Joel & I are probably two of the biggest book nerds you can find. We usually have 2 or 3 books in progress and another on iPod to play in the car or while running. I use to get in trouble as a kid for always having my nose stuck in a book rather than cleaning myroom, getting ready for school, doing the dishes.... you name it, I can remember absolutely loving the smell of the library as a child... and still do. So we decided to use an an adventure theme (incorporating books and some movie clips in a video) for our wedding. Most of the theme elements will be seen at the reception.
For our favors we are using books... classics mostly, from all age groups. I love to conquer the bid on ebay so that was my first stop in shopping. We are able to get a total of 150 hardbook books (in great condition, some new) from several ebay sellers for about $120... less than $1 each, ladies!
Since our colors are red, black, and ivory, we are going to wrap the books in newspaper with red satin ribbons. To complete the look, I am creating library cards/pockets... you do remember those cards that the librarian use to date stamp, right? Here's a sample of what I've done so far:

Photo credit: me
What do you think? Got suggestions for improvement?
So, I'm a hypocrite. :-) I've read bride blogs for several months now... and always roll my eyes when ladies get so excited over receiving their first wedding gift. It just seems like the whole wedding thing can become so materialistic. To this point, I've felt a little awkward about the whole registry thing. Don't worry, we're doing registries, but (1) we both have a full house of appliances, towels, and sheets, and (2) it's just not my norm to sit and make a list of things I want for 200 of my closest family and friends. Only my parents ever see a list of wants... and that's only after weeks of begging for a Christmas list. LOL So when it comes to wedding gifts, I really didn't think I would have the emotional reaction that I've read from others.
So, ladies, I ask your forgiveness! I will no longer roll my eyes. This morning a friend stopped by Joel's house and left our first wedding gift. When Joel told me, I jumped up and down, felt my heart pump faster, the adrenalin seemed to kick in, and I think a tear even came to my eye. (Ridiculous, eh?)
Now, we haven't even had time to open the gift yet. I don't even know what is in that gift bag.... and I never get this excited about birthday or Christmas gifts. So what's all this about? My guess: I think that first gift somehow brings a reality that all of this planning and work is truly leading to a grand celebration of joining our lives together. Someone has just said, "yes! you ARE getting married and I am excited to part of it!" It's not some elusive day that I've dreamed of since I was a kid. No, it's real! It's coming! And it WILL be amazing!
So, I'll be careful at rolling my eyes and look forward to experiencing every unique moment of this adventure.
Joel & I have been taking dance lessons on & off for over a year now. I have yet to find the shoes that can withstand more than 2 hours of dance. I did discover that actual ballroom dancing shoes do have much more cushion than the typical pumps.
So, I was doing my usual midnight shopping this weekend and found these lovelies. They have a 2.5" inch heel which I'm hoping will be low enough to still be comfortable.

Also, I've always wanted to wear red shoes for my wedding, and I think these fit the bill (and will match my awesome dress - Maggie Sottero Cambria) wonderfully.
Photo Credit: Very Fine Shoes
Hi y'all! I've been lurking on Get Married blogs for a while now. I decided it is rude of me not to at least introduce myself.
My name is Rhonda and after dating for 1.5 years, Joel asked me to marry him this past July. We are getting married on April 17... along with some of you other beautiful brides. :-)
When I'm not browsing the web for wedding goodies, I am work as a professional counselor and trying to finish up doctoral dissertation. To help deal with all the stress, I'm focusing on running again and have signed up for the Virginia Beach Shamrock 1/2 marathon & 8k the month before the wedding. You're welcome to join my team named: "Rhonda's last stop B4 the I Do". <grin>
Thank you all for sharing your great ideas. I'll try my best to contribute some goodies as well.

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My name is Rhonda and after dating for 1.5 years, Joel asked me to marry him this past July. We are getting married on April 17... along with some of you other beautiful brides. :-)
When I'm not browsing the web for wedding goodies, I am work as a professional counselor and trying to finish up doctoral dissertation. To help deal with all the stress, I'm focusing on running again and have signed up for the Virginia Beach Shamrock 1/2 marathon & 8k the month before the wedding. You're welcome to join my team named: "Rhonda's last stop B4 the I Do".

