Wedding Planning: 17 Weeks to Go

Remember back in January when I gave you a little peak at my wedding to-do list?  Well, the weeks have passed, and progress has been made.  For those of you out there who have already survived the wedding planning process, you can probably sympathize that the to-do list never seems to shrink.  In fact, it feels like it's constantly growing.

Lately, my lack of blogging has been caused (in part) by many wedding-related distractions.  We're not exactly busy planning our big day at every waking moment, but I still manage to spend the majority of my internet time agonizing over the most important things in life such as flowers and linens and bridal shoes.... even song selections have taken over my brain.

So, if you in the mood for an update (if not.. bear with me, I'm making this list mostly to remind myself that some things have been accomplished), here's a partial list of what's keeping me busy:

• Venue
• Musicians
• Florist
• Cakes
• Rings
• Menu
• Bridal Jewelry
• Booking Honeymoon (We're going to Bermuda!)
• Photographer
• Erik's suit & suits for groomsmen
• Finalizing invitations
• Deciding on photobooth options 
• Uplighting
• Veil
• Shoes
• Rehearsal dinner outfit
• Post reception outfit
• Bridesmaids dresses (3 different dresses for 3 different girls makes this too complicated)
• Choosing flowers
• Finalizing bar items (the venue's sangria will be our signature drink!)
• Choosing table linens
• Purchasing lanterns for reception
• Favors and Gifts
• Finalizing everything ceremony-related (vows, songs, etc.)
• And finally, completing a major list of do-it-yourself projects including luminaries, a cupcake stand, family photo display, card table, escort cards, flower containers, outdoor sign, etc.

As our decisions become smaller, I'm having a much more difficult time.  The venue/food/music choices were simple for us, but I can't believe how hard it is for me to decide how the reception tables should look.  And if you think I'm being dramatic, just take a look at my ridiculous number of pins on Pinterest!  I'm actually seriously considering blogging about my wedding plans a bit more just so that I can keep a more accurate record of my ideas and things that need to be done.

I will leave you today with a few photos that have provided major inspiration for all of my planning so far:

A Few Magic Words

On our way home from vacation this weekend, Erik said a few magic (one-of-the-many-reasons-why-I-love-you-so-much) words:  "Do you want to stop and visit any of those outlet stores?"  

Although exhausted and not particularly in the mood to shop, I couldn't pass up the opportunity.  And luckily, these sandals and dress were quick finds and great staples for my summer wardrobe.  I've already managed to wear this outfit to an engagement party and work today--and I'm sure I'll wear it another few times before we even get to June...

 

Dress & Sandals: Loft Outlet

Necklace: The Limited

Watch: Michael Kors

Sweater: Talbots

Belt: Loft

Time in the Country

Tonight my week-long break comes to an end.  It's never easy to return to setting the alarm clock, but I have to admit to feeling well-rested and ready to take on a new work week.  

I wore this outfit on Friday when we spent the morning enjoying my parents' horses, playing with the dogs, and eventually making the 6 hour drive back to suburban life.  Simple outfit for a day of simple pleasures... the time out there never lasts long enough. 

This is Deuce, my sister's pup who thinks horse grain is tasty.

 T-Shirt & Jeans: Gap

Oxfords: Urban Outfitters

Sweater: J.Crew

Sunglasses: Loft Outlet

Bridal Jewelry

In my last post I mentioned my visit to Tejani jewelry store in New York City, and I thought I'd share the jewelry I'm choosing to wear on my wedding day in August.

I'm excited that my gown (from Wedding Atelier) is a simple design that will allow me to style the dress two very different ways.  For this reason, I needed two sets of earrings with a vintage feel to them.  I happened to find and fall in love with both of these earrings through Google.  Because I was in New York last weekend,  I was fortunate enough to be able to make my decision in person.  And although all of Tejani's jewelry is beautiful, I ended up staying with my original choices.

Now I just have to make a few more accessories decisions, including a bracelet.  I loved these two options but couldn't make a final decision at the store.

Their bangles are great because they are sized XS--XL.  I also love that all of their pieces come in different finishes: silver, antique silver, gold or antique gold.  

So what do you think?  Any former brides out there who have made a purchase from Tejani?

Images from www.tejani.com

**I am not sponsored by Tejani, just excited about my new purchases and happy to share the details with all of you!

Pardon My Absence, it's Spring Break!

Why hello, world... you sure look a little brighter when I'm enjoying a week of vacation!  The past several days have been computer-limited, but certainly fun-filled.  

Over the weekend, I met up with my family and spent Easter in Brooklyn.  My aunt gifted Erik and I front row seats to the revival of Evita, which was so fantastic.  Sitting three feet in front of Ricky Martin was exciting... the entire cast was absolutely great!  The show was so compelling, I even forgot to pull out my camera at the end for some close-ups :(

My sis and I made a second trip into Manhattan the following day to revisit my wedding gown.  I had an accessories appointment, which was fun and overwhelming.. and very exciting.  I bought 2 pairs of earrings from a great little jewelry store in the fashion district.  If any brides out there are looking for jewelry, I can't recommend Tejani enough!

Now we're out in the country, spending a relaxing few days away.  Sleeping in...

and perusing through vintage family photos...

Grandfather, Grandmother, Great Aunt, Great Uncle, April 12th, 1947-- yes, my aunt and uncle are celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary tomorrow!!

My Great Aunt Dorothy-- 6 months old in 1924.

And finally, I'm long over-due for an outfit post, so I'll share some version of what I've been wearing for days: my favorite new skirt!  This guy has been paired with blazers, sweaters, t-shirts, and finally a white oxford.  Yes, I'm still wearing boots, because it was snowing today (ugh). 

Perfect Oxford: Gap

Boots: Macys

Earrings: Loft

Skirt: H&M

Double Dots

I figured that I probably shouldn't double up the dots and mismatch my shoes, but I just liked the strange combo and so I stuck with it.  Polka dots make me happy, and after I spent a few hours this weekend looking for sheer polka dot fabric for wedding table cloths, it must have seeped deep into the "what to wear to work" side of my brain this morning.

By the way... I'm in desperate need of finding this fabric!  Helpppp!

Blouse, Pants, Pin: H&M

Watch: Fossil

Flats: Gap

Lots of Questions

We had a big day at school last week because a very important visitor came in for a tour.  For me, it was a long day of rehearsals and running around before our program, so this easy outfit worked well.  The kids were fantastic and so excited to perform.  Lots of "Will he have bodyguards?" and "Is President Obama coming with him?" questions.

So adorable.

Blouse & Oxfords: Urban Outfitters

Scarf & Pearl Earrings: Macys

Watch: Michael Kors

Necklace: Forever 21

Cropped Pants: Loft

Blazer: H&M