Where do you draw the line?

This may sound a bit crazy but as I slowly approach planning & thinking about ideas for a wedding out pops the randomest people that must or "want" to be invited! I havent picked a place, a for sure date, or anything. The only thing I know is who I want to marry! Im already hearing a lot of "Dont forget to invite me" or "I better be invited" or "Am I on the A or B list?" lol! I find it quite comical! People shouldnt be scared if they are getting invited or not. If you even have a doubt that you might not be invited maybe you shouldnt be & arent very close to Derek or myself. Of course that could always be changed.

I have started to look at about 5 different locations to hold a wedding & am finding most if not all are accomodating 150-220 max! This is crazy considering I finished my first draft of my guest list & already made cuts for a total of 270! I looked at locations that can accomodate numbers as high as mine & they give a cold, big, & banquet hall vibe. Im seeking warm, cozy, & intimate. I just wish that the family members that are a "must", I would see them more that once a year on a big holiday..maybe.. if that. I want to be able to know my guests, recognize them, & have them already be familiar with Derek.. is that too much to ask?

Im sure all couples planning a wedding are facing the same challenges. If you were to see what you can do with a space & details you can add to a wedding of 150 you would cut out distant loved ones too!

We're Engaged.. The Short Story

Derek & I have been dating for 4 years this February. We met through a mutual friend & hit it off almost immediatly despite our existing relationships. Through the years we went through many many hurtful & happy times despite it all, we both knew this was forever.

My 23rd birthday was on Oct 24th & I thought wow im in my mid-twenties. Whoever knows me knows I have a serious life timeline. I envisioned having a career (got it!), getting married, & taking it from there. 23 years old was the beginning. I truly though I was behind & Derek wasn't in a state of proposing anytime soon. Little did I know!

He chose to take matters of my birthday in his own hands. We had a fabulous dinner at the Pacific Palms Hotel at a restaurant called 'Red'. Amazing views, service, conversation, & food. After dinner Derek & I walked to have a moment alone with the breathtaking view. After spending a few minutes chatting about how great dinner was & what is in store for the rest of the night Derek started talking about our relationship. He said it's time for your birthday gift & began to get down on one knee. I shouted "what are you doing" which I couldn't believe it was actually happening. After a few special words & tears he gave me a ring only I had imagined..


I could not have asked for more, it was a moment only we will share & a lifetime we will share together.