A Bride's Golden Moments

Shopping Over the Holiday Weekend

2009-11-28T22:43:00.000-08:00

As my food digested on Thanksgiving Day, I contemplated back and forth if I wanted to conjure up the energy to hit up the shopping outlets at 12AM like all the other crazed Black Friday shoppers. Ultimately, I punked out and retreated to bed. By Saturday I was eager to get out there and see what the stores had.

I've been in total "home mode" lately. I can go out with the intention to get something much needed for myself and end up buying something for our future home. It's all I ever think about- even more than the wedding.

Today, with no particular thing in mind to buy, I stumbled across the perfect wall art to compliment the bathroom set I'm registered for.

This is the bathroom set:

And here is my lucky find for our future bathroom walls:

As I happily made my way to the register, I also spotted these monogrammed butter spreads and needless to say, I had to get them, too:

I'm trying not to go overboard on the "home buying" because my shower is right around the corner, but some things are just hard to pass up. I'm making a conscious effort to stay away from kitchen appliances, pots, plates, and bedding- but everything else is up for grabs!

Did anyone else do some shopping over the holiday weekend?

Quick Side Note to Share!

2009-11-18T11:12:00.000-08:00

All the time I was absent from this blog, I was working on something very dear to me. Now I feel like it's time I share that with you.

Topaz Event Design is my event planning company. If you like what you read here, I can assure you that you'll love my other blog even more.

Golden Moments will continue to be a personal blog of my journey to "I do" and beyond, so please continue to stay here with me!

8 months and counting!

2009-11-18T10:11:00.000-08:00

Maybe I'm in denial, but I refuse to believe that November is almost over! I mean really, where did this year go?!? I am 8 months away from the big day. Here's what's been going on:

New Shower Location: BOOKED

Originally my shower was going to be outside, but we had to push the date up to the middle of April. My mom was a little skeptical of how the weather would be so we started looking for other alternatives. Our new venue is a blank space and we're going to bring everything in {linens, catering, decorations}. Last Saturday we went to see the space in person and it was perfect. I love working with a blank canvas so things are okay in this area.

I went from not being allowed to know anything about my shower, to knowing only the date and place, to being involved in the planning! I even have my outfit already. It's not that I don't like prizes and it's not that I'm a micro manager- I just like to be prepared! Plus with my career, it would have been really hard to pick a date without telling me. Soooo, I guess my baby shower can be a surprise in a few years!

Wedding Jewelry: Almost Booked

Just like my wedding dress, I am having my jewelry custom made. There's actually a part of my dress that has jewelry on it {I know it sounds weird, but once I finally reveal what my dress looks like it will all make sense}. I'm going to see my dress designer today to be measured for the part where the jewelry will go, and once I have those measurements I can finally place the order for my jewelry so that all my pieces can match.

Bridesmaid Gifts: Soon!

I'm waiting to catch the holiday sales for this. In fact, I was even considering going to the outlets at 12am on black Friday to see what I can find, but I haven't quite made up my mind yet if I'm going to go through with that plan!

And sadly, as happy as I am about the holidays being here, it makes me a little sad that this is my last Thanksgiving and Christmas at home. Usually I'm the potato peeler or the collard greens washer & cutter, but this year will be different! I will have my hiney in the kitchen getting down with momma because I need to be prepared to do this on my own next year in my own house!

Don't get me wrong, I know how to cook, and I cook really good when I decide to cook. But I've never made a Thanksgiving meal, and honestly, it sounds quite intimidating! I'll take pictures of my Thanksgiving Cooking 101 course and blog about it!

Stay tuned!

Engage-aversary!

2009-09-21T18:03:00.000-07:00

I was just sitting here watching t.v. when I realized that today is my engage-aversary. Two years! Can you believe that? Gosh, it seems like I've been engaged for forever but this is the last engage-aversary that I'll be celebrating. Next year at this time I will be married for 2 months!

I remember my outfit, hairstyle, and shoes. I remember the chilliness in the air as we watched the water. And funniest of all, I remember dropping down to my knees with Mr. Golden as he asked me to be his wife because they were just too weak to hold me up.

Oh, and let me not forget making an account on The Knot and seeing my wedding countdown in the 900's. I sit here and smile as I think about how it seemed like it all happened yesterday. Now in just ten months I'll be walking down the aisle, and even better- in 7 months we should be moving into our new home (fingers crossed on the details and a whole other blog post to talk about!)

Save the Dates: Check!

2009-09-18T07:39:00.000-07:00

I've been swamped with save the dates since last weekend. I was upset with myself because I had intended to send these out at the one year mark, but what the heck! 10 months - 1 year, it's all the same!

I still have a second wave of people to send them out to, but none of them read this blog, so it's okay to show them off today!

I knew early on that I wanted something a little different for save the dates, but I just didn't know what. Originally I wanted to do a clear photo cube with pictures on 4 sides, the words "save the date" on one side, and then the information on the remaining side. I saw early on that although a wonderful idea, it would have been way too expensive to print all the pictures and purchase the cubes. Not to mention, I can only imagine the looks I would have received at the post office when trying to mail them.

One day while at Michaels, I came across clear plastic 4x6 picture frames and a light bulb went off in my head. I decided to do two pictures side by side on a post card, with the information pertaining to the save the date on the back. The clear plastic frames made it so that people could see the pictures and the information easily. Next, I said to myself, "damn, I'm going to need a lot of 40% coupons to get 85 of these things.

I almost gave up on the idea until one day while walking to the store, I came across a picture frame sale in the middle of the street that a warehouse was giving. Un-freaking-believable is what I felt when I saw that they had clear plastic frames at a fraction of the cost Michaels was selling them for. I never ran to the bank so fast to draw money!

I took my idea to a print shop and they designed and printed the save the dates for me. Here's the final result:

click on photos to enlarge

They were still a hassle to mail but the trouble was worth it. I'm just glad they're DONE!

Engagement Pictures Pt. II

2009-09-13T22:37:00.000-07:00

If you'll remember, it took me what seemed forever to find outfits for the engagement pictures. I kept thinking that I would have to see these pictures forever, so I didn't want anything too trendy and have to worry about hating the way I looked later on. Mr. Golden and I met at the Gap, so for the first part of the shoot, I wanted something very clean, casual and Gap-ish. That's why we stayed in the neutral colors.

For the second part of the photo shoot, I wore a long black dress to spice things up a bit and bring in some contrast. Originally we wanted to do a sunset photo shoot, but our schedules wouldn't allow it. Hindsight is 20/20 so of course now I have all these crazy ideas of other things we could have done- however, all in all, we had fun and it was a new experience for both of us. Going through it together has put the flame under our tushies to really go above and beyond when it comes to the trash the dress photo shoot.

All photos are credit of Jasmine Photography. Click on images to enlarge.

On another note, tomorrow it's off to the post office I go because the first batch of Save the Dates are ready to be mailed!

Engagement Pictures!

2009-08-30T10:42:00.000-07:00

Where are my manners? It's been a long time and I've been super busy with...life! It's not an excuse, but I guess I just lost my blogging mojo for a bit. It may not be fully back quite yet but I just wanted to leave you with these photos.

All photos are credit of Jasmine Photography. Click on images to enlarge.

Shortly after this last picture was taken, we changed outfits and headed to another shooting location. I'll share those in another post!

The Good News Is That There's No Bad News!

2009-07-17T13:02:00.000-07:00

I wish I had some interesting stuff to share about the wedding, but quite honestly, there's just not that much going on right now! I know I have yet to share the engagement pictures and I promise those are coming soon. There's a lot of stuff happening in other aspects of my life, and I can't wait to reveal the exciting news about that {nope I'm not preggers! lol}. But I promise all will come in due time!

In all honesty, this is exactly how I envisioned this year going in terms of the wedding because I put the majority of the plans together last year. Even more importantly, having this down time in planning the wedding has allotted me so much more time to focus on all the other things going on around me.

There has been talk about the bridal shower theme and rehearsal dinner location- all which deserve posts of their own so bear with me as I try to bring the life back to this blog! Have a great weekend! :)

7/7 A day of Remembrance

2009-07-06T23:27:00.000-07:00

Today is a bit of a sad day for me. It is the four year mark of my great grandmother's passing. I definitely think about her more and more as the wedding day steadily approaches. I would have loved for her to have seen Mr. Golden and I get married being that I am the first one out of all the great grandchildren to make that step. But it would be unfair for me to wish such a thing because if she were still here, I'm sure she'd be suffering and I'd like to think that she is in a much better place.

I thought it would be easier to write this post after four years, but it's not. The only way I find solace is knowing that she met and approved of Mr. Golden when she was still here. One of my all time favorite memories of her with Mr. Golden and I was at a family BBQ back in 2004:

I was irritating my mom {something I do frequently} and my mother jokingly said to Mr.Golden along the lines of, "Handle my light work, get her away from me." Him being 6'3 and me being 5'2, he turned around and picked me up over his shoulder. My great grandmother was sitting in the chair all along, and said in those old-lady voices, "Oooh chile, I sure hope he don't be beating on you."

Everybody starting cracking up. It was her funny, outlandish comments and witty personality that made everyone in her presence fall in love with her. She is truly missed, but will always be remembered and remain apart of us in our hearts and memories.

RIP great grandma: the only one who used to play Old Maid with me and allow me to win almost every time!

Graphic Designer: Check!

2009-07-05T17:01:00.001-07:00

My search for a graphic designer to design and process my wedding invitations went ever so smooth. Not only are they halfway paid for, but the stationer is going to start on the custom design concept this week. The printing production won't start until the beginning of next year because 1) I don't have the room to store them, and 2) I don't want the paper to fade or experience any other horrific ordeals.

I decided on thermography style printing. I absolutely love the way the raised lettering and images feel and the glossy look to it. The image below shows an example of how thermography printing looks, but the picture doesn't really do it justice.

*This is not the design or company I'm working with.

source: One Wed

I didn't totally escape the diy process of invites, I will still have to assemble them and package them up {which is nothing is comparison to what I was going to do before}. I've also been toying with the thought of calligraphy, but as of now, pretty lables sound like a great plan.

In the meantime, I'm embarrased to admit that I have yet to start collecting people's addresses for the guest list. I don't know what I'm waiting for, but this something I need to start on ASAP.

Invitations On The Brain

2009-06-22T23:01:00.000-07:00

Lately, invitations have been on my mind. This was an area that originally I was going to do myself. However, with the recent influx of things added to my already crazy schedule, I've decided that I want no parts. That's the first rule to being a smart and practical bride. Know when something is too much to deal with and don't be ashamed to ask for help.

I will still be doing my STD's, programs and menus but when it comes to invites I don't want any association with the printing, cutting, adhesive, nada! Well actually, that's a far stretch, I will have some minor involvement, but nothing major.

So what's next? A graphic designer, but of course! I know exactly what I want but just need someone to create my vision. The invitation below is not mine nor does it resemble what I want, but I love the colors and texture of it. I'll keep you all posted on this new found decision of mine.

source: wedding wire

Centerpiece Changes

2009-06-17T22:05:00.000-07:00

Over the past few weeks I've made some huge changes to the wedding. One of the biggest elements is the floral component. When I first started putting the pieces of this wedding together, flowers were something I had on the bottom of my list. I felt that since we were having our wedding nestled upon a garden, that I really didn't need to bring much outside to the inside.

However {you knew that was coming!}, I am really obsessed over tablescapes and decor elements. I suppose that when you're not totally in love with something, it shows to other people. To make a long story short, I went to a decor meeting with a trusted friend and mentor in the business, and he came up with a genius design concept.

It was a leap of faith decision because as we sat there, he hurriedly drew a sketch that looked like pure scribble scrabble, but I trusted him and saw the vision. On the other hand, I had no idea what Mr.Golden was going to say to my big change. When I showed him the sketch of our new centerpieces, he exclaimed, "What is that!" I told him to just roll with me on this one and that I knew what I was doing. :)

Yesterday I went to go get updated sketches, but to my surprise, waiting for me was my mock up centerpiece. I apologize for the quality of the pictures, but they were taken on my cell phone since I wasn't expecting to see a mock up.

The centerpieces consist of calla lillies, branches, hanging tea light candles, and crystals. What you don't see in this picture that will be added to the real version are orchids and some stargazers.

Another thing that will be added is gold marbles at the bottom of the vases. If you look closely, the vases sit on a base that lights up and will illuminate the marbles.

I have to say that trusting my gut feeling really helped. I was never really 100% in love with my other centerpieces, but I was content with them. I think that there are many times in life and wedding planning when you have to settle on being content, but if and when the opportunity arises to get what you really want, you have to jump on it and not let the opportunity pass you by. It is with this same outlook that we are re-examinating everything related to the wedding and making changes as needed. But don't worry, Mr.Golden won't let me go too crazy! :)

Guest Blogger: Mr.Golden

2009-06-12T12:02:00.000-07:00

Before we were engaged, people would constantly ask when I was going to pop the question. Now that we're engaged, people want to know when an invitation is going to pop up in their mailbox. Enjoy!

Guest Blogger: Mr.Golden

2009-06-09T09:34:00.000-07:00

In this scene Goldie uses her infamous excuse for spending money! She is a trip, enjoy!

Guest Blogger: Mr. Golden

2009-06-08T00:00:00.000-07:00

"Ostrich Eggs"

This scene is based on some of the conversations Goldie and I have had about some of her "outrageous" ideas for the wedding. Although we never talked about ostrich eggs, her ideas are far out there along those same lines. Enjoy!

Minor Shoe Dilema

2009-06-05T10:07:00.000-07:00

One of the things I was looking forward to purchasing were some nice comfy flip flops to change into for the reception. While I was at the meeting with my dress designer the other day, I mentioned this to him and his head nearly spinned. He informed me that I will not be allowed to take my shoes off {yes he was serious!}. In his own words, "If you can't wear the heels, don't buy the shoe."

There goes my dreams right out the window...

Not that I can't walk in my shoes, but the heels are a bit skinny to dance in for my comfort. This leaves me with 1 of 2 options:

1) Buy platform flip flops
2) Find a shoe with a thicker heel that I can use to dance in

If you'll remember, these are my wedding shoes: {I will need to find something with the same height}

I love these Lily Pulitzer sandles but not the $232 price tag. The heel also doesn't give me the height I would need.

source

These are a more affordable option. They're not my favorite, but I think I can certainly rock them and I would definitely be able to dance while retaining a good height so that I'm not tripping over my dress or constantly lifting it up. Another plus is that I can dye them. They still aren't as high as my wedding shoes so I'm still undecided. Decision, decisions, decisions...

source

My Wedding Dress...and other things!

2009-06-04T09:03:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

The past two weeks have been INSANE in terms of the wedding and personal life. But there has been a lot progress made and a clearer sense of how Mr.Golden and I want to map out the beginning of our life as husband and wife, where we see our careers heading, and how we see that affecting us long term. Many, many decisions are in progress and the complexity of it all sometimes henders my writing. But, enough about that!

I've come bearing good news that my wedding dress is now a conception and not just magazine clippings of what I "think" I want! My mom and I went on Tuesday to the dress designer to brainstorm and pick out my desired fabric. I go back next week to see the complete sketch and sample the beading. The process of having my dress made is amazing. I naturally like to be in control and hands on with anything that involves myself, so being able to have creative input in this makes me feel assured that I'm getting my dream dress. I felt like Cinderella when the birds and mice were designing her dress, lol.

source

I have to admit that with the dress a reality now, this wedding is starting to feel real. Most of the time it just feels like a far away dream that's going to happen one day.

I also have a special surprise for you all. Mr. Golden has finally agreed to be a guest blogger! He was going to make his debut last week, but he is not much of a writer. Instead, he is very comical and animated, so he will be posting cartoon videos on his view of the wedding. The cartoons will be based loosely on real situations that we've talked about and things he experiences. I have to tell you that I got a sneak peak yesterday and they are HILARIOUS. I'll have them scheduled for all of next week and we'll see how that goes!

The Engagement Shoot

2009-05-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

I won't have the proofs for about two weeks, but in the meantime I'll sum up the experience. The day started off crazy. My mother couldn't go with me as planned and I was irritated about that and something else. By the time I got to the make up trial I was ok, but the moment I left and got back on the road, I begin to feel the onset of a migraine.

I was planning to get a manicure on the way home but my head began to hurt so bad and I was running around on an empty stomach {I should have known better}. By the time I got home I felt as though I were going to puke. I barely found the strength to eat a plate of rice and take Advil.

I rested for an hour and then it was time to get dressed. I started working at a slow pace but overall I was just in a funky mood. Naturally {but wrongfully}, I started taking my attitude out on Mr.Golden when I thought he wasn't going to make it in time. We were bickering all the way up until we saw the photographer and then we put on our best fake smile and said, "Hi! Nice to see you again" in unison. {lol, don't act like we're the only couple who does this!}

Comically, the photographer didn't pick up on our beef. Instead, he found an area that he wanted to shoot us in. We got there and he positioned us, then said, "Ok, now KISS!" We scrunched up our faces at each other like two toddlers being forced to make up, neither wanting to be the first to give in. But we kissed and then laughed at how silly we were acting.

The rest of the shoot went off without a hitch. We did two locations and two outfits a piece. I can't wait to see the pictures and share them with you all!

Have a great weekend to all, and much love to The Buckeyed Bride and her fiancee for their wedding this Saturday. Congratulations sweetie. I feel like I know you already! You're going to make a beautiful bride, enjoy your day mama!

Make Up Trial Review

2009-05-20T22:42:00.000-07:00

Ok, I must preface this by saying that I was very nervous. I was so scared that I would look like a corpse because in general we've all seen botched up make up jobs. I was also nervous of what Mr.Golden's reaction would be because although I wear eye shadow and liner on a regular basis {and as of recent I've started drawing in my eyebrows because my tattoo is faded}, I never-ever-ever wear any kind of foundation, blush, or cream because thankfully I've never had the need to.

So without further ado, here is a before picture:

When asked by the makeup artist how I want to look on my wedding day, I replied, "I want to look radiant, like I'm glowing...sun kissed...like an Egyptian Goddess {whatever that looks like, lol}." Here's what she came up with:

Close up of the eyes:

Different lighting {more true to color}:

And after a whole day of taking engagement pictures outside and getting sweaty, here I am at the end of the night:

I absolutely loved my makeup. Like I'm literally about to go to bed after publishing this post and I don't even feel like washing my face {yuck! lol}. What's even more encouraging to know is that Mr.Golden loved it, and knowing that makes me feel like a Goddess!

I'll let you know how the engagement shoot went tomorrow!

Like a Virgin...

2009-05-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

My face will be "touched for the very first time."

Today is my make up trial. Lots of emotions running through me: excited, nervous, giddy, etc. I thought I would have to go through this experience alone, but due to a turn of unexpected events, my mom will accompany me!

I will post pictures tomorrow of how it came out along with an overview of how my engagement photoshoot turned out on Friday's post! Yikes, this is starting to feel real!

Wedding Nightmares

2009-05-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

source

Sometimes I fall asleep thinking about the sweet memories I want to make on my wedding day only to wake up a few hours into the night sweating and in a panic. We've all been there before- they're called wedding nightmares.

My most recent one was about a week ago when the media was going crazy over swine flu and this is how it unfolded:

My male cousin, who is also a groomsmen got extremely sick and had to be taken to the hospital. He has been looking forward to this wedding forever. On his way to the hospital he had tears in his eyes {250 + lb. marine/club bouncer}. It broke my heart that he was going to miss the whole wedding.

Fast forward to cocktail hour, I was looking all over for Mr.Golden because it was almost time for our introduction. I couln't find him or the the photographers. I was going crazy because I didn't want the guests to go inside the reception room until after all my little details that I spent years planning got photographed. Somebody came up to tell me that Mr.Golden was sick too and had to leave and the photographers were nowhere to be found.

I broke down crying in my dress that everything was going terribly wrong. I kept saying "all this money we wasted! all this money and I have absolutely nothing to show for it. no groom, no pictures, nothing. all this money down the drain and I will never get this day back. we could have bought a house! now I have nothing!"

Isn't that scary? I mean, when you think of it, it is a lot of money, time and energy being put into one day and no garauntee that everything will go according to plan. It's not an investment, but almost a gamble. I trust all my vendors so that's not my concern at all, but there's no way to control sickness or any other acts of nature. As a person who likes to be in control and have it all together all the time- it's very scary to acknowldge.

In high school, I was planning to go to the prom in 11th grade with a bunch of friends that I had in the 12th grade. I had my ticket, an outfit and shoes picked out and was on my way to get my nails done 2 days before prom when I fell terribly ill with salmonella poisoning from something I ate {I have never been more sick in my life}. I was messed up for two weeks and missed out on everything. Ever since then, I will NOT eat food in public the week before a big event. Nothing is promsed. But all I can do is pray and hope for the best.

Wedding Day Outfit

2009-05-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

I wonder if anyone was as anal over what they would wear the morning of their wedding while getting ready. It was a constant thought for me. My wedding is in July so I knew comfort would be key. I needed something that wouldn't make me overheat and have me sweating like a coca cola bottle at a BBQ.

Before I show you what I bought, let me show you what I didn't decide on.

Gaucho pants: source

These seemed to be the rave a few years ago and could easily be found all over. They're not as easy to find now, but I did eye a few pairs at Target. However, when I tried them on, I didn't really like the way they looked on me. I wanted them in white, and they were SUPER see through. I had to pass.

I love my police officer T-shirt: source

This was a strong option. I want to include Mr.Golden's profession as much and as tastefully possible since it is a huge factor on the decisions we make as a couple. But the fact that it was a t-shirt didn't sit well with me. I don't want to pull anything over my head after my hair gets done {except my dress}.

So with both of those contenders out, I decided on a terry-cloth capri and hoodie set. Terry-cloth is a super soft material and allows air to come through. Although I purchased it in white, it's not as see through as the gaucho pants. I decided to just go nakey under the hoodie {I just have to remember not to unzipper it in front of my family while getting ready!}

The pictures don't really do it much justice but there are little rhinestones on the zipper pull of the hoodie and the draw string hole of the capris

I don't want to go overboard with personalization, but I do plan to get the jacket engraved in the front. It will say:

Mrs. M-------

Est. 7.22.10

Have you thought about your wedding day outfit yet?

T Minus 3 Days to E-pics!

2009-05-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

Finding two outfits for my engagement shoot has not been easy. I wanted to have one casual outfit and then something more spiffy. After weeks of being on the prowl I finally put together the casual outfit. Mr. Golden and I take out pictures this coming Wednesday and with Monday and Tuesday being busy days for me, I only have today to seal the deal on a second outfit.

The pressure is on but I'm not going to vent because I had two shopping successes last week. The first happened while in search for the dress I'm in need of. Instead of finding the dress, I stumbled on the exact outfit I've envisioned wearing the morning of my wedding. Instant score, and it was 30% off.

The second happened on my daily trip to get a cup a tea. I stumbled on a side walk sale of ... oh wait I can't say what it was because then I'll reveal the secret. Let's just say I found my save the dates for a sweet price that's unbeatable. More on both of these fantastic finds a little later, but for now here is a little sneak peak of what I will be wearing for my casual portion of the engagement shoot.

The jeans I bought are similar to this style: source

The shirt is similar to this in style: source

Cross your fingers that I find a dress today and that it doesn't rain on Wednesday!

May the Force Be With Me!

2009-05-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

In just a few short months I will be undergoing a major mission- a task many have tried to conquer, but only a few have survived to talk about. I will need much preparation and the best equipment know to mankind.

You're probably thinking that I'm about to climb Mount Everest, and your guess is close. But really, I will be deciphering RSVP's for my invites! From past experience I can't believe how many people will fail to put a return address on the envelope. For past events, I have received RSVP's that said "yes we're coming!" yet I had no idea who "we" was.

After searching high and low, I think I found the go-go gadget I've been missing in my life. Feast your eyes on the future {lol}:

This secret decoder pen should be strong enough for my mission, but it is actually made for children {they have it so good!}. I found it at U.S. Toy Company and I plan to test it out first to see if it will still decode messages after 8 weeks. If I have the green light to proceed, each RSVP will be given a number that corresponds with the guest using the secret ink. As I get back RSVP's with no name, I'll use the decoder to see who the anonymous responder is.

I'll keep you posted!

.....that's inspector Goldie to you!

Right Hand Girl

2009-05-07T17:18:00.000-07:00

Standing next to every good woman is always a good...woman! No it's not a typo, I'm talking about my Maid of Honor {MOH}. I always knew that when I got married my cousin Nikki would be my MOH. We are two months apart and have built a strong relationship over the years.

I've mentioned before that I have an older half sister on my father's side who I love dearly, but growing up she did not live with us and I didn't get to see her that much. My cousin often felt like the sister I never had.

I was surfing the web the other day when I found the following picture. My jaw dropped and then came the "awwww". I can not wait for the photographer to catch a shot like this of Nikki and I on the big day. And I'm sure her smile will be even bigger!

photo credit: Jennifer Bowen Photography

My Ace

2009-05-06T13:21:00.000-07:00

With Mother's Day just around the corner, today's post is about the lovely lady in my life. I know most girls say that their mother is their best friend, but SERIOUSLY, my mom is my life. My mom had me when she was 18 years old and even though she was merely a child herself, I can't remember a time in my life when she wasn't there. She grew up fast, embraced her role as a mother, and has been there for me every step of the way. One of the greatest things she has taught me is to alway have the courage to follow my dreams. She is my number one fan and supporter with any endeavor I pursue.

People always say to me, "Wow, your mother must be so proud of you" to which I reply, "Yes she is, but I'm really proud of her." She is the woman, wife, and mother that I've always aspired to be. Now that my brother and sister {twins} are in the picture, we don't get to spend as much one on one time together {I was the only child for 16 years with the exception of my older half sister on my father's side}, but one of my favorite moments in the day is when my father and the twins are sleep and my mom and I have our night-cap in the living room to talk about any and everything.

I thoroughly get saddened about the thought of leaving home next year. I often joke around with my mother that the doctor's never cut the umbilical cord. I don't even know how to end this blog post because there's so much to say, but...

On the day of the wedding she will be the only one in the room while the dress maker is dressing me. I'm sure it will be an emotional moment with her probably trying to calm me down...

photo credit: Jennifer Bowen Photography

Only for the both of us to start crying.

photo credit: Holritz Photography

And she will escort me down the aisle along with my father...not "giving me away" but giving me the opportunity to be a wonderful wife to my soon to be husband as she has been to hers.

photo credit: Jennifer Bowen Photography

Thank you for everything mom. I love you immensely!

Scene: Invitations...Take 3...Action!

2009-05-05T13:44:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend I ordered samples of what will hopefully make up part of my invitations. I don't have the full design figured out, but little by little I'm getting there. This will be part II {actually part III, but I plead the 5th on that!} for me with invitations so I'm taking it slow this time around!

I can't wait until this wedding is over so I can get my sanity back!

(these aren't my invites, but I thought they were gorgeous enough to share!)

source: Lunar Ink Wedding Planning

They're Here!!!

2009-04-29T22:06:00.000-07:00

My charger plates that is! As you can remember from my posts here and here, I went a little coo-coo over the design element of my tablescape. I'm still currently sorting out more details, but I am just overjoyed with my charger plates. I think they are a great way to add a little pa-zazz to the table and incorpate color scheme. I decided on a gold studded-rimmed brass charger. Feast your eyes upon them:

They are mirrored so it was extremely hard to take a good picture of them without catching my reflection in it. They also get finger prints on them easily, so it will be white glove service for these babies. I had some napkins lying around so I decided to fool around with mock set ups:

It's amazing how details makes me all warm and fuzzy inside!

Something Borrowed, Blue, and Gorgeously New

2009-04-28T12:45:00.000-07:00

A little while ago I posted about my something borrowed and blue. The item is my great grandmother's brooch. She is no longer with us but I want to have something of hers with me that would connect me to her spiritually. Originally I was going to attach the brooch to my bouquet, but I've since changed my mind and decided that I will wear it in my hair.

Here's a picture of the brooch:

You're probably thinking, "ok now what are you going to put on your bouquet?" I'm glad you asked! I found this locket brooch and immediately fell in love. Not only will I have her blue brooch in my hair, but I can carry her picture in this gold vintage locket. And perhaps some day, I can pass it on to my little sister or daughter. Even more, maybe one day when I'm no longer here, my grand children or great grand children can read this blog and see how I came to this decision and how the tradition was started. Ok, that's enough, I'm such a sap!

Updates and Back Tracking

2009-04-24T18:41:00.000-07:00

I attributed my lack of posting lately on just needing a little break from my own wedding planning. I think it's quite natural for brides to come to a point {and maybe even several points} where they just want to put down the planning for a moment. I'm a little over a year away and so far

I've booked:

-Ceremony/Reception Site
-Photography
-Videography
-Florist
-Limousine
-DJ
-Hair stylist

In addition, I've purchased/made:

-Unity Candle Holder
-Unity Candle Supplies
-Ceremony Program Supplies
-Card Box
-Charger Plates
-Wedding Shoes
-My Wedding Band
-Memorial Bird Cage
-Trash The Dress Gown
-Aisle Runner
-Baskets for Ceremony Items

Mistakes I've made along the way:

-Purchasing invitation supplies too soon {falling in and out of love quickly}. Don't get me wrong, the invites I bought are beautiful, but they just aren't going to cut it for the overall "je ne sais quoi" of my wedding. Instead of throwing them away or selling them, let's just say I'll have the fanciest bridal shower invites in all everness. lol.

-Giving out too much info. I've learned that I can't disclose everything. That's what makes blogging hard at times. I want to tell it all, but if I do then there won't be any surprises later!

-Purchasing a guest book/supplies that I thought I was "in love with". I no longer like the idea I had, but I don't necessary feel stuck with the supplies because I'm sure I'll use them for something or someone else.

(Even though I've made my mistakes, they were with MY money. Can I just add that I HATE, HATE, HATE when people tell me what I "should" spend my money on or what I shouldn't "waste" it on. I don't get that often, but when it happens, it gets under my skin in the worst way)

Things that are currently on my mind/ to-do list:

-Get outfits for engagement photo shoot
-Design a Save-The-Date that I love 100% {have an idea in mind, just need to price it}
-Get my cake designed
-Officially book my make up artist {after trial}
-Officially book our pastor
-Details, details, details! (and boy oh boy are there a lot of them). This is actually my favorite part of the planning!

I do have a lot more to share as I continue down this road to marriage so just bear with me!

Honeymoon Madness

2009-04-22T18:42:00.000-07:00

One of the things that I've highly neglected during the planning of my wedding is the honeymoon. I've given it some thought and I came up with the perfect honeymoon for us at this point in our lives.

We're really adventurous people. We like to swim with dolphins, jet ski, and snorkel. We get bored easy and need to be stimulated. Of course we would love to relax, but we also want to come back home and say, "Oh my God, can you believe we did ___ {fill in the blank with something daring, fun, and halfway deadly}." While Hawaii, Italy and Bora Bora are my dream vacation spots, it's just not in the forecast right now.

Long story short, I am hoping to do a Caribbean cruise that leaves out of Puerto Rico for seven days. This will allow us to see different islands {5 to be exact I believe}, and appease our adventurous side with all the daring excursions. Then I would love to stay in Puerto Rico for a few days at a hotel on the beach. This will be the relaxing part of the honeymoon. Plus...and this is a big plus, there's a store in Puerto Rico that I fell in love with the last time I was there. They make authentic hand carved wood furniture and trinkets that I would love to buy and send back to our new home.

To say that I've been stalking the cruise line for July 2010 itinerary is an understatement. I've been fresh out of luck with my search- until today! Turns out, there's a ship that leaves out 3 days after our wedding which is just awesome. I'm hoping and praying that we can book it really soon. Forget the wedding, I'm ready for my honeymoon! :-)

Howdy!

2009-04-20T13:35:00.000-07:00

Bad bad blogger me! So here's a quick update {I'll get back to real posting tomorrow}:

On Saturday I visited the first spot were I would like to take my engagement pictures and just like a thief in the night, all the exhibits were gone! I was super crushed, but I know that they will probably put in something else equally edgy and cool. It just sucks because I had so many cool poses that I wanted to reenact with these fixtures. Oh well, can't cry over spilled milk, right? Right! So moving right along. I still need an outfit!

Champagne Taste, Beer Budget

2009-04-10T21:12:00.000-07:00

I was browsing the pages of Vouge a few days ago when I stumbled across the bracelet of my dreams.

It's by Tacori, which I absolutely adore. However with a starting price at 12k, it will continue to stay just where it's at: in my dreams!

The Hardest Wedding Decision Yet

2009-04-06T00:09:00.000-07:00

There's so many decisions to be made when planning a wedding. Everything from the font on invitations down to linen options requires an extensive thought process. But I have to say that choosing a first dance song has been the most teeth pulling decision yet.

Mr. Golden and I wanted a song that really summed up our feelings about each other and our relationship. Some songs were too over played, others didn't really "speak" to me, and then there were some that were too..."fairies and unicorn-ish". Now don't get me wrong, I love me some fairies and unicorn songs, but our relationship is NOT fairies and unicorns {I'm just keeping it real here! lol}. Our relationship is a work in progress, like all relationships should be. They need constant tending and nurturing {for better or worse, right?}

With that being said, we finally found the song that fit us and the crazy thing is that it had been staring us in the face for years {magic happens when you actually listen to lyrics!}. I'm not going to reveal what song it is just yet, but at some point I would like to compile all the songs we've finalized and put them on a cd similar to the ones below. Hmm, do I have another favor added to my list?

source: beau-coup

GAME OVER

2009-04-03T20:00:00.000-07:00

It didn't really take a ring on my finger for the "game" to be over for Mr. Golden. He's been on lock down for the past six years {haha!}. But I do love these t-shirts and can't wait to order one for him. I think it would be cute for him to wear it the morning of the wedding before he starts getting ready!

source: Designer Teez

A Piece of Art

2009-04-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

Take a look at these pics:

If you're wondering what the heck you're looking at, it's one of my engagement shoot locations. I wanted to go a different route with our e-pics so I decided on an artsy and edgy location for part I. Part II will be at a more romantic, scenic place {a.k.a. the place Mr.Golden proposed}.

We take our e-pics next month {insert "whoa!" here}. I can't believe how fast this year is flying by. I just hope and pray it doesn't rain since our whole e-pic session is taking place outside.

Now, the next dilema is how am I going to design our save the dates? Such hard decisions!

Jumping the Broom

2009-03-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

Mr.Golden and I have decided to incorporate this African American tradition into our ceremony. Unfortunately while browsing through the internet for brooms, I couldn't really find anything that really stood out to me. The brooms were either decorated too much or too little. I would like the broom to fit in with the decor of the wedding so I have another project added to my list {i'm not complaining though!}. My idea/plan is to place it over our front door inside our home after the wedding {hence, threshold}.

I have some inspirations flowing around in my head, so maybe this summer I'll do a trial run through. In the meantime, these brooms are pretty cute but not exactly what I have in mind.

photo credit: Stuart Creations

Add a Few More Golden Moments

2009-03-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

I started this week off by saying I had a lot of updates, so I'll end the week with this last piece of info:

On Wednesday there was a showcase at my venue. I went solo because Mr.Golden had to work, but I met up with a few friends I've met since the start of my wedding planning who are all getting married there as well {gotta love the internet!}. The weather was tolerable and it inspired me to take a walk through the garden. With each step I took, I wondered what types of memories Mr.Golden and I will make in those spots. Even with the little bit of wind that was blowing, I felt warm and fuzzy inside.

As I made my way back to the reception room I passed the ceremony location and took it upon myself to walk down the aisle. What an amazing feeling that is! I felt right at home, until the peacock started interrupting my thoughts with its hawking {boy oh boy are they loud}!

As I opened the door to go back inside, my mind was made up on what I was about to do next. I found my banquet manager {who is an absolute sweetheart} and said, "I need to add an extra hour to my reception!"

Yep you read correctly! One more hour to celebrate the love between my soulmate and I. Looks like we can do those table visits with no complaints after all! For anyone who is a faithful reader of my blog, you know how much sleep I lost over this. I know we have the rest of our lives to celebrate our love, but every bride has something(s) that they are unwilling to sacrifice and this is one of those things for me.

One more hour to hold my husband just a little longer, just a little tighter, just a few more songs to dance to...

seen on: project wedding

Pimp My Ride!

2009-03-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

I'll be adding this to my list of projects!

photo credit: Delightful Designs

My sister is having a boy!!! I have a ring bearer!!! And he will only be 11 months by the time of the wedding so my little pumpkin will have to ride in style since he may not be walking. What's even better is that once he gets tired at the reception, it can convert to a bed- now how golden is that?!?

Baby bling anyone? {now this may be a bit too "extra" even for my taste! lol}

photo credit: Arista Brat

Show Some I.D. Please!

2009-03-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

To have an adult only wedding or not: that is the question. I don't think there's anything wrong with kids at a wedding- just not mine...lol. Okay that wasn't very nice, was it?

Well let me clarify, there will be children at our wedding, but ONLY the children who are in the bridal party. I think that's fair enough. Mr. Golden and I just think it's best that way so I won't go into the boring reasons why we came to that conclusion.

But even with my "adult only zone" mind frame, I do get all tickled with joy when I come across photographs of kids at weddings- especially when they're up to mischief!

photo credits: Alain Martinez Photography

photo credit: Ross Oscar Knight Photography

Are you welcoming all children with open arms, or do you have restrictions as well?

Make Me Over

2009-03-24T11:42:00.000-07:00

I'm so super excited to have another wedding vendor taken care of...my makeup artist. Well, let me back track, it's not 100% official {but you might as well say it is}. I go for my trial in May when I do my engagement pictures. I have been eyeing this person's work for a while and I would just put it on the back burner. But the little voice in my mind kept saying, "this is what/who you want."

Makeup is extremely important to me even though I don't wear it on a daily basis {except a little eye shadow & concealer to hide my sleep deprived eyes!}. My motto is, If I'm paying "X" amount in photograpy and video, I want to be able to love the way I look when I see those pictures. This will be me on my wedding day:

photo credit: Daily Herald

I've decided on airbrush makeup because it's said to give a long lasting flawless, pore-less look. Plus it holds up to perspiration and doesn't rub off on clothes {which is a blessing because I am much shorter than Mr.Golden and tend to rest my face on his chest}. I can't wait for my makeup trial!

Bridal Shower Updates

2009-03-23T09:30:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had moments where you feel like you have so much to write about but you just don't know where to start? That's sorta how I've been the past few days. I have updates on a little bit of everything!

I think one of the exciting updates of all is that my bridal shower is no longer going to be a surprise. I talked about my bridal shower visions here. It was supposed to be a surprise up until last week when I found the most gorgeous dress {pics to come later}. It is a dress that requires a certain look and I need to be prepared. With a little persuasion {and after promising that my baby shower can be a surprise}, my mom gave up the details. Honestly, what she had already worked on far exceeded my expectations and now I am even more excited {2 grand kids for you mom! wink wink. lol}.

Here's a sneak peak of where my bridal shower will be:

Greeting Freakout!

2009-03-18T08:33:00.000-07:00

I am going down in wedding hell history for this one if I don't get my words out the proper way. I have been trying to figure out the best and most time efficient way to greet all of our guest. ::Exhale:: There, I said it!

Not that I don't want to spend time with my guests {because I honestly do}, I just don't want to be {how do I say this nicely}, interrupted the entire night. If it were up to me, I would have a three day weekend wedding affair and spend tons on quality time with each one of my family and friends. However, the blunt reality is that I have FOUR HOURS {not including cocktail hour} to mix and mingle. {Do you see where this is heading!}

Technically I have three options:
1) Do a receiving line
2) Join my guests at cocktail hour
3) Do table visits

I have issues with all of these options! Let's go through them, shall we!

A receiving line is cool and all, but I feel like they fit the best with church weddings. We aren't having a church wedding. And even if we did a receiving line, it's still common courtesy to make table visits. My other issue is that my cocktail hour starts IMMEDIATELY after the ceremony. I don't want people to miss out on the food and roaming the garden by holding them up in a line.

The next option is actually taking part of the cocktail hour with the guests. I have major issues with this. I always dreamed of a grand entrance at the reception {the whole idea of being introduced for the first time as Mr. & Mrs.}. I feel like that would be tarnished by us going to cocktail hour. Plus, cocktail hour may be the only time I eat that day and I'd really like to do that in private with just the bridal party. I think I might be too excited to eat at dinner {which is ok because I'll take my food to the hotel!}. So this option is out.

That brings me to table visits. 150-160 guests = 15-16 tables. That seems like one hour right there, YIKES...

When you do the math, that brings 4 hours down to 3. Add in the 1st dance, bride and father, groom and mother, bouquet toss, garter removal, garter toss, anniversary dance, cutting the cake...and I'm freaking out! Where is the party time!!! Two years of planning for 2 hours!!!!

This is why I need an extra hour added to my wedding!

A Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words...

2009-03-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

Or so they say. But I don't think Mr.Golden will have much to say after seeing my boudoir shoot that I'm planning to do sometime this year. I decided I wanted to do the shoot because lets face it, we all have a little Victoria Secret in all of us just screaming to come out.

I have to decide on the outfits I want for the shoot and then purchase them, but for now I've just been compiling some inspiration pictures of shots I'd like to re-create.

photo credit: Raw Photo Design

photo credits: Fedali Boudoir

Anyone else doing boudoir?

Ring Bearer Woes

2009-03-13T05:00:00.000-07:00

Oh how delightful would it be to have a ring bearer carry these moss ring holders {my my mouth to God's ears!}.

photo credit: The Ritzy Bee Blog

photo credit: Etsy

Let Us Eat!

2009-03-12T13:08:00.000-07:00

photo credit: Rodolfo Arpia Photographer

I'm amazed by how much this tablescape resembles what I want for my reception. Only difference is that my tables are oblong, I'm having floral centerpieces, and my table numbers will be an original Goldie creation. But, I must say that the charger plate and the way the napkin is folded with the menu tucked inside is pretty head on with what I was planning.

We're having a sit down dinner. Mr.Golden and I attended a wedding at Westbury Manor last year and I was amazed by the wait staff. The dining experience was one like I'd never had and Mr.Golden and I wanted to share that same experience with our guests. Upon being seated, our guests will pull out their menu card, tuck their napkin on their lap, and have a choice of seven delishes entrees. Here they are:

Veal Chop Fondue

Grilled and topped with melted cheeses

Amaretto Filet Mignon

Amaretto encrusted whole tenderlion of beef with red wine and strawberry glaze

Chicken Mirtillo Rosso

Breast of chicken with cranberry chutney

Shrimp and Salmon

Gulf prawn shrimp and filet of salmon pan roasted in champagne sauce

Sea Bass Provola

Baked Mediterranean Sea Bass provolone cheese and sliced tomato

North Fork

Grilled Portobello mushrooms, yellow squash, zuchini, asparagus and red and yellow Holland peppers

Duck'l Orange

Slowly roasted with apple bread stuffing served in orange glaze

Rumor has it that Mr.Golden and I get to sample all seven of these entrees at our sweetheart table...yum!

NYPD Blue

2009-03-11T10:51:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that Mr.Golden is a police officer {i love a man in uniform}. We have a "special" relationship. Being involved with someone in the workline that he does is not easy. There is not one day that passes that I don't worry about him and pray that he makes it home safe. I used to force myself to stay awake at night while he worked just to hear his voice when he got home. That didn't last too long after strolling into work late and having racoon eyes caught up with me. Now he sends me a text message when he gets home {as not to wake me}, and it's the first thing I check for when I wake up.

Holidays are like a jack in the box because I never know which ones he'll have to work and which ones he'll spend with me. All in all, we deal with it the best way we can. I feel that it is almost inevitable that we honor his career in some sort of way with the wedding because it is a really big part of the both of us. Here's two sneak previews of how we're planning to do it:

"Fidelis Ad Mortem" {latin} Faithful Unto Death

This is a quote that the NYPD goes by. Mr.Golden and I adopted it because of it's resemblence to marriage vows. "Fidelis Ad Mortem" will be engraved into his wedding band.

photo credit: AltWed

Something Blue...NYPD Blue!

How about this nice little number under my dress! Of course I would have to put my mark on it though!

photo credit: Garters by Kristi

Is anyone else planning to incorporate careers into their wedding?

Engagement Photo Shoot Fastly Approaching

2009-03-10T06:29:00.000-07:00

Is March seriously almost halfway done? Holy cow, I never even got the memo about January ending. But anyway now that I think about it, my engagement photo shoot is right around the corner in May. That leaves me with hardly any time to start seriously thinking about what I want to wear, how to do my hair, and scheduling the first of many {hopefully not} makeup trials.

We'll worry about one thing at a time, so today is all about hair. Since I'm doing my hair half up/half down for the wedding, I've decided to do it all down for my e-pics. Whether slightly wavy or straight, I know I want lots of volume. Here are my e-pic inspiration hair photos:

Now, on to wardrobe!

Pictures 1&2: African American Wedding Hairstyles & Hairdos
Picure3: Project Wedding

Walk on By

2009-03-09T12:12:00.000-07:00

So remember a few months ago when I bought my wedding shoes? You know the ones I wanted to keep top secret? Well, they're not such a secret anymore for a few reasons, so I decided I might as well show you all. Hope you like them, I love them.

I sure hope I don't see a million brides with these shoes from now to my wedding, otherwise I really won't want them {i've been like that all my life}. But it's okay, I still have a whole bunch of tricks up my sleeves regarding this wedding and all my many details. I just wish my countdown would speed up a bit so I can finally be able to show them off!

One year younger!

2009-03-09T09:54:00.000-07:00

photo credit: Maisie Fantaisie

Happy birthday to me! I wish I can have all of those cute mini cakes that you see above so that I can make a wish on each of them and blow out candles. In fact, I'd be happy with just one cake and one wish that I can be assured will come true. The unknown terrifies me and has been the cause for all my stress lately. But enough about that! Today- my birthday, I will put those worries to the side and enjoy the moment!

Have a great day everyone.

Happpy 100!

2009-03-03T10:17:00.000-08:00

This is my 100th post! I have nothing special planned to celebrate this blogging milestone. To be quite honest, I haven't really been focusing on my wedding lately. My mind has been concentrating on a place for Mr.Golden and I to live after the wedding {well, really before}. We've decided to start actively looking by next February, but in the meantime, I've been doing my research on what's out there in our budget.

In keeping up with thoughts of a nest, My mom {golden mom} and I went and registered on Sunday. After two hours of scanning things, I'm sad to say that I'm still not done! Whoa, it's such a fun but exhausting activity! But let me show you some of my favorite items I'm really coveting!

Anchor Hocking Tifle Bowl:

Mini Trifle Set:

Egg Platter: {I make some mean deviled eggs!}

Monogram Wine Stopper:

Calphalon Contemporary Non-Stick 12 piece set:

Cuisinart Fondue Set:

Oh, and here's the real apple of my eye, my dinnerware:

My birthday is on Monday...maybe one of these things will come my way...lol. ;-)

If It Ain't Broke..

2009-03-02T05:00:00.000-08:00

...don't fix it...period!

I mentioned last week how much I've been anticipating starting the process of my bridal registry. I always envisioned that Mr.Golden and I would roam the aisles together scanning blissfully and smiling at each other all giddy like they do in the movies. Well, let me tell you my friends...

NOT HAPPENING! lol.

I think he'd rather get a root canal than spend 3-4 hours scanning knives, serving sets, and pots. And just to test my hypothesis, I took him to Macy's last week just to "take a look." Like always, I went crazy when I saw Waterford stuff, and made googley eyes at the variety of plates and cake platters. Mr.Golden on the other hand was not amused. And you know what? It's ok!

I can't expect him to enjoy every single part of the planning. So, I've given him a get out of jail free card and decided to make a mom-daughter bonding experience out of registering. I'm looking forward to it and c'mon let's face it, we all know that Mom's know best!

image credit: World of Stock

Who says trash can't be class?

2009-02-27T11:58:00.000-08:00

Today was the infamous running of the brides at Filene's basement. I had every intention of going in search of a trash the gown until I unexpectedly found one that I loved 2 weeks ago. In honor of today's event, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to talk about trash the dress shoots.

But then I saw this awesome trash the dress session by Rodolfo Arpia and I said to my self, "What could I possibly say, these pictures speak for themself!". Rodolfo Arpia is a super talented photographer and I'm mesmorized by his skill to capture great moments! I urge everyone to check out his website and blog, but for right now just look at this awesome photo shoot:

All Images Courtesy Of: Roldolfo Arpia Photographer

I can not WAIT to trash my dress! Congrats to all the brides who found their gown at today's running of the brides event!

Show & Tell

2009-02-26T08:52:00.000-08:00

I got a call yesterday from Mr.Golden. It went something like this:

Me: Hey, what's up?

Mr.Golden: Babe, do you love me?

Me: What! Of course I love you. What's going on?

Mr.Golden: How much you love me?

Me: What kind of question is that? I love you, you know I love you. I wouldn't be getting married to you if I didn't. Where are you?

Mr.Golden: I'll be there in 2.5 minutes.

Weirdness! I knew something was up, but I didn't know what. After going upstairs and settling in, he asked me to help me take off his shirt. Aside from two new tattoos being on his arm and back, there was this on his chest:

Was I shocked? Yes. Flattered? Yes. Ahh, he never ceases to surprise me. Now, in no way do I think this measures a persons' love and devotion, nor does he. But it's definitely some nice eye candy! ;-)

The First Man To Ever Love Me...

2009-02-24T19:39:00.000-08:00

I'm far from being a daddy's girl. My father and I have been to hell and back, but we're at a good place now and I appreciate all the tribulations that have brought us here.

One thing that can be said is that he has always been in my life. He's a great provider to my mother and my siblings, and he means well- even when he makes his mouth up to say things I don't neccessarily want to hear. I could never hate him, because as I've grown into a woman, I realized that I am him.

I love my dad. I may not show it as much as I should, but he was the first man to ever love me. I can't wait for him to walk me down the aisle. He jokes around that he can't wait to "give me away", but I'll never be away from him. He will always hold a special place in my heart.

Look at how the father in this picture looked at his "little girl". My dad is not the msuhy type of guy, but we'll see if he tears up when he sees me for the first time on my wedding day.

Photo Credit: Alain Martinez Photography

Here's me and my dad:

Armed & Dangerous!

2009-02-23T22:52:00.000-08:00

photo credit: flickr

I have been getting the bridal registry itch badly! I am ready to do some scanning damage in the stores. I didn't think that I would register until later this year, but something tells me I won't be waiting that much longer.

People usually don't reigster until approximately 6-9 months before the wedding. For the people who do it earlier, it's usually because they're planning an engagement party or people want to buy them engagement gifts-

or they're just crazy like me and need to be overly organized with an inventory of all the things Mr. Golden and I will need for our very first place!

My only dilema is that I'm not sure whether to register at one or two places.

Bed Bath & Beyond will be my primary place. I feel like I can get the bulk of my registry needs done there. Plus, I love their return/exchange policy and their coupons never expire!

If I were to add a second place, my contenders would be: {in order of preference}
Macys
Crate & Barrel
JC Penny
Bloomingdales

There's pros and cons with all my runner ups, but I'll save that for another post!

The BIG Reveal

2009-02-23T06:00:00.000-08:00

I've mentioned before that I'm seeing Mr. Golden before the ceremony. It was a no brainer decision for us because:

1) I know I will probably be a mess. I get so frazzled before huge events in my life. Even when Mr. Golden graduated from the police academy, I was a mess and it wasn't even my day! It's imperative that I see him because I know he will be able to tame my nerves.

2) I want to get all the formal pictures out of the way so that I can focus all my time and attention after the ceremony to just enjoying myself. I don't have a huge gap inbetween things and I've been already stressing over the fact of wanting an extra hour. In my book, there's no time to waste!

Anyway, nestled in the back among the 6 acres of garden at Westbury Manor, is a gazebo. And that is where Mr. Golden and I will have our big reveal. It will just be the two of us {along with the photographer & videographer}. I can't wait!

Check out these two great reveal moments:

Photos Courtesy Of: Rodolfo Arpia

Photo Courtesy Of: Alain Martinez Photography

A Walk Deferred

2009-02-20T20:51:00.000-08:00

Take a look at these two weddings and tell me what they have in common:

Wedding #1:

Wedding #2:

Photos Courtesy Of: Rodolfo Arpia

Besides them both being really beautiful weddings, the thing that both brides have in common is that they had one heck of a walk down the aisle! When I look at these weddings I can just imagine how much each bride was able to relish in her big moment while the music played softly in the background.

Unfortunately for me, my ceremony aisle is all of about 45 ft. long. This is one of the things that slightly irritates me about my wedding venue. Now I know that some people don't enjoy all eyes being on them and they would rather run down the aisle, but not me!

The song I'm walking down the aisle to is around 2 minutes long and I'm really going to make the most of it. I plan to walk in slow motion down the aisle and I'll tell my father to pull back my veil ever so slowly. I have no intentions of having my song faded out. I want to hear the whole thing because it's very sentimental to Mr. Golden and me. I will stall for time if need be!

Sizing Up Newlyweds :-)

2009-02-19T11:39:00.000-08:00

Mr. Golden and I have a tradition of looking through the latest Jet Magazine and flipping to the wedding section to size up the brides and grooms. We've done this even before we were engaged. Little does he know is that I've been sizing him up all these years to see what his taste in wedding gowns is.

I know he's going to love my dress {no worries there}. But the other day he called me up and said, "Hey babe, did you hear Ruben Studdard got married. His wife is pretty, I liked her dress."

Of course you know I had to drop what I was doing and google her dress! She did make a gorgeous bride! I don't know if Mr.Golden was trying to drop a hint or what, and I refuse to say if he is warm or cold in terms of if it resembles my dream gown! But anyway, I figured I share the pics from their wedding. Enjoy!

Images Courtesy Of: Essence Magazine

Congrats to the newlyweds!

Diva Etiquette

2009-02-18T23:36:00.000-08:00

Last Friday my mother and I attended the Anita Baker concert. She is one my favorite singers, but I have a bone to pick with Ms. Baker. The concert was supposed to start at 8p.m. She did not come on the stage until 9:02p.m.

Needless to say I was pissed off, and although she gave a GREAT show, I couldn't relax and enjoy it the way I should have because my mind was focused on the time constraint & the arrangements I made in advance for after the concert. As I sat there looking at the drawn down curtain on the stage, I couldn't help but think of how much it related to weddings.

As much as us brides would like to think that the wedding is about us only, the reality is that it isn't. Just as much as we have spent preparing and anticipating our big day, so have our guests. Some people have taken the time to travel from far away, others have left their children at the babysitter, and some people may have even taken a day off of work to share in our joy.

The important lesson I learned is to put away the Diva antics on the day of the wedding, or at least wait until the reception. Most importantly: be on time, it's only fair to us and our guests!

Loving Me Some Lenox!

2009-02-17T22:57:00.000-08:00

I don't know what I was thinking about in my post here about toasting flutes and cake serving sets. It must have been temporary insanity because I absolutely hate that set now, even the cake server which didn't seem so bad at first.

My new love is for the Lenox Jubilee toasting flutes and cake server set. Check it out:

It's not a question of whether or not these will be at the wedding, because they most definitely will. Lol. The real question is do I register for them and hope that somebody buys them for my shower, or just go ahead and get them myself?

Pssst...Take a look in my head

2009-02-17T21:27:00.000-08:00

There's a war in my head and it has been weighing down on me physically and mentally. If it weren't for my faithful readers, I don't even think I would have the strength to post. I have been on an emotional roller coaster this whole past week and haven't been the best company to those in my presence.

Anyway, I have been struggling with the issue over wedding wants vs. post wedding reality (i.e., rent, bills, funiture, light, gas, etc). Mr. Golden and I both live at home still. We'll come into this marriage with basically our clothes and a pet chinchilla. We need everything.

I ration whether it's more important to have uplighting or a living room set. Do I absolutely need to have plasma t.v.'s with zap shots at the reception, or should I really purchase them for our home to enjoy longer than 4 hours? Do I pay for an extra hour to party at our venue & relish in the joy that I spent over 2 years preparing for and over 6 years dreaming about, or do I call it a night after 4 hours and pray that the hands of time slow down on my day?

Ugh, I just needed to vent. Mr. Golden has some vacation days in March and I think I need to take a few days off as well. It's time to get back to the basics. He and I. Long walks, hand in hand reminding us what July 22, 2010 really signifies.

Currently Listening To: "Halo" by Beyonce

for you Mr. Golden ;-)

BIG NEWS!!!

2009-02-16T19:07:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone enjoyed their Valentines day and long weekend. Since I've neglected my readers for a few days, I hope today's post won't dissapoint!

Today I took a trip to David's Bridal with two friends and set out on a trash the dress gown {TTD}. I talked about my vision for a TTD gown in this post, and I thought I would find my dream TTD gown at this crazy event. However, being impatient paid off. Take a look at what I bought!

It was the very first dress I tried on and I just knew it was the one. With all the worrying I've been doing over money lately, I should feel guilty. But right now, I'm loving my second dress and can't wait to trash it!

What makes it even better is that I had the experience of going to a store to try on dresses and get a feeling of finding "the one" since my real wedding gown is being custom made.

Distance Makes the Heart Grow Fonder

2009-02-13T22:45:00.001-08:00

Excuse me for not posting since Wednesday. All is well with me, but I've been a little busy and had a gazillion things on my mind this week. I hope my faithful readers {and lurkers} have missed me as much as I missed them. I've always believed that a little distance only makes the heart grow fonder, so on that note, I'll be back on Monday with more golden moments!

Happy Valentines Day!

Sacred Moments

2009-02-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

Whether it's before or after the ceremony, I think it's very important to steal a few sacred moments with your significant other. When something big is happening to me, usually my nerves are shot. This is one of the reasons why I need to see Mr.Golden before the ceremony.

All photos courtesy of: Aaron Almendral

Gon' Make Me Loose My Mind...

2009-02-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

Up in here, up in here. {Don't act like you don't know that song!} :) But in all seriousness I'm talking about the one...the only...running of the brides.

I found out a few weeks ago that it's heading my way. My colleague is going to kill me because I made her pinky swear not to blog about it on By Your Side Events. I thought that maybe if we didn't say nothing, people wouldn't find out about it and I would increase my chances of finding a "trash the dress" gown. Who was I kidding? Brides have the senses of a pit bull when it comes to this type of stuff. The very same day I told her not post it, I saw a million blogs announcing my little secret. ::banging my head on the wall::

But it's okay, you know why? Because I'm a mean-lean-bride-on-a-mission machine and I'm not afraid to get down and dirty to find my second dress! {oh yea, I took it there!} So you can be there or be square, but best believe I will have my crew and we have officially lost our golden minds! :-)

Excuse me while I go get some mascara to smear under my eyes!

Reception Items to Mull Over

2009-02-08T20:24:00.000-08:00

I never really wanted my own toasting flutes and cake server set, but it was only because I never seen anything that really suited my taste. I also cringe at the thought that my mother and father have NEVER used theirs since their wedding. It just sits in the china cabinet collecting dust.

However, I'm really looking forward to entertaining once Mr. Golden and I finally live together. I need to mention that we also found the song we want to cut the cake to last week, so that could have an influence on my feelings as well. Lol. Nevertheless, I vow right now before all my readers to reuse my wedding day toasting flutes and cake server!

Note: The pictures didn't post very well so I strongly suggest getting a better view here and here!

For now, this is the set I'm loosely pondering, but I guess I'll wait and see if I find something else. To be honest, the more I look at it, the more I don't like the toasting flutes. I not sure what it is, but they seem a bit gaudy to me. However I do really like the cake serving set. Ehhh, decisions, decisions. When in doubt, head to Lenox and Swarovski!

It's going to be A-ok!

2009-02-06T07:45:00.000-08:00

Last weekend Mr.Golden and I went to Westbury Manor to make another deposit on our hall. While there, I took the advantage to test my gold charger with their plates. If you remember, I had a small freakout in this post because I found out that their plates have red trim on them.

Here are the results of my experiment:

The charger absolutely complimented the table and really brought out my color scheme. And the plates? Ha! I barely even noticed the red! So now it's on to purchasing 175 of these babies. I'm going to buy chargers very similar to this but in a better quality. Crisis adverted!

Whatever Lola Goldie Wants, Goldie Gets...hopefully!

2009-02-05T12:03:00.001-08:00

Picture Credit

Oddly enough, my mind hasn't had a heart-to-heart meeting with my wallet in quite some time. This weekend, it's time for the two to get re-aquainted again. I'd be lying if I didn't admit that it has not registered in my head yet that there will be things I won't be able to get {what!!! tell me no? I don't think so!!!}

I'm determined to get everything I really want for my wedding but I know that Mr. Golden and I have other priorieties as well {such as where we will lay our heads after the wedding}. I think I'm still on the ground in terms of what we can swing, but there are 3 huge wedding extras that I really want. A girls' gotta do what a girls' gotta do. I'm a bride on a mission and I dare the calculator to stop me!

Repeat After Me: "I {insert name}"...

2009-02-04T20:38:00.000-08:00

The Stamp Bug

I'll be the first one to admit that I don't walk a straight line when it comes to tradition. My dress won't be white {it'll be ivory!}, I'm seeing Mr. Golden before the ceremony, and I won't be walking in to Cannon in D or "here comes the bride".

But there are some traditions that I am a stickler for. On my wedding day I will be saying traditional wedding vows. I don't know what it is, but something inside of me gets all tingly when I here them and I can't wait to say them to Mr. Golden.

I think writing personal vows is very sentimental and adds character to a ceremony, but I know that I'll be way too choked up to even attempt something like that in front of 150 of our closest friends & family. I would like to tell Mr.Golden how I feel about him and declare my devotion to him in my own words, but I want to do it in a more private way.

Since we are going to see each other before the ceremony, we decided to make the moment special by doing a big "reveal". We've also decided that we will write wedding vows to each other and exchange them during our private reveal. It'll be a great way to make a personal testament to each other before I even walk down the aisle.

I have quite a task ahead of me. I mean really, how do I put the pen to paper and formulate the words in my head to write vows to someone I love so much? Are there even words strong enough to match my emotions? I guess we shall see.

Luncheon Pictures!

2009-02-03T13:44:00.000-08:00

The night before I put together a little swag bag for the girls to take home. It didn't contain much, but I wanted to give them a little something to show my appreciation. Each bag had a copy of the "Bridesmaid Chronicles" {my very own newsletter, lol}, a scented candle, cute pocket tissues, photo keychain, postcard to my lovely blog {they better support my blogging!}, and personalized shirts.

Originally I only intended to do shirts for the bridesmaids and my mom, but something took hold of me and I ended up getting a shirt for EVERYONE who was attending. I had a total of 10 shirts, but that included my future mother in law, my grandmother, my godmother, and my little sister who's a Jr. bridesmaid.

The only difference in the shirts was that I got embroidery for my mom and I. Everyone else's was done a little differently, but please don't get me to start explaining it wrong! All the work for the shirts was handled by Shay's Corner. Shayla did a wonderful job and nailed my vision!

On the day of, my bridesmaids came rolling in one by one. We got off to a late start, but since my bridal party is all family and the luncheon was rather informal, I didn't stress it too much. In the middle is my cousin Nikki who is also my maid of honor. On the left is my little sister {mini-me}.

Nikki has the biggest boobs and I always sqeeze them. LOL. I think I've become a bad influence to my little sister.

I set out the bags on a table and had the rest of the shirts under a cloth because I wanted it to be a surprise to everyone.

Once everyone got settled in a little, I made an announcement telling everyone that they were dressed wrong for the occasion {they thought I was crazy at first}. Then I revealed the shirts.

Everyone made a mad dash to the bathroom to change! {mini-me is always in the mix!}

Not too soon after that, the Medndi started. Akiyo fit right in with my family and made everyone feel so at ease! There goes mini-me again, she was the first one to get henna!

This is my future mother inlaw's wrist. She opted not to do her hand {boooo!}.

My Godmother did her ring finger and the inside of her palm.

She could not part with my delishes deviled egg as she took the picture! She's going to kill me for posting this! {love you auntie!}

The dare devil of the day was none other than my mother. She got Mehndi on her hand, but since she has keloid skin and can't get tattoos, she decided to live out her dream of getting my father's name on her chest {ay yi yi...gotta love my mom and her henna boob}! lol.

Then it was my turn! I let Akiyo have creative reign to do whatever she wanted to me and I was so pleased with how it came out!

This is my hand at the end of the night after the mehndi was starting to dry and flake off.

This is how it looks after the Mehndi is all peeled off and it will remain this way for the next two weeks! I can't stop looking at it!

Here's my palm.

It was so much fun and I can''t wait to have more bridesmaid get-togethers!

The pictures didn't really do the event justice, but hopefully you'll get the jist of how things went!

Here's some random pics:

My flower girl was all over the place! Ever since she started walking, she can't be stopped. Let's hope she'll walk down the aisle with no problems on the big day!

She also ate from anyone's plate that had food!

A Teaser Pic

2009-02-02T11:35:00.000-08:00

{In this pic: my mother, sister and cousin}

I really hate to do this to you, but unfortunately I don't have all the pics in from the bridesmaid luncheon yet. I will say that it was really fun and my bridesmaids had a blast. I'm hoping that I will be able to do a full detailed post tomorrow, but in the meantime I'll do a quick review!

I have 1 Maid of Honor, and 3 Bridesmaids. I was down one bridesmaid at the luncheon because her job was giving her a hard time about taking off. The missing bridesmaid happens to be my older sister and we just found out last week that she is expecting {hence, the fish dreams I talked about in my last post}. Did you really think it was me??? Nope, not this sister! Give me another 6 years or so! I really hope it's a boy because I currently don't have a ring bearer and I think it would be so cute to have a little wagon decorated with tulle to pull "him" in.

The Mehndi artist was a HUGE hit. Everyone loved it so much that they want to get together in the summer and do it again.

The food, drinks and company were all amazing and I'm even more excited about the wedding now.

More pics to come...promise!

Countdown to Bridesmaid Luncheon!

2009-01-29T22:05:00.000-08:00

So the big day is almost here and I am feeling...exhausted! Don't get me wrong, I'm excited but there are still a few things to do and this past week has been eventful to say the least. Note to self: request a day off from work the day before ANY event, no matter how informal it may be.

Last night I put together the swag {I love this word} bags for the ladies. The day before, I received a very special package via UPS that I ordered for the ladies. All that's left to do is buy the food, prepare it, and have fun. Seems simple, but I'm in dire need of one of the mimosas from above.

Today I will be taking my grandmother shopping because she is making her lovely pineapple coconut cake from scratch. It is so good that it will literally make the most non violent person want to reach out and hit someone. LOL. Mr. Golden will not say "I DO" if I don't learn the recipe, so I will be getting my share of Domesticated Wife 101 this evening!

So I will be back on Monday, hopefully with lots of pictures to show you all. I wanted to hire a free lance photographer for the event, but the guy who my family usually uses is going away this weekend for superbowl {arg!}. But not to worry because I've passed the job on to Mr.Golden {he should be quite the happy one}!

Next time you all see me, I will be all Mehndi'ed up {is that even a word?}, and a few thousands poorer since I have to make a drop off deposit at my reception hall on Sunday. Excuse me while I barf. {lol}

Have a great weekend everyone!

oohh, p.s.

I have a huge announcement to make next week. I'll give you a hint {dreams of fish}!

Trash the Dress Anyone?

2009-01-29T07:42:00.000-08:00

Ok so maybe not to the extremes of the picture above, but my awesome photographer will be doing a trash the dress/ day-after shoot of me and Mr. Golden. I'm not sure if everyone is familiar with this, but it is basically where you get to take some artsy, out of the norm, pictures that you normally wouldn't dare to do on your wedding day for fear of ruining your dress.

Unlike the name, these photo shoots are not literally taken the day after the wedding. It is usually done after the honeymoon. Some people use their real dress, but I have been warned by Golden Mom {who's paying for my dream gown}, that only when hell freezes over will I be able to trash my gown {her words exactly}!

Sooo friends, I will be on the search for a second wedding dress {not to be confused with changing into a second dress at the reception, because I won't be doing that}. As some of you already know, my real dress is going to be custom made. For my second dress though, I want something already on a hanger. And of course, I will NOT be showing my real dress to anyone before the wedding, but I'm willing to share what I have in mind for a second dress.

I want something completely different from what I would normally go for. I love mermaid and fitted gowns but would never consider them as real options because I personally do not feel like a bride in them. But they are perfect for what I would need them for:

Images seen on: Project Wedding

So now I am on the quest for a beautiful but inexpensive second dress. Still to come: inspiration pictures of day after shoots.

Is anyone else considering trashing a dress?

Bedroom Wars & Truces

2009-01-27T14:56:00.000-08:00

I've been blessed with a man that doesn't snore {applause}. But, he is however, the ultimate sheet hogger. Leave it up to him, he'd say that I hog the sheets but since this is MY blog, that's my story and I'm sticking to it!

We also have very different sleep rituals. I like to sleep with the top sheet and blanket. That's the way it's supposed to be! He on the other hand, will toss the top sheet and only sleep with the blanket. I need complete quietness to go to sleep, he likes to let the T.V. watch him doze off.

What's even funnier is that we're both cuddlers but the side that we find comfortable to fall alseep on is different so we usually fall alseep in opposite directions. Married life should prove to be interesting once we're living together on a full time basis.

I'm thinking that the solution to these things is to have extra blankets handy to keep me warm, give Mr. Golden some wireless headphones so he can have the t.v. lull him to sleep, and I'll compromise by investing in a good ol' eye mask. After all, I would hate for us to have to come to this:

Ahhhh, the yoys of marriage!

The Wedding of the Year

2009-01-26T21:52:00.000-08:00

I apologize for my absence yesterday. My weekend was ridiculously busy. Saturday I attended an event called The Wedding of the Year (TWOTY) hosted by Long Island Weddings website. It is basically a mock wedding featuring a newlywed couple from last year who reinact their wedding. It is quite the production to attend since brides-to-be like myself get a chance to see vendors in action {although that didnt' help me very much since all my major vendors are booked}.

Nevertheless, it was also a great opportunity to win some fabulous prizes. Prizes included everything from free engagement pictures, DOC, jewelry, and a huge flat screen television. Yours truly wasn't fortunate enough this time to win anything although I really had my eye on a basket filled with kitchen-aid appliances, but there's always next year!

I had a really great time and enjoyed the company of a few great friends I have come to know really well off of cyber world. Here's a few pictures of the centerpieces provided by Crystal Willow Wedding Trees by Lisa Marie. I wish I had taken more pics, but I was too busy dancing and having fun most of the time!

On the way out they gave bride and groom cup cakes. They were delishis. I devoured them in the car on the way home. This picture was actually taken on my lap while waiting at a red light {I know, I'm horrible!}

I had a "moment"

2009-01-23T11:06:00.000-08:00

I knew it was sure to come, every bride goes through it at some point. I'm talking about bridezilla moments that keep us up until 4a.m. {true story}. Wanna see the culprit that made me loose sleep? Here it is:

Now let me explain. It wasn't the food that made me stress out, in fact, the food looks delishes. But if you look ever so closely at the trim on the plate, you'll see it's......dunnn dunn dunn dunn...RED!!! These are the plates at Westbury Manor {my reception hall}.

Can someone tell me why this red trim had me re-guessing my whole color scheme and wondering if my tablescape would be thrown off. Instead of going into calm planner mode, I literally freaked out!

I called my colleague and asked said:

"I am totally going crazy, do you think I should incorporate red into my color scheme. The plates have red trimming!"

"Absolutely not!"

"But"-

"NO"!

Losing that battle, I called Mr.Golden frantically and said:

"Babe, the plates have red in them."

"What are you talking about?"

"The plates at Westbury Manor have red trimming. I want gold chargers, it's going to ruin it!"

Silence...

"Do you think we should have an accent color?"

"You are out-of-control!"

Long story short, my colleague and fiance are right. I was bugging to the tenth power. There will be no color scheme changes. Mr.Golden made me realize that I hadn't even noticed the red on the plate when we went to a wedding there this past summer and the color scheme for that wedding was pink! I guess I'm entitled to a few crazy bride moments but I have to limit myself. I've vowed to never be one of "those" brides- and by "those" I mean this:

{one of my all time favorite episodes!}

Have a great weekend everyone, I'll see you all back on Monday!

Honest Scrap! I've been tagged!

2009-01-22T19:38:00.000-08:00

The oh so kewl Katie over at Tripping Down the Aisle tagged me for the Honest Scrap award. Thank you Katie! *Hugs*

Here are the rules of the award:
1) Choose a minimum of 7 blogs that you find brilliant in content or design
2) Show the 7 winners names and links on your blog, and leave a comment informing them that they were prized with "Honest Scrap." Well, there's no prize, but they can keep the nifty icon
3) List at least 10 honest things about yourself

So here's 10 random things about myself:

1. I have five tattoos {none of which anyone can noticebly see}.

The secret places are my lower back, stomach, upper left shoulder, and my eyebrows.

2. I never make my bed in the morning, but I always HAVE to make it at night just to get in it. I hate sleeping with crooked sheets.

3. If I could have any other career other than event planning, I would be a dolphin trainer. I even researched the criteria, but was not willing to start another degree.

4. I love to dance and have a habit of learning all the newest dances that come out. I thought I would grow out of it but...no! In fact I'm currently trying to learn the "single ladies" choreography. I will dance anytime, anywhere!

5. I've been working since I was 15 {some of my teen jobs were Pet Land, grocery store, Claire's Accessories, and the Gap}

6. I'm deathly afraid of pigeons. NY pigeons are the worst!

7. My mom couldn't hold me until I was 3 days old because I swallowed fluid when I was born and had to be put in an incubator.

8. I coached my mother during the birth of my twin bother and sister. It was so beautiful!

9. I try to wear something gold everyday {even if it's just a bag or scarf}

10. I tend to be very territorial because I was the only child until I was 16 years old, but I'm learning how to let go...lol.

Now I'm supposed to tag seven people, but I want to open it up to anyone who wants to participate!

Table For Two Please...

2009-01-21T21:54:00.000-08:00

Flickr

I am a long ways from thinking about the seating chart for our guests, but I do know where Mr.Golden and I will be sitting on our wedding day. Although there are so many variations of where the bride and groom can be seated, I am really fond of the sweetheart table.

Besides wanting to be the center of attention for one day {lol}, I like the sweetheart table because it will give me an opportunity to look at everything going on in the room.

Source

On top of that, I want to be able to steal golden moments with my new husband, like holding his hand...

Jasmine Photography

And sharing an inside joke or two...

Jasmine Photography

That will make me burst out with laughter and lean over him and say, "Oh honey, you are so silly!"...

Jasmine Photography

His leg may brush up against mines as a way of saying, "I adore you"...

Amy Raab Photography

And maybe we'll steal some sweet kisses here and there...

Seen on: The Knot

Have you figured out your seating arrangements yet?

A Sneak Peek!

2009-01-20T23:41:00.000-08:00

My upcoming bridesmaid luncheon has been the attention of quite a few of my threads. I've posted here , here , yet again , another , and another. As you can see, I'm anticipating it to be a really nice {but laid back} affair. The way I see it, this luncheon will be pretty much kick start the activities of my wedding.

Now that the invites have been officially put in the mail, I can finally share them with you all!

Each of my special ladies will receive a gold pocket sleeve envelope:

It'll be addressed to them personally:

They will pull it out of the sleeve:

Each card states: "Golden moments make golden memories"

I can't wait to see what kind of memories we will make at this event! Special thanks to my partner Eliana at By Your Side Events for helping me with my design concept! More fun details to come soon!

To Be Loved!

2009-01-20T22:27:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was tagged twice for a fantabulous award. I want to send a big thank you to Sony over at Bridal Bliss and Kiana over at Dot the I Wedding. You ladies are awesome and I enjoy reading your blogs as much as you enjoy mine! *Hugs*

Alrighty {that's my favorite word}, so I have to tag 10 other booming blogs. {aaaaah, the pressure!}

1. Put the logo on your blog or post. (You can highlight the photo and text of this post and copy/paste wherever you need to...start your highlight from the bottom up to get the photo)

2. Nominate at least 10 blogs which show GREAT ATTITUDE and/or GRATITUDE

3. Be sure to link to your nominees within your post.

4. Let them know that they have received this award by commenting on their blog.

5. Share the love and link to this post and to the person from whom you received the award.

Well, here it goes: {I know some of these people have been tagged before, but I just wanted to show some love to their blog!}

1) The Buckeye Bride

2) The JTA Experience

3) That [Engaged] Girl

4) A Tale of Two Brides

5) Authentically U! A "Diamond & Sapphire" Bride

6) Confessions of a Scatterbrained Bride To Be

7) My Dream Ring

8) Relentless Bride

9) Wedding Peephole

10) Tripping Down The Aisle

11) A Small Town Bride

12) Once a Bride

Wheww! I definitely should have grabbed a snickers for this post!

Assessing Your Hair Accessorie Style

2009-01-20T11:19:00.000-08:00

I first posted here about being torn over how I would wear my hair for my wedding day. Then I posted here after I came to a final decision. I'm so glad that I've narrowed the choice down. Now, all I have to do is decide on the perfect hair accessorie.

I'm not really a tiara or head band type of girl. They look pretty on other people, but I just don't think it fits me. I am more of a hair broach, hair pin, or hair comb type of girl.

This is one of my inspiration pictures:

Pictures 1-4 courtesy of Project Wedding

And here are some pretty hair accessories I've found that I will be on the hunt for:

If I had decided to go with an updo {which I no longer want}, I think these hair pins would have complemented the look gorgeously:

Pictures courtesy of White Aisle

So what type of hair accessorie bride are you?

Thinking wayyyy ahead: Anniversary Band

2009-01-15T23:28:00.000-08:00

I a very modern girl, but I do love and value antique things. For my engagement ring, Mr.Golden chose a 3 stone princess cut ring that I absolutely adore. Before being engaged, I didn't even really know what kind of ring I wanted {he's much better at diamonds than I am}. But I think he did really good and exceeded my expectations.

Once I started learning more about diamonds, I automatically knew that I wanted my five year wedding anniversary band to be a colored stone in an antique setting. Reading the lovely blog of AmyJean, writer of the Relentless Bride last week, actually gave me the inspiration to set out and look for examples of what I like {her ring is gorgeous!} . Take a look at what I came up with!

{Don't worry Mr.Golden, I'm just browsing. You have six years to prepare! lol}

I either want a brown sugar or canary yellow/gold stone. I'll show them in order of "loving it" to "baby, get your credit card out now!"

Diamonds By Janet

Source

{Cough...baby...cough...please...cough...for...cough...me...cough...?...}

Delegance Jewelry

Has anyone else given thought to their anniversary band? And if you haven't seen my e-ring and wedding band yet, be sure to check out my post here!

Don't want to be just another stepford wife

2009-01-15T20:38:00.000-08:00

New York weddings are great, in fact, they can be grand events. However, I can't help but feel that some weddings look identical to each other, just trade out the bride and groom.

I mean for the most part, New Yorker's are pretty much set up once they sign the contract to their venue {depending on where it's held}. They have their catering, liquor, cocktail hour, wedding cake, table linens, and sometimes even chair covers. If they're lucky, they may even get a chocolate fountain or specialty bar drink thrown in. Nothing else to do, right? Wrong.

I'm determined as a bride and planner to set my wedding apart from the rest, and incorporate the personality and style of Mr.Golden and I. What's even better is that I don't feel like I have to go over the top {or deep in my wallet} to do so. The secret is in the details.

Detail #1 that I'm coveting: Charger Plates

I think charger plates are a great way to spruce up a table and incorporate a wedding color. They can be on the pricey side considering one is placed at every setting, but this is one area I'm willing to sacrifice.

Now the way I see it, a girl has got a right to dream {and boy oh boy, I'm a dreamer!}.

House to Home

Classic Party Rentals

But realistically, this is the look my budget will probably be able to pull off for a guest list of 150 people {not as elaborate, but will definitely make a statement with all the other details I plan to incorporate in the tablescape}.

Linen Effects

Not Your Typical Registry Items

2009-01-13T13:39:00.000-08:00

I haven't really put too much thought into my registry even though it's one of the things I'm most looking forward to doing. Mr. Golden and I will probably get that done by the fall of this year. Every time we step foot into Bed Bath & Beyond, I can tell he gets a little nervous about my eerie excitement to go trigger happy with the scanner!

But I will save the talk about BBB for another day. Today I want to talk about the non typical items that will definitely have to go on our registry {or at least be purchased by us}. Here they are:

Robins Sports

Now before you start rasing eyebrows, let me state that there is no domestic violence going on, lol. But I must admit that Mr.Golden and I loveeeee to play fight {and I usually always win...or at least he lets me, lol}. I don't know what it is, but it's always been our thing, and I swear sometimes it's like we can't cuddle and act civilized until we get a few playful rounds in of wrestling and knocking each other up.

Mr.Golden is extremely silly at times and I think he purposely thinks of ways to push my buttons {in a good way}. It should be very interesting to see how it's going to be when we live together, but I know we will need a good set of boxing equippment {and some thick walls as not to disturb our neighbors} to settle scores! I'm loving these gold ones for me, oh yea, bring it on!!!

Seriously, What is Wrong With Me?

2009-01-13T11:47:00.000-08:00

I still have not done the invites to my bridal party luncheon. My goal was to have them out early this week, but it looks like they will be getting mailed out early next week. I am working on the design template today and maybe just maybe, if I'm good, I'll be able to mail them out first thing Friday morning.

I guess I've been slacking since technically, all my girls know about the event and have already cleared their schedule off for that day. But notifying them by only phone just won't do- or should I say- is not how I do things.

I've been emailing the embroidery company I'm using back and forth today in order to get the shirts I'm having done for my bridesmaids set up.

Still on my list of things to do:

-Buy ingredients for the lunch

-Put together favor bags

-Update bridesmaid newsletter

-Work on questionnaire {this will help me decide on what to get them as gifts for the wedding}

-Inquire about having the event photographed and filmed to start the process of my wedding documentary for the video montage.

How did my luncheon get this big? lol.

To Hyphenate or Not: That is the Question

2009-01-12T22:24:00.000-08:00

I always knew that I would hyphenate my name when I got married. It just seemed like the right thing to do. I love my maiden name, it is a part of my identity and I couldn't imagine totally dropping it.

If you knew my family, you would understand why I am so attached to my maiden name. We are a crazy bunch! {in a mostly good way!} There are actions and situations that we have coined after our last name. Certain things that I do, people will automatically say, "Oh yea, she is definitely a {insert maiden name}". It is who I AM!

On the other hand, I love Mr.Golden's name as well and I definitely want to be a part of him. I will have people address me only as my married name after the nuptials because I think it sounds really funny saying "Mrs. Maiden-Married." However, on all legal documents, I will be Mrs. Extra Long Name {total of 28 letters including 1st and middle name}.

Ahhh, this is reminding me of one of my all time favorite childhood books: Tikki Tikki Tembo. Please tell me you remember this book! lol. {the child's name was Tikki tikki tembo-no sa rembo-chari bari ruchi-pip peri pembo!}

What do you plan to do?

1/12/09 Do You Know What Today Is?

2009-01-12T00:25:00.000-08:00

It's the 6 year anniversary of Mr.Golden and I. WOW, six years! We came a long way since the Gap when I was rocking pink timberland boots at the staff meeting where we first met! I don't want to get too mushy, but I just want to say to Mr.Golden {because he reads my blog..lol} that I love you and I'm counting down the days til we're husband and wife!

I dedicate this song to you!

Rejected {but still loved} ideas?

2009-01-11T21:58:00.000-08:00

I have notebooks filled with ideas that I "just had" to have for my wedding when I first started planning. But along the way, some things have been scribbled over with a big fat no. Then there are things that I still love, but had to put to the side because it's impossible to incorporate every single idea.

So I figured if I can't have them, I might as well share the ideas with someone else and possible inspire another. This is supposed to be a therapeutic way of "letting go" so I'm really hoping that I don't run in circles while sharing these ideas with you all!

*Walking down the aisle barefoot*

I really wanted to do this. I think it's so peaceful and serene being barefoot. I don't quite know the entirety of what it symbolized to me when I first thought about it, but it brought up thoughts and emotions of purity and walking into a new life. It's like saying, "Here. Take me as I am." {don't laugh, I'm trying to be serious!}

***

And then I thought it would somehow tie into my African American heritage with the whole concept of jumping over the broom. I don't know, maybe I'm just crazy. But a few years ago I used to take up West African and Caribbean Dance and being barefoot was the number one rule.

In my head I picture walking over a bed full of roses on the ground, continuing with the ceremony, jumping over the broom, and then putting my shoes on after the recessional. And even though my dress will cover my feet, at least I will know that they are barefoot and I think it would make for some great photo opts. Maybe I could talk to my pastor and see if there are any religious ways this can be incorporated into the the ceremony.

Now that I'm thinking it out fully, I don't know if I'm ready to part with this idea. What do you guys say, yay or ney?

Shoella

Source

Beach Bride Jewelry

Orchard Cove Photography

Be There Or Be Square!

2009-01-08T22:06:00.000-08:00

I'm talking about Bride Wars! I'm hoping that it's as good as the previews make it look. But either way, I can't possibly forgo seeing it this weekend and then being the odd ball on Monday while everyone else is talking about it.

So I'm encouraging everyone to grab a friend or two, or ten and make it a girls night out- I know I plan to!

Have fun everyone and enjoy your weekend!

I've been a bad girl...Spanx Me!

2009-01-08T18:09:00.000-08:00

Ok, well the truth is, I've actually been a good girl lately {for once, lol}. I've managed to lose 8 lbs, and I can already feel the difference in some of my clothes. Watching what I eat, stopping when I actually feel full, and drinking water has contributed to my recent weight loss. It's a good kick start but I still have another 10 lbs to reach my goal {I'm trying to get back to my size 4 days}.

So until I start working out and toning up, I've decided to invest in a good ole spanx. These things work wonders. They suck up everything and keep it all in place. I have an event to attend in two weeks and I bought a nice form fitting sweater dress that I plan to wear- my spanx will be my date!

If you don't already have one, get one. And if you have the body where you don't need one, I officially envy you. lol {just kidding}

All Images: Spanx

Wardrobe Frustrations

2009-01-08T09:04:00.000-08:00

Don't you just hate when you see something in your head but can't find it in the stores? That has been my dilema with a blazer I have been searching high and low for. What's even worse is that I saw this blazer in a store almost 3 years ago, but I didn't buy it at the time because I was trying to be budget friendly.

Now with my engagement shoot just around the corner in May, I have been thinking about the look I want to pull together. I have a very vibrant personality, and I want my clothes to reflect that in my engagement shoot. My ideal outfit would consist of an ivory shirt, gold blazer, dark blue jeans, and gold pumps. I want the blazer to be funky and petite {stopping just around my navel or right above my hip bone}, and if it could have some type of design on it, that would be even better.

Here are some inspiration pictures that come close, but doesn't quite cut it:

Nordstrom

Victoria Secret

BeBe

Gold blazer, where art thou?

Mehndi Artist...Officially Booked!

2009-01-07T20:43:00.000-08:00

Last night I officially sealed the deal with the mehndi artist. Her name is Akiyo and she is super sweet. I look forward to having her at my bridesmaid luncheon and working with her on future endeavors. For a full bio on Akiyo and to see more of her work, check out my post here.

Keep It Right "Hair"

2009-01-06T09:46:00.000-08:00

One of the recurrent things I stress over is my wedding day hair. Hair is very important to me because I believe it alters a persons' mood. I can't begin to tell you how invigorated I feel when my hair looks good. I posted here about some of my concerns over hairstyles, and I thought I had came to an ultimate decision, but who was I kidding? Us brides never come to final decisions as long as there's time on the clock to re-think! I don't really care that I'm getting married in July anymore, I WANT my hair down {well, half up & half down} because it is the element I feel most comfortable and sexy in.

When I envision myself on my wedding day, I alway picture my hair to look like this:

And I plan to top it off with a hair broach or comb, like so: {more to come in future posts on hair combs/brooches}

Project Wedding

I've already talked to my hairstylist and she doesn't think I'll have anything to worry about. The way I see it, at least by the time I start dancing like crazy, I would have taken all my formal pictures. And I'll put a whole can of hair spray so that it'll last against New York's summer humidity!

Now of course this means that the hairstyle for my egagement shoot has to be changed, but that's a whole other blog post! Stay tuned!

Mehndi Artist...Almost Booked!

2009-01-05T11:19:00.001-08:00

In fact, I just got off the phone with her and I am SUPER excited. I just have to finalize some stuff with her and send a deposit and it will be a done deal! Two hours of Mehndi design with my awesome bridesmaids, mother, and God mother is going to be amazing. I just realized this morning that Mr.Golden is on vacation that weekend so maybe he'll come towards the end of the luncheon {girls only event!}

I'm so glad that my budget allowed for it because it wasn't looking too good at one point considering I had to get some unexpected work done to my car.

Even though I'm not hindu, I am half Trinidadian. Trinidad is a mixed country made up of West Indians like myself and Hindu people. Even some of the soca and chutney music that I listen to have versus in Hindu language {Hindi} in it, so I am not totally off my rocker by incorporating this culture into some of the aspects of my wedding!

I can't wait for my hands to look similar to this:

Source

or maybe this:

source

And because I'm the bride, she mentioned that I could get my feet done if I want to {and if time permits since she charges by the hour}:

Source

I can't wait til the 31st!

Blog Face Lift

2009-01-02T20:56:00.000-08:00

I decided to spruce up the blog a bit by redesigning my header. I still have a few more tweaking to do on other parts of the blog so just bear with me!

Oh, and I also added a custom signature {see below}.

New year, new look. Whatcha think?

Love At First Sight

2009-01-02T11:52:00.000-08:00

I fell in love this week and it wasn't with Mr.Golden {clutch the pearls}. Instead, I have been weak in the knees over a wedding cake! And not just any wedding cake...my very soon to be {because I just gotta have it} cake.

If loving this cake is wrong, I don't wanna be right. I have never put more than 10 seconds of thought into my wedding cake. In fact, I actually scratched it off my list of things-to-do because my reception hall provides the cake in our package {from an outside bakery}. I've seen the cakes they provide and let me just tell you, they're nothing to write home about. In fact, the bakery that provides the cake has very poor craftsmanship in my opinion {cracked fondant, very visible dents in the fondant, unsmooth buttercream}. I don't want to bash the bakery, but it's honestly not up to par and wouldn't leave a lasting impression on my guests if I went with them.

I've seen some pretty wedding cakes. They're everywhere! But until this week, I hadn't found one that "spoke" to me. Then I laid eyes on this cake and it called out my name in five different languages:

source

This cake has all the elements I want {the scalloped bottom, the scroll draping, bling, and details for days}. It's absolutely golden in every way and represents the overall feel I want for my wedding. Of course, I couldn't have it with as many layers. I only have 150 guests to feed whereas this cake was meant to feed 400 people. But I don't mind faking the funk with some fake layers to add height and drama! There's no letting go now that I found my true love!

New Blogger Award

2009-01-01T19:20:00.000-08:00

I was so ecstatic when I logged on today and saw that The Relentless Bride nominated me for this award. It really feels good to know that my blog is appreciated because I truly do try hard to keep you all entertained as I work out the madness surrounding my big fat ~~Greek~~ African American/Trinidadian wedding!

I'm supposed to nominate 10 other blogs, but she mentioned some really good ones on her page already! And I have to admit, in the past two months that I've been blogging, I've done more focusing on my material than searching other blogs.

That led me to think, if you're out there reading and you like what you see, pretty please drop me a line and introduce yourself. I would love to check out other people's fabulous blogs and make some blog buddies!

Reflecting and Looking Forward

2008-12-31T16:41:00.000-08:00

2008 taught me a lot. It was a year that had its ups and downs, but I was able to put a lot of things into perspective. Although I have been ready for this year to be over with, I have to admit that I am a little nervous about 2009 because I have a lot of new beginnings about to take place. And it also means wedding crunch time. Here are some of the wedding related things I'm looking forward to in 2009.

Bridal Party Luncheon
Engagement Photo Session {most likely in May}
Getting my dress drawn on a piece of paper and then seeing it come to life bit by bit
Sending out my Save the Dates {In July}
Boudouir Photo Session
Registering
Assessing the budget to see if some of my "extras" can be accomadated {crossing my fingers on this!}
Hair trail
Make up trial {1st of many probably}

I'm sure I'm forgetting something, but just continue to ride this journey with me and make 2009 a golden year! Happy New Year everyone!

Day Of Jewelry

2008-12-30T22:19:00.000-08:00

I have been thinking about my wedding day jewelry lately. I'm not ready to purchase anything but I do have a pretty good idea of the look I want to go for.

When it comes to bracelets, I'm all about width. I think that bracelets that have width to it photograph so much better. Here are some of my favorites:

Regina B.

Emitations

Anna Bellagio

I highly doubt that I will wear a necklace because my dress is pretty much going to be all "blinged" out. And to add, I really love big earrings- always have and always will. I am positive that I will be wearing some sort of drop earrings or chandelier earrings- whatever they are, they will be big! I wouldn't want big earrings to clash with a necklace. I think it would be too much going on. And sometimes necklaces irritate me because they don't always stay in place. On the one day in my life when I am going to be photographed the most, I would hate to get my proofs back and see my necklace croocked {definitely a pet peeve}.

Here are some of my favorite earrings:

Regina B.

Emitations

White Aisle

Now of course all jewelry will have to be gold toned like so. It's only fitting! These actually go really nice with my shoes...hmmm, are you thinking what I'm thinking?

Anna Bellagio

Does anyone else know the look they want to have for their wedding day?