Disney Girls Wedding

Blog doctor needed ……. enter Laura & Pink Flamingo Designs

2010-06-15T11:45:00.001+10:00

I have tried my best to fix up all the technical & coding issues with my blog but alas I can not …instead I have enlisted the help of Laura from Pink Flamingo Designs‏ to help. I am hoping that once we recreate the template, the heading will all come back, everything will fall back into chronological order and the missing entries & pictures will once again appear….. that’s the plan anyway !

In the mean time I am so sorry that some of the info is dropping out and that all the Disney information is not showing up, as soon as it can be fixed it will :)

Hunter Wedding Recap - Finalising last minute details & rehearsals

2010-01-28T20:38:00.011+11:00

What wedding would be complete with a few last minute “challenges” aka dramas !

We had an event filled few days prior to our Hunter wedding with broken water pipes, the brunch venue cancelling on us, the cake store forgetting to make our cup cakes, cookies and the cake (as they were so focused on the topper), the suit store lost the boys suits, the party hire company cancelled our entire decoration order (not just the tiffany chairs), I fired our make up artist after some not so sensational behaviour and then 11th hour guest changes meant seating cards, place cards & table signs could no longer be used and all the hours of work that went into them wasted.

Thankfully as we had been so organised prior to leaving we had the time to sort out all the problems before the wedding, but it did get a little hairy at times.

Our accommodation in Rothbury

Ceremony Rehearsal

I am so glad I insisted on a ceremony rehearsal and to those that though it was completely unnecessary – insert *told you so dance* here !!!!

Rehearsal Dinner

Our rehearsal dinner was great as it allowed us all to spend time together before all the other guests arrived.

Hunter Wedding Video Sneak Peak

2009-12-27T14:50:00.003+11:00

Finally the sneak peak of our wedding video !!!!!!

http://www.sodafilms.com.au/clients/dunn/

Username: dunn

Password: 141109

Wedding Week Commences ...............

2009-11-11T20:23:00.063+11:00

OMG ! we have finally arrived !!!

For the next week this is our home ..... aka wedding central !!

I love this house already ! I have found some great spots for wedding day photos, heaps of room for all our last minute projects, however the best thing has to be the home theatre room to keep DF and the groomsmen entertained !!!

2009-10-29T01:48:00.001+11:00

*

2009-10-27T13:26:00.002+11:00

Welcome Bags – Hunter Reception

2009-10-18T11:38:00.002+11:00

I have been planning our welcome bags for months, it’s one of my favourite wedding projects and today with the help of a great mate, we worked all day & finished them finally !!!

I wanted to make a goodie bag filled with treats & all the little things you might have forgotten or would like when arriving at a hotel. Now the tricky part …. quantity & cost ….. we have to make 70 and have a budget of $8.50 per bag MAX ! I had some great ideas of what I could include but things could get expensive quickly, so I had to think of fun & creative ways to fill up the bags on a budget.

I have dropped the canvas bag idea and gable boxes are out too as they are both expensive, instead I have opted for a natural brown bag with a big welcome sticker on the front.

For the contents we called in a favors, changed & swapped out items & bought in bulk to save on the cost but not quality.

1 x Mini bottle of Pink blush champagne $ 4.50
1 x Mini bottle of coke $0.95
2 x plastic wine glasses $free
1 x pkt kettle chips $0.95
1 x Block of Cadbury chocolate $1.40
1 x pkt of Wine charms (DIY)
1 x tube of local hunter valley jam $1.00
1 x pkt of Disney Princess tissues $ 0.10
1 x pkt of Disney Princess tissues $ 0.10
2 x pkts of chewing gum $free
1 x tube of cocoa butter hand crème $free
1 x mini bottle of hand sanitiser $free
1 x local information pack, map, brochures & weekend schedule

The final contents & cost $9.00 per bag

Unfortunately the pictures aren’t that great but I will take more and replace them when I have a chance.

Our Finished Invitations (Home Reception)

2009-10-14T23:10:00.014+11:00

Although they have end up quite different to what I had planned in the beginning, instead of rustic wine corks & copper wire they are lace & ribbon, I actually really like them. I though I would hate that they are not all the same but it has really grown on me and now they feel a lot more personalised too.

The biggest difference is the outer wrapper as some have chocolate or natural wood grain paper & some have a soft chocolate tissue paper

Inside

Main Invitation & enclosures

Envelopes

Disney Cruise Pack

2009-09-15T23:35:00.013+10:00

Our Disney Wedding Invitation & information pack for our Disney Cruise Guests, it has a newsletter, DVD on the ship & details of ports we will stop in, postcard, pen & invite ofcourse.

We have our Invitations supplies !!!!!

2009-08-22T17:18:00.002+10:00

We have our Invitations supplies !!!!!

I found two great bargains today at the Stitches & Craft Show, first almost an exact replica of the designer lace I love, only this one was on sale at $1.28 per meter vs. the expensive one at $22.95 per meter. As each invite needed ½ meter the designer lace is out & the new lace is IN.

Then I found a mixed bag with two types of textured A4 paper, one was soft like tissue paper, the other very thick & rough, and only a $1 per sheet. This will be perfect for wrapping the invites, before the go in the envelope.

I decided to cheat and I purchased the chocolate envelopes from cards & pockets for $1.05 each. It saved heaps of time and was cheaper than if I had made the pockets myself.

I found textured thick card stock paper in crème & purchased it in bulk $42 The A7 & C6 envelopes I purchased from an invitation store, 200 in total for $66 I couldn’t find a green that worked with the new design and chose a brushed metallic paper instead. 2 Invitations per A4 sheet = 50 were $38.50

Ribbon – I have heaps of left over pink ribbon from our pink ribbon fundraiser

Pearls – I picked up a bag of pearl bears to thread onto the ribbon (to jazz it up a little) $2.49.

Seals – I used a variety of seals I had left over from other projects, I needed 200 in total and only needed to buy one box for $15.95

Here are all the supplies

Checklist update - 3 months

2009-08-14T16:53:00.006+10:00

I can't believe how quickly our 3 month coundown has arrived !!! only 88 days of planning left and so much still to do !!!

12 Months - completed! WOOO HOOOO
 Set Wedding Date
 Set preliminary budget
 Visit ceremony sites
 Research and visit reception locations
 Meet with different officiates
 Decide whether you want to have a band or DJ
 Think about a color scheme or wedding theme
 Meet with and book a Day of Coordinator (DOC)
 Have your engagement ring appraised and Insured
 Begin to think about bridal party
 Groom – begin to think about bridal party
 Start shopping for Wedding Dress ideas
 Sent out engagement announcements
 Engagement Party
 Create Wedding website
 Attend Bridal Shows/Showcases
 Make a list of vendors to contact
 Prepare preliminary guest list
 Set final budget
 Select a ceremony location
 Select a reception location
 Select an officiate
 Select a photographer
 Select a videographer
 Organise accommodation for guests
 Organise accommodation for us
 Finalise color scheme or wedding theme
 Think about centerpieces & bouquets
 Meet with different bands or DJ’s and select one
 Select and ask bridal party members
 Groom – select and ask groomsmen and best man
 Make up & send Save the Date’s (along with guest information)
 Think about where we want gift register
 Begin your honeymoon research
 Start wedding fitness program

9 Months - 14/23 completed
 Select a florist (bring pictures and floral ideas to appointment)
 Think about number & type of cars
 Give maid of honor the guest list for your bridal shower
 Send bridesmaid newsletter – DIY Project
 Create gift registry
 Add gift registry details to wedding website
 Book your honeymoon started
 Finalise guest list
 Disney ceremony Save the Dates
 Select and order/make invitations – DIY Project
 Purchase stamps for invitations (have them weighed)
 Purchase envelope seals – DIY Project
 Order mother of the bride/groom dresses
 Give all vendor information to DOC (address, contracts, phone numbers, etc.)
 Purchase tiara/headpiece/hairpins
 Order veil
 Engagement shoot (booked for Sept)
 Purchase wedding insurance
 Purchase table cameras
 Order your wedding gown
 Order bridesmaids gowns
 Order flower girl dresses
 Schedule Laser Hair Removal appointment

6 Months - 4/17 completed
 Select & book cars - cancelled
 Order Cookies
 Schedule hair trials
 Schedule makeup trials
 Arrange guest transportation
 Buy your shower outfit
 Check passports
 Update your registry and check for any discontinued items
 Shop for and order wedding rings
 Purchase wedding day jewelry
 Purchase cake serving set
 Purchase toasting flutes
 Purchase ring pillow
 Begin taking dancing lessons
 Start facials
 Select and order wedding cake
 Plan ceremony (writing vows, music selections, readings, etc.)
 Send out 1st edition WDW Cruise newsletter

4 Months - 11/20 completed
 Order / make bridal shower thank you cards – DIY Project
 Purchase / make ceremony decorations (pew bows, personalized aisle runner, etc.) – DIY Project
 Shop for, order or make favors
 Order / make tags & custom labels for favors – DIY Project
 Start wedding gown fittings
 Decide what kind of bustle you want (one point, two point, French, etc.)
 Purchase all undergarments for your gown including a slip, stocking, garters, etc.
 Purchase throw away garter
 Purchase wedding day shoes
 Purchase comfortable shoes for reception (slippers, sneakers, flip flops, etc.)
 Purchase bridal party shoes and have them dyed if needed
 Purchase a guest book or frame for sign in picture
 Purchase cake topper
 Schedule ceremony rehearsal
 Book rehearsal dinner location
 Order / make rehearsal dinner invitations – DIY Project
 Decide where you want to take photos after the ceremony
 Plan back up locations for ceremony and photo sessions in case of rain
 Purchase flower girl basket
 Order monogrammed napkins and matches

3 Months - 0/24 completed
 Attend bridal shower
 Send out bridal shower thank you cards
 Buy any ribbon or packaging you will need to wrap wedding favors
 Purchase bridal party gifts
 Purchase bridal party jewellery
 Purchase Bridesmaids shoes
 Purchase Bridesmaids clutch
 Purchase flower girl shoes
 Purchase flower girl clutch
 Purchase flower girl jewellery & tiara
 Purchase flower girl gifts
 Purchase ring bearer gifts
 Purchase parent gifts
 Meet with officiate and go over ceremony in detail
 Purchase or make ceremony programs
 Send out invitations (don’t forget to have them hand cancelled)
 Groom - order tuxes and have all groomsmen
measured
 Groom – buy groomsmen and best man gifts
 Meet with reception location and finalise menu
 Order grooms cake
 Send out rehearsal dinner invitations
 Purchase items for slipper basket (slippers, baskets, ribbon, bags, tags)
 Schedule hair color appointment for week before wedding
 Meet with florist and finalize floral details - how many centerpieces, bouquets, boutonnieres, place card table arrangement. Also design and types of flowers and view/approve sample centerpiece
 Order table linens and check on tiffany chairs & colours
 Organise Popcorn Bar (glass jars, popcorn, bags, scoops & signage)
 Purchase items for place cards
 Send out 2nd edition WDW Cruise newsletter
 Send out 2nd edition Bridal Party Newsletter

2 Months - 0/39 completed
 Arrange for Photo session in WDW
 Arrange for photo session in NYC
 Arrange & purchase Honeymoon add ons / check Honeymoon register
 Check on DCL reception location & order cake
 Check on guest list for WDW and send out information packs to those attending
 Shop for honeymoon clothes
 Shop for items that will go in out of town gift bags
 Wrap and finish all favors
 Make petal cones & ceremony packs
 Select first dance song, bridal party entrance songs, mother/father dance songs, cake cutting songs, etc. and give to Band or DJ
 Create must play and do not play list and give to Band or DJ
 Organise vendor information packs (contact numbers, instructions, photo’s)
 Write up vendor questionnaire (meals, allergy requests)
 Finalise seating arrangements
 Prepare must take photo list (& samples) give to photographer
 Make final vendor appointments & distribute information packs
 Host bridesmaid’s lunch
 Make or order menus for table – DIY Project
 Make or order table number – DIY Project
 Purchase stands (easels) for table numbers
 Break in wedding day shoes
 Make sure you have something, old, new, borrowed and blue
 Give MOH list of people for Bachelorette party
 Get together pictures you want displayed at reception (baby pictures, engagement pictures, family wedding photos, etc.)
 Buy frames for pictures
 Purchase or make card box / money bag for gifts
 Purchase baskets for programs
 Purchase petal cone basket
 Purchase all items for bathroom baskets
 Shop for honeymoon necessities such as sunscreen, bug spray, beach towels, etc.
 Have second dress fitting
 Have teeth whitened
 Buy a wedding gift for h2b
 Organise welcome party at Crown
 Organise Sunday brunch & how/when supplies will be delivered & stored
 Think about contingency plan for brunch in case of bad weather
 Groom – have a discussion with your best man about his responsibilities
 Groom – buy a wedding gift for your b2b
 Groom – give list of guys you wanted invited to your Bachelor party to your best man

1 Month - 0/18 completed
 Finalise wedding day hair ( also MOB, MOH and bridesmaids)
 Finalise wedding day make up ( also MOB, MOH and bridesmaids)
 Organise DOC to have midnight snack delivered to our room
 Prepare out of town welcome bags – DIY Project
 Make place cards for reception – DIY Project
 Write up DOC information pack, run sheet & instructions
 Meet with DOC to go over Wedding day timeline
 Call guest's who have not RSVP'd
 Attend Bachelorette party
 Obtain marriage license
 Prepare bathroom baskets
 Have final dress fitting
 Arrange boarding for scratchie
 Honeymoon - organise DOC & travel agent to make call to check for honeymoon" reservations
 Make sure your engagement ring and wedding band are on your home insurance policy
 Call WDW Florist & have welcome pack sent to Hotel rooms
 Groom – attend Bachelor Party
 Organise packing for Wedding & Honeymoon - See Travel Checklist
 Send out Final WDW Cruise newsletter
 Send out Final Bridal Party Newsletter

2 Weeks - 0/15 completed
 Have final hair color appointment for wedding
 Meet with and give final payment to all vendors (go over all details and day of timeline with them for the wedding day)
 Double confirm honeymoon reservations and travel arrangements
 Arrange for transportation to the airport
 Prepare day of emergency kit
 Prepare any speeches or toasts for rehearsal dinner
 Designate someone to overnight your bouquet for floral preservation
 Give bridal party wedding day packs
 Wrap bridal party gifts
 Write thank you card to all bridesmaids and maid of honor
 Designate DOC to pack up all items from reception after the wedding to take home
 Pick up wedding gown from bridal salon
 Make sure you have all bags and items for honeymoon ready (passport, airline tickets, travelers checks, etc.)
 Groom – email groomsmen and best man with wedding day timeline and all info needed for wedding day
 Groom – arrange breakfast for groomsmen and best man for wedding day

Week Before - 0/6 completed
 Give reception location final count/seating chart of people attending
 Make sure programs, menus, place cards, etc. are all completed
 Have rings cleaned for wedding day
 Have a massage to relax
 Groom – get your hair cut and a manicure
 Groom – go with groomsmen & best man to pick up suits.

A Few Days Before - 0/14 completed
 Prepare and drop off box to the reception with accessories such as guest book, table cameras, toasting glasses, cake topper, menus, favors, etc
 Prepare and drop off OOT boxes to Hotels
 Place tips for each vendor in envelopes
 Make sure wedding gown and veil are pressed and have no wrinkles
 Arrange DOC to coordinate breakfast for wedding day when we are getting ready
 Go for waxing appointment
 If you did not go for weekly tanning go for airbrush tanning
 Bring all items to ceremony location (unity candle, programs, cry packs, etc.)
 Attend ceremony rehearsal
 Attend rehearsal dinner
 Bring camera to rehearsal dinner
 Check on supplies for Sunday Brunch & ask DOC to get anything that is missing
 Groom – speak with offending family member re loading of photo’s onto public forums
 Groom – give tip envelopes to best man to be handed out

Day Before - 0/4 completed
 Go get manicure and pedicure with bridesmaids
 Lay out all wedding items (jewellery, shoes, stockings, dress, veil, tiara/headpiece/hairpins, handbag with powder and lipstick, etc.)
 Groom – give rings to best man
 Attend Welcome Party

Day Of - 0/2 completed
 Put petals in petal cones for ceremony
 RELAX, HAVE A GRREAT DAY

Day After - 0/5 completed
 Attend weekend brunch
 Bouquet is sent for floral preservation
 Put top of wedding cake in freezer
 Special thanks to Bridal party & parents
 Take table cameras to be printed
 Groom – make sure all tuxes get back to tuxedo shop

2 Weeks After - 0/4 completed
 Have gown preserved
 Begin name change process
 Have favourite wedding photo framed
 Send honeymoon pictures & song selections to videographer
 Send vendor reviews & thank you's

The Invitation Quandary

2009-08-10T00:33:00.000+10:00

Getting my gorgeous, absolutely perfect invitations (that I had been dreaming about for the last 3 years) vs our budget. This was a tricky one, as stationery is my obsession, I love it! and you can never have too much of it in my opinion. The thought of sacrificing my perfect invitations, for the big bad budget man was not something that was happening without a fight, the cake would go first!

So recap what invitations did I want… chocolate brown textured pockets with 4 inserts & the main invitation panel (all on crème card stock with a sage backing page).

Around the outside of the pocket envelope I was going to wrap a band of textured paper (in a natural shade) and have a split wine cork with twisted copper around it as the centre piece.

To keep them safe I was going to put them in boxes with paper wood shavings. They were going to be gorgeous only problem ….. COST.

A while back I realised that if I was going to pull off two jobs, two weddings & planning an international trip for 10 people, certain things were going to have to go, especially as I don’t have an army of BM’s in the wings, DIY absolutely every project was out.

So we bit the bullet and got several quotes………….. the best of which came back at $38.45 per invitation !! before postage, so added to this was $5.60 per invite to post, plus 0.55 for the RSVP ……… ahhhhh $44.60 per invite x 100 is definitely NOT in our budget.

So with no choice but to find a cheaper option, I cut the cost per invite in half with 3 things:

1) DIY on this project was essential
2) Invitations had to be mailed in envelopes & not boxes (which reduced the postage cost from a total of $615 to $165.
3) The cork & copper wire idea was out and I was planning on just sticking our monogram sticker over the front fold, to keep them closed.
I was disappointed but already had saved over ½ the cost from the best quote. So now I need to collect the supplies:
* Chocolate pocket fold envelopes
* Crème card Stock
* Sage backing card stock
* A7 Envelopes
* C6 envelopes (for the RSVP)
* Ribbon
Depending on how much the materials cost, hopefully I will be able to add some sparkle & extra bling.

Bridal Party Newsletters

2009-07-17T22:53:00.005+10:00

With so much happening and our bridal party spread far & wide, I am writing up a newsletter to keep everyone included & in the loop on plans & deadlines.

We wanted to include the kids as well so we have made them up their own special newsletter, with information only on things that involve them & what will happen on our wedding day, plus games & puzzles.

Bridesmaid Shopping Day

2009-06-26T19:07:00.009+10:00

We had our first official Bridesmaid’s shopping day to look for dress styles & colours we liked. As the studio we were going to was a few hours drive away I made up shopping bags for the girls with the necessities we would need for our road trip.

First was our style card, especially as one of the girls is overseas and couldn’t join us, I wanted to keep all our measurements and choices together so we could refer to them later.

And what trip would be complete without champers!

Bad bad blogger !

2009-06-26T18:38:00.011+10:00

I have been a bad bad blogger ! working & wedding planning have been keeping me so busy, with so much to catch up on a few picture posts should speed things along :)

Popcorn Bar … now with a little candy & cookies too ♥

2009-06-05T12:28:00.017+10:00

Our popcorn (and now candy & cookie) bar is beginning to take shape!

Luckily I love vases and have quite a few we can use, and thus far (apart from the two I bought for our engagement party - the big ones at the far back) I haven’t had to purchase any :)

So this is what I have at the moment and I probably would have stayed with configuration, if not for a few candy & cookie items I have found and now have to include.

First up, while on Mindy Weiss’s blog last week I saw …… new Disney Fairies, Princess & Princess wedding M&M’s. I love the personalised ones with your photo on them and was thinking of getting some of these for our home reception. But now I think I have to get the Princess & Princess wedding ones instead

#2 our cake maker offered to make blue bird cookies to match our cake – I don’t have a picture but this is similar, hopefully ours will look more like Disney Bluebirds

#3 Lollipops - can't go past some princess swirl and Mickey face lollipops

#4 Mickey ears pretzels – we love these, they are amazing!!!!! They remind me of our trips to Anaheim so we can’t go past these.

But now I am stuck how many jars/vases is too many? How many more (if any) I should get, and what size or shape to make them? Should I separate the popcorn/candy or just mix the vases in together?

Flower Girl Basket & Ring Pillow

2009-05-28T20:38:00.006+10:00

My flower girl basket & ring pillow arrived today from Wedding Star and they fit in perfectly for both our wedding and Hunter reception.

I am so pleased, they are perfect and the kids are going to love them ! !

Checklist update - 6 months

2009-05-25T21:27:00.012+10:00

With 184 days to the wedding and only 180 days of planning left !!! Here is where we are at…..

12 Months - 35/35 completed! WOOO HOOOO
 Set Wedding Date
 Set preliminary budget
 Visit ceremony sites
 Research and visit reception locations
 Meet with different officiates
 Decide whether you want to have a band or DJ
 Think about a color scheme or wedding theme
 Meet with and book a Day of Coordinator (DOC)
 Have your engagement ring appraised and Insured
 Begin to think about bridal party
 Groom – begin to think about bridal party
 Start shopping for Wedding Dress ideas
 Sent out engagement announcements
 Engagement Party
 Create Wedding website
 Attend Bridal Shows/Showcases
 Make a list of vendors to contact
 Prepare preliminary guest list
 Set final budget
 Select a ceremony location
 Select a reception location
 Select an officiate
 Select a photographer
 Select a videographer
 Organise accommodation for guests
 Organise accommodation for us
 Finalise color scheme or wedding theme
 Think about centerpieces & bouquets
 Meet with different bands or DJ’s and select one
 Select and ask bridal party members
 Groom – select and ask groomsmen and best man
 Make up & send Save the Date’s (along with guest information)
 Think about where we want gift register
 Begin your honeymoon research
 Start wedding fitness program

9 Months - 14/23 completed
 Select a florist (bring pictures and floral ideas to appointment)
 Think about number & type of cars
 Give maid of honor the guest list for your bridal shower
 Send bridesmaid newsletter – DIY Project
 Create gift registry
 Add gift registry details to wedding website
 Book your honeymoon started
 Finalise guest list
 Disney ceremony Save the Dates
 Select and order/make invitations – DIY Project
 Purchase stamps for invitations (have them weighed)
 Purchase envelope seals – DIY Project
 Order mother of the bride/groom dresses
 Give all vendor information to DOC (address, contracts, phone numbers, etc.)
 Purchase tiara/headpiece/hairpins
 Order veil
 Engagement shoot (booked for Sept)
 Purchase wedding insurance
 Purchase table cameras
 Order your wedding gown
 Order bridesmaids gowns
 Order flower girl dresses
 Schedule Laser Hair Removal appointment

6 Months - 2/17 completed
 Select & book cars
 Order Cookies
 Schedule hair trials
 Schedule makeup trials
 Arrange guest transportation
 Buy your shower outfit
 Check passports
 Update your registry and check for any discontinued items
 Shop for and order wedding rings
 Purchase wedding day jewelry
 Purchase cake serving set
 Purchase toasting flutes
 Purchase ring pillow
 Begin taking dancing lessons
 Start facials
 Select and order wedding cake
 Plan ceremony (writing vows, music selections, readings, etc.)

4 Months - 1/20 completed
 Order / make bridal shower thank you cards – DIY Project
 Purchase / make ceremony decorations (pew bows, personalized aisle runner, etc.) – DIY Project
 Shop for, order or make favors
 Order / make tags & custom labels for favors – DIY Project
 Start wedding gown fittings
 Decide what kind of bustle you want (one point, two point, French, etc.)
 Purchase all undergarments for your gown including a slip, stocking, garters, etc.
 Purchase throw away garter
 Purchase wedding day shoes
 Purchase comfortable shoes for reception (slippers, sneakers, flip flops, etc.)
 Purchase bridal party shoes and have them dyed if needed
 Purchase a guest book or frame for sign in picture
 Purchase cake topper
 Schedule ceremony rehearsal
 Book rehearsal dinner location
 Order / make rehearsal dinner invitations – DIY Project
 Decide where you want to take photos after the ceremony
 Plan back up locations for ceremony and photo sessions in case of rain
 Purchase flower girl basket
 Order monogrammed napkins and matches

3 Months - 0/24 completed
 Attend bridal shower
 Send out bridal shower thank you cards
 Buy any ribbon or packaging you will need to wrap wedding favors
 Purchase bridal party gifts
 Purchase bridal party jewellery
 Purchase flower girl jewellery
 Purchase flower girl tiara
 Purchase flower girl gifts
 Purchase ring bearer gifts
 Purchase parent gifts
 Meet with officiate and go over ceremony in detail
 Purchase or make ceremony programs
 Send out invitations (don’t forget to have them hand cancelled)
 Groom - order tuxes and have all groomsmen measured
 Groom – buy groomsmen and best man gifts
 Meet with reception location and finalise menu
 Order grooms cake
 Send out rehearsal dinner invitations
 Purchase items for slipper basket (slippers, baskets, ribbon, bags, tags)
 Schedule hair color appointment for week before wedding
 Meet with florist and finalize floral details - how many centerpieces, bouquets, boutonnieres, place card table arrangement. Also design and types of flowers and view/approve sample centerpiece
 Order table linens and check on tiffany chairs & colours
 Organise Popcorn Bar (glass jars, popcorn, bags, scoops & signage)
 Purchase items for place cards (votives, votive holders, vellum and vellum tape for votive place cards)

2 Months - 0/39 completed
 Arrange for Photo session in WDW
 Arrange for photo session in NYC
 Arrange & purchase Honeymoon add ons / check Honeymoon register
 Check on WDW reception location & order cake
 Check on guest list for WDW and send out information packs to those attending
 Shop for honeymoon clothes
 Shop for items that will go in out of town gift bags
 Wrap and finish all favors
 Make petal cones & ceremony packs
 Select first dance song, bridal party entrance songs, mother/father dance songs, cake cutting songs, etc. and give to Band or DJ
 Create must play and do not play list and give to Band or DJ
 Organise vendor information packs (contact numbers, instructions, photo’s)
 Write up vendor questionnaire (meals, allergy requests)
 Finalise seating arrangements
 Prepare must take photo list (& samples) give to photographer
 Make final vendor appointments & distribute information packs
 Host bridesmaid’s lunch
 Make or order menus for table – DIY Project
 Make or order table number – DIY Project
 Purchase stands (easels) for table numbers
 Break in wedding day shoes
 Make sure you have something, old, new, borrowed and blue
 Give MOH list of people for Bachelorette party
 Get together pictures you want displayed at reception (baby pictures, engagement pictures, family wedding photos, etc.)
 Buy frames for pictures
 Purchase or make card box / money bag for gifts
 Purchase baskets for programs
 Purchase petal cone basket
 Purchase all items for bathroom baskets
 Shop for honeymoon necessities such as sunscreen, bug spray, beach towels, etc.
 Have second dress fitting
 Have teeth whitened
 Buy a wedding gift for h2b
 Organise welcome party at Crown
 Organise Sunday brunch & how/when supplies will be delivered & stored
 Think about contingency plan for brunch in case of bad weather
 Groom – have a discussion with your best man about his responsibilities
 Groom – buy a wedding gift for your b2b
 Groom – start weekly tanning sessions
 Groom – give list of guys you wanted invited to your Bachelor party to your best man

1 Month - 0/18 completed
 Finalise wedding day hair ( also MOB, MOH and bridesmaids)
 Finalise wedding day make up ( also MOB, MOH and bridesmaids)
 Organise DOC to have midnight snack delivered to our room
 Prepare out of town welcome bags – DIY Project
 Make place cards for reception – DIY Project
 Write up DOC information pack, run sheet & instructions
 Meet with DOC to go over Wedding day timeline
 Call guest's who have not RSVP'd
 Attend Bachelorette party
 Obtain marriage license
 Prepare bathroom baskets
 Have final dress fitting
 Arrange boarding for scratchie
 Honeymoon - organise DOC & travel agent to make call to check for honeymoon" reservations
 Make sure your engagement ring and wedding band are on your home insurance policy
 Call WDW Florist & have welcome pack sent to Hotel rooms
 Groom – attend Bachelor Party
 Organise packing for Wedding & Honeymoon - See Travel Checklist

2 Weeks - 0/15 completed
 Have final hair color appointment for wedding
 Meet with and give final payment to all vendors (go over all details and day of timeline with them for the wedding day)
 Double confirm honeymoon reservations and travel arrangements
 Arrange for transportation to the airport
 Prepare day of emergency kit
 Prepare any speeches or toasts for rehearsal dinner
 Designate someone to overnight your bouquet for floral preservation
 Give bridal party wedding day packs
 Wrap bridal party gifts
 Write thank you card to all bridesmaids and maid of honor
 Designate DOC to pack up all items from reception after the wedding to take home
 Pick up wedding gown from bridal salon
 Make sure you have all bags and items for honeymoon ready (passport, airline tickets, travelers checks, etc.)
 Groom – email groomsmen and best man with wedding day timeline and all info needed for wedding day
 Groom – arrange breakfast for groomsmen and best man for wedding day

Week Before - 0/6 completed
 Give reception location final count/seating chart of people attending
 Make sure programs, menus, place cards, etc. are all completed
 Have rings cleaned for wedding day
 Have a massage to relax
 Groom – get your hair cut and a manicure
 Groom – go with groomsmen & best man to pick up suits.

A Few Days Before - 0/14 completed
 Prepare and drop off box to the reception with accessories such as guest book, table cameras, toasting glasses, cake topper, menus, favors, etc
 Prepare and drop off OOT boxes to Hotels
 Place tips for each vendor in envelopes
 Make sure wedding gown and veil are pressed and have no wrinkles
 Arrange DOC to coordinate breakfast for wedding day when we are getting ready
 Go for waxing appointment
 If you did not go for weekly tanning go for airbrush tanning
 Bring all items to ceremony location (unity candle, programs, cry packs, etc.)
 Attend ceremony rehearsal
 Attend rehearsal dinner
 Bring camera to rehearsal dinner
 Check on supplies for Sunday Brunch & ask DOC to get anything that is missing
 Groom – speak with offending family member re loading of photo’s onto public forums
 Groom – give tip envelopes to best man to be handed out

Day Before - 0/4 completed
 Go get manicure and pedicure with bridesmaids
 Lay out all wedding items (jewellery, shoes, stockings, dress, veil, tiara/headpiece/hairpins, handbag with powder and lipstick, etc.)
 Groom – give rings to best man
 Attend Welcome Party

Day Of - 0/2 completed
 Put petals in petal cones for ceremony
 RELAX, HAVE A GRREAT DAY

Day After - 0/5 completed
 Attend weekend brunch
 Bouquet is sent for floral preservation
 Put top of wedding cake in freezer
 Special thanks to Bridal party & parents
 Take table cameras to be printed
 Groom – make sure all tuxes get back to tuxedo shop

2 Weeks After - 0/4 completed
 Have gown preserved
 Begin name change process
 Have favourite wedding photo framed
 Send honeymoon pictures & song selections to videographer
 Send vendor reviews & thank you's

Our Budgeting Plan

2009-05-15T22:12:00.003+10:00

Last week I did promise to share how we were making our budget stretch to accommodate both our Disney Cruise wedding & wedding reception in the Hunter Valley.

Anyone who has been involved in our planning knows that’s it has been anything but simple, straightforward and without incident. However during all the planning & changes, we have always kept to our two top priority.

Firstly, ensuring that our family and friends feel special & well looked after. As both our wedding celebrations involve travel & substantial costs to our guests, it is very important to us that they feel special, comfortable, well looked after and have a great time.

Secondly we really wanted a relaxed, imaginative, memorable day, which felt like us and reflected our personalities.

Planning & Organising Planning has been a big part of keeping control of our costs. The first thing we did was create a specific, detailed budget. This has made it easy when we have needed to reorganise or make changes (big and small) to the plan.

I am, by nature an organised person, but being organised has been invaluable. For example, one of the first things we decided on was our colour theme (pink, green, silver, chocolate) which has worked well as it meant we could take advantage of seasonal (Christmas, mother’s day etc) sales, expo specials and really given us the upper hand when dealing with vendors.

We have also had a long engagement, initially we planned on 12 months but now it has stretched out to almost 24 months. Not only has this given us more time to save, but more importantly it has given us time to research what we wanted, compare prices, and wait for specials before “needing” to book anything. The “need to book” mentality is only starting to appear now we have only 6months to go.

Less is More Both our Disney wedding & home receptions could have had twice or three times as many guests. And while it would have been lovely to have all our extended family, friends, work colleges at our receptions it is just not feasible.

We were also considering a cocktail reception instead of a sit down meal, in the hopes of being able to squeeze more guests in, but decided against this when it didn’t change the maximum guest limit.

Do It Yourself Ahhh DIY, I love DIY and both celebrations will have many DIY aspects to varying degrees. I will create a full list of all our DIY projects shortly, these are just the main ones.

Invitations & stationery (RSVP, enclosure, order of service, menu’s, place cards, escort cards etc) Here is where I have been saving big $$$$$. While craft stores are great you have to be careful not to end up paying a premium for DIY supplies and purchasing items that are basically the completed products. A lot of the DIY invitations kits (for example) don’t really end up that much cheaper than having invitations made for you. An example of a big saving was on pocket envelopes (the folders that our invitations will go into) one supplier I found was selling the pockets or folders for around $2.10 each. To purchase 120 at $2.10 quickly adds up – it was much more economical to buy the sheets of firm card stock paper at 0.60c each and make the pocket envelops myself. Although it took several hours longer it saved me around $180 and that was just the envelopes!

Favors - Don’t want to say too much but these will be ½ DIY

Decorations – We are sourcing our reception decorations ourselves, instead of having a themeing company do it and so far it has saved a fortune.

Flowers – We are very lucky and have a friend who is a florist and together we are going to purchase the flowers and make the bouquets & boutonnieres ourselves.

Transport – Originally we had booked vintage white limos for our Hunter reception and I adored them, however they are by no means a necessity or a must have, more of a "it would be nice". So when the opportunity came up, that another couple wanted the booking for our day, we decided to give them the cars, save the cost, and use our own.

So far, these are just a few ways we have decided to work the budget in our favour, and spend money in the areas and on the details we want, rather than being at the mercy of vendors and paying a premium for services we can do ourselves and with the help of friends and family.

6 Months today !!!!!!!

2009-05-14T17:56:00.001+10:00

Disney Wedding Planning Kit

2009-05-09T20:12:00.001+10:00

Our updated plans in pictures

2009-04-29T11:27:00.005+10:00

I have updated our inspiration boards for both our Disney World & Hunter Wedding Receptions, with pictures of what we have decided on, or have already purchased / hired.

As it helps to see it all come together visually and gives me the chance to remove or change things that aren’t working in properly.

Our Disney Wedding board – we are going with a blue color pallet (mostly turquoise) and fuchsia as an accent color

Our Hunter Reception – I have slightly changed our colors idea here and instead of a “pink & green” color theme with silver accents we are going with a selection of colors from a soft earthy pallet and will incorporate green, pink, crème, mocha and silver will still be our accent

7 Months today !!!!!!

2009-04-28T23:08:00.005+10:00

The secrets of your dream wedding on a budget

2009-04-25T15:19:00.007+10:00

Lately I have had more and more comments about how “lucky” we are and how “wonderful” it must be to have such an enormous budget for our wedding!!!

The conversation usually goes like this …

Friend: “Wow you are so lucky to have such a big budget for your wedding, it must be fun not having to worry about what things cost and just getting what you want”

Me: “huh?...us…. ??? …MONEY!!! ahhhh no, not really”

Friend: “but look at your plans, you are doing so many things, it must be costing a fortune”

Me: “ True enough we will have been engaged almost 2 years when we get married and we have been saving this whole time, but we still have a very reasonable & tight budget. We just make sure we use every cent and try to stick with what we wanted. But we aren’t prepared to spend the equivalent of a home loan deposit on the wedding”

Friend: “I don’t get it, did you forget about ordering food or something?”

Me: “Nope definitely getting everyone food, I promise! We are finding savings everywhere, and all without really compromising the feel we want for the day. It all depends on what you want, just because something looks expensive, doesn’t mean It is”

Friend: "So how are we getting a Disney Wedding and a weekend reception back home?"

Me: "It comes down to three things ……. Planning, Budgeting and Organising"

But seriously, we are very lucky to be having a destination Disney Wedding and a big home reception with all our friends & family who can’t make the trip overseas. For us it really has been, thorough careful Planning, Budgeting and Organising that will hopefully pull it all off and not leave us in debt.

Planning & Budgeting is a big part of getting the balance right between what you want & how much it will cost, so you don’t end up with any nasty surprises or disappointments along the way.

The first thing we did was talk about what we wanted our wedding to be & what was important to us and always keep that in mind. We spend time researching and looking at everything to work out what we liked, and what gave us what we wanted plus what costs were involved.

Set your budget together (after you have spoken with your family if you are asking or expecting them to contribute) and stick to it !!

Always, always ask questions, don’t be afraid to ask for a better deal and be honest about your budget when discussing options with your suppliers/vendors

Being Organised is what will make sure your planning & budget stay on track and make sure you make smart choices with your money.

To be continued...... how we pulled off our dream Disney wedding on a budget

*Tip of the Day*
Taking advantage of sale items only work out cost effective if they were part of your original plan / budget or you can work them in, without additional costs occurring. Make sure you think before making any spontaneous purchases as 50% of 25 large square is a great saving but not if flowers weren’t going to be your centerpieces. That being said, don’t always discount something that wasn’t part of your plan, just think about it first.

Our Disney Wedding Confirmed !!!!

2009-04-24T20:18:00.005+10:00

Today is a very very exciting day, one that has been a long time in the making !
17 months after our wedding planning began we have FINALLY confirmed our Disney Wedding plans and new wedding planning kit has arrived.

Earlier in the year, after almost 14 months of deliberating we finally decided 100% against a Disney Wishes Wedding (bye bye Disney Couture Collection) and opted to keep our big home reception and therefore have a small Escape Wedding in WDW.

Since then we have been trying to decide on which ceremony location to have, as the Wedding Pavilion, although gorgeous, just did not seem right anymore.

So flipping through Carrie’s Disney Weddings book, looking for inspiration, I stopped on chapter 6 – The Disney Cruise Collection.

The more I read, the more it sounded exactly like what we wanted. So I asked DF to read it, and before he was even ½ was through he said “YES, this is it!”

So after a few emails with our wedding coordinator and a lot of work from our wonderful travel coordinator Julie at Magic Travel – we are booked & I am officially a

Disney Cruise Line Bride

Dress Your Wedding with David's Bridal

2009-04-11T22:54:00.005+10:00

While I was searching for wedding dresses on the David’s Bridal website, I came across a great online tool called “Dress Your Wedding”!

It’s a FREE online tool that allows you to select your colours, dresses, tuxes, and many many other accessories to create a vision of your wedding day.

Apart from being good fun, if you spend the time setting up your virtual bridal party to mirror your real life bridal party, it’s a great way to experiment with endless combinations of styles and colours all from the comfort of home !

The Jane McGrath Rose

2009-04-08T19:54:00.002+10:00

The McGrath Foundation holds a special place in my heart and today at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, The Jane McGrath Rose was launched.

For me the gorgeous pale pink English style bush rose represents both a soft graceful elegance and an unwavering resilience, a fitting tribute for a lady who continues to inspire so many.

Ballarat rose breeders Ron and Barbara Inverarity and Bolwarra’s Treloar Roses approach Mrs McGrath about the flower just months before her death from Breast Cancer last year.

With 80 cents from the sale of each rose being donated to the McGrath Foundation, it is sure to help raise much needed funds and assist the McGrath Breast Care Nurses programme.

To find out more or pre order the Jane McGrath Rose visit http://www.treloarroses.com.au/

Mickey Earrings by Avon

2009-04-04T23:35:00.006+11:00

One of the girls on disbords pointed me to these gorgeous Mickey Mouse earrings by Avon.

I love them; they would be perfect for our Walt Disney World guest welcome bags!

I wish Avon in Australia had them as I can't have them shipped here direct from Avon USA, hopefully I will be able to find them on ebay !

Wedding Style Guide Goes Digital !

2009-03-31T13:37:00.003+11:00

One of my absolutely favorite wedding magazines, Wedding Style Guide has just moved into the digital age !!

I love WSG I personally think it is one of the most creative and distinctive wedding magazine available. A lot of the popular bridal mags just replicate last months issue with a few new articles and an idea or two. Not WSG each issue is a fresh new set of ideas, style tips, stationery, wedding lines, pictures and resources. It also has an awesome website & blog with loads more information & pictures and heaps of free downloads.

Now they have added all of their back issues to the site and you can download the lot for $4.95 ! Which is incredible and the best part …..I will never have to tear out a page or cut up my WSG ever again!!!!

If you haven’t checkout their site & blog before, it’s well worth a visit, you won’t be disappointed! www.styleguide.com.au

Disney Save the Date Invitations

2009-03-23T22:31:00.008+11:00

As the big decisions for our Disney wedding celebration are just about finalised, I though I would spend some time over the weekend, making a start on our Disney Save the Date packages.

As we are only inviting a very small number of our closest family & friends to WDW, I wanted these Save the Dates to be special, one of a kind and very ‘us’.

The idea is that the magic begins when the guests receive their save the date in the mail and continues right up to when we leave for WDW, finishing up, after we get home.

I have a several follow up packages for guests that I am going to send out leading up to the trip and one as a final 'thank you' when we get home. Each package will have a handmade travel item included so that by the time we leave; everyone will have accumulated a travel set for the trip.

I was contemplating either making scrolls, passports or boarding pass invitations and decided on boarding passes & envelopes. I experimented with several different styles, fonts and colors before I found a design that I liked and that worked well together.

Unfortunately the pictures did not turn out to be very clear, but the cover design is quite simple with Cinderella and a trail of starts around the ‘D’ of ‘Date’, our initials in the bottom corner and swarovski crystals on several letters.

On the inside cover is a pink & silver castle with the words “add a touch of sparkle" & more swarovski crystals over the letters.

The Boarding Pass

I still need to make the luggage tags that we are sending out in the save the date packs, and will post a photo when they are finished.

Then in a few months we will send out a follow up package (with booking info etc,) and I think the travel item we send out with this will be a travel wallet.

The last pack before we leave, will be a welcome folder with all the ceremony, parks, activities and contact number information. The hand made part of this pack will be a scrapbook / travel journal, as a keepsake to record the trip.

The final pack will be sent out when we return home, with a thank you note and hopefully some great photos & mementoes that we collect on the trip.

Wedding Flowers, Colors & Meanings

2009-03-21T00:16:00.013+11:00

I adore flowers! Some of my earliest childhood memories are of the flowers in my grandparent’s garden. As much as I hate to admit it I am truly a romantic girly girl who falls for the beautiful colours & perfume smell ever time.

One of the best things about having two ceremonies will be choosing a second bridal bouquet. I can’t wait to see my Disney bouquet; I know it will be amazing.

Apart from seasonality, availability, color and cost, many brides, myself included, are fascinated to learn the meanings of their flower choice. For centuries flowers have played an important role in our history & mythology, infused with symbolism and meaning that continues today.

Over the years I have come to learn some of my favorite & the more popular flower & color meanings, but I was surprised to learn that their significance can change once two flowers were entwined together.

Some of my favorite flowers and greenery and their meanings are:

Apple Blossom - Better things to come
Bells - Are closely linked to the realm of fairies & also referred to as "fairy thimbles”, they represent humility, constancy and gratitude.
Camelia - Gratitude
Carnation - Fascination and love
Chrysanthemum - Red - I love you
Chrysanthemum - White - Truth
Daffodil - Regard
Daisy - Innocence
Fern - Fascination and sincerity
Flowering Almond - Hope
Forget-me-not - True love and remembrance
Honeysuckle - Generosity
Hyacinth - Loveliness
Hydrangea - Boastfulness
Iris - Warmth of affection
Ivy - Eternal fidelity
Jasmine - Amiability
Lemon Blossom - Fidelity in love
Lily - Majesty
Lily-of-the-valley - Return of happiness
Lisianthus - appreciation and an outgoing nature
Magnolia - Perseverance
Mimosa - Sensitivity
Rose (red) - Love
Rose (yellow) - Friendship
Rose (coral) - Desire
Rose (peach) - Modesty
Rose (dark pink) - Thankfulness
Rose (pale pink) - Grace
Rose (orange) - Fascination
Rose (white) - Innocence
Sweet Pea - Delicate pleasures
Tulip - Love
Veronica - Fidelity
Violet - Faithfulness

For the superstitious, there are flowers said to be best avoid, however flowers come with as many & varied meaning as they have petals, and I personally place no value in that at all.

It’s so much fun looking through pages of different bouquet flowers, styles and colors, but it hasn’t help me narrow down what flowers I would like in either bouquet or what flowers we want for the bridal party, ceremony or reception. Our floral plan just moved to the top of my ‘must do’ list for this week!

Secret Brides Business

2009-03-07T20:16:00.008+11:00

I have been waiting very patiently for today and the Secret Brides Business Event. I booked tickets to it months ago and have been counting down the days.

With no real idea what to expect, Mel and I made our way to the Shangri-La Hotel for our 2pm session. When we arrived we were given a booklet on the afternoon’s events and our makeup & nail appointment times.

We made our way down to the entrance of the grand ballroom to find a handpicked selection of Sydney wedding experts. Each area of your wedding planning was covered with a single expert supplier, for you to meet with & see their work. All the while collecting little gifts from the suppliers and champagne freely flowing all around.

After the vendor showing we all went into the grand ballroom to enjoy a champagne high tea while we watched a bridal runway show.

The show had gowns from Alex Perry, Joanne Panzarino, Louise Alvarez, Mark Holt and several other bridal courtiers. The room was gorgeously themed by Michael Cartwright in several different styles, which was great to see in real life.

The entertainment was average, but as we had a great group of people at our table we didn’t really mind.

After our high tea we went up to the 36th floor and WOW! talk about spectacular views! more champagne, chocolates, topless waiters and our makeup & nail appointments.

One of the big stuff ups was that both Mel & my make up appointments were scheduled for after 5pm. But luckily Sania from So Sensational squeezed Mel in (as we wanted Mel’s make up done for her big night out) and she looked Fantastic!

I will contact Secret Brides Business on Monday and see what can be done about my trial.

As things started to wind down we collected our gift bags full of treats, gifts, magazines, make up samples and discounts.

While a few things could be improved upon for next year’s event, all in all we had a fantastic time and left feeling quite pampered

The Supporting Cast .....

2009-03-03T18:40:00.001+11:00

Wedding planning is as exciting as it is overwhelming and choosing which of your family & friends will play a special role in your day can be one of the easiest or one of the hardest & most daunting decisions you’ll make.

While there are no hard & fast rules around whom & how many should be in your bridal party, it should be made up of your closest family & friends. It is a special honor and an important responsibility to be part of a bridal party, and each member has a role to play that extends beyond fun & bachelor/ bachelorette party planning.

This is why it’s important to choose people you know & trust as they will be your support network when times are stressful and you need to know you can count on them. And for me especially, this has been a more difficult decision that I expected, partly because of me and partly because of circumstances.

Many years ago my best friend and I started to plan every intricate detail of my wedding, complete with a folder full of clipping & ideas, run sheets & photos. We added to it over the years & changed details but the two constants had always been the groom & my best friend. Several years ago my best friend, David, passed away and while many things since have been difficult, I knew this would be one of the hardest. This is why it was so important to us to make sure our wingmen & women who would plan, prepare & stand with us, were our nearest & dearest, whom we trusted completely.

When all have had a chance to think & decide if they are able to participate we will update our website with all the details, but until then a few things to consider when choosing your bridal party:

First, don't rush into choosing your attendants; think about what each of their responsibilities will be (practical, time & financial).

Second, try & choose people who you can trust & rely on, and that you know will be honest with you.

Third, factor in the lifestyle and current situation of those you intend to ask, and how it will work with their responsibilities and your needs.

Lastly decide what's most important to you both and go for it, don't get caught up in other people’s expectations or history.

The Perfect Wedding Gift

2009-03-02T19:58:00.008+11:00

Is buying the perfect wedding gift really that difficult?

Buying the perfect gift has turned into somewhat of an art form nowadays. Some put enormous amounts of time into choosing the perfect gift, thinking about the bride & grooms likes & dislikes, hobbies & homes, then the best & most creative way to wrap & deliver it.

Others mistakenly believe that the more it costs the better & more memorable it will be, and let’s not forget those who stumble on the only box of chocolates within the ‘expiry date’ at the service station – 15 minutes before the ceremony starts.

I love buying gifts for people; so far it is my favorite part of wedding planning. As now I get to purchases all kinds of gifts and favors for everyone! But I know a lot of my friends dread buying things for me. As I love gifts that are unique, one off’s, handmade and have character. I especially love things that have a personal significance between the gift giver & receiver.

So how do you find the perfect gift that the couple will love without breaking the bank?

The easiest way to start is by taking a look at the gift registry, although don’t feel you must stick to it exactly if you don’t want to. If you do decide to purchase from the gift registry:

*Decide before you go shopping what your budget is and stick to it!

*There is no rule that says you have to spend your entire budget on one item

*Get in early as often the lists are created months in advance and items can sell out or may only have seasonal availability.

*Add your own personal touch to items from the registry, for example have towels monogrammed with their initials or purchase the vase they wanted and fill it with kitchen gadgets.

If you decide not to purchase from their list can you expand on it? Does a particular brand or designer appear several times on their list? You can always choose an item from the same collection (but not off the list), that way you know it their taste, but it’s still a surprise.

Whatever you decide to purchase (or make) just remember the thought you put into it is far more important than the price tag.

Bridal Party Loot !

2009-02-17T21:55:00.012+11:00

Along with collecting items for our OOT bags I have been collecting gifts & extra little bits & pieces for months & months for our bridal party welcome / gift packs. I have a great stock pile of things that I was planning on filling the bags with when we were having our big WDW wedding. Unfortunately many of the things I have been collecting don’t really work now that we are not going as a group, but some will still be ok.

I haven’t got much for the boys bags yet, especially as they really won’t appreciate all the Disney stuff now, but I can always stock up on snacks & alcohol for the boys.

So far I have ordered the monogrammed pink tote bags for the girls and blue back packs for the boys

Bridesmaid goodies so far ...

Flower Girl goodies so far......

Maid of Honour goodies so far .....

I still have plenty to collect for the bags and for 6 or 7 people I know who have madly scrolled to the bottom of this post, in the hope of seeing your special gifts that Matt & I have organised........ Too Bad So Sad … you all have to wait for the rehearsal dinner to see what they are !!!!

Our Master Destination & Honeymoon Wedding Packing List

2009-02-15T19:10:00.016+11:00

Packing and transporting all our wedding and honeymoon luggage to the Hunter, then onto the US and back home again will definitely be a challenge.

While most of the bulky wedding items will be left for extended family to bring home, we will need to take our personal items (my dress, Matt’s suit and a few other wedding nick knacks) with us, but Disney supply everything else.

While it’s important not to be bogged down with loads of things I don’t need or use, take too little, and you end up buying what you didn't bring.

I have been searching for the best destination wedding packing list and have ended up merging a few together to create a master planning checklist!

First stop – Hunter Valley wedding ceremony & reception

Hunter – Tub 1

Welcome bags and contents

Menus

Guest book & pens

OOS

Thank you notes for vendors & tip envelopes & vendor gifts

Place cards & escort cards

Cake Topper

Hunter – Tub 2

Table décor (candles, flowers, table runner, etc.)

Ceremony accessories

Fix it kit: Sharpies, tape, scissors (X2), glue, extras of all materials used to make favors, double sided tape, cardstock, ribbon, tacks for flowers.

Extra thank you cards

Wedding planning folder with guest list and wedding details

Hunter – Tub 3

Ipod & charger for ceremony (with burnt cd’s of music for backup)

Attendant gifts

Parent gifts

Display photos

Hunter – Tub 4

Bathroom baskets

Signage

Hunter - Bride Suitcase 1

Special outfits for rehearsal dinner, goodbye brunch, and any scheduled activities

Wedding night sleepwear

Wedding makeup

Wedding-day undergarments (undies, bustier, etc,)

Wedding shoes

Comfortable change of shoes for dancing

Pantyhose (plus spare)

Garter

Tiara/headpiece

Purse

Wrap

Groom accessories

Something old, new, borrow, blue

Groom’s gift (wrapped)

Hunter - Bride Suitcase 2

Casual clothes for the week

Make up & toiletries

Hunter - Groom Suitcase 1

All Grooms wedding & other event clothes

Grooms shoes

Grooms accessories

Some glass ceremony items

Ring holder

Hunter - Groom Suitcase 2

Casual clothes for the week

Toiletries

Then onto the US and WDW !! for our Disney Wedding celebration

USA & Honeymoon CARRY ON (Divide up between the two of us)

Travel folder contains:

Passports and driver's licenses

Plane tickets

Itinerary / Maps

Copies of all contracts

Vendor contact info

Lists of guests and travel info, arrival times, hotels where they will be

Copies of wedding insurance policy

Hotel / Cruise reservation confirmations

Photocopies of medical and or trip insurance coverage

Contact details for doctor, house sitters, credit card companies etc

Wedding vows

Extra wedding invite

Copies of WDW wedding coordinator emails

Credit / debit cards, (only taking ones that we plan to use)

Envelope of $1 bills for tipping (we are bringing about $75 worth)

Wedding day jewelry, including wedding rings

Wedding dress

Veil

Groom's suit

Cell phone & charger

Camera & extra batteries/memory stick

Sunglasses

Spare outfit for both

Small toiletries bag (immediately needed supplies – medications, toothbrush etc)

USA & Honeymoon – Checked bag 1

Bride Honeymoon Clothes

USA & Honeymoon – Checked bag 2

Groom’s Honeymoon Clothes

USA & Honeymoon – Checked bag 3

Make up

Toiletries

USA & Honeymoon – Checked bag 4

Bride & Groom VR accessories

LEAVE BEHIND WITH FRIENDS OR FAMILY

Your itinerary and hotel phone numbers

Photocopies of your passport and credit cards

A sealed copy of your wills, life insurance-policy numbers, and pertinent financial info

Checklist update - 9 months

2009-02-14T23:38:00.025+11:00

With all the excitement of Valentine’s Day I almost forgot..... today is our 9 month planning check in and I think I have added more to the list than crossed off !

I have slightly amended and changed around the timeframes on the list as we are leaving the week before for the wedding and almost everything needs to be finished off by the 10th November.!

I still need to add a few things for the US trip, but we have a wonderful coordinator at WDW Brianna, so I am not too worried about anything slipping through the cracks.!

I have also added a traveling / packing checklist, with the plan of how we’ll pack everything for the wedding in the Hunter Valley, our Disney World Vow Renewal, disneymoon & cruise. !

So with exactly 273 days here is where we are at !!

12 Months - 23/35 completed!

 Set Wedding Date
 Set preliminary budget
 Visit ceremony sites
 Research and visit reception locations
 Meet with different officiates
 Decide whether you want to have a band or DJ
 Think about a color scheme or wedding theme
 Meet with and book a Day of Coordinator (DOC)
 Have your engagement ring appraised and Insured
 Begin to think about bridal party
 Groom – begin to think about bridal party
 Start shopping for Wedding Dress ideas
 Sent out engagement announcements
 Engagement Party
 Create Wedding website
 Attend Bridal Shows/Showcases
 Make a list of vendors to contact
 Prepare preliminary guest list
 Set final budget
 Select a ceremony location
 Select a reception location
 Select an officiate
 Select a photographer
 Select a videographer
 Organise accommodation for guests
 Organise accommodation for us
 Finalise color scheme or wedding theme
 Think about centerpieces & bouquets
 Meet with different bands or DJ’s and select one
 Select and ask bridal party members
 Groom – select and ask groomsmen and best man
 Make up & send Save the Date’s (along with guest information)
 Think about where we want gift register
 Begin your honeymoon research
 Start wedding fitness program

9 Months - 2/22 completed

 Select a florist (bring pictures and floral ideas to appointment)
 Think about number & type of cars
 Give maid of honor the guest list for your bridal shower
 Send bridesmaid newsletter – DIY Project
 Create gift registry
 Add gift registry details to wedding website
 Book your honeymoon started
 Finalise guest list
 Disney ceremony Save the Dates
 Select and order/make invitations – DIY Project
 Purchase stamps for invitations (have them weighed)
 Purchase envelope seals – DIY Project
 Order mother of the bride/groom dresses
 Give all vendor information to DOC (address, contracts, phone numbers, etc.)
 Purchase tiara/headpiece/hairpins
 Order veil
 Engagement shoot (booked for April)
 Purchase wedding insurance
 Purchase table cameras
 Order your wedding gown
 Order bridesmaids gowns
 Order flower girl dresses
 Schedule Laser Hair Removal appointment

6 Months - 1/17 completed

 Select & book cars
 Order Cookies
 Schedule hair trials
 Schedule makeup trials
 Arrange guest transportation
 Buy your shower outfit
 Check passports
 Update your registry and check for any discontinued items
 Shop for and order wedding rings
 Purchase wedding day jewelry
 Purchase cake serving set
 Purchase toasting flutes
 Purchase ring pillow
 Begin taking dancing lessons
 Start facials
 Select and order wedding cake
 Plan ceremony (writing vows, music selections, readings, etc.)

4 Months - 0/20 completed

 Order / make bridal shower thank you cards – DIY Project
 Purchase / make ceremony decorations (pew bows, personalized aisle runner, etc.) – DIY Project
 Shop for, order or make favors
 Order / make tags & custom labels for favors – DIY Project
 Start wedding gown fittings
 Decide what kind of bustle you want (one point, two point, French, etc.)
 Purchase all undergarments for your gown including a slip, stocking, garters, etc.
 Purchase throw away garter
 Purchase wedding day shoes
 Purchase comfortable shoes for reception (slippers, sneakers, flip flops, etc.)
 Purchase bridal party shoes and have them dyed if needed
 Purchase a guest book or frame for sign in picture
 Purchase cake topper
 Schedule ceremony rehearsal
 Book rehearsal dinner location
 Order / make rehearsal dinner invitations – DIY Project
 Decide where you want to take photos after the ceremony
 Plan back up locations for ceremony and photo sessions in case of rain
 Purchase flower girl basket
 Order monogrammed napkins and matches

3 Months - 0/24 completed

 Attend bridal shower
 Send out bridal shower thank you cards
 Buy any ribbon or packaging you will need to wrap wedding favors
 Purchase bridal party gifts
 Purchase bridal party jewellery
 Purchase flower girl jewellery
 Purchase flower girl tiara
 Purchase flower girl gifts
 Purchase ring bearer gifts
 Purchase parent gifts
 Meet with officiate and go over ceremony in detail
 Purchase or make ceremony programs
 Send out invitations (don’t forget to have them hand cancelled)
 Groom - order tuxes and have all groomsmen measured
 Groom – buy groomsmen and best man gifts
 Meet with reception location and finalise menu
 Order grooms cake
 Send out rehearsal dinner invitations
 Purchase items for slipper basket (slippers, baskets, ribbon, bags, tags)
 Schedule hair color appointment for week before wedding
 Meet with florist and finalize floral details - how many centerpieces, bouquets, boutonnieres, place card table arrangement. Also design and types of flowers and view/approve sample centerpiece
 Order table linens and check on tiffany chairs & colours
 Organise Popcorn Bar (glass jars, popcorn, bags, scoops & signage)
 Purchase items for place cards (votives, votive holders, vellum and vellum tape for votive place cards)

2 Months - 0/39 completed

 Arrange for Photo session in WDW
 Arrange for photo session in NYC
 Arrange & purchase Honeymoon add ons / check Honeymoon register
 Check on WDW reception location & order cake
 Check on guest list for WDW and send out information packs to those attending
 Shop for honeymoon clothes
 Shop for items that will go in out of town gift bags
 Wrap and finish all favors
 Make petal cones & ceremony packs
 Select first dance song, bridal party entrance songs, mother/father dance songs, cake cutting songs, etc. and give to Band or DJ
 Create must play and do not play list and give to Band or DJ
 Organise vendor information packs (contact numbers, instructions, photo’s)
 Write up vendor questionnaire (meals, allergy requests)
 Finalise seating arrangements
 Prepare must take photo list (& samples) give to photographer
 Make final vendor appointments & distribute information packs
 Host bridesmaid’s lunch
 Make or order menus for table – DIY Project
 Make or order table number – DIY Project
 Purchase stands (easels) for table numbers
 Break in wedding day shoes
 Make sure you have something, old, new, borrowed and blue
 Give MOH list of people for Bachelorette party
 Get together pictures you want displayed at reception (baby pictures, engagement pictures, family wedding photos, etc.)
 Buy frames for pictures
 Purchase or make card box / money bag for gifts
 Purchase baskets for programs
 Purchase petal cone basket
 Purchase all items for bathroom baskets
 Shop for honeymoon necessities such as sunscreen, bug spray, beach towels, etc.
 Have second dress fitting
 Have teeth whitened
 Buy a wedding gift for h2b
 Organise welcome party at Crown
 Organise Sunday brunch & how/when supplies will be delivered & stored
 Think about contingency plan for brunch in case of bad weather
 Groom – have a discussion with your best man about his responsibilities
 Groom – buy a wedding gift for your b2b
 Groom – start weekly tanning sessions
 Groom – give list of guys you wanted invited to your Bachelor party to your best man

1 Month - 0/18 completed

 Finalise wedding day hair ( also MOB, MOH and bridesmaids)
 Finalise wedding day make up ( also MOB, MOH and bridesmaids)
 Organise DOC to have midnight snack delivered to our room
 Prepare out of town welcome bags – DIY Project
 Make place cards for reception – DIY Project
 Write up DOC information pack, run sheet & instructions
 Meet with DOC to go over Wedding day timeline
 Call guest's who have not RSVP'd
 Attend Bachelorette party
 Obtain marriage license
 Prepare bathroom baskets
 Have final dress fitting
 Arrange boarding for scratchie
 Honeymoon - organise DOC & travel agent to make call to check for honeymoon" reservations
 Make sure your engagement ring and wedding band are on your home insurance policy
 Call WDW Florist & have welcome pack sent to Hotel rooms
 Groom – attend Bachelor Party
 Organise packing for Wedding & Honeymoon - See Travel Checklist

2 Weeks - 0/15 completed

 Have final hair color appointment for wedding
 Meet with and give final payment to all vendors (go over all details and day of timeline with them for the wedding day)
 Double confirm honeymoon reservations and travel arrangements
 Arrange for transportation to the airport
 Prepare day of emergency kit
 Prepare any speeches or toasts for rehearsal dinner
 Designate someone to overnight your bouquet for floral preservation
 Give bridal party wedding day packs
 Wrap bridal party gifts
 Write thank you card to all bridesmaids and maid of honor
 Designate DOC to pack up all items from reception after the wedding to take home
 Pick up wedding gown from bridal salon
 Make sure you have all bags and items for honeymoon ready (passport, airline tickets, travelers checks, etc.)
 Groom – email groomsmen and best man with wedding day timeline and all info needed for wedding day
 Groom – arrange breakfast for groomsmen and best man for wedding day

Week Before - 0/6 completed

 Give reception location final count/seating chart of people attending
 Make sure programs, menus, place cards, etc. are all completed
 Have rings cleaned for wedding day
 Have a massage to relax
 Groom – get your hair cut and a manicure
 Groom – go with groomsmen & best man to pick up suits.

A Few Days Before - 0/14 completed

 Prepare and drop off box to the reception with accessories such as guest book, table cameras, toasting glasses, cake topper, menus, favors, etc
 Prepare and drop off OOT boxes to Hotels
 Place tips for each vendor in envelopes
 Make sure wedding gown and veil are pressed and have no wrinkles
 Arrange DOC to coordinate breakfast for wedding day when we are getting ready
 Go for waxing appointment
 If you did not go for weekly tanning go for airbrush tanning
 Bring all items to ceremony location (unity candle, programs, cry packs, etc.)
 Attend ceremony rehearsal
 Attend rehearsal dinner
 Bring camera to rehearsal dinner
 Check on supplies for Sunday Brunch & ask DOC to get anything that is missing
 Groom – speak with offending family member re loading of photo’s onto public forums
 Groom – give tip envelopes to best man to be handed out

Day Before - 0/4 completed

 Go get manicure and pedicure with bridesmaids
 Lay out all wedding items (jewellery, shoes, stockings, dress, veil, tiara/headpiece/hairpins, handbag with powder and lipstick, etc.)
 Groom – give rings to best man
 Attend Welcome Party

Day Of - 0/2 completed

 Put petals in petal cones for ceremony
 RELAX, HAVE A GRREAT DAY

Day After - 0/5 completed

 Attend weekend brunch
 Bouquet is sent for floral preservation
 Put top of wedding cake in freezer
 Special thanks to Bridal party & parents
 Take table cameras to be printed
 Groom – make sure all tuxes get back to tuxedo shop

2 Weeks After - 0/4 completed

 Have gown preserved
 Begin name change process
 Have favourite wedding photo framed
 Send honeymoon pictures & song selections to videographer
 Send vendor reviews & thank you's

Not a bad effort so far, we still have a long way to go, and time is defiantly going to play a big factor in my DIY plan. As several of the projects so far have taken a lot more time to complete an I imagined.

Disney's Couture Collection by David Tutera

2009-02-05T19:43:00.015+11:00

We are almost at the point where we will be allowed to sign on the dotted line with WDW. As we have to wait until the eight month mark before we can 100% lock it in and sign our letter of agreement.

We have been looking at our couples ceremonies & reading up on all the different options for months and months. And I have come to love the David Tutera Collection.

This basically leaves minimal work for us after we select the theme collection we want, as everything within each collection has been pre-selected, including the locations, centerpieces, linens and flowers the type of event you selected.

Then we get to turn up like guests at our own wedding, knowing exactly what everything will look like and that everything has been taken care of.

You can choose between the following four themes;

Classic Elegance -- a traditional, romantic setting that marries gold and pink and features an abundance of crystal chandeliers and numerous gilded mirrors to create the ultimate formal wedding.

Cocktail Soiree -- chocolate browns and ice blues come together with chic lounge-style furniture and an illuminated bar to create a hip and contemporary party environment.

Enchanted Garden -- soft, springtime palettes of yellow and green create a fanciful floral garden setting amidst topiaries and butterflies in flight.

Simply Chic -- clean contemporary lines, suspended white lanterns and the use of Lucite and glass in a pure white party space with green accents create a fresh take on a modern look.

I love all the themes, if we end up with enough guests for a wishes wedding, it will be difficult to choose just one !

Disney Honeymoon Registry Card

2009-02-04T18:03:00.007+11:00

When I got home from work today; I was excited to find a FedEx parcel waiting for me. I had absolutely no idea what it could be and while ripping into the packet I was desperately trying to think what I could have bought and forgotten about.

When I eventually got the packet open it was a letter from Disney! and our Honeymoon Registry Gift Card !

Now we can activate our online gift registry and our guests can contribute to items on it as a wedding gift to us if they like. We will be probably end up purchasing most the things on the registry as it’s a great way for us to take advantage of the dollar while it is doing better.

Honeymoon booking update

2009-02-03T18:30:00.014+11:00

I haven’t been posting much about our Disney Wedding Celebration or Disneymoon lately and thought it was time for an update.

We have confirmed our WDW & Florida trip details with the help of Julie @ Magic Travel in Florida. She is absolutely fantastic and we can’t thank her enough for all her help as we simply wound not have gotten this far with out her assistance.

We have decided to stay at two different hotels and have a week at each. This way we can each choose our favorite resort and moving between hotels could not be easier as Disney offer a free service to move your luggage & check you to your next resort while you go off to the theme park !

So far we have booked 6 Nights at the Contemporary Resort in a MK Tower Club Room and then we are moving to the Wilderness Lodge Resort for 7 nights in a Honeymoon Suite !

In the end we decided against the dining plans and chose concierge level rooms at both resorts. I think cost wise it will work out to be about the same or perhaps a little more, but this way we have so much more flexibility especially as we wanted to reserve several special dining experiences anyway.

While this might be enough Disney for most, I am convinced we will still love more so I have added a 3 night Disney Bahamian Cruise!

Contemporary Resort

Wilderness Lodge Resort

OOT Bags vs Boxes - Part 2

2009-02-01T21:21:00.007+11:00

Ok the results are in and the forum girls are tied 50% / 50% between the Gables and the wedding totes!

It is going to come down to cost and ease of transport and delivery. The tote bags would definitely be easier to transport up to the Hunter and also deliver to rooms. While I could transport the boxes flat it means I would have to assemble them when we get there and I was hoping to have it all completed before we left.

Either way I now am just waiting for a quote on the bags and then can compare to the price of the box + decorating. I would love to be able to factor my time into the box cost as well but that’s just cheeky :)

Now for the starting plan on what to include in the bags: Welcome info pack & thank you note
2 bottles of water – DIY personal label
Local Jam or Honey
Tissues
Sun block
Tea/Coffee
Snacks – chips / cookies
Chocolate

OOT Boxes vs Bags

2009-01-29T18:22:00.016+11:00

We have been planning on using decorated white gabel boxes for our OOT boxes

But I have just found coloured and wedding canvas toes that are really sweet and now I don’t know which to pick???

Or perhaps I should just stick to plan paper bags?

Decisions decisions – I think I need to run a quick poll on the forum.......

The hunt is over....and the winner is.............

2009-01-29T17:16:00.013+11:00

Our search for the perfect photographer is FINALLY over! We took a trip to Avoca today to meet with Julie Delisser from Delisser photography. After a few wrong turns and the very very scenic route we arrived. As soon as we walked through the door she made us feel relaxed and comfortable. We talked for a while and explained what we wanted & looked through her amazing photos. Needless to say we absolutely loved her, she is fabulous and her photos are awesome. We knew she was exactly what we had been looking for and signed her on the spot! I am actually really excited about our engagement shoot now, it was the one thing I had been dreading and now I can’t wait to see how it turns out.

DIY Project - Save The Dates Part 2

2009-01-06T20:21:00.019+11:00

We decided that we wanted our bridal party to receive their “Save the Weekend” cards in style.

After all first impressions count! So we packaged them up in silver & pink boxes together with a mini bottle of “Pink Blush” champagne from Peterson’s.

2009-01-02T16:28:00.009+11:00

For the last 14 months or so our wedding planning has been going in a circle that plays out like this .......

This is completely our own fault!

We felt it was important that our families were given the opportunity to be involved and we have been trying to accommodate as many people as possible, but enough is finally enough! We found ourselves in a place so far removed from not only where we started but where we wanted to be A line has to be drawn between input and complete domination!!

So we have taken control back and have changed our thinking and plan. Instead of having a big destination Disney wedding and then a family reception back home.

We have changed things around and will now have a mini destination wedding reception at home in the hunter valley, followed by an intimate Disney Escape Wedding at WDW.

13th to 15th November 2009 Weekend Wedding Hunter Valley

18 November to 27 NOvember 2009 Honeymoon

28 November to 5 December 2009 Disney Fairy Tail Wedding Cruise

5 December to 22 December 2009 Disneymoon

DIY Project - Save The Dates

2009-01-01T11:06:00.008+11:00

With the help of my MOH I finished my Hunter Valley Save the Weekend cards yesterday ! I finally worked the design so I was able to use our colors, logo, the champagne brads and the wine & grape vellum paper I found in Melbourne.

With a small magnet on the back and a piece of sage ribbon tided around them, they are ready to be mailed out !

Our Hunter Valley Wedding Reception Venue

2008-12-10T19:18:00.019+11:00

After a few false starts I think we have finally found the perfect spot for our Hunter wedding reception and we were able to get a date we liked so we signed the contracts today ! We have officially booked Saturday 14th November at Peterson's Champagne House - it is absolutely beautiful. We visited the restaurant last weekend and took some more photo's

Honeymoon Planning

2008-12-07T23:51:00.003+11:00

Before we were even engaged we knew where we wanted to go on our honeymoon, as we both really want to go through Europe and the US (coast to coast). For lots of reasons (mostly $$$) we decided to leave Europe of the itinerary this time & focus on our coast 2 coast trip through the US. This has turned out to be more difficult to plan than I imagined as during Nov/Dec no tours run coast 2 coast due to the weather.

So what to do??? when you look at and weight up our options you come up with........

(a) Attempt C2C on public transport - possible but difficult, we really wanted a tour company as I will have to move all the luggage myself and won't have any help if we go it alone on public transport !

(b) Self Drive - A better option but Matt doesn't want to have the stress of driving on our honeymoon

(c) Put Europe back on the table -While we could easily find a tour through Europe, it would still be a lot more expensive to go to Europe and I am looking forward to the US now anyway.

(d) Leave C2C to next time and pick 6 or 7 cities to visit and fly between - BEST OPTION so far

So now we need to pick the cities & plan the route ......

DIY Project - Our Wedding Logo

2008-12-01T14:01:00.008+11:00

My first wedding DIY project is going to be our Wedding Logo! Something unique that reflects our romantic vineyard theme & our colors, pink, sage & silver Here is what it looks like so far....

Trip Report…. the venue search... part 2

2008-11-30T00:17:00.011+11:00

Tuscany Wine Estate – No

Atmosphere: ***

Style: Very Tuscan

Size: 80 - 100 max

Photo:

Comments: Size is a big factor here as the venue is very small. While the venue is saying 100 people, it is currently set up for 80 and there is not enough space for people to pull out the chairs!

Audury Wilkerson – No

Unfortunately they no longer allow receptions on the property only ceremonies & photo sessions.

Hope Estate – No

Atmosphere: ***

Style: Wine barrel storage room

Size: 80 - 100 max

Photo:

Comments: While I am sure photo’s would be great, it’s really really claustrophobic and the barrels that line the walls are huge – it’s actually quite scary and very dark!

Catersifeld House - No

Atmosphere: **

Style: Country Farm house / estate

Size: 80 max in function room or marquee

Photo:

Comments: Property was nice, but not what we were looking for.

Trip Report…. the venue search... part 1

2008-11-29T21:20:00.020+11:00

We had a blast on our road trip (despite the hail storm) and we got to see our entire “A” list but didn’t have the chance to see the “B” list venues.

Notes & photos of each venue to help narrow down the one!

Tamburlaine - No

Atmosphere: **

Style: Gentleman’s lodge, space was big but very “function room” looking

Size: 200 max

Photo:

Comments: Not a great deal of character except for the lake. Disabled access/facilities were very average and the mixed eclectic artwork that filled the blue walls was very taste specific (i.e not ours!)

Hungerford Hill – Possibility

Atmosphere: **

Style: Clean, very contemporary

Size: 130 max

Photo:

Comments: A little to contemporary and not doesn’t fit with the style I was hoping for, however it can accommodate a larger group. Event manager/planner did not show for our meeting !

The Vintage – Possibility

Atmosphere: **

Style: Mixed & slapdash, building is an odd awkward shape at the edge of the property.

Size: 120 max

Photo:

Comments: Dance floor area is at the side of a building with no cover and can’t be used if it rains?? Event planner was quite short, inflexible and seemed uninterested. On the whole the overall feeling was not a very positive one.

Peterson’s champagne House – Possibility

Atmosphere: ****

Style: Classic, old sandstone building with modern amenities - lots of character

Size: 106 max

Photo:

Comment: We both loved the atmosphere & décor at Peterson’s, lots of character & charm. Very similar to the barrel room, stone building, vineyards and lake. Size could be an issue, however if all else fails they do have an area in the middle of the vineyard where we could have a marquee if REALLY needed.

Road Trip .......searching for a new venue !

2008-11-28T22:53:00.001+11:00

After the drama that unfolded with our original venue, we had no option but to cancel. It did take several interesting phone conversations before they agreed to refund our deposit (no apology mind you, just an admission that “perhaps” we had been “misinformed” not “mislead” ) but thankfully it’s all over and we can put it behind us now.

As no one (especially me) wants to revisit all the crap & heartache we went through with those vendors, & see all the hard work we put in, only to be wasted. I have removed our initial planning posts that involved those venues, but everything will stay the same.

Any who, moving on, we are going on a road trip this weekend to find a new and even better venue. We are a little wiser and a lot more prepared, so hopefully won’t fall for the same sales tricks & plays on words that have plagued us till now.

We only have a limited amount of time and a lot of places to see so we have narrowed down the must see list in order and then we also have a back up list if needed. In order the must see list (remember that unfortunately the gorgeous Barrel Room at Peppers Creek is fully booked (although we were able to secure the chapel) and Peppers Guest House & Sebel are a dead set NO) reads……..

Tuscany Wine Estate
Audury Wilkerson
Hope Estate
Peterson’s champagne House
Tamburlaine
Hungerford Hill
The Vintage
Catersifeld House

Hopefully we won’t need it but our back up list is…
Margan – not convinced on this one so it’s moving to the back up list
The Veranda Restaurant
Hunter resort
Tulloch

Ideally I would love to find something similar to the Peppers Creek Barrel Room

My Ultimate Planning List

2008-11-14T20:58:00.019+11:00

Today the official countdown can begin 356 days to the wedding!!!

With so many things to remember, I have been searching for one super checklist and the perfect organiser to keep everything together. I have looked at so many (and purchased a few) and I still have not found one that has everything I want included, although the Mindy Weiss planner comes very close.

My new DIY project will be my ultimate wedding planner & samples book and I will start to compile a super checklist as well.

So with exactly 365 days to go I need to get through the following ...

12 Months - 0/24 completed

 Set Wedding Date
 Set preliminary budget
 Visit ceremony sites
 Research and visit reception locations
 Meet with different officiates
 Decide whether you want to have a band or DJ
 Think about a color scheme or wedding theme
 Meet with and book a Day of Coordinator (DOC)
 Have your engagement ring appraised and Insured
 Begin to think about bridal party
 Groom – begin to think about bridal party
 Start shopping for Wedding Dress ideas
 Sent out engagement announcements
 Engagement Party
 Create Wedding website
 Attend Bridal Shows/Showcases
 Make a list of vendors to contact
 Prepare preliminary guest list
 Set final budget
 Select a ceremony location
 Select a reception location
 Select an officiate
 Select a photographer
 Select a videographer
 Organise accommodation for guests
 Organise accommodation for us
 Finalise color scheme or wedding theme
 Think about centerpieces & bouquets
 Meet with different bands or DJ’s and select one
 Select and ask bridal party members
 Groom – select and ask groomsmen and best man
 Order & send Save the Date’s (along with guest information)
 Think about where we want gift register
 Begin your honeymoon research
 Start wedding fitness program

9 Months - 0/23 completed
 Select a florist (bring pictures and floral ideas to appointment)
 Think about number & type of cars
 Give maid of honor the guest list for your bridal shower
 Send bridesmaid newsletter
 Create gift registry
 Book your honeymoon
 Finalise guest list
 Select and order invitations
 Purchase stamps for invitations (have them weighed)
 Purchase envelope seals – DIY Project
 Order mother of the bride/groom dresses
 Give all vendor information to DOC (address, contracts, phone numbers, etc.)
 Purchase tiara/headpiece/hairpins
 Order veil
 Engagement shoot
 Purchase wedding insurance
 Purchase table cameras
 Order your wedding gown
 Order bridesmaids gowns
 Order flower girl dresses
 Schedule Laser Hair Removal appointment

6 Months - 0/21 completed
 Select & book cars
 Schedule hair trials
 Schedule makeup trials
 Arrange guest transportation
 Buy your shower outfit
 Check passports
 Update your registry and check for any discontinued items
 Shop for and order wedding rings
 Purchase wedding day jewelry
 Purchase cake serving set
 Purchase toasting flutes
 Purchase ring pillow
 Begin taking dancing lessons
 Start facials
 Select and order wedding cake
 Plan ceremony (writing vows, music selections, readings, etc.)

4 Months - 0/25 completed
 Order bridal shower thank you cards
 Purchase ceremony decorations (pew bows, personalized aisle runner, etc.)
 Shop for and order favors
 Order favor tags or custom labels for favors
 Start wedding gown fittings
 Decide what kind of bustle you want (one point, two point, French, etc.)
 Purchase all undergarments for your gown including a slip, stocking, garters, etc.
 Purchase throw away garter
 Purchase wedding day shoes
 Purchase comfortable shoes for reception (slippers, sneakers, flip flops, etc.)
 Purchase bridal party shoes and have them dyed if needed
 Purchase a guest book or frame for sign in picture
 Purchase cake topper
 Schedule ceremony rehearsal
 Book rehearsal dinner location
 Order rehearsal dinner invitations
 Decide where you want to take photos after the ceremony
 Plan back up locations for ceremony and photo sessions in case of rain
 Purchase flower girl basket
 Order monogrammed napkins and matches

3 Months - 0/26 completed
 Attend your bridal shower
 Send out bridal shower thank you cards
 Buy any ribbon or packaging you will need to wrap wedding favors
 Purchase bridal party gifts
 Purchase bridal party jewellery
 Purchase flower girl jewellery
 Purchase flower girl tiara
 Purchase flower girl gifts
 Purchase ring bearer gifts
 Purchase parent gifts
 Meet with officiant and go over ceremony in detail
 Purchase or make ceremony programs
 Send out invitations (don’t forget to have them hand cancelled)
 Groom - order tuxes and have all groomsmen measured
 Groom – buy groomsmen and best man gifts
 Meet with reception location and finalize menu
 Order grooms cake
 Send out rehearsal dinner invitations
 Purchase items for slipper basket (slippers, baskets, ribbon, tags)
 Schedule hair color appointment for week before wedding
 Meet with florist and finalize floral details - how many centerpieces, bouquets, boutonnieres, place card table arrangement. Also design and types of flowers and view/approve sample centerpiece
 Order table linens and chair covers
 Organise Popcorn Bar (glass jars, popcorn, bags, scoops & signage)
 Purchase items for place cards (votives, votive holders, vellum and vellum tape for votive place cards)

2 Months - 0/33 completed
 Arrange for Photo shoot in Disney World
 Purchase Disney Honeymoon add ons / check Honeymoon register
 Shop for honeymoon clothes
 Shop for items that will go in out of town gift bags
 Wrap and finish all favors
 Make petal cones & ceremony packs
 Select first dance song, bridal party entrance songs, mother/father dance songs, cake cutting songs, etc. and give to Band or DJ
 Create must play and do not play list and give to Band or DJ
 Finalize seating arrangements
 Prepare must take photo list and give to photographer
 Make final vendor appointments
 Host bridesmaid’s lunch
 Make or order menus for table
 Make or order table numbers
 Purchase stands for table numbers
 Break in wedding day shoes
 Make sure you have something, old, new, borrowed and blue
 Give MOH list of people for Bachelorette party
 Groom – give list of guys you wanted invited to your Bachelor party to your best man
 Get together pictures you want displayed at reception hall (baby pictures, engagement pictures, family wedding photos, etc.)
 Buy frames for pictures
 Purchase or make card box or money bag for gifts
 Purchase baskets for programs
 Purchase petal cone basket
 Purchase all items for bathroom baskets
 Have second dress fitting
 Groom – start weekly tanning sessions
 Have teeth whitened
 Buy a wedding gift for h2b
 Groom – have a discussion with your best man about his responsibilities
 Groom – buy a wedding gift for your b2b

1 Month - 0/13 completed
 Finalise wedding day hair ( also MOB, MOH and bridesmaids)
 Finalise wedding day make up ( also MOB, MOH and bridesmaids)
 Shop for honeymoon necessities such as sunscreen, bug spray, beach towels, etc.
 Organise DOC to have midnight snack delivered to our room
 Prepare out of town welcome bags
 Make place cards for reception
 Meet with DOC to go over day of timeline
 Call guest's who have not RSVP'd
 Attend Bachelorette party
 Groom – attend Bachelor Party
 Obtain marriage license
 Prepare bathroom baskets
 Have final dress fitting
 Arrange boarding for scratchie
 Honeymoon - organise DOC & travel agent to make call to check for honeymoon" reservations
 Make sure your engagement ring and wedding band are on your home insurance policy
 Call Disney Florist & have Disney welcome pack sent to room

2 Weeks - 0/13 completed
 Have final hair color appointment for wedding
 Meet with and give final payment to all vendors (go over all details and day of timeline with them for the wedding day)
 Confirm honeymoon reservations and travel arrangements
 Arrange for transportation to the airport
 Prepare day of emergency kit
 Prepare any speeches or toasts for rehearsal dinner
 Designate someone to overnight your bouquet for floral preservation
 Give bridal party wedding day packs
 Groom – email groomsmen and best man with wedding day timeline and all info needed for day of
 Wrap bridal party gifts
 Write thank you card to all bridesmaids and maid of honour
 Groom – arrange breakfast for groomsmen and best man for wedding day
 Designate someone to pack up all items from reception hall after the wedding to take home

Week Before - 0/4 completed
 Give reception location final count/seating chart of people attending
 Pack for honeymoon
 Make sure programs, menus, place cards, etc. are all completed
 Have rings cleaned for wedding day
 Have a massage to relax

 A Few Days Before - 0/7 completed
 Prepare and drop off box to the reception hall with accessories such as guest book, table cameras, toasting glasses, cake topper, menus, favors, etc
 Prepare and drop off OOT boxes to Hotels
 Place tips for each vendor in envelopes
 Pick up wedding gown from bridal salon
 Make sure wedding gown and veil are pressed and have no wrinkles
 Arrange for breakfast for day of when you are getting ready
 Go for waxing appointment
 If you did not go for weekly tanning go for airbrush tanning

Day Before - 0/13 completed
 Go get manicure and pedicure with bridesmaids
 Make sure you have all bags and items for honeymoon ready (passport, airline tickets, travelers checks, etc.)
 Attend ceremony rehearsal
 Bring all items to ceremony location (unity candle, programs, cry packs, etc.)
 Attend rehearsal dinner
 Bring camera to rehearsal dinner
 Lay out all wedding items (jewellery, shoes, stockings, dress, veil, tiara/headpiece/hairpins, handbag with powder and lipstick, etc.)
 Pack wedding night bag with lingerie and wedding dress bag to pack up gown
 Groom – pack a bag for the wedding night
 Groom – give rings to best man
 Groom – give tip envelopes to best man to be handed out
 Groom – get your hair cut and a manicure
 Groom – go with groomsmen & best man to pick up suits.

Wedding Day - 0/2 completed
 Put petals in petal cones for ceremony
 RELAX, HAVE A GREAT DAY

Day After - 0/4 completedBouquet is sent for floral preservation
 Put top of wedding cake in freezer
 Groom – make sure all tuxes get back to tuxedo shop
 Take table cameras to be printed

2 Weeks After - 0/4 completed
 Have gown preserved
 Begin name change process
 Have favourite wedding photo framed
 Send honeymoon pictures & song selections to videographer

That's defiantly a lot of planning to get through in 12 months .....

Wedding Customs and Traditions

2008-11-12T23:32:00.006+11:00

While on a wedding board the other day I made the mistake of asking about a groom’s cake and was inundated with sharp point remakes about it being an “overseas custom” that we “do not observe here!”

I must admit at first I was irritated with the level of ignorance displayed, not to mention that it’s an internet forum ladies ! You can’t tell who I am, what I look like or what nationality I might be !

Anyway, later, I began to felt sorry for these women, who in their short sightedness participate in numerous traditions that they don’t even realise the purpose or significance of, and at the same time miss out on wonderful opportunities & experiences, simply because it doesn’t appear in the latest issue of Bride to Be!

It got me thinking about the customs & traditions we were observing, where they came from & why we were following them. Was it because we felt we had too or because we truly wanted to?

So I decided to research customs & traditions and see why we do the things we do. Added to this we are also so fortunate to have a wonderfully diverse group of family & close friends, perhaps we could honor a traditions that they bring, while forging some of our own at the same time.

Some of my favorite customs & traditions I have come across so far have been:

The White wedding dress: The white wedding dress has been traditional for many centuries, symbolizing hope and joy for the future

Tin Cans: Tying tin cans to the back of the newlywed’s car recalls the ancient tradition of making loud noise to frighten away evil spirits.

Groom boutonniere: Originates in medieval times when a knight wore his lady's colors (through flowers) as a statement of his love.

Exchanging rings: May be the oldest wedding tradition and therfore it’s origins are unclear. The ring’s circular shape represents perfection and never-ending love.

Bride stands on the left: When the groom fought off warriors who also wanted his bride, he would hold onto her with his left hand, while fighting them off with his sword in his right hand.

Diamond Engagement Rings: These lavish gifts were given by medieval Italians in the belief that the diamond was created in the Flames of Love.

First Dance: The tradition of a "first dance" represents the start of the bride and groom's new life together.

Our Wedding Logo

2008-10-09T20:34:00.015+11:00

This is something I have been putting a lot of thought into as I want it to run right through our planning & day from the beginning, and be as much a part of the theme as our colors & venue.

Trying to get it right is proving more difficult that I though as I am attempting to create something from scratch that is equally Romance, Disney & Vineyard (as we still have not settled the WDW vs. Hunter Valley debate) with a nice balance of color, creativity & elegance (as it’s not fair to have something too girly or too Disney)

Our colors are going to be pink, sage green & silver.

So far this is my inspiration board

GO CATS !

2008-09-27T11:50:00.001+10:00

That one picture

2008-09-12T20:54:00.015+10:00

Every now and then I come across a picture, drawing, painting, poem or word of inspiration that captures the project I'm working on or inspires my next. Since we have started planning the wedding, I have been searching for that one picture to capture the idea I have in my head of how I want out wedding to be. I had no idea of it was going to look like, but I knew that when I found it I would know immediately. Well, today I found it ! it is perfect !

This is exactly what I what our wedding to be ! Classic, simple, fun, enchanting and timeless, with that touch of Disney

The great chair cover debate .....

2008-07-21T01:58:00.011+10:00

This is the one thing I knew immediate I could not budge on – chair covers & sashes I can’t stand them, I personally HATE HATE HATE them ! (and the matching organza / silk sash & table runner – BLAH) On occasion I have seen them look ok, but it usually depends on a few things: The space/venue, the quality of the cover, the colour/theme combination you choose and the amount of space you have. Far too often brides cram chairs with covers & sashes into venues that either have enough character on their own or are too small for all the extra clutter and all you end up seeing is a sea of material. Chair covers & sashes .....

The solution would be to either find plain wooden chairs that won’t need covers & sashes, or splurge and have Tiffany chairs (which by the way I adore) they are so fine and delicate, they can definitely add to the elegant atmosphere without taking over and standing out. Our venue has plenty of character on its own so the idea would be to have the chairs almost disappear into the background – not stand out and make a statement! I did think this over for a long time and decided to splurge on tiffany chairs in a white wash (the ones in the pic are silver) with a white cushion! They will be perfect!

Our Engagement Party

2008-04-21T22:53:00.010+10:00

Our Engagement Party story - in photo's Our Engagement party was great, except we were missing a few extra special people, you know who you are :) and Matt couldn't make it through the whole night without taking a rest for his back. So our party in pictures.............

The Party

The Dessert Bar

The Cake

Our Favors

Still No Favor Bags !!!!

2008-04-17T10:17:00.003+10:00

Despite the $100+ USD it cost to have our gift bags express posted 10 days later and they are still not here ! Customs has no idea if they will arrive tomorrow so it's time for plan B ! the plain white kraft bags & hopefully we can come up with some savoy DIY ideas ! to make them a little more exciting..

Flower Markets at 5AM

2008-04-16T09:25:00.010+10:00

My MOH & I were up at 4.30am this morning driving out to the flower markets, hoping to find a few great buys and some gorgeous flowers for Saturday night. We came home with bells, lilies and my favorite’s lisianthus

Engagement Invitations

2008-03-15T17:11:00.004+11:00

Woo Hoo !!

We finally finished our invitations tonight YAY !!!

I was starting to get very nervous as it is so close to the party and we still need to do all the resizing, assembling, cutting and addressing ourselves. And none of this could begin until Paperartzi printed the cards! We proofed them nearly 4 weeks ago and they still had not started printing them!

So, I went in yesterday and stood in the shop until they either printed them or refunded my money. Needless to say 45mins later they were printed and I was on my way home planning our DIY day for today! and they turned out great !

Now we just have to take them to the post office on Monday

Our Invitation Design

2008-02-28T18:47:00.006+11:00

I'm finally making headway on the invitation front. After we settled on a chocolate and pink theme we visited a few specialty paper shops today and with the help of the invitation designer we have selected our materials :

Pink Card stock

Wrapped in translucent Marie Antoinette paper

Then ties with golden chocolate rat's tail satin ribbon

Then I have a chcoclate envelope & a silver seal

We have decided to let the supplier print the invitations on the card stock and DB and I will give the assembly a go ourselves!

As time is running out we wrote & proof read the cards today and they should be ready in 2 or 3 days!

How do you choose?

2008-02-20T17:51:00.003+11:00

With so many gorgeous papers and invitation designs, I have no idea how am I going to choose just one for our invitations! Let alone the actual design & paper for them! I adore stationary & paper crafts so I knew it would be a tough decision, but this is going to take a while :) So far some of my favorites are :

By Papel Vivo

Studio AYT

Oh Happy Day

I have already lost track of how to find some of these again, so I really need to start a list of my favorite websites & suppliers! – that will be the first project after our party.

We are going to getting working on our theme & colors this week as we need to have this finalised before we are able to make the final choice anyway. So until then I will keep searching for the perfect invitation!

My Favorite Websites

2008-02-09T15:47:00.000+11:00

Here in spot so I can keep track of the best websites I come across Planning Wedding style Guide http://styleguide.com.au/ Photo's Project Wedding www.projectwedding.com

My Wedding Scrapbook

2008-01-28T22:49:00.000+11:00

My Scrapbook so far

I will keep adding pages as I finish them

The Wedding Planning Suitcase!

2008-01-26T14:34:00.014+11:00

The ultimate planning bag! After my planning & scrapbook journal this is my most valuable wedding planning possession. I love this bag I got on our last trip to Disneyland last year (along with the “Disney Fairy Tale Weddings - How To Plan Your Dream Wedding" dvd) and it is our wedding stuff all in the one place.

Inside I keep my Hunter Valley & Knot Wedding Planner, Journals, gel pens, scissors, stapler, glue, tape, higher, note cards, small photo album (with supplier business cards & photo’s of things I am looking for), colour wheel, Bride Post-its and also my favourite “Sometimes Brides Forget” Post-its & Note book & an emergency chocolate supply.

Only one final piece is still needed in my planning pack....the new edition WDW travel guides !

FRIDAY 28 NOVEMBER 2008

Woo Hoo my planning books finally arrived !!!!!

My Planning Notebook

2008-01-22T13:34:00.037+11:00

The best piece of advice I can give any b2b is get yourself the biggest blank notebook you can find and keep it as your planning journal. I love mine (both of them) and I don’t know how I would survive without them. You will have thousand of moments that you won’t want to forget, plus you need somewhere to keep your ideas, inspirations, magazine cut-outs & articles, material & other samples you like, supplier details, checklists, wish list (the if money was no object I would choose..) cards, letters and photo’s. I found a big blank notebook on sale and covered in paper & ribbon to make it different. Originally mine started as a collection of notes, things I liked, things I didn’t want to forget, thoughts and a place to keep all our letters & cards we had been given. Then we were given a fantastic selection of Jolee's Boutique wedding stickers as an engagement present, and my inner scrapbooking took over. Now I am keeping it as Our Wedding Journal and I have a separate one for checklists, scribbling and all the Paraphernalia you collect.

My Inspiration Board

2008-01-17T23:19:00.016+11:00

I have been working on mood/inspiration boards, to try out the ideas, colours, themes and style I like and see what works well together.

We're engaged now what ???

2007-12-22T11:52:00.003+11:00

We got engaged on the 11th November 2007 and the very first thing we wanted to do was enjoy being together & engaged for a little while, before all the hysteria and questions started. After all we hadn’t rushed into this and we are going to be married for the rest of our lives, so I think we deserved a little time for us. We bought ourselves a little time and waited a few weeks before telling our parents, Matt’s sister, my brothers and our friends. Then the question started… what’s the date! when’s the big day ! what’s the date ! what’s the date ! what’s the date ! So we choose November 2008, then 16th May 2009 and now it’s the 5th September 2009. If another person wants to travel overseas, go on an exchange program or get married on that day I simply don’t care as we will not be moving it again. So officially our weekend wedding will be from Thursday 3rd September 2009 to Sunday 6th September 2009 !

We're finally getting married

2007-12-04T23:15:00.005+11:00

10 years & 24 days later WERE ENGAGED .….. seriously Matt & Ness ... getting Married 2009 !

Our dream was to get married in Disneyland (well...actually...it was Mauritius, then Sun Set point at Disney World! but Disneyland (being closer & saving an additional 5 hr flight) was the first compromise we made, to try and keep our families happy....the first of many as it turns out ). After several months of trying to get our family to take us seriously (all except my FSIL who was ready to book tickets! The first day we started to talk about it) we comprised & comprised and now we are set to marry in the Hunter Valley in 2009.
So this was going to be our Destination Mauritius, then WDW, then Disneyland Wedding Blog....... but will now be our Destination Hunter Valley Wedding with as much Disney as I can possibly squeeze in.