PDA

View Full Version : My Disney World Wedding



Pages : [1] 2 3

Bethanymouse
02-15-2008, 07:21 AM
Hello there fellow intercotees! I am planning a disney world wedding and thought maybe I could share in the planning and process with all of my disney friends? Would you be interested in hearing about it all? We are about a 1 1/2 years out but the planning has begun. If so I can post a journal on here about our planning and ideas. I think it would be helpful for me to hear your input. What do you think?

bleukarma
02-15-2008, 08:10 AM
I would be interested in following along! :mickey: I have never gotten married but I hear the planning process can be very stressful. But Disney World sounds like a great place to do it!!!

kakn7294
02-15-2008, 08:15 AM
I'd also love to follow along. I think it would be interesting to compare the process of planning a Disney wedding to that of a more traditional wedding. I've heard their planners are fantastic and really reduce the amount of stress that typically goes into planning a wedding.

January-2007
02-15-2008, 08:17 AM
Yes, share! That'd be so neat to follow you along in the process, and I know there are several people here who have gotten married in Walt Disney World before, so they'd be a help in this process as well. Have a great time planning!! :mickey: :party:

PirateLover
02-15-2008, 08:21 AM
Post away! I would love to get married in WDW, unfortunately we'll have to settle for a Disneymoon. I'd love to live vicariously through your planning!:mickey:

tinklover
02-15-2008, 08:41 AM
I would love to follow along. DBF and I have looked into Disney weddings and have both agreed that when he pops the question we are going to have one :cloud9::D

SBETigg
02-15-2008, 09:31 AM
Please share! I love weddings, and would love to hear all about it.

disneymom15
02-15-2008, 09:34 AM
I'd like for you to share also. Husband and are will be married 29 years this coming Sept.
A disney wedding would be so exciting.

NJGIRL
02-15-2008, 10:13 AM
I love weddings. Bring it on!!!!

goofysbabe
02-15-2008, 10:49 AM
Please, please share - maybe I can live out my fantasy wedding at Disney thru you. Good luck and share with us!!!

BelleLovesTheBeast
02-15-2008, 01:56 PM
I'd love to hear. My husband and I are wanting to renew our vows there at some point. Thanks for wanting to share.

murphy1
02-15-2008, 03:04 PM
I would, too!! Yes, please let us know about the details! Have you decided on the reception site yet? See, I already want to know!

AbeeNormal
02-15-2008, 03:39 PM
Congratulations to you both, what an exciting journey. I think this would be great for everyone involved we could help out like family without all the annoyance involved.

I would love to follow you thru your wedding planning. I used to be a wedding planner so I might be able to throw in a good tip or two from time to time.

Again congratulations!!!:groom::bride:

thrillme
02-15-2008, 04:02 PM
Congratulations.

Just know that sometimes there are things that can go wrong in the end (ie...I had two groomsmen stuck on a job in another state and couldn't leave...oh well...the remaining groomsmen ended up with a bridesmaid on each arm) but for the most part they are not going to be important 50 years from now. Remember that you are getting married to the man of your dreams in a very magical world and that's going to be the single most important aspect to focus on. Focus on that aspect and you're wedding is likely to be PERFECT.

Bethis26fan
02-15-2008, 04:04 PM
I would love to hear about it as well. Congrats.

Disneyatic
02-15-2008, 05:21 PM
I would love to ready about it and follow your journey as well!

You will be surprised how fast 1 1/2 years fly by during the planning process. That's great that you have that much time to get everything decided and done.
Can't wait to see the posts!

Beast_fanatic
02-15-2008, 05:50 PM
I think it will be a fantastic help to others that want to marry at WDW. :thumbsup:

Bethanymouse
02-15-2008, 11:18 PM
Thanks so much for your interest! I am sure that I will depend on all of you for emotional support throughout this exciting journey! Here is some backround info- feel free to ask questions!

About us:

Bethany- That’s me! I am 26 years I am currently employed as a School Psychologist in a middle school. I really enjoy my job and the kids that I work with. I am also a full time graduate student studying for my doctorate in Psychology. I have about 1-½ years of classes left and then a dissertation. In the middle of all of this we are planning our dream Disney wedding and trying to find a house! I am a Disney maniac and have been over 20 times. I just can’t think of anything that I enjoy more than Disney World! In my spare time (which is limited) I love reading about Disney, reading in general, shopping, and being with friends and family. I have one younger brother who I am very close with, and my parents who are all very excited and involved in the Disney wedding planning!

Anthony- My Disney fiancé! Anthony is 27 years old and just finished his master’s degree in Teaching. We went to school together as undergrad students where he graduated with a Business and Marketing degree. After much thought and discussion we agreed it would be best for him to do what he loves and teach. So back to school he went and here we are! He is looking for a job now, but teaching jobs around here are tough to come by. Anthony’s first loves (besides me of course!) are the NY Giants, super bowl champs, and the NY Yankees. He loves music and movies. Anthony is an only child and was raised by his mother. His father has remarried so we have an extended family as well.

How we met: We met at Ramapo College of NJ in the fall of 2001. We were housed in a hotel off campus because there wasn’t enough room for us on campus. My roommate’s boyfriend from home, who was also attending school there, became best friends with Anthony. At first she tried to set us up. I was in a relationship already so it took some time before we finally found each other! We starting dating that next fall (2002) and have been inseparable ever since!

Throughout the years many changes have taken place in our lives. I went right to graduate school from Ramapo and completed a double master’s degree in Psychology. During this time Anthony worked for Cingular Wireless Corporate Offices. He was making very good money but hated his job and wanted to be a teacher. We decided to wait on engagement and marriage and put him through school. Once Anthony decided to return to school he moved into my parent’s house, in our finished basement, so that he would not have to pay rent. My parents are so wonderful!

The Engagement: We got engaged December 2006 on Christmas morning. It was completely unexpected because we had discussed waiting until he was finished with school. We were in no rush because we knew it would eventually happen. But then, he popped the question with all of my family there on Christmas morning. It was the best moment of my life. We knew immediately we wanted a Disney wedding but we didn’t know when. Now that life has led me to further my education and Anthony his, we have decided on a summer 2009 wedding in the WORLD!!!!:bride:

Thanks for reading. I hope to post some ideas, questions, pictures soon!!!!:cloud9:

Bethanymouse
02-16-2008, 12:04 PM
Here are some pictures of us, so that you have an idea of who we are!

Our pal Woody! (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/?action=view&current=DSC00820.jpg)

We love the Magic Kingdom! (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/?action=view&current=DSC00432.jpg)

PirateLover
02-16-2008, 12:34 PM
Bethany, just out of curiosity where in NJ are you guys from? What kind of teacher is Anthony looking to be? I recently graduated with a degree in secondary education/social studies and I've been looking in the Philly/Southern NJ area for a job and it's definitely a really competitive field. So far I haven't been able to find a permanent position, but I know one will come my way eventually. Still, it can be rough. I am also engaged and trying to save money for a wedding and house while my fiance tries to finish school and find a new career path. I can't wait to hear about the rest of your planning!

DizneyRox
02-16-2008, 03:04 PM
I would suggest getting in touch with FairyTale Weddings and get yourself a wedding coordinator ASAP. You should decide on a date now and try to get on the list. If there are a number of poeple with the same location/time, there is a lottery for who gets it.

I would also send out a Save The Date letter now to those you want to invite. It will give people an opportunity to plan for your wedding. We were able to get about 40 people to our wedding and I really think it was mostly possible due to us giving as much notice as possible. People will plan on it being a vacation and a year and 1/2 notice is nice. Maybe people will put off a trip this year so they can go next.

Get your arrangements done now as well, I know I am unwilling to get my travel arrangements done until I know the people I'm going to see have theres done. I was burned once, won't happen again. In your Save The Date you should give an idea of where you are staying, and when you will be there. Just to give that peace of mind to folks that you WILL be there.

We also invited everyone to our rehersal dinner AND had a thank you dinner as well. Just a nice little touch to thank people and keep them involved.

Just a couple suggestions, I can send you my Save The Date if you want. It'll take a bit to dig up though...

Finally, start saving! A Disney wedding can be pretty expensive!

Bethanymouse
02-16-2008, 07:59 PM
Bethany, just out of curiosity where in NJ are you guys from? What kind of teacher is Anthony looking to be? I recently graduated with a degree in secondary education/social studies and I've been looking in the Philly/Southern NJ area for a job and it's definitely a really competitive field. So far I haven't been able to find a permanent position, but I know one will come my way eventually. Still, it can be rough. I am also engaged and trying to save money for a wedding and house while my fiance tries to finish school and find a new career path. I can't wait to hear about the rest of your planning!
We are in Northern New Jersey, Anthony is certified to teach K-5 and Middle School Social Studies, High school Social Studies and Business/Marketing. It is so hard right now, I am hoping that the spring will open up more jobs for both of you! Best of luck on your wedding planning and new career! Thanks for reading!


I would suggest getting in touch with FairyTale Weddings and get yourself a wedding coordinator ASAP. You should decide on a date now and try to get on the list. If there are a number of poeple with the same location/time, there is a lottery for who gets it.

I would also send out a Save The Date letter now to those you want to invite. It will give people an opportunity to plan for your wedding. We were able to get about 40 people to our wedding and I really think it was mostly possible due to us giving as much notice as possible. People will plan on it being a vacation and a year and 1/2 notice is nice. Maybe people will put off a trip this year so they can go next.

Get your arrangements done now as well, I know I am unwilling to get my travel arrangements done until I know the people I'm going to see have theres done. I was burned once, won't happen again. In your Save The Date you should give an idea of where you are staying, and when you will be there. Just to give that peace of mind to folks that you WILL be there.

We also invited everyone to our rehersal dinner AND had a thank you dinner as well. Just a nice little touch to thank people and keep them involved.

Just a couple suggestions, I can send you my Save The Date if you want. It'll take a bit to dig up though...

Finally, start saving! A Disney wedding can be pretty expensive!
Thanks so much for your suggestions. We did get a wedding coordinator- I will fill you in on that in a bit. Most of our family knows we are planning on a disney wedding so we are hoping that they are saving! I appreciate all of your well wishes and suggestions. They are so helpful!

Let me tell you planning that has occurred so far.:idea:

Last week I got in touch with a disney wedding coordinator. She called me back, we have been assigned Pam Pearce. She was very helpful and extremely nice. We have a preliminary date of July 31, 2009. This summer we are going to go down and do some site visits. I really would like to have our reception at the Grand Floridian Ballroom but I am not sure how everything will pan out. I was disappointed to hear that you cant officially book a reception hall until 8 months before the wedding......

What we do know-
Ceremony: Wedding Pavillion:lovestruc
Guests: Inviting about 125, estimating about 60-80 will attend:confused3
Reception first choice- GF ballroom

We will have a cocktail hour, just not sure of details. We definitely want Cinderella's coach as our transportation. We also have chosen our bridal party and I have 4 BM and 1 MOH. He has a best man and 4 GM. We have two young ring bearers and a flowergirl. I hope to post picture ideas soon of my vision. What I do know is that I want simplicity. I love everyones advice and info. Thanks so much for reading!!

DizneyRox
02-16-2008, 09:08 PM
I'll take this time to remind you that Cinderella's Glass Coach is NOT air conditioned and is drawn by real live horses.

It's hot in July!

We also choose the coach and wouldn't change a thing. For those complaining about the heat in the Summer, try dressing in a full tux and riding in a glass bubble. Then talk to me about hot!

Bethanymouse
02-17-2008, 12:21 AM
I'll take this time to remind you that Cinderella's Glass Coach is NOT air conditioned and is drawn by real live horses.

It's hot in July!

We also choose the coach and wouldn't change a thing. For those complaining about the heat in the Summer, try dressing in a full tux and riding in a glass bubble. Then talk to me about hot!
This is very true but how can we not have it? It is so magical and beautiful! Do you have any pictures that you would be willing to share? I bet it was beautiful for you. Thanks!

DizneyRox
02-17-2008, 01:36 AM
This is very true but how can we not have it? It is so magical and beautiful! Do you have any pictures that you would be willing to share? I bet it was beautiful for you. Thanks!
Online I do not, sorry, I try to keep myself offline for the most part...

As far as the coach, since you are planning a summer wedding, remember, it rains EVERY DAY between about 1pm and 3pm or so. I would opt for an early wedding so you're inside when the rain comes. I would push the date to stay away from those times. You really don't want to take pics or be riding in that coach in bad weather, IF they even use it in bad weather.

And with regards to the ballroom. Twinkle lights and chair covers! Trust me!

Bethanymouse
02-20-2008, 06:57 PM
Online I do not, sorry, I try to keep myself offline for the most part...

As far as the coach, since you are planning a summer wedding, remember, it rains EVERY DAY between about 1pm and 3pm or so. I would opt for an early wedding so you're inside when the rain comes. I would push the date to stay away from those times. You really don't want to take pics or be riding in that coach in bad weather, IF they even use it in bad weather.

And with regards to the ballroom. Twinkle lights and chair covers! Trust me!
Thanks for your help. We are still thinking about our time slots for the ceremony. The problem is that I wanted us to finish around 9:30 so that everyone could go out on the beach of the GF and watch wishes. I thought that would be a nice way for everyone to end their night. Now I am rethinking the 2:30 time slot due to a possible storm. I guess we could go with a 5:00 wedding and a 6:30 pm cocktail hour but I almost feel that is too late for guests to eat dinner because they probably wont get served dinner until after 8. What does everyone think?

To update you on planning, we believe that we have selected a photographer. His name is Randy Chapman. He is not connected to Disney but has done many disney weddings. He did recommend a videographer and we sent away for his info. The videographer looked great, his dvd was awesome and his website was beautiful. However, on other sites I have heard not such good things so right now that is up in the air. We are definately going to pay for the MK photo session the morning after our wedding. But that has to be done by a disney photographer. Anyway, that is the update. Thanks for reading! Suggestions are welcome!!!:thumbsup:

crazypoohbear
02-20-2008, 09:28 PM
Congratulations on the upcoming wedding
I'm sure that everything will be fine the day of your wedding.
You should check out the videographer, photographer and every other "outsider" you are thinking about with the Florida Better business bureau. Also, check with the Orlando chamber of commerce and the local newspapers for things. Ask for and call any references.
If you haven't found a dress yet, I would look for sleeveless in that weather.

princessimagineer
02-20-2008, 09:55 PM
Congradulations! This is sooo exciting!

Im only 17 but i already decided that i want a disney wedding. so im jealous of you.

Im from north jersey too and i know a lot of kids that go/will be going to Ramapo! its a small world after all....

DizneyRox
02-21-2008, 10:52 AM
We used Disney Photography and feel it was well work the expense. There is really no chance of them no showing up, and they took close to 600 shots at our wedding. It was tough to whittle it down to something we could fit in an album. They caught some great moments most people never even noticed.

We opted to go outside for videography and went with a place called Video Magic I think. They were wonderful, couldn't have asked for a better video. We didn't like what we saw from Disney videography.

BTW - The beach is quite far from the ballrooms. You may want to direct people over to the marina to watch wishes.

Regarding the 5pm slot. I'd still be a little concerned over the rain. You dont want to arrive in the rain, and'or take pre wedding pictures in the rain. I'm sure they will keep you out of the weather, but remember, folks will also be traveling probably from other resorts well before the wedding. It should be good by that time, but personally I'd get inside before the rain comes. After the wedidng, nobody really cares what they look like.

If I recall correctly, lunch was a bit cheaper as well for the meals, and your bar bill will be cheaper as well. Normal people will drink less during the early afternoon than later at night. If that's a concern...

It's a tough call, we were very happy with our time slot, it wasn't super hot yet, and everyone was inside during the worst time of the day.

princessjojo
02-21-2008, 11:36 AM
You have a wonderful story about the two of you! I just loved reading it and it's so warming to read, especially giving me hope that happiness exist in the "younger" world. I've been married for almost 14 years now, and it's worth all of the hard, really hard work. You two sound like very special people made for each other.

I can't wait to hear all of your wedding plans. My DH kids me all the time that if we were getting married today for the first time, would I want to get married at WDW? I love the thought of it. Especially having the castle in the background of your pictures.

I can't stand it... I get giddy just thinking about weddings, and this makes me especially giddy. I think I need my sons Ritalin (just kidding). But at least we can live vicariously through you.

BTW, I have a friend there in NJ (Bordentown) whose going back to be certified to teach there. She was a HS chem. teacher here in NC.

Best of luck to you two and have fun planning. I can't wait to read more.

LauraleeH
02-21-2008, 01:37 PM
Aww, congratulations! I've always dreamed of a Disney Wedding. I'm only 20 and still single, but I want to start saving up for it. It's the only way I will be able to afford one. Anyways, let me know if you need any help or whatever, planning can be stressful but it should also be fun!

MsMin
02-21-2008, 03:49 PM
This is so exciting :minnie: My dd25 is thinking about a WDW wedding. In fact her sister and I were discussing it yesterday (she thinks she's crazy) She doesn't have a ring yet but has been dating her bf for 4 years and they are talking about their future together. My dd seems to think that the bride would have to pay for the guest's lodging. How do you plan lodging for the wedding party and guests? We have a very small family. My parents were both only children so I have no aunts or uncles so our family consists of 19 people, my brother and sister and their kids and my parents so she wouldn't necessarily have a big wedding since her bf's family is from RI and NY they don't have a lot of close family either.
Just curious on how you feel about having a wedding so far from home?

Bethanymouse
02-21-2008, 07:55 PM
Congratulations on the upcoming wedding
I'm sure that everything will be fine the day of your wedding.
You should check out the videographer, photographer and every other "outsider" you are thinking about with the Florida Better business bureau. Also, check with the Orlando chamber of commerce and the local newspapers for things. Ask for and call any references.
If you haven't found a dress yet, I would look for sleeveless in that weather.

Thanks for the advice about the chamber and BBB. I am definately going to check that out! Thanks!


Congradulations! This is sooo exciting!

Im only 17 but i already decided that i want a disney wedding. so im jealous of you.

Im from north jersey too and i know a lot of kids that go/will be going to Ramapo! its a small world after all....
Hello there fellow Jerseyean! I loved Ramapo and would recommend it to anyone! Thanks for reading!


We used Disney Photography and feel it was well work the expense. There is really no chance of them no showing up, and they took close to 600 shots at our wedding. It was tough to whittle it down to something we could fit in an album. They caught some great moments most people never even noticed.

We opted to go outside for videography and went with a place called Video Magic I think. They were wonderful, couldn't have asked for a better video. We didn't like what we saw from Disney videography.

BTW - The beach is quite far from the ballrooms. You may want to direct people over to the marina to watch wishes.

Regarding the 5pm slot. I'd still be a little concerned over the rain. You dont want to arrive in the rain, and'or take pre wedding pictures in the rain. I'm sure they will keep you out of the weather, but remember, folks will also be traveling probably from other resorts well before the wedding. It should be good by that time, but personally I'd get inside before the rain comes. After the wedidng, nobody really cares what they look like.

If I recall correctly, lunch was a bit cheaper as well for the meals, and your bar bill will be cheaper as well. Normal people will drink less during the early afternoon than later at night. If that's a concern...

It's a tough call, we were very happy with our time slot, it wasn't super hot yet, and everyone was inside during the worst time of the day.
Thanks again for all of your help! The marina would be a perfect location, time permitting, for wishes. I have heard of video magic and heard some great things about them. I will look into that. That is one of the most stressful things I think. Thanks for your advice and keep it coming!

You have a wonderful story about the two of you! I just loved reading it and it's so warming to read, especially giving me hope that happiness exist in the "younger" world. I've been married for almost 14 years now, and it's worth all of the hard, really hard work. You two sound like very special people made for each other.

I can't wait to hear all of your wedding plans. My DH kids me all the time that if we were getting married today for the first time, would I want to get married at WDW? I love the thought of it. Especially having the castle in the background of your pictures.

I can't stand it... I get giddy just thinking about weddings, and this makes me especially giddy. I think I need my sons Ritalin (just kidding). But at least we can live vicariously through you.

BTW, I have a friend there in NJ (Bordentown) whose going back to be certified to teach there. She was a HS chem. teacher here in NC.

Best of luck to you two and have fun planning. I can't wait to read more.
Thanks so much for your well wishes. I know what you mean about my generation. I do feel like many of my friends are settling for the man who buys the ring, not the one who is their best friend. Anthony and I are so happy together. I am grateful for our relationship and cant wait to spend the rest of my life with him. I am very excited to have the castle in our backround. Can it get any more magical than that? You can get as giddy as you want, its fine with me...I get giddy thinking about it all too- well that and nervous! Thanks for reading!


Aww, congratulations! I've always dreamed of a Disney Wedding. I'm only 20 and still single, but I want to start saving up for it. It's the only way I will be able to afford one. Anyways, let me know if you need any help or whatever, planning can be stressful but it should also be fun!
Planning can be stressful! We arent so much at that point yet, but I feel like I may stress easily so I will be needing some of that promised help! While disney weddings are expensive we are finding they are no more expensive than it would cost us to have a wedding here in NJ. The most expensive cost is for travel. And that we are leaving up to our guests! Thanks so much for reading!

This is so exciting :minnie: My dd25 is thinking about a WDW wedding. In fact her sister and I were discussing it yesterday (she thinks she's crazy) She doesn't have a ring yet but has been dating her bf for 4 years and they are talking about their future together. My dd seems to think that the bride would have to pay for the guest's lodging. How do you plan lodging for the wedding party and guests? We have a very small family. My parents were both only children so I have no aunts or uncles so our family consists of 19 people, my brother and sister and their kids and my parents so she wouldn't necessarily have a big wedding since her bf's family is from RI and NY they don't have a lot of close family either.
Just curious on how you feel about having a wedding so far from home?
Hi Ms Min! We are very excited and I always knew that I wanted a disney wedding, long before I even met DF. It is the most magical place on earth right? As for the guest question. We are inviting the same amount of people we would here. About 130-140. They say to expect only about 60% to come. My family are disney fans so we expect our numbers to be about 60-80 people. Not counting specifically on an exact number for now. My feeling is, who comes comes. Who cant come doesnt come. I will be grateful to all who can attend and those that cant I will understand. We are not paying for our guests lodging. They are responsible for that and their transportation to Florida. Disney does offer package deals and specials to wedding guests so that they can take advantage of all of the fun. Thanks so much for reading!

Hull-onian
02-21-2008, 08:04 PM
Congratulations on your engagement. I think that you and Anthony are a lovely couple. I can picture it now. I love weddings too. I don't know how you are going to keep us informed while working, wedding planning, bridal gown shopping :cloud9:, and inviting all your guests. Make sure you do send out the save the date invites. It really does work. Again, we all wish you both the best. I am sure that your parents will be the biggest help of all. Can't wait to hear about your bridal shower, getting your gown, choosing wedding rings, oh yes, the just right wedding cake. Again Congrats!!!

Bethanymouse
02-21-2008, 11:17 PM
Congratulations on your engagement. I think that you and Anthony are a lovely couple. I can picture it now. I love weddings too. I don't know how you are going to keep us informed while working, wedding planning, bridal gown shopping :cloud9:, and inviting all your guests. Make sure you do send out the save the date invites. It really does work. Again, we all wish you both the best. I am sure that your parents will be the biggest help of all. Can't wait to hear about your bridal shower, getting your gown, choosing wedding rings, oh yes, the just right wedding cake. Again Congrats!!!

Thanks so much! We are definitely going to send out our save the dates in October when we get the finalized info from disney. They do not finalize a contract until 8 months out at which time they send out the save the dates. We are actually thinking of including a dvd in the save the date with pictures of us in the "world" and pics of the hotels offered. What do you think?

princessjojo
02-22-2008, 09:57 AM
We are actually thinking of including a dvd in the save the date with pictures of us in the "world" and pics of the hotels offered. What do you think?
I think it's a great idea. You could always think about one of the opening photos being a picture of your ring or of Anthony on bended knee holding your hand while you are holding a Minnie doll in your arms. You could also include a Minnie/Mickey cake topper in your photos. I am so jealous. You're going to have so much fun planning...I can't wait to hear more.

DizneyRox
02-22-2008, 11:28 AM
Thanks so much! We are definitely going to send out our save the dates in October when we get the finalized info from disney. They do not finalize a contract until 8 months out at which time they send out the save the dates. We are actually thinking of including a dvd in the save the date with pictures of us in the "world" and pics of the hotels offered. What do you think?
That's great, but really, send something now so that people can plan on being in Florida around your wedding. Even though you don't have an exact date/time, you do have an idea that it will be a destination wedding. This will allow people more than a year and 1/2 to plan/save as opposed to only 8 months.

I'll really try to dig up our initial save the date. Disney's is more of a "bill" to reserve hotels, tickets, etc, not a nice hey we're getting married note if I recall correctly.

If you wanted to do a DVD as a Save the Date that would be pretty cool. There are several slide show programs that allow you to easily make what you are trying to do.

disneycouple2004
02-22-2008, 12:01 PM
Congrats on your wedding...we also done the Disney wedding...if we can help let me know !!

Bethanymouse
02-22-2008, 02:01 PM
I think it's a great idea. You could always think about one of the opening photos being a picture of your ring or of Anthony on bended knee holding your hand while you are holding a Minnie doll in your arms. You could also include a Minnie/Mickey cake topper in your photos. I am so jealous. You're going to have so much fun planning...I can't wait to hear more.
That is a really cute idea! I think we are definitely going to use disney pics included in it, but do you think we should use only ones of us together or even baby ones?


That's great, but really, send something now so that people can plan on being in Florida around your wedding. Even though you don't have an exact date/time, you do have an idea that it will be a destination wedding. This will allow people more than a year and 1/2 to plan/save as opposed to only 8 months.

I'll really try to dig up our initial save the date. Disney's is more of a "bill" to reserve hotels, tickets, etc, not a nice hey we're getting married note if I recall correctly.

If you wanted to do a DVD as a Save the Date that would be pretty cool. There are several slide show programs that allow you to easily make what you are trying to do.
Thanks! We are going to try to do the dvd. I have a photo program on my computer that allows it and I think it will be a lot of fun to share with our family. All of our family is aware we are having a destination disney wedding because we let them know at our engagement party. Most are already saving. That would be great if you could give me more info on your save the dates though. Very helpful. Thanks for all your help.


Congrats on your wedding...we also done the Disney wedding...if we can help let me know !!

Thanks so much! Did you just love your wedding? What are some things that you did that you would do again?

I am going to post a link to the picture of our cake topper. Mods feel free to remove it if its against forum rules. Anthony bought this for me about 3 years ago, before we were engaged and thought it would be a great cake topper. I know it might be too heavy but regardless it will be on our cake table.

Cake Topper (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=caketopper.jpg)

AuntDJ
02-22-2008, 02:16 PM
Well, I have only assisted in wedding planning, never done one myself...however,

I think that the video save the date idea is SOOO cute! Especially if you have family that has not been to Disney, you can use this to show them how great it is! And as it gets closer they can re-watch it as their planning video and just get exctied about it! Also, I think it would be cute to use pics of you guys together as well as pics when you were younger.

I love the "cake topper" even if it is too heavy, it will be cute sitting next to your cake!

Have fun with the planning!

Bethanymouse
02-22-2008, 02:24 PM
Well, I have only assisted in wedding planning, never done one myself...however,

I think that the video save the date idea is SOOO cute! Especially if you have family that has not been to Disney, you can use this to show them how great it is! And as it gets closer they can re-watch it as their planning video and just get exctied about it! Also, I think it would be cute to use pics of you guys together as well as pics when you were younger.

I love the "cake topper" even if it is too heavy, it will be cute sitting next to your cake!

Have fun with the planning!
Thanks so much! It is going to be hard selecting favorite pics but I think it will be fun, and I think that our guests will enjoy it! Isnt that cake topper cute? I love it. Thanks so much for reading!

Bethanymouse
02-22-2008, 02:38 PM
Thanks so much for reading along! I thought I would introduce you to our wedding party so you have an idea of what it consists of.:mickey:

Matron of Honor- Corinne, 26, my best friend since the third grade. I was her MOH 2 years ago and she was a beautiful bride! She is such a great friend and I cant think of anyone better to have next to me on that day!

Bridesmaids:
Christine- 25, One of my best friends and college roomie. She always knows how to make me laugh and have fun.

Amy- 26, Another one of my best friends. The first college friend that I made. Encouraged me to hang out with Anthony and we credit her for getting us together! I was a bridesmaid in Amy's wedding in October. She was also a beautiful bride and had a wonderful wedding!

Maggie- 16, Cousin who lives in Minnesota. Cant wait to see her and share our day with her!

Mandy- 19, Cousin from Jersey. I grew up with Mandy and we have spent many holidays and vacations together. We are very close.

Flowergirl- Sarah, will be 5 at our wedding, 4 right now. Sarah is full of fun. She loves the disney princesses and cant wait to be in a "Wedding". She is absolutely adorable

Now onto the men:

Best Man- Mike, 27, Anthony's best friend since primary school. Mike is a great guy and a good friend to Anthony. He got married a year ago and Anthony stood beside him as his groomsman.

Groomsmen:
Joey- 19, my brother. Anthony and Joey are very close. They hang out all the time. I am so grateful that they get along so well.

Anthony- 27, This is Anthony's friend from college. He is a genuine sweet guy who I really enjoy being around. A very good friend.

Carmine (aka Nooch)- 23, Anthony's cousin. Nooch idolized Anthony as a kid and they did everything together. He is a funny and interesting guy, always good for a laugh!

Justin- 28, Justin is Anthony's friend from high school. He currently lives in London with his wife and new baby. Justin is a graphic designer for Hollywood movies. We see him about 2 times a year but they are always on the phone catching up. Good guy and great friend.

Ring Bearers-
We have two! They are brothers. Anthony is very close to his cousin ToniAnn and she has two young boys. Anthony lived with them for awhile and developed a close relationship with the boys. They are so much fun and we absolutely LOVE them. We couldnt pick one so they are both in it!

Keith Brian- currently 3, going to be 5 at our wedding. Ball of energy. Blonde hair, blue eyes need I say more? He loves disney movies, especially Cars and Nemo!

Kyle Anthony- currently 2, going to be 3 for our wedding. Kyle is quiet and sweet. He is a cuddler, but dont let him fool you, he doesnt like to get pushed around by Keith Brian! He is brown hair and brown eyes, like his mother! He is a handsome guy!

That is all of them! I will try to post some pics of flower girl dress ideas sometime today. Thanks for reading!

bleukarma
02-22-2008, 03:43 PM
It sounds like you have a beutiful wedding in the works! How exciting! It's been so interesting to read your story!!

princessjojo
02-22-2008, 08:56 PM
I am just loving this reading all of your post. You are so lucky to have so many here on intercot to share with.

BTW, I love what you've chosen for your caketopper. It is just so cute! It's unconventional which in my opinion is what makes it great and unique to you. I didn't see any I liked when we were married, so since we were married in the evening and it was slightly formal, I had my bridesmaids carry long stem red roses in their arms. They wore long black dresses with a touch of white and long black gloves. To tie it together, I had fresh red baby roses used as the cake topper on my cake. It was beautiful with the deep red on the top of the very white cake.

My mom gave me 2 snowbabies this year in my christmas stocking (she gives me new ones each year). But the first was with Minnie is singing christmas carols with a little girl and she's wearing Minnie ears, and in the other, Mickey is putting on ice skates with a little boy. Sorry for the digression...

Keep posting. I can't wait to see what you're dresses look like. I know they have to be beautiful.

Bethanymouse
02-22-2008, 10:41 PM
It sounds like you have a beutiful wedding in the works! How exciting! It's been so interesting to read your story!!
Thanks so much for reading!


I am just loving this reading all of your post. You are so lucky to have so many here on intercot to share with.

BTW, I love what you've chosen for your caketopper. It is just so cute! It's unconventional which in my opinion is what makes it great and unique to you. I didn't see any I liked when we were married, so since we were married in the evening and it was slightly formal, I had my bridesmaids carry long stem red roses in their arms. They wore long black dresses with a touch of white and long black gloves. To tie it together, I had fresh red baby roses used as the cake topper on my cake. It was beautiful with the deep red on the top of the very white cake.

My mom gave me 2 snowbabies this year in my christmas stocking (she gives me new ones each year). But the first was with Minnie is singing christmas carols with a little girl and she's wearing Minnie ears, and in the other, Mickey is putting on ice skates with a little boy. Sorry for the digression...

Keep posting. I can't wait to see what you're dresses look like. I know they have to be beautiful.

Your wedding cake sounds beautiful! I also love the idea of your girls flowers! Thanks so much for sharing that. I got a snowbaby with minnie a few years ago. It is definitely adorable. They are cute because they are all white and then the characters are in color! Thanks so much for reading. I am going to post some links to two of the ring bearer pillows I am considering later this evening. Let me know what you guys think! :thumbsup:

Bethanymouse
02-22-2008, 10:49 PM
Alright we have two ring bearers, one will be 3 years old, one will be 5 years old. I am too OCD for them not to have the same. Do you think that they both will need to carry one, or can I have only one pillow? Here are the two we are considering:

This one is very disney.
Ring Bearer Pillow 1 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=ringbearerpillow2.jpg)

This one is more antique
Ring Bearer Pillow 2 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=ringbearerpillow.jpg)

Which one do you like best?

Beast_fanatic
02-22-2008, 11:22 PM
I personally like the first pillow best. The second one makes me think of a baby boy rather than a wedding for some reason.

DizneyRox
02-23-2008, 10:52 AM
Here is the original Save the Date we sent out.


Dear family and friends,

On the DAY of MONTH YEAR, we will be getting married at the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. Although it is still about a year away, we are taking this opportunity to explain Disney's wedding process to aid in your vacation planning. Formal invitations will be sent to you six to eight weeks prior ro the wedding.

In MONTH, you will be receiving a "Save the Date" letter from Disney. At that time, hotel reservations can be made for one of three selected Disney resorts and park passes will be available for purchase, both of which will be offered at special discounted rates.

If you are traveling by air, airline reservations need to be made seperately and should be made early to obtain the best possible fare. [Favorite Airline] offers several direct flights daily from [originating airport] to Orlando International Airport. [Favorite Airline] is currently booking flights for that timeframe.

In addition to the Wedding Celebration, we have also planned a couple of events we hope you will be able to attend. More information will be forthcoming on those events as the date approaches, however we are planning on a Welcoming Party at the Grand Floridian on MONTH, DAY and a dinner show at the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Review on MONTH, DAY.

We understand the desire to bring children to Walt Disney World, however kindly request that no children be in attendence at the ceremony or reception. We will be making arrangements with Disney for a special Children's Party on MONTH, DAY. They are of course welcome at all other events throughout the week.

Enclosed is a tip sheet with valuable information we have compiled during our trips to Walt Disney World. It is our hope these will aid you in your planning as well.

Thank you and we hope you will be able to join us.

SIGNATURES

Our Tip Sheet looked something like this:


Walt Disney World Vacation Tips

If you will be staying on Walt Disney World property, car rental is not required. Disney provides transportation throughout their entire property to all guests. Will be providing direct transportation to and from the wedding, from the three selected Disney Resorts.
[Favorite Towncar Service] offers transportation from the airport to your resort and back. Enclosed is a coupon for $x.xx off a round trip. If you are not renting a car, this is the way to go!
Park Admission will not be required for any of the activites we have planned throughout the week. Tickets should be purchased based on your needs. We recommend allowing one day at Magic Kingdom, Disney MGM Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom. If possible, allow for two days at Epcot as the park is very large.
For more Walt Disney World information you can visit these sites on the World Wide Web:
WDW Official Site: www.disneyworld.com
Intercot: www.intercot.com
[Others listed as necessary]
The following are contact numbers for your convenience:

Favorite Airline: xxx-xxx-xxxx
Favorite Towncar: xxx-xxx-xxxx
WDW Dining: 407-WDW-DINE

You may want to include info on Magical Express, etc. It's your call.

Bethanymouse
02-23-2008, 12:24 PM
I personally like the first pillow best. The second one makes me think of a baby boy rather than a wedding for some reason.

Ha Ha Ha! My DF likes the first one best too. He says the other one looks a bit old lady. I am really into the vintage look so I liked it. Thanks for letting me know and I see where you are coming from. Hopefully we can get some more input as well! Thanks for reading!


Disney Rox- you rock! Thanks so much for that. The problem right now is that we dont have our date set in stone. Disney wont let you have a contract until 8 months prior to the wedding. Sending out information is a great idea, but I dont have a date or a time. I dont even have a set month because right now we are tentitively July 31, 2009. It could change to August depending on availability. Help! Would it be ok to send out but not put the date? Do you think we need to send it out yet? I am planning to do some newsletters once we have more information to send to everyone on our list. What does everyone think?:(

DizneyRox
02-23-2008, 05:52 PM
Well, I would explain that in the message. But giving people a formal note about it being a destination wedding. It sure would help with a date/time, but it doesn't hurt to send something out. Like I said, I really just wanted people to know that there was the probability of a destination in the summer of XX year. Some people take a vacation every other year, and if this year in the on year, they may want to wait a year to make your wedding.

They really don't do anything until 8 months out? It was a year a while back, and we had the date before then, just not a confirmed time. I understand they wait until a certain date and then see what people want. Wish it was first come first served, but it's not. We didn't end up with any conflicts. I'd talk to them and see what the policy is now, just to confirm. I would be very surprised if they couldn't confirm that a date at the very least. You may need to be flexible with the location or time, but a date should be easy enough for them to say yes.

Soul_Power
02-23-2008, 06:51 PM
Your story is so sweet and so exciting!

I look forward to reading the rest of your posts!

mickey&missy
02-23-2008, 09:19 PM
Yeah Bethany!! I love your story, you guys are sooooo cute! Post away, please!! I can live through you! I couldn't even get DH to agree to a WDW honeymoon. Of course, that was before my addiction!

Just curious where in Northern NJ you are. I grew up in Allendale, not far from Ramapo.

Bethanymouse
02-23-2008, 09:19 PM
Well, I would explain that in the message. But giving people a formal note about it being a destination wedding. It sure would help with a date/time, but it doesn't hurt to send something out. Like I said, I really just wanted people to know that there was the probability of a destination in the summer of XX year. Some people take a vacation every other year, and if this year in the on year, they may want to wait a year to make your wedding.

They really don't do anything until 8 months out? It was a year a while back, and we had the date before then, just not a confirmed time. I understand they wait until a certain date and then see what people want. Wish it was first come first served, but it's not. We didn't end up with any conflicts. I'd talk to them and see what the policy is now, just to confirm. I would be very surprised if they couldn't confirm that a date at the very least. You may need to be flexible with the location or time, but a date should be easy enough for them to say yes.
Right now we have a preliminary date. We are "penciled in". All this means is that if someone else wants our time and location then they let us know. At 12 months out we can confirm a date and ceremony location with time for ceremony. We cant confirm reception time or place until 8 months out when the contract is drawn up. It is really frustrating. I asked if we could do it and put out a down payment if we did it early and they told us no. It does concern me because we want the GF. I know it is a popular location and I want to make sure that the ceremony time and date match up with the location. So frustrating! Thanks for your advice! Apparently they keep changing things!:(


Your story is so sweet and so exciting!

I look forward to reading the rest of your posts!

Thanks so much for reading! I really have enjoyed sharing everything with my intercot friends!

DizneyRox
02-24-2008, 09:23 AM
Well, if it eases your mind then, there are about 8-10 ballrooms at the grand I think. I'm not sure how many you need for your party size, but I really wouldn't sweat not getting the grand. I don't believe that would be a big time for any conventions, etc so you are probably safe.

Bethanymouse
02-24-2008, 04:29 PM
Well, if it eases your mind then, there are about 8-10 ballrooms at the grand I think. I'm not sure how many you need for your party size, but I really wouldn't sweat not getting the grand. I don't believe that would be a big time for any conventions, etc so you are probably safe.

Thanks. Our wedding coordinator mentioned that it is a popular location so she suggested we scout out other areas just in case. We are keeping our fingers crossed!

Hull-onian
02-24-2008, 04:49 PM
Wow Bethany!! Your plans so far sound great. I like your idea of a photo CD very nice. You have everything under control.:whew:

crazypoohbear
02-24-2008, 09:04 PM
Alright we have two ring bearers, one will be 3 years old, one will be 5 years old. I am too OCD for them not to have the same. Do you think that they both will need to carry one, or can I have only one pillow? Here are the two we are considering:

This one is very disney.
Ring Bearer Pillow 1 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=ringbearerpillow2.jpg)

This one is more antique
Ring Bearer Pillow 2 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=ringbearerpillow.jpg)

Which one do you like best?

I personally like the first one best as well.

Also, It is "wedding custom" that the ring bearer keeps the pillow as a momento... At least that was what I had read and heard way back when I got married.
You could always use the fancy one for the rings and give the younger ring bearer a more plain pillow to carry and keep.
Enjoy your planning.

Bethanymouse
02-25-2008, 09:58 PM
Wow Bethany!! Your plans so far sound great. I like your idea of a photo CD very nice. You have everything under control.:whew:
I really dont have anything under control!:( But thanks for your insight!

I personally like the first one best as well.

Also, It is "wedding custom" that the ring bearer keeps the pillow as a momento... At least that was what I had read and heard way back when I got married.
You could always use the fancy one for the rings and give the younger ring bearer a more plain pillow to carry and keep.
Enjoy your planning.
I did not know that it was customary for him to keep the pillow. Do you think that I need to have two? Can I bypass it altogether? What do you think?

Bethanymouse
02-25-2008, 10:05 PM
Hello all, For those of you who think I have it all under control, I think I just have you under a spell!;) I am really trying to stay afloat with this entire thing! Here is the newest update. Disney wont allow you to do a planning session (chose photographer, videographer, flowers, linens, location of reception, officiant, food, tastings, etc) until 8 months prior to the wedding. Their reasoning is because that is when you sign your contract. I would be willing to sign it right now, but they wont let us. We even offered a deposit. So needless to say, we want to be there for all this and not just have phone planning sessions so we need to travel down to disney somewhere between October 31, 2008 and Springtime 2009. As early as possible is best to get everything set up. Anyway, I work as a school psychologist and Anthony is a teacher so getting off from nonschool holidays is near impossible. That leaves us with teacher's convention November 6-9? or winter break between Christmas and New Years. I just dont know if they will do a planning session between christmas and new years. So here is where I need your help- we looked up airfare and lodging for the week after christmas and the prices are astronomical:jaw::eek:. I guess I never realized this. We wanted to get this going because I know that as it gets closer the airfare will be really high. The POLY quoted us at $630 a night. and the pop was 140! Are these prices normal for that time of year, are there any ways to save money during that time....help!!!:cry: I am starting to stress!

DizneyRox
02-26-2008, 08:43 AM
Yes, those appear to be normal rack rate prices, offered when there is no existing discount.

I will tell you, we planned the whole thing over e-mail and phone without a hitch. They really are great at planning, so a distance isn't an issue.

We did stop down for a bit to do a meet and greet, but it was a weekend trip just to say hi, we didn't do much else. We met the officiant that weekend (Rev. Tim Herring) and our wedding coordinator, etc.

Yes, Disney doesn't want to waste and time/money of poeple who aren't under contrac tto spend even more. It's a pain, but that's how Disney works. I really wouldn't sweat it, they are great, and they do an exceptional job during the planning phase.

SteveL
02-26-2008, 12:58 PM
Keep in mind that Swan and Dolphin don't have "premium" rates during Christmas week and there is a teacher's discount avaiable.
If available, you should get it for around $160/night.

bleukarma
02-26-2008, 01:44 PM
I can feel your stress! Sorry that Disney isn't being more lax on their 8 month policy. Breathe! Just keep thinking of your beutiful wedding at Walt Disney World and relax. In the end everything will work out, it always does! :mickey:

As far as room rates go, they can get pretty high at certain times of the year. It's too bad you can't get off work at a more economical time. Have you thought of a WDW camping trip?! j/k! :cool:

biodtl
02-26-2008, 06:01 PM
I did not know that it was customary for him to keep the pillow. Do you think that I need to have two? Can I bypass it altogether? What do you think?

I've never heard of this custom before - sometimes customs are regional, though. Regardless, I can't imagine a little boy caring much about the pillow as a keepsake. I'll bet he'd enjoy a Disney memento or some other age-appropriate souvenir better.

If this isn't a custom where you are from, I doubt the ring bearer is expecting it, so I wouldn't bother with the extra expense.

PS. I like them both, but the 1st one is more Disney-like

Kairi_7378
02-26-2008, 06:24 PM
Bethany, I really enjoyed reading your trip reports for your summer trip, and I'm happy that you decided to share your wedding planning with us! You have lots of time, and just think- if you've made it through a psychology program and gotten your masters' a wedding will be a piece of cake in comparison. Best of luck to Anthony as he looks for jobs. When I was planning my wedding my husband was unemployed, and he was so bummed that it was hard for him to be excited about planning. I'm glad that your family is being so supportive of your destination wedding!

I love the cake topper. From your trip reports and pictures, it looks perfect for the two of you. I like both of the ring pillows but I think that a little boy would be more likely to carry the first one because it's a little less girly. (This was a problem with our 4 year old ring bearer.) I've never heard of giving the ring pillow to the ring bearer... most of my relatives kept theirs and display it with the rest of their wedding stuff (toasting flutes, unity candle, etc.)

crazypoohbear
02-26-2008, 08:35 PM
I've never heard of this custom before - sometimes customs are regional, though. Regardless, I can't imagine a little boy caring much about the pillow as a keepsake. I'll bet he'd enjoy a Disney memento or some other age-appropriate souvenir better.

If this isn't a custom where you are from, I doubt the ring bearer is expecting it, so I wouldn't bother with the extra expense.

PS. I like them both, but the 1st one is more Disney-like

When I got married 20+ years ago, this was in the bride magazines.
My nephew was my ring bearer and he still has the pillow!
Maybe it was something that fizzled out over the years but I remember reading this in brides and the etiquette magazines.
We live in the North East, has anyone else ever heard this??

SBETigg
02-26-2008, 09:19 PM
When I got married 20+ years ago, this was in the bride magazines.
My nephew was my ring bearer and he still has the pillow!
Maybe it was something that fizzled out over the years but I remember reading this in brides and the etiquette magazines.
We live in the North East, has anyone else ever heard this??

I live in the Northeast and I've never heard of the ring bearer keeping the pillow.

I looked it up on an etiquette website and it said that the wedding couple traditionally keeps the pillow as it means more to them. In some cases, the couple offers the pillow to the ringbearer as a keepsake, but this is not necessary and not the norm as the ringbearer usually has little interest in keeping a frilly pillow and it has more emotional significance to the bride and groom, according to the site.

Bethanymouse
02-26-2008, 10:55 PM
Yes, those appear to be normal rack rate prices, offered when there is no existing discount.

I will tell you, we planned the whole thing over e-mail and phone without a hitch. They really are great at planning, so a distance isn't an issue.

We did stop down for a bit to do a meet and greet, but it was a weekend trip just to say hi, we didn't do much else. We met the officiant that weekend (Rev. Tim Herring) and our wedding coordinator, etc.

Yes, Disney doesn't want to waste and time/money of poeple who aren't under contrac tto spend even more. It's a pain, but that's how Disney works. I really wouldn't sweat it, they are great, and they do an exceptional job during the planning phase.
Thanks for the vote of confidence! I am hoping that everything weill work out. I know that they are good at what they do so that is what I am banking on! How did you like Tim? Is he still officiating? We are thinking of going with Jack Day, but are open to suggestions. Nothing is set in stone for us at all.


Keep in mind that Swan and Dolphin don't have "premium" rates during Christmas week and there is a teacher's discount avaiable.
If available, you should get it for around $160/night.
Thanks for that. I am a member of NEA and NJEA, both educational associations so that is something to keep in mind indeed. I think we are going to go in the Spring though.


I can feel your stress! Sorry that Disney isn't being more lax on their 8 month policy. Breathe! Just keep thinking of your beutiful wedding at Walt Disney World and relax. In the end everything will work out, it always does! :mickey:

As far as room rates go, they can get pretty high at certain times of the year. It's too bad you can't get off work at a more economical time. Have you thought of a WDW camping trip?! j/k! :cool:
I wish work would give me off! That would make things so much easier. Thanks for your well wishes. Maybe I should just set up a tent on the castle lawn....what do you think? :D

I've never heard of this custom before - sometimes customs are regional, though. Regardless, I can't imagine a little boy caring much about the pillow as a keepsake. I'll bet he'd enjoy a Disney memento or some other age-appropriate souvenir better.

If this isn't a custom where you are from, I doubt the ring bearer is expecting it, so I wouldn't bother with the extra expense.

PS. I like them both, but the 1st one is more Disney-like
Thanks, I am still not sure if I am going to go with a pillow at all. What are people's thoughts on this- do you think it is a good thing or not that important? Money isnt a problem at all with that but I was just wondering if I would even care about it after the wedding.

I am definitely going to do something special for the kids in our wedding party. Some sort of special bag for when they arrive with disney stuff and a nice gift. Thanks for your input!:thumbsup:


Bethany, I really enjoyed reading your trip reports for your summer trip, and I'm happy that you decided to share your wedding planning with us! You have lots of time, and just think- if you've made it through a psychology program and gotten your masters' a wedding will be a piece of cake in comparison. Best of luck to Anthony as he looks for jobs. When I was planning my wedding my husband was unemployed, and he was so bummed that it was hard for him to be excited about planning. I'm glad that your family is being so supportive of your destination wedding!

I love the cake topper. From your trip reports and pictures, it looks perfect for the two of you. I like both of the ring pillows but I think that a little boy would be more likely to carry the first one because it's a little less girly. (This was a problem with our 4 year old ring bearer.) I've never heard of giving the ring pillow to the ring bearer... most of my relatives kept theirs and display it with the rest of their wedding stuff (toasting flutes, unity candle, etc.)
Thank you so much for your kind words and reading! I really do appreciate it. It is such a stressful time in our lives right now that fortunately sometimes intercot is my wedding release! I never thought about having the ring bearer not want to carry it, but that is a definite possibility. Thanks for your advice!
I love the cake topper too. I feel that it really fits us as a couple. We are fun, love disney, and love being together!

When I got married 20+ years ago, this was in the bride magazines.
My nephew was my ring bearer and he still has the pillow!
Maybe it was something that fizzled out over the years but I remember reading this in brides and the etiquette magazines.
We live in the North East, has anyone else ever heard this??
I am from the Northeast but have not heard of it. I am sure it is/was a custom at sometime. There are so many customs with regard to weddings. I am not against that idea at all. Certainly something to think about! Thanks!


I live in the Northeast and I've never heard of the ring bearer keeping the pillow.

I looked it up on an etiquette website and it said that the wedding couple traditionally keeps the pillow as it means more to them. In some cases, the couple offers the pillow to the ringbearer as a keepsake, but this is not necessary and not the norm as the ringbearer usually has little interest in keeping a frilly pillow and it has more emotional significance to the bride and groom, according to the site.
Thanks for the research. Like I said so many customs exist, its hard keeping up with them all so I appreciate all of your advice and insight. It is so helpful!

On another note, I talked to Pam, my wedding coordinator today and she said that the week between chrismas and new years is not a good week for a Planning session because most people take their vacation then. Including the floral dept and the food dept. Since this is the case, I think we are looking more toward Jan, Feb, March. Worst case scenerio I have to take 2/3 personal days and spend some time in the happiest place on earth. I can :marg: to that. I am trying not to stress and thank all of you for reading and your responses. They keep me going and I am so glad to have your support! Hopefully tomorrow or Thursday I can post some more ideas and pictures of what we like. Thanks for reading!:cloud9::mickey::cloud9:

Bethanymouse
02-27-2008, 04:07 PM
Hello all, Just thought I would share some flowergirl dresses that I like so far. We have one flowergirl. She will be 5 years old at the time of our wedding. I have only a few concerns about the dress that I pick for her.
- I dont want her to look like a mini bride (white is ok, I like white, but not too bridal)
- I dont want her to look like one of those child beautify queens.

I have dozens of dresses selected but these are just a few for now. Let me know what you think!


FG dress 1 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=flowergirl8.jpg)

FG Dress 2 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=flowergirl7again.jpg)

FG Dress 3 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=flowergirl6.jpg)

FG Dress 4 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=flowergirl4.jpg)

I will try to post some more of them later! Thanks for reading!

DizneyRox
02-27-2008, 04:48 PM
We liked Rev Tim, I'm not sure if he is officiating anymore. Jack was another option, and honestly was our first choice due to reviews and referrals, but he couldn't accomodate us. Rev Tim sat with us, got a feel for what we wanted, and did an excellent job, no complaints about the ceremony.

One thing I'll mention is try to get a number (cost) from whoever is officiating the ceremony. We received no clear answer and only heard of "recommended" amounts, I'll call it a "donation". Evidentally, whoever gave us the recommended amount was a way low, and prompted an awkward discussion immediately after the wedding. Nobody really had any extra money on them, and it's customary to pay right then and there.

thrillme
02-27-2008, 06:09 PM
As far as the pillow. Keep it simple. Boys that age are only going to be interested in "bopping" each other with it. I really don't think you have to worry about them wanting to keep it.

Having TWO is a good thing because when the music starts...don't be shocked if one "changes his mind" (especially the littlest one). Have you considered doing away with the pillow all togther and have the boys carry something else such as a cross? Or have them walk to each side of the flower girl as she spreads the petals? If you do use the pillow be sure to tie the rings on very securly or use fake ones and give the real ones to the best man and maid of honor. (HA HA...I remember one wedding the best man got "nervous" and his hand swelled up. He almost couldn't get the ring off)

I've been a bridesmaid a number of times and from that experience I've paid a LOT of money for dresses I'll never wear again. You might try to keep this in mind for whatever you choose for your girls to wear including the flower girl. Try to keep the cost managable or else try to find a dress that can be worn again. It might even be cute (depending on her age) to be a little disney princess.

When I got married 16 years ago the "donation" price was $75. Right now I'm looking into a very SIMPLE ceremony for my second wedding and it seems that the going rate is $150 for the donation.

Hull-onian
02-27-2008, 06:26 PM
Hello all, Just thought I would share some flowergirl dresses that I like so far. We have one flowergirl. She will be 5 years old at the time of our wedding. I have only a few concerns about the dress that I pick for her.
- I dont want her to look like a mini bride (white is ok, I like white, but not too bridal)
- I dont want her to look like one of those child beautify queens.

I have dozens of dresses selected but these are just a few for now. Let me know what you think!


FG dress 1 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=flowergirl8.jpg)

FG Dress 2 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=flowergirl7again.jpg)

FG Dress 3 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=flowergirl6.jpg)

FG Dress 4 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=flowergirl4.jpg)

I will try to post some more of them later! Thanks for reading!

Bethany, You should really think about TJMAXX. We have beautiful dresses (Cinderella) manufacturers name) to choose from from 29.99 to 39.99. They started arriving last week. We will get in more over the next five weeks. Then you can go to ACMoore or Michaels and get a beautiful head piece for her. You will be pleased.
I love the follow-up so far.:cloud9:

SBETigg
02-27-2008, 06:45 PM
I love all the flower girl dresses- how do you choose? But I did find the last two, 3 and 4, to be especially appropriate and sweet for a five-year-old girl.

Bethanymouse
02-27-2008, 07:14 PM
We liked Rev Tim, I'm not sure if he is officiating anymore. Jack was another option, and honestly was our first choice due to reviews and referrals, but he couldn't accomodate us. Rev Tim sat with us, got a feel for what we wanted, and did an excellent job, no complaints about the ceremony.

One thing I'll mention is try to get a number (cost) from whoever is officiating the ceremony. We received no clear answer and only heard of "recommended" amounts, I'll call it a "donation". Evidentally, whoever gave us the recommended amount was a way low, and prompted an awkward discussion immediately after the wedding. Nobody really had any extra money on them, and it's customary to pay right then and there.
Thanks for your response. I dont think it is a "donation" anymore. I have heard it is a set fee and it is about 150-250 depending on who you use. We have heard great things about Jack Day so we are going to try to get him! Thanks!

As far as the pillow. Keep it simple. Boys that age are only going to be interested in "bopping" each other with it. I really don't think you have to worry about them wanting to keep it.

Having TWO is a good thing because when the music starts...don't be shocked if one "changes his mind" (especially the littlest one). Have you considered doing away with the pillow all togther and have the boys carry something else such as a cross? Or have them walk to each side of the flower girl as she spreads the petals? If you do use the pillow be sure to tie the rings on very securly or use fake ones and give the real ones to the best man and maid of honor. (HA HA...I remember one wedding the best man got "nervous" and his hand swelled up. He almost couldn't get the ring off)

I've been a bridesmaid a number of times and from that experience I've paid a LOT of money for dresses I'll never wear again. You might try to keep this in mind for whatever you choose for your girls to wear including the flower girl. Try to keep the cost managable or else try to find a dress that can be worn again. It might even be cute (depending on her age) to be a little disney princess.

When I got married 16 years ago the "donation" price was $75. Right now I'm looking into a very SIMPLE ceremony for my second wedding and it seems that the going rate is $150 for the donation.
I agree with the bopping and that is kind of what I am afraid of. Still not sure about doing the pillow. I am definitely not set on it. I will definitely not have them carry the rings, that will be for the best man. I agree with the dresses. I have been in a number of weddings myself and have never worn the gown again. In fact they just end up taking up room in a closet. I am looking into simple yet elegant for the girls, nothing too bridesmaidy.


Bethany, You should really think about TJMAXX. We have beautiful dresses (Cinderella) manufacturers name) to choose from from 29.99 to 39.99. They started arriving last week. We will get in more over the next five weeks. Then you can go to ACMoore or Michaels and get a beautiful head piece for her. You will be pleased.
I love the follow-up so far.:cloud9:
Thats funny that you say that because I LOVE LOVE LOVE TJMaxx. I almost would venture out to say I have an addiction to TJMaxx. I have looked there and they have beautiful things. Definitely something to keep in mind. The flowergirls parents are really into the wedding and told me money is not an object for them in anyway (I wish I could say the same :blush:) but I will seriously keep that in mind. Thanks for your advice. I am writing that one down!


I love all the flower girl dresses- how do you choose? But I did find the last two, 3 and 4, to be especially appropriate and sweet for a five-year-old girl.

Thanks so much for your input. I really appreciate hearing it. I have a few more saved on photobucket so I will try to upload them later on tonight or this week.

Thanks for reading everyone!

Beast_fanatic
02-27-2008, 09:50 PM
My 5 year old niece would pick dress number 2 because pink is her color.

biodtl
02-27-2008, 10:02 PM
My pillow means a lot to me still, but it was specially made by my aunt.

As for the FG dresses, Oh my Gosh I like them all! Do you have yours and the bridesmaids picked out yet? Because they could play a part in which FG dress fits the look best.

Bethanymouse
02-27-2008, 11:16 PM
My 5 year old niece would pick dress number 2 because pink is her color.
I love the pink ones too! We are doing blue as the BM colors do you think it would be ok to still go with pink?

My pillow means a lot to me still, but it was specially made by my aunt.

As for the FG dresses, Oh my Gosh I like them all! Do you have yours and the bridesmaids picked out yet? Because they could play a part in which FG dress fits the look best.
I can understand why your pillow would mean a lot if it was made my someone special! I like that idea a lot! As for the BM dresses, I dont have any picked out yet. I have some ideas of what I want, one is a light color blue, but not sure of what it will look like. What do you all think, can I have the FG in pink and my girls in light blue?

January-2007
02-28-2008, 10:20 AM
I think it would look fine to have the bridesmaids in light blue and the flower girls in pink. The cake topper is adorable. I'm glad you're taking your planning trip in the spring instead of trying to go over Christmas, as that would be really difficult! Have fun!

biodtl
02-28-2008, 11:30 AM
I think the blue/pink combo works, especially since the pink is so soft. As long as you keep it to one shade of each coloer and don't add more colors, it would be very pretty.

Bethanymouse
02-28-2008, 04:22 PM
I think it would look fine to have the bridesmaids in light blue and the flower girls in pink. The cake topper is adorable. I'm glad you're taking your planning trip in the spring instead of trying to go over Christmas, as that would be really difficult! Have fun!
Thanks, we will go in the spring of 2009. I was a little upset because I was hoping to go and see disney at christmas but its not in the cards I guess!


I think the blue/pink combo works, especially since the pink is so soft. As long as you keep it to one shade of each coloer and don't add more colors, it would be very pretty.

Thanks, I am considering it, depending on what we find. I have other too I am going to post so we can see what is best on. Thanks!

caryrae
02-28-2008, 04:48 PM
Man, this sounds like alot of fun. For those who don't know you can get a free Wedding and Honeymoon planning DVD. Just scroll to bottom of link page. http://www.disneyweddings.go.com/site/wed/cus/start/index.jsp

thrillme
02-28-2008, 05:35 PM
I think the blue/pink combo works, especially since the pink is so soft. As long as you keep it to one shade of each coloer and don't add more colors, it would be very pretty.

I don't know if you're good for this but one thing I did for my "girls" was we had a simple pattern and had them made by a seamstress. I believe they came out to about $80. I chose a pink, white, mint brushed floral cotton. You chould get a very beautiful floral print or water color print that combines both colors very well.

Oddly enough the girls were THRILLED with them. The pictures came out really nice. Beneath the skirts they had some of that netting (not a lot) but enough to give the skirts a little Poof...for the wedding. As it turned out everyone of them ended up wearing their dresses again. One removed a bow and wore it to a Spring dinner function a couple of others wore it to church...another to a spring wedding of a very close friend...the most resistant to ever wear the dress again (she was a hard core believer that no one EVER wears a bridesmaid dress a second time for any reason) was my maid of honor. Of course they all removed the poof and had it shortened. She broke down and wore it into work...Practically everything she owned at the cleaners...She got a ton of compliments on it...I think that frusterated her even more HA HA...

Bethanymouse
02-28-2008, 06:24 PM
Man, this sounds like alot of fun. For those who don't know you can get a free Wedding and Honeymoon planning DVD. Just scroll to bottom of link page. http://www.disneyweddings.go.com/site/wed/cus/start/index.jsp
I also heard that they may be updating it soon, so check back with them in the next few months as well. The dvd really needs to be updated but it gives a good idea of what everything looks like on that day!


I don't know if you're good for this but one thing I did for my "girls" was we had a simple pattern and had them made by a seamstress. I believe they came out to about $80. I chose a pink, white, mint brushed floral cotton. You chould get a very beautiful floral print or water color print that combines both colors very well.

Oddly enough the girls were THRILLED with them. The pictures came out really nice. Beneath the skirts they had some of that netting (not a lot) but enough to give the skirts a little Poof...for the wedding. As it turned out everyone of them ended up wearing their dresses again. One removed a bow and wore it to a Spring dinner function a couple of others wore it to church...another to a spring wedding of a very close friend...the most resistant to ever wear the dress again (she was a hard core believer that no one EVER wears a bridesmaid dress a second time for any reason) was my maid of honor. Of course they all removed the poof and had it shortened. She broke down and wore it into work...Practically everything she owned at the cleaners...She got a ton of compliments on it...I think that frusterated her even more HA HA...
Ha! That is a great story. The dresses you mentioned sound beautiful! I am hoping to get something that the girls can wear again, with a tea length gown I think it is more likely because then it is not as formal and might be able to be pulled off at another function. Thanks for your input!

Bethanymouse
02-28-2008, 06:27 PM
Thanks for reading! Here are some more of the flower girls dresses that I like. 1-4 are on a previous post. Here are some others we are considering. What are your thoughts?

FG Dress 5 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=flowergirl5.jpg)

FG Dress 6 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=flowergirl2.jpg)

FG Dress 7 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=flowergirl1.jpg)

Thoughts?:confused:

Hull-onian
02-28-2008, 07:04 PM
You should do a poll on the dresses. I loved seven. Very sweet.
After reading your posts, I would love to have a Disneymoon for our 20th anniversary this year, it would be so much fun.
Love, Love, Love, the cake topper. It's great.

SBETigg
02-28-2008, 07:08 PM
I love seven, too. So pretty!

Bethanymouse
02-28-2008, 09:55 PM
You should do a poll on the dresses. I loved seven. Very sweet.
After reading your posts, I would love to have a Disneymoon for our 20th anniversary this year, it would be so much fun.
Love, Love, Love, the cake topper. It's great.
Maybe I will, that is a good idea! You should have a disneymoon or maybe a vow renewel? Congrats on 20 years. That is so wonderful!


I love seven, too. So pretty!
Thanks so much, that is one of my favorites of the seven!

Bethanymouse
02-28-2008, 09:58 PM
Hull suggested a poll for the Flowergirl dresses. I really like the idea but I dont think that there is any way to do it. So just let me know what you think about them as I try to figure this thing out! Thanks for reading!

OhToodles!
02-29-2008, 11:25 AM
It sounds like you're doing well. I wish you luck in all your planning! I know when I planned my wedding it felt like I was never going to be done. I feel your pain of your DF not having a job. I was laid off 2 months before our wedding. :( But it did give me a chance to get my invitations addressed. :)

As far as your plans go, I loved dress #4! It just looks so cute and girly. I also tried to pick dresses I thought my girls would wear again (not sure if they have though). I don't think it's necessary for the boys to carry a pillow. I'm still torn about your pink & blue though. I don't want to sound mean, but I keep thinking of cotton candy when I think about the colors. Sorry!

Anyway, I'm sure everything will work out and it will be beautiful! How can it not? You'll be at the most magical place on Earth!:magic:

Bethanymouse
02-29-2008, 04:41 PM
It sounds like you're doing well. I wish you luck in all your planning! I know when I planned my wedding it felt like I was never going to be done. I feel your pain of your DF not having a job. I was laid off 2 months before our wedding. :( But it did give me a chance to get my invitations addressed. :)

As far as your plans go, I loved dress #4! It just looks so cute and girly. I also tried to pick dresses I thought my girls would wear again (not sure if they have though). I don't think it's necessary for the boys to carry a pillow. I'm still torn about your pink & blue though. I don't want to sound mean, but I keep thinking of cotton candy when I think about the colors. Sorry!

Anyway, I'm sure everything will work out and it will be beautiful! How can it not? You'll be at the most magical place on Earth!:magic:

Thanks so much for your well wishes! That is one way to get those invites done! I know what you mean about cotton candy- dont think it didnt cross my mind! I am still torn, perhaps if they can get the dress in a light blue. But sometimes those dresses look too pagent like. Thanks for your opinion, I value everyones on here. You guys are my saving graces!

Thanks for reading!:mickey:

princessjojo
02-29-2008, 08:38 PM
Hello all, Just thought I would share some flowergirl dresses that I like so far. We have one flowergirl. She will be 5 years old at the time of our wedding. I have only a few concerns about the dress that I pick for her.
- I dont want her to look like a mini bride (white is ok, I like white, but not too bridal)
- I dont want her to look like one of those child beautify queens.

FG Dress 4 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=flowergirl4.jpg)


I like dress 4 best. But like you said, I like white as well. You could always find a plain white dress then have white tulle and your favorite white eyelet added over the dress from the waist down. It would turn out very much like dress 4 and may be much less expensive if this is even an issue.

biodtl
02-29-2008, 10:02 PM
OK - now FG 6 and 7 are now in the lead. I'm loving every minute of this! Thanks so much for sharing it all!

Kairi_7378
03-01-2008, 10:09 AM
I like all of your dresses (except for 5) but I think 7 is my favorite. It's a little different than any of the other dresses I've seen, and your FG will feel like a princess in it! I would be surprised if you couldn't get it in several colors. Another plus to this dress is that it will coordinate with a lot of the styles that are popular for BM dresses right now. The pale blue will be very pretty... and if you go with the Cinderella table setup, everyone will match the theme!
I didn't mean to scare you about the ringbearers being picky about pillows. I have seen many weddings where the boys didn't carry anything and just walked with the flower girl. We had two but only one had the rings and pillow. When he got to the end of the aisle, he kind of tossed the pillow at the best man (this wasn't rehearsed.) When we look at our pictures, our very dignified best man is holding this frilly little pillow! It worked out okay since he was able to hand them directly to the priest that way. Kids do some silly things sometimes.

Hull-onian
03-01-2008, 10:25 AM
:thanks: for the congrats on 20 years. We are looking at Disney Cruise Lines. It is a strong possibility. So many choices, so little time.

PirateLover
03-02-2008, 09:06 AM
I like #2 and #7 for the flower girl dresses :)

I also agree about finding bridesmaid dresses that the girls can wear again. I have to admit it's such a pet peeve of mine to go to weddings where the bridesmaids are still in froofy traditional dresses that you could never wear anywhere else again. My only assumption is that maybe they are cheaper than the more stylish gowns? But at the same time, I've been looking around for ideas for my wedding and I've found a lot of relatively inexpensive yet very stylish dresses that could be worn to any kind of formal event. Maybe some people just don't care as much about fashion, lol. Do you have any pictures of dresses you are considering for bridesmaids?

Bethanymouse
03-02-2008, 03:15 PM
I like dress 4 best. But like you said, I like white as well. You could always find a plain white dress then have white tulle and your favorite white eyelet added over the dress from the waist down. It would turn out very much like dress 4 and may be much less expensive if this is even an issue.
Very true and a good thought. The flowergirl's parents have told us price is not an issue for them. They are so excited that she is in the wedding! I am definitely considering price though because that is my way of doing things so thanks for the idea!


OK - now FG 6 and 7 are now in the lead. I'm loving every minute of this! Thanks so much for sharing it all!
Thanks for coming along for the ride! I do love all of them, some more than others but I just cant decide! Thanks for reading!


I like all of your dresses (except for 5) but I think 7 is my favorite. It's a little different than any of the other dresses I've seen, and your FG will feel like a princess in it! I would be surprised if you couldn't get it in several colors. Another plus to this dress is that it will coordinate with a lot of the styles that are popular for BM dresses right now. The pale blue will be very pretty... and if you go with the Cinderella table setup, everyone will match the theme!
I didn't mean to scare you about the ringbearers being picky about pillows. I have seen many weddings where the boys didn't carry anything and just walked with the flower girl. We had two but only one had the rings and pillow. When he got to the end of the aisle, he kind of tossed the pillow at the best man (this wasn't rehearsed.) When we look at our pictures, our very dignified best man is holding this frilly little pillow! It worked out okay since he was able to hand them directly to the priest that way. Kids do some silly things sometimes.
That is so funny about the best man! I bet he loved that! I am hoping she will feel like a princess cause she loves princesses!


:thanks: for the congrats on 20 years. We are looking at Disney Cruise Lines. It is a strong possibility. So many choices, so little time.
It is so nice to see couples make those HUGE milestones these days. My parents just hit 35 years. You and your husband and those alike are inspirations to Anthony and I. Best of luck on your planning. There are some great website about people who have had disney vow renewels if you are interested PM me.


I like #2 and #7 for the flower girl dresses :)

I also agree about finding bridesmaid dresses that the girls can wear again. I have to admit it's such a pet peeve of mine to go to weddings where the bridesmaids are still in froofy traditional dresses that you could never wear anywhere else again. My only assumption is that maybe they are cheaper than the more stylish gowns? But at the same time, I've been looking around for ideas for my wedding and I've found a lot of relatively inexpensive yet very stylish dresses that could be worn to any kind of formal event. Maybe some people just don't care as much about fashion, lol. Do you have any pictures of dresses you are considering for bridesmaids?
I do have some pictures of dresses we are considering but not many. I will try to upload them sometime today or tomorrow night. I think finding BM gowns is just as tough as the wedding gown. I want my girls to be comfortable and the material to be light and airy since it is Florida. I dont want a typical "gown" for them. I will try to post some later.

Thanks for reading all!

Bethanymouse
03-02-2008, 03:26 PM
Just an update on what has been going on here. Yesterday my two close girlfriends Amy and Christine took me to NYC for my birthday to see The Little Mermaid on Broadway. This is my second time seeing it and it was still just as magical. We had a great time, but all we did was eat prior to the show. For those of you who dont know I am on what I refer to as bridal bootcamp! Trying to lose about 50 more pounds before September or October this year. I am doing it a healthy way and following the weight watchers program. I started this on January 4 and I am down about 17-18 pounds. Seeing that bit of success is really helpful but I am starting to slow up seeing it come off which is getting frustrating. Anyway, we got to the city around lunch time and I was starving. So were the girls. We decided to go to a pub that was right next door to where we parked. It was really cute resturant but their menu was less than healthy. I managed to find ways to make positive meal choices and off we went. I admit it was tough watching them eat some real goodies but I kept strong!:blush:

Amy had heard about a famous cupcake bakery in the Village called Magnolias. She had been there a few times before and was going on about these cupcakes, we decided we had to go. We hailed a cab and off we went. Staying strong for the second time, we all waited in line to even get in the store. The smell of cupcakes was making us salivate. Thank god there was no place inside to eat them, that saved me for indulging when I knew I shouldnt. After stopping in some stores, we decided we were hungry for dinner. Are you noticing a pattern here? We went to this place called the Cafeteria which is best know for their mac and cheese- which by the way is my biggest downfall. We opted to go there anyway and the girls both got mac and cheese and some other really great stuff. Me, I stuck with an endive salad. So on to the exciting news. I woke up this morning and I was down 1.5 pounds!!! Yeah!!! I feel like God decided to reward me for not eating all those calories yesterday! :thumbsup::cloud9::thumbsup:. I was ecstatic. So motivated that I went to the gym for 2 hours today and did weights and walked 3 miles on the treadmill as well as some other stuff! Just keep picturing that white gown!!! Thats what I do!

Sorry for the long story, just wanted to take you along. Losing weight is one of my big things to do before the wedding. I need to get healthy and I want to feel good in my gown.

Onto wedding stuff: We called Randy Chapman and we hope to meet him this summer to discuss photography packages and pricing. We know that we will want him for 8 hours and see who he recommends for video besides the first guy he recommended who has received poor reviews by other brides on other websites. We also have been looking into DJ's and we have a guy from NJ that wants to travel down and do our wedding. We will have to see how much that will be.

On a positive note, my flowergirl is an older sister as of early this morning! She has a little sister born at a healthy 6lbs 10 oz! We are very excited. Thanks for reading, I will try to add some pics tonight!:mickey:

Hull-onian
03-03-2008, 07:12 PM
Happy Belated Birthday!!! I like you, am trying loose a few pounds. I switched to oranges, apples, and yogurt for lunch. I am skipping my fifteen minute break (don't tell anyone :secret:)
and walking. I gave up diet coke. It's killing me, so I am drinking water. Dinner is, a salad, a green veggie, (no mashed potatoe's), and very a small piece of chicken, fish, or meat. We gotta stick together on this weight loss thing. I know we can do it.:scale:

SBETigg
03-03-2008, 07:51 PM
Wow, you passed up the mac and cheese at Cafeteria, and you were so good! Yay for you! That weight loss must feel especially triumphant. :party:

Bethanymouse
03-03-2008, 10:18 PM
Happy Belated Birthday!!! I like you, am trying loose a few pounds. I switched to oranges, apples, and yogurt for lunch. I am skipping my fifteen minute break (don't tell anyone :secret:)
and walking. I gave up diet coke. It's killing me, so I am drinking water. Dinner is, a salad, a green veggie, (no mashed potatoe's), and very a small piece of chicken, fish, or meat. We gotta stick together on this weight loss thing. I know we can do it.:scale:
We can do it and we will! It is so hard but so worth it. I heard someone say once, nothing tastes as good as being thin feels. Its true to. Do you like English muffins? They make light english muffins now which are only 1 point on weight watchers. Add some spray butter for zero points and a WW yogurt and I am good to go for breakfast! Good luck to you and keep up the hard work!

Wow, you passed up the mac and cheese at Cafeteria, and you were so good! Yay for you! That weight loss must feel especially triumphant. :party:
The mac and cheese was tough to say no to, I must admit. I was very excited. Also after yesterday afternoon's two hour gym session I am down another half a pound today- hey I will take what I can get. Thanks for the encouragement- I sure need it!

Hull-onian
03-04-2008, 07:22 PM
By Bethany:

The mac and cheese was tough to say no to, I must admit. I was very excited. Also after yesterday afternoon's two hour gym session I am down another half a pound today- hey I will take what I can get. Thanks for the encouragement- I sure need it!
I like the idea of looking thin. I think thin everyday. I did good to day. Had salad, corn, and fish for dinner. Water to drink. I feel Satisfied so far. Hope I don't tumble. Gotta keep on walking :walk:.

Bethanymouse
03-04-2008, 10:03 PM
By Bethany:

I like the idea of looking thin. I think thin everyday. I did good to day. Had salad, corn, and fish for dinner. Water to drink. I feel Satisfied so far. Hope I don't tumble. Gotta keep on walking :walk:.

Good one! Glad to hear you had a good day. It about taking one day at a time. I did ok today. We had to attend a funeral for my cousin so the repasse didnt offer many healthy choices. My dinner choices were good and I went to the gym again when I got home. I did about 2.5 miles on treadmill and 3 on bike plus did some weights. Hoping to lose 10 more pounds before the end of March! Keep up your good work. We can support each other. Anyone doing the diet thing, feel free to post on here what you are doing and what you ate if you feel it will help. A lot of my planning journal will probably be about what I am eating and doing throughout my days. It is all part of the planning process. Thanks for reading!

Bethanymouse
03-04-2008, 10:15 PM
Well just wanted to check in. Anthony and I started the guest list last night. Talk about stress. We were trying to keep it under 100 people and it is already 150. It is 99% family too. I know they wont all travel but still, it is a big list!

We are discussing honeymoon possibilities. We LOVE our disney world obviously so we will probably spend a week there after the wedding but we were also thinking of other places to go. We are thinking Carribean or Sanibel Island. Any thoughts? I have heard great things about Antigua and Anguilla. Has anyone been there? Know any good hotels? Any info would be helpful and any suggestions of honeymoon destinations around the carribean or Florida.

As for actual planning, not much else is new. I promise to post the pics of possible bridesmaids dresses sometime this week. Things are pretty hectic here now so thanks for checking in and reading. I really look forward to hearing suggestions and ideas from you. Thanks for reading!:mickey:

Bethanymouse
03-06-2008, 05:12 PM
Well, another day another dollar. Another day of the gym....i feel like all i do is work, eat, work out, eat, work, and go to bed! Time for some fun! Thought I would finally post some pics of the bridesmaids dresses we are considering. Most likely they will be in a pale blue or a carribean blue (leaning more towards a brighter shade of blue). Please be honest and let me know what you think!

I think this one would flatter everyone but I would want them to have the option of straps. I am not comfortable in strapless so I dont know if they will be.
Bridesmaids dress 1 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=bridesmaids3.jpg)

Here is the thing with this dress. I am not sure if I love it or hate it. Everytime I see it I think something differently. I almost think that it makes the girls look pregnant....thoughts?

Bridesmaid dress 2 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=bridesmaids2.jpg)

I think this one captures the look I am going for. Summery, chiffon, light.....
Bridesmaid dress 3 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=bridesmaids1.jpg)

Thats if for now. Thanks for reading!

Hull-onian
03-06-2008, 07:03 PM
Number One: Too plain. Didn't care for the strapless part of it.

Number Two: Not too bad. Does it come in different colors?

Number Three: Liked the tea length in blue. Is it an afternoon or evening wedding?
Long would be good in the evening.
I am sure you will hit on the right one.:thumbsup:

princessjojo
03-06-2008, 07:03 PM
I'm so glad to hear things are coming along so well. And for the weight loss you've had...well...that is fantastic. Not only do you get a great sense of satisfaction and pride in a job well done, you get the perks of better overall health & preventative care as well. You deserve a pat on the back for that, but not too big, you're not at you're goal yet.

As for your bridesmaids dresses, I detect a tendency towards the empire waist. Dress 2 is a really pretty dress, but kinda "vanilla." I do agree that the girls looked somewhat slightly pregnant. But I loved the way it gathered very slightly across the top and the ribbon around the high waist. And for dress 1, well, I'm 5'1(maybe) and 105, but top-heavy for my size. I too would feel kinda uncomfortable in a strapless dress. But I really liked it. The end of the dress could be cut off and hemmed to make a really cute summer dress for someone. I love dress 3 for the straps. They also could easily be converted into something more casual for later use, just as shown. I know this sounds really stupid, but they almost look like sherbert with regards to the colors. With the white and blue or orangish/pinkish color, they look so very soft and smooth, like sherbert. I think that one is my favorite, though it may look just a smidgin less formal than the others.

I'm glad to hear you had such a great birthday. I have been so many places, but NY is one place I haven't been. I have a friend in Jersey (Bordentown) who keeps asking me to come up and she'll take me, but our schedules keep falling apart. I'm sure though that The Little Mermaid was great.

I can't wait to hear more!!!

Bethanymouse
03-06-2008, 10:01 PM
Number One: Too plain. Didn't care for the strapless part of it.

Number Two: Not too bad. Does it come in different colors?

Number Three: Liked the tea length in blue. Is it an afternoon or evening wedding?
Long would be good in the evening.
I am sure you will hit on the right one.:thumbsup:
Dress number two does come in different colors, though I am not sure which ones. I would have to check. We are having an afternoon ceremony most likely with a 5 o'clock reception. I like the tea length the best I think.....


I'm so glad to hear things are coming along so well. And for the weight loss you've had...well...that is fantastic. Not only do you get a great sense of satisfaction and pride in a job well done, you get the perks of better overall health & preventative care as well. You deserve a pat on the back for that, but not too big, you're not at you're goal yet.

As for your bridesmaids dresses, I detect a tendency towards the empire waist. Dress 2 is a really pretty dress, but kinda "vanilla." I do agree that the girls looked somewhat slightly pregnant. But I loved the way it gathered very slightly across the top and the ribbon around the high waist. And for dress 1, well, I'm 5'1(maybe) and 105, but top-heavy for my size. I too would feel kinda uncomfortable in a strapless dress. But I really liked it. The end of the dress could be cut off and hemmed to make a really cute summer dress for someone. I love dress 3 for the straps. They also could easily be converted into something more casual for later use, just as shown. I know this sounds really stupid, but they almost look like sherbert with regards to the colors. With the white and blue or orangish/pinkish color, they look so very soft and smooth, like sherbert. I think that one is my favorite, though it may look just a smidgin less formal than the others.

I'm glad to hear you had such a great birthday. I have been so many places, but NY is one place I haven't been. I have a friend in Jersey (Bordentown) who keeps asking me to come up and she'll take me, but our schedules keep falling apart. I'm sure though that The Little Mermaid was great.

I can't wait to hear more!!!

Thanks so much for reading! I did love the Little Mermaid! NYC is so much fun, we try to go once a month or every other month. It really is a treasure to live within 2 hours of it.

As for the weight loss, I am motivated but feel it is coming off so slow.....Going to the gym and hoping to speed it up. It is always going to be a challenge!

Thanks for your input on the dresses. I liked the third ones best I think but I am worried about the bust lines for my girls. They are all different shapes and sizes with some having too much and some not having any. Thanks for reading and for your encouragement!:mickey:

MissStyles
03-07-2008, 08:44 AM
Bethany,

I've been reading this thread all along and I just want to post that I'm here for support. I'm planning a small wedding myself for June of 2009 - not in Disney, but still I understand what you're going through. I feel like all the places I'm contacting think it's too early for me to start planning. I do not like leaving things until the last minute and I just like to know what's going on!!! hehe. I wanted to let you know that you're doing a great job and if you ever need to vent feel free to PM me. I didn't get a chance to look at the dresses bcos pictures are blocked at work. Thanks for sharing your journey with us!!!! :mickey:

Kairi_7378
03-08-2008, 10:34 AM
Let me see... you are planning a wedding, you're helping your DF find a job, you work full time in what has got to be a stressful job, you're working on a PhD... and you're dieting?! You are a braver woman than I am! Congratulations on your success so far! Try not to get frustrated and the plateaus that you will encounter as you try to loose the weight. You can do it!!! I had two friends that did Weight Watchers and they each lost about 50 pounds, and were able to keep it off.

As for vendors that won't let you plan ahead, smile, nod, and pick as much as you can before they let you make decisions. Go into your meetings with a list of the stuff that you've decided on. If they think you are an organized bride they will take you seriously, answer your calls faster, and stop brushing you off as "too early."

I was curious... with a Disney wedding, do you get to do any food tastings when you pick your venue? You mentioned a Spring trip to work out all of your details. Some of the menus have some great selections on them.

As far as your bridesmaid dresses... I noticed that you like the empire style. Are any of your bridesmaids curvy? If so, I think that the empire style tends to make people look pregnant. I have more of an hourglass figure and had to wear a dress like #2 in a wedding and I felt very self conscious in it. I like the straps on dress #3, though... and it looks more like a dress that I would pick to wear than a bridesmaid dress. I think you could go with either length depending on what your dress looks like. (If you have a long train and very formal dress, I think the longer length would be more appropriate than the shorter one.)

poohbearlover15
03-08-2008, 02:48 PM
I like the BM dress #3. I think since your going to be in florida you should go with the shorter one!

dolphinmickey9170
03-08-2008, 04:06 PM
We had a Disney wedding (http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2835578660042804337AaPlgw), well.....so to speak in 2006. We got married at Sunset Point at Poly. It was fabulous. I had a cake and beverages from GF bakery on our Wishes cruise boat. I found my own official to perform the ceremony. I had a few friends and family members (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2309461380042804337gErdXF)with me. I made my own flowers (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2602833510042804337JltlcN). Disney didn't do anything. It was only $250 for the wishes boat, it was 125 for the cake (http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2602306730042804337AhbXdT) and beverages (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2556016620042804337JjZLOx). I was even allowed to keep the cake plate and champagne (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2532216430042804337jcxtca)glasses. I paid 150 for the official (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2468550290042804337fHTfIN). My friend made my daughters dresses (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2437731490042804337TiKGjr), and I bought mine at David's for 99. I didn't even spend $1000. But I still got married at Disney and the wishes cruise was our reception. It was awesome!

This pic (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2212922940042804337DrAfuH)was before we boarded the cruise vessel. It was about 815pm. Can you see the castle between our heads?

Paul (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2309720370042804337JJgjES), our captain (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2482692720042804337izaUaK), was the BEST cast member ever!! We loved him!!

Here is a view of Wishes (http://good-times.webshots.com/album/562230464mRyYMO?start=132)from our cruise vessel.

Then we went to the GF lobby (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2482692720042804337izaUaK)and hung out with our friends (http://good-times.webshots.com/album/562230464mRyYMO?start=168) and took pictures (http://good-times.webshots.com/album/562230464mRyYMO?start=156). It was a very nice time.

If you have any questions, please feel free to PM me!! Good luck with the planning. Looking forward to more.

dolphinmickey9170
03-08-2008, 05:24 PM
I love seven, too. So pretty!

I was rooting for #4, until I saw #7!! So beautiful.

Bethanymouse
03-08-2008, 05:31 PM
Bethany,

I've been reading this thread all along and I just want to post that I'm here for support. I'm planning a small wedding myself for June of 2009 - not in Disney, but still I understand what you're going through. I feel like all the places I'm contacting think it's too early for me to start planning. I do not like leaving things until the last minute and I just like to know what's going on!!! hehe. I wanted to let you know that you're doing a great job and if you ever need to vent feel free to PM me. I didn't get a chance to look at the dresses bcos pictures are blocked at work. Thanks for sharing your journey with us!!!! :mickey:
Thanks so much for reading! Congrats on your wedding. It is such an exciting time! I really enjoy sharing everything with my intercot friends!


We had a Disney wedding (http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2835578660042804337AaPlgw), well.....so to speak in 2006. We got married at Sunset Point at Poly. It was fabulous. I had a cake and beverages from GF bakery on our Wishes cruise boat. I found my own official to perform the ceremony. I had a few friends and family members (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2309461380042804337gErdXF)with me. I made my own flowers (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2602833510042804337JltlcN). Disney didn't do anything. It was only $250 for the wishes boat, it was 125 for the cake (http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2602306730042804337AhbXdT) and beverages (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2556016620042804337JjZLOx). I was even allowed to keep the cake plate and champagne (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2532216430042804337jcxtca)glasses. I paid 150 for the official (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2468550290042804337fHTfIN). My friend made my daughters dresses (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2437731490042804337TiKGjr), and I bought mine at David's for 99. I didn't even spend $1000. But I still got married at Disney and the wishes cruise was our reception. It was awesome!

This pic (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2212922940042804337DrAfuH)was before we boarded the cruise vessel. It was about 815pm. Can you see the castle between our heads?

Paul (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2309720370042804337JJgjES), our captain (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2482692720042804337izaUaK), was the BEST cast member ever!! We loved him!!

Here is a view of Wishes (http://good-times.webshots.com/album/562230464mRyYMO?start=132)from our cruise vessel.

Then we went to the GF lobby (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2482692720042804337izaUaK)and hung out with our friends (http://good-times.webshots.com/album/562230464mRyYMO?start=168) and took pictures (http://good-times.webshots.com/album/562230464mRyYMO?start=156). It was a very nice time.

If you have any questions, please feel free to PM me!! Good luck with the planning. Looking forward to more.
WoW! What beautiful pictures. Thanks so much for sharing them with all of us. It looks like everyone had a great time. A wedding for under 1000 bucks is fabulous! We are trying to keep it under 25K and finding that hard! Thanks so much for sharing and for reading!


I was rooting for #4, until I saw #7!! So beautiful.
Thanks so much, I like number 7 a lot too!

Bethanymouse
03-08-2008, 05:36 PM
Let me see... you are planning a wedding, you're helping your DF find a job, you work full time in what has got to be a stressful job, you're working on a PhD... and you're dieting?! You are a braver woman than I am! Congratulations on your success so far! Try not to get frustrated and the plateaus that you will encounter as you try to loose the weight. You can do it!!! I had two friends that did Weight Watchers and they each lost about 50 pounds, and were able to keep it off.

As for vendors that won't let you plan ahead, smile, nod, and pick as much as you can before they let you make decisions. Go into your meetings with a list of the stuff that you've decided on. If they think you are an organized bride they will take you seriously, answer your calls faster, and stop brushing you off as "too early."

I was curious... with a Disney wedding, do you get to do any food tastings when you pick your venue? You mentioned a Spring trip to work out all of your details. Some of the menus have some great selections on them.

As far as your bridesmaid dresses... I noticed that you like the empire style. Are any of your bridesmaids curvy? If so, I think that the empire style tends to make people look pregnant. I have more of an hourglass figure and had to wear a dress like #2 in a wedding and I felt very self conscious in it. I like the straps on dress #3, though... and it looks more like a dress that I would pick to wear than a bridesmaid dress. I think you could go with either length depending on what your dress looks like. (If you have a long train and very formal dress, I think the longer length would be more appropriate than the shorter one.)

Thanks so much for all of your advice. You are right about them taking me more seriously if I know ahead of time what I like. Unfortunately sometime that takes on another spin and they think you are a bridezilla.

My girls are a variety of shapes. I may have one that is pregnant. Two are in very good shape and the others have some curves. None of my girls are extremely heavy but I know how uncomfortable wearing some BM gowns can be so I want them to be truly comfortable. Thanks for your view on the BM gowns, I do appreciate it.

We do get to pick out some food for our reception. About 6-8 months out we can go and taste test some foods. I believe they limit you but the menu choices can be mostly anything you have tasted in the "world". We are really excited about that. Many people have even suggested the Cheddar Cheese soup from Le Cellier! Cake tasting also sounds like fun, especially with this diet!

Thanks so much for reading and for all of your advice! :mickey:

dolphinmickey9170
03-08-2008, 05:38 PM
Well, another day another dollar. Another day of the gym....i feel like all i do is work, eat, work out, eat, work, and go to bed! Time for some fun! Thought I would finally post some pics of the bridesmaids dresses we are considering. Most likely they will be in a pale blue or a carribean blue (leaning more towards a brighter shade of blue). Please be honest and let me know what you think!

I think this one would flatter everyone but I would want them to have the option of straps. I am not comfortable in strapless so I dont know if they will be.
Bridesmaids dress 1 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=bridesmaids3.jpg)

Here is the thing with this dress. I am not sure if I love it or hate it. Everytime I see it I think something differently. I almost think that it makes the girls look pregnant....thoughts?

Bridesmaid dress 2 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=bridesmaids2.jpg)

I think this one captures the look I am going for. Summery, chiffon, light.....
Bridesmaid dress 3 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=bridesmaids1.jpg)

Thats if for now. Thanks for reading!

I agree about the "preggers" comment, for both 1 and 2. I really think 3 is the better of them all. This would be something the ladies could wear again. I really like the t-length one. The blue is really pretty and the length says, "yes, I can wear this again."

Hull-onian
03-08-2008, 05:55 PM
We had a Disney wedding (http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2835578660042804337AaPlgw), well.....so to speak in 2006. We got married at Sunset Point at Poly. It was fabulous. I had a cake and beverages from GF bakery on our Wishes cruise boat. I found my own official to perform the ceremony. I had a few friends and family members (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2309461380042804337gErdXF)with me. I made my own flowers (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2602833510042804337JltlcN). Disney didn't do anything. It was only $250 for the wishes boat, it was 125 for the cake (http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2602306730042804337AhbXdT) and beverages (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2556016620042804337JjZLOx). I was even allowed to keep the cake plate and champagne (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2532216430042804337jcxtca)glasses. I paid 150 for the official (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2468550290042804337fHTfIN). My friend made my daughters dresses (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2437731490042804337TiKGjr), and I bought mine at David's for 99. I didn't even spend $1000. But I still got married at Disney and the wishes cruise was our reception. It was awesome!

This pic (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2212922940042804337DrAfuH)was before we boarded the cruise vessel. It was about 815pm. Can you see the castle between our heads?

Paul (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2309720370042804337JJgjES), our captain (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2482692720042804337izaUaK), was the BEST cast member ever!! We loved him!!

Here is a view of Wishes (http://good-times.webshots.com/album/562230464mRyYMO?start=132)from our cruise vessel.

Then we went to the GF lobby (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2482692720042804337izaUaK)and hung out with our friends (http://good-times.webshots.com/album/562230464mRyYMO?start=168) and took pictures (http://good-times.webshots.com/album/562230464mRyYMO?start=156). It was a very nice time.

If you have any questions, please feel free to PM me!! Good luck with the planning. Looking forward to more.
Kristen, Congrats to you and Ben. Thanks for sharing your photos. Your daughters are very lovely.

AuntDJ
03-08-2008, 06:05 PM
Bethany~

Congrats on the weight loss so far! Keep up the good work!

So for the BM dresses...I love #3; However, please look at your bridemaids bodies. It looks like a dress that would be difficult to have a bra on with...if you have any top heavy BM's they might be uncomfortable....

i think you are doing a great job so far!

DJ

January-2007
03-08-2008, 07:23 PM
We had a Disney wedding (http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2835578660042804337AaPlgw), well.....so to speak in 2006. We got married at Sunset Point at Poly. It was fabulous. I had a cake and beverages from GF bakery on our Wishes cruise boat. I found my own official to perform the ceremony. I had a few friends and family members (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2309461380042804337gErdXF)with me. I made my own flowers (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2602833510042804337JltlcN). Disney didn't do anything. It was only $250 for the wishes boat, it was 125 for the cake (http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2602306730042804337AhbXdT) and beverages (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2556016620042804337JjZLOx). I was even allowed to keep the cake plate and champagne (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2532216430042804337jcxtca)glasses. I paid 150 for the official (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2468550290042804337fHTfIN). My friend made my daughters dresses (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2437731490042804337TiKGjr), and I bought mine at David's for 99. I didn't even spend $1000. But I still got married at Disney and the wishes cruise was our reception. It was awesome!



Wow. That is so cool thank you so much for sharing! My computer is super slow so I've only been able to see the first two pictures, but let me just say, that wedding cake is so beautiful! I plan to have a re-hitching ceremony with DH in a few years so we might just go for something neat like that!

Hull-onian
03-09-2008, 09:41 AM
So far it has been a good read. We will all be expert wedding planners. :bride: :groom: I'd like to see the invitation when it is ready.

Bethanymouse
03-09-2008, 12:50 PM
I agree about the "preggers" comment, for both 1 and 2. I really think 3 is the better of them all. This would be something the ladies could wear again. I really like the t-length one. The blue is really pretty and the length says, "yes, I can wear this again."
That is what I was thinking about the third one too. I just worry about the top part of it.

Bethany~

Congrats on the weight loss so far! Keep up the good work!

So for the BM dresses...I love #3; However, please look at your bridemaids bodies. It looks like a dress that would be difficult to have a bra on with...if you have any top heavy BM's they might be uncomfortable....

i think you are doing a great job so far!

DJ
Thanks! I agree about the top part and 3 of my girls have a bigger bust so it might be difficult for them to pull that off. That was my mom's concern also. I dont want them to be uncomfortable with that the whole evening.


So far it has been a good read. We will all be expert wedding planners. :bride: :groom: I'd like to see the invitation when it is ready.
Thanks so much. We have picked out what we think our invitation will be. It probably wont be ordered until September or October because we wont know the finalized date until then. I will try to find it online to give everyone a look at what we think we are getting. I am also going to send out save the date dvds. I will post more about that later. Thanks for reading!

biodtl
03-10-2008, 01:56 PM
I think this one would flatter everyone but I would want them to have the option of straps. I am not comfortable in strapless so I dont know if they will be.
Bridesmaids dress 1

Here is the thing with this dress. I am not sure if I love it or hate it. Everytime I see it I think something differently. I almost think that it makes the girls look pregnant....thoughts?

Bridesmaid dress 2

I think this one captures the look I am going for. Summery, chiffon, light.....
Bridesmaid dress 3


I really like #1 - it has a very romantic feel. of course the strapless could be a problem, although it seems to be "roomy" enough for a well endowed woman.

I do think #2 has a pregant look to it - I love empire waist, but only with certain styles/fabrics. The combo of the empire waist, stiffer fabris and slight pleating at the waistline would make it hard for someone who isn't a twig to not look pregnant.

#3 is very pretty, too, but as a well-endowed girl, I know that I would have a hard time with this one. In fact, #1 - though strapless - would probably provide more coverage and support.



Are any of your bridesmaids curvy? If so, I think that the empire style tends to make people look pregnant.
I don't know - I think that empire can be very flattering on a curvy (I wear it a lot), as long as it fits well and it the right fabric, etc.

Sometimes, the best thing is to take 1 or 2 of the hardest to fit girls (really thin, curvy, busty) and have them try a few on. The more average girls won't have as much of a problem.

Also - I was in a wedding recently where we all wore the same color/fabric/designer, but slightly different styles. It was great because we had a couple young skinny-minis (one about 5'10" and a size 4), a couple average and a couple older and plus sized. It looked beautiful - since they cae from the same designer and color, they had a cohesiveness, but we all felt beautiful and comfortable. I was wary that it would look mismatched, but it was great.

Hull-onian
03-12-2008, 08:42 AM
Bethany, It has not been easy. But I have lost ten pounds since you started the thread. Now I have to find a wedding to go to.:funny: Your thread is great.

Bethanymouse
03-12-2008, 07:03 PM
Bethany, It has not been easy. But I have lost ten pounds since you started the thread. Now I have to find a wedding to go to.:funny: Your thread is great.

Thats great! Congrats to you!:clappy::woohoo::joy: I am so happy for you! That is a great accomplishment. I told you we can do this together!

I went to they gym today, I am going to weigh myself tomorrow. I am hoping I am down at least a pound from last week. I have been eating better and trying to go to the gym at least 4 times a week. We are motivating each other!

Wedding planning is kind of at a stand still right now. I havent even had time to look up anything that I like. School is starting to take over now that we are midway through the semester. My dad bought me a new bridal magazine and I havent even had the time to glance through it. I will keep everyone updated if I find out anymore info or anything online. Thanks for reading!:mickey:

murphy1
03-16-2008, 01:06 PM
You're coming along! I love the BM dresses. I agree on #3, I am heavier on top and I couldn't wear it or wouldn't feel comfortable in it. I'm on the thin side too. I really like #2 and they really could have it shortened and wear it again. Check our Stan Kelley's portfolio, he does some nice work (he is on the sponsor side) I'm planning on using him on one of our trips down there to take pics of my girls, his prices look good, too. Have you see that show on TLC about Kleinfeld's, the bridal dress store? You should! RoryJulie had a beautiful WDW wedding and she lives in NYC (she's a member here at Icot) I bet she would love to help you, too.

princessjojo
03-16-2008, 01:30 PM
Also - I was in a wedding recently where we all wore the same color/fabric/designer, but slightly different styles. It was great because we had a couple young skinny-minis (one about 5'10" and a size 4), a couple average and a couple older and plus sized. It looked beautiful - since they cae from the same designer and color, they had a cohesiveness, but we all felt beautiful and comfortable. I was wary that it would look mismatched, but it was great.
That is a really great thought. I've seen this before and it tends to bring a little diversity and individuality to your attendants. And in the end you want them to all look their best and if they are all dressed alike, but differently, they will be able to look their best in what you prefer them to be wearing. I guess accentuate the positives of all the girls. One may have a shoulder wrap made from any excess of the length of another girls dress.

I just love reading this Bethany. It makes me want to plan a wedding again without really having to pay for it or go through all the motions. Mine too was on the pricey side. We were married in early evening, 7pm, with primarily candle light with minimal electric lighting. It was beautiful. But our reception cost more than my car at the time and there was no alcohol or live music involved. I would do it all over again though with only minimal changes, not the groom of course.

Hull-onian
03-16-2008, 03:37 PM
Bethany, This thread has been terrific. The weight is still coming off. I purchased a new swimsuit and it is a teensy weensy tight. But if I can loose about five or ten more pounds, I should be set for my trip.
Looking forward to hearing more about your wedding plans.

Bethanymouse
03-16-2008, 10:52 PM
You're coming along! I love the BM dresses. I agree on #3, I am heavier on top and I couldn't wear it or wouldn't feel comfortable in it. I'm on the thin side too. I really like #2 and they really could have it shortened and wear it again. Check our Stan Kelley's portfolio, he does some nice work (he is on the sponsor side) I'm planning on using him on one of our trips down there to take pics of my girls, his prices look good, too. Have you see that show on TLC about Kleinfeld's, the bridal dress store? You should! RoryJulie had a beautiful WDW wedding and she lives in NYC (she's a member here at Icot) I bet she would love to help you, too.
Thanks for your input! I have heard of Kleinfeld's and we may check it out. I am far from being bridal dress ready but hopefully by the end of the summer, early fall I will be at that point. I will have to ask RoryJulie for some input! Is that where she got her dress? Thanks for your help!


That is a really great thought. I've seen this before and it tends to bring a little diversity and individuality to your attendants. And in the end you want them to all look their best and if they are all dressed alike, but differently, they will be able to look their best in what you prefer them to be wearing. I guess accentuate the positives of all the girls. One may have a shoulder wrap made from any excess of the length of another girls dress.

I just love reading this Bethany. It makes me want to plan a wedding again without really having to pay for it or go through all the motions. Mine too was on the pricey side. We were married in early evening, 7pm, with primarily candle light with minimal electric lighting. It was beautiful. But our reception cost more than my car at the time and there was no alcohol or live music involved. I would do it all over again though with only minimal changes, not the groom of course.
Thanks for reading along. I love sharing it with all of you! Weddings can be so expensive. We are trying to keep it reasonable but still have an elegant and classy affair. I feel like too many girls get carried away nowadays and forget its about the marriage not the wedding itself. Thanks for reading!

Bethany, This thread has been terrific. The weight is still coming off. I purchased a new swimsuit and it is a teensy weensy tight. But if I can loose about five or ten more pounds, I should be set for my trip.
Looking forward to hearing more about your wedding plans.
Good for you! That is great! I did some shopping this weekend too. Picked up some shirts for work because my spring ones are going to be too big. It is a fun reason to shop that is for sure! I am so proud of you. I am down another 2 pounds. I officially at a 20 lb loss as of this morning which is really exciting. I struggled with that last 2 but it came off fast this week now that the gym is in place. That eliptical machine is the best! It burns tons of calories!

I will hopefully update with some more info and pics this week. I am on spring break from grad school so I am hoping to take some time for Intercot! Thanks so much for reading and for everyone's support. I love hearing from all of you! :mickey:

murphy1
03-17-2008, 07:54 AM
Bethany, I haven't seen RoryJulie (Julie post in awhile, but you can look her up under members. I don't know where she got her dress, but she had her wedding at WDW, it was one of the most beautiful weddings from the pictures.

Bethanymouse
03-17-2008, 07:43 PM
Thanks Murphy! I will have to check it out when I get a chance!

Bethanymouse
03-22-2008, 10:12 AM
Sorry I have not posted with any updates in awhile. It has been pretty crazy here. I was doing so well going to the gym everyday and then......I now have the flu. I am getting over it now. It was bronchial so I still cant get there. I am down 24 lbs now but I am sure about 2 of that is due to the illness, not a healthy way to lose weight.

Wedding planning has been at a standstill. We have been discussing wedding favors and are pretty sure we want to go with Godiva chocolates for everyone. I really like the idea of having a favor that people will use/eat. So many times you go to weddings and the favors get thrown out. What do you guys think? I will see if I can find a picture of some other ideas. Thanks for reading!:mickey:

Hull-onian
03-22-2008, 07:15 PM
Sorry I have not posted with any updates in awhile. It has been pretty crazy here. I was doing so well going to the gym everyday and then......I now have the flu. I am getting over it now. It was bronchial so I still cant get there. I am down 24 lbs now but I am sure about 2 of that is due to the illness, not a healthy way to lose weight.

Wedding planning has been at a standstill. We have been discussing wedding favors and are pretty sure we want to go with Godiva chocolates for everyone. I really like the idea of having a favor that people will use/eat. So many times you go to weddings and the favors get thrown out. What do you guys think? I will see if I can find a picture of some other ideas. Thanks for reading!:mickey:
Getting chocolates is a great idea. I did it for my daughters birthday party. We had Lindt Chocolate Truffles for everyone and they loved it.:thumbsup:

DizNee143
03-27-2008, 01:19 PM
Godiva chocolates sounds like a great idea for a wedding favor...
im getting married in sept..and we are doing the personalized m&ms and putting them in the half pint size of chinese food take out containers...:)
like you..i wanna give something that will actually be used...and who doesnt love m&ms/chocolate?? lol

Hull-onian
03-27-2008, 06:49 PM
Godiva chocolates sounds like a great idea for a wedding favor...
im getting married in sept..and we are doing the personalized m&ms and putting them in the half pint size of chinese food take out containers...:)
like you..i wanna give something that will actually be used...and who doesnt love m&ms/chocolate?? lol
Congratulations on your upcoming wedding. I know that planning that is involved, but M&M will make it even better. Great idea!!!:thumbsup:

Bethanymouse
03-28-2008, 11:31 PM
Getting chocolates is a great idea. I did it for my daughters birthday party. We had Lindt Chocolate Truffles for everyone and they loved it.:thumbsup:
How can you not love chocolate! How is the weight loss going?

Godiva chocolates sounds like a great idea for a wedding favor...
im getting married in sept..and we are doing the personalized m&ms and putting them in the half pint size of chinese food take out containers...:)
like you..i wanna give something that will actually be used...and who doesnt love m&ms/chocolate?? lol
Love the idea of the m&m's! I do love them, they are a weakness for me. Congrats on your upcoming wedding. I hope that you are having a great time planning it!



Sorry I have been MIA for a few days. I just got over the flu on top of bronchitis. Yesterday I returned to the gym and went again today. After being out a week from being sick its taking me some time to get back into the grind. I lost a ton of weight while I was sick, not a good way to lose.....but nonetheless, the numbers looked good. I expect them to rise a bit in the next few days because I am eating again.

Wedding stuff is on the horizon, meaning I hope to look up some more stuff this weekend. I just finished a huge research proposal that I have due for next week in stats class so now I can have some fun!

Anthony and I started planning our disney vacation this summer. We are waiting to see if free dining is released but doubt we will be able to take advantage of it. We hope to go down somewhere around August 4th and leave the 14th. We may play around with those dates depending on the situation. We are looking as some resturants now and making plans to do some site visits when we go down with the wedding planner.

Thanks so much for reading. I will try to post something more exicitng this weekend. :mickey:

bleukarma
04-03-2008, 11:58 AM
Bethany, I am having so much fun reading about your upcoming wedding! I can’t be of much help with the dresses since work doesn’t like pictures, but I’m still having much fun reading.

Congrats on the weight loss! I know it’s important. I am just a maid of honor in my best friends wedding in October and I am feeling the heat of losing weight! I can only imagine what an actual bride feels! Haha! so far so good with the weight loss. I walk around our lake at work on my 15min breaks and lunch breaks. My friend is putting my in a strapless dress (yikes!) so I need to both lose weight and get a tan. She is getting married on Sanibel Island if you want more info. :mickey:

Bethanymouse
04-03-2008, 09:09 PM
Bethany, I am having so much fun reading about your upcoming wedding! I can’t be of much help with the dresses since work doesn’t like pictures, but I’m still having much fun reading.

Congrats on the weight loss! I know it’s important. I am just a maid of honor in my best friends wedding in October and I am feeling the heat of losing weight! I can only imagine what an actual bride feels! Haha! so far so good with the weight loss. I walk around our lake at work on my 15min breaks and lunch breaks. My friend is putting my in a strapless dress (yikes!) so I need to both lose weight and get a tan. She is getting married on Sanibel Island if you want more info. :mickey:

Thanks so much for reading along. I really HATE strapless gowns and I am going to really try and avoid them for my girls. I have been uncomfortable in strapless many times. Best of luck with the wedding you are in. Sanibel is such a beautiful place. I am sure that the wedding is going to be gorgeous!

We havent done much more planning. We are planning a summer trip to meet the wedding coordinator and go on some site visits. The weight loss from being sick did come back, as expected, so I am down about 25 pounds at this point. It does seem like it is taking a long time but I am keeping positive. I am starting to get excited about looking at dresses, though I really dont want to try on anything until I lost about 30 more pounds so we will see!

I did find a possible hair style that I may like for the big day. I am not sure though. I may want to do my hair half up and half down. I have hair that is similiar in color to the picture below. Let me know what you think.....

Anyway, off to do some more disney planning for our upcoming trip. Hope you are all doing well! Thanks for reading!:mickey:

Hair (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=hair.jpg)

biodtl
04-04-2008, 10:08 AM
LOVE the hairstyle!

princessjojo
04-04-2008, 10:18 AM
Love the hair. It is great and so classic. Hope you're feeling top of the world again.

magicofdisney
04-04-2008, 06:15 PM
I've been following this thread and wish the best for all your planning.

My BIL just got married last October. My daughters were the flower girls. Dress #1's style is most like what they wore. We were able to order them from JC Penney and they were around $60. They were ecru in color. JC Penney has a fabulous selection if you're interested.

Because it was a fall wedding, she chose fall colors. Her BMs had the same dresses but with two different colors. One color was burnt orange and the other was a chocolate brown. The alternating colors coming down the isle were beautiful. GL with everything. I'll be following along to see the progress. BTW, the hair is a beautiful style.

Kairi_7378
04-05-2008, 10:56 AM
I'm so glad to hear that you are feeling better! I think that you are on the right track with the edible favors. They are the only ones that everyone seems to like. (We actually didn't do favors but were very tempted by the Godiva ones.)
You have such nice hair and I think your hair will look fantastic in that style. Are you trying out any new restaurants and things when you are on your August trip? will you still have plenty of time to enjoy the parks?

murphy1
04-05-2008, 08:28 PM
Buy Tan Towels!! They sell them on Ebay, they are awesome. I was always the blonde tan girl in Florida, and now I can safely have a tan ( I have my natural red hair now). They sell them on HSN too, they are so great!

Bethanymouse
04-06-2008, 03:46 PM
LOVE the hairstyle!
Thanks, I like it too, just not sure if I will do it all up like that!


Love the hair. It is great and so classic. Hope you're feeling top of the world again.
Thanks, I am feeling a lot better. I still have a little cough but I feel great compared to how I did feel.

I've been following this thread and wish the best for all your planning.

My BIL just got married last October. My daughters were the flower girls. Dress #1's style is most like what they wore. We were able to order them from JC Penney and they were around $60. They were ecru in color. JC Penney has a fabulous selection if you're interested.

Because it was a fall wedding, she chose fall colors. Her BMs had the same dresses but with two different colors. One color was burnt orange and the other was a chocolate brown. The alternating colors coming down the isle were beautiful. GL with everything. I'll be following along to see the progress. BTW, the hair is a beautiful style.
Thanks for the suggestions. We will definitely check out JCPenny's. I love that store. Also like the idea of alternating colors. It must have been so beautiful!


I'm so glad to hear that you are feeling better! I think that you are on the right track with the edible favors. They are the only ones that everyone seems to like. (We actually didn't do favors but were very tempted by the Godiva ones.)
You have such nice hair and I think your hair will look fantastic in that style. Are you trying out any new restaurants and things when you are on your August trip? will you still have plenty of time to enjoy the parks?
I think that the godiva ones will be a hit and people can enjoy them. After all, who doesnt love chocolate right?
Thanks for the compliment about my hair. My hair is actually a pain because it get so wavy if it isnt straightened and forget about it if there is humidity. So that might be a challenge on the day of the wedding. I havent seen many other hairstyles that i like.


Buy Tan Towels!! They sell them on Ebay, they are awesome. I was always the blonde tan girl in Florida, and now I can safely have a tan ( I have my natural red hair now). They sell them on HSN too, they are so great!
I have never even heard of them. That might be a nice alternative to tanning beds, which I have never tried. Thanks for the suggestion.

Thanks everyone for reading. I am starting to get back into the groove of planning again. It is a busy time of the semester so as that winds down hopefully I can have some wedding fun. My matron of honor is coming back to NJ for a visit on June 30 and staying most of the summer so I am very excited and I am sure things will really take off then! Anthony and I hope to book our disney vacation sometime this week and then book a day with the wedding planner! We are hoping to try some new resturants this time. We will see how that goes.

Other than that I have been busy at the gym. with work, and with school. Anthony and I have looked at a few houses and the market is in our favor but we cant put in an offer until Anthony gets hired full time for teaching. Keep your fingers crossed for us and any extra pixie dust wouldnt hurt either! Thanks again everyone! :mickey:

Bethanymouse
04-12-2008, 07:43 PM
Hello! Just out searching around online and found some dresses I thought were cute....what do you think?

Wedding gown 1 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=weddingdress12.jpg)

wedding dress 1 back (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=weddingdress12back.jpg)

dress 2 front (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=weddingdress9.jpg)

dress 2 back (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=weddingdress9back.jpg)

dress 3 front (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=weddingdress11.jpg)

dress 3 back (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/disney%20world%20wedding%20ideas/?action=view&current=weddingdress11back.jpg)

Thoughts?

princessjojo
04-12-2008, 07:59 PM
I may be the odd man out here, but I think dress #1 is my favorite.

I just love the simplicity and the classic look about it. It's a beautiful dress, but not so much so that it says "look at Me" but allows you to wear it and have everyone say "WOW, look at her in that marvelous dress. Does that make sense? I think the sleeves look more comfortable as well. I really like #2, but the sleeves look like they would be maybe uncomfortable, feeling like they would always be sliding down or off the shoulder.

In any dress you choose, you will make a beautiful bride.

biodtl
04-13-2008, 12:30 PM
I like #1 the best - it's beautiful, but looks flattering and comfortable. It's a classic style that would look pretty on anyone.

I am enjoying this so much, Bethany! I love weddings, but all my friends are LONG since married (some of them have kids that will be getting married next, lol), so this is so much fun. Thanks for including us.

Bethanymouse
04-13-2008, 05:36 PM
I may be the odd man out here, but I think dress #1 is my favorite.

I just love the simplicity and the classic look about it. It's a beautiful dress, but not so much so that it says "look at Me" but allows you to wear it and have everyone say "WOW, look at her in that marvelous dress. Does that make sense? I think the sleeves look more comfortable as well. I really like #2, but the sleeves look like they would be maybe uncomfortable, feeling like they would always be sliding down or off the shoulder.

In any dress you choose, you will make a beautiful bride.
Thank you so much! I like dress number one too, I just dont want to look too matronly. I will have to check it out when it is time to try on the gowns. I can see how the other sleeves may seem annoying...or even a itchy? Thanks for your input!


I like #1 the best - it's beautiful, but looks flattering and comfortable. It's a classic style that would look pretty on anyone.

I am enjoying this so much, Bethany! I love weddings, but all my friends are LONG since married (some of them have kids that will be getting married next, lol), so this is so much fun. Thanks for including us.
Thanks! I think it is classic too. Which is what I am going for. I dont want to look dated in 20 years, just classy and elegant. Thanks so much for reading. i am enjoying sharing this with all of you! You all help make me excited for the big day! :mickey:

biodtl
04-13-2008, 08:03 PM
Thank you so much! I like dress number one too, I just dont want to look too matronly.
It's definitely not matronly.

murphy1
04-14-2008, 10:04 AM
Love the hairstyle you posted!! Very classic, and love the how it is swirly up. I am enjoying this thread.

Kairi_7378
04-14-2008, 12:51 PM
I like dress 1 too... love the sleeves! I like that it isn't a big puffy dress, just very classy looking. I don't think it looks matronly (although the model kinda does! I think it is her expression.) It will also go great with that hairstyle you had posted. (It is funny that you find your hair difficult to deal with because it is wavy... I say that about mine and it is very straight.) The third dress looks like it might be a little heavy for Florida (looks like there are a few layers to the dress.)

magicofdisney
04-14-2008, 01:09 PM
I can see how the other sleeves may seem annoying...or even a itchy?

That was my exact thought when I saw those dresses. They're all beautiful dresses and would be wonderful but comfort should be a priority.

Bethanymouse
04-18-2008, 12:19 AM
Love the hairstyle you posted!! Very classic, and love the how it is swirly up. I am enjoying this thread.
Thanks so much for reading!

It's definitely not matronly.
Thanks for the confidence. I think I will try some on like it when its time.

I like dress 1 too... love the sleeves! I like that it isn't a big puffy dress, just very classy looking. I don't think it looks matronly (although the model kinda does! I think it is her expression.) It will also go great with that hairstyle you had posted. (It is funny that you find your hair difficult to deal with because it is wavy... I say that about mine and it is very straight.) The third dress looks like it might be a little heavy for Florida (looks like there are a few layers to the dress.)
I do like the princessy dresses though....one of my downfalls with the Florida heat. I will have to check them out. Thanks for reading!

That was my exact thought when I saw those dresses. They're all beautiful dresses and would be wonderful but comfort should be a priority.

I agree with that! I will try some on and see how they feel. I dont want to be itchy, espcecially in the Florida heat!


Sorry I have been missing for a few days. This morning I had to have surgery on my face to remove a mole that had a lump under it. Pixie dust please!!! The lump is being biopsyed and I get the results Tuesday. The surgery was ok, I am in some pain now but taking some medicine. I cant talk until Wednesday when the stitches come out. Also, limited eating until then, only liquids. Should help with the diet right? It was a scary thing, I was awake for the surgery cause I hate "going under". I am still not in the greatest shape but hopefully I can relax for the next few days and get back into some fun wedding planning. Thanks so much for reading and sharing this with me!:mickey:

PirateLover
04-18-2008, 01:23 AM
Just got a chance to check out your dresses and I actually smiled when I saw them, because I think we have very similar tastes! I love dresses with little cap sleeves. It seems like everyone these days has the strapless "sweetheart" neckline, and sorry, but from what I've seen it doesn't flatter many of the body types who choose (or in some cases forced) to wear it.
(ETA I just read about your friends being forced to lose weight to look good in strapless dresses for other people's weddings. I just can't stand that. If I know my girls won't be comfortable the way they are TODAY in the dress that I've chosen, then it's back to the drawing board!)

I really like both 1 and 2 with 2 probably being my favorite. I just love a classy and classic look if you know what I mean. You will never look back on these kind of dresses in 20 years and regret your choice. I think what it will come down to is where you are in your workout and which one is going to be most flattering to your form. Good luck!

PirateLover
04-18-2008, 01:32 AM
Just went back a bit further in the thread and read about hairstyle. I think it's really hard to pick until you know what your veil is going to be like. Some veils (Like ones with crowns) pretty much require an updo or they just don't look right. Your picture is perfect for that. Personally though I think that half up half down or even all down in loose, flowy curls is absolutely gorgeous. I remember seeing pictured of Jessica Simpson when she married Nick Lachey. She had is sort of half pulled back with some pieces in the front. Here is a picture (http://www.curly-hair-styles-magazine.com/images/jessica-simpsons-wedding-day-hair-01.jpg)
If you google more pics you can see how it really suits her face and her dress and veil. Oh and she is definitely one of the few people who can flawlessly work that sweetheart neckline, lol!

biodtl
04-18-2008, 07:39 PM
Sorry I have been missing for a few days. This morning I had to have surgery on my face to remove a mole that had a lump under it. Pixie dust please!!! The lump is being biopsyed and I get the results Tuesday. The surgery was ok, I am in some pain now but taking some medicine.
I'm sending good thoughts your way that all will be fine and you wil feel better soon!


I cant talk until Wednesday when the stitches come out.
You poor thing! I don't know how much of a talker you are, but I would have to be sedated the entire time. Or maybe completely put under. Seriously.

princessjojo
04-18-2008, 07:50 PM
Sorry I have been missing for a few days. This morning I had to have surgery on my face to remove a mole that had a lump under it. Pixie dust please!!! The lump is being biopsyed and I get the results Tuesday. :mickey:
I'm so sorry to hear that. :hug: and :pixie: that you will be back to yourself real soon. I will say a special prayer for you tonight that all of your results will come back with only good results.

thrillme
04-18-2008, 11:05 PM
Oh my...Lots of pixie dust that all will be fine soon.

You know I thought about you the other night when we were watching Flubber (it's one of our family favorite movies). The bride (Sarah) had a really pretty dress that looked sorta like the ones you've been looking at. They're all very pretty.

bleukarma
04-24-2008, 02:36 PM
It's been awhile since I have checked in...I hope the surgery went ok! Pixie dust coming for both the surgery and the wedding planning.

Me and my best friend went to David's Bridal and she got a pretty dress! She also picked out the dress for me and her one other brides maid (she is having a small wedding) and its really pretty. I'm actually looking forward to going strapless, even though I have never done it before. It will be fun to work the new weight loss body in the strapless dress!! Her colors have changed a few times though, so we haven't ordered the dresses yet. She gave me the assignment of the wedding cake and I've been going around getting prices today. I didn't realize they were that pricey!

Anyway, good luck to your planning and on the surgery recovery!! :mickey:

Bethanymouse
04-27-2008, 12:20 PM
Just got a chance to check out your dresses and I actually smiled when I saw them, because I think we have very similar tastes! I love dresses with little cap sleeves. It seems like everyone these days has the strapless "sweetheart" neckline, and sorry, but from what I've seen it doesn't flatter many of the body types who choose (or in some cases forced) to wear it.
(ETA I just read about your friends being forced to lose weight to look good in strapless dresses for other people's weddings. I just can't stand that. If I know my girls won't be comfortable the way they are TODAY in the dress that I've chosen, then it's back to the drawing board!)

I really like both 1 and 2 with 2 probably being my favorite. I just love a classy and classic look if you know what I mean. You will never look back on these kind of dresses in 20 years and regret your choice. I think what it will come down to is where you are in your workout and which one is going to be most flattering to your form. Good luck!
Thanks so much for reading. I agree with you on the classy look. I think so many times girls go with the fad, which is very tempting but will look dated in a few years. That is what I am trying to aviod. Looking forward to returning to the gym in the next few weeks. For now I am out due to the surgery whichi s really really frustrating!

Just went back a bit further in the thread and read about hairstyle. I think it's really hard to pick until you know what your veil is going to be like. Some veils (Like ones with crowns) pretty much require an updo or they just don't look right. Your picture is perfect for that. Personally though I think that half up half down or even all down in loose, flowy curls is absolutely gorgeous. I remember seeing pictured of Jessica Simpson when she married Nick Lachey. She had is sort of half pulled back with some pieces in the front. Here is a picture (http://www.curly-hair-styles-magazine.com/images/jessica-simpsons-wedding-day-hair-01.jpg)
If you google more pics you can see how it really suits her face and her dress and veil. Oh and she is definitely one of the few people who can flawlessly work that sweetheart neckline, lol!
Jessica Simpson did look gorgous didnt she! She can definitely pull off that neckline! I agree with you about the hair. I am going to have to wait to see the dress and the veil before making a decision. I think I will go for half up half down though.

I'm sending good thoughts your way that all will be fine and you wil feel better soon!


You poor thing! I don't know how much of a talker you are, but I would have to be sedated the entire time. Or maybe completely put under. Seriously.
I am a talker! Thanks for the pixie dust. Thank God I was able to talk a bit. But still no laughing, that is the tough part!


I'm so sorry to hear that. :hug: and :pixie: that you will be back to yourself real soon. I will say a special prayer for you tonight that all of your results will come back with only good results.
Results are back and I am cancer free. Thank God for that. I can suffer through the pain with results like that. Thanks for thinking of me!

Oh my...Lots of pixie dust that all will be fine soon.

You know I thought about you the other night when we were watching Flubber (it's one of our family favorite movies). The bride (Sarah) had a really pretty dress that looked sorta like the ones you've been looking at. They're all very pretty.
Thanks for the pixie dust! I will have to google that dress. I am always interested to see what dresses look like! Thanks for the thoughts of me!

It's been awhile since I have checked in...I hope the surgery went ok! Pixie dust coming for both the surgery and the wedding planning.

Me and my best friend went to David's Bridal and she got a pretty dress! She also picked out the dress for me and her one other brides maid (she is having a small wedding) and its really pretty. I'm actually looking forward to going strapless, even though I have never done it before. It will be fun to work the new weight loss body in the strapless dress!! Her colors have changed a few times though, so we haven't ordered the dresses yet. She gave me the assignment of the wedding cake and I've been going around getting prices today. I didn't realize they were that pricey!

Anyway, good luck to your planning and on the surgery recovery!! :mickey:

Thanks for checking in! I am glad to hear you had so much fun in David's bridal. Dress shopping can go one of two ways, glad to hear it was fun! It sounds like you are a big help to your friend, good for you, it is so important! Yes, wedding cakes are expensive, and what is interesting is that they arent ever really that delicious. Guess you pay for the fact that it is a "wedding" cake. Best of luck helping her plan and thanks for reading!

Bethanymouse
04-27-2008, 12:27 PM
Thank you so much for reading everyone. The stitches are out from the surgery but I am all bandaged up. Biopsy results came back negative so for that I am grateful. Thanks for your well wishes and pixie dust. I am still limited on laughing and smiling because it hurts and he doesnt want me moving my face to much. That is the hardest part. Also, no gym for another two weeks. That is just about killing me because its the only way for me to keep losing the weight. I am trying to be even stricter on the diet but the exercise did so much more than just help me lose the weight, it was starting to balence me and was my stress reliever. I am looking forward to returning soon.

On a positive note my parents took me to look at wedding gowns after I got my stitches out. It was a spur of the moment thing since we passed a bridal shop. It was a lot of fun looking and hearing suggestions from the lady at the shop at which shape would fit me best. There are a lot of couture dresses out now, very fashionista like which isnt my style. My mom found one that we absolutely loved but it was almost 4 grand, way too much money in my opinion. I didnt try any on, still hoping to drop another 30-40 lbs. Probably by July or August I will be ready to start trying even if I am not down as much weight.

I also emailed our wedding coordinator about a visit in August when we have our trip. We would like to go on our site tour to see the ballrooms in the Grand Floridian and the wedding pavillion. Very exciting! We have to pick one of our dates and let her know. I will take lots of pictures to share and hear feedback when that time comes. Thanks so much for reading. I have been around on intercot for the last few days just reading, not posting too much trying to keep my sanity with this no talking! I will post more soon. Thanks again!!!!:mickey::cloud9::mickey:

princessimagineer
05-08-2008, 05:15 PM
okay , i posted like earlyer on in the thread just to say "hi, i know of your college, and im excited for you" and havnt posted since, so now after reading everything, heres my oppinion:

flower girl dress 7.

brides maid dress 3, the short one, think of florida heat, theyll be thankfull for that shortness.

dresses. either 1 or 2. not crazy about 3. though i like 1, there is something elegant about 2.

hair: LOVE. i picture the veil coming out from underneath it. just a thought

sorry i didnt post sooner. good luck with the rest of the planning. im sure everything will come out perfect!

Figment104
05-15-2008, 12:40 PM
First off I just have to say :congrats:!!!!!!

I got married just under a year ago so I have some idea of what your going through. Also congrats on the weight loss, I actually signed up to do WW just last month if your on their boards at all I'm kristina104.

Sorry if this sounds really rushed or like I'm just spitting out information but I found your post yesterday and read through the entire thing in one sitting all the while taking notes on many of the different areas that you asked for opinions.

I have to say that for the Flower Girl dresses if you haven't already picked one I absoutly love #7 and I'm sure she'd feel like a princess (I know I would have). However, another idea would be a dress like FG Dress #1 and then the ribbon that goes around the waist either take it off and put one on that matches the color of your bridesmaid dresses or your flowers or something like that or if it can't be removed you should be able to tack it right over top. We ended up doing something like that for my flowergirl and it turned out just beautiful. If I can find a pic of it I'll post it later so you have a better idea of what I'm talking about.

Regarding the bridesmaid dresses I have to say that I agree with you that dress 2 does make them look pregnant. I really like dress 3 but I understand the concern with the top. You may be able to have them build cups in or something along those lines to make it a bit more secure for the more busty women in your party. I know most of my bridesmaids had that done and they just loved it.

All three of the wedding dresses that you posted are beautiful. I have to admit that I think I'm going to be in the minority just from reading the other posts but I love dress 3. Keep in mind this is coming from someone who had the big poofy (sp) dress with crystals all over the bodice :cool: however that's what I wanted and it was the first dress I tried on. Granted I tried on tons more just to be sure ranging all the way up to probably $6,000 (mostly just so I could say I had on a $6,000 dress) :secret: Really though when you try on the dress that's right for you you'll know it in a second. It'll just feel right and you'll feel like a princess in it. Out of the other two dresses I would say I like dress 2 more than dress 1, it just has a more elegant feel to me.

Ok I think that just about sums it up for me, agian sorry if it seems as though I'm just spitting out opinions, not my intention. I'm sure no matter what you plan it'll be the most wonderful day for you, plus you're at Disney, how much better can it get!!!! :mickey:

Love the cake topper by the way it's too cute!

Congratulations again!:pixie:

Bethanymouse
05-18-2008, 11:50 AM
okay , i posted like earlyer on in the thread just to say "hi, i know of your college, and im excited for you" and havnt posted since, so now after reading everything, heres my oppinion:

flower girl dress 7.

brides maid dress 3, the short one, think of florida heat, theyll be thankfull for that shortness.

dresses. either 1 or 2. not crazy about 3. though i like 1, there is something elegant about 2.

hair: LOVE. i picture the veil coming out from underneath it. just a thought

sorry i didnt post sooner. good luck with the rest of the planning. im sure everything will come out perfect!
Thanks for your input! I do like the hair a lot, but I might want it half up half down. I cant seem to find any pictures of what I want though! Thanks so much for reading!


First off I just have to say :congrats:!!!!!!

I got married just under a year ago so I have some idea of what your going through. Also congrats on the weight loss, I actually signed up to do WW just last month if your on their boards at all I'm kristina104.

Sorry if this sounds really rushed or like I'm just spitting out information but I found your post yesterday and read through the entire thing in one sitting all the while taking notes on many of the different areas that you asked for opinions.

I have to say that for the Flower Girl dresses if you haven't already picked one I absoutly love #7 and I'm sure she'd feel like a princess (I know I would have). However, another idea would be a dress like FG Dress #1 and then the ribbon that goes around the waist either take it off and put one on that matches the color of your bridesmaid dresses or your flowers or something like that or if it can't be removed you should be able to tack it right over top. We ended up doing something like that for my flowergirl and it turned out just beautiful. If I can find a pic of it I'll post it later so you have a better idea of what I'm talking about.

Regarding the bridesmaid dresses I have to say that I agree with you that dress 2 does make them look pregnant. I really like dress 3 but I understand the concern with the top. You may be able to have them build cups in or something along those lines to make it a bit more secure for the more busty women in your party. I know most of my bridesmaids had that done and they just loved it.

All three of the wedding dresses that you posted are beautiful. I have to admit that I think I'm going to be in the minority just from reading the other posts but I love dress 3. Keep in mind this is coming from someone who had the big poofy (sp) dress with crystals all over the bodice :cool: however that's what I wanted and it was the first dress I tried on. Granted I tried on tons more just to be sure ranging all the way up to probably $6,000 (mostly just so I could say I had on a $6,000 dress) :secret: Really though when you try on the dress that's right for you you'll know it in a second. It'll just feel right and you'll feel like a princess in it. Out of the other two dresses I would say I like dress 2 more than dress 1, it just has a more elegant feel to me.

Ok I think that just about sums it up for me, agian sorry if it seems as though I'm just spitting out opinions, not my intention. I'm sure no matter what you plan it'll be the most wonderful day for you, plus you're at Disney, how much better can it get!!!! :mickey:

Love the cake topper by the way it's too cute!

Congratulations again!:pixie:
Thank you so much for all of your input! I love hearing what everyone has to say. Tell me about your wedding? What did you do that you loved and what would you never do again? I agree about the bridesmaids, I want them to feel comfortable and be happy. They are doing to much for me by flying down there and being with me on my special day.

I appreciate any advice you have! Thanks for reading!

Bethanymouse
05-18-2008, 12:05 PM
Sorry I have been MIA for a few days. I just finished up my last week of school for the spring semester and now I am preparing for the first summer session of Psychopharmacology. In the meantime, Anthony and I attended a wedding of a friend yesterday. We had a really nice time. It is a different point of view for me right now- I look at all the details!

I scheduled a meeting to look at our venue choices and meet with the wedding Coordinator Pam on August 6th. We are very excited. I am going to also try and contact Rev. Jack Day for our officiant and try to meet with him. I think we have a photographer selected, Randy Chapman so once we meet with him hopefully we can book him. He is pretty popular, so I want to book him asap! Hopefully I will have more info to post soon. Thanks for reading!

tyandskyesmom
05-19-2008, 03:43 PM
I'm a little late joining in here but thought I'd throw my 2 cents in too...

I love Flower Girl dress #2 with Bride's maid dress #1 (you might even be able to add straps for a little support without changing the whole feel of the dress if needed) and I think both of them would tie in wonderfully with the style of wedding dress #1. I'm thinking sort of renassance looking. Like renassance princesses...think Camelot or Narnia -ish.

For hair, your flower girl could leave her hair down with flowers in it to match yours...as could the brides maids and you or, as you were saying, you could do sort of half up dos with long wispy curls hanging all over...bridges maids with flowers and you with a great crown.

I thought those went the best together. There were some other flower girl dresses I liked (#6 and 7) but I did ot think they went well enough together with the pics of the brides maids dresses or the ones for you.

Just my opinion...I am so jealous! Believe it or not, my 9 year old son wants a Disney wedding...the frilly little princess loving, flowery twirling dress loving, in love with "love" and enthralled by kissing little 4 year old sister however has not been quite so decisive yet!

mouseketeer mom
05-20-2008, 07:13 AM
HI!
I just read this whole thread over my morning coffee. I'm in northern NJ too!
I'm getting so excited with your planning! I love dress #1 for you, it is elegant and simple. You have the most magical backdrop in the world so you almost can't go wrong with the choices you have to make. Thanks for sharing, and I'm on board with this thread now!

showmethemouse
05-20-2008, 10:52 AM
cangradulations! I agree dress#1 :mickey:

jrkcr
05-20-2008, 12:37 PM
This is so fun to read!!
Just my :twocents: but I like flower girl dress #4, and wedding gown #1.
And I LOVE the hair style! In July heat, you may want all your hair up like this!!

Bethanymouse
05-31-2008, 10:33 PM
Thanks so much for all of your replies. Sorry I have been MIA for some time. I just started my summer courses and working full time, taking 4 night classes is crazy!!! :crazy:

Last Monday my mom talked me into going into David's Bridal to check out dresses for the girls. She tricked me! We actually looked for me, which I wasnt ready for yet since I want to lose about 20 more lbs but we did it anyway.

I tried on 4 gowns. The first gown was all lace. I really liked it in the book, then when she brought it over I thought it might be too lacy. My mom told me to try it anyway and I did, it looked beautiful. I really loved it! I tried on three others, the other one I really liked was an Oleg Cassini. It was so pretty, very Cinderella like. I liked it a lot. The other two werent so great, one was very matronly and the other just too poofy. My mom took some pics with her phone so I will see if I can load them on the computer. It was a really fun experience, but it also helped me see what areas I still need to work on at the gym.

Speaking of the gym, I am officially addicted to the elliptical machine. That thing burns calories so quick. I love it! I am down 34 lbs. I am starting to get a bit frustrated with the scale because its not moving much but my clothes are getting bigger. I am down 2 sizes which makes me ecstatic! I think the weight is shifting now. The guy at the gym said I am gaining muscle :strong: thats why the scale isnt moving. He encouraged me to measure inches, but c'mon ladies, dontcha like seeing that scale move?

I also picked up some fun stuff for the kid's welcome bags. We have three kids in the wedding party. Two ring bearers and a flowergirl. My two cousins are also really excited to come, they are 7 so I am making them a mini bag. The disney store by us is closing :(, very sad, so they were having a sale. I picked up some kids sunglasses, washclothes, and those great cups with the straws. I went online and got beach towels for all the kids and my girls. Disney ones, for 5.00! I was super excited:mjump:. I figure if I do all this slowly, I wont feel the pinch as much.

I think that is it for now, I will see if I can find those pictures. Thanks for reading!:mickey:

Kairi_7378
06-02-2008, 01:46 PM
4 night classes? My goodness!

Sneaky Mom!!! I'm glad that you had a good time looking at dresses. Oleg Cassini makes some fantastic dresses for David's! Did you manage to find something for the bridesmaids too?

I love the elliptical machine too! It seems like the most efficient machine in the gym... who can argue with that?

It's really sad that a lot of the Disney stores are closing but I'm glad you were able to use it to your advantage to get some stuff for your bridal party. You have a really good idea by buying the odds and ends as you go along. Not only will you feel "the pinch" less, but you will have less to worry about as the wedding date approaches.

magicofdisney
06-02-2008, 07:01 PM
Speaking of the gym, I am officially addicted to the elliptical machine. That thing burns calories so quick. I love it! I am down 34 lbs. I am starting to get a bit frustrated with the scale because its not moving much but my clothes are getting bigger. I am down 2 sizes which makes me ecstatic! I think the weight is shifting now. The guy at the gym said I am gaining muscle :strong: thats why the scale isnt moving. He encouraged me to measure inches, but c'mon ladies, dontcha like seeing that scale move?
We moved into a new, 2 story home last year. After a couple of months I started noticing my clothes were much looser around the hips. I wasn't trying to loose weight but the loss of inches excited me and eventually the weight did start dropping. But like you, it took a while for the scale to catch up with the inches.

Congratulations on the 34lbs! That's fantastic. :thumbsup:

DisneyLove
06-03-2008, 11:45 AM
Hi Bethany!

I've loved reading your thread! Congratulations on the wedding!! I've always dreamed of getting married at WDW and hope someday that I can. Congratulations on the weight loss and being so dedicated about the gym- that's incredible! You're an inspiration to me to get my butt in gear! Anyway, I wanted to respond about trying on dresses that may not be something you initially like or would normally pick out. When I was shopping for my graduation dress (we had to wear all white dresses and it's difficult to find something in between a wedding dress and a sundress), I had stated absolutely no lace or strapless. Well, my mom and I were at a store and she picked up an all-lace strapless, t-length dress. I said "NO WAY! I don't want lace or strapless!!" She made me try it on, and it was perfect!! I LOVED it and felt amazing in it! So, just my 2 cents- be open to trying on different things- you may be surprised at what you like and what makes you feel amazing! Good luck- I look forward to continue reading!

Katie :thumbsup:

mouseketeer mom
06-04-2008, 07:33 AM
Yes, that always amazes me. Things that don't look appealing on the hanger can look terrific when you try them on:confused:! Doesn't it feel amazing to put on a wedding gown? You can't help but feel like a princess! I'm married 16 1/2 years now, and still remember what it feels like to put on that dress! I had a mermaid style dress which was all the rage "back then"!
That's neat you're picking things up for the kids already. It's all those little details that add up, so you'll feel better getting as many little things done as you can.
Hoping to see some wedding dresses soon!
Congrats on your weight loss!:thumbsup:

Bethanymouse
06-13-2008, 10:14 PM
Thanks for all of your input and thoughts. It has been awhile since I have written. I am very overwhelmed with work and school. There just isnt enough time in a day. Let me update everyone the best I can.

Last weekend my mom and I had a pampered chef house party. It was a lot of fun and it was very successful. Because of everyone's generousity I get to pick out some great kitchen items for free and at half price. Any recommendations pampered chef fans? I went and registered for some more things at Bed Bath and Beyond. The registry is a really hard thing for me. I feel bad asking people to buy things for me, and because of this it takes me forever to pick out simple things. Anthony is very good about helping me make a decision. he is often the voice of reason to my hysteria in the store:drama:.

Besides the registry, which I know is supposed to be fun, but stresses me out, we are looking to start putting together more and more information. My mom booked a day for me to try on more gowns tomorrow at a local bridal store. I still dont love my body, or feel it is up to par yet, but she talked me into it, and is trying to convince me it will be fun:covered::unsure::covered:, but I am not so sure. We are going to take some pictures so if they turn out ok, perhaps I will post some.

I am down about 40 lbs now. I still have a lot more work to do. This schedule makes it even harder, I cant usually get to the gym more than 2 days a week right now, but the end is in sight. Next week is my last week of work, so then I can go during the day as I like. I cant wait for that.

Anyway, thanks for reading. I appreciate all of your kind wishes and input. Just having you all supporting me makes this fun and less stressful! Wish me luck trying on these gowns tomorrow :scale:. :mickey:

mouseketeer mom
06-14-2008, 09:01 AM
Wow! 40 lbs is sooo much! What is that, 3 or 4 sizes?? Good for YOU!!!!:thumbsup: Go try those gowns! It will keep you motivated! Remember, this can be fun! There isn't pressure yet to "choose that gown" . You still have time, so enjoy the gown trying on..I bet you'll be much closer to knowing what kind of gown you feel best in after you try more on with your Mom. Let us know!

Bethanymouse
06-14-2008, 10:55 AM
Thanks for the encouragement! We are leaving in about 5 minutes, I had to get my intercot fix before we leave. I am down 2 sizes, not yet 3. I started at a 16. I am down to a 12 now. Hopefully a 10 by the end of the summer! I will take some pics and hopefully will be able to share! Thanks for reading!:mickey:

WDWFanatic
06-14-2008, 11:25 AM
What a great post! Congratulations on your weight loss. Keep up the good work and don't stress too much (I know easier said than done).

Thank you very much for letting all of us share in your planning.

RocknBev
06-14-2008, 03:36 PM
Wow! What a read! Congratulations on your engagement! :joy:
Congratulations on your Disney wedding planning! :mickey3::minnie:
And Congratulations on your weight loss!:trampo:
I am also doing WW and have been stuck for the last couple of months at 25 lbs loss. I haven't been trying very hard but you have given me the kick in the butt that I needed...but enough about me!
YOU GO GIRL!!!
As for the dress....I hope that when you were at the bridal shop today, you tried on all the dress you wanted to as well as the ones the lady of the shop suggested. A good bridal shop can usually match your taste with what looks good for your body for the perfect dress without it costing 4k unless you want to spend that kind of money. And regardless of whether you lose another pound, you will look beautiful...and if you do lose more...that's what they do alterations for!
I also love the cake-topper!
Keep up the good work on your WDW wedding plans.
BTW...we hire a lot of teachers in Atlanta and we have great housing cost and we are closer to the magic....just a thought.

Bethanymouse
06-14-2008, 07:34 PM
What a great post! Congratulations on your weight loss. Keep up the good work and don't stress too much (I know easier said than done).

Thank you very much for letting all of us share in your planning.

Thanks so much! I love sharing with all of you!


Wow! What a read! Congratulations on your engagement! :joy:
Congratulations on your Disney wedding planning! :mickey3::minnie:
And Congratulations on your weight loss!:trampo:
I am also doing WW and have been stuck for the last couple of months at 25 lbs loss. I haven't been trying very hard but you have given me the kick in the butt that I needed...but enough about me!
YOU GO GIRL!!!
As for the dress....I hope that when you were at the bridal shop today, you tried on all the dress you wanted to as well as the ones the lady of the shop suggested. A good bridal shop can usually match your taste with what looks good for your body for the perfect dress without it costing 4k unless you want to spend that kind of money. And regardless of whether you lose another pound, you will look beautiful...and if you do lose more...that's what they do alterations for!
I also love the cake-topper!
Keep up the good work on your WDW wedding plans.
BTW...we hire a lot of teachers in Atlanta and we have great housing cost and we are closer to the magic....just a thought.

Congrats on the weight loss, dont shrug it off, 25 lbs is a great loss! Thanks for the advice on the gown. I actually had a nice time today and tried on a lot. I will write more about that later. You are so funny about moving to Atlanta- we have thought about a geographical change, but we dont want to leave our families yet! But being closer to the magic sure is tempting! Thanks so much for reading!

We just got home, so I am off to study my Psychopharmacology stuff for a huge exam on Monday! Wish me luck! I have uploaded the pictures and will post them sometime tonight or tomorrow! Thanks for reading!:mickey:

Bethanymouse
06-16-2008, 11:44 AM
Ok here are some of the gowns I tried on. Please ignore my face in most of them as I was not ready for the pics. So many people were asking me questions that I was not smiling in the pictures! Please tell me your honest opinions.....THanks!

Gown try on number 1 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Gown%20Try%20on/?action=view&current=DSC02116.jpg). This gown was selected by the woman at the dress shop. My best friend really loved this one when she saw the picture. I am not as sure, I felt it was a little too busy for me.

This one was my absolute favorite gown of the day. It was on another girl when I walked into the shop and told the lady I would like to try it on. After many other gowns, she finally got me this one and I really liked it. What do you think? Gown 2http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Gown%20Try%20on/?action=view&current=DSC02118.jpg
This is the detail (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Gown%20Try%20on/?action=view&current=DSC02117.jpg) on the train. On the hanger (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Gown%20Try%20on/?action=view&current=DSC02127.jpg).

Seriously ignore my face in this one. It makes me laugh just looking at it! I was not a huge fan of this dress after I got it on. The lady picked this one. I felt like it made me look heavier and drew attention to my arms. Gown 3 (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Gown%20Try%20on/?action=view&current=DSC02125.jpg).

Alright, there are some more coming later on today or tomorrow. I have to go and keep studying for this Psychopharmacology midterm. Thanks for reading!:D

meldan98
06-16-2008, 01:02 PM
I've been enjoying your posts for some time now, and I have to say, I love the first dress. What I really loved about it is the lower waist line. I think it creates a beautiful silouette. You may want to look at the picture and then cover the 2nd and 3rd layer with your hand and see if that makes a difference.

magicofdisney
06-16-2008, 07:38 PM
I loved #2 the best. It seemed more slimming but that could have been because of the angle. But they're all so beautiful so I don't envy you needing to choose (well, it's not really that bad because you deciding on a wedding gown ;)).

mouseketeer mom
06-17-2008, 07:18 AM
I loved gown number one on you. You look like a Princess! :princess: #2 would be my second choice, and #3, well, I just don't love it. You look so happy in the gowns!! Isn't it fun??:cloud9:

murphy1
06-17-2008, 10:48 AM
You're going to be a beautiful bride!! Good luck on deciding! (I had surgery so I've been away for a bit).

WDWFanatic
06-17-2008, 11:02 AM
I liked #1 best, the cut of it looked really great on you, but it really matters on which one YOU like and feel the best in. You will look great in any of them.

Good luck on your midterm! Hope you ace it.

SBETigg
06-17-2008, 11:22 AM
Your mom's second favorite was my favorite. I saw it and I thought that was the dress. It's gorgeous on you! But they're all lovely and you'll know the right one when you put it on. You look great, by the way! The hard work has paid off. I'm so excited for you!

biodtl
06-17-2008, 01:33 PM
I loved #1 on you. It's very flattering. but I also liked #2. And some others from your album. So basically, I am no help at all.

Bethanymouse
06-17-2008, 08:57 PM
Thanks so much for your replies! I have more pics to post, but I will probably not get to it until later this week. I am so tired after that horrible midterm. My body is actually aching tonight, so I am going to go and rest. Thanks for reading, I really appreciate your input!

Queen Stephanie
06-18-2008, 12:17 AM
Please! I live for stuff like this! Can't wait to get started!

bleukarma
06-18-2008, 10:31 AM
Sounds like you are doing awesome with the gym! Congrats!! Thats great!!

As far as the 3 gowns posted before, I was about to not even look at #1 and #3 because I can tell that you really liked #2. It's how you like it and how you feel in it that matters. With that being said, my favorite was #1. But if you aren't 100% happy in it then it's not the gown for you.

Sounds like everything is coming together despite your busy life. I love reading about it!!

RedSoxFan
06-18-2008, 04:03 PM
I just started reading this post -- started this morning and finally finished. I love the cake topper -- it's just so cute. I love wedding gown #1 -- absolutely gorgeous. I'm glad I found the post -- it's been enjoyable reading all about your wedding planning. Best wishes.

RocknBev
06-18-2008, 06:37 PM
My favorite is #1 but it is really not about me is it? You have to pick the one you like!
By the way....you look great! Great job on your weight loss!

Bethanymouse
06-18-2008, 09:47 PM
Thanks so much for your well wishes and your input. I finally got to go to the gym today, after a week of no gym, my body was actually starting to ache (or at least that is what I thought it was from!). Work ends for me on Friday and then I only have to worry about summer psychological testing for certain cases and grad school until July 2nd. I am super excited to catch up on fun reading and surf intercot!:D

Here are some more of the dresses from last weekend. We really did have a fun time.

This gown (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Gown%20Try%20on/?action=view&current=DSC02120.jpg) is one of my mom's favorites. Please ignore my face, I wasnt paying attention to the camera, I was listening to the seamstress! There was very little detail to the bottom of this dress. I like more detail. The plus side was the detail on the top and it was very light weight. Not really a contender though, but I thought I would share.

This is one of the first dresses (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Gown%20Try%20on/?action=view&current=DSC02139.jpg) I tried on in the second bridal shop. It was nice, but again not too detailed. You can really see the scar on my face in this picture from that surgery, which makes me self concious.....but I wanted you to be able to see the gown. What do you think about it? Here is a picture of the detail (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Gown%20Try%20on/?action=view&current=DSC02140.jpg) on the top.

This next dress (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Gown%20Try%20on/?action=view&current=DSC02142.jpg) was a Maggie Sottero (sp?). I didnt recognize the name too much, but the lady at the dress shop kept referring to her gowns. I did not love this gown, but if I did chose it I would definitely remove the silver thing on the chest.

This is the second Maggie dress (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Gown%20Try%20on/?action=view&current=DSC02148.jpg). I did like this one. It was very pretty. There was a lot of crinoline which made it poofy and heavy, but I loved the detail on the dress. Not sure that it was the best one for me, but I did like it. Bottom (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Gown%20Try%20on/?action=view&current=DSC02149.jpg) of Maggie train. Detail (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Gown%20Try%20on/?action=view&current=DSC02157.jpg) of the bodice and the veil paired with it.

This is the last dress (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Gown%20Try%20on/?action=view&current=DSC02160.jpg)I tried on. My mom hated it and I was not a huge fan. It looked cuter on the hanger and it was way too big!

That is it for now. Please let me know what you think. I love to hear from all of you! Thanks for reading!:mickey:

Beast_fanatic
06-18-2008, 10:36 PM
I liked the first one in this most recent post best of all of them (one of your mom's favorites). I agree that it is a little plain on the bottom, but I like the way it looks on you the best of all of them. :thumbsup:

biodtl
06-19-2008, 10:51 AM
My favorites are the original #1 and the first one in this post - your mom's 2nd favorite. I think I like the straight across style on you best - it's very flattering.

RocknBev
06-23-2008, 10:45 AM
I still like the originial post dresses better....#1 and #2. As for the name of the dress, it is just the label the dress shop carries. If it is not in Vogue like Vera Wang, Christian Dior or Vivenne Westwood, I don't know them either. Of course, I am sure those don't Maggie dresses cost 10K up either!
:)

TiggeRia
06-23-2008, 10:56 AM
First of all, congrats on your engagement and WDW wedding!!!! I'm a little slow in catching up with this thread....

Anyway, I was looking at the pictures of the dresses you posted. My favorite on you was #1 from the first round of dresses and the Maggie dress 2. What is most important, though, is that what you wear should make you feel beautiful and like a princess. :princess:

Once again, congratulations and I'm looking forward to reading more about your wedding! :mickey:

Kairi_7378
06-23-2008, 02:15 PM
I'm glad that you're surviving your summer of 4 classes! I think I like Dress 1 from your first post the best. It looks very princess-y and I think it looks great on you. (Something that I can imagine someone wearing at a classy wedding at the Grand Floridian.)

Bethanymouse
06-23-2008, 10:26 PM
I liked the first one in this most recent post best of all of them (one of your mom's favorites). I agree that it is a little plain on the bottom, but I like the way it looks on you the best of all of them. :thumbsup:
Thanks! My mom really did like that one, but now today she tells me she isnt sure! It pulled to the side, maybe I will have to try on that style again.


My favorites are the original #1 and the first one in this post - your mom's 2nd favorite. I think I like the straight across style on you best - it's very flattering.
I think the first one is very popular here. I do like it but it is not my favorite. I will definitely try it on again when my matron of honor comes in from Washington. She wants to see it on me. Thanks for your input!


I still like the originial post dresses better....#1 and #2. As for the name of the dress, it is just the label the dress shop carries. If it is not in Vogue like Vera Wang, Christian Dior or Vivenne Westwood, I don't know them either. Of course, I am sure those don't Maggie dresses cost 10K up either!
:)
No the maggie dresses ran at about 800 dollars. Which shocked me, I thought they would be much more than that, though I dont know why! Thanks for the input on the dresses. I liked them both, but liked 2 best!


First of all, congrats on your engagement and WDW wedding!!!! I'm a little slow in catching up with this thread....

Anyway, I was looking at the pictures of the dresses you posted. My favorite on you was #1 from the first round of dresses and the Maggie dress 2. What is most important, though, is that what you wear should make you feel beautiful and like a princess. :princess:

Once again, congratulations and I'm looking forward to reading more about your wedding! :mickey:
Thanks for reading along. I really hope that you enjoy the planning! We are having fun with it, and all of you make it so much more fun!


I'm glad that you're surviving your summer of 4 classes! I think I like Dress 1 from your first post the best. It looks very princess-y and I think it looks great on you. (Something that I can imagine someone wearing at a classy wedding at the Grand Floridian.)
The summer classes are almost over, thank God! I cant wait! Next week is my last week of classes, then I have take home work. I am also finishing up all of my psychological evals that I have to complete for work. As of July 2 I will officially be on vacation! Thanks for reading!

OhToodles!
06-24-2008, 11:00 AM
Ultimately it shouldn't matter what anyone else thinks - it's what you want. I tried on pretty many dresses and had a favorite at each store - always the last place I went I liked one more than my favorite at the last place. You do get a feeling of 'this is it' when you find the one. I found mine at a newer wedding shop that was having a sample sale and I almost didn't try it on because it was poofy (all tulle at the bottom) since I didn't like the poofy ones at other stores (there was one similar at David's Bridal that I believe was Oleg Cassisni - tulle at bottom with top all sequins), BUT I tried it on and didn't want to take it off! It ended up being very close the Oleg one at David's Bridal (I didn't like that one because I felt like I was wearing a table under the dress) as it was tulle with sequins on top, but it was 2 pieces so the top helped tone down the poofiness at the waistline. So keep looking until 'you just know'.

GOOD LUCK!!

Marilyn Michetti
06-24-2008, 02:57 PM
Just a thought about the cake topper. I designed, and did wedding cakes until about three years ago, and your teacup shouldn't be a problem.

Lots of cake designers for weddings, do a cake that's breath-taking, but not entirely real. The tier that the couple cuts is real, and the topper is real. Most of the other tiers are iced styrofoam.

Besides making the cake lighter, it's not a pretty sight for the servers to hack the cake up in front of the guest's. Sheet cakes are cut in the kitchen that match the creation out front, and are ready to be served.

Your topper doesn't look that heavy, but if it is, the bakery can make an identical "keeper" for you to cut on your first anniversary, and your teacup can rest on a styrofoam, you'll have beautiful pictures, and nobody will be the wiser.

BTW, most cake decorators will agree that transporting wedding cakes is harder than baking them. It's not lots extra to have sheet cakes instead of the "real". Some commercial bakers actually will rent one of these with one tier to cut, and the rest is fake.

Bethanymouse
06-28-2008, 12:51 AM
Thanks for all of your input and suggestions. I have heard that about the wedding cake too. I will definitely look into it! Thanks Marilyn!

Toodles, I think I know what dress you are talking about at Davids. I saw it in their magazine, it looked very beautiful! Are you planning your wedding too or are you a newlywed? Thanks for your insight!

OhToodles!
06-30-2008, 02:57 PM
Toodles, I think I know what dress you are talking about at Davids. I saw it in their magazine, it looked very beautiful! Are you planning your wedding too or are you a newlywed? Thanks for your insight!

I wish I had a real Disney wedding, but it was great anyway. I've been married just over 2 years now. I guess we're all kind of living out our fantasy through you for a Disney wedding. :mickey: I have said if we ever renew our vows I'd do it at Disney!!

Bethanymouse
07-01-2008, 02:35 PM
Toodles, congrats on your wedding! I am sure it was beautiful! Thanks for reading along and dreaming with me. It is starting to pick up with planning now.

My mom is booking some dress shops for next week and my best friend is in from Washington for the summer so we should have some great pics coming soon. Cant wait to share it with all of you!

My friend Amy just bought me these cute Bride bags, one for makeup and one for jewelry, plus a luggage tag that matches! They are adorable, and make me so excited to plan! Thanks for reading all!

Bethanymouse
07-08-2008, 12:20 AM
Hello my friends! I hope that you all had a wonderful fourth of July celebration. We had a family reunion party in upstate NY and had a really great time! The weather was perfect. It was tough to stick to the diet, but I tried my best.

My best friend, and matron of honor has flown in from Washington for the summer. I got to see her for the first time tonight and we had a really great time chatting about life and fun wedding stuff. My mom has arranged for me to try on dresses again on Thursday so I will be sure to bring the camera and take some pictures. Please wish me luck!

We have been talking to the wedding coordinator from Disney who is fabulous so far and has been working with us to set up a meeting date when we go down there in a few weeks. We are super excited. At that same time we will also be meeting with our photographer, Randy Chapman. We are very impressed with his work, and hope to book him.

That is it for now, I will continue to keep you posted. Thanks for reading!:mickey:

Bethanymouse
07-21-2008, 12:51 AM
Surprise! Hello my intercotee friends! What a great day today was! I woke up thinking I was going out to lunch with my mom and my aunt and going dress shopping. I ended up walking into my bridal shower! It was so magical! I know it is a year ahead of time but my mom decided with everyone's schedules she wanted to do it now. My best friend (maid of honor) is in from the state of Washington for the summer, also I dont have school or work. It was so much fun.

When I first walked in my mom had when you wish upon a star playing in the background. It was so wonderful. They did such a great job with all of the details and what a wonderful day it was! I hope to post pictures soon for those of you interested. I will post more tomorrow, I am exhausted! Thanks for reading!

DizNee143
07-21-2008, 09:59 AM
lol ya it is a wee bit early for a bridal shower..but i think that with them doing it so so early..they really did through a curve ball your way and surprised you big time!!
glad you had a good time and enjoyed your party!..i just had mine a couple weeks ago also..goodluck finding space for everything you got!! lol..:mickey:

Bethanymouse
07-27-2008, 11:47 PM
Hello everyone! I hope that you are all enjoying your summer. As I mentioned above my family and friends threw a surprise bridal shower for me last weekend. I was finally able to upload some pics and I wanted to share them with you. I had a spectacular time. Anthony and I are so blessed to have so many wonderful people in our lives.

This picture (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Shower/?action=view&current=DSC02271.jpg) is of my bridal party with the exception of my bridesmaid Maggie who lives in Minnesota. The little blonde girl is my cousin Melissa, she isnt in the party either but was having so much fun helping out she wanted to be in the picture! The little girl in the pink is my flowergirl Sarah. She is precious and loves DISNEY! My maid of honor Corinne is the furthest on the right of the picture. My friend Christine is furthest left, then Amy, me in the chair, and my cousin Mandie.

Me and the girls. (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Shower/?action=view&current=DSC02270.jpg)

Thank God I did my hair that day as opposed to just throwing it up in a ponytail! I am also grateful I dressed halfway decent!

The Cake (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Shower/?action=view&current=DSC02269.jpg).

Napkins (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Shower/?action=view&current=DSC02277.jpg)

The favors were silver ice cream scoops with rainbow sprinkles. I dont have pics of them yet, hopefully my aunt will give me some of her pics! They were adorable. The girls also set up a game called the "scoop" on beth and asked my questions about me that went along with answers on a bingo game. It was really really cute. The bingo pieces were personalized m&m's and the boxes for the candies were cinderella coach boxes! Hopefully I can get pics soon of them.

Gotta have the mouse in the kitchen! (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Shower/?action=view&current=DSC02343.jpg)

My aunt made me this beautiful seaside quilt (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Shower/?action=view&current=DSC02433.jpg)! I loved it so I had to post a picture!

This is my mom and I (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Shower/?action=view&current=DSC02459.jpg) in our living room after the shower! We were so busy during the actual shower we forgot to take pictures of us! Our gifts are piled behind my mom!

Hope you enjoy them as much as I am! I hope to post some more soon! Thanks for reading!

kakn7294
07-28-2008, 02:46 AM
Wow, it is a bit early for a shower, but it sounds like you had a great time! Thanks for sharing the pics. I love the napkins!

BTW, you really look like your mom!

dolphinmickey9170
07-30-2008, 04:14 PM
Beth, I've been out of the loop for a couple of months, reading, not posting to your thread. I haven't seen "The dress" yet that I think you are looking for. The comment you made about the dress on the hanger...that's the one I like. I like you with straps. Even a spaghetti strap. You are so beautiful.

Can't wait to see you at the meet!!

Bethanymouse
08-19-2008, 01:01 AM
Hello all! We just got back from the most magical trip ever to WDW. I am trying to get over my post disney blues and getting everything unpacked and organized. I have written a few trip reports in the trip report thread and hope to catch up with some details on here sometime this week. We were able to do some pretty good wedding planning while we were in the world so I have lots to update on! Thanks for reading, I appreciate the feedback!

dtootsie42
08-24-2008, 02:48 PM
Hello, just finally got a chance to read the entire thread and get caught up on everything. I loved the first wedding gown in the first posting and then I love the first dress (your mom's favorite) in the second posting.

I think you are going to be a beautiful bride and it has been simply wonderful to read all your plans. (I also loved the trip report that you posted.)

I was married almost 22 years ago so I don't have many tips to give except, ENJOY....this time is so special. My hubby and I had the best time planning our wedding and if anybody offered to help we took them up on their offer. We are hoping to do a vow renewal at Disney for our 25th anniversary.

Anyways, I'm very happy for the two of you and the time is going to fly by in a flash!

tinkerbell04
08-24-2008, 03:23 PM
I can't wait to hear about the updates from the planning that happened on vacation. Thanks for sharing it all with us.

dolphinmickey9170
08-24-2008, 11:14 PM
Okay Bethany, we are ready for the details you wouldn't give at the mini meet. I'm so excited for you and Anthony! You guys are such a cute couple.

It was really great meeting you and sure hope we will meet up again sometime.

Bethanymouse
08-25-2008, 12:10 AM
Hello, just finally got a chance to read the entire thread and get caught up on everything. I loved the first wedding gown in the first posting and then I love the first dress (your mom's favorite) in the second posting.

I think you are going to be a beautiful bride and it has been simply wonderful to read all your plans. (I also loved the trip report that you posted.)

I was married almost 22 years ago so I don't have many tips to give except, ENJOY....this time is so special. My hubby and I had the best time planning our wedding and if anybody offered to help we took them up on their offer. We are hoping to do a vow renewal at Disney for our 25th anniversary.

Anyways, I'm very happy for the two of you and the time is going to fly by in a flash!
Congrats on 22 years! That is wonderful! I think a Vow renewal is perfect and would be so much fun to plan! Thanks for reading!


Okay Bethany, we are ready for the details you wouldn't give at the mini meet. I'm so excited for you and Anthony! You guys are such a cute couple.

It was really great meeting you and sure hope we will meet up again sometime.

We had a blast meeting you guys too! I am going to try to catch everyone up!

Bethanymouse
08-25-2008, 12:31 AM
Ok where to start! First things first. I am an avid reader on another disney website for only disney brides. There is an application process involved and lots of rules but it is a very helpful site. On this site, I heard about some great disney vendors and non disney vendors to use when planning a disney world wedding. Disney is very particular about who they consider to be a disney employee. Also, for any entertainment that is utilized and not "disney", such as an outside dj, band, etc. there is a fee.

Keeping this in mind, I researched by disney butt off to get some great people for our disney wedding. We came up with this:

Randy Chapman- Nondisney photographer, but shoots the most disney weddings (go figure!). He does about 22 a month and is absolutely fantastic. His shots are just stunning! The only question: Would be be able to get him. He is the most sought after by disney brides!

Reverand Jack Day- A disney wedding officiant. He is an older gentleman with twinkling disney eyes! He loves disney and performs most of the disney wedding ceremonies. Again, the most requested.

DJ Scooter: A disney DJ, most requested, unbelievably hard to get. We called him, and we got him!

So to update you: Leaving for our trip we did not know when our date was going to be. I only knew the above information on who I wanted for the wedding regarding officiant, dj, and photographer. I was requesting a July 31, 2009 date at 2:30 at disney's wedding pavillion with a reception to follow at Disney's GF resort. We also requested Cinderella's coach for transportation.

I will start with part one of our disney planning trip. We were able to meet with Randy Chapman. I arranged this meeting when I was in NJ. Although disney gives you a wedding coordinator and then a wedding planner, they will not assist you with any vendor who is non disney. Randy was great though and met us in the GF lobby. He was going to be shooting two other disney wedding that afternoon and evening. He was so wonderful! He brought many of his books for us to look through and spoke with us about packages. We ended up booking him on site! We were so excited that he had our date open, but we still werent sure if Disney was going to give us that date. We would find that out later that afternoon!

After meeting with Randy we hopped the monorail over to Kona for lunch. We had a meeting with our wedding coordinator Pam Pearce at 2:30. After filling our bellies and walking around the Poly a bit we took the path to the Polynesian. It was a beautiful walk (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Disney%20world%202008/?action=view&current=DisneyWorld2008227.jpg)! Once we arrived we looked around Franck's for a bit. This is the waiting area for the planning. They have lots on display (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Disney%20world%202008/?action=view&current=DisneyWorld2008235.jpg) to look at (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Disney%20world%202008/?action=view&current=DisneyWorld2008234.jpg), including different things that they offer for disney weddings. Anthony and I walked around a bit and then started looking through some pictures. Before we knew it Pam was ready for us and she was wonderful! She informed us that yes we had secured the date of July 31, 2009 at 2:30 at the Wedding Pavillion:joy::joy:!!!!!!! This is huge! We cant believe that we got the date and location just like that. Disney warns you that many times brides will be placed in a lottery for their date and/or time because they cant serve everyone in the same place/time. But not us! For some reason no one wanted that date:clappy:!!! We were so excited. We also were able to get Cinderella's royal carriage to take us to the ceremony and the reception! :party2: After securing our date and time Pam took us for a drive over to the GF ballrooms to show us where our cocktail hour and reception would take place.

Low and behold when we get there, Jack Day, the officiant we had booked was there to complete a ceremony that evening. So we got to meet him. He was such a nice man. We were very excited. We then went on a tour of the ballrooms. These are not located in the main lobby, instead they are located to the left of the GF in the front. They are separated from the guests, but connected by a walkway that is covered. Our cocktail hour will take place in the Whitehall room which is surrounded by windows. It has an outdoor patio area for guests if they so chose. There is a magnificent view of the caslte!:cloud9: We also so that ballroom that we will most likely get, the Augustine room. This will be made definite in November. The GF will not guarentee which ballroom until 8 months out. But the will guarentee a ballroom of some sort. They are all beautiful so it doesnt matter, but most likely we will be in the St. Augustine room!

We were very excited. Pam filled us in on a lot of other information, gave us a packet to look at and encouraged us to come back later in the week to see the inside of the pavillion (we couldnt get in that day due to weddings).

There are many more details to fill you all in on. I will once I get my bearings. I will also upload some pictures of the inside of the wedding pavillion and bride's vestibule from later in the trip! Thanks for reading!

kakn7294
08-25-2008, 01:42 AM
Bethany, I am so excited for you! I'm so happy you got everything you wanted so far. You and Anthony are so cute together! I just have one question for you - can I come? :D

RedSoxFan
08-25-2008, 08:37 AM
Sounds like everything is coming into place. So happy for you. Did you get the photographer you wanted??

yjgirl32
08-25-2008, 09:15 AM
I would love to hear about your wedding plans. What an exciting time for you both. Be sure and take time to actually enjoy all of the planning. It can gt very overwhelming. Can't wait to read more!

BeccaO
08-25-2008, 11:10 AM
It's so exciting to read about all of your planning! What a dream come true for you to have a Disney Wedding. I did not have a Disney Wedding, but my DH and I had a Disney Honeymoon. He had never been to Disney and did not want to do Disney for our honeymoon, so we met half way and we went to Key West for a week so that he could Scuba Dive and then we went to Disney for a week for me!! That was the beginning of DH being hooked on Disney!!! We stayed at the GF in a honeymoon suite and it was fabulous!!! We have been happily married for 12 years and have 2 beautiful children!!!

BTW, 2:30 in the afternoon is a great time to get married, it's an old wives tale that when you get married when the second hand on the clock is going up it's good luck, as opposed to the second hand going down (example: 2:00 or 3:00). We got married at 2:30 on 4/20/96.

Good-luck to both of you, you are a cute couple and I can't wait to hear the updates you have been posting! :thumbsup:

dtootsie42
08-25-2008, 09:38 PM
Wow Bethany sounds like everything that you wanted is falling into place. I look forward to reading more posts about your journey.

lockedoutlogic
08-25-2008, 11:08 PM
Ok....i must be REALLY bored.....


Gary Fox photography.....outside guy....very good.....no proof/print hustle

Disney photographers are HORRENDOUS....

that's all

SBETigg
08-26-2008, 10:33 PM
It's all so exciting! I'm glad all your plans are falling into place. Looking good! Best wishes and continued happy planning!

prprincess
08-27-2008, 09:43 AM
Congratulations on booking your date and venues!! I'm glad that you were able to get "when" and "where" you wanted. And wow, the carriage!!

Pam was my initial coordinator and she was great. I didn't book Randy, but I interviewed him and have seen his work, and he's pretty good, too.

And I can't say enough about Rev. Jack. He married hubby and I and not only did we love him, but so did our guests. He's a very warm and friendly person, and gives off such a good vibe.

tinkerbell04
08-27-2008, 03:07 PM
That is all so great Bethany! I am so glad that things have worked out so well so far! I am looking forward to reading even more!

Bethis26fan
08-27-2008, 08:37 PM
Glad everything is falling into place.

coolz
08-28-2008, 01:53 AM
I'd love to hear. My husband and I are wanting to renew our vows there at some point. Thanks for wanting to share.

That's cool and it'll be memorable one for sure if you both did it on WDW. :mickey:

AuntDJ
08-28-2008, 08:08 PM
Hey Bethany! I can't believe you got all the things you wanted! True Disney magic!!

Also, I know you have been working really hard and I wanted to let you know that you look GREAT!!!!

Congrats again on everything!

DJ

Bethanymouse
08-28-2008, 10:55 PM
Thanks so much for all of the encouragement and good wishes! We are so very excited to be in planning mode and we are trying to enjoy every minute! Right now we are working on our first newsletter that we are going to send out to guests along with a save the date dvd with our disney pictures on it. We picked up our materials today and now we are trying to put together the pictures we want included in the dvd and the music. Any good disney love song recommendations? I know we are doing When you wish upon a star....any others? Thanks for your help, when the video and newsletter is complete I hope to be able to share it with you!

Bethis26fan
08-29-2008, 05:38 AM
What about Kiss the girl. :blush:

OhToodles!
08-29-2008, 09:01 AM
I used 'So This is Love' and 'Can You Feel the Love Tonight' during my wedding. I did use the instrumentals, but for what you're using them for you could use the original songs.

Sounds like you're having a blast planning! Good Luck! And I'm glad you've gotten what you wanted so far and I hope you continue for good fortune.

meldan98
08-29-2008, 03:07 PM
I think another really good song, though not Disney, would work really well.."What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong. It really has a Disney feel to it and plays on Walt Disney World.

Kairi_7378
08-30-2008, 12:58 PM
I've enjoyed your trip reports and I'm so happy to read that you got the date and the venue that you wanted for your wedding! Congrats on getting that as well as the officiant and the photographer. Those are the things that most people have a lot of problems with and you managed to book them all in a relatively short time.

Our first songs at our wedding was "What a Wonderful World." Some others that could work for you could be "You've got a Friend in Me," from Toy Story, or "Once Upon a Dream" from Sleeping Beauty.

bleukarma
08-31-2008, 09:27 PM
Bethany, it sounds like everything is falling into place for you! How exciting!! It's been so fun to read about all the exciting events that you got to book. Wow, the carriage! How lucky!

It was also fun reading about your bridal shower. I am currently planning my best friends bridal shower so it was fun to see you having so much fun at yours!

Thanks for this thread! It's so fun!!!

Also, I am putting together a dvd for my best friends bridal shower and "So this is love" is one of the songs I pulled. I'm not going to use it since she isn't into Disney like I am, but it's a song that I would want in my dvd one day. :thumbsup:

Bethanymouse
09-01-2008, 05:53 PM
Thanks so much for the suggestions everyone! Anthony and I listened to a bunch of songs and decided to go with the original When you wish upon a star from Pinocchio and When you're the best of friends, from the Fox and the Hound. We are still working on the dvd and the newsletter. School has also started back up for me during nights so life is about to get hectic again. I start work again tomorrow. Thanks for reading and for all of the input, hopefully I have some new updates for you soon!

Bethanymouse
09-08-2008, 08:02 PM
Hello all! Just a few updates.....we have now booked our videographer, we decided to go with Trinity wedding video located in Florida. You can look on youtube and try to find them. They have some great videos posted, one of a disney wedding. Due to rules here I cant post the link, but feel free to check them out if you get a chance.

On Friday afternoon I ordered my wedding dress! I absolutely am so in love with it! My mom, dad, and brother came to see me try it on again and my dad said that I looked beautiful! I almost started crying already! I may try to post some pics soon, I dont have any updated ones. I think I posted a few a while back. My waist shrunk 4 inches since May which was very exciting, but I have not really been losing tons of weight in that time frame. I guess that Cheddar Cheese soup didnt help much either:secret::blush::secret:.

We also completed a disney wedding newsletter. I will try to figure out how to post them on here soon. It was a LOT of work, but it came out really neat.

Today we received some information in the mail from WDW weddings. It was a music and cake packet which included our cake choices and prices as well as music selections for the ceremony. We are having fun playing with it all.
Thanks all for reading, I enjoy reading your responses and suggestions. We are heading to wildwood this weekend for Fireman's convention so hopefully next week I can get some more pics up next week of at least the newsletter!:mickey:

KT1234
09-14-2008, 12:51 PM
Hi Bethany!

I just spent the last hour catching up on your wedding planning--thank you so much for including all of us in this! I don't know anyone else who had a full Disney wedding but ever since I was a little girl, I've wanted one. It's great to be let in on the little details! Everything sounds like it's coming together and I can't wait to hear more about it. I'm very excited to hopefully see a picture of the dress you decided!

I know I'm late but I was hoping to add my input on the bridesmaids and fg dresses (since you already chose your dress). For the Bridesmaid dresses, I loved the look of dress number 3-the tea length dress. I actually work in wardrobe/costume for theater/tv/movies so I know how it can be to have to try to fit someone. I would suggest maybe adding a sturdier cup in the dress (it won't look as poofy if you remove the more flimsy puffy padding) for the women with a larger bust. also, I really wouldn't turn my nose up on those clear removable bra straps that you can get at walmart or target. As long as they're clean and tucket under that skinny strap, they will BARELY be noticable. I've got a smaller bust but I never go without a bra because I think everyone (regardless of bust size) needs that support-especially in any dress that has a skinny strap and a lower neckline. I always suggest to my clients to follow this rule because it always just looks better. Just my thoughts.

I also LOVE the idea of finding a designer and having the same color and fabric but different styles that go together. I have been to weddings where the bridesmaids are very different sizes and this worked wonderfully. It didn't take away from the overall look at all and each girl looked beautiful and, most of all, CONFIDENT!, in the dress that looked best on her.

As for the flower girl dress, I loved dress 1 and 4. I think that number 7 is really pretty but I love the "cute little girl" quality that the other dresses had. plus, I think that she would defiantely be able to wear number 4 again. absolutely beautiful. number 4 would DEFINATELY be my choice. just love the simplicity of it.

congrats on your weight loss too! you look beautiful in all your pictures and i can't wait to see your continued success.


can't wait to read more!

kakn7294
09-14-2008, 07:46 PM
Bethany, if the opinions of 8 and 13 yo girls matter, first they both think you are extremely lucky and they are jealous that you are having a Disney World wedding. Second, they both like the "Dreams do Come True" pillow. Third, they both like Flower Girl dress #6. Last, Megan (8 yo) likes Bridesmaid #3 while Stephanie (13 yo) likes Bridesmaid #2.

bmousebmaid09
09-14-2008, 07:53 PM
Everything looks beautiful! I love the bridesmaid dresses- and the songs that you chose give me goosebumps! I CANNOT WAIT!!!! Love you guys soooo much! P.S. Your waist shrunk 4 inches since May?!?!?! You must have been working hard :mickey:

Bethanymouse
09-15-2008, 07:09 AM
Hi Bethany!

I just spent the last hour catching up on your wedding planning--thank you so much for including all of us in this! I don't know anyone else who had a full Disney wedding but ever since I was a little girl, I've wanted one. It's great to be let in on the little details! Everything sounds like it's coming together and I can't wait to hear more about it. I'm very excited to hopefully see a picture of the dress you decided!

I know I'm late but I was hoping to add my input on the bridesmaids and fg dresses (since you already chose your dress). For the Bridesmaid dresses, I loved the look of dress number 3-the tea length dress. I actually work in wardrobe/costume for theater/tv/movies so I know how it can be to have to try to fit someone. I would suggest maybe adding a sturdier cup in the dress (it won't look as poofy if you remove the more flimsy puffy padding) for the women with a larger bust. also, I really wouldn't turn my nose up on those clear removable bra straps that you can get at walmart or target. As long as they're clean and tucket under that skinny strap, they will BARELY be noticable. I've got a smaller bust but I never go without a bra because I think everyone (regardless of bust size) needs that support-especially in any dress that has a skinny strap and a lower neckline. I always suggest to my clients to follow this rule because it always just looks better. Just my thoughts.

I also LOVE the idea of finding a designer and having the same color and fabric but different styles that go together. I have been to weddings where the bridesmaids are very different sizes and this worked wonderfully. It didn't take away from the overall look at all and each girl looked beautiful and, most of all, CONFIDENT!, in the dress that looked best on her.

As for the flower girl dress, I loved dress 1 and 4. I think that number 7 is really pretty but I love the "cute little girl" quality that the other dresses had. plus, I think that she would defiantely be able to wear number 4 again. absolutely beautiful. number 4 would DEFINATELY be my choice. just love the simplicity of it.

congrats on your weight loss too! you look beautiful in all your pictures and i can't wait to see your continued success.


can't wait to read more!
Thanks so much for reading along. I need to post updated pics of the bridesmaid dresses we have most likely selected and the flowergirl dresses. It has been so much fun picking everything out! Thanks so much for your input! I love reading everyone's responses!


Bethany, if the opinions of 8 and 13 yo girls matter, first they both think you are extremely lucky and they are jealous that you are having a Disney World wedding. Second, they both like the "Dreams do Come True" pillow. Third, they both like Flower Girl dress #6. Last, Megan (8 yo) likes Bridesmaid #3 while Stephanie (13 yo) likes Bridesmaid #2.
Tell your daughters thanks! Their opinions do matter! I like the DCT pillow too, but still not sure if I am going to do a pillow, after all what do you do with it when its over? I might have them just look cute and walk down the aisle. What do you think? Thanks so much for your input!


Everything looks beautiful! I love the bridesmaid dresses- and the songs that you chose give me goosebumps! I CANNOT WAIT!!!! Love you guys soooo much! P.S. Your waist shrunk 4 inches since May?!?!?! You must have been working hard :mickey:

Amy!!! Hello there! Intercotees- please meet my bridesmaid Amy, here on intercot! Thanks for the excitement Ames! My waist has shrunk, but thats about the only thing, and the waist doesnt matter too much in the dress. I gotta get rid of this arm fat! Thanks for joining Amy~!:cloud9:

Bethanymouse
09-25-2008, 09:36 PM
Hello All! Well just to update everyone, my dress and measurements are officially in and ordered. The dress will arrive in April and then fittings will follow. My girls are going to order their dresses in early November! So exciting! Things are really starting to come together now. It is so much fun to watch it unfold.

Our newsletters and save the date dvd's are out in the mail as of yesterday and tomorrow. Anthony worked really hard on the dvd's and they came out beautiful. I really couldnt have pulled it all together without the help of my parents and Anthony. Getting those newsletters and dvds out was a lot of work. At least we have our finalized guest list completed and that will be emailed to our wedding coordinator in late October.

I hope to post a picture of my gown soon. I am so in love with it. Thanks for reading all! :cloud9:

mouseketeer mom
09-26-2008, 06:28 AM
I am really looking forward to seeing the gown!! Post that pic soon!

Bethanymouse
10-01-2008, 03:44 PM
Sorry I have not written. Things have been very busy here! The newsletters and dvd's are all in the mail now. Most people have received them and we are starting to get some great feedback. Anthony did such a great job on the dvd, many thought it was professionally done!

Many people are upset that we are not inviting children to the wedding. There is babysitting services available through disney that I will provide them with all of the information. I am not sure what else to say to most of them.

As for the other fun stuff. Here is a picture of my wedding gown (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Gown%20Try%20on/?action=view&current=DSC02128.jpg). This is from my trial back in early June. This is the bottom (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Gown%20Try%20on/?action=view&current=DSC02129.jpg)of the dress and it also allows you to see the detail. Here is the train (http://s95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/bethanymouse/Wedding%20Gown%20Try%20on/?action=view&current=DSC02117.jpg). I am absolutely in LOVE with it! What do you guys think of it?

On another note, we booked our flight to Orlando for July. We leave July 28 and come home August 16. Anthony talked me into a 16 day honeymoon :blush:. We have not booked our hotel or dining plan yet, but I am already starting to plan! You know how it goes! Any good ideas on fun stuff for us to do on our disneymoon? Thanks so much for reading. I am really enjoying sharing this journey with you.

thrillme
10-01-2008, 07:11 PM
Good for you. Provide info about babysitting services. Don't let it bother you about people not being happy about not inviting kids. Be prepared some people will still bring them regardless.

Older kids aren't so bad at weddings. Once they're 10/11 or so...they're old enough to handle the time to sit still and be quiet. Some may also appreciate it...but....It gets so complicated explaining to people who can and can't bring kids that it's easier just to say no. EVERYBODY thinks their kids are "angels".:thedolls:

On the financial side...one more child is one more mouth. Caterers don't have "childrens" menus...they just count mouths and that gets expensive.

I'm sure a lot of people you know have kids avg 2 per couple equates to 4 people 2 couples are now 8...it's going to start growing exponentially.

My DS is 12 now and I'll take him where he's invited but when he was younger I left him home with Grandma or another relative and he was VERY grateful to not have to go. Even now he's not really interested in going anywhere where a video game isn't involved.

SBETigg
10-01-2008, 07:39 PM
What a beautiful dress! I'm so excited for you! Don't let other people's expectations or plans worry you. If you offer the information of baby sitting services, you're all set. It's your wedding. Do it your way, and have a ball! And a sixteen day honeymoon, wow! I love the way you two think. :)

tinkerbell04
10-01-2008, 07:55 PM
Bethany, the dress is beautiful! I am sure that some people won't be happy about the babysitting, but tough....it is your day and you should do things the way that you want them done! Don't let those things start to stress you out, let them go and enjoy this special time!

DizneyRox
10-01-2008, 08:57 PM
Depending on the number of children, you can provide a smaller party for them, which will probably be cheaper than inviting them to your wedding. We also did not want kids at the wedding, but we also knew that getting people down to WDW (which is a family vacation) but without kids wasn't realistic. But, we foot the bill for the child care services. We only had a few people actually bring kids, so we opted for in-room childcare which went over well.

Just an idea...

mouseketeer mom
10-01-2008, 09:15 PM
I think your dress is Princess Perfect.

I also like DizneyRox idea of the small party for the kids. Getting people to WDW without the kids is a tough one.

Bethanymouse
10-01-2008, 09:33 PM
Good for you. Provide info about babysitting services. Don't let it bother you about people not being happy about not inviting kids. Be prepared some people will still bring them regardless.

Older kids aren't so bad at weddings. Once they're 10/11 or so...they're old enough to handle the time to sit still and be quiet. Some may also appreciate it...but....It gets so complicated explaining to people who can and can't bring kids that it's easier just to say no. EVERYBODY thinks their kids are "angels".:thedolls:

On the financial side...one more child is one more mouth. Caterers don't have "childrens" menus...they just count mouths and that gets expensive.

I'm sure a lot of people you know have kids avg 2 per couple equates to 4 people 2 couples are now 8...it's going to start growing exponentially.

My DS is 12 now and I'll take him where he's invited but when he was younger I left him home with Grandma or another relative and he was VERY grateful to not have to go. Even now he's not really interested in going anywhere where a video game isn't involved.
Thanks for your support. I really am trying to be strong on this one. I tend to like to please everyone and make it easy on them, but I cant budge on this. We are currently inviting about 160 people, imagine that each couple has 2 kids, that is a lot of children.

The way you stated that parents think their children are angels is so true. I think that for the most part the kids dont really want to be there. They would rather be at the Neverland Club, or a babysitting service. It is more appropriate for them. I do appreciate your support on this though!

What a beautiful dress! I'm so excited for you! Don't let other people's expectations or plans worry you. If you offer the information of baby sitting services, you're all set. It's your wedding. Do it your way, and have a ball! And a sixteen day honeymoon, wow! I love the way you two think. :)
Thanks so much. I am trying not to let it stress me out. I just like to try to please everyone, which I know is impossible. I appreciate your well wishes and your support. That is why I love intercot!

Anthony is super excited about the long honeymoon....we better start saving big time!

Bethany, the dress is beautiful! I am sure that some people won't be happy about the babysitting, but tough....it is your day and you should do things the way that you want them done! Don't let those things start to stress you out, let them go and enjoy this special time!
Thanks, I need that support! I am trying to just relax and let it roll off of my shoulders.


Depending on the number of children, you can provide a smaller party for them, which will probably be cheaper than inviting them to your wedding. We also did not want kids at the wedding, but we also knew that getting people down to WDW (which is a family vacation) but without kids wasn't realistic. But, we foot the bill for the child care services. We only had a few people actually bring kids, so we opted for in-room childcare which went over well.

Just an idea...
Our wedding planner already talked to us about this as well. However, I think it would just be too many kids and another expense. My feeling was that if we were getting married at home, many of them would have to get babysitters anyway, so why not in disney? I guess people feel differently down there? Thanks for the suggestions though.

I think your dress is Princess Perfect.

I also like DizneyRox idea of the small party for the kids. Getting people to WDW without the kids is a tough one.

Thanks for the feedback on the dress. I appreciate all of your support here intercotees!!!!!

RedSoxFan
10-02-2008, 07:24 AM
Your dress is beautiful. I, too, would give them info on babysitting services. 16 day honeymoon --- WOW.

DizneyRox
10-02-2008, 10:18 AM
Our wedding planner already talked to us about this as well. However, I think it would just be too many kids and another expense. My feeling was that if we were getting married at home, many of them would have to get babysitters anyway, so why not in disney? I guess people feel differently down there? Thanks for the suggestions though.
I don't think it's that people feel differently really. The problem is, Disney (for most) is a destination wedding, and the location is that of a 1/2 decent family vacation. People, like it or not, will be put off having to arrange for some stranger to take care of their kids after they spent how much money to fly everyone down, park tickets, and whatever.

That's going to be the problem I think. While the decision is ultimately yours, I'm just passing along the info. We budgeted for the party (taking into account everyone that might come) for the kids and ended up only having to arrange for a babysitter for a couple kids. I'll say we lucked out really, but felt we had to provide that flexibility.

The party doesn't have to be anything great. The kids meals were super cheap considering what the adult meals go for. Is Disney going to charge for a room at the grand for the kids party too? I think we just needed to pay for entertainment and meals really, and the parents we thought would like that the kids would be right down the hall.

When we looked at our expenses, the children's party was nothing compared to everything else.

Good luck, it's a touchy subject I know..

buzznwoodysmom
10-02-2008, 10:42 AM
I have been reading along with you, but this is my first time posting. Just wanted to say congrats and everything is looking to turn out beautifully. Love the dress you picked. You are going to be a beautiful bride. And a 16 day honeymoon, lucky you!!

I do have to comment on the no kids thing. Ultimately it is your day and your decision to make, but as a parent here is my take on it. I have 2 children and if we were ever to be invited to a wedding at WDW there is no way we'd go all that way without taking the kids and also getting a family vacation out of it. After all, that's a far way to go and a big expense just for a wedding, especially when its DISNEY!!!! Now that my kids are older (6 and 8) I would be totally comfortable with an in room babysitter or the Neverland club, but not when they were younger. My kids are 2 years apart and when I had a 2 year old and an infant there is no way I would have ever left them in the care of strangers, disney or not. Even when they were 2 and 4, I still wouldn't have done it. We would have opted to not attend the wedding, just not go at all. I am not trying to convince you to allow children at your wedding, so please, please don't take it that way, but don't be surprised if people end up not going because of this. If a wedding is back at home parents can get a number of people they know to babysit, but this is completely different. Before I had children I didn't see what the big deal was, get a sitter and go have fun!! But after having children your perspective on everything changes. There are some things you just can't understand or feel until you have children of your own. Leaving children with people you've never met is a huge deal to a lot of parents. I am sure they are not unhappy with you for the decision you are making. Most are probably just unhappy that the only option they have is just not an option they are willing or comfortable to take. I hope everything works out for everyone. If this is the worst problem you encounter then you've done really well. Good luck with everything!!!