With Only a Week Left...

Ashley and Brad were married on April 5, in a beautiful ceremony surrounded by friends and family. While rain threatened via weatherman not a cloud was seen in the sky that day.

I talked with Ashley a week before the big day and asked her a few pre-wedding questions.

Vicky: With less than a week left to go what is still on your to do list?

Ashley: What is left to do, let’s see. I have to finish the seating chart (almost done) and then the table cards. They have to be delivered to the reception site on Thursday. I have to finish putting the final touches on the out of town bags (just need to pick 2 things up at mom’s house to stuff in the bags and write my note cards). Deliver the stuff to the reception site. That all needs to be packed into boxes. They are currently in 3 tubs in the basement. Instructions will come with everything that has to be delivered. If your curious that includes: Cake Topper, Cake Cutting Set, Table Numbers & Holders, Favors, Signature Platter and Pens, Table Cards, Seating Arrangement, Wedding Wishes Vase + Paper + Pens, Cameras, Basket for Cards, Basket for Cameras (once used), Vases for head table, Glasses to be used by Bridal Party, Engagement Photo (ooh need frame), Music list and instructions (just to have a second copy just in case)
4) Pack items to take to church (Dress, Underthings, Shoes - both pairs, Makeup, Jewelry, Wrap, Emergency Kit, Programs (have to print), Directions (have to go to Kinkos), Reading book) Whew!

I still need to make signs for reception area. The balloons to be picked up by dad on Saturday and I need to give him the receipt and his instructions. Pack, which requires doing laundry, for the honeymoon. Also requires batteries for camera & camcorder (ooh need bigger memory card)Brad is handling the rehearsal dinner errands on Friday. He is also picking up my ring, which will go in the strong box next to his tonight, well after I ogled it some more. Then, clean for house guests, practice dancing again, we practiced last night and got most of it down but the ending throws Brad off. Create instructions for parents regarding the dog, cat, fish and plants for while we are gone. Lastly, survive two more days at work, where they haven’t let me off the hook work wise.

I feel like I’m missing something on this list....

Vicky: Missing something? I hope not, that is a lot to do! Are you having anymore nightmares?

Ashley: Nope, no more nightmares, but I have been crashing hard lately so not even sure if I’m dreaming – although last night I dreamt about playing in a giant moon bounce – but that relates to station stuff not wedding stuff.

Vicky: You already answered this but, have you packed for your honeymoon?

Ashley: Nope haven’t packed yet. I’ve got a mental list going on. I will probably bring the suitcases upstairs tonight and begin my staging of clothes. I learn this habit from my mom. I put all the things I want to take in the suitcase (no particular order and certainly not packed) that way I know what I need to grab and what I need to wash. Leaves a messy room but a straight mind for me.

Vicky: That is a great idea. We should do a piece on packing. How are you feeling? Crazed? Excited? nervous?

Ashley: I’m excited. I’m not nervous yet. I’m anxious because I’m at work when I have so many other things I could be doing. I wanted to try and get out early tomorrow but that is looking like a wash. I’m such the planner as you know so with the “event” actually coming up things are speeding up and I get a bit anxious at this point. I’m trying not to get overwhelmed and I think once the stuff goes to the reception site I will be relaxed (since so much has to be delivered).

Vicky: How are you and Brad getting along? Sometimes the pre-wedding jitters and stress gets to couples.

Ashley: Brad and I are great. We are still going on about our daily lives, even took his car to the shop last night and had exciting Subway for dinner before practicing dancing and watching TV, well he watched I did wedding stuff. We are both of the mindset that this is going to happen no matter what and things will go crazy for moments before but not to get too worried. He very rarely worries so I’m trying to feed off him. And truthfully I will never tell anyone if I’m really maxed out or not, it is not my style.

Tune in later for wedding low-down and honeymoon details from Ashley as we wrap up this segment with our featured bride....

The Bridesmaid Luncheon

Whenever I hear the term 'bridesmaid luncheon' I think of cakes stuffed full of trinkets, tea parties, flowing summer dresses and all manner of stuffy and entirely elegant moments. The Bridesmaid luncheon has been around for quite some time and I'm sure that back in the day fluffy frosted cakes, antiquated traditions and the desire to show off wedding presents was one of the reasons that these lunches were given. These days it is simply a way for the bride to say thank you to her friends for being part of her wedding. And sometimes for putting up with her.

Ashley, one of our featured brides, recently held her bridesmaid luncheon and it was a fun mid-day event that wasn't at all stuffy. She treated us all to a nice waterside lunch, gave us goody bags full of treats including a divine shawl to wear to her wedding and necklaces she made herself to match our bridesmaid dresses. It was touching, sweet and really quite lovely. No fuss, no muss.

Typically, these lunches are held one to two weeks before the wedding. It is a good time for out of town guests to meet each other too. The bride thanks her attendants, doles out any gifts she may have and basically spends a fun afternoon with 'her girls'. You know what else is great about this event? It is entirely optional. You don't have to throw it. Sure, if you have the time and spare cash - go for it! However, there should be no stressing out if this isn't your thing or you simply cannot find the time or coin to do so. A simple thank you note can also do the trick.

For some great ideas regarding a bridesmaid thank you fete as I've decided to call it visit the following sites-

Simple Answers Here!

From Brides Magazine

Always Fabulous

Photo from vibride.com

Featured Bride Ashley- Post-Shower

This past weekend was our featured bride, Ashley's Bridal Shower. To date her wedding is less than one month away. Planning is in full swing and the festivities have begun!

Vicky: OK, Ashley, let's talk Bridal Shower! What was your favorite part of the shower?

Ashley: My favorite part of the shower was having everyone there. The people invited were not all from the same "group" so it was nice to have everyone there and watch as they mingled.

Vicky: That's great! I can't think of any better way to do that. A mixed guest list is always a good idea. It helps people get to know one another before the big event. Did you help out with it at all or where you totally hands off?

Ashley: I offered as much help as possible but for the most part was hands off. I did help cut some of the croissants only becasue mom hadn't gotten to them and people would be arriving soon. I'm such a planner when it comes to a party that it was really odd that I didn't do much prep or cooking.

Vicky: I noticed you tackling those as I walked in. I'm glad you didn't do too much work. Did having the shower make the wedding date seem that much closer or real?

Ashley: Actually the shower did make the wedding seem real. With just about a month to go I'm finally getting excited about the whole wedding and not just individual parts.

Vicky: What did Brad (fiance) do while you were 'showering'?

Ashley: Brad and his dad went and had pizza and hung out at our house. Oz is such an animal person he loves to play with Tope (Ashley's dog) and Jasper (her cat) so they just hung out.

Vicky: Well I thought it was a success! Not too many games and the ones played helped to break the ice, familiarize people with you and everyone else and got people laughing. I think everyone had a good time!

*Photo by Victoria Mason, Ashley gets a domestic goddess gift from yours truly.

Featured Bride Ashley- In a Whirlwind of Wedding Planning

With a little over a month, left until the big day Ashley’s world has become one filled with wedding activities. Each day seems to bring something new to do, let alone her weekends, which are full of upcoming events such as her bridal shower, bachelorette party and more. We checked in with her to see how she is faring, what is new, been accomplished and how she is feeling about the event as a whole.

Vicky: Hi Ashley, what is new?

Ashley: A lot! Wedding stuff is really going now. The invitations went out last week. We have begun getting RSVP’s back – so far, all yeses.

Sunday after church Brad, Heather (Ashley’s sister), John (her BIL) and I headed up to North Arlington for a dance lesson. It was fun and we learned the basic steps for the Fox Trot, which will work with our song. Now we just have to practice a bit and see if we can get one more lesson in before the wedding. My shoes were killing me though so I need to purchase some gelly inserts, despite wearing them around the house to break them in. Ugh! Brad and I did a good job dancing. Heather and John did also but Heather kept trying to turn it into a Texas 2-step which they just laughed at. I was proud that Brad and I got it and got it good. They even gave us a little entrance and ending bit to do which should be funny. Brad almost dropped me because I was not centered on him at first.

I ordered the Mother’s presents on Friday so they should be in within the next 2 weeks. The wedding favors are on order and will arrive in March. My signature plate will ship at the end of this month. I have to finish the other two bridesmaid’s gifts and give to dad to put on the findings that will take an hour max. I have my appointment to get my hair trail run on March 11 also going to get our wedding license that day! I am going to pick up the information for the honeymoon; the DJ has the music list and will be calling soon to meet with us to go over the last bit. The church is now all set.

V: Whew! That leaves me breathless. It is a lot of work, tasks to complete and small things to remember at this point but it must be exciting and fun too. It sounds like it is really coming together.

A: There’s more! Brad and I are going to Famous Dave's tonight to talk with them about catering the rehearsal dinner. Gift bags are slowly coming together. I need to steam my crinoline and hang that up with my dress. Flowers should be calling in about 3 weeks to give final numbers and such.

V: You are really getting into the detailed parts of wedding planning now. How are you feeling about it all? Excited? Nervous?

A: Mom said to me last night, “So are you excited that your shower is next weekend?” and I was like “Oh yea that is next weekend”. I am wondering if I am a bad bride – I am not all nervous or stressed out about things. I keep getting asked if I’m excited and/or nervous. Yes, I am happy but not excited and certainly not nervous. I am sure I will be the closer we get to the wedding day, a bit of both too. I am just happy that it is coming together well.

V: Sounds great! I think you are doing great too. Not too stressed and not going over the edge as some brides begin to at this point. How is the 10-week fitness challenge going?

A: Not as well as it should. I have eliminated all but one soda a day, which is great! I was drinking three previously, but I am not hitting the gym or even working out at home as I should and could. I need to make it more of a priority and routine. I am bogged down with tasks on the weekend and feeling like it is too late at night after I get home from work. It is still dark out and cold. Not very motivating to say the least. I have also stopped eating all fast/fried foods for Lent so at least I am on track there.

V: I hear you. I have been good about the gym portion but the eating has me. This week I am determined to stop eating so much sugar and just keep up the gym portion. I think we can do it! We still have a month. Not all is lost! I will keep on you, if you keep on me.

We will check back with Ashley soon and if you have any tips for de-stressing during wedding planning or motivating tips for staying on track with the gym and getting healthy please feel free to share them with the rest of the readers!

Featured Bride Ashley- Love is Blooming

As the days wind down, our bride Ashley, is getting closer and closer to her April wedding date. She has now registered and finalized a few of the other smaller aspects of the wedding like picking out Brad's tux, stamps have been ordered and so have the fancy napkins. Ooh la la. Now we talk to Ashley about one of the most beautiful parts of a wedding, the flowers.


Vicky- OK Ashley, again thanks for sharing. You have now visited your florist and chosen your flowers. Who is your florist?

Ashley- Thank you. Yes, the florist is Mary’s Flower Shoppe in Triangle, VA

V- Why did you choose them?

A- When we got engaged it was a no brainer for me. Mary’s is the local flower shop in my area, Mary herself is a lovely woman,along with her whole staff and family are lovely people. They always do beautiful work. They did my sister’s flowers for her wedding 11 years ago, they always do the flowers for the [fire]station’s events and I go there when I want an arrangement.

V- Great- so you really know their work. Is there a theme or colors that you are using?

A- Well, since our colors are blue and silver with some pearl, the flowers were a bit harder to choose, silk and real flowers just don’t come naturally in deep blue so we had to focus on the ivory and accent with blue ribbon and silver hints.

V- What types of flowers did you decide to use?

A- We have a variety of flowers. First, we have a mix of silk and real flowers. My bouquet will have gardenias in it mostly; the rest of the floral arrangements will have roses, white lilies, stephanotis, baby’s breath, etc.

V- I hear baby's breath are making a comeback- in small, tight groups mostly. Gardenias are always beautiful too. Sounds gorgeous. Are you over budget or under? A major part of a wedding budget(25-40%) usually goes to flowers.

A- I wasn’t quiet sure how much we were going to spend on flowers. I knew it would be a hefty price tag. We came in probably higher than I expected but I think they will be worth it. We are saving money as we are not doing flower arrangements at the church. First, my church is beautiful without floral arrangements on the altar (think stone, wood and stained glass). Second, we are getting married only 2 weeks after Easter so the church will still be decorated for Easter.

V- That is a nice bonus not having to decorate the church. I often tell brides not to bother. Some churches want to keep the flowers and it is for such a short period of time why bother? Use tulle, ribbons or something else creative if you must decorate. Will you be doing just reception flowers or more?

A- We have flowers for the reception, the centerpieces, and those are probably the most expensive because of the arrangement I fell in love with and the fact that we need 18 or 19 tables of arrangements.

V- Wow. That is a good number. Are they big? Little? What are the table arrangements like?

A- Actually they are big. They are a two level arrangements with a sliver pillar type thing in the middle. I was originally leaning towards low lying arrangements but the reception facility coordinator said that with the tall ceilings of the reception room, tall arrangements make a bigger statement. They certainly have a “wow” factor. When the florist brought out the centerpiece container I’m using my eyes got really big and it was a done deal. They are so cool. I’m so excited.

V- What inspired you? Did you see something in a magazine or online?

A- I was having such a hard time completely visualizing the flowers for the wedding. I loved so many aspects of all these different arrangements I saw in magazines and online that it was really hard to say what I was seeing in my head. We spent two hours with the florist picking out everything. If money was no object I’m sure we would have gotten much more extravagant but I wanted to not lose my head (or the shirt off our backs) when it came to flowers. All in all, I’m very happy with what we decided on.

V- That's great! As always I can't wait to see it. I'm sure it will all be beautiful. Thanks for talking with us.


UPDATE: Ashley has completed week one of the FT 10-week challenge. She is on track and meeting her goals too. She has already noticed a difference in her arms which are looking more toned. People have also commented on how her face looks thinner. That is all great motivation to keep going and get even more results! Keep up the good work Ashley!

Vicky has also maintained her goals making it to the gym twice for her 1.5 hour weight class and doing two days of cardio. She has also eliminated a lot of bad foods and upped the amount of vegetables and fruit she is consuming.

The Ten Week Challenge

There are eleven weeks left until our featured bride Ashley's wedding. That being said Ashley has decided to do a ten week challenge of sorts with yours truly.

Like many brides she wants to tone her arms and lose a bit of weight before that final fitting. She and I have concocted a plan for both of us to stay motivated, tone up and lose some weight over a ten week period. We'll keep you updated as we update our dorky little excel spreadsheets, penalize each other for skipping the gym and try to achieve our goals. Loser will buy dinner for the both of them.

Our goals-

Ashley: Cut back on Diet soda from 3-4 cans a day to 1-2. (So far she seems to be doing this really well)
Hit the gym 2-3 times a week for cardio.
Use the weight machines for a good all around arm workout.
Cut out all fried and fast foods. Lent is starting soon and that is what she has decided to give up.

Vicky: Gym time will include a 1.5 hour weights class working the whole body twice a week. Plus 2-3 cardio visits.
Cut out fast food.
Eat more fruits and vegetables throughout the day. (I tend to eat less during the winter and I need them.)

So there you have it. What we are doing is motivating each other mainly and trying to help ourselves out in the process. I think this is something that would be great for many brides to do. Remember that what you put into it is really what you get out of it. You have to make it part of your routine and not just a thought. Then you will have success. So gather up your bridesmaids or a friend or family member. Form a pact and "get in shape girl!" Hey! I'm a child of the 80's what do you want from me?

Best of luck to both of us and stay tuned!

In other news, we here at Flaming Tulle have found our next featured bride. She's from Maryland and we can't wait to share her story with all of you.

Featured Bride Ashley- The Honeymoon

Ashley and Brad are one of those lucky couples who actually get to take a honeymoon. Sometimes after the cost of the wedding or even without it you just cannot find the funds. It is totally fine to take a break later (my husband and I finally managed a trip two years later!)too. Ashley however has long dreamed of visiting their post-wedding destination- Atlantis! Here's what she had to say.


Vicky- How did you decide on the place?

Ashley- I actually found out about Atlantis from a television show (and it is featured in the recent motion picture Casino Royale). I did some online browsing and fell in love with the place. I’ve talked to a few people who have been there and they loved Atlantis. Brad and I wanted to go to a tropical/beach place for our honeymoon and this was perfect! It has it all, beach, pools, casino, shopping, food, history, etc.

V- Sounds wonderful! Are you going right after the wedding and for how long?

A- We leave on the Monday right after the wedding and come back on the following Saturday.

V- That is a nice little trip and enough time to refresh yourself after all the wedding hullabaloo. Did you have to compromise on anything regarding the location or any other part of the trip?

A- We didn’t really have to compromise on anything. It looked like we would have to compromise on the meal plans at first, but Atlantis did away with them so now it is not an issue. We can eat anywhere we choose.

V- That's good. I looked at those for my family and they were a tad on the expensive side and limiting. Any special things you will do while there?

A- Well I’m looking into swimming with the dolphins. Brad doesn’t really care if he does it but I’m just extremely excited about swimming with the dolphins. He bought me a camcorder for Christmas to take on our honeymoon so he says he will videotape me while I’m playing with the dolphins. It’s expensive but what a once in a lifetime opportunity. Other than that we plan to do the normal vacation stuff, sleep, eat, drink, sunbathe, relax, drink, eat, gamble, shop, did I mention eat and drink? I’m excited!

V- That sounds incredibly fun! Can't wait to see pictures! With three months left to go Ashley will be really busy and this trip will surely be a way to ease her and Brad's wedding tensions. We'll check back with her soon to see how the rest of the wedding planning is faring. I hear the invitations are less than traditional...




For more information on planning your honeymoon visit these great sites.

The Wedding Channel guide
Get a chance to review a resort
Helpful Tips

Featured Bride Ashley- Creating New Holiday Traditions

The holiday season is the time to get together with friends and family. Now that you are engaged and in full wedding planning mode you realize that you have to now plan around two families. It's not just your own that you celebrate with now. We asked Ashley, our Featured Bride, to tell us how she and her fiance Brad are dealing with this.

Vicky- Since you and Brad have been together how do you celebrate the holidays?

Ashley- For the last few years Thanksgiving has been a combined family event. With both sets of parents and my sister and brother-in-law close it has been easy to spend the holidays together. This year my mom cooked most of Thanksgiving dinner. Heather and John, Brad and I, Nancy, and Millie and Oz all went over to my mom and dad’s house. Everyone brought something to dinner so mom wasn’t overwhelmed. Millie and Oz had to travel the farthest (15 miles). It was really laid back between the appetizers, dinner, football, conversation and desert. The ladies chatted and naturally the men spent the day watching football. Two were even caught napping between dinner and desert but I won’t name any names (Brad and John).

I’m thinking until I get a bigger house, it will probably be like that unless someone else opts to host dinner. Mom and Dad have a big house that is open and works well for entertaining so everyone has room to move and the parking is really easy, not so much at my house.

V- It seems as if you and Brad have mastered Thanksgiving pretty well. It's nice that the families combine so easily. What about Christmas?

A- Christmas has also been pretty much the same for the last few years. On Christmas Eve, my family and Brad go over to the Lucke’s Christmas Party (friends of the family) for a few hours. I typically wave good-bye around 10:15 as I have to head off to the church to be part of the church choir for midnight mass at 11. After church we all head home and sleep (yea right its Christmas eve – who can sleep?!).

On Christmas morning Brad and I head over to my parent’s house for brunch and presents. Later that day we head up to Brad’s parents house for dinner and presents. This works well for Heather and John (Ashely's sister and BIL)as they go down to John’s parent’s house for dinner on Christmas Day. John’s parents always go up to New Jersey to see family on Thanksgiving so it isn’t an issue for them. I guess we are lucky that both sets of parents live close. I think it will work that way until someone else comes up with another idea of how they want to do the holidays.

V- Wow! That's great! Have you started any new traditions together?

A- The only new tradition we have is that on Christmas Day at my parent’s house, we put everyone’s names in a hat and pick a name. On New Years day we get together and give our “New Years Baby Present” to the person we chose out of the hat. You are only allowed to spend the amount of what the upcoming year is (i.e. $20.08 for next year) and the presents have to be fun. It’s like a Secret Santa but for New Years. I actually started that tradition about 5 or 6 years ago.

V- That is a good idea! It's nice to hear that not everyone has family issues with the holidays which can cause added stress on the engaged couple. Any new developments on the wedding front? What's coming up as we enter into 2008?

A- As far as planning for the wedding, we have a lot to accomplish in the next few months. I’m waiting for my mom’s revised guest list. I told her to consider removing some names – we were over 200 people on the list already.and we need to order the invitations in the next 2 weeks.

In December I have to call the florist to set up an appointment. I am waiting on a call back from my priest so we can finish the church requirements. We have to find out the results of our communication tool and to set the order for actual ceremony. Once that is done I have to see my music director about the music for the ceremony but she is in full on Christmas mode so I will meet with her after the holidays are over. I’m not worried she is my music director and my vocal teacher.

My first dress fitting needs to be arranged in January. I’ve started putting together a rough bridal registry which we will do just after the first of the year. Plus there is so much more! I guess I’m not really stressed because I’m focused on Christmas right now.

V- Well, let us know what we can do here for you and me personally. I am a bridesmaid after all! At least you aren't having any new wedding nightmares! We will check back with you after the holidays and talk about that registry!

Featured Bride Ashley- Dishes About Cake

Ashley continues her wedding planning journey and shares with us her cake story. So pull up a chair, find a piece of cake and read on.

Vicky- How did you choose your baker?

Ashley- Choosing the baker was easy. I chose Susan Thurston with The Cakery for numerous reasons. The first reason was that I have had her cakes before and they are yummy. The second reason is she make my sister's wedding cake. The third reason is she is such a wonderful person, very professional and very did I mention her cakes are yummy. The fourth reason is I actually have known her son Jason for 15 years. I met Jason when I joined the rescue squad. So needless to say it was a no brainer.

V- That's great! Finding a baker with great prices and good cakes is really tough sometimes. How many cakes did you taste and what varieties?

A- We tasted three different cakes. Red velvet, Chocolate and Yellow cake with Susan's traditional butter crème icing.

V- That sounds heavenly! I am a freak for butter creme! What did you come up with and how did that work?

A- We began by looking at books of past cakes Susan had done. I had something vague in my mind as to what I wanted but nothing was jumping out at me. Brad and I both found a design we really liked. We kept looking but always kept coming back to this one design. Then we chose the shape, I had always figured on a square cake but when I saw the hexagon I just knew that was it. Mix the hexagon shape with the elegant but simple design we loved and there you had it. Plus Brad asked to have a Susan incorporate a design from our cake topper into the pattern. I said to put in a hidden A if she wanted so we shall have to see if there is a hidden A in the pattern on the cake.

Because of our numbers and the design of the cake we have 4 tiers of cake (alternating flavors - red velvet with cream cheese filling and yellow with raspberry filling), with a "kitchen cake". The kitchen cake fills the gap where the wedding cake ends and the rest of the mouths to feed fit in. Susan said she will make it look exactly the same when they cute the cake and serve it so people won't know its a kitchen cake.

V- A kitchen cake is always a smart idea and an economical one too. I can't wait to see the design and taste it! Will you do a Groom's cake?

A- I have been planning a secret Groom's Cake for Brad. I need to call Susan and discuss with her the Groom's Cake but I was thinking I could have her turn the Kitchen Cake into the Groom's Cake (paying for the difference to have it specially decorated to his likes (sports).

V- Again, a great idea and a good way to combine the too and the cost. Are you satisfied with the pricing for your cake?

A- I am very much satisfied with the cake. I know it will be beautiful and very yummy tasting. Plus I know Susan will be prompt with her delivery. She works very frequently with the reception site and is on good terms with the facility coordinator. I am pleased with the pricing of the cake. According to my budget on theknot.com I came in under budget for the cake. Plus it was lower than the cost of the cake in my wedding dream. Yep that's right I had another wedding dream just a few weeks ago (the first one in a long time). In my dream the cake was $850 (gasp!).

V- Excellent! Coming in under budget is great. Try not to use that money at all. Stay under budget! Would you ever consider doing one of those cake waterfalls or fountains or lighted cakes and cake jewelry?

A- I looked at various pieces of cake jewelry and thought that they would be cool but never found anything that I really liked enough to order. Fountains or waterfalls are fine for some people but just not me.

The cake topper is a monogram letter A for Aldridge. Brad actually picked it out. Well I gave him 3 options and he chose from that.

V- It's always good talking with you. We'll be discussing bridesmaids with you next. Choosing the dress and so on. Thanks for sharing and we can't wait to hear more!

Featured Bride Ashley- Dancing the Night Away!

We're back with Ashley, our featured bride, and she has new news!

Vicky: So you found a DJ- who is it?
Ashley: The DJ is James Morton with Jam Entertainment (based out of North Carolina).

V: What made you choose that one?

A: We went with this company for two reasons. Brad is friends with a gentleman who is a local DJ with this company and Brad wanted to go with him, it's the whole friend thing. Well, his friend was unable to do our wedding as he is a groomsman in another wedding that same day so he arranged for the founder of the company (James) to do the wedding. I was a bit leary as I couldn't seem to find anything online about this company and I had never met James. We met with Brad's friend and discusses price ans such. We looked over the contract and the price was right but I was still having reservations. I called James and spoke with him over the phone for a good 30 minutes and instantly felt better. He was very friendly, answered many of my questions before I even asked them.

V: That's great! Will you have a set list or required music?
A: I will probably have a list of required music, still trying to figure that out, but as far as it goes, I would like a variety of music played so everyone can enjoy. I have made the caviate that I'm not a fan of most rap or hip/hop music so very minimal will be played. James says he likes to play all kinds of music and see how the crowd responds (as each crowd is different) and from the playlists and Brad and my list he will come up with a good selection of music. It's also up to us to allow musical requests or not (still trying to decide that).

V: Is the DJ going to do anything special like a light show?
A: I'm not sure. James is going to meet face to face with Brad and I in the coming future so I'm sure we will find out more then. I don't have anything special lined up but anything can change.

V: How much of a role did Brad (fiance) play in choosing the DJ?
A: Actually a big role. It was up to him to arrange for the meetings with his friend to discuss DJ services (with a bit of proding from me to get it done). Also, he had pretty much made up his mind he wanted to use them. I had in the meantime gotten some estimates and spoken with other DJs. I had another one that I really liked but while waiting for our meeting with Brad's friend, that DJ got another request and so I had to let go of my wanting to use him since we had no solid time to meet with Brad's friend.

V: How long did you look?
A: I don't know exactly how long it took but I would roughly say about 4 months. In the beginning it was mostly just getting prices and such but then it really became important that we book a DJ.


Congratulations Ashley! You are one step closer in planning your wedding. The day will be here before you know it!

Update- Wedding Nightmares

Featured Bride Ashley has just left my domain. As she was leaving with some fun products (think Arbonne!) she filled me in on her latest wedding related nightmare.

"It was last night." she said, "I dreamed I was outside of the grocery store having a bake sale. A bake sale to raise money to pay for the wedding!" Apparently in the dream Brad, her fiance, came over to help take down the table loaded with baked goodies as it was beginning to rain. Ashley did not want to leave as the treats were selling fast.

Not exactly a nightmare but a stress dream none the less.

Featured Bride Ashley New News!

Yes, we here at Flaming Tulle suck. We are deliquent little bloggers both gearing up for weddings, summer, and well, working. We here at Flaming Tulle deeply apologize for boring you are readers (really? we have readers?) with our lack of content.

And now Ashley! More news on the Ashley front since we last talked when she found her reception spot.

Vicky- So what's new? Any new vendors under contract? You know you have 10 months left!

Ashley- We chose Greenwood Photography. So that's off the list.

Vicky- Great! Tell me more about them and the whole choosing process.

Ashley- Their website is here. I actually heard of them through family. Heather (sister) said she and her husband looked at using Greenwood when they got married 10 years ago but went with someone else, which turned out to be a nightmare in itself. My mom works on the Navy Marine Corps Ball every year and told me that Greenwood had been taking the pictures for the ball for the last several years. I had already met with one potential photographer but wasn’t impressed, so I asked my parents to meet with Greenwood during the day and get some information so I could look over it. Mom and dad set up an appointment and met with Martin, one of the photographers for the company who would be my photographer if I opted to go with Greenwood. Mom was very good at gathering information about the different packages and then gave me the information. Brad and I looked at several different packages and discussed the various options offered and compared them to the other photographer’s packages. One night after work, mom, dad and I went back to Greenwood for a second meeting. Martin was not able to make the meeting but the owner of the company was there to answer any questions I might have.

I was very impressed with the photographs and the various albums available. I was also happy that the owner wasn’t pushing me to sign the moment I walked in the door. You could tell that he was confident that what they offered was a good deal and that they would provide me with the pictures of my wedding that I wanted. I also liked that this company had shot a number of weddings at my church and at the reception site. He even made suggestions of potential pictures and locations for pictures in the church and at the reception site that I hadn’t even thought of. What was funny was when we mentioned the church; the owner said he would be there that Sunday to finish taking the first communion pictures. It was a relief to know that this company knows the rules of shooting in my church; they already know the lighting and how wonderful the stained glass windows are. We signed the agreement that night. It was a huge relief to get that out of the way. I still have to set up an appointment for our engagement picture and to discuss with Martin our schedule for the actual wedding day but I still have time for that.

Vicky- Wow- you really know what you want. I had no idea. You are so ahead of the game. I know you two were going through classes at the church. How is that going?

Ashley- Brad was raised Baptist, his family goes to Calvary Road Baptist Church in Alexandria and I have been raised Catholic, since we moved to Virginia 22 years ago, my family has attended St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Triangle. In order to be married at St. Francis we have had to meet certain pre-marriage criteria. Poor Brad didn’t know he would be spending so much time at the church when he proposed.

First we had to meet with the priest who will be marrying us (Father Bob Menard) for just a general meet and greet. Then we had to make another appointment to 1) take a test (they call it a communication tool but it feels like a test) and 2) individually meet with Father Bob. Then we signed up for and attended our Engagement Encounter day at the church. We had the option of taking the day course or the weekend course we opted for the day course. It wasn’t too bad and we met some nice people. We got some good information that day but we had already figured out/work out between us some of the other information they presented. We still have to meet with Father Bob to go over our communication tool results and at 6 months before the wedding we have to finish up the whole process. Brad has to provide a copy of his Baptismal Certificate and I have to provide a copy of my Baptismal, First Communion and Confirmation Certificates. We also have to turn in our “freedom to marry papers” (our parents have to sign the papers saying we are eligible to marry each other) and to go over the actual ceremony. We were given a book of readings to choose from and various options for how we want the ceremony will go. We have all but 1 reading chosen and then we have to meet with the music director to pick the music for the wedding. I guess it helps that I sing with the choir so I am more familiar with the various music, musicians and singers.

Unfortunately, if we did not complete the steps we could not be married in the Church. I feel bad that Brad has to go through all these steps, but I really appreciate that he understands how important it is to me to be married in the Catholic Church and more specifically my church. He doesn’t really attend his church very much and I go pretty much every week so when I asked him if we could be married at St. Francis he didn’t even have a problem with it. He thinks that St. Francis is a beautiful church so he’s willing to go through it for me. How sweet. He does joke around and say “they will probably make me eat a live chicken” to which I say “not on your first visit!” (From the movie Steel Magnolias).

Vicky- I remember seeing someone on 'Engaged and Underage' taking that test. I think that doing something like that is actually really smart. Going to some sort of class or communications session affiliated with a church or not is just good planning for your future. It helps to know where you are compatible and were you aren't. It has helped our marriage to know those points for sure.

What else is going on?

Ashley- Our next big step is to find a DJ. I’m also on the hunt for shoes. I can’t believe how hard it is to find ivory shoes! And for bridesmaid dresses. I looked that the ones mentioned on the Target website by Isaac Mizrahi, some are really cute and very affordable. Soon after that we need to start looking at the cake. Yea cake! and flowers.

Vicky- Ok, well be nice to me on that dress issue. I don't do gray or purple. Unless it's deep plummy one. Kidding. I can't wait to find out more in the coming months. Stay tuned and thanks Ashley!

Featured Bride Ashley Dishes About Her Reception

April 5th marked one year to go before their wedding for Ashley and Brad. Ashley emailed me to say, "Wow! It is so exciting. I’m told it will go by so quickly, we shall see!" She also informed me that they have found a reception site. Quite possibly one of the hardest and most important parts of wedding planning. Go Ashley!

Vicky: You have found a place! That is great news! Tell us about it.

Ashley: The reception site is located at the Old Hickory Golf Club. In many ways it is your typical club. It is a beautiful site, very deceiving I found. The rooms for the reception are very open and airy. The bar area is surrounded with deep rich wood with several “Trophy” animals on the wall, very "manly”. The actual reception room is bright and elegant. The doors between the reception area and the bar are supposed to be kept open that day due to the possible number of guests so it will make the room feel bigger. The area opens out onto a veranda so there are large windows to help the sun come in and brighten the room. I think it is funny that the ladies rest room is upstairs and the gentlemen’s restroom is downstairs.

V: It sounds beautiful! I can't wait to see it. (I'm a bridesmaid!) What really made you choose this particular place over the others you viewed?

A: I could say location, location, location, but that wouldn’t be entirely true. Sure the fact that it is located still within a reasonable location (only about a 20-30 minute drive through town from the church) is a big plus, but the food that we sampled at their bridal open house last month, and the fact they could accommodate our possible numbers, the options they gave us, and how nice they were was a huge factor.

We had looked at a few other places, and only one was close, but it would require people to travel on a Saturday afternoon on I-95 or route 1, all the way up to Springfield (roughly 20 miles away) which is a nightmare just waiting to happen (if you have travels in the DC area on a Saturday you know what I’m talking about).

V: Good point! That area is a total mess on Saturdays now. I loathe it. Now that you have the place and the specific room do you have any ideas on decorating? Themes? Colors we know a bit about already. Share!


A: The reception is going to be elegant, but still fun. I was originally thinking of saving money by doing a buffet dinner, but my dad made the command decision that we were having a sit down dinner. I’m so excited about that! The menu is still TBD but we have narrowed it down to a few appetizers; scallops wrapped in bacon, 5 spice Asian beef skewers, and a stationary veggie display and the guests will get to choose from the Salmon, that is already been chosen, or a Chicken, still have to choose that one. Sides will most likely be mixed vegetables and the garlic mashed potatoes. Yum! Of course they serve bread and such with the meal. We are having light open bar for 4 hours and coffee and I’m assuming tea will be served towards the end of the night after the bar is closed. It looks like we will be having a few kids come so there is a special menu for them of grand and glorious chicken fingers. Then of course CAKE! Um, cake!

V: Wow! You really are nailing things down fast. That's great to hear! The menu was such a hard issue for me during my wedding. I must have looked over the choices for weeks, driving everyone around me mad in the process. Anything else you wish to share about the reception at this point?


A: We are looking at renting some table cloths in a deep blue color so that white of the plates and silver of the silverware really stand out. I plan to use flowers to decorate the tables, but I haven’t figured that out yet. I’m so picky about floral arrangements that I’m sure the florist is going to think I’m a pain. The tables are rounds and can hold 8-10 people. I would like a centerpiece that sits high enough that it makes a statement but also allows for the guests to talk to each other and not have to dodge the centerpiece. I’m thinking a mixture of blue and white flowers with silver accents. Mom wants candles, but we shall see. I don’t want just cheesy votives. If I do candles they will be elegant.

We are still working on a DJ, but I’m hoping the DJ will be able to read the crowd and can match the music to the crowd, which in turn will keep everyone happy and dancing. I love to dance so I plan on doing a lot of dancing. I already plan to wear braces under my dress for the reception so I can dance and my knees don’t give out too early.

V: You have thought so far ahead. It's great! I think you'll find little worry about once the event draws closer. It all sounds really lovely. What does Brad, your fiance, think of the place?


A: Its funny. Brad actually was really pulling for this place. We stopped by one day just to take a peek and we took a mini-tour. When we left there, he kept saying we needed to have our reception there. He is even happier because he gets a few rounds of golf for free.

V: Too funny! The golf course there really is quite nice. So after all this chatting how are you feeling with exactly one year to go until the big day?


A: At one year out I’m excited, but not overwhelmed. We still have lots of time left so I’m taking time to accomplish my tasks. The Photographer and DJ are the next big things to look into, so that should be interesting.

V: Thanks for sharing Ashley! We'll check in with you again soon!

Have questions for Ashley or Stephanie are other featured bride? Email us at Flamingtulle at gmail dot com.

Featured Bride Ashley's Further Wedding Adventures

Today we have more exciting news from one of our featured brides, Ashley. Last week she went on a little excursion with her sister, Heather, also the MOH, and her Mom. The search for the dress had begun. Here's what happened.

Vicky: So you went to David's Bridal to have a look around. How was the experience overall?

Ashley: The experience was just that, an experience! I would have liked to had more time to try on dresses but I’m a big believer that things happen for a reason.

The David’s customer service was ok. They were nice when we came in and had me fill out paperwork. Then I was told to go ahead and start looking around. I found about 10-12 dresses to try on. The lady who helped us came over and just started talking. She told me I was short on time for shopping for my dress, which to me was wrong, I’ve got over a year before the wedding. That’s plenty of time to find a dress and have alterations done. I was slightly annoyed when she went off to get a strapless bra for me to try on the dresses with (I was perfectly fine trying them on with my regular old bra) and then she wanted me to pick shoes out and everything. I just said whatever and started trying dresses on. She was helping another customer at the same time as I was and was hoping back and forth between us. This doesn’t bother me much because I’ll just start trying things on and zipping and such. Good thing I had helpers. I wouldn’t say the service was bad but it wasn’t the best. I could do a better job if I was the consultant. I would have been completely into the bride and asking her what did she want.

V: I had a similar experience there. I have to say though, trying on the right bra can really make a big difference. It's all overwhelming isn't it?

A: I was a bit overwhelmed and didn’t really know how to feel. I’m always a bit negative when trying on clothes because I don’t’ have a great figure. I pick at my figure flaws in everything I wear. That’s why when it something important I take my mom or sister (which I had both times). They won’t stear me wrong.

V: We ALL feel that way about ourselves! There's always something. Somehow though with a wedding dress we all end up feeling magical. At least that is what I think and have noticed. So did you find a dress? Tell, tell! Describe the whole thing!

A: I did find a dress! It is strapless (me in strapless – who would have thunk it – now gotta work on those arms). It is ivory with some cream accents. I guess it is considered princess style because of the shape. It has details and crystals and accents all over the top section, but not too much, with a basic bottom until you get to the very bottom where there is the same pattern as the top all on the bottom rim, even around to the train, which is a very nice length, not too long or short.

It was so weird. I tried on this one dress that was cool, but I felt like the “girls” were really too much out there, ok way too much out there. Then I tried on this dress with red and white. Too much WHITE and it was nice but nothing too fab. The next dress was one that I’ve been dying to see and try on and when I did try it on I was disappointed. The train and back was great but the rest was just too busy and didn’t feel right plus it scratched my arms. I had another dress to try on but wasn’t feeling it and the woman said to try 4 on this time and then more the next. I told Heather to take that one dress back and to pick that one she picked out for me to try. She came back with 2 and I picked the one I bought. I tried it on – it’s a size bigger than I wear but it fit reasonably well. I will only have to have small alterations done with some fixing of missing beads (in the back of the dress so its not a biggie) and when I walked out in it I felt regal. My mom gasped, very loudly, and almost started crying. Nancy (Ashley's friend and bridesmaid) was there too. She almost started to cry and Heather, my sister, was just beaming.

It was really weird. Mom said “well how do you feel” I said I liked it the best but didn’t know how I was supposed to feel. Mom was looking for it in the catalog and the lady said the dress is discontinued. When she said that my heart sunk. I was like “WHAT!!!! NO, I have to be able to see this dress again” (Well internally) and then I swayed and such in it – sucked in and imagined it with all the alterations. Mom said close your eyes and is this the dress. I said I don’t know but it could be. I’ve never seen my actual dress in my mind but this is the best from all tonight and I can’t stand the idea of never seeing this dress. I would be heart broken if this was the dress and I walked away and never saw it again. The store wouldn’t hold it for me. Mom grabbed an “accessory” which I tried and it was perfect. I could totally see myself in pictures with this dress. I wasn’t self-conscious about the arms or the body. I tried on 2 more dresses and nothing – I kept comparing them to this dress. I tried the dress on again and it fit and I wasn’t about to let the dress go. It was originally $600, but since it was discontinued and we were buying it that night it was $400 with the accessory. That part is a secret. The grand total, plus I had a $50 off coupon, was $460.

V: Wow! That is incredible! I don't even want to talk about what I spent. I think it is wonderful that you found your dress and your secret accessory for such a great price. It just goes to show that you don't have to go all boutiquey/couture to find what you love. Thanks again Ashley for letting us in on your planning. We love hearing it! Stay tuned for more with Ashley in the coming weeks!


*Note: David's Bridal will book an appointment for you to view and try on dresses or you can simply walk in. They also have a wide array of nicely priced shoes and bridal party wear.

Meet One of Our Featured Brides- Ashley!

Flaming Tulle has picked two brides to feature on our site. Congratulations Ashley and resident Flaming Tulle writer, Stephanie for landing the two spots! We'll be following both these brides on their wedding planning adventure. Hear about their tales navigating through reception halls, traverse high and low for their dress, and taste copious amounts of canapes.

Meet Ashley, pictured here with her fiance Brad.



Vicky: So Ashley when's the big day? When did Brad propose?
Ashley: The wedding is April 5, 2008. Brad proposed on New Years Day 2007. He said when he proposed that he wanted to start the year off right.

V: Have you figured anything out like a color scheme yet?
A: Yes, the color scheme is deep blue (midnight or deep navy) and silver with slight accents of pearl. Brad was so excited when I told him, he said “Cowboy colors” (his favorite football team) – didn’t even dawn on me when I chose those colors. Now he says all his guy friends will think I’m the best for picking his team colors. HONEST I didn’t pick his team colors!

V: That's brave of you to admit that. Have you found a wedding site or a dress yet? It's a ways away I know.
A: Well, I have the date and the church all set, some of the church requirements. I’m Catholic and you have to do certain things by a certain time to be married in the Catholic Church. My parents and I are looking at reception sites. I have found one I really like, but still need to look at about four more before we make the decision.

I have an appointment on the 27th of this month at David’s Bridal for my first look-see of dresses. We have begun thinking up the guest list and we have our wedding party picked out. When looking at dresses for me, I’m taking my sister Heather (Matron of Honor) to go dress shopping for bridesmaids dresses also.

I have my tiara and my unity candle, but not the pillars yet. I have lots of ideas in my mind but my big focus right now is the reception site and starting to think about a dress and the dreaded gym to lose more weight.

V: It looks like you are off to a good start though. Tell me, how did you and Brad meet? How long have you been together?
A: We have been dating for just over three years now.

We met at a bar! That’s only half-true, a mutual friend of ours was getting married and he and his fiancé decided to skip the typical Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties and just have a combined gathering at Clyde’s in Reston, for food and drinks. I was sitting at the bar listening talking with the soon to be groom and he turned to talk with a coworker, well more like gossip. Well since I’m such a smarty-pants, I started making comments like “No she didn’t!”, “Well what did he do after that?” “Can you believe that he said that?” and next think I know this guy sitting across from me starts playing along. Next, thing I know we are just talking and low and behold, it was Brad. Believe it or not, he almost didn’t go to that party and I was ready to leave long before I even met him. We spent a while talking and he walked myself, sister and brother-in-law (who was a groomsman and who was slightly intoxicated) to our car (and made sure my brother-in-law got back into the restaurant in one piece) and we went our separate ways. We met again at the wedding and talked a little bit more that night. I called him after getting his phone number. That was about two weeks later I think and he called me back two days later and we talked for hours and had our first date about two weeks after that.

V: Thanks Ashley! We'll be hearing more about how her dress search went shortly. Stay tuned for more from this featured bride!