So... I am here to talk about when the best-laid-plans become un-laid, unfinished, and un-done.

Ya know, you think it's going to go like clock-work... proposal 12.24.09... photo of ring posted 12.27.09... plans formulated and dream-location found 2.26.10. Save the Date cards created 4.5.10.

Then, you get bombshell #1...

Our dream location is about 4,000 dollars over budget. Bombshell #2... family feels it is too far to travel to said dream location. Bombshell #3... we have yet another battle to save the children.

Now, mind-you, I can modify my vision of our

perfect wedding to be hosted at some other dream location... not a problem. But, I cannot shake the feeling that sometimes family does not put your best interest at heart. And, dammit, that hurts! So I hear all kinds of advice from friends... "Go somewhere on some island and get married", "Don't invite 'them' if that's how they feel, have the wedding without them", and my most horrifying suggestion "Get married at the courthouse". Needless to say, we are not doing any of that... yet.

We, instead, have decided to wait. So, that's what we are doing. Waiting.

But here's my question... when and how do you pick up again, muster some enthusiasm, and begin that planning process all in the shadow of bad feelings, bad timing, and still, so few funds to make it all happen the way you first envisioned.

I plan to give that some thought and will have to get back to you. Meanwhile, I'm taking thoughts on the subject! Anyone? Anyone?

PURE INSPIRATION!

The ultimate DIY... making your own flowers. I LOVE it! These come from an artist out of Florida, Becca-Mari, http://www.beccamariweddings.com/ and were featured on Off-Beat Bride, http://www.offbeatbride.com/ my absolute favorite go-to for wedding inspiration. These people rock! I only hope that I can live up to what I've seen on the pages of this site. So many talented people out there. Now to harness the talent that I know lies within!

So, it's ON!
We're puttin' it out there, digging our heels into the sand and dipping our toes in the water. Annnnd, as my newly wedded sister just told me, with only 5 months to go... gotta get to some plannin'.

You see, we are of the 'non-traditionalist' mindset who believes that a wedding is about celebrating the joining of two beings and two families. Sharing our feelings for each other in front of those whom we care for and who care for us... a truly intimate exchange.

That being said, we will not have the church wedding, the white dress, the black rental tux, the family minister, the "giving away", or (hopefully for my sake) that whole garter thing. We WILL want those with us to feel like they are on vacation or at a fabulous party. And those who are not with us to know that we will be thinking of you on that day and thankful to have you in our lives even though not at that specific moment. Sharing happens in the energy of space and time, and in the hearts of those we love!

I'll start at the beginning...

I come from a long line of do-it-yourselfers. My maternal grandfather, indeed, did it HIMSELF! And his way was the ONLY way. He was a smart and talented man, his way usually turned out to be the right way!

My mom inherited that gene and frequently takes it to the extreme. In this photo you see mom wearing a stunning wedding dress that she crafted herself. Down to every detail, mom accomplished something that we, nowadays, would drop-jaw to imagine doing. I would certainly never be so foolish to think I could manage such a feat.

And while that was 40 years ago, a sprightly young thang she was, it hasn't stopped since. To this day, she manages to make her own shower curtains, refinish her own kitchen cabinets, manipulate faux finishes, and handcraft yet another dress, this time, for my baby sister's wedding. I never cease to be amazed by her talent and skill!

Love you mom, hope to follow in your footsteps as well!