Escapades in Bridal Land

I must say. I really am enjoying being a bride. Not because of everyone wanting to see your ring or congratulating you - actually that tends to get old and makes you want to post a sign on your forehead with your wedding date. But because of the guarantee to see good friends and family all along the way. Today defined one of those great bridal moments - at a bridal show here in Richmond. With my mother-in-law-to-be in town for a visit, my maid of honor Jec-Jec and bridesmaid Crystal, and my Mom and Jec-Jec's Mom, we were able to look at a lot of vendors for the services we still need: flowers, cake and stationary. It was a lot of fun but definitely sensory overload! Thankfully, I am ahead of the game so I didn't need 80% of the services there, it felt good to not have to worry about a photographer or dress or even reception site - I could see how something like this could make a bride into a bridezilla. It was a nice day to be inside with it being so cold 'n all.

The other great thing about being a bride is the dress - what a great time trying on dresses. They all looked great but then I tried on "the one" and my heart melted and I didn't want to take it off. It's so funny how you do "just know." I certainly didn't expect to find one so soon - which is why neither my Mom nor I were excited about the experience (sample sale) nor did we have high hopes (sample sale again). Thanks to the sample sale though we were able to get a dress for 3x's less than it would've been if we had paid full price. Which is great because it leaves some of the budget open for the question mark of the moment - head count at at the reception. That's the next big check on the list.

What probably has me MOST excited right now is our photographer. He was at the bridal show today and was so warm and welcoming and his photographs are so natural that I feel even more fortunate to have him on our big day. On the 18th of this month we have our engagement pictures taken and I can't wait to see how they turn out. I am looking forward to a third party capturing my love for Mike and his for mine on camera. Especially with downtown Richmond, the city that enabled us to fall in love, as the backdrop. Plus, the name "Mike" tends to be a lucky charm in my life - and that's his name. He used to be the White House photographer and you can tell in his level of professionalism and ability to capture picture perfect moments that aren't posed. It's just very, very exciting.

I guess this post is just to say that I'm having a lot of fun and more and more I can't wait to share this day with all of you.