Beginning of the end?

 Hello, 

On the start of a new week, we are about a third of the way through our current new lockdown 2.0 in the UK. Last week I wrote about the fabulous news that the huge pharmaceutical company Pfizer have produced a new coronavirus vaccine that is 90% effective (or at least as far as the early data suggests). And the good news continued as late last week I discovered a post on one of the wedding groups I am apart of with an open letter from the co-founder of BrideBook.com, a bridal organisation website helping with everything from guest lists to budgets. 

In another article on the helpful website, it goes into detail that there will be some significant effects on weddings to come into 2021. With 64% of 2020 weddings expected to be pushed-back, 2021 is set to be a busy one. Couples who have yet to find their suppliers or venues yet (I mean WTF are you doing with all your lockdown free time?!) will have to make quick decisions on dates to get first dibs on the date they want and guests can expect more clashes as midweek weddings make more of a comeback due to the limited dates left. On the bright side, the website expects post-coronavirus weddings will be bigger, bolder, and even more full of meaning. Everyone, including Mr Warehouse and I, are longing for the days of confetti, cake, and bubbly, and BrideBook.com have the scoop on the trends you can expect to see post-lockdown.

So what will be the Post-Quarantine Wedding Trends - and will I partake in any myself? I think everyone can agree that the one thing that has come from COVID ruining my fucking life is the normalisation of online meeting services, such as zoom in order to socialise and work from home. Travel restrictions may persist for some time, and with BrideBook.com expecting two-thirds of weddings post-lockdown to have at least some guests attending virtually, for us this is something I may reluctantly have to look into. With my Mrs Tweedle-Dumb located in sunny L.A and other friends and family, some of them elderly or with underlying health conditions scattered across the country, it may be the only option they can be included in the wedding at all without having to postpone a second time. 

Like most people who have worked from home the majority of the year, months of wearing the same pair of leggings and jumpers, I am certain that everyone will be jumping at the chance to dress up and look their best. BrideBook.com are expecting more adventurous guest fashion, with brighter, more fashion-forward dresses and bolder jewellery choices. And it won't just be guests making bold statements; the popularity of statement embroidered veils, feathers and even lights sewn into dresses are certainly something I have been sent on a few occasions from excited work colleagues and friends suggesting something unique for my special day. The article continues that trends to expect may see many more brides opting for more luxe looks including catwalk-inspired statement sleeves and pearl-embellished dresses as seen at the likes of Dior and Chanel. However since I have already purchased my dress, this is not something I can see myself adding, however, you know the old saying - Never Say Never!

With more time than ever to think about wedding details, BrideBook.com expect a move away from some more traditional elements to more creative and modern takes on decor. Floral hoops have also been growing in popularity, something I personally have thought about since I have an abundance of time and faux flowers, I am just a roll of Gaffa tape and a hula hoop away from the Pinterest goal. Post quarantine, I am expecting myself that there will be a revival of the Do-it-yourself Bride and Groom as couples cut costs where they can (and have more time on their hands!). 

Food is one of the most important items at any wedding, at least for me anyway and the pandemic has only heightened issues surrounding sustainability and the environment so it is no wonder that there has been a shift to a focus on menu seasonality, as well as plastic and waste reduction. This is something, whilst not being eco-warriors, was at the forefront of our mind when Mr Warehouse and I come to thinking about our own wedding breakfast as we wanted things to be from as local as we could get - The local meat, veg and suppliers all from within a thirty-mile radius. Moreso than anything to keep the cost down, it's always nice to have a bragging right that the pig your eating was wandering around in a field in the next village just last week. 

The BrideBook.com article continues that after the storm of COVID, when weddings begin again, they are set to go on till the early hours. This is something we are mindful of however as our venue (luckily) is restrictive on the noise and partying as it is in a residential area surrounded by houses and so the cut off will be a hard line. However, hopefully, all that learning Tiktok dances will help the dancefloor to move better and everyone will be eager to show off their new fancy footwork. 

For us, the gift registry was never really a thing as we had most things the traditional lists would force you into adding. Like many couples, we have been questioning what gifts we can live without. For Mr Warehouse and I, we have everything we need. Silver cutlery and crystal bowls are a nice memento, but I remember my parents never using them or only when special guests come over for dinner and so they sit in a draw, redundant for years. A costly present that is rarely used. Not something I would want to bestow anyone for their future. And so, like lots of couples, experiences, starter funds for a new home, a pet or funding a honeymoon will be higher on the agenda, not things. 

Despite me writing this whole god damned piece, the Facebook page still hasn't loaded for me to share with you the good news and wisdom from the original article which goes into detail about what the new Pfizer vaccine means and how this will affect weddings in the next year or so. In no uncertain terms, wedding before the end of March 2021 will see little changes and moving through the spring into April and May the vaccine will allow for the reopening of bigger venues in order to host what is being described as hosting weddings of "substantial numbers" (although what that means in terms of our personal circumstances is another matter). By June and July 2021, as summer peaks its head around, events such as theatre performances, gigs and music concerts and sports are set to return to pre-covid normality. I hate to get too optimistic, but maybe this is the beginning of the end?!

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx

This. Sucks. Ass.

Hello everyone, 

Waking up that morning, sunlight just peeking through the blinds I was not looking forward to the day. There was so much to take in and so many new things and experiences it was all a bit much. Dressing in something more presentable than leggings and donning a bra for the first time in like six months, I was as prepared as I was ever going to be. Packing up my lunch, Slimming World books for the after-work entertainment and swimming costume for the Aquafit class after that I was nervous for all that Tuesday had to bring. 

Arriving at the office, feeling like my Mom had dropped me off for my first day of school and hearing Mr Warehouse pull away in the car I knew this was it, but walking through the gates I met a couple of friendly faces and slowly my fear and anxiety started to melt away. It took most of the day though and it felt ever so clunky being back at a desk I haven't been crafting and sticking stuff to. Struggling through my first week being half-and-half-back in the office and at home has been a struggle, but I have enjoyed seeing peoples faces again and missed the human interaction one normal has in an office environment.  

But regardless of the safety measures and socially distanced desks, the virus is still haunting my life and figures from the BBC released today (Monday 14 September 2020) confirm that the number of new cases of coronavirus is continuing to rise fears over a second spike are real. Whilst the figures do not suggest an upward turn for the pandemic, the figures are certainly damning when you look at where we are now and base it on the last six-months, figures for new COVID-19 cases are about the same levels as they were in late-March/early April this year. With coronavirus related deaths in the last 24-hour period were only recorded at just nine, a huge improvement to where we have been as a nation,  Boris Johnson announced that from today the Government’s advice would be changing and that "There are three simple actions we must all do to keep on protecting each other" - Wash hands, wear a mask and keep 2-metres apart. Hands. Face. Space. 

The rules around socialising and meeting up with friends and loved ones have also changed. Now, when seeing friends and family you must not meet in a group of more than 6, indoors or outdoors. This is something which is now against the law and the police will have the powers to enforce these legal limits which could include issuing fines of £100, doubling for further breaches and flouting of rules up to a maximum of £3,200. However, there are exceptions to this where groups can be larger than 6 people including for work, childcare, education, wedding and civil partnership ceremonies and receptions (not that it will benefit us as still up to 30 people including the bridal party) and public place funerals. So it seems for now at least, Mr. Warehouse can breathe easy as I cannot plan any sort of party or social gathering without facing the prospect of a fine. Halloween? Cancelled. My birthday? Semi-Cancelled.  Christmas Dinner? Who fucking knows at this rate but Christmas parties and New Years Eve celebrations are all up for the chop. 

This sucks. All of it sucks ass. So much fucking ass. I hate it. I hate what it has done to my plans and preparations and has put a massive fucking dampener on life and all future bloody plans. I thought, with less than 3-weeks before my planned wedding day I would at least have something to look forward to. A beach holiday somewhere hot where I can complain about the sand in-between my toes and indulge on one too many cocktails made by Alejandro the barman as I look at the clock and wonder where me and my groom and my wedding dress would be doing. 

But no. It looks as though Corona has fucked that one for me too as quarantine rules change so fast now, Mr Warehouse is worried about having to be off work if the rules change whilst we are away. Rules stipulate at the moment that "You will need to self-isolate if you visited or made a transit stop in a country or territory that is not on the travel corridor list in the 14 days before you arrive in England" says Gov.uk. So I suppose I can kiss goodbye to dreamy Greek islands or lush Italian breaks. I'm not going anywhere!

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx

Living in Regret

Heyy, 

Last week I spoke about the regret of not ever living in London and the city and the life that I could have imagined living if it weren't for different other life events that lead me on the path I am today. And yet again I sit here in regret. 

Back in the Autumn of 2018, my Mr Warehouse proposed. I remember it so clearly, walking on ahead with my little winner following a fun dog show which our (now) eldest pooch (the only one at the time) won for coming first as "The dog that the judges would most like to take home". So in my own world was I, I didn't notice as Mr Warehouse came up alongside me and almost in slow motion, my boyfriend of nearly four-years knelt down on one knee and pulled out a grey box from his pocket. As if it was yesterday I recall how I felt as my mind adjusted to what my eyes were seeing, he opened the box only to reveal a beautiful White Gold Diamond ring. A part of me had not quite realised that this was it and instead was just thinking how nice it was that he had bought me a nice gift. Then I think everything caught up with me and as my gorgeously handsome, cute bottomed Mr Warehouse asked: "Will You Marry Me?" 

After choosing the wrong size I had to re-pick my ring, mainly as they could only size up and down 2 levels and I needed more than that. I selected the beautiful Revere 9-carat White Gold Cubic Zirconia Oval Halo Ring, classic and elegant. After whizzing over to Stevenage to collect it in my size, I was overjoyed and couldn't stop staring at my hand for months. But soon enough the whirlwind had worn off and I found a new shiny thing to think about. 

Back in the Summer of last year, I was sat in a meeting in early June and noticed a small spec of dust on the desk. I swiped it onto the floor, thinking nothing more of it. A little while later I ended up looking down and playing with my engagement ring. However, on closer inspection, I realised a stone was missing. Panicked I realised that the "speck of dust" was actually one of my stones! There I was, on all fours in this bloody sales meeting. I picked up the crystal and wrapped it in a piece of paper, stuffing it into my bra for safekeeping. Calling the store Mr Warehouse (and I) bought it from, I explained what had happened and asked if I could bring it in with a photo of the receipt that I had on my phone to be repaired. They said it would be fine and I brought it in that evening once I had finished. With weeks before we jetted off on our last holiday as an unmarried couple, I was itching to get it back. 

Several weeks later I was days away from mine and Mr Warehouse's holiday and I was even more desperate to get it back to go on holiday with. It would be the first time it had been on holiday and would be the one and only time it would be seen on a beach, fore next time it would be accompanied by my wedding ring! Eeeek! But after calling several times I was told that the ring was not back yet and they would be in touch soon. I did have a contingency plan though. I had ordered a lab-created diamond ring from eBay that looked similar, although disappointingly it had not arrived in time for my holiday only adding to my heartache. However, once it had (eventually) arrived was not quite for me and so I sent it back, awaiting any day for my beloved ring to be back with me. And so, regrettably, I skipped off on holiday without my ring. 

Coming back home from Malaga Mr Warehouse and I waited in the airport, ready to board our flight home, swollen and in pain with blisters and sores. I had a phone call from the store we sent the ring back to get repaired. Unfortunately, it would have happened that when the repairers went to fix the ring, it bowed and warped so much so that whilst they had been able to fix it, the repair was not guaranteed and that if any more stone fell out I would have to go through the whole six-eight week process again. I decided not to accept the repair and instead opted to have the ring returned and have a replacement, thoughts of the new shiny thing I had seen in the shops a few weeks before. 

Truth be told I had fallen in love with a 9ct White Gold Cluster Ring. The claw set cushion design is a real beauty. Handset with DiamonFlash Cubic Zirconia it creates a ring of perfect proportions with lots of sparkle and style. A fabulous accessory for any outfit - Including my wedding dress. Lusting after it for a while I was still waiting to hear about my ring being returned, I couldn't help myself and after calling a local branch in Milton Keynes and being told that my exact size was in and was on sale, I dropped what I was doing (which was decorating our hallway at the time) and headed over. However, on making the half-hour round trip and paying for premium parking, I was more than annoyed to try on the ring and for it to barely get past my knuckle. 

"This is not the correct ring size," I said to the sales assistant. She disagreed saying that of course, it is. 
"I can assure you that this is not my ring size," I said again asking her this time to size it on her ring chart and, sure enough, it was wrong, coming up nearly three sizes too small. Fuming I tried to control myself in a shop busy with people, but explaining politely to the sales girl that I have come in especially for this and what it is simply not really acceptable to just say sorry and make an excuse that someone had labelled it incorrectly, especially when I had called in advance too. Nevertheless, the young girl helped by ordering the ring in, although not before trying to charge me more because I was ordering a "bigger size". I paid in full and left, sitting in my car before I left and typing out an angry tweet. Venting through the interwebs seems to help as I had a response within a few hours and was told that because of my troubles I would have my ring especially shipped in from the manufacturers directly and that I could collect that Friday. 

What happened to the other original engagement ring? Well, whilst I loved it, I love this one. Although I should have listened to the doubt inside my head at the time. Writing in "Rings and Tings" that week I really had to ask myself if this new ring will have all the same significance and special feels as the OG. Several months down the line I can promise you that it does not. Silly old me back then thought "I mean of course it will look a little odd in photos and I will have to explain every time someone asks what happened to my old engagement ring, but this one is soooo sparkly and soooo beautiful it won't be hard for them to see why I fell in love with it." Oh how wrong I was. 

I have since just spent pretty much the entire evening looking for this damned ring. The original of course. I am absolutely gutted though as Argos have stopped selling it, literally as of January 2020! Alas Revere 9-carat White Gold Cubic Zirconia Oval Halo Ring, you were the one and I was hasty to let you go for now I regret my decision and whilst I continue my search online for ex-models or ex-stock items, I can only hope I can find you item 724/8119 ...  

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx

The Cars, The Clothes and The Cameras

Heyy, 

It has been a while now hasn't it? You know since we indulged in all things wedding-y. And so I thought I should update you, at least since the weekend Mr Warehouse and I had was fairly plain in comparison to others that have come before it, what with Krakow and scare mazes and Halloween parties and spa days. 

So throughout the summer, I decided to let wedding planning sit on the back burner, what with holidays to Malaga and a family wedding, I thought best to enjoy summer as next year I will probably be stressed to my eyeballs. That being said however I had made some crucial bookings and purchases, and, with the help of a magical fairy Godmother AKA my Irish Auntie I was able to book in hair and make-up, as well as our dream wedding car - a full-on Cruella De Vil, crossed with a Brum Lookalike! The beautiful Regent Landaulette Tourer will be ours for the day, ferrying us from my home as I leave for the church on my last ever journey as a Miss and onto our wedding Venue through the lush Bedfordshire countryside with my new Husband. The website explains how the gorgeous white car with black roof and ivory leather interior can seat more than just the Bride and Groom with space for Seven bottoms. And the most special part - The rear section of the roof can be taken down to have a semi convertible like royalty have, something I cant wait to see in the photos. Perfect for hopefully the warmer summer weather and yet prepared for a chilly winter wedding, this car has it all. 

Although I was taking a back seat to wedding planning and prep, I still kept my eyes peeled for a bargain and have even been able to find the skeleton to the dress of my wildest thoughts and daydreams. As I sat scrolling through eBay, I noticed that one of my watched items had ended. Checking it, thinking it was most probably a dog costume or something cute for my newest addition to the family, I was surprised to see it was a dress. Intrigued I clicked through and saw a stunning gown for sale, but it had ended already, and with no bids as well. Disappointed to have lost out I messaged the seller, "VampGirl3000" or something odd like that. The lady explained that it was her Daughters and after buying it from a posh and expensive boutique bridal wear shop in a village locally, she had changed her mind and decided to get married abroad and therefore changed her dress. I knew the shop well and they catered for the plus-size lady and after trying on some dresses there with Mrs. Tweedle-Dumb when she was over in the Spring, I knew it was a steal at the already listed £250. Cheekily I asked if she would £150. She said no. But she did say that if I was interested she would take £200. I pushed my luck and said if she would take £175 I could collect that very week. Shockingly she accepted, and, sure as my word I rolled up at just coming up to 6pm, Miss Tweedle-Dee by my side. I was nervous as we waited by the door. 

"What happens if I don't like it? What happens if I all of a sudden want a different style of dress? What happens if ..." I flapped. 
"Shut the fuck up. I have been to several bridal shops with you now and every time you have tried this style of dress on and it suits you and you look beautiful in them. The others either don't suit you or are not wedding-y enough, so quit your whining. Besides, if you change your mind, it's £175, you know you could sell it for double" Miss Tweedle-Dee soothed. Soon the door was opened and we were shown upstairs and allowed some time to try it on. It fit well, and with some minor altering (to take it in and up once I lose all this fat) plus some added and minus extras it will be perfect. Almost running downstairs, my Maid of Honour barely able to catch me up, holding the dress, I squealed to the lady that I loved it and wanted to take it home. And so that day I came home with my beautiful gown, hung it up and showed my puppies. 

The next thing I think on my list that I booked and organized was the DJ and Disco. Certainly the most difficult job of the day I think. Mr Warehouse and I love music and our tastes cover everything from post-world-war bops to current day and cheesey pops with everything in between. Thinking we might be able to help the man out, Mr. Warehouse and I made an evening of listening to the music channels and YouTube Wedding Playlists and selecting our top tunes. But the Top of the Pops it was not as several hours later we had not even tipped the iceberg that was anything by Sean Da Paul or Queen and we were already at four and a half hours worth of music and disco jams. This guy certainly had his work cut out and when he kindly met up with us in a local pub for a drink and a chat he certainly put us both at ease. Awkward at first, like a weird first date we talked about how Mr. Warehouse and I first met, some anecdotes on wedding planning and our lives together and a little bit about his background and type of work he does. I was settled to learn he does this most weekends and knows when to turn up the cheese and when to take it down a notch or two. 

The videographer has been booked and nearly all paid for, something Mr. Warehouse fully detested, although I feel is slightly warming to the idea now. As explained all those many moons ago in my blog "Seeking out our Scorsese", when I first thought about my wedding planning journey, even as far back as college and the heady Mr. Workaholic days I realised that I would want some sort of video footage. I suppose ever since doing Media Production and Media Studies as a student I knew the importance and deep-rooted connection that you can have to a video in accompaniment with sound and vision as opposed to just a still image. The way I see it is that you cannot put a price on your memoirs and 

I wanted something to start not with the preparation of the Bridal party at home but at the church just simply watching as everyone arrives, greeting familiar faces and watching people mingle before becoming forever entwined. This, in my head at least, would transition through to the moments at home as the wedding car arrives and sneak peeks of everyone's reaction to that wonderful gown before the final journeys of the bridal party to the church. Continuing to roll, the camera would capture the moment I see my groom for the first time and that all-important first glimpse, just before we become husband and wife. I am sure though that a good videographer will capture everything from the heartfelt vows through to the giggles in the speeches, flowing nicely the cutting of the cake, our very first dance as a married couple and ending with some candid shots of the Dance floor as people start to let the alcohol take control. 

When I look back on my wedding video in years to come, be it after an argument, with the kids, with the grandkids even or just us, I want to be transported back to that magical day and remember all the little things that happened that I may have missed and that my eyes didn't catch. I want to listen to people give me advice and laugh at everyone's antics. I want to look back and see the faces and movements and words, listening to their voice as I remember that they are maybe no longer with us. In all of that, chances are, no matter how sharp mine or my new Hubbies memory is, we won’t remember every single detail of it off by heart and it is for this additional reasoning, as well as the emotional side why nowadays couples like me (and Mr. Warehouse) are opting to have wedding videography. 

Suffice to say that with less than a year to go (in fact with ten months, four weeks and one day) to go, I am more excited than ever and cannot wait to become Mrs. Warehouse!

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx

Rings and Tings!

Hey, 

Following last weekends hopeful plans of spending our weekend making the "Save The Dates" we needed for our wedding, we have yet to make a start. Instead, we chose to do what all twenty-somethings do when they have responsibilities (well at least most of them) my Fiance and I went drinking.

But first things first and top of my priorities was to go and collect my new engagement ring. Now back at the beginning of June I was sat in a meeting and noticed a small spec of dust on the desk and so swiped it onto the floor, thinking nothing more of it. A little while later I ended up looking down and playing with my engagement ring. However, on closer inspection, I realised a stone was missing. Panicked I realised that the "speck of dust" was actually one of my stones! One all fours in this bloody meeting I picked up the crystal and wrapped it in a piece of paper, stuffing it into my bra for safekeeping. Calling the store Mr Warehouse (and I) bought it from, I explained what had happened and asked if I could bring it in with a photo of the receipt that I had on my phone to be repaired. They said it would be fine and I brought it in that evening once I had finished. Since then I had been ringless and was itching to get it back. 

Several weeks later I was days away from mine and Mr Warehouse's holiday and I was desperate to get it back to go on holiday with. It would be the first time it had been on holiday and would be the one and only time it would be seen on a beach, fore next time it would be accompanied by my wedding ring! Eeeek! But after calling several times I was told that the ring was not back yet and they would be in touch soon. And so I skipped off on holiday without my ring. 

I had ordered a lab-created diamond ring from eBay and it had not arrived in time for my holiday which was disappointing. However, when I say this to people, about the lab-created diamond ring, the number one question I got is “Are lab-created diamonds real diamonds?” but the only thing that makes a lab-created diamond different from a natural diamond is its origin. A lab-created diamond is “grown” inside a lab using cutting-edge technology that replicates the natural diamond growing process. The result is a man-made diamond that is chemically, physically, and optically the same as those grown beneath the Earth’s surface. People sometimes, lab-created diamonds are referred to as synthetic diamonds, and while not technically inaccurate the term “synthetic” may be the reason people believe lab-created diamonds are “fake” and that was something I thought once it had (eventually) arrived was not quite for me. 

However as Mr Warehouse and I waited in the airport, ready to board our flight home, swollen and in pain with blisters and sores, I had a phone call from the store we sent the ring back to get repaired. Unfortunately, it would have happened that when the repairers went to fix the ring, it bowed and warped so much so that whilst they had been able to fix it, the repair was not guaranteed and that if any more stone fell out I would have to go through the whole six-eight week process again. I decided not to accept the repair and instead opted to have the ring returned and have a replacement. 

In the meantime between my trips to the hospital for my sunburn, I had fallen in love with a 9ct White Gold Cluster Ring. The claw set cushion design is a real beauty. Handset with DiamonFlash Cubic Zirconia it creates a ring of perfect proportions with lots of sparkle and style. A fabulous accessory for any outfit - Including my wedding dress (which I have yet to find I might add). 

Lusting after it for a while I was still waiting to hear about my ring being returned, I couldn't help myself and after calling a local branch in Milton Keynes and being told that my exact size was in and was on sale, I dropped what I was doing and headed over. However, on making the half-hour round trip and paying for premium parking, I was more than annoyed to try on the ring and for it to barely get past my knuckle. 

"This is not the correct ring size," I said to the sales assistant. She disagreed saying that of course, it is. 
"I can assure you that this is not my ring size," I said again asking her this time to size it on her ring chart and, sure enough, it was wrong, coming up nearly three sizes too small. Fuming I tried to control myself in a shop busy with people, but explaining politely to the sales girl that I have come in especially for this and what it is simply not really acceptable to just say sorry and make an excuse that someone had labelled it incorrectly, especially when I had called in advance too. Nevertheless, the young girl helped by ordering the ring in, although not before trying to charge me more because I was ordering a "bigger size". I paid in full and left, sitting in my car before I left and typing out an angry tweet. 

Venting through the interwebs seems to help as I had a response within a few hours and was told that because of my troubles I would have my ring especially shipped in from the manufacturers directly and that I could collect on Friday. And that is exactly what I did. What happened to the other original engagement ring? Well, whilst I loved it, I love this one although I did have to ask myself if this new ring will have all the same significance and special feels as the OG. But I put those thoughts on ice whilst I got the lady in store to process a refund. I mean of course it will look a little odd in photos and I will have t explain every time someone asks what happened to my old engagement ring, but this one is soooo sparkly and soooo beautiful it won't be hard for them to see why I fell in love with it. 

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx

Getting Hitched!

Hi everyone, 

Sitting there in the darkened corner of the dancefloor I watched as the bride and groom skitted across the parquet flooring watched by all their family and friends I thought about how that would be me one day. As Mr Warehouse sat beside me I could tell he too was getting emotional as their children joined them in their union to become a family once again and that was it. Hearts stopped! As my fiance and I joined the happy newlyweds on the dance floor surrounded by twinkling lights and disco music we thought about how our day would be. With less than eighteen months ago it was certainly whizzing by in a flash. 

What with Vivienne being a right off and getting a new car, as well as work and social life, planning our special day, was put slightly on the backburner and it had been some weeks since I had checked our emails. Having a little peak in the inbox I realised that we had yet to try and secure our caterer and after a meeting with him at the Stagsden Village Hall where we will have our reception and our wedding breakfast, we have yet to hear back from him. 

Mr Warehouse and I had indulged in wedding planning and had booked the bar, the ceremony and the reception venue. I had researched into the perfect dress and been to try quite a few on too. My fiance had looked into suits and I think we have a colour scheme in mind. The flower-girl has met her dress and demanded her shoes to match ( as it should) and the mother of the groom outfit has already been chosen. 

But there is still so much more left to plan. The wedding planning website "Hitched.co.uk" says that when it comes to wedding planning there’s no right or wrong way to do it. However, there is a simple way to organise your wedding planning tasks that’ll reduce your stress levels and ensure you actually enjoy this exciting time!

One of the websites top tips is to create a budget - And stick to it! Like most couples, we sat down together and had an open discussion about finances and realistically after buying a house and managing debts, how much we could both afford and how to save over the coming years and months. Unlike some newly engaged couples, we are not fortunate enough for our parents or other family members to help pay for the wedding, and I think to be fair I wouldn't want them getting involved financially as it becomes a bit too messy in terms of who is paying for what and when and how much. This is our special day and we will finance this on our own. 

When it comes to wedding inspo, "Hitched.co.uk" has got you covered with their helpful website and suggests making mood boards to gain a theme or style. There are so many sources of inspiration out there which can make everything a bit overwhelming sometimes, so I choose one medium and have stuck with it. You can’t beat Pinterest – it’s a great way to gather ideas and create boards for each aspect of your wedding. The great thing I love about Pinterest is that you can collect all of the table décor, dress, cake, photo ideas all in one place that takes your fancy, and I can share them with friends and family, although Mr Warehouse doesn't love it as much as I do. The social media platform comes into its own when getting closer to the big day as I can ping across ideas and thoughts to suppliers when the time comes for a better understanding of what I want and how I want it!

Another tip from the wedding planning website is that before the hunt for the venue begins, the Bride and Groom should sit down together and talk about what wanted from the wedding venue and this is certainly something we chose to do very early on in our wedding planning process. Nothing else could ah[[en until we found it. And so we searched and searched but nothing was perfect enough. Mr. Warehouse and I knew we needed somewhere fairly sizable as our wedding party would be at least seventy. We ideally wanted some outside space to enjoy the hopefully warm setting sun and space for the kids to exhaust themselves. A bonus would have been a separate area for dinner and dancing but not essential. A bar would have been nice as well as some additional space for a quiet moment whereas parking and accommodation nearby was a must. Luckily we found most of it all in the Stagsden Village Hall. 

Some more helpful advice from "Hitched.co.uk"  was about the wedding party and choosing well. Now I instantly knew who my bridesmaids would be and wanted to ask Mr. Warehouse Neice, the only little girl in both our families if she would like to be my flower girl. However, Mr Warehouse had a bit of a harder time choosing between his brothers as who would be Best Man and so just settled and chose both. My advice would be if you’re not sure then don’t feel rushed into your decision. Think carefully about who will be the best people to support you and your fiance on your special day and in the run-up to it.  You may also want to consider the cost as your bridal party will need outfits, bouquets, buttonholes and thank you gifts, so the more people you have, the more this could impact your budget.  They will be in your photo's on your mantlepiece forever so be sure to make a wise choice. 

There are so many more decisions to make, most of the ones I talked about both Mr. Warehouse and I have already done, and more. Here's hoping that the next few weeks I can get the catering sorted and maybe even onto some more exciting things!

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx 

If you're not the one then why does my soul feel glad?

Hi!

So one week on from being the "The Goldilocks of Dress Shopping" and following the so-called biggest wedding show in the UK - The National Wedding Show, I just cannot stop thinking about that dress! Which one you may ask? Well, after stepping into the final store of the day and with my entourage of Mrs Tweedle-Dumb & Miss Tweedle-Dee for company lagging behind from lack of caffeine, sugar and sleep most likely, I picked out a few dresses that I was happy to try on and headed through to the dressing room. 

Each of them I tried on and each of them I loved more than the last. I realised only after leaving the shop and flicking through the photos that my bridesmaids took of me wearing the gowns was that actually, I had already tried on two of them in a different store next door to the bridal boutique where I won the afternoon tea experience. Now I must say that at this point if I have already tried on the same dress twice then it must say a lot about it and how I feel wearing it. Although the full gather skirt on the Camellia Ball Gown gives the most incredible shape with the beaded lace appliques making for the ultimate princess gown, I had fallen for Tilly, a very similar glamorous take on a classic sweetheart wedding dress with yet more feminine tulle skirt which floated as I walked and once again, finished with irresistible appliqués in the Northampton branch of Wed2B. But whilst were just as beautiful as each other, and mostly fitted well considering my odd sizing, they were not the one dazzling my head when daydreaming. The dress in question was Letitia. The exclusive Platinum Edition waterfall ball gown was the ultimate princess wedding dress. With long creamy folds and layers detailing the skirt and the luxurious bodice, encrusted with beaded embroidery adding the perfect sparkle. 

However despite Mrs Tweedle-Dumb, Miss Tweedle-Dee, the lady who was helping me, and her colleagues all telling me that I looked beautiful and stunning at the time in the shop, I just wasn't feeling it. With each curtain swish to reveal the outfit, I could tell everyone was growing impatient but with the biggest expense so far I was hesitant to say yes to the dress. I suppose just being in receipt of something so expensive I will only wear for a few hours is in itself a little daunting. 

That is why this week I have decided to take up the task of not only trying to secure a caterer but also to have a look online for a wedding dress. My first go to was eBay as I figured that most of the styles I like would be there on the website both used and new. I was right! Hammering down some of my choices in the filters tabs I was looking for something that would resemble a combination of Tilly, Camellia and Letitia. As I have said before, I am not searching for the floods of tears, whoops and holla's that I would expect from a "Say yes to the dress" TV moment, but I do need a dress that is going to tell a story about me and how unique and funny and different I am. I need it to embrace my curves and show off my incredible parts and hide those that I don't like so much. I need something that says "That is so her". I need a dress that says me without me even wearing it. Continuing my search online, I have yet to find the one, but I am optimistic in finding it and maybe I will have a little rest until maybe some family are over in the summer and we can go again. In the meantime, however, I will record more episodes of Say Yes To The Dress UK. 

Confetti & Lace for over three decades has provided a personal and professional service to all brides but the best bit is that the store opens their doors time and time again to the hit TLC television program following brides on a quest to find the perfect gown for their big day. With the help of David Emanuel, the designer of Princess Diana's iconic wedding dress, Gown designer Christine Dando and the attentive staff with all their knowledge and expertise the help to guidance to the show's brides (and their sometimes testing entourage too) gets intense on the journey to find the to the dress of their dreams! Uhh if that doesn't scream Saturday indoors with blankets and PJ's, I don't know what does!

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx 

The Goldilocks of Dress Shopping

Heyy!

Standing in line, I was surprised that the queue was not longer considering this was the biggest wedding show in the UK - The National Wedding Show. With everything a bride and her entourage could every dream of under the beautiful glass-domed roof of Olympia London I was in awe of the venue and looking forward to walking around sampling champagne whilst looking at all the different suppliers and vendors. Amazing wedding dresses, stunning catwalk shows, expert advice and all with free tickets in hand. 

As we entered the lobby area, I was more than ready to elbow out my fellow brides in order to get special show offers, help and advice from over 250 wedding specialists. However on walking through into the Grand Hall and after about an hour or so of walking around as well as watching the first catwalk show I have to say that I was quite disappointed. On my long list of suppliers and vendors to hunt out in order to apply for competitions or sign up for freebies were quite a few that were not present at the London Olympia National Wedding Show. Krispy Kreme doughnut stand was missing and the authentic Italian ice cream man was also lost. 

"Nevermind though I thought", walking back from a cigarette break outside "there are lots of stunning dresses at multiple stands that I am sure I can try on". I suppose part of me was correct - Yes there were lots of stands and yes there were lots of dresses however most if not all of the guns on offer to try on we're all a UK size 14 or under. And by this standard assuming that the rule still applies that for your bridal gown should be at least two if not three dress sizes bigger than what you normally are on the High Street or in normal clothes. This, in turn, would mean that I would have to be a UK size 8 or size 10 in order to try on any of the wedding dresses at what was advertised as the UK's biggest wedding show. Somehow I think not!

The more I think about this fact, both then and now, it infuriates me. People (unlike me on this occasion) pay good money and even take time off of work to travel far and wide to a wedding show where they claim to have the widest variety of suppliers including wedding dresses and bridal wear specialists and yet only choose to supply a few gowns in a few small sizes not catering for anyone else. Here in the UK, our average dress size for a woman is around about a size 16 which would roughly be equated to wearing a wedding dress or bridal gown in a size 20 to 22. Now, why is that not reflected? 

Nevertheless, Mrs Tweedle-Dumb and Miss Tweedle-Dee struggled on with me, sore feet and aching arms from all the books and leaflets we were carrying around. After an hour or two of walking around the same vendors flogging the same old stuff we were all bored and with not much more inspiration to suck from the place we decided to bounce. I would say in the experience of The National Wedding Show was mediocre at best and am pleased that I did not pay for tickets as if I had I think I would have been even more disappointed than I was. Looking back on some of the other wedding shows that I have been to both in my local area and a few miles out, I have always been able to get a lot more out of small local independent's rather than what is classed as the UK's biggest! 

That being said however that this wedding show is perfect for those that have recently got engaged or haven't a clue where to start on their wedding planning journey, but a word of wisdom to my fellow Brides or Brides-to-be out there - Make sure that you do your research and if you are not prepared to pay megabucks then maybe consider a local wedding show or fair before heading to some of the National big boys as I can almost certainly guarantee that you will be able to find exactly what you are looking for by a friendly and local supplier ready and willing to take on your business. They will be just as capable as a supplier at one of the National wedding shows and yet will probably charge a lot less for something it just as special for your big day without a massive Price Tag and will probably care a little more too!

Calling it a day Mrs Tweedle-Dumb, Miss Tweedle-Dee and I decided to head over to the Westfield shopping centre in order to grab some dinner and a spot of shopping before heading home for a sleepover - Just like the good old days! The following morning I anticipated coffee and a light breakfast before heading out with my maid and matron of honour to try on wedding dresses! I was keen to get a few visits booked in especially when I have both of my besties on hand for gentle criticism and polite judgement. 

The first Bridal Boutique we stepped into we were all offered a cup of coffee which was much needed as we had not had any of the light breakfast I had intended due to waking up late. Walking around the store cloaked in wedding dresses and feeling as though I was Mr Tumnus in Narnia, there was not much is anything at all in my size and so I grabbed a couple of dresses just to make it seem as though we have not come for a free coffee. 

The next bridal shop Mrs Tweedle-Dumb and I left Miss Tweedle-Dee in the car for a nap as I was certain that she was suffering from a lack of caffeine and a poor night's sleep on my crumby sofa-bed. This store seemed much more positive as its ethos was to help the plus size lady find her dream dress. But just as the first so had been too small, the second store was way too big catering for up to a UK size 30! I did, however, fall for a few gowns there although there are no pictures as apparently, the designers get very funny about photos being taken something I personally think is a crock of shit. 

Stepping into the final score of the day was my Goldilocks moment and with this in mind, I picked out 4 or 5 dresses that I was happy to try on and headed through to the dressing room. Each of them I tried on and each of them I loved more than the last. However despite Mrs Tweedle-Dumb, Miss Tweedle-Dee, the lady who was helping me, and her colleagues all telling me that I looked beautiful and stunning, I just wasn't feeling it. With each curtain swish to reveal the outfit, I could tell Miss Tweedle-Dee was growing impatient and that she wanted me to buy. The dress in question was Letitia. The exclusive Platinum Edition waterfall ball gown was the ultimate princess wedding dress. With long creamy folds and layers detailing the skirt and the luxurious bodice, encrusted with beaded embroidery adding the perfect sparkle I could see her point. But with the biggest expense so far I was hesitant to say yes to the dress. Mrs Tweedle-Dumb took one look at me however and said exactly what I was thinking, reading my mind like a novel. 
"You are wondering if it is too early to say yes and that if there is something else better out there. I know that you are thinking about this and that it is something you are concerned about. Let me ask you one question though - If you were to be in the same position, standing here this time next year, I know you would not be as hesitant." Mrs Tweedle-Dumb said, softly but stern. And like that, it was an arrow to my heart. Having Mrs Tweedle-Dumb and Miss Tweedle-Dee there knowing that they knew me better than I even knew myself was somewhat scary yet comforting. 

Having Mrs Tweedle-Dumb home the last couple of weeks has been incredible and having her and Miss Tweedle-Dee around more times than I think I could shake a stick at has been wonderful. But alas all good things must come to an end. By the end of this week Mrs Tweedle-Dumb will be back home in sunny L.A. It will certainly be different not to have her around but I am sure it will not be long until we are all reunited and yet in the meantime I am sure that Miss Tweedle-Dee and I will have plenty of fun - Wedding or not!

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx 

No Ruffles or Puffy Sleeves - Be My Bridesmaid Pretty Please!

Afternoon Ya'll!

Within hours of Mrs Tweedle-Dumb's flight landing, she was stood on my doorstep. wrapped up warm in a winter coat and jeans she looks comfy yet tired from her travels, and I don't think that I have ever given her a bigger hug than I did then before welcoming her into my new home which she had yet to see in the flesh. As I gave her the tour of my new abode we giggled and laughed like we always had. 

With Miss Tweddle-Dee by her side, it was as though we had never been apart. On finishing at the house tour we decided to get down to the nitty-gritty of wedding planning and some of the ideas that Mr Warehouse and I had in mind for our big day. Honestly, I suppose that I really thought that the distance would have made our friendship completely different, but sat there on Thursday evening watching telly and cracking jokes I had almost forgotten that we had not actually been altogether since September of last year, more than five months ago. 

As nice as it was having my girls around me once more, there was a reason they were there, something I will not dive too deep into but emotionally has been draining me and sucking me dry for months now. I don't think that I ever said it to them both but I appreciated them being there more than I think they could have ever known. Their help and support has been completely invaluable in the last few years, and especially so in the last twelve months. I know that they will think I am a soppy old wet bag but I honestly don't know where I would have been without them. 

Reading an article the other night in bed, "The Brides Guide to Bridesmaids" I realised that I had some good candidates for the job. Planning your wedding is not easy. Everyone has advice. Everyone has an opinion. I am certain that over the next few months before my big day with Mr Warehouse there will be many an argument or disagreement with friends and family to include everything from the seating plan to who is invited and what is being fed to everyone. I need a strong entourage that will be able to swat out anything (or anyone) that is going to ruin my wedding day and preparations. I think that most of my family know that I am a force to be reckoned with and that any criticism will not be taken well, therefore I do not expect there to be many disagreements, however people do strange things will the run-up to getting hitched. 

As a bride-to-be, wedding chief executive and senior creative officer, I know I will be faced with a barrage of questions, comments and suggestions from everyone, including my bridesmaids. I hope that Miss Tweedle-Dee and Mrs Tweedle-Dumb's help, direction and guidance will make the prep and planning much more effective and waay easier.

In historical references, the bridesmaid and her duties were varied across cultures, religions and time periods. In early Roman times, bridesmaids formed a kind of bridal infantry as they accompanied the bride to the groom's village. This "protective shield" of similarly outfitted bridesmaids was supposed to intervene if any wayward thugs or vengeful suitors tried to hurt the bride or steal her dowry.  In Western society, however, bridesmaid tradition seems to have originated from later in the Roman law in which a wedding required ten witnesses in order to outsmart evil spirits believed to attend marriage ceremonies. The bridal party all dressed in identical clothing to the betrothed so that the evil spirits wouldn't know who was getting married. Even as late as 19th century England, the belief still continued that ill-wishers could administer curses and taint the wedding still existed and can be depicted by Victorian wedding photographs where it can take quite a bit of inspection to pick out the bride and groom from among the other members of the bridal party!

In more modern times though whilst these early customs continue to have an influence today, the bridal party continues to serve a vital role in the wedding process, not by fending off hexes and robbers, but by providing key support staff and an advisory board. 21st Century bridesmaid skills include caring helpers, thoughtful organisers and skillful liaisons. Besides being an honoured member of the wedding party and special guest at the reception, today's bridesmaid is also designated as the bride's assistant. From shopping for dresses to writing place cards, their first duty is to be helpful. The payoff is that walk down the aisle, looking absolutely beautiful in a gown that is stunningly stylish, super sophisticated, and absolutely wearable. 

Some brides in modern society decide to go with every Sarah, Lilly or Beatrix to be a bridesmaid, including everyone on the list from work colleagues to old school friends and that lady who serves you in the Costa drive-thru every Friday morning. Come on ladies it's just too much - Honestly, are you going to look back on those photos on your mantelpiece in years to come and answer your children's questions about who are beside you in your wedding photos. In most circumstances, they will be people that you will probably fall out with or would have not heard from in many years. It also seems to take away from the special-ness of the occasion and the absolute honour it is to be part of the bridal party. I suppose with these details in hand and the fact that Miss Tweedle-Dee and Mrs Tweedle-Dumb are highly skilled in keeping me calm and relaxed (usually by laughing to the point I pee) as well as comforting me in times of emotion and overwhelming-ness that I have asked them to be my bridesmaids. The question is - Will they accept?

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx 

Playing with the big boys

Evening!

So I am sure that you are all very excited to hear the next instalment of my wedding planning journey accompanied with all the trials and tribulations you would expect in planning the biggest day of your life. However following some sad news a few weeks ago regarding one of Mrs Tweedle-Dumb's relatives passing away unexpectedly, my best friend and bridesmaid will be flying home within the next few hours. 

Personally, I was not really close to Mrs Tweedle-Dumb's family member but would have liked to go to the funeral in order to provide some comfort and support her family as they have for me over the last few years. Unfortunately, a combination of meetings that cannot be postponed and lack of annual leave means that I am unable to, however, that does not necessarily mean that I do not feel bad about Mrs Tweedle-Dumb having to return under these circumstances, especially on her own.

Her imminent yet unanticipated visit back to the UK is not only a chance to say goodbye to a much-loved member of her family but also to indulge in some QT with friends to maybe take her mind off other matters, if only for a short while! With this in mind, I have booked ourselves tickets to the biggest wedding show in the UK - The National Wedding Show. With everything a bride and her entourage could every dream of or need to plan the perfect wedding under the beautiful glass-domed roof of Olympia London. Amazing wedding dresses, stunning catwalk shows, expert advice and the chance to meet your potential wedding suppliers face to face I couldn't pass this chance up, especially with free tickets. I will certainly be sure not to forget to take time for a glass of bubbly in The Champagne Bar! 

Amongst some of the vendors and exhibitors at the event, my fellow Brides and I can shop hundreds of the UK’s finest wedding suppliers & bridal brands covering everything from dresses to cakes. With inspiration, help and advice from over 250 wedding specialists, thousands of dresses from all the leading designers and a showstopping catwalk to experience the latest bridal trends with groomswear, accessories, make-up, hair and more it will certainly be a long day, but worth it. 

Who knows maybe I will find the dream dress? The one. The absolute epitome of perfection that screams my name without even me wearing it! After the last visit to try on wedding dresses, I am keen to get a few more visits booked in especially when I have both of my maid-of-honour and chief bridesmaid at my disposal. Whilst finding the perfect wedding dress is essential to my big day, The National Wedding Show may be the best place to start. 

An unrivalled selection of bridal shops and designer labels brought together under one roof means me and the girls can explore hundreds of different designers, styles, colours, lengths, embellishments, accessories and more, all in one place. With something to cater for every taste, every budget and every style, fingers crossed I’ll find the one!  I can try on as many dresses as I like with no appointments necessary and I am sure that many exhibitors will be running exclusive at-show discounts and offers. The stunning catwalk show will also be a great place to hit up and take the weight off and judging from the website will be featuring dresses from David’s Bridal, Lady Bird, Halo and Wren and many more. 

Here's hoping that deep-V Morilee satin gown is in the sale for under my five-hundred quid budget. Although to be fair when I saw it at a wedding fair last weekend and a few weekends ago also the price tag was well over £3,000.00. Even if I am not able to find my dream dress in the next few weeks whilst Mrs Tweedle-Dumb is over then I will have plenty of time to have another look around and check out some sales before I need to get serious about buying my dress, although I suppose I need to wonder where the dreaming and playing in white dresses stops and the buying starts. 

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx