Monday, October 31, 2011
362
After the roller coaster ride of the past week, I am happy that it is a new week and hoping for some happiness. I am BEYOND GRATEFUL for my life, my loves, my family and my friends. I am still on my Pinterst kick, still looking at wedding stuff and very excited about our future.
A smile is what life is about so I am going to try my best to keep one on my face this week along with my love ones..... :)
A smile is what life is about so I am going to try my best to keep one on my face this week along with my love ones..... :)
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Tomorrow is another day
Sometimes when it seems like everything in the world is going wrong, it is nice to have someone in your life to remind you that everything will be alright. This was not an easy week with all the things that have taken place but with family, friends and Scott by my side, I know that I will survive. Things are replaceable, People create memories to last a lifetime and we grow from it all.
And so it continues.....
Friday, October 28, 2011
Is He Wedding-Date Material?
This is an article for me to share with my single friends.....LOL
Hooray for having awesome friends who invited you to their wedding with a
plus-one! Just one issue: Who do you take? See if your candidates meet these
criteria before you extend the invitation.
1. You've hung out enough to know he's fun and normal.
A wedding reception isn't a second date kind of place. I don't think it's right as a third or fourth date venue either. To bring someone to something as a emotionally charged as a wedding, you really have to know that the person 1. won't freak out witnessing people pledge their lives to each other and 2. won't irritate you after six or more straight hours together.
2. He won't embarrass you.
A party animal can make a fun wedding date. There's also the chance that he can get so drunk that he pees or pukes on himself before the cake-cutting (ew). Your plus-one should be mature
enough to know the difference between having a good time and making himself (and maybe you, too) look like a fool.
3. He doesn't need to be babysat.
Whether it's your new boyfriend, your brother, or your gay BFF, you don't want to feel guilty about temporarily separating from him if you run to the ladies' room or get caught in
a conversation with other wedding guests. Not that you should ditch your date for extended periods of time, but if your potential plus-one wouldn't fare well without you — or would hold it against you if he had to fend for himself for 15 minutes — leave him home.
4. He feels similarly about dancing as you do.
Do your friends point to you when ABBA's "Dancing Queen" comes on? Then there isn't much
point to bringing a dance-a-phobe whom you won't hang with for much of the evening then. Likewise, if you prefer to stay glued to your chiavari chair, a dancing king isn't your ideal date.
5. He's cool with getting dressed up.
For every girl out there who hates strapping on heels and a strapless bra, there are probably two
or more guys who hate breaking out the suit jacket and tying a tie. You don't want to bring a guy who's not willing to dress the part. Feel free to remind him about appropriate wedding guest attire, but if he doesn't own a fitting outfit and isn't willing to pony up the dough for one, he's probably not psyched about going to a wedding with you. And you deserve a date who knows how lucky he is to have you on his arm!
6. He's not a gigantic flirt.
Personable is great. Chatting up everyone in a dress (which will be, oh, half the guests), not so
great. You need to be able to trust that he'll be with you for the night. Even if you two aren't seriously dating each other, he's still your date.
7. He's not a complainer.
There's lots to love about weddings — and lots to hate, too, from the stand-up-sit-down-ness at some ceremonies to the awkward speak-into-the-microphone-for-the-wedding-video
moments. Your date-to-be can despise those things, but he shouldn't subject you
to ramblings about his misery while you're trying to enjoy yourself.
8. You won't mind seeing him in wedding pictures down the road.
No, you can't predict whether or not a new relationship will make it. You can sort of tell if he's a good enough guy that you won't end up hating the very sight of him at a future date. Go with your gut on that one.
Hooray for having awesome friends who invited you to their wedding with a
plus-one! Just one issue: Who do you take? See if your candidates meet these
criteria before you extend the invitation.
1. You've hung out enough to know he's fun and normal.
A wedding reception isn't a second date kind of place. I don't think it's right as a third or fourth date venue either. To bring someone to something as a emotionally charged as a wedding, you really have to know that the person 1. won't freak out witnessing people pledge their lives to each other and 2. won't irritate you after six or more straight hours together.
2. He won't embarrass you.
A party animal can make a fun wedding date. There's also the chance that he can get so drunk that he pees or pukes on himself before the cake-cutting (ew). Your plus-one should be mature
enough to know the difference between having a good time and making himself (and maybe you, too) look like a fool.
3. He doesn't need to be babysat.
Whether it's your new boyfriend, your brother, or your gay BFF, you don't want to feel guilty about temporarily separating from him if you run to the ladies' room or get caught in
a conversation with other wedding guests. Not that you should ditch your date for extended periods of time, but if your potential plus-one wouldn't fare well without you — or would hold it against you if he had to fend for himself for 15 minutes — leave him home.
4. He feels similarly about dancing as you do.
Do your friends point to you when ABBA's "Dancing Queen" comes on? Then there isn't much
point to bringing a dance-a-phobe whom you won't hang with for much of the evening then. Likewise, if you prefer to stay glued to your chiavari chair, a dancing king isn't your ideal date.
5. He's cool with getting dressed up.
For every girl out there who hates strapping on heels and a strapless bra, there are probably two
or more guys who hate breaking out the suit jacket and tying a tie. You don't want to bring a guy who's not willing to dress the part. Feel free to remind him about appropriate wedding guest attire, but if he doesn't own a fitting outfit and isn't willing to pony up the dough for one, he's probably not psyched about going to a wedding with you. And you deserve a date who knows how lucky he is to have you on his arm!
6. He's not a gigantic flirt.
Personable is great. Chatting up everyone in a dress (which will be, oh, half the guests), not so
great. You need to be able to trust that he'll be with you for the night. Even if you two aren't seriously dating each other, he's still your date.
7. He's not a complainer.
There's lots to love about weddings — and lots to hate, too, from the stand-up-sit-down-ness at some ceremonies to the awkward speak-into-the-microphone-for-the-wedding-video
moments. Your date-to-be can despise those things, but he shouldn't subject you
to ramblings about his misery while you're trying to enjoy yourself.
8. You won't mind seeing him in wedding pictures down the road.
No, you can't predict whether or not a new relationship will make it. You can sort of tell if he's a good enough guy that you won't end up hating the very sight of him at a future date. Go with your gut on that one.
Wedding Love Quotes
~Soulmates...two halves of the same soul joining together in lifes journey~ Author Unknown
~Once in awhile, Right in the middle of an ordinary life, Love gives us a fairy tale.~ Anonymous
~Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind~ William Shakespeare
~Two souls with but a single thought, Two hearts that beat as one. ~ Friedrich Halm
~There is no more lovely, friendly and charming relationship, communion or company than a good marriage. ~ Martin Luther
~You know you're in love when you can't fall asleepbecause reality is finally better than your dreams.~ Dr. Seuss
~Marriage is the golden ring in a chain whose beginning is a glance and whose ending is Eternity.~ Kahlil Gibran
~To love and be loved is to feel the sun from both sides.~ David Viscott
~ My true love hath my heart, and I have his~ Philip Sydney
~Better to have loved and lost, than to have never loved at all~ St. Augustine
~A part of you has grown in me. And so you see, it's you and me together forever and never apart,
maybe in distance, but never in heart.~ Author Unknown
~This day I will marry my best friend, the one I laugh with, live for, dream with, love ~ Author
Unknown
~Love is not just looking at each other, it's looking in the same direction.~ Antoine de
Saint-Exupery
~ At the touch of love everyone becomes a poet~ Plato
~There is only one happiness in life,to love and be loved.~ George Sands
~Love those who love you~ Voltaire
~Whatever our souls are made up, his and mine are the same~ Emily Bronte
~Come live with me, and be my love,And we will some new pleasures prove Of golden sands, and crystal brooks, With silken lines, and silver hooks ~ John Donne
~You don't marry someone you can live with - you marry the person who you cannot live
without~ Author Unknown
~If I could reach up and hold a star for every time you've made me smile, the entire evening
sky would be in the palm of my hand~ Author Unknown
~We are, each of us angels with only one wing; and we can only fly by embracing one another.~ Luciano de Crescenzo
~ A kiss can beautify souls hearts and thoughts~ Author Unknown
~The prudence of the best heads is often defeated by thetenderness of the best hearts.~ Henry Fielding
~You're nothing short of my everything.~ Ralph Block
~Once in awhile, Right in the middle of an ordinary life, Love gives us a fairy tale.~ Anonymous
~Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind~ William Shakespeare
~Two souls with but a single thought, Two hearts that beat as one. ~ Friedrich Halm
~There is no more lovely, friendly and charming relationship, communion or company than a good marriage. ~ Martin Luther
~You know you're in love when you can't fall asleepbecause reality is finally better than your dreams.~ Dr. Seuss
~Marriage is the golden ring in a chain whose beginning is a glance and whose ending is Eternity.~ Kahlil Gibran
~To love and be loved is to feel the sun from both sides.~ David Viscott
~ My true love hath my heart, and I have his~ Philip Sydney
~Better to have loved and lost, than to have never loved at all~ St. Augustine
~A part of you has grown in me. And so you see, it's you and me together forever and never apart,
maybe in distance, but never in heart.~ Author Unknown
~This day I will marry my best friend, the one I laugh with, live for, dream with, love ~ Author
Unknown
~Love is not just looking at each other, it's looking in the same direction.~ Antoine de
Saint-Exupery
~ At the touch of love everyone becomes a poet~ Plato
~There is only one happiness in life,to love and be loved.~ George Sands
~Love those who love you~ Voltaire
~Whatever our souls are made up, his and mine are the same~ Emily Bronte
~Come live with me, and be my love,And we will some new pleasures prove Of golden sands, and crystal brooks, With silken lines, and silver hooks ~ John Donne
~You don't marry someone you can live with - you marry the person who you cannot live
without~ Author Unknown
~If I could reach up and hold a star for every time you've made me smile, the entire evening
sky would be in the palm of my hand~ Author Unknown
~We are, each of us angels with only one wing; and we can only fly by embracing one another.~ Luciano de Crescenzo
~ A kiss can beautify souls hearts and thoughts~ Author Unknown
~The prudence of the best heads is often defeated by thetenderness of the best hearts.~ Henry Fielding
~You're nothing short of my everything.~ Ralph Block
Thursday, October 27, 2011
1 Year Mark.....
In one year we will be Mr and Mrs Scott and Jasmine Cameron.....
How crazy is it that this year has gone so fast and we are on final countdown mode. All I can think about is our lives together and how sweet it is to be so happy. I Love Him more than I thought I could ever love a man and he will soon be my husband.
Let the year countdown begin......365
How crazy is it that this year has gone so fast and we are on final countdown mode. All I can think about is our lives together and how sweet it is to be so happy. I Love Him more than I thought I could ever love a man and he will soon be my husband.
Let the year countdown begin......365
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Words I needed for today
Word of the Day: "Strength": Our strength is not determined based upon how much one could physically lift, but more so how much we can mentally hold. Your mental strength can push you to conquer the unknown. Nothing requires more strength than closing a necessary door of the past and opening a new door to a brighter future. It's mind over matter. ~T.Martin
Photo of The Week
This Photo of the Week comes straight from Las Vegas at the Circus Circus Hotel. My grandfather turned 80 and we went to Las Vegas to celebrate. Scott, Jacelyn and I went to do some family fun and Scott and I decided to jump in the photo booth and have some photos taken. This is one of the photos and my favorite from that day. It was a great weekend because Scott got to meet The McMearn fam and hang out. Love me some him......Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Woner Twins...Activate!
We have been dealing with the passing of Scott's grandmother so this was a blessing is disguise.....
Scott, Marlene and I were heading out to eat yesterday and when we entered the freeway we saw a woman who was hunched over her steering wheel... We immediately pulled over and I ran like he wind over to her. I asked her if she was hurt and all I could see was blood. She told me she was in no pain. I asked her where the blood was coming from and she told me that I didn't want to know. Scott called 911 and I did my best to keep her calm and talking.
I learned that her name is Debby and she was 51. She has a brother and some friends but she felt like life was hard and she took 2 different prescriptions and I found out that the blood came from the 2 cuts in her wrist that were self-inflected. I told her that there is so many things in life that are good and the hard times are there but we will get through this. She realized that she did something wrong and we got her help... We saved a life and it felt good after the past few days we had....
We got to be heroes.
Scott, Marlene and I were heading out to eat yesterday and when we entered the freeway we saw a woman who was hunched over her steering wheel... We immediately pulled over and I ran like he wind over to her. I asked her if she was hurt and all I could see was blood. She told me she was in no pain. I asked her where the blood was coming from and she told me that I didn't want to know. Scott called 911 and I did my best to keep her calm and talking.
I learned that her name is Debby and she was 51. She has a brother and some friends but she felt like life was hard and she took 2 different prescriptions and I found out that the blood came from the 2 cuts in her wrist that were self-inflected. I told her that there is so many things in life that are good and the hard times are there but we will get through this. She realized that she did something wrong and we got her help... We saved a life and it felt good after the past few days we had....
We got to be heroes.
Monday, October 24, 2011
The Original JC
The last time I saw her alive she said to me as she hugged me... You know there will be 2 JC's in the family this time next year but remember I am the original one..... It brought tears to my eyes just to type that because those are the last words she ever got to say to me and the last words I ever got to hear from her.
I don't know how to explain the love I felt for this woman as the woman who was a great part of the man I loves life. She was there for him in ways that cant be measured and now that she is not with us anymore, the pain is just as great. She never had a negative thing to say and I use to love to send her text messages from her of smiley faces because she always wanted to have the last word.
Jeanell, I THANK YOU for being the woman you were and always will be to Scott. I THANK YOU for welcoming me into your family and for the time we had together. Remember the last words I said to you which was I Love You and I am OK with being the 2nd JC in the family. I promise to take care of Scott, Marlene and Isaiah and to be the best JC I can be.
I Love You.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Could not resist babe.....
When Scott and I started dating, one night we saw a commerical for David Tutera's My Fair Wedding (So Excited for it to come back November 13th) and there was a woman who had a life size wedding cake of herself and thought it was the best idea ever and Scott also thought was too.... So it was a night of Jasmine Cake discussion. Fast Forward to yesterday when I was on Pinterest (My new obsession) I saw this cake and instantly laughed of the memory of the life size Jasmine cake... Gotta love that man on mines....
Thursday, October 20, 2011
373
I am trying to put myself in the mind state of where I would be a year from now... It is one year and one week away from our wedding and I almost wish it was this week. I am prepared to start a life with Scott and the kids.
The more interesting part about it all is that I'm glad we had the time to wait and prepare for whats coming. Its like being a kid on Christmas morning (That's when we got engaged) where you know a gift is coming but you have to wait for it to happen... This will be the best gift ever and I am excited for it.
The more interesting part about it all is that I'm glad we had the time to wait and prepare for whats coming. Its like being a kid on Christmas morning (That's when we got engaged) where you know a gift is coming but you have to wait for it to happen... This will be the best gift ever and I am excited for it.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Someone
I asked my Granny once how do you know when you have truly found someone to love? She said: When the chips are down, your day is bad and they still manage to make you smile, then you have found someone who is priceless.......I wish she would have been around to meet and know Scott.... I am sure that she would've loved him as much as I do.
Photo of the Week
This Photo of the Week is of my daughter Jacelyn. Not only is she the love of my life (Scott is too) but she is a great cheerleader, excellent student and the best daughter a Mommy could ever have. She was awarded a certificate this week for ranking #3 out of 1,873 students in her grade with her District Test Scores. I Love You Mini Me and I am proud of you.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
The Dilemma is Over...
Last night I gave some real thought into my previous post about my dress and have made a decision that I am going to stick to the dress I have. I fell in love with it and I think it is the perfect dress for me and for this day. If that means I have to work overtime, and through blood, sweat and tears to have it then that is what I will do. There is no other dress I would rather marry Scott in on that day but that one.
That's a weight lifted off my shoulders.
That's a weight lifted off my shoulders.
Monday, October 17, 2011
What Really Happens on the Wedding Night
Real brides share their wedding night stories (and they're not what you think).
Just Me and My TV
"We had an evening garden wedding that
happened to fall on the day of a 75-year record high ... a whopping 106 degrees.
We were exhausted and soaked when we finally got back to the honeymoon suite. I
went to the bathroom to peel myself out of the drenched wedding dress, take a
shower, and change. I finally walk out — perfect hair, stellar makeup, and some
sexy lingerie — only to find my husband sprawled out on the bed, passed out, and
snoring. Bravo TV and I spent one salacious evening together."
Flooded With Emotion
"The hotel we stayed in had a huge,
two-person shower, and we jumped in it immediately after the reception. We
started to fool around until my husband began to look extremely freaked out.
Apparently, my fake eyelashes were falling off, and he had no clue that I had
been wearing them. One strip was on my cheek, and the other was hanging off my
eye. Let's just say, it kind of killed the mood. We then got out of the shower
to find the entire bathroom flooded. My dress was soaked, and everything that
had been on the floor was in a pool of water, including the only pajamas and
underwear that we'd brought. We spent the next 20 minutes cleaning up, and by
the time we were done, all we wanted to do was sleep."
A Rather Hairy Situation
"I'd gotten so tipsy at my wedding
that when we got home, my new husband had to help me open the back of my dress.
In the middle of him unhooking the thing, I looked at him, smiled, reached up,
and pulled out a pile of 'hair' and handed it to him. I then proceeded to wander
into the living room and pass out on the sofa. He had no idea the hair was my
extensions and was completely freaked out."
Blinged-Out Lovin
'"When you open a bunch of glittery congratulatory wedding
cards while sitting in bed, you often end up with glitter in unusual places
after other, well, shall we say, 'more aerobic' activities. ;)"
Officially an Old Married Couple
"During the reception, our guests actually shooed us into the elevator and told us to 'get
at it.' We hadn't had time to eat at the reception and were STARVING, so instead
we went upstairs to our room, grabbed a bite, mussed our hair, and watched an
episode of MythBusters on TV. A half hour later, we were greeted
downstairs to a standing ovation."
An Awkward Entrance
"At the end of the night, my husband and I climbed into our
sweet ride (a '91 Honda Accord) and drove back to the hotel. We parked by the
side entrance, near one of the conference rooms, and went in. Unfortunately, we
accidently walked through the annual gathering for the Bereaved Parents of the
USA, an organization for parents, grandparents, and siblings who've recently
lost loved ones, all while wearing our wedding gear. Kind of a mood killer."
Don Your Wedding Duds for a "Suite" Night
"We won a free wedding night hotel stay at a bridal show and were really excited about it
because we had originally planned to sleep at home that night. After the
reception, we drove to the hotel, but unfortunately, it was the wrong one. I was
in my wedding dress and he was in his tuxedo, and we felt really silly. Luckily,
the manager was great and gave us a free night's stay in one of the nicest
suites."
Momma Said Lock You Out
"After the reception, I felt like I
was getting a cold, so we decided to go upstairs and call it a night. I
immediately passed out, while my husband decided to go back downstairs and get a
bite to eat. Unfortunately, he forgot his room key. I was so dead-to-the-world
asleep that I never heard him banging on the door or trying to call our room. To
top it all off, I completely forgot to give the hotel his name when I made the
reservation. It took over an hour of coaxing for the poor guy at the front desk
to finally let him into our room."
Just Me and My TV
"We had an evening garden wedding that
happened to fall on the day of a 75-year record high ... a whopping 106 degrees.
We were exhausted and soaked when we finally got back to the honeymoon suite. I
went to the bathroom to peel myself out of the drenched wedding dress, take a
shower, and change. I finally walk out — perfect hair, stellar makeup, and some
sexy lingerie — only to find my husband sprawled out on the bed, passed out, and
snoring. Bravo TV and I spent one salacious evening together."
Flooded With Emotion
"The hotel we stayed in had a huge,
two-person shower, and we jumped in it immediately after the reception. We
started to fool around until my husband began to look extremely freaked out.
Apparently, my fake eyelashes were falling off, and he had no clue that I had
been wearing them. One strip was on my cheek, and the other was hanging off my
eye. Let's just say, it kind of killed the mood. We then got out of the shower
to find the entire bathroom flooded. My dress was soaked, and everything that
had been on the floor was in a pool of water, including the only pajamas and
underwear that we'd brought. We spent the next 20 minutes cleaning up, and by
the time we were done, all we wanted to do was sleep."
A Rather Hairy Situation
"I'd gotten so tipsy at my wedding
that when we got home, my new husband had to help me open the back of my dress.
In the middle of him unhooking the thing, I looked at him, smiled, reached up,
and pulled out a pile of 'hair' and handed it to him. I then proceeded to wander
into the living room and pass out on the sofa. He had no idea the hair was my
extensions and was completely freaked out."
Blinged-Out Lovin
'"When you open a bunch of glittery congratulatory wedding
cards while sitting in bed, you often end up with glitter in unusual places
after other, well, shall we say, 'more aerobic' activities. ;)"
Officially an Old Married Couple
"During the reception, our guests actually shooed us into the elevator and told us to 'get
at it.' We hadn't had time to eat at the reception and were STARVING, so instead
we went upstairs to our room, grabbed a bite, mussed our hair, and watched an
episode of MythBusters on TV. A half hour later, we were greeted
downstairs to a standing ovation."
An Awkward Entrance
"At the end of the night, my husband and I climbed into our
sweet ride (a '91 Honda Accord) and drove back to the hotel. We parked by the
side entrance, near one of the conference rooms, and went in. Unfortunately, we
accidently walked through the annual gathering for the Bereaved Parents of the
USA, an organization for parents, grandparents, and siblings who've recently
lost loved ones, all while wearing our wedding gear. Kind of a mood killer."
Don Your Wedding Duds for a "Suite" Night
"We won a free wedding night hotel stay at a bridal show and were really excited about it
because we had originally planned to sleep at home that night. After the
reception, we drove to the hotel, but unfortunately, it was the wrong one. I was
in my wedding dress and he was in his tuxedo, and we felt really silly. Luckily,
the manager was great and gave us a free night's stay in one of the nicest
suites."
Momma Said Lock You Out
"After the reception, I felt like I
was getting a cold, so we decided to go upstairs and call it a night. I
immediately passed out, while my husband decided to go back downstairs and get a
bite to eat. Unfortunately, he forgot his room key. I was so dead-to-the-world
asleep that I never heard him banging on the door or trying to call our room. To
top it all off, I completely forgot to give the hotel his name when I made the
reservation. It took over an hour of coaxing for the poor guy at the front desk
to finally let him into our room."
The Dress Dilemma
Last week I posted about my dream dress and the cost and now I am starting to 2nd guess myself. With so much time between the wedding from now, us saving to move and just life in general, I am now wondering if I just need to find just a dress and let the other one go.....
Hopefully the right answer will come to me and I am able to make a decision.
Hopefully the right answer will come to me and I am able to make a decision.
Wedding Checklist Updated
Sixteen to Nine Months Before
Start a wedding folder or binder. Begin leafing through bridal, lifestyle, fashion, gardening, design, and food magazines for inspiration. - DONE
Work out your budget. Determine how much you have to spend, based on your families’ contributions and your own.- DONE
Pick your wedding party. As soon as you’re engaged, people will start wondering who’s in.- DONE
Start the guest list. Make a head count database to use throughout your planning process, with columns for contact info, RSVPs, gifts, and any other relevant information. (Want to keep costs low? It may be brutal, but the best way to do it is to reduce your guest list.)- STILL IN PROGRESS BUT COMING TOGETHER
Hire a planner, if desired. A planner will have relationships with—and insights about—vendors.- D.O.C TPEOPLES...YAY
Reserve your date and venues. Decide whether to have separate locations for the ceremony and the reception, factoring in travel time between the two places.- DONE AND IN ONE PLACES...YES
Book your officiant.- DONE...YAY DAY DAY!
Research photographers, bands, florists, and caterers. Keep their contact information in your binder.- PHOTOGRAPHER DONE. FLORIST DONE. CATERERS AT THE HOTEL, DONE. STILL NEED A DJ...
Throw an engagement party, if you wish. But remember that your invitees should be on your wedding guest list as well. - DONE
Eight Months Before
Hire the photographer and the videographer (Budgeting for him…hoping to have him). No need to talk specifics yet, but be sure that the people you hire are open to doing the shots that you want.- PHOTOGRAPHER DONE.. STILL WORKING ON A VIDEOGRAPHER BUDGET
Book the entertainment. Attend gigs of potential acts to see how they perform in front of audiences, then reserve your favorite.
Meet caterers. If your wedding venue doesn’t offer its own catering service, look for one now and hire the service this month or early next.
Purchase a dress. You’ll need to schedule time for at least three fittings. Veil shopping can be postponed for another two to three months. -FOUND THE DRESS BUT HAVE YET TO ORDER IT
Reserve a block of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests. Pick three hotels at different price points close to the reception venue. - DONE AND NEED TO FOLLOW UP ON THE LINK AND DECIDE IF I NEED TO MAKE ADDITONAL OPTIONS FOR PEOPLE
Register. Sign up at a minimum of three retailers.
Launch a wedding website. Create your personal page through a free provider such as weddingchannel.com. Note the date of the wedding, travel information, and accommodations.- DONE....www.weddingwire.com/jascott
Then send the link to invitees.
Seven to Six Months Before
Select and purchase invitations. Hire a calligrapher, if desired. Addressing cards is time-consuming, so you need to budget accordingly.
Start planning a honeymoon. Make sure that your passports are up-to-date, and schedule doctors’ appointments for any shots you may need.
Shop for bridesmaids’ dresses. Allow at least six months for the dresses to be ordered and sized.- FOUND SOME DRESSES, STILL NEED TO TRY ON A FEW MORE AND WORK ON ORDERING THEM
Meet with the officiant. Map out the ceremony and confirm that you have all the official documents for the wedding (these vary by county and religion).- DONE.. STILL NEED TO MAKE TIME TO GO OVER PROGRAM WITH DAY DAY
Send save-the-date cards.
Reserve structural and electrical necessities. Book portable toilets for outdoor events, extra chairs if you need them, lighting components, and so on.
Book a florist. Florists can serve multiple clients on one day, which is why you can wait a little longer to engage one. Plus, at this point, you’ll be firm on what your wedding palette will be.- DONE BUT NEED TO CHECK IN WITH DB
Arrange transportation. Consider limos, minibuses, trolleys, and town cars. (But know that low-to-the-ground limos can make entries and exists dicey if you’re wearing a fitted gown.)
Start composing a day-of timeline. Draw up a schedule of the event and slot in each component (the cake-cutting, the first dance).- STARTED AND NEED TO GO OVER WITH SC AND TP
Five to Four Months Before
Book the rehearsal and rehearsal-dinner venues. Negotiate the cost and the menu. If you’re planning to host a day-after brunch for guests, book that place as well.
Check on the wedding invitations. Ask the stationer for samples of the finished invitations and revise them to suit your needs.
Select and order the cake. Some bakers require a long lead time. Attend several tastings before committing to any baker.
Send your guest list to the host of your shower. Provided you, ahem, know about the shower.
Purchase wedding shoes and start dress fittings. Bring the shoes along to your first fitting so the tailor can choose the appropriate length for your gown.
Schedule hair and makeup artists. Make a few appointments with local experts to try them out. Snap a photo at each so you can compare results.
Choose your music. What should be playing when the wedding party is announced? During dinner? To kick off the dancing? Keep a running list of what you want—and do not want—played.
Three Months Before
Finalize the menu and flowers. You’ll want to wait until now to see what will be available, since food and flowers are affected by season.
Order favors, if desired. Some safe bets: monogrammed cookies or a treat that represents your city or region. If you’re planning to have welcome baskets for out-of-town guests, plan those now too.
Make a list of the people giving toasts. Which loved ones would you like to have speak at the reception? Ask them now.
Finalize the readings. Determine what you would like to have read at the ceremony—and whom you wish to do the readings.
Purchase your undergarments. And schedule your second fitting.
Finalize the order of the ceremony and the reception.
Print menu cards, if you like, as well as programs. No need to go to a printer, if that’s not in your budget: You can easily create these on your computer.
Purchase the rings. This will give you time for resizing and engraving.
Send your event schedule to the vendors. Giving them a first draft now allows ample time for tweaks and feedback.
Two Months Before
Touch base again with all the vendors. Make sure any questions you or they had on your first draft have been answered.
Meet with the photographer. Discuss specific shots, and walk through the locations to note spots that appeal to you.
Review the playlist with the band or deejay. Though you probably won’t be able to dictate every single song played, you should come prepared with a wish list.
Send out the invitations. The rule of thumb: Mail invitations six to eight weeks before the ceremony, setting the RSVP cutoff at three weeks after the postmark date.
Submit a newspaper wedding announcement. If you’re planning to include a photograph, check the publication’s website: Some have strict rules about how the photo should look.
Enjoy a bachelorette party. Arranging a night out with your girlfriends generally falls to the maid of honor. But if she hasn’t mentioned one to you by now, feel free to ask—for scheduling purposes, of course!—if a celebration is in the works.
One Month Before
Enter RSVPs into your guest-list database. Phone people who have not yet responded.
Get your marriage license. The process can take up to six days, but it’s good to give yourself some leeway. If you are changing your name, order several copies.
Mail the rehearsal-dinner invitations.
Visit the dressmaker for (with luck!) your last dress fitting. For peace of mind, you may want to schedule a fitting the week of your wedding. You can always cancel the appointment if you try on the dress then and it fits perfectly.
Stock the bar. Now that you have a firm head count you can order accordingly.
Send out as many final payments as you can.
Confirm times for hair and makeup and all vendors.
E-mail and print directions for drivers of transport vehicles. This gives the chauffeurs ample time to navigate a route.
Assign seating. Draw out table shapes on a layout of the room to help plan place settings. Write the names of female guests on pink sticky notes and the names of male guests on blue sticky notes so you can move people about without resketching the entire setting.
Purchase bridesmaids’ gifts. You’ll present them at the rehearsal dinner.
Write vows, if necessary.
Get your hair cut and colored, if desired.
Week of the Wedding
Reconfirm arrival times with vendors.
Delegate small wedding-day tasks. Choose someone to bustle your dress, someone to carry your things, someone to be in charge of gifts (especially the enveloped sort), someone to hand out tips, and someone to be the point person for each vendor.
Send a timeline to the bridal party. Include every member’s contact information, along with the point people you’ve asked to deal with the vendors, if problems arise.
Pick up your dress. Or make arrangements for a delivery.
Check in one last time with the photographer. Supply him or her with a list of moments you want captured on film.
Set aside checks for the vendors. And put tips in envelopes to be handed out at the event.
Book a spa treatment. Make an appontment for a manicure and a pedicure the day before the wedding. (You might want to get a stress-relieving massage, too.)
Send the final guest list to the caterer and all venues hosting your wedding-related events. Typically, companies close their lists 72 hours in advance.
Break in your shoes.
Assemble and distribute the welcome baskets.
Pack for your honeymoon.
Start a wedding folder or binder. Begin leafing through bridal, lifestyle, fashion, gardening, design, and food magazines for inspiration. - DONE
Work out your budget. Determine how much you have to spend, based on your families’ contributions and your own.- DONE
Pick your wedding party. As soon as you’re engaged, people will start wondering who’s in.- DONE
Start the guest list. Make a head count database to use throughout your planning process, with columns for contact info, RSVPs, gifts, and any other relevant information. (Want to keep costs low? It may be brutal, but the best way to do it is to reduce your guest list.)- STILL IN PROGRESS BUT COMING TOGETHER
Hire a planner, if desired. A planner will have relationships with—and insights about—vendors.- D.O.C TPEOPLES...YAY
Reserve your date and venues. Decide whether to have separate locations for the ceremony and the reception, factoring in travel time between the two places.- DONE AND IN ONE PLACES...YES
Book your officiant.- DONE...YAY DAY DAY!
Research photographers, bands, florists, and caterers. Keep their contact information in your binder.- PHOTOGRAPHER DONE. FLORIST DONE. CATERERS AT THE HOTEL, DONE. STILL NEED A DJ...
Throw an engagement party, if you wish. But remember that your invitees should be on your wedding guest list as well. - DONE
Eight Months Before
Hire the photographer and the videographer (Budgeting for him…hoping to have him). No need to talk specifics yet, but be sure that the people you hire are open to doing the shots that you want.- PHOTOGRAPHER DONE.. STILL WORKING ON A VIDEOGRAPHER BUDGET
Book the entertainment. Attend gigs of potential acts to see how they perform in front of audiences, then reserve your favorite.
Meet caterers. If your wedding venue doesn’t offer its own catering service, look for one now and hire the service this month or early next.
Purchase a dress. You’ll need to schedule time for at least three fittings. Veil shopping can be postponed for another two to three months. -FOUND THE DRESS BUT HAVE YET TO ORDER IT
Reserve a block of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests. Pick three hotels at different price points close to the reception venue. - DONE AND NEED TO FOLLOW UP ON THE LINK AND DECIDE IF I NEED TO MAKE ADDITONAL OPTIONS FOR PEOPLE
Register. Sign up at a minimum of three retailers.
Launch a wedding website. Create your personal page through a free provider such as weddingchannel.com. Note the date of the wedding, travel information, and accommodations.- DONE....www.weddingwire.com/jascott
Then send the link to invitees.
Seven to Six Months Before
Select and purchase invitations. Hire a calligrapher, if desired. Addressing cards is time-consuming, so you need to budget accordingly.
Start planning a honeymoon. Make sure that your passports are up-to-date, and schedule doctors’ appointments for any shots you may need.
Shop for bridesmaids’ dresses. Allow at least six months for the dresses to be ordered and sized.- FOUND SOME DRESSES, STILL NEED TO TRY ON A FEW MORE AND WORK ON ORDERING THEM
Meet with the officiant. Map out the ceremony and confirm that you have all the official documents for the wedding (these vary by county and religion).- DONE.. STILL NEED TO MAKE TIME TO GO OVER PROGRAM WITH DAY DAY
Send save-the-date cards.
Reserve structural and electrical necessities. Book portable toilets for outdoor events, extra chairs if you need them, lighting components, and so on.
Book a florist. Florists can serve multiple clients on one day, which is why you can wait a little longer to engage one. Plus, at this point, you’ll be firm on what your wedding palette will be.- DONE BUT NEED TO CHECK IN WITH DB
Arrange transportation. Consider limos, minibuses, trolleys, and town cars. (But know that low-to-the-ground limos can make entries and exists dicey if you’re wearing a fitted gown.)
Start composing a day-of timeline. Draw up a schedule of the event and slot in each component (the cake-cutting, the first dance).- STARTED AND NEED TO GO OVER WITH SC AND TP
Five to Four Months Before
Book the rehearsal and rehearsal-dinner venues. Negotiate the cost and the menu. If you’re planning to host a day-after brunch for guests, book that place as well.
Check on the wedding invitations. Ask the stationer for samples of the finished invitations and revise them to suit your needs.
Select and order the cake. Some bakers require a long lead time. Attend several tastings before committing to any baker.
Send your guest list to the host of your shower. Provided you, ahem, know about the shower.
Purchase wedding shoes and start dress fittings. Bring the shoes along to your first fitting so the tailor can choose the appropriate length for your gown.
Schedule hair and makeup artists. Make a few appointments with local experts to try them out. Snap a photo at each so you can compare results.
Choose your music. What should be playing when the wedding party is announced? During dinner? To kick off the dancing? Keep a running list of what you want—and do not want—played.
Three Months Before
Finalize the menu and flowers. You’ll want to wait until now to see what will be available, since food and flowers are affected by season.
Order favors, if desired. Some safe bets: monogrammed cookies or a treat that represents your city or region. If you’re planning to have welcome baskets for out-of-town guests, plan those now too.
Make a list of the people giving toasts. Which loved ones would you like to have speak at the reception? Ask them now.
Finalize the readings. Determine what you would like to have read at the ceremony—and whom you wish to do the readings.
Purchase your undergarments. And schedule your second fitting.
Finalize the order of the ceremony and the reception.
Print menu cards, if you like, as well as programs. No need to go to a printer, if that’s not in your budget: You can easily create these on your computer.
Purchase the rings. This will give you time for resizing and engraving.
Send your event schedule to the vendors. Giving them a first draft now allows ample time for tweaks and feedback.
Two Months Before
Touch base again with all the vendors. Make sure any questions you or they had on your first draft have been answered.
Meet with the photographer. Discuss specific shots, and walk through the locations to note spots that appeal to you.
Review the playlist with the band or deejay. Though you probably won’t be able to dictate every single song played, you should come prepared with a wish list.
Send out the invitations. The rule of thumb: Mail invitations six to eight weeks before the ceremony, setting the RSVP cutoff at three weeks after the postmark date.
Submit a newspaper wedding announcement. If you’re planning to include a photograph, check the publication’s website: Some have strict rules about how the photo should look.
Enjoy a bachelorette party. Arranging a night out with your girlfriends generally falls to the maid of honor. But if she hasn’t mentioned one to you by now, feel free to ask—for scheduling purposes, of course!—if a celebration is in the works.
One Month Before
Enter RSVPs into your guest-list database. Phone people who have not yet responded.
Get your marriage license. The process can take up to six days, but it’s good to give yourself some leeway. If you are changing your name, order several copies.
Mail the rehearsal-dinner invitations.
Visit the dressmaker for (with luck!) your last dress fitting. For peace of mind, you may want to schedule a fitting the week of your wedding. You can always cancel the appointment if you try on the dress then and it fits perfectly.
Stock the bar. Now that you have a firm head count you can order accordingly.
Send out as many final payments as you can.
Confirm times for hair and makeup and all vendors.
E-mail and print directions for drivers of transport vehicles. This gives the chauffeurs ample time to navigate a route.
Assign seating. Draw out table shapes on a layout of the room to help plan place settings. Write the names of female guests on pink sticky notes and the names of male guests on blue sticky notes so you can move people about without resketching the entire setting.
Purchase bridesmaids’ gifts. You’ll present them at the rehearsal dinner.
Write vows, if necessary.
Get your hair cut and colored, if desired.
Week of the Wedding
Reconfirm arrival times with vendors.
Delegate small wedding-day tasks. Choose someone to bustle your dress, someone to carry your things, someone to be in charge of gifts (especially the enveloped sort), someone to hand out tips, and someone to be the point person for each vendor.
Send a timeline to the bridal party. Include every member’s contact information, along with the point people you’ve asked to deal with the vendors, if problems arise.
Pick up your dress. Or make arrangements for a delivery.
Check in one last time with the photographer. Supply him or her with a list of moments you want captured on film.
Set aside checks for the vendors. And put tips in envelopes to be handed out at the event.
Book a spa treatment. Make an appontment for a manicure and a pedicure the day before the wedding. (You might want to get a stress-relieving massage, too.)
Send the final guest list to the caterer and all venues hosting your wedding-related events. Typically, companies close their lists 72 hours in advance.
Break in your shoes.
Assemble and distribute the welcome baskets.
Pack for your honeymoon.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
And so it begins
It is now starting to speed up and get really going with wedding plans. I got an email today about invitations and my dad has asked about the guest list... 11 days out from our 1 year mark and I am getting excited about it all. To think that I will be Mrs. Cameron sooner than I think.... Amazing!
Friday, October 14, 2011
Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad
My parents will be celebrating 34 years of marriage tomorrow and I thought it would only be fitting to post on my wedding blog some wishes to them. They have inspired me to find love and to hold on to it. They have had good days, bad days and all in between... but through it all, they are still together and that's AWESOME.
Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad.... Love You!
True Friends
There is alot of value in having great friends in our lives.. I feel like they are the calm before the storm in the wedding process. This week alone, I have heard from at least 3 different friends that said, whatever you need help with I am here and that's a great feeling to have. I am lucky to say that my friends are truly the best. They might have their crazy days but we all do and I am so grateful for them.
TGIF....
TGIF....
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Superwoman Down.....
Today I am home in bed because I a sick. I know it is all bad but what can you say. I realize that ALOT has been going on with Being a Mom, Working Cheer Mom, Sister, Friend and soon a Wife.
I think that I take alot on from time to time but that's all I really know. I take on things and try to do my best to make everyone ok. Now I am going to have to take better care of myself so I can continue to be Superwoman.... It sucks to be sick.
I think that I take alot on from time to time but that's all I really know. I take on things and try to do my best to make everyone ok. Now I am going to have to take better care of myself so I can continue to be Superwoman.... It sucks to be sick.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
The Cost of being a Bride
So the other night, I was watching Say Yes To The Dress and Scott came in as a bride was picking out a $24,000.00 reception dress (Yes you read right) and then picked a wedding dress that was $14,000.00... When it was all said and done, her Fiancee spent $50,000.00 total for 2 dress for the one day.
Scott in amazement said to me, is that even possible?? I let him know that yes, it is over the top for sure but that I would spend way less than that on my dress (Somewhere around 1500.00 when it is all said and done). I know that it cost to be a bride for sure, but here is how I am handling it....
Most who know me know that me wearing a dress is a big deal all together and since I am getting married one time and one time only (unless we renew vows in the future), I want to go for it all the way and be a Beautiful Bride. I will admit that I didn't think I would fall for a dress the way I have or even for the amount it is, but I will be one happy camper when it is time for me to order it and even a happier girl to wear it and become Mrs. Cameron.
I hope he loves me in the dress as much as I will love to be in it...
Scott in amazement said to me, is that even possible?? I let him know that yes, it is over the top for sure but that I would spend way less than that on my dress (Somewhere around 1500.00 when it is all said and done). I know that it cost to be a bride for sure, but here is how I am handling it....
Most who know me know that me wearing a dress is a big deal all together and since I am getting married one time and one time only (unless we renew vows in the future), I want to go for it all the way and be a Beautiful Bride. I will admit that I didn't think I would fall for a dress the way I have or even for the amount it is, but I will be one happy camper when it is time for me to order it and even a happier girl to wear it and become Mrs. Cameron.
I hope he loves me in the dress as much as I will love to be in it...
Photo of the Week
This Photo of the Week comes from our Engagement Shoot and us Monkeying around....
We met at an Internet Media Company named Gorilla Nation Media and one year as apart of our Holiday Bonus, we got Gorilla Slippers..... We figured it would be a great to use the slippers in our engagement shoot as a homage to the reason we are together....
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Our Wedding...Our Planning...Our Ideas
The great thing about weddings is that it is bringing together 2 people for life and it is a celebration of the 2 of you....Here is the thing.... I think it is a good thing to have input from your groom/partner on what goes on with your wedding day. I never understood the concept of not including them. Some will say that the wedding is all about the bride but I would love to think that it is more than that. I like having conversations with Scott about our wedding (even those that involve the amount of my dress). I want him to enjoy himself as much as I know I will enjoy myself.
So through Dress Prices, Party Ideas, Favors, Dessert Bars and Ceremony... We will do it together and that's the way it will be...Until he taps out. LOL.
382 and counting....
So through Dress Prices, Party Ideas, Favors, Dessert Bars and Ceremony... We will do it together and that's the way it will be...Until he taps out. LOL.
382 and counting....
Monday, October 10, 2011
Heating Up The Kitchen...
Sunday, Scott and I spent some time in the Kitchen and made Baked Chicken Crusted with Bread Crumbs and Parmesan Cheese with Basmati Rice..... Not bad at all. I wish I would have taken a few pics but I didn't think about it until this morning. I'm sure there will be plenty of times for us to cook up some meals and add some new flavor to our relationship.
The Neely's ain't got nothing on The Cameron's....
The Neely's ain't got nothing on The Cameron's....
Friday, October 7, 2011
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Photo of the Week
This Photo of the Week was from a tough work day. We had to lay off 20 people and I was beyond upset so we went and had drinks and of course, Scott did everything he could to make me smile... Including buying me a single rose from the Flower Lady there.... Bad day but who could have a bad day with a man like this to make you smile..... :)
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
OCTOBER!!!
Its amazing how time flies by... when I started this blog in March, my wedding date seemed so far away and now that we have reached October 2011, 2012 will be here in no time. Its like time was on our side and its now shooting passed us. In 389 days, I will be Mrs. Jasmine Cameron... I like the way that sounds....
There are still somethings to do but I am feeling good about where we are right now and what the future will hold for us. As long as we have each other, we will be alright...
The journey continues...
There are still somethings to do but I am feeling good about where we are right now and what the future will hold for us. As long as we have each other, we will be alright...
The journey continues...
Monday, October 3, 2011
My Wedding Question was featured on YBF's article with Tamara Mowry
I am a fan of YBF and on Facebook last week, they asked for Brides to send it questions to be asked to Tamara Mowry (Sister, Sister) about her recent wedding, Interracial Marriages and her futre.... And they choose my question to ask her....YAY! Here is the article:
Because we LOVE a good wedding around these parts...
We've loved her since her "Sister, Sister" days. And we got to see Mrs. Tamera Mowry-Housley's wedding with hubby Adam play out in all its tearful glory on her & twin sis Tia's reality show, "Tia & Tamera." We found out more on their part-drama, part-sex deprived, ALL romantic nuptials that took place this past spring. AND she's dishing up advice specifically for YBF reader Brides-To-Be..
By the way, this chick has the most contagious (and plentiful) laugh in the business.....
Tamera, let's get right to it. You and [your husband] Adam got slammed with hateful comments and criticism about your interracial relationship. Especially as soon as your engagement photos hit the net. Why did you choose to release the photos? How did you all deal with the negativity?
It's something I wanted to share with Adam, our fam and friends, and years down the line with our kids. There's something, I think, special about that. I wanted them to see something more than just us in our wedding attire. I didn't feel like we shouldn't have put them out--I was just shocked that some people still feel that way. It's 2011! They did a poll recently and 83% of Americans are OK with interracial relationships. I never expected that kind of negative response to us. That's why I was OK with our wedding photographer [Jose Villa] putting those pics on his website. He was ok with them, and I was ok with them.
Did all the hate overshadow your happiness about the photos?
It didn't ruin anything for me though. If anything it just shed light on the fact people feel that way...and that's their opinion. The fact of the matter is--if you have 99.9% who see it with positivity, and you're gonna have that .1% who don't.
My husband had the best response to that on the show. He said 'That's not our issue. That's their issue. So they can deal with that.' From now on, I'm just focusing on the people who love us and suport us. Which are MANY people. And that's also the case with life--there will always be naysayers.
You mentioned on your show that you and Adam decided not to shack up. Does that mean you went the Sherri Shepherd route and decided not to sex it up either?
I'll be very very honest. (Laughs embarrassingly) We decided, it was both of our decision, not to live together for religious reasons. I'm being very honest. We actually didn't wait before we got married to be intimate...but we did wait 3 years. (The two have been together for 6 years). I wanted to do what felt right for me. I became re-virginized. It's something that just felt right for me. It was just a personal choice. And even after being intimate, we decided as a couple to be celibate until the wedding.
We need the details on your wedding attire. That gorgeous dress, your shoes, everything.
My dress was Carolina Herrera. I wanted Carolina Herrera because everyone seemed to be going the Vera Wang route. And Carolina Herrera exemplifies elegance...and I felt like a woman. It was sexy, but not too sexy. It was sophisticated, elegant, and it was CLASSIC. You'll look at that picture and it'll look great forever!
My shoes...I wanted something blue because at Tia's wedding [to actor Cory Hardrict], it was really hard to find something blue. So I really wanted to make sure I had it. And what's so funny about that, I ended up having SO many things something blue. My good friend Candace Cameron ("Full House") got me THE cutest little dainty blue Cosabella panties that said "Mrs. Housley"! And Mindy Weiss, my wedding planner, put "I Do" in blue rhinestones underneath my blue shoes!
So your something old, something borrowed, etc. were all wrapped up in what you were wearing that day? What were the rest of the things--so our brides can get ideas.
My Something New were these cross earrings Tia got me. And my Something Borrowed...Oh my Gosh! I didn't have anything borrowed! Oh my God. (Mini-freak out session and laughter ensues)
[More laughs] Wait...we're just going to act like you did...and skip over it. You're going to lose your mind if you keep thinking about it!
[Laughs] Oh my gosh I can't believe this! WAIT WAIT...Something Borrowed were my other earrings!
How would a bride--like the girls on Bridezillas--deal with the drama and hate from within their own family or circle of friends when it comes to the wedding. You seemed to be very stressed during the whole process.
Well that's a misconception. My family LOVES Adam. My mom...just thinks he's the best thing ever. My brother Taj and Adam are so close. We even did this test (LAUGHS HARD). I used to be jealous because when the three of us are together, I don't exist. I'm like "Helllllo I'm here. I'm your wife!" They connect on a different level. I even did this test to see who Taj would text first. I said Adam...let's text Taj at the same time and see who he'll text back first--he texted Adam first.
My brother Tavior--they hang out by themselves and my husband watches his scrimmage games at UC Davis.
I never had to deal with hate that way. My family and my extended family--they love this man. And I'll tell you this: What's so great is that my aunts and cousins when they first met him, said this is a man who does not see color. He's comfortable around EVERYBODY. Adam speaks fluent Spanish, he loves culture and knows what's going on in the world. My family welcomed him with open arms. The stresses that I had were the stresses I put on myself. If I could tell brides anything--it's DON'T STRESS about the little things! People tried to tell me that, but....
What was you all's FIRST DANCE song at the reception?
It was Journey's "Faithfully." My husband and I always travel up to Northern California--he had a place there--and we always listened to that song. It's about a man who travels a lot. But always loves his significant other and comes right back.
Oh, and Adam is a HUGE LL Cool J fan. He was set on having LL in the wedding some way. So he wanted "Going Back To Cali" played, it's his favorite song. So my brother choreographed a dance that we all did at the wedding. We had our slow dance, then we broke out into LL Cool J. It was hilarious. Oh my gosh.
Now, what do you say to a bride who has a tight budget? If 10K-20K is her budget. And she can't do $1 more.
Well if it's an outside wedding--I say budget for a tent. I was really naive. Whether there would be rain in Napa in May wasn't even a question for me because I've been there several times in May and there was never even a cloud in sight. (The couple's wedding took place May 15th, 2011 in Yuntsville, CA.) But leading up to my wedding, there was rain, hail, it was 40 degrees, I might as well had gotten married in January!
But if you only have a set amount like $20K for your wedding, and not a $1 more, think about all the things that COULD happen. And plan for it. Had I known rain could have happened, I would have budgeted for a tent and not done some other things. Instead I had to tack on several thousand more last minute for it.
So did Style channel pay for your wedding?
Nope--I paid for it all myself.
That's the way to do it so you get and do everything YOU want. Now, you were extremely upset on the show about going over your budget. But people would say "You're Tamera Mowry--you have a few more G's to kick in." Was it just the stress of everything weighing on you?
Well the thing is...I'm actually very frugal. My business manager always says he wishes he had clients like me. Just because you have some money doesn't mean you have to spend it. My mom and dad raised me up to be that way.
I'm the type of person where--like me and Adam were living in my condo, but we JUST bought a house. I could have had my own house before but...
So what do you feel about the people like Kim Kardashian and Star Jones who had a publicity circus around their weddings.
Well, I think because I just chose to keep certain moments of the wedding private, it's just different. The actual wedding was not filmed for the show. I wanted it private. Before and after the ceremony was shown though. My whole life, almost, I've been in a fishbowl. So this was something intimate and I wanted to keep it that way. But I still wanted to share some aspects of it with my fans. I didn't want to bring you guys all this way just to not show you anything.
And Adam's family, of course, paid for the traditional stuff they're supposed to pay for-- like the rehearsal dinner and all of that. Adam did help with the music. He wanted a band AND a DJ--so he got that himself. [Laughs] We had my favorite Hip Hop dee-jay DJ Big Von from San Francisco. It was phenomenal.
Give us a peek into what a newly married woman feels like. I always wanted to know a bride's thoughts the very next day. Happiness, REGRET even (laughs). What was the very first thing you did the next morning as Mrs. Housley? Brush your teeth extra happy....cook him breakfast....what?
Well, we were actually in our hotel room still. We went straight to our Honeymoon the next morning (in Greece). Honestly, I woke up the most peaceful I have ever been in my entire life. And......(cracks up laughing) Adam and I had waited for a while to...you know....so....[trails off with laughter].
Ya'll had some catching up to do!
We did! It was like an "A-ha" moment. It was amazing. [Laughs] I was the most peaceful I've ever been. Just so happy to be a wife.
What are the three IMPERATIVE things every bride must have WITH her at the wedding on her day?
A lot of women forget this--make sure you have the right undergarments. Don't be afraid to splurge and go to a lingerie specialist. Get the right bodice, Spanx--you CANNOT leave without your Spanx--it just keeps it smooth and SUCKED in and you look great. [Laughs]
Another thing is, carry your memories with you of why you two are getting married. And carry a clear mind--make sure you're totally present.
Then make sure you have your sidekick--your girlfriend, your maid of honor, your mom, whoever it is, RIGHT THERE by your side. Someone who you can look at in the eye and have their support. My mom wasn't on the reality show because she didn't want to be. She's so private. But my mom was with me every step of the way. So supportive.
What advice didn't you get that you figured out along the way?
That's a very good question.....Oh! That you were going to be SO emotional! No one prepared me for that. I watched Nick Lachey and Vanessa Manillo's wedding and she was emotional too.
And Tia wasn't emotional at her wedding. I mean...I'm a girly girl. And she's not really. So I wasn't even prepared for that. The advice I would give is--you're going to have to make a lot of decisions. But they don't have to be perfect!
And Tia kept trying to tell you that throughout the entire season!
I know! I know....a bride should just step away and try to listen to what others are trying to tell you. Take heed.
What's your advice on dealing with in-laws? You now that can be a doozy....
My in-laws are amazing! They spoil me so much. I have the best sister-in-law. She's my friend. We're both in interracial marriages. She was actually on the show, we just didn't get to introduce her. She was in my bridesmaid pictures (shown above)--she's Filipino. And I love that since she's in an interracial marriage as well, we can bond on that. She's just amazing. I love her.
Our YBF readers who are currently planning their weddings sent in questions for you. Here's 3 of them for you to answer.
Oh I love this!
Ok. Shanelle Armstrong asked "I am getting married on May 12, 2012. Destination is Mexico. My question is - what is one thing that if you had to do all over at your wedding that you would have done differently or not at all."
You know what..I don't regret anything. And I think the lesson to be learned here is that things will not all go right. You will not have a perfect wedding. But, just because you don't have a perfect wedding, does not mean it won't be amazing. My wedding was amazing. I don't regret anything.
Jasmine Pettaway asked, "I'm getting married Fall 2012. What's the top 3 things brides should do to prepare for their big day?"
One, I would say def have a trial session for hair and makeup. So you're not worried about how that's going to look--you know it's going to look amazing. The other thing is, based on what I said before, whether it's stretching, meditating, reading, definitely clear your mind. So you can be present and remember everything. It goes by so fast! And the other thing--HAVE FUN! Remember, you're marrying the man of your dreams and just let go! Let everything go--your worries, your fears, let it go! And have fun.
Dee Dee asked, "My fiance and I want to have a nice, elegant wedding, but we can't afford anything huge. How can we have the wedding of our dreams without breaking our bank?"
Well the reader wants an actual wedding. But I have a friend who went to her favorite place--you can go anywhere--and brought a couple of close friends and family. And got married there. Then she had the reception in her backyard using the money she saved. You can have your fave restaurant cater, you can set everything up yourself, and you can make something look elegant for not a lot of money. It was one of our fave receptions ever.
You have to be creative. Adam and I had a photobooth set up and had costume pieces for our friends to put on. And my friend, for her wedding, went to Cost U Less and stitched her guests' names on the bottom of their glasses. So they could take them home as favors.
That's a wrap! I know you're going to talk about making a baby your next move on the finale tonight, but for the record, you all are definitely ready?
Yes! I love children. Seeing my sister with Cree--he is absolutely adorable. I do want to focus on our marriage right now just because I'm having so much fun. And I know once you have a baby, you die to yourself. [Laughs] That's it! It's all about the baby.
Check out all of Tamera & Adam's wedding photos HERE. And don't forget to tune-in to watch the season finale of Tia & Tamera TONIGHT 9/8c only on The Style Network!
Happy Anniversary Barack and Michelle Obama!!
Today, President Barack Obama & his lovely Chocolate Bride, Michelle celebrate 19 years of wedded bliss. There is simply not enough that can be said about the First Family. They exploded onto the world scene and within a matter of a few short years captured the ultimate political prize. In so doing, they became a First Couple like no other.
President Barack Obama first met Michelle in the summer of 1989. Three years later on October 3rd, 1992, they became husband and wife.
About Their Wedding Day
Michelle and Barack’s wedding ceremony was performed on October 3, 1992 by Rev. Jeremiah A. Wright Jr. at Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, Illinois. Michelle’s brother Craig walked her down the aisle. The reception was held at the South Shore Cultural Center. Stevie Wonder’s classic, “You and I” was Michelle and Obama’s wedding song.
On Making It Last
Barack and Michelle understand the importance of putting a priority on their time together. Even with both of their busy schedules, Barack and Michelle make time for one another. In an ABC interview, Michelle said that “Barack didn’t pledge riches, only a life that would be interesting. On that promise he’s delivered.” She also said as part of the division of labor in their house, Barack did the grocery shopping. Michelle Obama stood by her husband every step of the way throughout the entire campaign for president, balancing the job of being a mother, the duty of being a wife, the pressures of having her fashion scrutinized, and the prospects of being the future First Lady.
Barack on Michelle:
“Michelle is a tremendously strong person, and has a very strong sense of herself and who she is and where she comes from. But I also think in her eyes you can see a trace of vulnerability that most people don’t know, because when she’s walking through the world she is this tall, beautiful, confident woman. There is a part of her that is vulnerable and young and sometimes frightened, and I think seeing both of those things is what attracted me to her. And then what sustains our relationship is I’m extremely happy with her, and part of it has to do with the fact that she is at once completely familiar to me, so that I can be myself and she knows me very well and I trust her completely, but at the same time she is also a complete mystery to me in some ways. And there are times when we are lying in bed and I look over and sort of have a start. Because I realize here is this other person who is separate and different and has different memories and backgrounds and thoughts and feelings. It’s that tension between familiarity and mystery that makes for something strong, because, even as you build a life of trust and comfort and mutual support, you retain some sense of surprise or wonder about the other person.”
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FIRST COUPLE......
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Tyrese Feat. Brandy - "Rest Of Our Lives"
A good song that Jeamy recommended. Thanks J!!
Diva Report: First Listen: Tyrese Feat. Brandy - "Rest Of Our L...
Diva Report: First Listen: Tyrese Feat. Brandy - "Rest Of Our L...
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Congratulations Renee and Darryl
Today is the big day for my cousin Renee and her fiancee Darryl. Their love story is a story of love when young, gone and brought back together forever. I am so excited for the both of them and wish them nothing but the best on their special day!
