My daughter is so excited about Scott and I getting married (As you probably have seen from her video tribute to us) that she has created a collage of her new family unit to share....Enjoy.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Photo of the Week
This Photo of the Week is Scott and I on my 30th Birthday at Disneyland.
We met at a company, Gorilla Nation Media, and I had been working there for almost 4 years when layoffs hit me 4 days before my birthday. Scott was still there (for another 2 months before he left) and knew that I was not up for too many things because of what happened, So the best way to pick a girl up when she is feeling down is to take her to Disneyland to celebrate her birthday. We had lunch at Blue Bayou, Rode the rides, and it was truly one of the best birthdays I had ever had.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
10 Ways to Ruin a Wedding
1. Speak Up During the Ceremony
We've heard the horror stories — the "Are you sure?" from the minister, the "Don't do it man" groomsmen comment and the vocal grandmother using her time as reader at the pulpit to offer her humble opinion. Yikes.
Instead: If you have information on either the bride or groom that could be a relationship game changer, the ceremony is not the time to reveal it. Any reservations about the relationship should be brought up in private long before the ceremony.
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 5 out of 5
2. Stick Your Finger in the Cake
Believe it or not, guests do this. There's nothing cute or okay about touching the piece de resistance of the reception menu. Besides the sanitary factor, wedding cakes are expensive and should only be handled by three people: the bride, the groom and the caterer.
Instead: It sounds ridiculous and should go without saying, but if you can't get close to a wedding cake without touching it, don't go near it.
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 3 out of 5
3. Wear White
We don't care if it's the middle of summer and your little white sundress is the most flattering thing in your closet. Do not, we repeat, do not wear white to someone else's wedding. Most brides have been looking forward to their moment in the spotlight — as the only one in white. While it's true no one could possibly upstage the bride, it's considered the ultimate guest dress no-no. The other color to avoid wearing at a wedding? Bright red.
Instead: Colorful tones like pinks, yellows and purples are all fair game. Just stay away from anything in the white and ivory color family.
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 3 out of 5
4. Use the Wedding to Hook Up
Yes, it's true, a wedding is a great place to meet other singles — there's a great venue, lighting, food, everyone is dressed to the nines — but please refrain from using the reception like you would a club. In other words, no making out on the dance floor with the bride's cousin or the groom's brother. Do you really want to be that guest?
Instead: Hey, if sparks are really flying, feel free to ask for a number and make a date.
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 4 out of 5
5. Give a Roast Toast
Just because you have a microphone in your hand that doesn't give you free rein to tell the most outrageous college drinking story or reveal what happened in Vegas. It's also not the time to talk about old boyfriends or reveal the groom's most embarrassing habits.
Instead: Give your speech the grandma test. If it's not PG-rated and something you'd be comfortable telling her, it's not wedding reception toast material.
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 4 out of 5
6. Drink Too Much
Your friend's wedding celebration is just that — it's not a fraternity party. Know your limit and don't go over it. Making a fool of yourself in front of everyone, falling all over the place or leaving the party early because you couldn't handle your liquor isn't the way you want your best friend's new wife to remember you, is it?
Instead: Save the shots for the bachelor party.
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 3 out of 5
7. Let the Kids Run Wild
You know the scene: the shrieking kids terrorizing the dance floor during dinner, the toddler tantrum during the toast, the loud baby screaming over the vows during the ceremony — all potentially nightmare situations for the couple getting married, not to mention the other guests.
Instead: Confirm that there's child care available at the reception and make arrangements, or leave the kiddies at home for the evening.Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 4 out of 5
8. Spill Anything on the Bride
That gorgeous white wedding dress more than likely cost the bride a couple thousand. And while she probably won't have another reason to wear it again, a drink spilled on the wedding dress still ranks as one of the worst mistakes a guest could make.
Instead: You can't be too careful holding a beverage near the bride. If you have a glass of red wine or Coke in your hand, put it down.
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 5 out of 5
9. Hit on the Waitstaff
It might sound crass (because it is), but we've heard plenty of stories of rowdy guests corralling the waitstaff to dance with them. Not only is it completely inappropriate, it'll be really embarrassing when the catering manager pulls you aside to file a formal harassment complaint.
Instead: Uh, just don't?
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 3 out of 5
10. Tell the DJ to Change the Music
At your wedding, you get to choose the music. Otherwise, the tunes aren't in your control. You could end up requesting a song that was on the couple's do-not-play list (like, say, one with unsettling sentimental feelings attached).
Instead: Unless the bride or groom expressly asks you to talk to the band or DJ about a song request, keep your song suggestions to yourself.
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 4 out of 5
We've heard the horror stories — the "Are you sure?" from the minister, the "Don't do it man" groomsmen comment and the vocal grandmother using her time as reader at the pulpit to offer her humble opinion. Yikes.
Instead: If you have information on either the bride or groom that could be a relationship game changer, the ceremony is not the time to reveal it. Any reservations about the relationship should be brought up in private long before the ceremony.
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 5 out of 5
2. Stick Your Finger in the Cake
Believe it or not, guests do this. There's nothing cute or okay about touching the piece de resistance of the reception menu. Besides the sanitary factor, wedding cakes are expensive and should only be handled by three people: the bride, the groom and the caterer.
Instead: It sounds ridiculous and should go without saying, but if you can't get close to a wedding cake without touching it, don't go near it.
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 3 out of 5
3. Wear White
We don't care if it's the middle of summer and your little white sundress is the most flattering thing in your closet. Do not, we repeat, do not wear white to someone else's wedding. Most brides have been looking forward to their moment in the spotlight — as the only one in white. While it's true no one could possibly upstage the bride, it's considered the ultimate guest dress no-no. The other color to avoid wearing at a wedding? Bright red.
Instead: Colorful tones like pinks, yellows and purples are all fair game. Just stay away from anything in the white and ivory color family.
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 3 out of 5
4. Use the Wedding to Hook Up
Yes, it's true, a wedding is a great place to meet other singles — there's a great venue, lighting, food, everyone is dressed to the nines — but please refrain from using the reception like you would a club. In other words, no making out on the dance floor with the bride's cousin or the groom's brother. Do you really want to be that guest?
Instead: Hey, if sparks are really flying, feel free to ask for a number and make a date.
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 4 out of 5
5. Give a Roast Toast
Just because you have a microphone in your hand that doesn't give you free rein to tell the most outrageous college drinking story or reveal what happened in Vegas. It's also not the time to talk about old boyfriends or reveal the groom's most embarrassing habits.
Instead: Give your speech the grandma test. If it's not PG-rated and something you'd be comfortable telling her, it's not wedding reception toast material.
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 4 out of 5
6. Drink Too Much
Your friend's wedding celebration is just that — it's not a fraternity party. Know your limit and don't go over it. Making a fool of yourself in front of everyone, falling all over the place or leaving the party early because you couldn't handle your liquor isn't the way you want your best friend's new wife to remember you, is it?
Instead: Save the shots for the bachelor party.
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 3 out of 5
7. Let the Kids Run Wild
You know the scene: the shrieking kids terrorizing the dance floor during dinner, the toddler tantrum during the toast, the loud baby screaming over the vows during the ceremony — all potentially nightmare situations for the couple getting married, not to mention the other guests.
Instead: Confirm that there's child care available at the reception and make arrangements, or leave the kiddies at home for the evening.Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 4 out of 5
8. Spill Anything on the Bride
That gorgeous white wedding dress more than likely cost the bride a couple thousand. And while she probably won't have another reason to wear it again, a drink spilled on the wedding dress still ranks as one of the worst mistakes a guest could make.
Instead: You can't be too careful holding a beverage near the bride. If you have a glass of red wine or Coke in your hand, put it down.
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 5 out of 5
9. Hit on the Waitstaff
It might sound crass (because it is), but we've heard plenty of stories of rowdy guests corralling the waitstaff to dance with them. Not only is it completely inappropriate, it'll be really embarrassing when the catering manager pulls you aside to file a formal harassment complaint.
Instead: Uh, just don't?
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 3 out of 5
10. Tell the DJ to Change the Music
At your wedding, you get to choose the music. Otherwise, the tunes aren't in your control. You could end up requesting a song that was on the couple's do-not-play list (like, say, one with unsettling sentimental feelings attached).
Instead: Unless the bride or groom expressly asks you to talk to the band or DJ about a song request, keep your song suggestions to yourself.
Totally Ruined Wedding Scale: 4 out of 5
How to Find a Plus-Size Wedding Dress....
Q: “I’m a plus-size bride and am having trouble finding a flattering dress. Any idea of what I should look for?” —Katherine, Seattle
A: In the past, I have helped many plus-sized brides find their ultimate gown. It is a process of finding out what you have envisioned and melding that idea with what looks flattering on curvier figures. There are many gown silhouettes that can look great, depending on what you would like to highlight and what you would like to hide.
Here are my Top 10 suggestions for finding the perfect dress for you:
Find a bridal boutique or salon that gives personalized service and will spend a little extra time working with you to help you with your concerns.
Go shopping with a very good, uplifting support strapless bra, preferably a bustier, as it will be low enough in the back to accommodate most gowns.
Focus on dresses with fuller skirts. They balance the body and make the hips and waist appear slimmer.
Wrap-around or criss-cross designs at the waist are good for hiding tummy issues.
Avoid gowns with horizontal design lines, stripes or patterns—they will widen the body.
Make sure that custom bodices (built to your measurements) are available if you are very “gifted” on top!
Higher V-neck, sweetheart or straight-across necklines are the most flattering on plus-size women.
Elongate the midriff—it will make your top and bottom appear smaller. Look for dresses with either an empire seam or dropped waist seam.
Think simple and long in design, elegant and luscious in fabrics, and stay away from too much beaded or appliquéd detail – it can draw attention to the parts that we want to cover.
Lastly, remember that designer sizing usually runs about a size or two smaller than everyday dress sizes. Sizes 16 and up are couture plus sizes. Remember this is only a number and not to take it too literally.
The most important part of finding your gown is to have fun. Make sure you choose a boutique or salon that has helpful and warm consultants, that you feel comfortable, and that they have the knowledge to help you with your concerns. Gowns are designed for all shapes and sizes, so there is a perfect, gorgeous gown out there waiting for you!
A: In the past, I have helped many plus-sized brides find their ultimate gown. It is a process of finding out what you have envisioned and melding that idea with what looks flattering on curvier figures. There are many gown silhouettes that can look great, depending on what you would like to highlight and what you would like to hide.
Here are my Top 10 suggestions for finding the perfect dress for you:
Find a bridal boutique or salon that gives personalized service and will spend a little extra time working with you to help you with your concerns.
Go shopping with a very good, uplifting support strapless bra, preferably a bustier, as it will be low enough in the back to accommodate most gowns.
Focus on dresses with fuller skirts. They balance the body and make the hips and waist appear slimmer.
Wrap-around or criss-cross designs at the waist are good for hiding tummy issues.
Avoid gowns with horizontal design lines, stripes or patterns—they will widen the body.
Make sure that custom bodices (built to your measurements) are available if you are very “gifted” on top!
Higher V-neck, sweetheart or straight-across necklines are the most flattering on plus-size women.
Elongate the midriff—it will make your top and bottom appear smaller. Look for dresses with either an empire seam or dropped waist seam.
Think simple and long in design, elegant and luscious in fabrics, and stay away from too much beaded or appliquéd detail – it can draw attention to the parts that we want to cover.
Lastly, remember that designer sizing usually runs about a size or two smaller than everyday dress sizes. Sizes 16 and up are couture plus sizes. Remember this is only a number and not to take it too literally.
The most important part of finding your gown is to have fun. Make sure you choose a boutique or salon that has helpful and warm consultants, that you feel comfortable, and that they have the knowledge to help you with your concerns. Gowns are designed for all shapes and sizes, so there is a perfect, gorgeous gown out there waiting for you!
Love and Loss...
Today would have been my Uncle Junior's birthday and My Aunt Bea (God I Love Her) is having a hard time with it today. My Uncle passed away suddenly 7 years ago and the pain of him not being here is still very fresh to her. I could not imagine my life without Scott and I hurt a little for her and my cousins today.
When you find a life partner, your best friend, lover and companion you never really do think of loosing them in any way but I'm sure when it does, the pain is great and the heartache is even greater.
I pray that my Aunt Bea is going to have a good day......Hugs to my family.
When you find a life partner, your best friend, lover and companion you never really do think of loosing them in any way but I'm sure when it does, the pain is great and the heartache is even greater.
I pray that my Aunt Bea is going to have a good day......Hugs to my family.
Time Flies
Even thought we have over a year until the big day, the countdown seems to be ticking away very quickly. The closer it gets, the more and more I anticipate it. There seems to be so much for us to do and with the time moving so quickly, I will have to learn that whatever we have will do because when it is all said and done, We will be Mr. and Mrs. Cameron no matter what.
In addition to that, I feel like all my thoughts are geared towards being a wife. I try and look at people around me and see how they handle things because I want to be a good wife for Scott.... He deserves that and so much more. I try to also remember that we are a team and when the going gets tough, the tough get tougher!
That being said, I am going to move forward, be patience and it will all work it self out....
473 days and counting.....
In addition to that, I feel like all my thoughts are geared towards being a wife. I try and look at people around me and see how they handle things because I want to be a good wife for Scott.... He deserves that and so much more. I try to also remember that we are a team and when the going gets tough, the tough get tougher!
That being said, I am going to move forward, be patience and it will all work it self out....
473 days and counting.....
Monday, July 11, 2011
Wedding Favors
With a Chocolate Theme Wedding should come Chocolate wedding favors but with so many to choose from and so many ideas, what are we to do... here are a few that I thought would be fun to have but, as always, we are open to suggestions....
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Friday, July 8, 2011
Toilet paper wedding dress winner wipes competition away
BOCA RATON, Fla. — A Michigan woman's toilet paper creation earned her top honors in the seventh annual Toilet Paper Wedding Dress Contest.
Susan Brennan of Orchard Lake, Mich., was one of five contestants vying to become the grand prize winner Thursday at Boca Raton Bridal in Florida.
The competition judges the best bridal dresses made out of toilet paper. Dresses are judged on creativity, originality, beauty and use of toilet paper.
Brennan says her dress was inspired by nature. The dress was created with four rolls of toilet paper, hot glue and packing tape.
Laura Lee of Milpitas, Calif., came in second place.
Lee says she was inspired by how new brides want to look and feel in their wedding dresses. She used five rolls of one-ply toilet paper, transparent duct tape, first aid tape and spray adhesive to make her dress.
Cynthia Richards of Marietta, Ga., finished third.
Richards says her dress was inspired by her business partner's dream. She used 20 rolls of toilet paper, duct tape, hot glue, Mod Podge glue and fabric glue to make the dress.
As grand prize winner, Brennan takes home $1,000. Lee takes home $500 for her second-place finish, and Richards takes home $250 for her third-place finish
Thursday, July 7, 2011
HAPPY CHOCOLATE DAY
Since our wedding colors are Chocolate, Vanilla and Red Velvet (Or as Scott would say Brown, White and Red) I thought it would be fun to post some of our favorite Chocolate treats in honor of this special day.... Enjoy!
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Photo of the Week
To bring a smile to people's face, this photo of the week was taken after an intense day of Black Friday shopping. This is the silly part of us that we both love in each other. I love to laugh with Scott, it makes me feel a little child like and lets me know that life with him will have those fun moments for sure.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Wedding Planning Advice
So I know that I am not an expert on the subject as of yet, but I feel like more and more I learn new things about wedding planning and here is what I know so far:
- Having a separate email for wedding emails is the best way to go...if not, you will be flooded with multiple emails a day which you might not need
- Planning at least a year out is good, if that's what you want to do. We are more than a year out and I feel good about it. Having a great day to symbolize the union of you and your mate is ideal and even better if its the way you want it to be.
- A wedding web site is a great way for friends and family to get to know you as a couple. Its also a great way to share information about your special day.
- Looking for a venue can be difficult, but make sure you have an open mind and stick to your budget.
- Speaking of budget, let the budget be your friend. Stay on track with it as much as you can and let it be your guide.
- Finally, remember the day is not about everyone else, it is about the 2 of you. Communicate, Agree and Enjoy as much as you can. Scott and I have been doing all those things during this process and it is working well so far(Cross your fingers it continues that way) and I am glad to have a partner in him.
I hope these few tips help someone out there in their journey to marriage.
480 days and counting......
Monday, July 4, 2011
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Happy 4th
Scott is out with the guys fishing and I will admit, I miss him but I'm glad he is having fun.
Hope everyone has a beautiful 4th and be safe out there!!!
Jasmine
Hope everyone has a beautiful 4th and be safe out there!!!
Jasmine
