a wedding." I've come to the conclusion that an escape wedding is perfect for us. It was a little intimidating to walk in to an auditorium of over 10,000 people who are all looking at you. I can't imagine saying my vows in front of 100!
So...here's the story...

I was on my way to the college for rehearsal when my car started to sound funny. Luckily, I wasn't far from my mechanic and called them in a shear panic b/c I had to be at the school at 1145 to meet my mom. The call went something like "Hi! Um...my car is making a funny noise, it was whistling earlier in the week. I thought I could get it through this week and bring it in next. I'm gonna need a loaner. I've got graduation rehearsal and if I'm not there my mother is gonna kill me." Kim-receptionist at the garage said "Ok first off, I don't have a loaner we have too many cars at auction. Second, can you get here safely?" "Yes" "Ok, get here I'll get you right in. We'll make sure that the car is safe to drive and get you an appointment for Monday." I drive my car over to the garage and the noise it was making stopped. Great.
True to her word, Kim got me right in. It was a brake problem. I could get to rehearsal, the mall for a couple odds and ends but I was to park the car for the rest of the weekend. Monday I would come in for a brake job that could cost between $300-500 Figures I pay the car off and now this...There went my graduation money But, I need a car-welcome to the real world...again.

I got to the college, collected my mother and got a gift from the bookstore (I work there part time) It was a learning angel...It's similar to the figurine that we got from DF's mom for our engagement. (I forgot to take a pic-sorry) but it was cute. I appreciated the thoughts and kind wishes and said just as much.
Mom and I went down to the athletic center where she was briefed on what she would be doing. She unfortunately, would not be handing me my diploma but would be congratulating me while I was on stage. Fair enough.
Here is her during her briefing....(She's the one in the white Le Moyne shirt)

She was so particular about her role and even made the group allow her to walk through everything with her! She was so particular that she wanted everything just perfect.

Other than this, the rehearsal was pretty boring. Make sure your tassel starts on the right. You will be exiting this side of the building when you are done. Meet at this time to get your robes on and people will show you how to put those hoods on that none of you with a 4 year degree-or a masters for that matter can figure out. (Seriously. No one could figure out how the hood worked. )

*I honestly don't remember what happened Friday night. No clue. It could not have been that important...)

Saturday Morning
This started pretty early. We were meeting my dad and FBIL at the golf course at 0830. Tee time at 0910. I got a phone call from my dad at about 0750 saying that there was a threat of rain and that we would most likely be rained out. Great. Oh well. We'd try it. DF, Dad & I meet up and wait for FBIL...they were coming from about 2 hours away-but he made it on time.
Here is my dad and I...

Like any good dad, he gave me his jacket b/c my wind breaker didn't match my outfit He also told me I needed to buy more shoes!

I pulled out my new golf shoes ready to wear them no matter what the cost b/c they are the best!

My dad tells me that they are too good to wear on a day like today and that I should wear my tevas instead. I should be wearing my good shoes on 90 degree days with no chance of rain what so ever. However, I would also need a semi good pair and a mud pair Shoe shopping...No problem!

Golfing was fun...but honestly, I suck at it. We just started playing last year. Even though I took lessons as a kid...getting back into it has been a challenge. So, the night before DF tells me my handicap is 48 and that the most I can hit on any hole is a 10. I told the boys that I was taking a 180 score minus my 48 for the day and that I was playing for fun and not by the rules. Sorry, I am just not at the point where I need to be competitive and this was my first time out on a course this year. The boys didn't care and that was good b/c my first shot off the tee went up and directly behind me. I have no clue how I did that... Sand traps...Yeah-I took two shots and if I wasn't out I threw the ball out of it. If I didn't get a put in 2-3 strokes the ball got picked up. I was aware that there are people behind us and I didn't want to hold anyone up...I got better as the day went on. I guess that is progress.
Here are some pics of the men

Dad to the left, DF behind him and FBIL to the right.
At one point I got tired of playing and started to take pics of the geese, tried to find the bull frog, and missed out on a great pic of some birds. (18 holes is way too much for me!!!)

On the 18th hole we got rained out...Torrential downpour! We were almost done..DF says its my fault b/c 100% of the time it rains on the 17th and 18th holes when we play together. I told him that is why we need to stick to 9 holes! He agrees.
So, we ran off the course and left to get ready for dinner.

*My parents have pics of dinner. For some reason I didn't think these were important.

I'm happy to report that dinner went well. Kind of.

DF and I met my parents at the restaurant 30 minutes before everyone else got there. Everyone wanted me to be excited. Honestly, I'm petrified. It's hard to get that 21 year old WOOHOO thing going when you know that 1. there is only 1 job out there in your chosen field-and you interview for it in 2 weeks. 2. You worry you aren't going to get that job and then what do you do when school loans come due. 3. I enjoyed being a student...I'm not totally certain that I wanted it to end. 4. I was exhausted from walking 18 holes of golf, getting rained on and just tired in general.
I got a coke and figured the caffeine would do me good.
DF's family got there and there were hugs all around. I took this as a good sign. Strange but a good sign. As everyone got to know each other my mom's best friend came in. I was so excited to see her! It was a great surprise. She has alway been part of my life and I was glad to have her here for this...at first. We sat for dinner and I think I could have positioned myself better. I was at the head of one table..and probably should have been in the middle. I didn't get to talk to DF's grandparents all night lesson learned. The food was great! However, mom's best friend got drunk ...and loud ...It was a little embarrassing. DF was a bit irritated by this b/c it wasn't all about this woman...The night was supposed to be a celebration of my achievements.
(I later asked my mom what that was all about and she wasn't sure. She hoped it didn't ruin my night b/c she wanted to surprise me with her friend being there. I assured her that she hadn't, but that I was disappointed in her actions. I was just glad that everyone was there to celebrate. I left it at that. However, this is the same person that is upset that she isn't invited to the wedding and I told my mother that I will not make any changes to my guest list after this. -Mom said she wouldn't expect me to)

Not much wedding stuff came up...See the pattern? I want to talk about the wedding and I never get a chance. I'm starting to find this comical. But when do you talk to the other family about it?

Later after talking to my mom she said she talked to FBIL and asked him if they were going to make it to the wedding. He said that they would and that they were already saving!
At one point my mom's friend started talking about the picture hats that they wore for my mom's wedding and in her drunken stupor told me I should wear one. I looked at my FSIL and said, "No picture hats at my wedding. Unless they are for the tea party." This was rather abrupt and FSIL looked at me like I was nuts. So, I quickly said, "Nevermind, I'll explain later!" I was flustered and a bit irritated at that point. Oh well. What ever.

 

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

We came home after dinner and it was a quiet evening. I was lost in thought...I think...although I couldn't tell you what was on my mind. I got my gown ready and laid out my clothes. It was all a little surreal. We went to bed and got up early-my parents were going to be there at 0800 for pictures and stuff.

*Note* My mom had a crazy time line...that ran 30 minutes to an hour earlier than the time everything started. I attribute this to her wanting everything perfect. It was all a little crazy really but I love that she did everything she could to have things go smoothly.

By the time my parents got there, I was dressed and DF was getting out of the shower...They were 15 minutes ahead of schedule. My parents brought me yellow roses (school colors were green and gold)

We took more pictures. Me with mom. Me with dad. Me with DF. These are all on my parents camera. FMIL got there and it was time to go. Robing was done at 0915-1000. Line up was at 1000. We walked in at 1010.

Let me tell you. I was ok. At least I thought I was ok. I walked in and found someone to put my hood on correctly. Since the staff have all known me since I was 11 I was hugged and congratulated. I talked with friends, got some danish. I was ok. Not totally calm but ok. Then I saw my favorite professor. She came running up to me hugged me and said "Congratulations! You did it!" I looked at her and told her to stop that I was going to cry. She said "No crying! You have so much ahead of you! You're going to be great!" My tears were flowing. She was wiping me tears and telling me all the great things that are in store for me. She pulled me together and congratulated me again and we were walked away from each other. I was a mess. I was glad I didn't wear too much eye make-up but I was splotchy. A few deep breaths and I moved on. I talked with other professors, shook hands, hugged friends...and then it was show time.

We lined up and started to walk out. I was ok until one of the guys from the student life office looked at me and said "Smile!" I didn't want to smile, I wanted to get up the stairs and not trip when I walked cross the stage. He's done hundreds of these...I only get one. I started taking everything in. The walk up the stairs. Pomp and Circumstance. Walking into the auditorium. Stopping just before the doors. The flashes going off from cameras. Reminding myself that this was my time. I even thought a couple of times that this is what my wedding will be like.
The doors opened and we walked in. I remember thinking to myself to just breathe and to relax. I thought to myself to stop crying...told myself I was alright.
I finally got to walk in. WOW. Is this what it is like to have the doors open at the WP and walk in. Ok maybe not like just like that-but it kept me from crying b/c all I wanted to do was cry. The walk was soooo slow. I felt like it took forever. I finally got to my seat.
*these pictures make me realize how badly we need a new camera*

I'm the one looking at the camera with the big cheesey grin on my face...

All the usual rituals took place. Blah blah blah...I put a belt on around my dress to hide my cell phone. Unzipped my gown and spent most of the time texting DF. I told him I was emotional. He replied "Proud of you" I so needed to hear that and so glad he said it when he did Here is the rest of the ceremony-or at least the important parts...

Lined up ready to go...Absolute panic on my face

I'm the second one in line

Being told Congratulations and to smile by one of my moms friends/co-workers

Getting my diploma...

Mom being congratulated by the president of the college

It was amazing and I'm so glad that my mom got to be up on stage with me.
While there wasn't a lot of wedding talk going on the confirmation that FSIL & FBIL were saving for the wedding really made me happy.
Now, if I could just learn to keep the tears under control the wedding day will be great. I'm not sure how that will play out..I just hope I'm not all splotchy that day! I don't want to ruin my pictures!!!

PS Thanks for reading this. It was an awesome experience and I wanted to remember it. Now, fingers crossed I nail the interview in June!

 

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

WooooHoooo!
I just got off the phone with Misty and she is having Nelio send me the paperwork! YEAH!

 

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

So, mom had the day off from work and we went dress shopping....and....WE GOT THE DRESS!!!

It is a Maggie Sottero. Her name is Grace. She is perfect! Mom got teary eyed...and then I got teary eyed...and everyone said it looked perfect!
At first I think that I was being a little critical...but then to look at the lines and the detail. WOW! It took my mom's breath away! Then, I didn't want to take it off...
The color is "gold" with a white overlay. The bead work and detailing are perfect...Of course it is...it's my dress.
The train isn't too crazy...
Yes, I have pics but DF is up and about and I don't want him to see it!!! Besides the pictures don't do it justice. (That and I have a terrible look on my face...)

Now, here is the hard part. My grandmother's bracelet that I have wanted to wear since I was a kid might be too much. I'm a little upset by this...but will somehow make it work. I'm also a little worried about using red roses. However, if I have to give up the bracelet...I can't give up the roses... We will see.

I have some other updates to get to...Hopefully that will happen soon.

YEAH I GOT THE DRESS!!!

 

[Sarah <3 Disney]

Is it this one? There are a couple labeled as Grace. And I figured just a link would be safe.

http://www.maggiesottero.com/dress....keywordType=any&page=0&pageSize=12&style=J857

 

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

Is it this one? There are a couple labeled as Grace. And I figured just a link would be safe.

http://www.maggiesottero.com/dress....keywordType=any&page=0&pageSize=12&style=J857

That's it!

 

[Sarah <3 Disney]

Very nice! Hehe. I am curious, what does your grandma's bracelet look like? Maybe you could use it in some other way, maybe wrap it around the bouquet stem?

Edit: And why exactly are you worried about using red roses? Since it is a gold dress, maybe you could have some gold hidden mickeys in the red roses. I think a solid red rose bouquet would be gorgeous! Using multiple flowers in a bouquet may compete with all the detail on the dress, so I think you should keep it nice and simple.

 

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

Here is what my grandmother's bracelet looks like....

I've wanted to wear it ever since I was a little girl. Like all things in this PJ it has a funny story. After she died it was sitting on a chair in our diningroom. I loved it and wanted to keep it. My aunt said that I couldn't have it b/c she thought she might want it. So, I stealthly tucked it behind some papers or something and my aunt forgot about it...It has been mine ever since!!!

But that would compete with the tiara...

I have to wear the tiara...It's never been worn! (accept for the tea party I had the night after I bought it b/c I just had to wear it!!! )

And the roses....

Mom said I should wear it as an anklet At least it would be with me...

The other thing is that the bracelet has a gold setting and the tiara is silver. I don't think that will matter much b/c they are so far apart. I do have the Cinderella bracelet...but I'm more Belle than Cindy. BUT that bracelet is pretty bold in design too.

Lastly, if I don't use my grandmother's bracelet I'm gonna have to come up with something old AND something borrowed...

I was really happy that my mom and I weren't at each others throats for this...She is too-she even said so

 

[DisneyBrideToni]

Your dress is beautiful and congrats on getting Misty!!!!!!!!!!!! You are going to love her!!!!

 

[Bolanette87]

Your dress is just gorgeous Hun! I really love the bracelet that belonged to your Grandmother... I think it would complement the gold in the dress beautifully!

Bob xoxoxox

 

[Petals & Pixie Dust]

Your dress is beautiful and congrats on getting Misty!!!!!!!!!!!! You are going to love her!!!!

Thanks! Your pics sealed the deal! She did a great job and is so down to earth, upfront and honest! I loved talking to her!

Your dress is just gorgeous Hun! I really love the bracelet that belonged to your Grandmother... I think it would complement the gold in the dress beautifully!

Bob xoxoxox

Thanks! I love the bracelet too, but we are afraid it might be too much-especially with the tiara...We aren't throwing out the idea yet. We are going to bring everything with us when we pick up the dress...sometime in i NOVEMBER This whole wedding planning thing is a lot of hurry up...and wait... So worth it though!