THE DRESS

I posted some of my daughter's (Staci) engagement photos last week and have been meaning to post more on preparations for the shower, reception and wedding.  This all took place in summer of 2014.  

Naturally, one of the biggest concerns is THE DRESS.  One that matches the personality of the bride, is within budget and is what she has dreamed of.  This can be a time-consuming adventure, albeit a fun, memory-making one.  Living in a rural area, looking online for ideas and dress styles is key.  Of course, we didn't really want to order a dress online but it was a starting point.

We went to Boise for a concert last June (it was great!  American Authors, The Script, and OneRepublic in one great evening) and we did check out a couple of franchise bridal shops.  They had so many of the same dresses and none that stood out to my daughter or matched the style she had in mind.  At least we had  plans to go to a concert so not a waste.

A few weeks later we traveled to Salt Lake City, Utah (my girls had tickets to a Panic at the Disco concert--I went shopping) and Staci had made an appointment to try on wedding dresses at Fairy Godmother's Bridal.  I am not kidding, the second dress she tried on and she KNEW it was the one.  Her sister Ali and I agreed--she looked beautiful!  See for yourself:

The dress was a great price as well! If in the Utah area and looking for lovely, quality dresses and a staff who is extremely helpful and professional, check out  http://www.fairygodmothersbridal.com/

These beautiful photos were taken by a good friend and local photographer, Jerry, at Third Eye Photography in Winnemucca.  He took the time to speak with Staci about her wishes for her reception and the photos and  memories she wanted to cherish for the rest of her life.  Jerry also suggested that Staci have a bridal session prior to the wedding (hers were done about a month in advance of the wedding).  Some lovely photos were taken and it was a fun experience.

Of course, Ali is Staci's younger sister, maid of honor and bestie, so Staci wanted Ali to be a part of the session.

If you can't be fun and silly, what's the point?

We were very pleased that we had THE DRESS and had our photographer for the reception chosen.  Pleased that he had suggested a bridal session beforehand--we have a 16"x24" of the first photo hanging in our home.

Anyone planning a wedding knows this but it is essential that the bride-to-be feels good with her choice of dress and photographer.  The day of her dreams is not a time to be second-guessing the dress or working with someone who is not willing to listen to your plans.  While we were working within a budget and planning on making the centerpieces ourselves, decorating, etc., we wanted this to be a special time for Staci, Jon and the family.  Staci has five older brothers and her dad--they all just did as told:).

More photos and posts to come related to the wedding.  Thanks for stopping by!