Saturday, June 16, 2012

Today I Do

Today I marry my best friend, Matthew Michael Denver, and we begin our lives together! At 2:00 pm I will walk down the aisle and will become Mrs. Denver from here on.

Thanks to everyone that helped and got us this far!

And to my wonderful husband, I love you more today than ever before and that love will always grow.

Love,
Ashley

Friday, June 15, 2012

Friday

1 day

It's tomorrow!

As for today, the girls and I have nail appointments at 2 (Jess, Shannon, Cris, and I at 1 for pedicures) at Metro Nails. We're going to go to the hotel and check in after that and get ready for the rehearsal at 4 30 at the chapel. After that we're going to dinner at Waterplace Restaurant at 6. Afterwards, we're going to McCormick & Schmidt's for drinks, which is in the bottom of the Biltmore.

However, the first thing that I need to do is get new shoes for Hannah since her feet grow at the rate of bamboo.

Jess, Cris, and I did the out of town bags this morning as well as the escort cards! We are all set for tomorrow!!

Thursday, June 14, 2012

Thursday

2 days

I have been on my feet today since 6 30 this morning! I worked from 7 to 3 30 today and then went immediately to pick up Cris from the bus station. We came back to the apartment and packed up most of the boxes for the reception. Cris, Jess, and I went to the Biltmore and delivered the boxes. We then went to pick up my dress, which I tried on again and it fits perfectly! After that we went to get pedicures, but had to schedule them for tomorrow before our manicures. Then we went to Walmart and got the rest of the supplies for the escort cards, out of town bags, and honeymoon. We picked up Matt and went to dinner at Newport Creamery and we JUST got back.

However, I am SO excited for the next two days...and the honeymoon!!

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Wednesday

3 days

Tomorrow is my last day of work before the wedding! I'm working from 7 until 3 and then I'm off to do wedding stuff for the rest of the day! Thankfully, I'll have Jess and Cris here to help me with the rest of my to-do list, including the out of town bags!

We got a gift yesterday from CJ and Andrea that we finally opened today! It's the storage chest for our silverware! (Well, once we get the good silverware, it'll go in there.)

And good news is I'll be able to bring most of the reception stuff to the Biltmore tomorrow!! So excited to get it out of my house!

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

Tuesday

4 days

So I emailed Scott and found out that we're over $2000 short of our food minimum. We thought that we'd be able to use this for an open bar, but apparently it's ONLY for food. Now we have to add something and there's no other way we'll be able to afford an open bar. I'm rather annoyed...

I also got a text from my mom that Jos A Bank is saying there's an extra fee for the tuxes to remain there until Friday. What the hell.

Seriously, I am over all this wedding bullshit. I just want it to be here and enjoy it. UGH

Monday, June 11, 2012

Monday

5 days

So apparently we're meeting with our officiant on Wednesday. I'm really over all this, I like him but the meetings are honestly a waste of time. We'll see how this one goes.

I sent in the final payment for our photographer, Jess today! One more down!

Sunday, June 10, 2012

Sunday

6 days

I am close to being done packing for the honeymoon. I have to pack my shower stuff, but that has to wait until the end of the week. I also want a couple pairs of undies that are in the wash which I'll be doing later today.

I changed my dress for the rehearsal dinner last night. I haven't worn the black and white rose print one from 344 yet, so I'm going to wear that instead of the American Eagle one. I want to wear the black pumps that I got from Alloy and they wouldn't really go with the other dress.

I packed part of my overnight bag for Friday and Saturday night as well, however, I need to put in pajamas. Apparently that's my favorite thing to forget lately...like at my bachelorette.

I also relabeled the centerpieces yesterday and took out the extras that we'll no longer need. I'm going to sell most of the extra stuff (or try to) since I don't need 20 centerpieces lying around the house.

AND I addressed the wedding announcements yesterday. Now I just need to buy more stamps for them!

Saturday, June 9, 2012

One Week

7 days

After much trouble and miscommunication, I have been waxed! I didn't end up doing my underarms, but I got a brazilian and the bottom of my legs. It was definitely an experience, one that I will not be repeating on my legs. The brazilian, however, might have to been done once in a while.

I'm going to really start packing for the honeymoon today. I need to get almost everything since the end of the week may be a little crazy. I'll probably start packing Matt's suitcase as well, since I know he's working until Thursday.

Friday, June 8, 2012

Shorn

8 days

I'm going tomorrow to get waxed! I don't want to have to shave for the wedding or during the honeymoon, so my coworker, Raidiris, and I are going to Christiaan Salon to get everything done! Hello hairlessness!

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Single Digits

9 days

Matt scheduled his hair appointment today! He's going next Thursday morning to get everything trimmed and groomed!

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Ten

10 days

I have the stripper pictures form Jess! Here are the two of me, which are quite hilarious!


Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Stand Up

11 days

I can't believe how close the wedding is! We're talking about plans that are happening NEXT week! So weird!

Matt's aunt and uncle bought us the tv stand that will match our (to be bought) bedroom set! It won't be available until the 16th, so we have to pick a day to have it delivered. (After the honeymoon, obviously.)

Monday, June 4, 2012

Photo Proof

12 days

I had an amazing weekend with my girls! We had a blast on Friday with dinner and then Saturday night with strippers and dancing! Here are some of the pictures:












Friday, June 1, 2012

Limeade

Happy 23rd Birthday to my dear friend and bridesmaid, Shannon!

Last Fling

It's my bachelorette weekend! FINALLY! I am WICKED excited and I'll be sure to post as many (appropriate) pictures as possible! Off to get Cristina soon and then to the hotel to get ready!

AND it's Matt's bachelor party as well! They're heading out to the strip clubs tonight and Foxwoods tomorrow! I hope they have fun!

Pink Panther

15 days

I finished the last issue of the newsletter! I'm sent it to Staples to have a copy printed for my scrapbook as well as for my mom! And here it is:




Thursday, May 31, 2012

Paid In Full

16 days

We got the check from my gramma to finish paying the chapel and dj! I'm going to deposit it tomorrow and then send out checks to the two people as soon as it's in the account!

Tomorrow our bachelorette and bachelor weekends begin! I'm really excited! I'll be sure to post a lot of pictures!!

Tangerine Dream

Happy 26th Birthday to my great friend and bridesmaid, Jess!

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Photo Op

17 days

No new RSVPs today, but my friend from high school is bringing another of our friends, Taylor, to the wedding. I'm happy because he's awesome and I haven't seen him in a while.

This weekend is my bachelorette party! I'm finally getting excited about it, which is a small miracle after all the drama and confusion! Now I just need help from my bridesmaids about what to wear...

We're going to send in the rest of the money for our photographer this week!!

Monday, May 28, 2012

Faithfully

Matt and I wrote our Prayers of the Faithful! It wasn't really that hard once we buckled down and concentrated on it. Here it is:


For the Holy Catholic Church, may they continue to be a beacon of hope, faith, love, and tolerance in the manner of Christ himself,
We pray to the Lord;

For all of the children of the world, may God protect them from hunger, abuse, neglect, and disease, and allow them to live happy and carefree childhoods,
We pray to the Lord;

For those in our armed forces, may God watch over them and bring them home safely to their friends and families,
We pray to the Lord;

For all parents, especially Paul and Allison Mikaniewicz and Mark and Joanne Denver, may the love for their children mirrors the love that God had for his only son,
We pray to the Lord;

For Providence College, may the tenets of our Dominican brothers be a shining example of a life to aspire to,
We pray to the Lord;

For our friends and families, both here and away, may they celebrate our joy with us and be an inspiration for the journey ahead of us,
We pray to the Lord;

For all the sick, especially Barbara Desrosiers (de-row-shay) and John MacLeod, may the healing power of prayer and God’s love bring them relief,
We pray to the Lord;

For our dearly departed, especially James Denver Sr., Dorothy Leab, Anthony Mikaniewicz, Maurice Myers, Mariette Stanton, and Michael Stanton, may they remain in our prayers and memories and may they be here with us in spirit,
We pray to the Lord.

In the Teens

19 days

I forgot to take my camera yesterday, so I have only one picture from the demolition derby taken from my phone:


Matt and I decided not to use SureShot for our videographer. All the reviews I have seen are absolutely horrid and it's not worth the stress. We asked Jess if she'd be able to help us out and she said of course! So for $200 more, she'll have her boyfriend videotape the ceremony for us.

I ordered the wedding announcements the other day from Vistaprint. I was waiting because I wanted to put our new address on them, but we're not sure where we're moving right now.

Next weekend, after my bachelorette on Sunday, Mom and I are spending the day together! We're going to look for something for her to wear for the rehearsal dinner. I'm excited to have a day with just me and my mommy.

Matt managed to get food poisoning, so I'm going to go take care of him.

Sunday, May 27, 2012

Twenty

20 days

Matt and I are spending some quality, non-wedding related time together today. We're going to tailgate and then see a demolition derby with some of my coworkers! I LOVE demolition derbies and have been trying to get Matt to one for year, but we always miss the one near my parents. This year, though, we're going to that one as well with my parents and siblings! I'll post pictures later if I remember to take any with our NEW camera!

Saturday, May 26, 2012

Three Weeks

21 days

240 invited
165 attending
65 declined

We got one more RSVP today in the mail from my parents' neighbors, Kim and Ian.

I got my tattoo and I LOVE it! Thanks to Shannon for coming with me and being my moral support!


Shannon and I went to get our nails done after my tattoo and I loved the place, so I scheduled the appointments for the wedding there. I'm glad to have one more thing checked off my list!

Friday, May 25, 2012

Stragglers

22 days

240 invited
165 attending
63 declined

We have most of the missing RSVPs responses in after some calling, texting, and emailing. I'm waiting on a few others, some of who have later reply dates, though. It looks like we'll be around 175 or 180 people.

Here are the few that we got today (all declines):
-my cousin, Matt, and his girlfriend
-my aunt, Kathy, and her boyfriend, Ham
-Matt's cousin, Andrea, and her husband, Mario
-my friend from dance, Lisa

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Verbalize

23 days

240 invited
160 attending
55 declined

RSVPs left: 18

A verbal RSVP from Matt's mom about her friends, Mary and Stephen, whom declined. And my college friend, Jason, is unable to make it as well.

Most of the missing RSVPs, I have discovered, are from my side. Way to fail.

I'm going for my tattoo on Saturday and my friend from work, Raidiris is coming with me! I'll be sure to post pictures once I get home!

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

License to Wed

24 days

240 invited
161 attending
52 declined

RSVPs left: 20

One RSVP today from two of the Holt brothers, whom declined. I'm going to send an email to my mom and Matt's mom later with names of those who haven't responded yet.

Matt and I got our marriage license today! We're getting so close!

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Quarter

25 days

240 invited
161 attending
50 declined

RSVPs left: 22

Again, none today and we are on day two after the due date. Still waiting until tomorrow before we start contacting others.

Matt and I are going to get our marriage license tomorrow! I'll be sure to scan it or take a picture to post here!

Monday, May 21, 2012

Past Due

26 days

240 invited
161 attending
50 declined

RSVPs left: 22

No RSVPs today and we're a mailing day beyond the due date. Let's see if we get any by Wednesday and then I'll start calling/emailing people.

Matt and I are going to go on Wednesday to get our marriage license since we now have all the paperwork and necessary documents. So excited!

I scheduled my appointment for my tattoo and paid the deposit! I'm going this Saturday at 2 30! I'll post pictures when I'm done!! Now I just need to convince Matt to 6.16.12 tattooed on both of us somewhere...

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Four Weeks

28 days

240 invited
161 attending
50 declined

RSVPs left: 22

RSVPs today from Matt's mom's friends, Dean and Sally, and my college friend, Robert.

I got my exchange from Frederick's in the mail yesterday! It's really cute and has already been thrown into the suitcase for the honeymoon!
We got the rehearsal dinner invite yesterday from Matt's parents! So excited! I also dropped off the deposit for the restaurant today. (Joanne had sent it and it got returned, so we told her we would bring it ourselves.)

I had my meeting with Scott yesterday at the Biltmore. I got there along with at least a hundred prom going high schoolers. Scott gave me a seating plan for the ballroom which I'll fill in for him. It was a really quick meeting and he kept telling me how he loved how organized I am.

I have decided that I'm going to get a tattoo the weekend of my bachelorette! I know I want to have "live, laugh, love" and I think I may go with it on my ankle. It'll be covered for the wedding but is a cute, appropriate place to have it. I'm so excited!

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Thirty

30 days

240 invited
157 attending
50 declined

RSVPs left: 24

RSVPs from yesterday and today:
-my college professor and advisor, Bowling
-my former coworker, Chase, and his date, Kelly-Ann
-my college roomie, bestie, and maid of honor, Jules, and her boyfriend, Steve
-my college friend, Paul

I have a meeting tomorrow with Scott, so I'll be sure to update afterwards as to what went on.

Other than that, not much else wedding-related going on. Houston, we've hit a lull.

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

I'll Have That

32 days

240 invited
151 attending
50 declined

RSVPs left: 28

Two RSVPs today from my coworker, Jen, and her boyfriend, Brandon, and my cousin, Jill, her husband, Shane, and their son, Connor.

I have a meeting with our reception coordinator, Scott, on Friday at 5:45. We're going to go over the final details.

I also emailed Scott asking what the vegetarian meal was: wild mushroom raviolis in a white wine sauce! I may have to go with a vegetarian meal...

Monday, May 14, 2012

The Last Invite

33 days

240 invited
146 attending
50 declined

RSVPs left: 30

RSVPs today:
-my coworkers, Candy, Raidiris, and Jenna, and her boyfriend, Shane
-my college friend, Sam, and her boyfriend, Nick
-Matt's college friend, Amanda, and her boyfriend, Kyle

We got the invitation that Matt's mom made for our rehearsal dinner! It's very nice and the food choices are amazing! I'm so excited and this is all becoming so real!

Sunday, May 13, 2012

Violet Hill

Happy 11th Birthday to my sister and bridesmaid, Hannah!


And a Happy Mother's Day to my amazing mother and wonderful mother-in-law!

Saturday, May 12, 2012

Five Weeks

35 days

240 invited
139 attending
50 declined

RSVPs left: 36

Four verbal RSVPs today:
-my college friend, Tom, and his girlfriend (decline)
-my aunt, Kathy
-our ceremony coordinator, Pat (decline)
-our family friends' son, Joe (decline)

Five weeks, today, until the wedding!

I got my something old today from my gram: my great gramma Leab's pearl necklace! It's beautiful and a new tradition. My aunt and my great aunt both wore it in their weddings, so I'm continuing it! Here's a picture:

Friday, May 11, 2012

Homeward Bound

36 days

240 invited
138 attending
46 declined

RSVPs left: 40

One RSVP today from my college friend, Marci!

Other than that, nothing else wedding related to discuss. Matt and I are heading home tomorrow after he gets out of work for Mother's Day and my sister, Hannah's, birthday!

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Caesar Salad


37 days

234 invited
137 attending
46 declined

RSVPs left: 36

We FINALLY got two more RSVPs today...and they're both declines:
-Matt's college friend, John
-Matt's cousin, Andy, and his wife, Erin
I also got a verbal RSVP, a decline, from my former dance director/teacher, Susan, and her husband, Britton.


My bracelet from Lia Sophia came in today! It is SO pretty and will be perfect for the wedding!

We also got a wedding gift in the mail today from Greg and Liz! It's our salad bowl and servers from Crate and Barrel:



Now I just have to write them a thank you...

The house for the bachelorette fell through over the week and so now we are looking for something else. I've asked to do Providence on Friday night, staying at the Biltmore, and then Saturday in Boston for strippers!

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Cherry Bomb

Happy 24th Birthday to my great friend and maid of honor, Juliana!

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Suspended License

39 days

234 invited
137 attending
41 declined

RSVPs left: 40

My college friend, Declan, RSVPed to me verbally today since he lost his actual one: he's coming!

Matt and I weren't able to get our marriage license yesterday because Matt needs his birth certificate. We're going home this weekend for Mother's Day and Hannah's birthday so we'll pick it up then. And then we can get our license! So excited!

Matt has been looking and emailing other potential places to live. Hopefully we'll find something soon!!

Monday, May 7, 2012

Forty

40 days

234 invited
135 attending
41 declined

RSVPs left: 41

No new RSVPs today, but Matt and I went to see the Avengers tonight. AH-MAZ-ING!

Quick tonight, I bought a new bracelet for the wedding last night. I decided I wanted something different from the pearl bracelet. Here's a picture:

I can't wait to get it in and add it to my stash of wedding accessories!

Sunday, May 6, 2012

In Limbo

234 invited
135 attending
41 declined

RSVPs left: 41

One of my parents' friends' daughter and her husband RSVPed to me since apparently theirs got lost in Mail Limbo on its way back to us. They (Kristen and Gary) are unable to attend because they'll have Gary's son that weekend and will be traveling. Another RSVP off the list.

She Shoots, She Scores!

41 days

234 invited
135 attending
39 declined

I don't remember if I posted about this when it actually happened, so I'll do it now. My friend, Justin, who is making our cake for us, called me about the groom's cake I had asked him to make. He wanted to know how it should be decorated. I told him to keep it simple: make it a basketball! Matt loves basketball (although he thought the strike was ridiculous so he hasn't really watched any games this season) so I thought that would simply, yet fitting! I can't wait to see how it comes out...and to taste it! It's going to be like a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup: Matt's favorite thing!

I found these really cute keychain charms on Etsy to add to our mom's gifts for the weddings:


And I have two boxes packed! A bunch of living room decorations and a ton of books. Both boxes weigh somewhere in the range of 245457 pounds and will take three of me to carry anywhere.

Saturday, May 5, 2012

Six Weeks

42 days

234 invited
135 attending
39 declined

No RSVPs again today. Sigh...

Six weeks until the wedding! I can't believe it's so close!!

I started "packing" for the honeymoon. In other words, I threw all the dresses and skirts I wouldn't need until then into my suitcase. HA! And, yes, and my bathing suits since I won't be needing those either. It made more room in my closet, though, so I can unsquish all my other clothes and the girls' tote bags.

Matt and I decided last night that we're going to go Monday during my lunch break to get our marriage license! It's one of the last things that we need to do!

I'm going to start working a little more on the escort cards, putting colored stickers on the backs to represent which meals people chose.

I'm also trying to wear my wedding shoes around to break them in, although I may take Jess's advice and freeze them with water inside to stretch them out.

OH! And Happy Cinco de Mayo!!

Friday, May 4, 2012

Double Trouble

43 days

234 invited
135 attending
39 declined

We didn't get any actual RSVPs today, but Joanne (Matt's mom) has verbally given us a couple answers:
-Matt's uncle, Ed, and his wife, Barbara
-their sons, Dane and Nash (decline)
-Matt's grandpa, Cornelius (I LOVE that that's his name!)
We also went through and added our numbers and realized we were slightly off (obviously). So from this post on, we'll have the correct number!

I got my negligee from Frederick's! And, somehow, they sent me two but I only paid for one. Maybe I'll exchange one for something else...

Thursday, May 3, 2012

No Sir

44 days

222 invited
127 attending
34 declined

AGAIN no RSVPs. I'm not liking this slow trickle at all.

I got my dress in today from American Eagle! It is SO cute! I think I'm officially done shopping for the honeymoon. I'm just hoping my girls get me some cute lingerie for the bachelorette!

So I got an email the other day from the photobooth guy. He asked if we were sending in the deposit and still keeping the date. Um, NO! We sent it in months ago and it came back to us. I emailed him immediately and got no response. So, no, sir, we don't want your services.

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

Pressed

45 days

222 invited
127 attending
34 declined

And another no RSVP day. Sad Ashley.

However, we got our first wedding present today! It's our PANINI PRESS! So excited!! It's from my professor and advisor from college! He's the best!



Matt's gift from L.L.Bean came in today! I already told him what it was, but I'm still excited for him to open it!!

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Into Port

46 days

222 invited
127 attending
34 declined

No RSVPs today. :(

I forgot to mention yesterday that my passport came in! We are all set to go on the honeymoon now!

Monday, April 30, 2012

Altered State

47 days

222 invited
127 attending
34 declined

RSVPs today:
-my proxy godfather, Joel, and his wife, Stephanie
-my high school friend, Missy
-my college friend, Adri, and her boyfriend, Neal
I ordered a pretty (and sexy) satin nightie for the wedding night/honeymoon from Frederick's of Hollywood last night! Here's a picture, only I ordered it in black:



I had my alterations appointment tonight! Shannon went with me to take pictures as well as have her dress altered. Mine will be about $290, including a steaming to make the tulle look better. It's about half of what I would have paid at Alfred Angelo. Here's a great picture of the two of us:


 Someone bought our panini press off our registry today! I'm wicked excited because that was one of our favorite items!!

Sunday, April 29, 2012

Clothes Horse

48 days

222 invited
122 attending
34 declined

I updated our scrapbook with the hair trial and cake tasting pictures. I also updated our regular one with pictures from my former coworkers' party and Devon's Junior Districts concert.

Matt and I are going to (attempt to) start packing for the move. We want to clean a little, as well, but after the big breakfast we had it's looking a little difficult.

Tomorrow night I have my alterations! Shannon and I will be going to Ana's Bridal at 6 30 and I get to put my dress on again! I'll definitely have Shannon take pictures to post here and for my scrapbook as well.

Matt and I went to the mall yesterday and I bought a skirt for the honeymoon from American Eagle. It was $19.99 with an additional 30% plus we had another coupon for 15% off! Of course, I went to get a picture of it to put here and found another dress on their website that was on sale with the 30% off, so I bought it. Here are the pictures:



I'm so excited!! I also found a new body spray since Bath and Body Works discontinued my favorite one. I have the hand lotion and love it, so I bought Twilight Woods to wear on the wedding day (and whenever else). It's glitter spray, so I'll be sparkly for the wedding!!

Saturday, April 28, 2012

Short and Sweet

222 invited
122 attending
34 declined

No RSVPs today again. My mom did tell me that my aunt would be coming, but she has to send out her RSVP when she gets back to North Carolina.

We had our meeting with Father Al earlier. It went well, we gave him our Pre-Cana certificate and talked about the program. Then he talked a little about Jesus and the wedding (seriously) and going to confession before the wedding. Matt asked about writing our Prayer of the Faithful which made us realize that we should probably start it.

I picked up the pictures of my hair trial and our cake tasting, so I'll be able to put them in the scrapbook tomorrow since it's late.

Over the Moon

49 days

I called L.L.Bean this morning and they're sending us another package through the USPS! They said that if we get the other missing one to let them know, I said I'd send it back to them since we don't need two. At least we'll get it this time!!

Matt and I are going to do a little cleaning, shower, and start packing before our meeting with Father Al.

I worked on the scrapbooks this morning! I've been slacking a little bit. I'm going to have the hair trial pictures printed so that I can add them in.

Last, but definitely not least, we paid for the honeymoon!! The money went through and we called this morning to pay off the balance! We're officially ready for the honeymoon: the plane, the resort, and the hotel are all taken care of!

Friday, April 27, 2012

Fifty

50 days

222 invited
122 attending
34 declined

One RSVP today from my parents' good friends, Liz and Steve.

Matt and I went to the UPS location in Warwick to pick up our Crate and Barrel package today. It's from Alicia and Paula, two of my coworkers, and they got us another set of the Bistro Bowls as well as the Chip and Dip Set we wanted. Here's a picture of the chip and dip set:



Of course, after the ridiculousness with that package, I come home to an email saying Matt's gift was left at the front door by UPS. NO IT WAS NOT. This is not the first time it's happened and so I called them and they're investigating it. I better get this package, I am so over UPS and their issues. However, I have to say their national customer assistance is really nice and helpful.

Matt and I have a meeting with our officiant, Father Al, tomorrow. I'll be sure to post how it goes, although I honestly have no idea what it's about.

Thursday, April 26, 2012

About Time

51 days

222 invited
120 attending
34 declined

RSVPs today from my boss, Julie, and her husband, Patrick, and our family friends' son, Jeff (decline).

I came home to find a UPS InfoNotice on our door. A couple weeks ago, we had a package that couldn't be delivered from my coworker. (It's a shower gift.) Matt forgot to call/go online and have them hold it on the third day, so it got shipped back. My coworker called on Monday to see what was going on with it and they said that it was going to be delivered Tuesday. I got home on Tuesday and didn't have the notice. Same thing yesterday. I figured that it was just taking longer than the lady said. Nope. Today I see the notice and it was their FINAL DELIVERY attempt. Um, what the hell happened to leaving a notice all three times? These UPS drivers are assholes. I made sure that the first thing I did on the computer was tell them to hold it to pick up tomorrow.

I was looking through the seating chart and I've eliminated a whole table! I was able to combine two of the tables, so now I'm going to go through the other tables and make some changes.

Matt's gift shipped today! I can't wait to get it so I can give it to him!

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Day Three

52 days

222 invited
118 attending
33 declined

Third day in a row with no RSVPs. It makes me so sad when I open the mailbox and there are none.

I ordered Matt's gift today! It was only $22.95 and shipping was free! It should be here in 5 or less business days! I'm going to give it to him before the wedding, since it's for the honeymoon, so he can actually use it!

I don't know if I mentioned it the other day, but someone bought our camera for us off our registry! It's one of the few gifts I'm going to search for after the wedding so we can use it on the honeymoon! Here's a picture:

I'm super excited about my alterations on Monday! I can't wait to put my dress on again!

I also finished spray painting the rocks last night! They came out great!

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Drying Up

222 invited
118 attending
33 declined

AGAIN, no RSVPs. Seriously depressing.

I FINALLY started spray painting the rocks last night. They look perfect, so long as the paint won't wash off of them. I'll have to test that before putting them in the actual centerpieces...

I ordered a new bathing suit today for the honeymoon from Delia's. They sent me a coupon for 20% off, and I just HAD to use it. It's plain black, but super cute and will look good on me:


Monday, April 23, 2012

Lazy

54 days

222 invited
118 attending
33 declined

And yet another no RSVP day. These days are no fun.

I have yet to spray paint the rocks for the centerpieces. I'm really lazy lately and doing that would require not sitting on the couch, which is something I cannot bring myself to do. I'm going to really try to push myself to do it tonight.

Matt and I are still waiting to hear about everything for the condo. I'm praying that he gets pre-approved for the loan and qualifies for the assistance so we can get this place. If not, though, we've been looking at other apartments that are bigger. We've found quite a few that are either the same price or cheaper than we're paying now.

I decided that I'm going to get Matt another small gift for the wedding/honeymoon. I have a great L.L.Bean travel caddy for all my shower/personal stuff. I usually carry Matt's stuff in there as well, but for the honeymoon I don't think there'll be enough room. Therefore, I'm going to get him his own! Here's the one I think I'm going to get him:


I'll be the perfect size for his stuff. I'm also deciding whether or not to have it personalized (with just an M most likely) for an extra $8.

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Moon Money

55 days

222 invited
118 attending
33 declined

Matt got the money for the honeymoon yesterday and we deopsited it today! Once it clears (it was a $3000 check) we'll pay for the rest of the honeymoon! I'm so excited!

I called Ana Bridal the other day about my alterations next Monday (the 30th). I need to find out how much they're going to cost because they only accept cash. However, I was able to schedule Shannon's with me! I'm really excited to put my dress on again and I'll definitely have Shannon take some pictures for me!

Saturday, April 21, 2012

Mousey

56 days

222 invited
118 attending
33 declined

No RSVPs today which means I have to wait until at least Monday. So sad.

I scanned the postcard that we got from Minnie and Mickey so I could post it here:


On the back it says "Congratulations and Best Wishes! Love and kisses! Minnie Mouse, Your Pal, Mickey Mouse." So cute!!

I bought another small scrapbook for the RSVPs last night at Michael's and filled a page and a half already.

Friday, April 20, 2012

Mr. & Mrs. Mouse

57 days

222 invited
118 attending
33 declined

One RSVP today from my dance friend, Steph. PLUS we got a postcard from Minnie and Mickey! It's so cute!

I got my bridal shower photobook in the mail today! It came out great! I picked really good pictures even though they said some wouldn't translate well. They all look great!

My aunt also finally figured out who she was bringing to the wedding, so I was able to add his name to the list as well as make an escort card for them.

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Favored

59 days

222 invited
117 attending
30 declined

Currently working on: favors (192/192 done)

RSVPs today:
-my dance friend, Komal
-my friend from college, Jason

We went to the grocery store tonight and finally dropped off Nick's invitation. He lives in the same building as Ryan, so we talked to him and found out he never got his invitation. We got their RSVPs as yes, obviously, and their food choices, plus Ryan's plus one's name. So now we are up to 117 guests!!

Finished the favors tonight!! We bought more Hershey Kisses and Starburst Jellybeans to finish the last 21! Here are the jellybean ones:

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Sixty

60 days

222 invited
112 attending
30 declined

Currently working on: favors (171/192 done)

Only one RSVP today from Matt's former coworker, Shawn, and it was a decline.

I bought more Hershey Kisses for the favors today at Walmart. I finished another 30 which leaves only 21 left! I'm going to buy more candy tomorrow, maybe jelly beans, and finish them up! Here's pictures of the two new kinds (Skittles and Kisses):




Jules sent me a link to a wedding pictures from the Biltmore. It was really sweet of her and there were some good pictures in there. Click here to take a look!

I got an email that my bridal shower photobook shipped today! I'm so excited to see it!!

Monday, April 16, 2012

And Another

61 days

222 invited
112 attending
29 declined

RSVPs today:
-my coworker, Ana
-Matt's aunt, Julie
-my uncle, Jon, his wife, Teri, and his son (and my ring bearer), Cole
-Teri's sons, Evan and Liam (declined)
-my college friend, Ruthie

So we added another invitee, my coworker and her boyfriend. We started hanging out recently and are under our 200 limit, so I figured it was time to send her an invitation!

That's all for today, not much else wedding-related is happening.

Two to Tango

2 months until our wedding!!

Sunday, April 15, 2012

Silver Rocks

62 days

220 invited
106 attending
27 declined

I think I'm going to finally spray paint the rocks for the centerpieces today. It's gorgeous out so I can have all the windows open (and let all the bugs in) which means I won't get high off the fumes.

I switched the bubbles and fan baskets last night and it works much better. The bubbles fit perfectly in the smaller basket and the large one holds all the fans.

Matt and I started signing the letters for the out of town bags last night. He got annoyed so we had to stop , though. He drives me crazy sometimes, but I still love him.

Saturday, April 14, 2012

The Borrower

63 days

225 invited
106 attending
27 declined

RSVPs today:
-my former coworker from Gap, Katie
-Matt's parents' neighbors, Joe and Nellie, and their son and caretaker, Tom (declined)
-Matt's mom's friends, Liz and David
-Matt's cousins, Sean and Julie (declined)

I took Chase, one of our ushers, to get his tux measurements done today. After waiting for 30 plus minutes without being helped, we finally got him measured. Thankfully, the guy was young enough and knew how to measure and use the computer. Now, I just have to drag Ryan in to get his done.

When I got the mail, the rest of the fans had come in from Oriental Trading! I may have to switch the baskets for them and the bubbles, though.

I also got my something borrowed in the mail! My mom sent me one of my dad's name tags and here's a picture:


I also finally sent my mom the skirt for her dress! And then Chase pointed out that he was going back there tomorrow and could have brought it. Gee, thanks.

Last, the girls have found a potential house for the bachelorette! They're thinking this is the one which makes me so excited!!

Friday, April 13, 2012

One Hundred

64 days

225 invited
104 attending
22 declined

My Uncle Rick is the 100th guest at our wedding!

RSVPs today:
-my uncle Rick
-Matt's coworker, Amy, and her husband, Jeremy
-my friend and greeter at the ceremony, Alice

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Just One More

65 days

225 invited
99 attending
22 declined

One RSVP today from Matt's college friend, Tommy, and he's declined. He lives in Chicago and won't be able to make the trip. I'm seriously thinking it's because I want to break 100 guests. Come on, just one yes tomorrow!!

Matt's linen pants came in today! They're really nice and fit him perfectly! They'll be perfect for the honeymoon!!

After trying to stamp a fan last night, I realized it wasn't going to happen and so I stopped. Oh well.

Mom texted me today to say that my dad found a name tag of his from the Marines. She's sending it to me so I can sew it in my dress as my something borrowed! I love that I'll have my maiden name sewn into my dress!! Now I have to remind Gram to bring the necklace for my something old.

Last, I want to wish Matt good luck tomorrow at his interview! He's going in for an interview for a higher position with Verizon! Good luck baby! I love you!

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Fan Favors

66 days

225 invited
99 attending
21 declined

No RSVPs today...again! I bet it's because I'm really excited to break 100 guests. Or the mailman hates me.

I finally got the pins in today for the boutonnieres so I'm going to hot glue them on in a couple minutes. Simple pinning on the wedding day!

The red fans came in today! They're awesome! I just have to stamp them now.

AND I got my Sweet Potato Queens book (I LOVE them!!) for the honeymoon! I'm going to have to pack it so I don't start reading it now!

Last, I also made a photobook the other day of shower pictures! I'm going to buy it with my LivingSocial deal this weekend after we get paid!

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

For the Dads

67 days

225 invited
99 attending
21 declined

Currently working on: favors (141/192 done)

Matt is such a sweet heart! He picked up the skirt for my mom's dress today for me! I'm going to mail it to her tomorrow so that she can get it altered soon.

Our Vistaprint order came in today! In it were the totes that I had made for Pam and Natalie as gifts and the Father's Day cards that we made. We decided that since the day after our wedding is Father's Day, we wanted to give something to the dads attending our wedding. So we made cards on Vistaprint that we'll sign and hand out personally to each dad. We're also having a dance for them to dance with their daughters or wives.

Monday, April 9, 2012

Done Dressing!

68 days

225 invited
99 attending
21 declined

Currently working on: favors (141/192 done)

RSVPs today:
-my mom's friend, Anne, her husband, Jerry, and her daughter, Avery (decline)
-my college friend, Emily, and her boyfriend Jeremy
-Matt's aunt, Lisa
-my coworker, Paula, and her husband, Frank

The skirt for my mom's dress came in today! Matt and I are going to pick it up tomorrow after work since we had other things to do tonight. That will be the official end of dresses! Now we all just have to have alterations done!

I was in the mall today to deposit a couple checks and saw that the old nail place that I used to go to had reopened under a new name! It looks nice and will be great for all our nail appointments the day before the wedding. I'll try it out this weekend and see if I can schedule our appointments.

Matt and I submitted our reservation to McFadden's for our after party after the reception. They'll be contacting him soon about it!

Saturday, April 7, 2012

Seventy

70 days

225 invited
94 attending
18 declined

Currently working on: favors (141/192 done)

RSVPs today:
-my great-grandparents, John and Florence, declined because of John's health
-my former Gap coworker, Jackie
-Matt's college friends and roommates, Kate and Kim

Matt and I went to pick up my mom's dress this morning. They still hadn't gotten the skirt in, but at least we got the top which will need more alterations anyway. We also went to Walmart and grabbed some Skittles and Hershey Kisses for the favors. I finished quite a few of them today!

I went to Michael's in search of something to replace the silver glitter rocks in some of the centerpieces since they float. I found river rocks and I'm going to try spray paiting them silver. (Hopefully the paint won't wash off in the water.) I also bought more ribbon for the favors as well as a basket for the fans. Last, I bought a scrapbook for the RSVPs which I've started to glue in.

I ordered the fans for the ceremony favors today! I got 180 total: 14 sets of 12 from Oriental Trading in orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, and pink and a set 12 in red from ebay. The ones from Oriental Trading only cost me $35 with the gift card, reward certificate, and free shipping code! I also had a reward certificate for ebay, so I only paid $4 for the red fans! When they come in, I'll start stamping on the actual fan!

And I finally remembered to go to Staples and pick up the hard copies of the Purple Issue! Only took me a week.

Friday, April 6, 2012

M&My Favor-ite

71 days

225 invited
91 attending
16 declined

One RSVP today from Matt's mother's friend, Joyce, who declined.

I started putting M&Ms in the boxes last night after I finished putting them all together. They look really cute all put together! Here's a picture:


Matt and I also decided that we're going to add a couple other candies to the favors. The M&Ms we got won't be enough for all 200 favors, so we're going to have to buy more candy anyway. We're definitely doing Skittles (Original with the pink and blue from the Wildberry probably) and Hershey Kisses and maybe Wonka's Nerds.

The top to my mom's dress came in so I'm going to pick up tomorrow. Here's hoping that the bottom is in by then!

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

One Month Later

73 days

225 invited
91 attending
15 declined

Another one RSVP day from my high school friend, Steph. And in the mail with it? Nick's invitation. Now I have to drop it off with his very late Christmas card. Seriously USPS? A month after we sent them out, we get one back? Ridiculous.

I'm sending out invitations tomorrow to the President, Mickey and Minnie, and Beauty and the Beast! I can't wait to see what we get back from them!

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Spice It Up

74 days

225 invited
90 attending
15 declined

Only one RSVP today from Matt's college friend and former Friar mascot for the hockey team, CJ, and his girlfriend, Andrea.

We got our spice rack from my great aunt Barb today! We filled all the jars and put it on a shelf for now. I seriously cannot wait to move so we have room for everything. Speaking of which, Matt called Navigant today and is meeting with the realtor and housing assistance on Friday to see about a mortgage for the condo. Let's hope that we get good news!!

Here's a picture of the spice rack:



I renewed my passport today! It only took about 15 minutes, but cost me a total of $150. However, I'll be all set to go to Jamaica for our honeymoon!

Monday, April 2, 2012

Diamond White Anniversary

75 days

225 invited
88 attending
15 declined

RSVPs today:
-my coworker, Paris
-my good friend from college, Diana, and her boyfriend, Brandon
-my brother's godparents (and my parents friends), Mark and Pam
-Matt's aunt, uncle, and cousin; Jen, Bill, and Alicia
-my friends from high school, Jeff and Katie
-my friend from college and groomsman, Nick, and his girlfriend, Cat

I started putting together the boxes for the favors last night! (They came in flat and I just had to fold them into a box.) It's a good thing, too, because our purple and pink M&Ms came in today!! I'm going to mix in half of each bag to see if that looks alright. I don't want to use them all in case we need to buy more of the big bags of M&Ms.

We sent out the last three invitations tonight! I'm thinking about sending out ones to the president and Beauty and the Beast, too, but haven't quite decided.

Sunday, April 1, 2012

Saturday, March 31, 2012

Orange Ya Glad?

Happy 25th Birthday to Matt's friend and groomsman, Ryan!

For the Groom

77 days

222 invited
78 attending
15 declined

RSVPs today from my cousin, Alex and his girlfriend, Katlyn, and my former Gap coworker Amanda and her husband Brian. Sadly, my friend from college Mike has declined coming because he has a family event that weekend. But we'll be seeing him at some point!

Went today to pick up Matt's mom's dress! It is the most gorgeous blue!! Now we're just waiting on my mom's which the store was calling about to see why it hadn't shipped yet.

I got the rest of the jewelry for our readers, greeters, and gift bearers yesterday! Again, I nailed it! AND I got Matt's gift as well! His cufflinks are absolutely amazing! I can't wait until he sees them the night before the wedding!



Matt's mom has booked the rehearsal dinner at Waterplace in downtown Providence. It's a great restaurant and sits right over the river. Absolutely gorgeous!

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Patent Leather

79 days

220 invited
75 attending
14 declined

RSVPs today:
-my friend from high school, Mitch, and his girlfriend, Sam
-Matt's cousin, Jake
-my friend from dance, Amanda

Another quickish entry tonight. I got three pieces of jewelry in today from Lia Sophia! Three of the four necklaces for my readers and greeters and they are beauitful! I'm really happy with what I picked out!

Yesterday I got Olivia's shoes in as well. I just have to have her try them on to make sure they fit!

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Clutched

80 days

220 attending
71 attending
14 declined

RSVPs today were form my coworker, Joe, and my former coworker from the Gap, Cristhal!

Just a short post tonight to say that I got our mothers' clutches in today! They are wicked nice and I can't wait to give them to our moms! We also got the orange sofa bed from Matt's mom and sister for the shower. Matt put it together and rearranged the living room to fit it in. I love it! Now I'm going to start hunting for some pillows for it...

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Purple Rain

81 days

220 invited
69 attending
14 declined

I finished the purple issue of our newsletter! It's been published on the website and now I'll post it here! I'll be printing my copy soon and then emailing them on April 1! Only one more issue to go!



I got an email today that Matt's gift got sent out today! I can't wait to see them!!