Monday, July 23, 2012
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SISSY!!
Today is my Sissy's Birthday and I think this is the 1st time ever we have been apart for her special day. She has started a life for herself in Houston and I know the family there will make sure that she enjoys every part of her day. Happy Birthday Tai! Love You!
The Ocreanside, Chops and Bubbles..
Hey Blog Buddies, Here is my Weekend Recap
Friday Night I got off of work and came home to prepare for Family Weekend.
We had Lasagna for dinner
And Scott had some Champagne where the bubbles would not stop moving....
It was like a Wind Tunnel... You had to be there to see it.
Saturday morning after getting the kids up and making breakfast, I got Jace off to cheer practice and found out that her team was having a slumber party that night. So after dropping her off for the party, Scott, Isaiah and I hit the road for "The Oceanside".
Scott and I have been there before but this would be our 1st road trip with Isaiah for that length of time. For the most part he did well up until we were about 20 minutes away.. We found out it was because he needed to use the restroom but we fix that right away..... :)
Upon arrival at the Murray's home, we chatted for a minute before heading out to dinner at Casa De Bandidi... Here are a few pictures from the restaurant.
The Birthday Boy....Day Day! (With his niece Jillian's fingers behind him)
Day Day and Miss Jenkins....LOL
3 the hard way
After some warming up, he became a ladies man...
HUGE Black Cherry Margarita... SO GOOD.
Scott's dinner... He could not understand why it was so much food... The dinner is called the Macho Grande.....LOL
After dinner we headed over to Jonathan's sister Allison house for dessert and hanging out before hitting the highway back home. Isaiah wanted to stay and play but we told him we would be back in a few weeks to hang out some more.
Sunday was mostly a chill day for us. We got up and had breakfast and chill out for the first part of the day.
We are super geeky sometimes but you got to love us!!
After that, I went and picked up Jacelyn from her Slumber Party (Which she had a blast at) and came home to cook dinner all by myself.
On the menu was Grilled Pork Chops with Homemade Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Cornbread and Ice Tea... Such a great meal and a good time to spend with the family.
Here is whats on tap for this week:
1. Finalizing Details for the Bridal Shower with my Sissy
2. Checking in on Bachelorette Functions
3. Flowers... Yeah I know its a pain
4. Some things done around the house
5. Checking in with the Parents/Grandparents
6. Hopefully some time with JBJ and SC.
96 days to go....... :)
Friday, July 20, 2012
Shaqua and Tron... True Love
The story of Shaqua and I is funny and cute. She and I are apart of a Wedding Website, Wedding Bee and one day I posted a photo of Scott and I and she said, I know your fiancee. From there we have become fast internet friends. She and her husband Tron got married last June and today there were featured in an article for Ebony and Munaluchi Bridal ... How cool is that? Here is the article in full:
When love flows through written words and across “technology lines”, it is certainly worth exploring. Before Shaqua and Tron met in person, they connected online. Their connection was so profound that they decided to meet in person . Upon meeting in person, they were smitten. The search was over and love had won! Their wedding day was beautifully photographed by Maria and Tommy of MarieSam Sanchez Photography. Also, check out this stylish couple over on our partner site Ebony.com.
Bride: Shaqua Hargress
Groom: Tron Miles
Occupations: Bride – Project Manager; Groom – Ramp Agent for Delta Airlines
Location: Long Beach California
Wedding Date: 06.11.2011
The Meeting ….. “The two “met” each other on a lifestyle blog; both were frequent visitors of the site. After several months of correspondences, the two finally met in person and they’ve been inseparable ever since!”
The Proposal ….. “Shaquá went to New Orleans Father’s Day weekend to meet Tron’s parents for the first time. On Friday morning, June 18, 2010, Tron prepared Shaquá’s favorite breakfast dish, pancakes. After serving her the plate of short-stacks, he jokingly reminded her of the first time he cooked pancakes for her and how the bottom pancake was not fully cooked. Subsequently, he suggested that she check the pancakes for soggy flap-jacks. To her surprise, there was a diamond engagement ring in between the pancakes. Looking up with excitement, Shaquá noticed Tron down on one knee asking her to marry him.”
Wedding Theme & Challenges ….. “Since Tron is from New Orleans and only his immediate family would be able to attend the wedding, I decided to go with a New Orleans theme to bring his city and culture to Los Angeles. The colors I chose, black and gold, were representative of the Saints football team. I planned the wedding myself, which was fun and stressful at the same time. My wants were bigger than the budget. However, the major challenge was finding a second line band in Los Angeles.”
Incorporating Culture ….. “We incorporated New Orleans culture via the food: shrimp étouffée, grilled tenderloin of beef served with marchand de vin sauce, and grilled chicken breast served with cajun butter sauce and Louisiana dirty rice; the second line band; and the Mardi Gras bead toss.”
The Most Unforgettable Moment ….. “The dancing was the most memorable part. We danced from the first song, all the way to the last.”
Enjoy their wedding video by Impressive Creations Wedding Cinematography.
Click here to view the full gallery.
VENDORS
Now that they are happily married.. They are also expecting a Mini Me in the Fall! Congratulations to you Shaqua and Tron. This feature is AWESOME and I am looking forward to many more great things from you both.
California Wedding with a New Orleans Theme: Shay + Tron
Bride: Shaqua Hargress
Groom: Tron Miles
Occupations: Bride – Project Manager; Groom – Ramp Agent for Delta Airlines
Location: Long Beach California
Wedding Date: 06.11.2011
The Meeting ….. “The two “met” each other on a lifestyle blog; both were frequent visitors of the site. After several months of correspondences, the two finally met in person and they’ve been inseparable ever since!”
The Proposal ….. “Shaquá went to New Orleans Father’s Day weekend to meet Tron’s parents for the first time. On Friday morning, June 18, 2010, Tron prepared Shaquá’s favorite breakfast dish, pancakes. After serving her the plate of short-stacks, he jokingly reminded her of the first time he cooked pancakes for her and how the bottom pancake was not fully cooked. Subsequently, he suggested that she check the pancakes for soggy flap-jacks. To her surprise, there was a diamond engagement ring in between the pancakes. Looking up with excitement, Shaquá noticed Tron down on one knee asking her to marry him.”
Wedding Theme & Challenges ….. “Since Tron is from New Orleans and only his immediate family would be able to attend the wedding, I decided to go with a New Orleans theme to bring his city and culture to Los Angeles. The colors I chose, black and gold, were representative of the Saints football team. I planned the wedding myself, which was fun and stressful at the same time. My wants were bigger than the budget. However, the major challenge was finding a second line band in Los Angeles.”
Incorporating Culture ….. “We incorporated New Orleans culture via the food: shrimp étouffée, grilled tenderloin of beef served with marchand de vin sauce, and grilled chicken breast served with cajun butter sauce and Louisiana dirty rice; the second line band; and the Mardi Gras bead toss.”
The Most Unforgettable Moment ….. “The dancing was the most memorable part. We danced from the first song, all the way to the last.”
{You Make Loving You So Easy}
He loves ….. “my brains.”
She loves ….. “How he takes care of me.”
Enjoy their wedding video by Impressive Creations Wedding Cinematography.
Click here to view the full gallery.
VENDORS
- Donya Vaughn, Wedding Coordinator/Planner : As You Like Services
- Ceremony Dress: David’s Bridal
- Reception Dress: Milly’s Bridal
- Shoes: Glint ‘Devyn’ from Nordstrom
- Ceremony Headpiece: David’s Bridal
- Tuxedo: Men’s Wearhouse
- Makeup Artist: Julie Engelton of Beauty Accents
- Hair Stylist: Shawnda Bolden of Oasis Hair Salon (contact: lsrbolden@aol.com)
- Videographer: Impressive Creations Wedding Cinematography
- Caterer: Jay’s Catering
- Cake/Bakery: Erica O’Brien Cake Design
- Floral Designer: Empora Flora
- Ceremony Quartet: Divisi Strings
- Second Line Band: New Orleans Jazz Band
- DJ: DJ Dense
- Officiant: Bishop A.B. Brown (contact: abbrowntractministries@gmail.com)
- Linens/Rentals: Del Rey Party Rentals
- Transportation: American Limo, Inc.
Now that they are happily married.. They are also expecting a Mini Me in the Fall! Congratulations to you Shaqua and Tron. This feature is AWESOME and I am looking forward to many more great things from you both.
Diamonds, Dessert and Diva Swag Bag!!!
Last Night I was invited to a wonderful event for Robbins Brothers, Simon G. Jewelry, The Knot and Dress for Success. It was a Social Media event were I got to mix and mingle with the Wedding world and all it has to offer. There I was able to try on Diamonds, Taste come Yummy Sweet Treats and get Swagged out with fun gifts. Here ate a few photos from the night:
Robbins Brothers Glendale... So many nice people there... Thanks for your service
Me and Ms. Tracey on the Red Carpet... #celebritystatus
The Simon G Bling I got to try out.... Sorry about the cleavage shot...LOL
The Simon G Case... So Sparkly
All the WONDERFUL desserts from Cake Moments.... So good
Cupcake Tower...YUM!
The lovely flowers on the table were made by Bridgette from PetalBlushLove.. Very nice lady and I am looking forward to ordering from her.... O and the Cake Pops as well..Love the trend of them now
Our Hostess Tracey introducing everyone
Nellie from Dress for Success... A great organization for Women in need.. Check out their website for more info.
The lovely necklace I soooo wanted to take home or have in my swag bag but had to leave at the store.
One of the best cakes I have ever had...Karen from Cake Moments is a true Sweet Artist.
The latest issue of The Knot.. Go out and get it, it has some great items in there this issue
Rebecca from The Knot... Great Representative of the company... Happy Birthday as well to her!
My new BFF'S Tracey and Shulie from Robbins Brothers Marketing Team...LOVE THEM!
Shulie and I.. She is adorable
My Diva Glam Swag Bag..
Love the Swag Bag and all the contents!! #diva
It was such a great event and I was able to reach out and see some great people that I hope to feature in future post and here are some of those you can look forward to seeing:
Jeff Lewis of Jeff Lewis Wedding Photography.
Bridgette of Petal Blush Love
Laura Lambson of Noor Events
Karen Peyton-Cruz of Cake Moments
I am looking forward to branching out more into blogging and maybe making a small career out of it.. who knows, I can be all I want to be.
Friday Letters
Dear God,
Thank You for getting me through another week... YOU ROCK!
Dear 776 Sisters,
We may not be blood but we are love... I Love You all and I cherish our friendships and sisterhood.
Dear Tracey and Shulie,
You 2 are FAB! So happy I got a chance to meet you all in person and the recap from last night is coming very soon...like next post soon.
Dear Jonathan,
Happy Birthday Day Day!! So happy to have you in my life and apart of Scott and I's special day! Cant wait to see you this weekend for dinner and laughs.
Dear Scott,
I am glad that you are starting to feel better... I don't like when you are not 100%. I know it has been a long week for you as well but I AM PROUD of how you are handling everything that has come your way. I Love You More than you think I do..LOL
Dear Countdown...
I got 99 days till the big one HIT ME!!
Thursday, July 19, 2012
The Problem Guest And The Prepared Bride - Guest Management 101
There are always those people that you HAVE to invite. You know, the ones you'd prefer to leave off the list, but unfortunately, they are family, etc. and so sadly it's not an option. And oftentimes it's those same people who are the drunken jerks, total ragers and fight starters. But sometimes the one at fault is YOU, the bride. So be the solution, and be prepared, brideys!
1. If you are put in the unfortunate position of having to invite a few "undesirables," then be proactive. Hire security. Procure them before the wedding for short money, and huge piece of mind. Give the security team pictures and/or descriptions, and let them know that if there is even an inkling of an issue, to stop it before it starts. Kick them out! And make sure they know that they have the authority to do so without your approval. Trust me, it's best not to know and to be left out of the loop during the drama.
2. Provide relief. Provide water bottles and fans. Seriously, there's been a lot of talk about outdoor weddings on an extremely hot day, and it's up to YOU, the bride (and groom) to provide the appropriate supplies to your guests. Particularly water, some lovely fans or even parasols (and small damp scented towels are a lovely thought too). Although, HYDRATION should be at the top of this list. Not only is important for you, bridey (and the groom), but for your guests too! So give them what they need or pay the sweaty, sticky price.
3. There are always some losers who try to steal bottles of booze from the bar. Again, be proactive. If you know that this is a possibility, then make the staff at the venue aware (and security if you have decided to procure a team). That way, the venue won't showcase the bottles on the bar, but behind it. That will minimize the temptation, and not for nothing ... it'll minimize YOUR bar bill.
4. "Who IS that chick and why is she dancing like that at my wedding? Really?" I know!! Put your maid of honor on it (unless she's the offender!). Tell her to be casual, but have her "cut in" and gracefully move the party off the floor.
5. Tell yourself that if you are going to provide a basket for the restroom, that you don't care what happens to it. Personally, I hate them and think that your guests should be responsible for bringing their own tampons and mouthwash, but if you are leaning toward providing one, then just know that you won't see it again. Ever. Not the contents nor the actual basket. People attack them like your grandma stealing bread and Equal packets at Applebee's. Okay? It's gonna happen, so either don't provide one or provide one and tell yourself that what happens to it doesn't matter.
Well, that's it for now. Write it down, brideys, and thank me later.
1. If you are put in the unfortunate position of having to invite a few "undesirables," then be proactive. Hire security. Procure them before the wedding for short money, and huge piece of mind. Give the security team pictures and/or descriptions, and let them know that if there is even an inkling of an issue, to stop it before it starts. Kick them out! And make sure they know that they have the authority to do so without your approval. Trust me, it's best not to know and to be left out of the loop during the drama.
2. Provide relief. Provide water bottles and fans. Seriously, there's been a lot of talk about outdoor weddings on an extremely hot day, and it's up to YOU, the bride (and groom) to provide the appropriate supplies to your guests. Particularly water, some lovely fans or even parasols (and small damp scented towels are a lovely thought too). Although, HYDRATION should be at the top of this list. Not only is important for you, bridey (and the groom), but for your guests too! So give them what they need or pay the sweaty, sticky price.
3. There are always some losers who try to steal bottles of booze from the bar. Again, be proactive. If you know that this is a possibility, then make the staff at the venue aware (and security if you have decided to procure a team). That way, the venue won't showcase the bottles on the bar, but behind it. That will minimize the temptation, and not for nothing ... it'll minimize YOUR bar bill.
4. "Who IS that chick and why is she dancing like that at my wedding? Really?" I know!! Put your maid of honor on it (unless she's the offender!). Tell her to be casual, but have her "cut in" and gracefully move the party off the floor.
5. Tell yourself that if you are going to provide a basket for the restroom, that you don't care what happens to it. Personally, I hate them and think that your guests should be responsible for bringing their own tampons and mouthwash, but if you are leaning toward providing one, then just know that you won't see it again. Ever. Not the contents nor the actual basket. People attack them like your grandma stealing bread and Equal packets at Applebee's. Okay? It's gonna happen, so either don't provide one or provide one and tell yourself that what happens to it doesn't matter.
Well, that's it for now. Write it down, brideys, and thank me later.
17 Celebrity Bridesmaids and Groomsmen
Kirsten Dunst
The bride: Kirsten's childhood best friend, Molly Hanrahan, and Clint StapletonWhen and where: July 2012, Santa Barbara, California
The look: The Melancholia star wore an ethereal nude, pink and white floorlength gown, and finished the look with a lavender wreath and bouquet.
Keira Knightley
The bride: Designer Kerry Nixon and Keira's brother, Caleb KnightleyWhen and where: April 2011, Glasgow, Scotland
The look: Keira wore an above-the-knee plum dress with a V-neck cut and flirty ties at the shoulders.
Pippa Middleton
The bride: Pippa's sister, Kate Middleton, and Prince WilliamWhen and where: April 2011, London England
The look: Even though it was Kate's wedding, all eyes were on Pippa, too. She captivated the crowds (and viewers) in a famously figure-flattering ivory silk gown by Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen.
Rachel Bilson
The bride: Rachel's longtime pal, Jill Stonerock, and TV writer and producer Josh SchwartzWhen and where: September 2008, Santa Barbara, California
The look: Rachel teamed up with designer Brian Reyes to create four one-of-a-kind silk georgette and chiffon dresses in varying soft green shades.
Jessica Biel
The couple: Jessica's close friends (The actress was also spotted as a bridesmaid at 7th Heaven co-star Beverly Mitchell's Italy wedding in 2008)When and where: May 2011, Bronxville, New York
The look: Lucky for Jessica, the bridesmaids were allowed to choose their own looks -- the Total Recall actress opted for a silk cowl neck top with a lace-embroidered floral skirt.
Selena Gomez
The bride: Selena's best friend, Shannon Larossi (they met on the set of Wizard's of Waverly Place)When and where: December 2011, Los Cabos, Mexico
The look: Selena wore a sapphire halter neck dress with large earrings, and held a simple white bouquet of calla lilies.
Katharine McPhee
The bride: Katharine's sister, Adrianna McPheeWhen and where: June 2012, Los Angeles, California
The look: The maid of honor looked stunning in a pale pink V-neck cut gown with a beaded waistline.
Jennifer Garner
The bride: Jennifer's personal assistantWhen and where: October 2006, Montecito, California
The look: Jennifer wore a lilac strapless dress and held a pretty pink and white bouquet.
Kate Bosworth
The couple: Kate's former personal assistant, Jacqui Louez, and record producer Louis SchoorlWhen and where: March 2008, Sydney, Australia
The look: Kate's silky black Lisa Ho dress, offset by a simple all-white bouquet, looked chic against the casual beach backdrop.
Jessica Alba
The couple: Jessica's pals, Jacqui Lang and Amir KhastooWhen and where: September 2011, Beverly Hills, California
The look: A vibrant fuchsia, orange and white bouquet popped against Jessica's royal blue Amsale dress.
Prince Harry
The couple: Kate Middleton and Harry's brother, Prince WilliamWhen and where: London, England, April 2011
The look: Instead of donning a typical suit or tux, Harry wore a dashing military uniform of his latest rank as Captain in the Household Cavalry's Blues and Royals. His Army Air Corps "wings," medals and a few braided cords completed the look.
Chace Crawford
The bride: Chace's sister, Candice Crawford, and football star Tony RomoWhen and where: May 2011, Dallas, Texas
The look: Chace and the other groomsmen wore custom made Dolce & Gabbana tuxes, which consisted of crisp white jackets and black tuxedo pants.
Kellan Lutz
The couple: Sarah Orioio and Kellan's brother, Brandon LutzWhen and where: May 2011, Valencia, California
The look: Kellan wore a simple black suit with a yellow gold tie and calla lilly boutonniere.
Demi Lovato and Wilmer Valderrama
The couple: Disney star Tiffany Thornton and Christopher CarneyWhen and where: November 2011, Hot Springs, Arkansas
The look: Demi's flirty purple one-shoulder dress by BCBG was the perfect offset to Wilmer's toned-down gray and black attire.
Ashley Greene and Nick Jonas
The couple: Paris Carney and Jonas Brothers guitarist Greg GarbowskyWhen: April 2012, Los Angeles, California
The look: The Twilight actress walked down the aisle in a stunning mint green gown. On her arm was Greg's best man, Nick, who suited up in a classic black-and-white ensemble.
