Pinterest Bucket List

Unless you have been living under a social media rock lately you are aware of Pinterest. Even my fiance, who was just introduced to Twitter, asked the other day, "Babe, what IS Pinterest?" This was followed shortly by a mildly disgusted, "you have one."

The truth is, I find it to be sort of like a god send (aside from the fact I lose multiple hours of my day because I'm too busy pinning to pay attention to the clock). The reason is unless you enjoy having stacks of notebooks and magazines piled miles high filled with post-its and tabbed pages, full of inspiration you may someday need but have no way to presently methodically organizing...Pinterest can fix that. I love it. I find a picture and I post it to a board so I know exactly where to look next time I feel inspired to look at bouquets or ribbons or parasols.

Anyway, the other night I was wandering around in my brain, thinking about how I should make a bucket list and the types of things I would put on it...when it came to me, how awesome it would be to create a Pinterest bucket list. I'm sure this is not a radically new idea, but it's a fun one nonetheless. You can find a photo of whatever you think represents that list item, type a little description if you feel so compelled, and pin it to your bucket list board. Even cuter would be to have a board for the list items that have been completed, just move the picture (or pin a photo of you accomplishing your goal). 

I may have to go work on mine. Enjoy!

Wedding Planning: It's A Family Affair

I knew the first few weeks of April were going to be hectic, but I'm not sure if I was prepared for the total extent of the chaos. I have so much to share and, as usual, not enough time to fill you all in. Let's start with current affairs: this week my fiance's mother is coming to visit us from Iowa and this got me to thinking, while I have a great relationship with my future in-laws, not every bride can say they are that lucky.  So, today I just wanted to share a couple tips for getting along, coping, and wedding planning with your significant other's family. 

Be Patient and Respectful: No matter what the issue is you should always keep in mind that these are members of your partner's family and showing them respect is a courteous gesture (and a necessary one). We all come from different values and traditions, so be patient if your future mother-in-law doesn't quite understand your wedding vision. Odds are neither of you want to intentionally offend one another and she more likely than not just wants you to be happy.  Just take the time to be friendly. 

Ignore What You Can: It's important to pick and choose your battles.  No need to turn a tiny comment into a world war, so when possible, just let things roll off your back. If something must be addressed, just be honest- not rude or hostile- but truthful; it's important to not let your emotions build up. 

It's Okay To Say "No": If the in-laws have been bombarding you with wedding demands since day one it is fine to inform them whether or not it is a feasible request. Again, just be polite and honest. Another idea if you are getting pelted by decor or vendor suggestions, but you really don't want Great Aunt Sally doing the flowers, then simply tell them you will take the suggestion into consideration. Be diplomatic about things. If, however, things are out of control and a family member is particularly overbearing, it may be important that your partner step in and diffuse the situation. 

Pumpkin Chic

I'm so excited for Halloween I thought I would greet October with an elegant spin on traditional pumpkin decor. Thanks to Ladies Home Journal for the inspiration! Visit the link for full article and decorating instructions.