Our Magical New York Wedding-- a Pixie Dusted Wedding and Honeymoon Report! About This Page:

[MyRapunzal]

Happy 2009 (almost)!
So, here I am on New Years Eve-- can't believe its going to be 2009! Ahhh I am going to be TWENTY SIX-- that means my age is closer to thirty than twenty, officially. Bleh. Anyways, I hear 30 is the new 20 so maybe it won't be so bad, this whole aging thing! lol!

Anyways, hope all had a great holiday! We did over here! We got an awesome new DKNY shower curtain (it was on our registry) a bunch of gift cards, some video games (Wii Fit, Lego Indiana Jones, Fallout 3), and blu rays (Tinkerbell-- loved it!!, Prince Caspian, Stepbrothers, and Dark Knight) some clothes and books and other wishlist items! Here are a few pics I wanted to share.


This is me and my niece on Christmas morning!


Rob with my bro's dog (my bro is in orange in the background) Sheeba in her new hoodie (which matched Liam's..lol)


And of course, my pooch with his hoodie and Mickey Mouse ears on! lol!

We also got him some glow in the dark tennis balls. Well actually I saved them from his winnings from the Halloween Costume contest to give him for Christmas. By the way, speaking of that and all those groceries we'd won, when we signed up for our new cell phone plan we sent in like $150 worth of rebates from verizon and I just started to get them back and they are Visa prepaid debit cards so we lucked out with more free groceries (and I got some free bath and body works)! Sweet right? I still have one more $50 one on the way and we have some Target Gift Cards from xmas so that is a nice little way to save some money!

Anyways, we have definately gotten a lot of wedding stuff done and I don't feel completely overwhelmed (as I did for a few weeks in the fall). I am starting to really put the images of what I want (and Rob wants) our wedding to be together in my mind.

Here is the update of things we have completed:
Date
Ceremony Cite
Ceremony Officiant
Reception Hall
DJ
Photographer
Engagement Party
Save The Dates
Purchased Invitations
Purchased Wedding Dress
Purchased Bridesmaid dresses

Need to do:
Mail out rest of Save the Dates
Take Pre-Cana Course
Meet with Priest
Meet with Photographer
Meet with DJ
Meet with Baker/Florist from Reception Hall
Finish getting Bridal Party/Groomsmen gifts (and probably something for our parents too)
Purchase our Wedding bands
Pick ou tuxes
Get fitted for tuxes/alterations on dresses
Favors
And my mom is gong to do the bouquets and make the Flower Girl dress
And I am sure I left out all the little odds and ends that will come up!

As far as Money Honey...
We have those few main sections:
Honeymoon, Photographer, Church, and Wedding Bands

Honeymoons total cost will (including flights) be around $2500... of which we have put down our $500 deposit leaving $2000 left

Photography we havent paid any (not even my dad back for the deposit) so we still owe approximately $3700

Church we found out that the Pre-Cana courses are only $200 total of which we are going to use my prescription co-pay reimbursement check from 2008 to pay for it so that leaves us with the $400 fee for the ceremony site left

And I havent even began to look at wedding bands. Honestly, we both like the simply white gold and in a worst case scenario we could not get them engraved to save money. Im not worried.

So we have $6,100 left to pay AND have paid out only around $700 thus far. My plan is to be able to pay off the rest of the honeymoon with our tax returns. Save the photographer money, and depending on what our returns looks like either use taxes to pay for the Church or save that addtionally. That means we are looking at actually dishing out between $3700 and $4100. Heres hoping that all works out! lol!

Also, we sat down and made a list of all the places we would like to visit and a lot of the stuff we put down matched up! Here's what we came up with... in no particular order (kinda)...
1. California (both)
2. UK (both)
3. Japan (both)
4. France (Me)
5. Italy/Greece (Me)
6. Las Vegas

So I think we are going to go for California first with a little trip to the place where it all began! I am hoping to go over my Spring break in 2010. Since we have our upcoming wedding/honeymoon this summer, than Rob wants to go to Pittsburgh to see a Penguins game (and we will prob go for the weekend) in the Fall, and I have a few Broadway plays I want to check off my to-do list I think it would be both feasible and fun. I actually already ordered a copy of the Deluxe refill for Cali! LOL! I know, I am crazy!!!

Also, just cause I just remembered it-- for the Bridesmaids so far I have gotten each one a necklace (not for the wedding but for everyday wear since the dresses dont really need necklaces) and I think I might get them these for wedding day: http://shop.avon.com/shop/product.as...rep_delivery=1
My mom sells Avon and I ordered myself a pair to see how the packaging looks. I also want to get them these cosmetic mirrors: Glitter Galore Compact for your Bridesmaids - Exclusively Weddings
and some kind of little kit with shower gel and stuff in it. I thought I could give them the mirrors, bath stuff, and earrings at the rehearsal dinner and then the necklaces aftewards. I dunno. Not sure for the boys yet- I like the idea of cufflinks but feel like we would need to get something else as well. May have my mom make us all tshirts for the rehearsal dinner too... and I have found loads of cute flower girl and ring bearer stuff.

Okay anyways now I am rambling! Hope that was an update enough to keep you guys going for a few weeks! I will have table cards done probably by the next update as well as some of the other little odds and ends!

TTFN!

[Colexis Mom]

Happy New Year!! It sounds like things are coming along!!

[KandJluvdisney]

merry christmas and happy new year to the 3 of you

[scdisneyfan]

Happppppy Newwwww Year!!!!! I am so glad you liked the card. I didnt know if i should send it but then i just thought i had to*LOL* I'm glad you liked it!
I am in with the wii fit although its my mom's and she lives 7 hours away*LOL* I really enjoyed using it while i was there and i'm now scheming for my own.. Wow! so much going on with and for you guys.....sounds like you guys got some great gifts. I"m glad to hear the wedding plans are coming along and moving along. I hope you guys have a great new years eve!

[wayneava81]

I'm finally caught up! I loved your engagement party cake and cookies! Your dress is gorgeous and the bridesmaids dresses also! Your honeymoon destination is beautiful!

[chezp]

Happy new year! It sounds like you're set with lots of things - and I love those destination choices. I can thoroughly recommend the UK and will be reporting back on Japan in April.

[Kenny]

Happy New Year, Mel, Rob, and Liam!!
You have a lot to keep you busy this year... and a LOT to look forward to!!
I don't think you need to be worrying about 30 for at least 4 more years... and then, it will be a breeze!!

[MyRapunzal]

Originally Posted by Colexis Mom

Happy New Year!! It sounds like things are coming along!!

Originally Posted by KandJluvdisney

merry christmas and happy new year to the 3 of you

Thanks!! Happy 2009 to you and yours as well!

Originally Posted by scdisneyfan

Happppppy Newwwww Year!!!!! I am so glad you liked the card. I didnt know if i should send it but then i just thought i had to*LOL* I'm glad you liked it!
I am in with the wii fit although its my mom's and she lives 7 hours away*LOL* I really enjoyed using it while i was there and i'm now scheming for my own.. Wow! so much going on with and for you guys.....sounds like you guys got some great gifts. I"m glad to hear the wedding plans are coming along and moving along. I hope you guys have a great new years eve!

I have to get your address again so I can send you guys stuff next year... and so I can send you some engagement congrats cause I am sure you guys aren't too far away from it either!
As far as WiiFit goes its awesome! It tricks you into working out! lol! I always get determined to finish a balance game and by the time I get off my legs are sore!

Originally Posted by wayneava81

I'm finally caught up! I loved your engagement party cake and cookies! Your dress is gorgeous and the bridesmaids dresses also! Your honeymoon destination is beautiful!

Thank you so much! I have been having a lot of fun picking everything out!

Originally Posted by chezp

Happy new year! It sounds like you're set with lots of things - and I love those destination choices. I can thoroughly recommend the UK and will be reporting back on Japan in April.

OMG! I cant wait to hear about your trip to Japan! Its so much money for us but seems so enticing to us as well! When we start to plan our UK adventure I will def be PMing you!!!

Originally Posted by Kenny

Happy New Year, Mel, Rob, and Liam!!
You have a lot to keep you busy this year... and a LOT to look forward to!!
I don't think you need to be worrying about 30 for at least 4 more years... and then, it will be a breeze!!

LOL! I guess thats a good way to look at it! My sister is going to be 29 this year and she isn't exactly worried!
But I did have a bit of a quarter-life crisis this past year turning 25 and all! lol!

[amandal]

Originally Posted by MyRapunzal

. and so I can send you some engagement congrats cause I am sure you guys aren't too far away from it either!

I had to read this twice cuz I thought I missed something big . . . . . Then I realized what you were saying, Mel. It sounds like the wedding stuff is all working out really well. My girlfriend and I have a motto that we use in our business and it's "planning is only stressful if you let it be". It pertains to you too, and I'm glad you've stopped letting it stress you out. . . . .

Can't wait to hear more. I'm glad you guys had a great Christmas and here's to a Fabulous 2009. (and don't worry about 26 - I'll be 30 in 13 days )

[skateycat]

all i can say is li is too stinkin' cute in his new hoodie and ears. and love love love the earrings.....thanks for sharing the pics from your xmas day....i felt almost like i was a part of the celebration. oh, by the way, if you SHOULD somehow manage to attend the wise women celebration? you already got the jammies for our jammie jam breakfast! (yeah, i know...shameless plug and attempt at getting you to come with us....he he he....can't blame me for tryin, right?)

[MyRapunzal]

Originally Posted by amandal

I had to read this twice cuz I thought I missed something big . . . . . Then I realized what you were saying, Mel. It sounds like the wedding stuff is all working out really well. My girlfriend and I have a motto that we use in our business and it's "planning is only stressful if you let it be". It pertains to you too, and I'm glad you've stopped letting it stress you out. . . . .

Can't wait to hear more. I'm glad you guys had a great Christmas and here's to a Fabulous 2009. (and don't worry about 26 - I'll be 30 in 13 days )

LOL! You crack me up! Did you see what I replied to u in Crissy's TR? Oh and BTW, are you guys going to find out if its a girl or boy? Thats like only a few weeks away right? k... ill stop asking you a million questions now!

Originally Posted by skateycat

all i can say is li is too stinkin' cute in his new hoodie and ears. and love love love the earrings.....thanks for sharing the pics from your xmas day....i felt almost like i was a part of the celebration. oh, by the way, if you SHOULD somehow manage to attend the wise women celebration? you already got the jammies for our jammie jam breakfast! (yeah, i know...shameless plug and attempt at getting you to come with us....he he he....can't blame me for tryin, right?)

LOL! If money is not tight from us doing other things and saving for other things (and using our wedding gifts to pay off our debts) then i will do my best to convince Rob! lol! and i have DISNEY PJS too!! I wish I could attend the celebration!!! and thanks for the comments about the earrings and li in his new stuff! I just only ordered one pair to make sure they were a good size... if they are too big i dont think they will be as cute... or if they look chincy... my sister got my niece a pair in the WOD store in NYC and they were exactly what would have worked for the bridal party so she can even match!

[scdisneyfan]

i know amanda i had to read it twice too *LOL* I wouldve def told you if i were engaged....there's going to be this big text that goes out no matter where i'm at or what time it is

Mel, pm me and i'll give it to you again. I love sending snail mail. Its always fun to open an unexpected card or something. We looked at rings again last night. He's been making small talk alot about it...really cool stuff

i'm wondering if we will get the wii just for the wii fit and well mario cart cause i love that too! Yea, my legs were so sore and my sides from the hula hooping!!! wooooo....what a work out...
ohhhh and dont think i've been seeing your 30 comments its all okay because i got asked today if i was 24!!!
I love little liams costume at christmas. I meant to tell you how hard i laughed at the mickey ears....i just want to give him big hugs he's so cute!!!!

[Gembley]

hi and congrats i have only just found you pre trip report and i have to say everything seems to be coming along nicely.

As has been said before i can defiantly recommend the UK there are so many places to see, (not just London) that are amazing it is well worth a trip.

Im glad to hear all your wedding plans are coming together. I loved planning for my wedding it was the most amazing and stressful time in my life and if i could go back and do it all again i would as it was the most wonderful day of my life.

I will look forward to reading about everything

Happy 2009

[amandal]

Originally Posted by MyRapunzal

LOL! You crack me up! Did you see what I replied to u in Crissy's TR? Oh and BTW, are you guys going to find out if its a girl or boy? Thats like only a few weeks away right? k... ill stop asking you a million questions now!

Yes, I did read your reply and I'm actually praying that I go early since I'm the Maid of Honor in my sisters wedding on Sept 6th which is only a month after my "technical" due date. My SIL went 2 weeks early and I'm hoping to follow suit.

And the minute my Dr. tells me when I can schedule the "gender" appointment I'm doing it. I'm not a fan of yellow and green at all.

[MyRapunzal]

Originally Posted by scdisneyfan

i know amanda i had to read it twice too *LOL* I wouldve def told you if i were engaged....there's going to be this big text that goes out no matter where i'm at or what time it is

Mel, pm me and i'll give it to you again. I love sending snail mail. Its always fun to open an unexpected card or something. We looked at rings again last night. He's been making small talk alot about it...really cool stuff

i'm wondering if we will get the wii just for the wii fit and well mario cart cause i love that too! Yea, my legs were so sore and my sides from the hula hooping!!! wooooo....what a work out...
ohhhh and dont think i've been seeing your 30 comments its all okay because i got asked today if i was 24!!!
I love little liams costume at christmas. I meant to tell you how hard i laughed at the mickey ears....i just want to give him big hugs he's so cute!!!!

I loved pre-engagement excitement just as much as I love being engaged! (Mostley cause it entailed a trip to WDW- lol!) I cant wait until you are planning too!
Also i must say you dont look 30 to me AT ALL! I think I will totally look my age though! Thats whats sad and pathetic and why I joined the challenger forums!
And the WiiFit is the first time Ive been EXCITED to exercise in so long! I wanted to do a 5k this late winter/spring but I feel like Im going to get into the WiiFits cardio stuff too much to train! lol! but I guess if im in shaping running wont be such a big issue!
Oh and thanks for the compliment on Li-- he would go bonkers if you gave him a hug. hes cute but crazy so he would literally hug you back! lol!

Originally Posted by Gembley

hi and congrats i have only just found you pre trip report and i have to say everything seems to be coming along nicely.

As has been said before i can defiantly recommend the UK there are so many places to see, (not just London) that are amazing it is well worth a trip.

Im glad to hear all your wedding plans are coming together. I loved planning for my wedding it was the most amazing and stressful time in my life and if i could go back and do it all again i would as it was the most wonderful day of my life.

I will look forward to reading about everything

Happy 2009

Welcome! I just replied to you on the challenger thread too! Im enjoying planning-- I really am! I think being a bride-to-be suites me quite well since Im a planner at heart! Im thinking London wont be for a while. If I have my way we will visit Cali in Spring 2010 and then WDW again in Winter. So if we can swing it financially maybe Summer 2011. Not TOO far away but Ill def be PMing all my UK Passporters for help!

Originally Posted by amandal

Yes, I did read your reply and I'm actually praying that I go early since I'm the Maid of Honor in my sisters wedding on Sept 6th which is only a month after my "technical" due date. My SIL went 2 weeks early and I'm hoping to follow suit.

And the minute my Dr. tells me when I can schedule the "gender" appointment I'm doing it. I'm not a fan of yellow and green at all.

Oooo! Im so hoping you go early too!
Annnnd although I love green-- I could not contain myself and be surprised. I STILL search for my christmas presents! lol! I could never not know what the gender of my baby was! so i def would have the same attitude as you!
Happy Thoughts coming your way for July 24!