tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38391536888455408942024-03-13T06:11:57.792-05:00A Cape Cod BrideDaily Wedding Inspiration for Brides from a Newlywed!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger101125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-59422611275265596982011-11-30T20:46:00.000-06:002011-11-30T20:46:33.953-06:00JewelMint Giveaway Winner!I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! I'm excited to announce that the winner of the <a href="http://jmnt.me/pnvp9Q" target="_blank">JewelMint</a> giveaway is . . .<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Sayuri (AKA @atychiphobiax)</span></b><br />
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Congratulations!!! Please contact me at capecodbride@gmail.com to claim the <a href="http://jmnt.me/pnvp9Q" target="_blank">JewelMint</a> piece of your choice!<br />
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Don't forget that if you didn't win but are new to <a href="http://jmnt.me/pnvp9Q" target="_blank">JewelMint</a>, you can use the discount code <b><span style="font-size: small;">FASHION70</span></b> on your first purchase to buy one, get one at 70% off!<br />
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Is anyone else as excited as I am that the new December <a href="http://jmnt.me/pnvp9Q" target="_blank">JewelMint</a> pieces arrive tomorrow?? I'm loving this December sneak peek:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gc8jxk7ImKo/Ttbpg-f6yII/AAAAAAAABCQ/r7WyEsgOecY/s1600/Exclusive%252BJewelMint%252BDecember%252B2011%252BSneak%252BPeek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gc8jxk7ImKo/Ttbpg-f6yII/AAAAAAAABCQ/r7WyEsgOecY/s400/Exclusive%252BJewelMint%252BDecember%252B2011%252BSneak%252BPeek.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">December JewelMint Bracelet</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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Happy shopping everyone!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-48498511897557013552011-11-20T15:09:00.002-06:002011-11-20T20:07:45.232-06:00JewelMint Giveaway!I'm so excited that November is all about giveaways on my blog! I recently joined <a href="http://jmnt.co/sFFnZs%20" target="_blank">JewelMint</a> and have been obsessed with their chic jewelry designs ever since. Back in October, I wrote a <a href="http://acapecodbride.blogspot.com/2011/10/wedding-jewelry-on-budget-jewelmint.html" target="_blank">blog post </a>about my recommendations for brides on a budget looking for affordable jewelry for their wedding day. Now, I'm thrilled to announce that I've partnered with JewelMint to do a product review and host a giveaway!<br />
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In case you missed my prior post, here are the details on JewelMint: For $29.99 per month, you can purchase a piece from their exclusive collection, designed by Kate Bosworth and stylist Cher. They introduce new pieces each month, and provide recommendations based on your personal preferences after you take their style quiz. Here are some examples of the products they offer:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwf2ju59fN9O08wzp2nFs4wSJ0lnPtiE00sfqh99H67-vwSPQix2xJj6iXb4Wjzkxc0Vmm75Y-l7URwMC7Vv7qyOjSbE12sod_6JY49DYNWLOKiif4niGTMjbeQI1BTkAAWtBrogjGWT4Z/s1600/JewelMint+Board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwf2ju59fN9O08wzp2nFs4wSJ0lnPtiE00sfqh99H67-vwSPQix2xJj6iXb4Wjzkxc0Vmm75Y-l7URwMC7Vv7qyOjSbE12sod_6JY49DYNWLOKiif4niGTMjbeQI1BTkAAWtBrogjGWT4Z/s640/JewelMint+Board.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
As you can see, they offer a variety of pieces to suit any personality. The site is free to join, but the only catch is that once you purchase a piece of jewelry, you become automatically enrolled in their club. They charge you $29.99 at the beginning of the month, and you get a credit that can be used towards any pieces of jewelry, or saved for up to a year. If you don't find any pieces you like in a given month, or need to save dough, you can skip being charged $29.99 for that month as long as you select to do so within the first 5 days of the month. Needless to say, this club is best suited for those with good memories (or iPhone alerts), to ensure you don't get charged each month unless you intend to purchase a piece!<br />
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Next, onto the product reviews! JewelMint sent me the Mesh Marvel bracelet and Screen Siren earrings, each of which came packaged in a cute mint green box with a black bow. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dQlLzKnVhQw/TshMEo_7GkI/AAAAAAAABBk/xjC3nDmR1iw/s1600/149086_162603693781177_121801907861356_282609_6644698_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="353" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dQlLzKnVhQw/TshMEo_7GkI/AAAAAAAABBk/xjC3nDmR1iw/s400/149086_162603693781177_121801907861356_282609_6644698_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I chose the Screen Siren earrings because they are simply gorgeous, and thought they would look great during the holidays. I have to say, the pictures do not do them justice. They are super sparkly in person, and although long and a good size, they are not too heavy to wear for the entire evening.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0967wzLGl3I/TshTFW65HkI/AAAAAAAABCE/g-u-9wslhOY/s1600/Blog-Image-Temp-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0967wzLGl3I/TshTFW65HkI/AAAAAAAABCE/g-u-9wslhOY/s400/Blog-Image-Temp-17.jpg" width="317" /></a></div><br />
The Mesh Marvel bracelet seems really well-made, and I love how simple and versatile it is. This is a piece that I chose because I am able to wear it to work for a polished look, and then dress it up for an evening out with the hubby or friends.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_kZVGQkt9hQ/TshMGSjCBLI/AAAAAAAABB0/yLXpgth4Wpg/s1600/231442868319966686_J6jtPfwl_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_kZVGQkt9hQ/TshMGSjCBLI/AAAAAAAABB0/yLXpgth4Wpg/s400/231442868319966686_J6jtPfwl_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Finally, onto the best part: the giveaway! First, I have an exclusive code for Cape Cod Bride readers. Buy one piece, get one at 70% off using the code <b>FASHION70</b>.<br />
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I'm also really excited to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a JewelMint piece of your choice! Here are the details on how to enter the giveaway: You get 1 entry per item. <u>Make sure you leave a blog comment below for <b>each</b> entry</u>!<br />
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<ol><li>Go to <a href="http://jmnt.me/vWzt0g" target="_blank">JewelMint</a>, take the style quiz, and tell me which piece you would choose if you are the winner.</li>
<li>Follow A Cape Cod Bride blog with Google Friend Connect.</li>
<li>Subscribe to A Cape Cod Bride's RSS feed (on the right side of the page)</li>
<li>Follow A Cape Cod Bride by email (enter your email on the right side of the page)</li>
<li>Follow @CapeCodBride on <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/CapeCodBride">Twitter</a>. </li>
<li>Follow @jewelmint on <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/jewelmint" target="_blank">Twitter</a>. </li>
<li>Like JewelMint on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JewelMint" target="_blank">facebook</a>. </li>
<li>Tweet about this giveaway using the following statement: I just entered to win @CapeCodBride's #giveaway to #win free jewelry from @jewelmint! Enter here:http://acapecodbride.blogspot.com/2011/11/jewelmint-giveaway.html</li>
</ol>You have until 11:59pm CST on Tuesday, November 29th to enter, and the winner will be announced on Wednesday, November 30th. This contest is open to <b>U.S. residents only. </b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com99tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-78547645577915392842011-11-15T14:02:00.000-06:002011-11-15T14:02:53.541-06:00Shabby Apple Giveaway Winner!Thanks to everyone who entered my giveaway to win this gorgeous dress from Shabby Apple! I had lots of entries here, as well as on my post on <a href="http://dld.bz/8Ccc" target="_blank">Get Married</a>, where I am a featured bridal blogger!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xzCQNhKe8yk/TsLExIxW_iI/AAAAAAAABBc/u8bZooEemT4/s1600/972.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xzCQNhKe8yk/TsLExIxW_iI/AAAAAAAABBc/u8bZooEemT4/s640/972.jpg" width="384" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.shabbyapple.com/p-972-spanish-steps.aspx" target="_blank">Spanish Steps Dress</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
The winner was chosen randomly (using the site <a href="http://random.org/">Random.org</a>), and came from an entry on this blog. So without further ado, here's a a big congratulations to: <br />
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<b>L.O.A.H. </b><br />
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Thank you to everyone who entered! If you found a dress you absolutely must have at <a href="http://shabbyapple.com/" target="_blank">Shabby Apple</a>, don't forget to use the code <b>capecodbride10off</b> to receive a 10% discount on your purchase! Hurry, because the code expires at the end of November!<br />
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I have more giveaways coming up this month and next, so please check back soon :-)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-31669590877125051172011-11-10T17:36:00.001-06:002011-11-10T17:39:42.023-06:00Wedding Recap: Our Cake!Chicago had it's first snow of the season today, and this event is making me nostalgic for my winter wedding! It's hard to believe that our 2 year anniversary is quickly approaching! I have yet to share pictures of our lovely wedding cake, and decided it was high time to do so, in case any other winter brides are looking for inspiration.<br />
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My husband and I knew we wanted a traditional round cake, though square was our second choice, and even that minor detail was a tough decision! We met with <a href="http://www.dottielovelythecakelady.com/">Dottie Lovely, aka "The Cake Lady,"</a> and she helped turn my vision of a winter-themed cake into reality. I loved that she used snowflakes and pearls, while combining the gorgeous silver, blue, and white flowers we had in our wedding.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Hy5nfCngI30o79xPozMMeV2-0LGrOOu-R6UbCTaesZVu4AcQtzxXGnbFv_faPeiX1U3Z6aBgEbCWtUVn5mzsGyLZA2txnSeHHlPV2Q8eAnjShApqHjyaXkyl_uDfv9OqEyqA_CuAygb9/s1600/18672_882800139289_811741_50099191_1149228_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Hy5nfCngI30o79xPozMMeV2-0LGrOOu-R6UbCTaesZVu4AcQtzxXGnbFv_faPeiX1U3Z6aBgEbCWtUVn5mzsGyLZA2txnSeHHlPV2Q8eAnjShApqHjyaXkyl_uDfv9OqEyqA_CuAygb9/s640/18672_882800139289_811741_50099191_1149228_n.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><br />
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I could not have been happier with the final result, but the best part was that the cake tasted amazing! We chose buttercream because it tastes far superior to fondant, and had layers of red velvet, marble, and carrot cake, so there was something to please everyone.<br />
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And on to the best part: Cutting the cake!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CICZCp1IQy0/TrxfW6qKk4I/AAAAAAAABBE/S7Y8yPh6J9s/s1600/18672_882801940679_811741_50099262_7052951_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CICZCp1IQy0/TrxfW6qKk4I/AAAAAAAABBE/S7Y8yPh6J9s/s640/18672_882801940679_811741_50099262_7052951_n.jpg" width="424" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yWcxY9unb_E/TrxfXvWHI4I/AAAAAAAABBM/vH_G9f5YkLs/s1600/18672_882801890779_811741_50099260_3713820_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yWcxY9unb_E/TrxfXvWHI4I/AAAAAAAABBM/vH_G9f5YkLs/s640/18672_882801890779_811741_50099260_3713820_n.jpg" width="424" /></a></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WHzSnHkO4FU/TrxfYWO-5CI/AAAAAAAABBU/CpyY4joLIGM/s1600/18672_882801980599_811741_50099265_7592592_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WHzSnHkO4FU/TrxfYWO-5CI/AAAAAAAABBU/CpyY4joLIGM/s640/18672_882801980599_811741_50099265_7592592_n.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All photos by Seth Kammueller<br />
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</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-9561714436447238862011-11-02T08:39:00.003-05:002011-11-02T09:06:21.361-05:00Shabby Apple GiveawayNovember is a very exciting month for me because I have more giveaways to host! I love using this blog to gift free merchandise to my readers, so I'm excited to announce that I have partnered with <a href="http://www.shabbyapple.com/">Shabby Apple</a> to give away a free dress!<br />
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Shabby Apple is an online boutique that specializes in vintage-inspired women's dresses. They also sell adorable frocks for <a href="http://www.shabbyapple.com/c-16-shabby-baby-dresses.aspx">infants and little girls</a>, and flattering maternity wear at their <a href="http://www.shabbyapple.com/c-35-mama-apple.aspx">Mama Apple</a> store. I love that their dresses offer a modern spin on the vintage dresses of the 1950's and 60's. Their conservative style makes the dresses appropriate for work or play, yet their very feminine shape shows the world that you do not have to bare all to be sexy. Finally, I like that the website <a href="http://www.shabbyapple.com/t-FitToFlatter.aspx">offers</a> a quiz to learn about your body shape and provides recommendations to suit your figure!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mAjWWV0rsCk/Tq84oNkOp6I/AAAAAAAABAk/w4ql8EkdgCY/s1600/ShabbyApple1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mAjWWV0rsCk/Tq84oNkOp6I/AAAAAAAABAk/w4ql8EkdgCY/s640/ShabbyApple1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Without further ado, here is the dress that one lucky reader will win: <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CH_aBqW45ck/Tq83KE2Vi8I/AAAAAAAABAU/K9nTJu95zDM/s1600/972_5_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CH_aBqW45ck/Tq83KE2Vi8I/AAAAAAAABAU/K9nTJu95zDM/s640/972_5_.jpg" width="384" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SF6c5pBHZls/Tq83LX6w2hI/AAAAAAAABAc/cNIl5j-rET4/s1600/972.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SF6c5pBHZls/Tq83LX6w2hI/AAAAAAAABAc/cNIl5j-rET4/s640/972.jpg" width="384" /></a></div><br />
I love this dress because it is elegant and feminine, while still being fun and flirty. The flower applique detailing is gorgeous, and makes it unique from many other dresses. I also like that the dress appears to be two separate pieces, since I think that makes it very versatile. This is a dress that could easily be dressed up to attend a bridal shower, for example, or dressed down to attend a weekend brunch. <br />
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Here are the details on how to enter the giveaway: You get 1 entry per item. <u>Make sure you leave a blog comment below for <b>each</b> entry</u>!<br />
<ol><li>Leave a comment stating where you would wear this dress if you are the winner.</li>
<li>Follow A Cape Cod Bride blog with Google Friend Connect.</li>
<li>Subscribe to A Cape Cod Bride's RSS feed (on the right side of the page)</li>
<li>Follow A Cape Cod Bride by email (enter your email on the right side of the page)</li>
<li>Follow @CapeCodBride on <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/CapeCodBride">Twitter</a>. </li>
<li>Follow @shabbyapple on <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/shabbyapple">Twitter</a>. </li>
<li>Like Shabby Apple on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Shabby-Apple/56291792791">facebook</a>. </li>
<li>Tweet this giveaway using the following statement: I just entered to win @CapeCodBride's #giveaway to #win a gorgeous dress from @shabbyapple! Enter here: http://acapecodbride.blogspot.com/2011/11/shabby-apple-giveaway.html</li>
</ol>You have until 11:59pm CST on Monday November 14th to enter, and the winner will be announced on Tuesday. This contest is open to <b>U.S. residents only. </b><br />
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Finally, while there can only be one contest winner, Shabby Apple is offering an exclusive discount to all Cape Cod Bride readers! Simply enter <b>capecodbride10off</b> at checkout and you will receive <b>10% off</b> your purchase. <b><br />
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Happy shopping!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com60tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-30290689788831271792011-10-26T15:28:00.000-05:002011-10-26T15:28:04.944-05:00Wedding Inspiration: Love Birds!Lately, I've been obsessing with love birds as a wedding theme. The great thing about this idea is it can be customized to your wedding colors, and offers so many different decorating ideas. Plus, the birds are simply adorable!<br />
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Since this theme is becoming more popular, there are plenty of affordable ways to incorporate love birds into your big day. From customizable artwork (top left), to cake toppers (center), to personalized stamps for your invites (top right), there are tons of creative ways to use this theme. Searching the term "love birds" on Etsy will offer you a slew of ideas, or come up with your own!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L1T-Uuura0A/TqhsKGrQFWI/AAAAAAAABAE/6Id8YAq9E-Q/s1600/Love+Birds+Mosaic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L1T-Uuura0A/TqhsKGrQFWI/AAAAAAAABAE/6Id8YAq9E-Q/s640/Love+Birds+Mosaic.jpg" width="636" /></a></div><br />
What do you think of love birds as a wedding theme? Would you considering using this for your big day?<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet, "Trebuchet MS", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><a class="a2a_dd" href="http://www.addtoany.com/share_save#url=http%3A%2F%2Facapecodbride.blogspot.com%2F&title=A%20Cape%20Cod%20Bride&description=" style="color: #e1771e; text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="Share/Bookmark" border="0" height="16" src="http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_171_16.png" style="border-bottom: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-left: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-right: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-top: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-top: 4px;" width="171" /></a></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-45243777347926512412011-10-03T09:37:00.003-05:002011-10-03T09:42:30.547-05:00Wedding Jewelry on a Budget: JewelMintSince I started this blog while planning a recessionista wedding, I wanted to get back to my roots with this post and focus on wedding jewelry that is truly budget beautiful. I love browsing <a href="http://www.jewelmint.com/">JewelMint</a>, which recently celebrated it's 1st anniversary bringing you fab accessories. In case you live under a rock, JewelMint is an online jewelry club. For $29.99 per month, you can purchase a piece from their exclusive collection, designed by Kate Bosworth and stylist Cher. They introduce new pieces each month, and provide recommendations based on your personal preferences after you take their style quiz.<br />
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It's free to join, but the only catch is that once you purchase a piece of jewelry, you become automatically enrolled in their club. So if you are making a one-time purchase (like for your wedding) make sure to cancel your account immediately afterwards. If you want to remain a member, you can skip being charged $29.99 for that month as long as you select to do so within the first 5 days of the month. Needless to say, this club is best suited for those with good memories (or iPhone alerts), to ensure you don't get charged each month unless you intend to purchase a piece! <br />
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While some may find it to be too much of a hassle, I guarantee that it is worth the effort if you want a piece of statement wedding jewelry for a bargain. So without further ado, here are my top picks this month, based your your bridal style (categories created by me!). <br />
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<a href="http://jmnt.me/qFhz27">Join JewelMint through my personal link by clicking here!</a><br />
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For the classic bride, I love the Forever Audrey earrings, which are glamorous yet simple:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ObA326N_VWM/Toe6pAyFzGI/AAAAAAAAA_o/ptsmF_yzQso/s1600/jm110919m_011_vertical_sharpened_srgb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ObA326N_VWM/Toe6pAyFzGI/AAAAAAAAA_o/ptsmF_yzQso/s1600/jm110919m_011_vertical_sharpened_srgb.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Forever Audrey Earrings</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>A romantic bride would look wonderful adorned with the nostalgic Gatsby bracelet:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9CNo1tiMQ4I/TokDdNDcBMI/AAAAAAAAA_8/Cmv8SdQ54Nc/s1600/jmb0035-118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9CNo1tiMQ4I/TokDdNDcBMI/AAAAAAAAA_8/Cmv8SdQ54Nc/s1600/jmb0035-118.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gatsby Bracelet</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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I absolutely adore the Versailles earrings, which are perfect for the bride who loves to be the center of attention, and wants to look like a princess on her wedding day!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aupzav-zbGc/Toe6xlp1TSI/AAAAAAAAA_w/xRv2x9XCt34/s1600/img_6811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aupzav-zbGc/Toe6xlp1TSI/AAAAAAAAA_w/xRv2x9XCt34/s1600/img_6811.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Versailles Earrings</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
For the retro bride, my pick is the Savoy bracelet, inspired by the art deco designs of the 1920's.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jG7GRa9sXs0/TokB3UDaq0I/AAAAAAAAA_0/cj5BOxurNNY/s1600/jmb0029-111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jG7GRa9sXs0/TokB3UDaq0I/AAAAAAAAA_0/cj5BOxurNNY/s1600/jmb0029-111.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Savoy Bracelet</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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Finally, for the outdoor bride looking to incorporate the beauty of nature into her ensemble, my pick is the pearl Calla Lilly earrings.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OFqRg7NNX1o/Toe6qnpzdFI/AAAAAAAAA_s/xSAHbS39JSY/s1600/jme0018-156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OFqRg7NNX1o/Toe6qnpzdFI/AAAAAAAAA_s/xSAHbS39JSY/s1600/jme0018-156.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calla Lilly Earrings</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
What type of bride do you identify as, and which piece would you choose to wear on your big day?<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet, "Trebuchet MS", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><a class="a2a_dd" href="http://www.addtoany.com/share_save#url=http%3A%2F%2Facapecodbride.blogspot.com%2F&title=A%20Cape%20Cod%20Bride&description=" style="color: #e1771e; text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="Share/Bookmark" border="0" height="16" src="http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_171_16.png" style="border-bottom: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-left: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-right: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-top: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-top: 4px;" width="171" /></a></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-65815666990213593172011-09-26T16:25:00.000-05:002011-09-26T16:25:36.668-05:00Daisy Days Giveaway Winner!Hello all,<br />
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Thank you so much for entering the my contest to win a $25 gift card to <a href="http://www.daisy-days.com/">Daisy Days</a>! I had a ton of entries and comments, which I always love, on here as well as on Twitter, <a href="http://brides.weddingchicks.com/2011/09/18/cape-cod-bride-giveaway/">Wedding Chicks</a>, and <a href="http://www.getmarried.com/wedding-blog/2011/09/19/a-cape-cod-bride-giveaway/#comments">Get Married</a>!<br />
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I put all of the entries into an electronic list randomizer, the modern day equivalent to drawing a name from a hat. Believe me, I was excited as you guys to see who would be the winner of this awesome gift card!<br />
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Since you've been waiting all day for me to announce the winner, I won't keep you in suspense any longer. Let's all give a big congrats to . . . Cynthia Lucero!!!<br />
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Thanks again to all those who entered and I hope everyone has a great week!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-58977285245242743522011-09-17T08:22:00.001-05:002011-09-18T18:58:47.554-05:00Daisy Days Giveaway!Hello blog readers! I'm very excited to announce that I'm hosting a new giveaway, starting today. One lucky Cape Cod Bride reader will win a $25 gift card to <a href="http://www.daisy-days.com/">Daisy Days</a>!<br />
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<a href="http://www.daisy-days.com/">Daisy Days</a> literally has everything you need to plan your big day, from bridal shower goods to bachelorette party favors to reception essentials. I'm so upset they were not around when I was planning my December 2009 wedding! I especially love that this site offers a plethora of wedding items that are eco-friendly, since nothing is more chic than a green wedding!<br />
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So you can get an idea of what <a href="http://www.daisy-days.com/">Daisy Days</a> has to offer, I've perused the site and made an inspiration board for y'all. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1DImD5V7fLc/TnSezDmKFNI/AAAAAAAAA_k/DdQ--qZEkRo/s1600/Giveaway+Mosaic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1DImD5V7fLc/TnSezDmKFNI/AAAAAAAAA_k/DdQ--qZEkRo/s640/Giveaway+Mosaic.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Now onto the best part: Here's how to enter:<br />
<ol><li>Comment on this post stating how you would spend the $25 gift card if you are the winner.</li>
<li>Become a follower of A Cape Cod Bride blog.</li>
<li>Tweet this giveaway using this tweet: I just entered @CapeCodBride's giveaway to win a $25 gift card to @DaisyDaysFavors! Enter here: http://acapecodbride.blogspot.com/2011/09/daisy-days-giveaway.html</li>
<li>Post this giveaway on your own blog. </li>
</ol>Each response will yield you one entry into the drawing, for a total of up to 4 entries. Be sure to comment on my blog, stating which steps you took to enter (e.g. followed my blog, posted the giveaway on your blog), so I give you the correct number of entries. <br />
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Finally, act fast, as this contest will only be open until Sunday, September 25, 2011 at midnight CST. The winner will be announced on Monday September 26th!<br />
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Good luck to all and have a great week!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-43465780105739497912011-09-05T11:46:00.000-05:002011-09-05T11:46:44.497-05:00BHLDN On A Budget!Like many women, my heart swoons whenever I step inside <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/">Anthropologie</a>. Sadly, I cannot afford to shop there regularly, especially on a grad student budget in the middle of a recession! However, I was thrilled to recently learn that the team behind Anthropologie decided to venture into another one of my passions, the wedding world, with their new store,<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_784699110"> BHLD</a><a href="http://www.bhldn.com/">N</a>.<br />
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A great feature of the BHLDN website is that it offers more than just a shopping experience for brides. It includes free interactive experiences to help inspire you while planning your wedding, and provide another great way to procrastinate ;-) For example, I took a fun quiz called "<a href="http://www.bhldn.com/explore_what-kind-of-bride-are-you/">What Kind of Bride Are You?</a>" and discovered that I am a Romantic Nostalgic bride, which was a very accurate portrayal of my vintage Cape Cod wedding. The website also offers <a href="http://www.bhldn.com/Mybhldn_moodboards">MoodBoards</a>, aka inspiration boards, where you can view their products based on themes or color palettes, or even create your own board!<br />
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Disclaimer: I guarantee you will love everything BHLDN offers, but like it's sister store Anthropologie, products from here do not come cheap. Since one of my goals is to provide wedding inspiration for brides on a budget, I have scoured the site and chosen the best wedding attire and accessories for budget-minded brides.<br />
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Here are 2 boards featuring my favorite dresses, that are all an amazing steal at $1600 or less!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tu9tJ4rsxS8/TmT4HFz43BI/AAAAAAAAA_U/fYhOh4QmvhE/s1600/Dresses1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tu9tJ4rsxS8/TmT4HFz43BI/AAAAAAAAA_U/fYhOh4QmvhE/s640/Dresses1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l57P1D5EtN0/TmT4LQxy8vI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/yuivm-1hAog/s1600/Dresses2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l57P1D5EtN0/TmT4LQxy8vI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/yuivm-1hAog/s640/Dresses2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Finally, another great way to incorporate the romantic, unique, and vintage products BHLDN offers while not breaking the bank is to carefully choose more affordable accessories for your big day. Here are my top picks:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHelu0cYJ9KdxT1JtUs3jNBmH65kvON_gcwfYI9hCR81rGRVknqm_qOGCV-jN8OfhANpr_BDJ3-bGvETScJn2M9KJcy3iBVU0n2Qllou3r4CU5TP5JgIyQPzs0zb0h4vouwyTm2m-wCQRn/s1600/Large+Mosaic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHelu0cYJ9KdxT1JtUs3jNBmH65kvON_gcwfYI9hCR81rGRVknqm_qOGCV-jN8OfhANpr_BDJ3-bGvETScJn2M9KJcy3iBVU0n2Qllou3r4CU5TP5JgIyQPzs0zb0h4vouwyTm2m-wCQRn/s640/Large+Mosaic.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Images from center, then clockwise from top left: Choose a lovely silk hat/birdcage veil for a vintage vibe ($120); Love coasters provide a romantic touch ($14 for 10); Don polka dot gloves for a unique look ($40); Brighten up your fete with colorful straws ($6 a pack); Eat your cake with a pair of engraved love forks ($24 a pair); Serve treats on lovely pedestals ($68-$88); Statement earrings are great bridesmaid's gifts ($66); Accessorize your cocktail hour with love stirrers ($22 for 24); Use adorable mini teapots as escort card holders ($52 for 6); Glam a simple pair of shoes with colorful pom poms! ($25 per pair); Choose simple but sophisticated letterpress invites ($26 for 8); Chalkboard vases make unforgettable table numbers ($18); Faux flowers are a great way to save money without compromising on style ($32 for 5).<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet, "Trebuchet MS", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><a class="a2a_dd" href="http://www.addtoany.com/share_save#url=http%3A%2F%2Facapecodbride.blogspot.com%2F&title=A%20Cape%20Cod%20Bride&description=" style="color: #e1771e; text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="Share/Bookmark" border="0" height="16" src="http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_171_16.png" style="border-bottom: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-left: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-right: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-top: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-top: 4px;" width="171" /></a></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-54901772694497986112011-08-22T07:41:00.002-05:002011-08-22T07:44:01.990-05:00Announcing My New Company: Viator Gear!Hi blog readers! Today's blog post is very exciting for me. My husband, Toby, and his friend Nolan have created a new company called <a href="http://www.viatorgear.com/">Viator Gear</a>, of which I am officially Vice President of Public Relations!<br />
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Toby and Nolan have collectively traveled over 1 million miles by land, air and sea. They know how difficult traveling can be, especially these days. That's why they decided to make a new website that sells products that they know are essential to improving your travel experience. <br />
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So how does this pertain to all you brides out there? Well most brides I know travel for their honeymoon, and have several out-of-town guests/bridal party members attend their nuptials. With all the stresses associated with planning your wedding, worrying about traveling should not be one of them. I can fully support this statement having planned a destination wedding myself!<br />
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Check out this nifty mosaic I made featuring some of the products our new site sells. Some of these products would also be great in a gift basket for out-of-town guests, or as attendant favors!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1lIwRsg2o28/TlF2rERw3rI/AAAAAAAAA_Q/ZqF7CH7M5CA/s1600/VG+Mosaic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="620" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1lIwRsg2o28/TlF2rERw3rI/AAAAAAAAA_Q/ZqF7CH7M5CA/s640/VG+Mosaic.jpg" width="620" /></a></div><br />
Photos from center, then clockwise from top left: Ladies, nothing is more exhausting than your wedding day, trust me. When you arrive at the airport and grab your post-wedding cup of joe, don't worry about spilling on your cute honeymoon outfit. Put in a convenient luggage cup holder. All you germaphobic couples will love a toothbrush sanitizer. A colorful jewelry organizer is a must for your honeymoon, and also makes a great bridesmaid gift! A travel steamer is a must for keeping your date night outfits wrinkle-free, while saving precious time to spend with your new spouse! Also, don't forget to weight your luggage before heading to the airport, so you don't get slammed with extra baggage fees!<br />
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The green wallet is not your average wallet, it actually blocks RFID's, protecting you from people trying to scan your personal information off your license/passport. Protect your iPad/latop with a cute white patent case. Gift your new hubby with a trendy monochromatic passport case. No these, are not coloful light bulbs. They are 3 ounces containers, perfect for carrying on your fave shampoos, body washes, etc. Hotel rooms never having enough outlets is no longer a problem with this USB Power Pirate.<br />
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Finally, a tolietry organizer is a must for ensuring that your essential beauty products do not spill all over your suitcase. Ever notice how planes are freezing? Nothing is better than a microbial fleece blanket to help you arrive warm and healthy to your destination! If you're going out of the country for your wedding or honeymoon, don't forget electronic converters, so you can use all your devices without frying them! Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-62856554393132121412011-08-15T09:45:00.001-05:002011-08-15T09:48:17.855-05:00New Color Combo: Charcoal & EmeraldI'm going to be a bridesmaid in a September wedding in which one of the wedding colors is charcoal. While the bride is doing a lovely combination of charcoal against soft pastels, I also love when this dark neutral is expressed with bright pops of color, such as canary yellow, featured in the image below.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRaUJ_fpg20UNfOgRtzEGDrPuQrzlIeyH1fM4pCynqSDjdzpIoLR-QpuIay9jFRUgJAJGMgb604p5Hvjwdq9kZAobipae9KJlx964vMIghg7G1q_Mv8FAXpO1ZIx0cRfokZ4xAdRTzmiAd/s1600/url.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRaUJ_fpg20UNfOgRtzEGDrPuQrzlIeyH1fM4pCynqSDjdzpIoLR-QpuIay9jFRUgJAJGMgb604p5Hvjwdq9kZAobipae9KJlx964vMIghg7G1q_Mv8FAXpO1ZIx0cRfokZ4xAdRTzmiAd/s640/url.jpeg" width="610" /></a></div><br />
However, lately I prefer unexpected color combinations. So I came up with an emerald green and charcoal palette, offset by the cool crispness of white.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6SlCN77XXubDggWOXkTtv0vn7ay9ehgLNxGpUsZ4VKNjHqbx328VHWU_1z3RnlZcRf4nfHEnVYdOaDPAqCNb_LEq-VwGdwfOjfbCma90WQOpACyE_aUT3ajl91c2q-2-puX1BvIN8ZYY/s1600/Gray+%2526+Green+Inspiration+Board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6SlCN77XXubDggWOXkTtv0vn7ay9ehgLNxGpUsZ4VKNjHqbx328VHWU_1z3RnlZcRf4nfHEnVYdOaDPAqCNb_LEq-VwGdwfOjfbCma90WQOpACyE_aUT3ajl91c2q-2-puX1BvIN8ZYY/s640/Gray+%2526+Green+Inspiration+Board.jpg" width="610" /></a></div><br />
What are your favorite unexpected color combinations for a wedding?<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet, "Trebuchet MS", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><a class="a2a_dd" href="http://www.addtoany.com/share_save#url=http%3A%2F%2Facapecodbride.blogspot.com%2F&title=A%20Cape%20Cod%20Bride&description=" style="color: #e1771e; text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="Share/Bookmark" border="0" height="16" src="http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_171_16.png" style="border-bottom: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-left: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-right: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-top: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-top: 4px;" width="171" /></a></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-76083675682159421482011-08-08T16:58:00.000-05:002011-08-08T16:58:43.663-05:00Engagement Rings With A ConscienceA friend of mine recently became engaged. When I saw her to celebrate this milestone, she showed me her lovely ring. What made it so fabulous was that she chose an eco-friendly, uncut, natural diamond for her stone. Not only is it really unique and fits her personality, but she can feel good knowing that she did not select a "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blood_diamond">blood diamond</a>." <br />
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Her ring inspired the present post on conflict-free engagement rings and wedding bands. All of the rings below were found on Etsy using the search term "conflict free engagement rings." While some are a bit pricey, most are quite affordable, another benefit of going green in your engagement ring selection!<br />
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I also chose a wide variety of stones in an array of settings. While not all of them are diamonds, there still are some "classic" engagement ring styles for the more traditional bride (e.g. large center picture). <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0KE5iSTjTDOnMe6wisaI2_EDvOji-YG0n78f4kcNpKZHGDsUOfpwRRQWkG3urhErEyg-F5_XtAHD8VoLFJrzGb-Rrz0x_0Puiptya64JFP4ft4r0LnjDH5HJGvJizDCt8fQ9OyNIMBugQ/s1600/Conflict-Free+Engagement+Rings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0KE5iSTjTDOnMe6wisaI2_EDvOji-YG0n78f4kcNpKZHGDsUOfpwRRQWkG3urhErEyg-F5_XtAHD8VoLFJrzGb-Rrz0x_0Puiptya64JFP4ft4r0LnjDH5HJGvJizDCt8fQ9OyNIMBugQ/s640/Conflict-Free+Engagement+Rings.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Now aren't these something you can feel good about?!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet, "Trebuchet MS", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><a class="a2a_dd" href="http://www.addtoany.com/share_save#url=http%3A%2F%2Facapecodbride.blogspot.com%2F&title=A%20Cape%20Cod%20Bride&description=" style="color: #e1771e; text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="Share/Bookmark" border="0" height="16" src="http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_171_16.png" style="border-bottom: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-left: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-right: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-top: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-top: 4px;" width="171" /></a></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-86109802898445238142011-08-01T09:38:00.003-05:002011-08-01T09:45:19.778-05:00The Best Wedding Decision I MadeThis week, I decided to take a break on doing inspiration boards and give some wedding advice to those in need (but don't worry, I will be back with plenty more boards soon!).<br />
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I was recently reminiscing about my wedding with a friend who is soon to be married. She asked me for advice on how to deal with the pressures of the big day. I told her that the best decision I made was getting a good night's sleep the night before my wedding.<br />
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It sounds simple and quite practical, really. But I almost passed up my chance to get a peaceful slumber due to what I thought I "should" be doing as a bride. Our original plan was to keep with tradition and spend the night before the wedding apart. My groom would stay at our swanky hotel, and I would stay at my parent's house.<br />
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But suddenly as we thought about leaving each other on the eve of our big day, we thought it was silly to spend the night apart. I knew I would not get a good night's sleep at my parent's house, and we felt that the only person we wanted to share our pre-wedding excitement and jitters with was each other. So instead we both stayed at our lovely hotel, slept in together in the morning, and woke up feeling refreshed and ready for our wedding. It seriously was the best choice we could have made, and I'm so glad we followed our hearts and heads!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sIcGtq3BbMw/TidWkce4AAI/AAAAAAAAA_M/e_dYAOPxUUo/s1600/the_spa_suites.jpeg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sIcGtq3BbMw/TidWkce4AAI/AAAAAAAAA_M/e_dYAOPxUUo/s1600/the_spa_suites.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our suite at <a href="http://www.chathambarsinn.com/">Chatham Bars Inn</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Thus, I now tell brides that the important thing to remember is that your wedding is a special event for you and your hubby-to-be to embark on the rest of your life together as partners. So do what makes you feel comfortable (even if that means going against tradition!) and you will find yourself as stress-free as possible on your big day! <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet, "Trebuchet MS", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><a class="a2a_dd" href="http://www.addtoany.com/share_save#url=http%3A%2F%2Facapecodbride.blogspot.com%2F&title=A%20Cape%20Cod%20Bride&description=" style="color: #e1771e; text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="Share/Bookmark" border="0" height="16" src="http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_171_16.png" style="border-bottom: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-left: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-right: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; border-top: rgb(225,119,30) 0pt solid; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-top: 4px;" width="171" /></a></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-11943242959577458632011-07-26T18:07:00.000-05:002011-07-26T18:07:10.126-05:00The Ultimate Prep: A Seersucker WeddingNothing says New England preppy like seersucker. This fabric is perfect for summer or beach weddings due to it's breathable, light cotton composition. While it's traditional color is blue, seersucker can now be found in an array of pastels, as well as neutrals such as khaki. <br />
<br />
As soon as summer rolls around, I love pulling out my seersucker clothing and accessories, such as my vintage <a href="http://www.katespade.com/">Kate Spade</a> purse (also great for a bride on her wedding day!).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGlRos99iKyWHs8y_yUTlNPkLw_hxYvBoi47Mz0CRCV7iZrgloXOAbl4gTtOncHGyXZgeZG88LNPzxKl1enKEnCkIfHxWaRQ-OybHHQZUZ6KYM2qm8lgSMlHy_EzjmyerRl7lEtbl1YkA-/s1600/Vintage+1980s+Kate+Spade+Seersucker+Summer+Handbag+Purse.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGlRos99iKyWHs8y_yUTlNPkLw_hxYvBoi47Mz0CRCV7iZrgloXOAbl4gTtOncHGyXZgeZG88LNPzxKl1enKEnCkIfHxWaRQ-OybHHQZUZ6KYM2qm8lgSMlHy_EzjmyerRl7lEtbl1YkA-/s400/Vintage+1980s+Kate+Spade+Seersucker+Summer+Handbag+Purse.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Seersucker would also be great as a wedding theme for brides looking to host a classic, preppy wedding. If you're fiance objects, just tell him that real men wear pastels, and he'll be thanking you when he's not wearing a traditional tux in 90 degree heat! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dWjEp4ZWAvA/TiW8rw-Wh7I/AAAAAAAAA-s/39-SfRzLol4/s1600/Seersucker+Board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dWjEp4ZWAvA/TiW8rw-Wh7I/AAAAAAAAA-s/39-SfRzLol4/s640/Seersucker+Board.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Finally, find some creative ways to incorporate seersucker into your wedding theme, such as customizing your wedding cake with stripes:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pL4eEzOfBGg/TiW_ePCF3EI/AAAAAAAAA-w/5G4umSxq8L8/s1600/%255Bcakegirls.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="391" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pL4eEzOfBGg/TiW_ePCF3EI/AAAAAAAAA-w/5G4umSxq8L8/s400/%255Bcakegirls.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cake by <a href="http://www.thecakegirls.com/">Cake Girls</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet,'Trebuchet MS',Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet,'Trebuchet MS',Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet,'Trebuchet MS',Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><a class="a2a_dd" href="http://www.addtoany.com/share_save#url=http%3A%2F%2Facapecodbride.blogspot.com%2F&title=A%20Cape%20Cod%20Bride&description=" style="color: #e1771e; text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="Share/Bookmark" border="0" height="16" src="http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_171_16.png" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(225, 119, 30); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 0pt; border-color: initial; border-left-color: rgb(225, 119, 30); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 0pt; border-right-color: rgb(225, 119, 30); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 0pt; border-style: initial; border-top-color: rgb(225, 119, 30); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 0pt; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-top: 4px;" width="171" /></a></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-36440490336030002672011-07-20T09:26:00.000-05:002011-07-20T09:26:01.602-05:00Natural InspirationFor the 4th of July, I was fortunate to spend a long weekend at my in-law's lake house. While there, I felt really inspired by all the earthy colors that surrounded me, such as the bright yellow flowers, deep purple berries, woodsy bark, and forest moss. Here is an inspiration board for brides who want a green, organic, and natural wedding palette :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sqe5B5Ubrx0/TiWN2nZ9kAI/AAAAAAAAA-o/JzdEiGcZ7-4/s1600/Nature+Inspiration+Board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Sqe5B5Ubrx0/TiWN2nZ9kAI/AAAAAAAAA-o/JzdEiGcZ7-4/s640/Nature+Inspiration+Board.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Products clockwise from top left: Any outdoor bride must remember sun protection! Stay chic with cute sunglasses by <a href="http://j.crew/">J.Crew</a>. Arrive on your honeymood in style with this canary suitcase (<a href="http://j.crew/">J.Crew</a>). Make a statement with plum heels under your dress (<a href="http://j.crew/">J.Crew</a>). Put nature on your table with topiary centerpieces and placecard holders. Carry a bouquet of colorful wildflowers. Bridesmaids can don a lovely moss green frock (<a href="http://j.crew/">J.Crew</a>). Create a custom logo in your wedding colors. Let guest cool off during your ceremony with a natural woven fan. Have a sunny cake for a pop of color. Instead of a long veil, go for a more practical birdcage veil that won't blow away in the wind, such as this one from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a>. Use a plum lip tint for a natural, flushed appearance (by Fresh, available at <a href="http://www.sephora.com/">Sephora</a>). Go green with pretty invites printed on recycled paper!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet,'Trebuchet MS',Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><a class="a2a_dd" href="http://www.addtoany.com/share_save#url=http%3A%2F%2Facapecodbride.blogspot.com%2F&title=A%20Cape%20Cod%20Bride&description=" style="color: #e1771e; text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="Share/Bookmark" border="0" height="16" src="http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_171_16.png" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(225, 119, 30); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 0pt; border-color: initial; border-left-color: rgb(225, 119, 30); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 0pt; border-right-color: rgb(225, 119, 30); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 0pt; border-style: initial; border-top-color: rgb(225, 119, 30); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 0pt; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-top: 4px;" width="171" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-10174895611785695672011-07-15T18:58:00.009-05:002011-07-15T19:04:49.522-05:00A Pink PaletteMuch to my dismay, I am almost out of my favorite perfume, Flowerbomb (which I of course wore on my wedding day). So I decided to turn my obsession with this pink perfume into an inspiration board for all you brides. This board combines a few of my favorite things (J.Crew, peonies, candy, and horses).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lwdcHZpkJQI/TiDT3H37qTI/AAAAAAAAA98/lRz6X5BDBes/s1600/Pink+Palette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lwdcHZpkJQI/TiDT3H37qTI/AAAAAAAAA98/lRz6X5BDBes/s640/Pink+Palette.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Happy weekend everyone!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Trebuchet, 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><a class="a2a_dd" href="http://www.addtoany.com/share_save#url=http%3A%2F%2Facapecodbride.blogspot.com%2F&title=A%20Cape%20Cod%20Bride&description=" style="color: #e1771e; text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="Share/Bookmark" border="0" height="16" src="http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_171_16.png" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(225, 119, 30); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 0pt; border-color: initial; border-left-color: rgb(225, 119, 30); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 0pt; border-right-color: rgb(225, 119, 30); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 0pt; border-style: initial; border-top-color: rgb(225, 119, 30); border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 0pt; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 4px; padding-right: 4px; padding-top: 4px;" width="171" /></a></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-87237703998438286972011-07-14T15:50:00.001-05:002011-07-14T15:51:54.219-05:00Hello Again!I'm sure my readers probably thought I had given up on this blog. Perhaps part of me had. But I decided that this is the only thing in my life that allows me to express and explore my creative side. So I'm not going to give it up! I plan to return with more posts to inspire all you future brides!<br />
<br />
In the meantime, I wanted to share with you some tidbits that might help those of you who a) are chronic worrywarts like myself b) have just turned into one since getting engaged or c) can officially label yourself a bridezilla :)<br />
<br />
Here is what I've learned in my absence:<br />
<ul><li>I know everyone says it, but the marriage is much more important than the wedding day! As much as you are stressing about centerpieces and stationary, try to accept the fact that it won't be perfect, but that's what will make it memorable.</li>
<li>I miss creative blogging. Looking at pictures of pretty things is very relaxing and a good form of stress relief. So current bridal bloggers - don't feel bad about spending so much time blogging/swooning over wedding collages!</li>
<li>I realized that blogging doesn't have to be all or nothing. I used to be obsessed with ideas for my next post and felt like I constantly had to be an "idea machine." Now I realize it's ok to blog less frequently whenever I'm feeling inspired. </li>
<li>Nostalgia is nice. I'm glad I created this blog about a major life event. I'm happy I have something tangible that allows me to look back on my journey and reminisce. I think you will feel the same way after your wedding. </li>
<li>Wedding blogs are like a built in support group. Having a group of women to commisserate with over inane wedding details that no one else cares about is a great form of therapy. The fact that most ladies manage to stay interesting, funny, and kind while planning a wedding is the best reason I can think of to keep blogging!</li>
</ul>So to those of you who have gotten married since my last post one year ago - congrats!!! And to the rest - don't stop following wedding blogs, they will help keep you sane :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-10447622051877848042010-06-18T15:25:00.000-05:002010-06-18T15:25:28.360-05:00Wedding Recaps: Gettin' Ready - The Dress!So I'm finally getting around to more wedding recaps. Though I've already revealed the wedding dress I bought in a <a href="http://acapecodbride.blogspot.com/2009/12/dress-reveal.html">post </a>prior to my wedding, here are some actual pictures of me in my dress!<br />
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All photographs by the talented Seth Kammueller of Chicago. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/TBvT0RygjoI/AAAAAAAAA3k/kNQDgod_ogo/s1600/20572_880504215339_811741_50017367_4307289_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/TBvT0RygjoI/AAAAAAAAA3k/kNQDgod_ogo/s640/20572_880504215339_811741_50017367_4307289_n.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> My sis painstakingly buttoning the back of my dress (using a crochet hook, which was the best advice EVER) while I wait, slightly chilly! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/TBvUX6PuBuI/AAAAAAAAA3s/dxZxhscnrQI/s1600/20572_880504255259_811741_50017369_5495094_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/TBvUX6PuBuI/AAAAAAAAA3s/dxZxhscnrQI/s640/20572_880504255259_811741_50017369_5495094_n.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Still gettin' buttoned up!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/TBvUa0H4HTI/AAAAAAAAA4E/hG9kGZz5kq8/s1600/20572_880504225319_811741_50017368_3854526_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/TBvUa0H4HTI/AAAAAAAAA4E/hG9kGZz5kq8/s640/20572_880504225319_811741_50017368_3854526_n.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Random artsy shot, not sure what I'm doing :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/TBvU1UUs6oI/AAAAAAAAA4M/jmP6AZsou20/s1600/20572_880504295179_811741_50017370_6409188_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/TBvU1UUs6oI/AAAAAAAAA4M/jmP6AZsou20/s400/20572_880504295179_811741_50017370_6409188_n.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">My amazing hairstylist Jess helping me with my veil<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/TBvUYgByKUI/AAAAAAAAA30/4v1YhSfSevc/s1600/20572_880504375019_811741_50017373_7510179_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/TBvUYgByKUI/AAAAAAAAA30/4v1YhSfSevc/s640/20572_880504375019_811741_50017373_7510179_n.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>Finding the bustle on the veil. It was a small flower!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/TBvUZoQCKgI/AAAAAAAAA38/_4GbTCYQL74/s1600/20572_880504394979_811741_50017374_5969135_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/TBvUZoQCKgI/AAAAAAAAA38/_4GbTCYQL74/s640/20572_880504394979_811741_50017374_5969135_n.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>Ready to go get hitched!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Brides, what was your getting ready process like? If you are still engaged, how do you envision the morning before your wedding?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Stay tuned for more wedding recaps and dress pics!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a class="a2a_dd" href="http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkname=A%20Cape%20Cod%20Bride&linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Facapecodbride.blogspot.com%2F"><img alt="Share/Bookmark" border="0" height="16" src="http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_171_16.png" style="border-width: 0pt;" width="171" /></a><script type="text/javascript">
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybWEABoDk5oXmcz9uiTc0ZUXvB4FlECcHwXMRoXoCQG_qpuxDL7EwY-4C34IMwBw0G1JhlzMKBlgMu1kl79bFyD1eEup47nMvbm7T3r5KuFENfB4Ql_CWvUOyMBGa0aH7SB7raDxir2hi/s1600/4370412711_39c67040ae_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiybWEABoDk5oXmcz9uiTc0ZUXvB4FlECcHwXMRoXoCQG_qpuxDL7EwY-4C34IMwBw0G1JhlzMKBlgMu1kl79bFyD1eEup47nMvbm7T3r5KuFENfB4Ql_CWvUOyMBGa0aH7SB7raDxir2hi/s640/4370412711_39c67040ae_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This is a beach wedding invitation that arrived in the bottle pictured above. Wouldn't it be perfect for a Cape Cod Wedding? I love how this is a spin on the traditional "message in a bottle" theme by sending it in a vintage Coca-Cola bottle. I also love the detail that the bride and groom lined the bottle with local sand</span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">to get guests geared up for their wedding day!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">What are you doing for your STD's and invitations? Do you have any creative ideas for sending out something quirky and fun, or are you going the traditional route (as I did)?</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a class="a2a_dd" href="http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkname=A%20Cape%20Cod%20Bride&linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Facapecodbride.blogspot.com%2F"><img alt="Share/Bookmark" border="0" height="16" src="http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_171_16.png" style="border-width: 0pt;" width="171" /></a> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-74223180534409311992010-04-29T10:02:00.000-05:002010-04-29T10:02:42.174-05:00Rustic Wedding Inspiration: Wine Barrels!<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">A friend of mine from grad school and I were recently discussing her vision for her fall 2011 Chicago nuptials. She told me about the perfect venue she'd found, which she described as beautiful and full of "rustic romance." I too, adore weddings with rustic elegance, </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">which got me thinking about how to further incoporate this idea into a wedding theme.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">When I recently came across a great way to include wine into this theme, via my favorite wine brand, <a href="http://redtruckwine.com/">Red Truck</a> (see related </span><a href="http://thelovelynester.blogspot.com/2010/04/cruelty-free-alcohol.html"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">post </span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">over at my other blog, </span><a href="http://thelovelynester.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The Lovely Nester</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">), I knew I just had to share it with the masses. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Red truck winery sells barrels of their most popular wines, which hold appoximately 4 bottles of wine. The wooden keg is so charming, that I knew it would make a fabulous centerpiece on each reception table. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJaTQhuCVPJVlBNB5fYa4AA5OkTjePX8KQh6NvgEPoSuo5AK2ae1_HENXAd2loD2GdHakkaLU8Eu5L-8kW7fq6NOldDaTCZd_RpSxqmfq2G1KA_5IDBbS7a7he4eJwejnL39wP70nyzZ8/s1600/n124574850231_6264739_7423089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJaTQhuCVPJVlBNB5fYa4AA5OkTjePX8KQh6NvgEPoSuo5AK2ae1_HENXAd2loD2GdHakkaLU8Eu5L-8kW7fq6NOldDaTCZd_RpSxqmfq2G1KA_5IDBbS7a7he4eJwejnL39wP70nyzZ8/s400/n124574850231_6264739_7423089.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Another reason to buy Red Truck wine is its affordability, which is important to any budget-minded bride, as well all know that alcohol costs can eat a large chunk of your funds. Most of their bottles cost around $10, and when you buy a barrel, the price drops to about $7. How great would it be to get one barrel of white and one barrel of red for each table, and allow guests to serve themselves from the spout?</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRX5kzwvh41TrF0ajY2-GQBt1-t605MuEmlR1VBS3fXcazpx__bPRt9Q1d9wFGdWKUuCgxjEpgoWTxqDcUYcNGjfhdAWb37pc0XIF0mWwyeUeeLCpIDjd54DW1wL4cQXhlEmg7O_VQvgRJ/s1600/n124574850231_6264740_3031874.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRX5kzwvh41TrF0ajY2-GQBt1-t605MuEmlR1VBS3fXcazpx__bPRt9Q1d9wFGdWKUuCgxjEpgoWTxqDcUYcNGjfhdAWb37pc0XIF0mWwyeUeeLCpIDjd54DW1wL4cQXhlEmg7O_VQvgRJ/s400/n124574850231_6264740_3031874.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">One of the best reasons, though, is that Red Truck strives to be an environmentally friendly company. All of their wines are certified vegan, meaning that no animal products are used during the filtration process (yes, that really happens!). Furthermore, they recently launched a new line of exclusive organic wines, called Green Truck. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S9XrVuPDYAI/AAAAAAAAA2A/duF2WDG3FWQ/s1600/Green.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S9XrVuPDYAI/AAAAAAAAA2A/duF2WDG3FWQ/s200/Green.jpg" tt="true" width="170" /></a></div><br />
And, if you still need further inspiration of how the wine barrel would fit perfectly with a vineyard wedding, check out this inspiration board, courtesy of <a href="http://stylemepretty.com/">Style Me Pretty</a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S9YaGyCa1zI/AAAAAAAAA2Y/BSCTC6v2ri8/s1600/details1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S9YaGyCa1zI/AAAAAAAAA2Y/BSCTC6v2ri8/s640/details1.jpg" width="304" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a class="a2a_dd" href="http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkname=A%20Cape%20Cod%20Bride&linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Facapecodbride.blogspot.com%2F"><img alt="Share/Bookmark" border="0" height="16" src="http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_171_16.png" style="border-width: 0pt;" width="171" /></a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-60198448320571838242010-04-26T13:11:00.004-05:002010-04-26T13:21:03.610-05:00Vendor I (literally) Heart: Stories of Gen<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">This time, my featured vendor is very near and dear to me, as she is my new sister-in-law! Let me explain:</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">I don't know about you, but as the bride, I made the majority of the wedding decisions and would consult with Cape Cod Groom for his approval. But since I wanted Cape Cod Groom to have some aspects of the wedding that were his decision (and take a few things off my plate!), one of the tasks on his to-do list was to choose the gifts for the groomsmen. Now, I will admit that this was a challenging task, as it's always easier to find pretty things for bridesmaids, so I was not surprised when he turned to our SIL, the creative mind behind <a href="http://www.storiesofgen.com/">Stories of Gen</a> for assistance. </div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Our SIL started Stories of Gen to create a unique gift giving service to suit any budget. You provide her with the details on who, what, where, why, and how much you want to spend, and she will send you at least 3 fantastic finds from which to choose. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In our case, we were looking for attendant gifts for two very different groomsmen. One was a bachelor in his early 20's, the other a married father. Neither would have been into the traditional monogrammed flask. Stories of Gen found the perfect gifts for both, and since Cape Cod Groom waited until the last minute, she was even able to ship everything to us in time, in stylish packaging no less. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">For my cousin, the young bachelor, she found this hip wallet, made of recycled seatbelts (courtesy of interrobang)! </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S9SuvelkltI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/Ue9e4-QmGJI/s1600/wallet2_full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S9SuvelkltI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/Ue9e4-QmGJI/s400/wallet2_full.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><br />
For the best man, she found these Chicago Transit cufflinks, to remind him of his hometown now that he's relocated to Atlanta:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S9SvA0RVtxI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/PkaCpgynyss/s1600/il_430xN.138693915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S9SvA0RVtxI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/PkaCpgynyss/s400/il_430xN.138693915.jpg" width="398" /></a></div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Overall, our Groomsmen could not have been happier with their gifts, and we were thrilled with Stories of Gen's unique and tasteful choices!</span><br />
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<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;">With wedding season quickly approaching, I highly recommend you <a href="http://www.storiesofgen.com/contact.html">contact</a> her for all of your attendant gift needs. She also does gifts for any occasion, so don't forget to do something extra special for your parents for Mother's and Father's Day as well (especially if they are helping you out with your wedding)!</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Finally, if you are going to be a guest at a wedding and want to give the lucky couple something unexpected, or are attending a wedding without a registry and have no idea what to purchase, here are some really cute items she has found for the bride & groom:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">My personal fave, a customized silhouette of the couple: </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S9SweZ9wwBI/AAAAAAAAA0g/4VnfFiNmTCM/s1600/silhouette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S9SweZ9wwBI/AAAAAAAAA0g/4VnfFiNmTCM/s400/silhouette.jpg" width="322" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',sans-serif; text-align: left;">Solar powered birdhouse to adorn the newlywed's home:</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S9Swh-xERhI/AAAAAAAAA0w/4wW3oymIIrs/s1600/solarbirdhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S9Swh-xERhI/AAAAAAAAA0w/4wW3oymIIrs/s320/solarbirdhouse.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Love jar, also perfect for DIY wedding sand ceremonies!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S9SwftDbQMI/AAAAAAAAA0o/6JR4ASpXFQo/s1600/lovejar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S9SwftDbQMI/AAAAAAAAA0o/6JR4ASpXFQo/s320/lovejar.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a class="a2a_dd" href="http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkname=A%20Cape%20Cod%20Bride&linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Facapecodbride.blogspot.com%2F"><img alt="Share/Bookmark" border="0" height="16" src="http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_171_16.png" style="border-bottom-width: 0pt; border-left-width: 0pt; border-right-width: 0pt; border-top-width: 0pt;" width="171" /></a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-53814106963672776872010-04-25T15:43:00.000-05:002010-04-25T15:43:59.809-05:00Wedding Season Oh'Ten!<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Sorry it's been so long since my last post folks. Turns out this grad school thing is hard work! Ok, I already should have known that since I'm in my 4th year, but it's the end of the semester, which equal finals time (boo!). I have some ideas for great posts in my head though, which I promise to churn out soon. </div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">On the plus side, wedding season is near! I want to give a special shout-out to my friend <a href="http://acupcakewedding.blogspot.com/">Cupcake Wedding</a>, whose wedding will be my first of the season (we go way back to our liberal arts college days). I cannot wait to attend her nuptials next month in Florida and rock out with her!</span><br />
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<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">My hubby and I have reserved our hotel room, purchased our plane tickets, and I recently ordered her gifts from her Macy's registry. We are pretty much all set to go (still need to get a rental car), and I purchased this pretty ditty from J.Crew to wear on the big day, which I'm gonna glam up with accessories:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S9Sn5XiKenI/AAAAAAAAA0I/fRlJ2T3L4Yc/s1600/erez.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S9Sn5XiKenI/AAAAAAAAA0I/fRlJ2T3L4Yc/s400/erez.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">To me the dress is perfect for her wedding as it's bright, pink, and fun, themes I know her wedding is all about. I still have to buy a killer outfit for her bachelorette party pub crawl, though, which gives me a great excuse to go shopping soon!</span> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I'll certainly need some retail therapy after the end of finals!</span><br />
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</div><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Do you have lots of weddings to attend this season? Which one are you most excited about?</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-13473177885974104882010-03-18T09:22:00.001-05:002010-03-18T09:23:52.709-05:00Premarial Counseling - A Must?Now that Cape Cod Groom and I are married, I've begun to look back at our wedding process and reminisce. One element of our ride to the altar that I have been pondering, but never blogged about before, was our marriage classes.<br />
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Because we were getting married by my father at the church I grew up at on Cape Cod, we did not do premarital counseling with him since that would be downright akward. But, it was important to my MIL that we take marriage classes at the church where my husband was raised. Initially I was not looking forward to the classes. I felt that as a couple, we already had very good communication and the capability to do so maturely in the event of future disagreements. Plus, as a therapist myself, I have experience with counseling couples, so I felt I already knew the "basics" of couples counseling and could implement these skills in my own relationship.<br />
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That being said, I acquiesced and enrolled in the classes (they were public, not one therapist per couple) because it was important to my husband's family. Although I won't go into details about the classes here, the gist of them was that each class had a lecture, often by a married couple, about their relationship and what we could learn from their trials and tribulations. While I did not always agree with their perspective, the class was useful because afterward on the drive home, my then-fiance and I would compare our thoughts on the class, the couple that taught, and communicate about our views and beliefs. And it was nice to learn that we nearly always agreed with each other on the important issues (perhaps that is why we were getting married, LOL)! <br />
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Overall, I think that it is beneficial and important for all engaged couples to do some sort of exploratory counseling before their wedding. If you are not getting married in a church or a place that provides these services, I would recommend going to an independent therapist if you have health insurance. Most health insurance policies cover a select number of counseling sessions per year (usually 6-12), so why not use them if you have them? If you are on Medicaid, you can also find clinics that accept that as well.<br />
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Finally, if you are uninsured, or just want to learn more about your partner or work through any relationship issues on your own, I recommend a great book by Dr. John Gottman called the <a href="http://search.barnesandnoble.com/booksearch/isbnInquiry.asp?r=1&ISBN=9780609899533&ourl=The-Seven-Principles-for-Making-Marriage-Work%2FJohn-M-Gottman&cm_mmc=Google%20Product%20Search-_-Q000000630-_-The%20Seven%20Principles%20for%20Making%20Marriage%20Work-_-9780609899533">Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work</a> (click link for image source). It is an easy to read, practical book about relationship advice, and even includes a fun and comprehensive quiz about how well you know your partner!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S6Ix0Xd5a8I/AAAAAAAAAz4/BOaAFoj8zVE/s1600-h/seven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S6Ix0Xd5a8I/AAAAAAAAAz4/BOaAFoj8zVE/s400/seven.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><br />
Are you and your fiance taking any sort of premarital counseling? If so, has it been helpful for you? Do you think it is something all couples should engage in prior to their wedding?<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a class="a2a_dd" href="http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkname=A%20Cape%20Cod%20Bride&linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Facapecodbride.blogspot.com%2F"><img alt="Share/Bookmark" border="0" height="16" src="http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_171_16.png" style="border-width: 0pt;" width="171" /></a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3839153688845540894.post-20761838202592814482010-03-17T08:29:00.001-05:002010-03-17T08:38:28.438-05:00A Word of Advice: Stranger Danger!<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I have learned a very important lesson about financial security while planning a wedding, and I think it's important enough to share with everyone. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">When my then-fiance and I decided to start making wedding related purchases, we decided, at the suggestion of Cape Cod Groom, to open a new credit card in both of our names. This was exciting because not only did it signify I could start making wedding purchases, but it was also our very first joint account of any type! We agreed that all major wedding related purchases would be made using solely this credit card. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S03kSVtQOMI/AAAAAAAAAtY/Oo-kGye6O70/s1600-h/credit-card-main_Full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_0tWr5rZ1x18/S03kSVtQOMI/AAAAAAAAAtY/Oo-kGye6O70/s400/credit-card-main_Full.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://blogs.southtownstar.com/money/credit-card-main_Full.jpg&imgrefurl=http://blogs.southtownstar.com/money/suckers/&usg=__RpMYwIWQ0e0lTC4G2OMli6gGxJM=&h=380&w=425&sz=28&hl=en&start=5&um=1&tbnid=ddhLa1AhHfZyZM:&tbnh=113&tbnw=126&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dcredit%2Bcard%2Bimage%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26sa%3DN%26um%3D1"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Image Source</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">For Cape Cod Groom, though, the importance of having a credit card was not so much about having a shared account. While that was a perk that streamlined our wedding purchases and made it easier for both of us to keep track of our spending and budget, </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">to him, a credit card signified something that I did not have the foresight to think of: insurance. </span></div><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">You see, when you book a wedding vendor, you are mostly doing so on faith. While you may research a vendor to the best of your abilities to make sure they are credible, vendors are still people, and they are people who are usually total strangers to you. That being said, the potential for scams does exist. If you pay someone with cash or check and it ends up being a scam, there is nothing you can do about it. Once your hard earned cash is spent by the vendor, your money is gone forever, unless you embark on the burdensome and expensive route of litigation. </span><br />
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<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Therefore, to avoid the hazard of getting scammed, either when planning a wedding or making any large purchase, it is always best to pay with a credit card. That is because credit card companies all have a fraud department and carry insurance for these occasions. So if you do have the unfortunate circumstance of being the victim of a scam, you can call the fraud department, explain your story and dispute the charge, and if the credit card company agrees with you, they will refund your money.</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
In my experience, some vendors will insist that you pay by check. If that is the case, this should raise a red flag. Now, I'm not saying by any means that everyone who wants you to pay with cash is a con artist, but I am saying that you should be extremely cautious in this situation. You can try to negotiate with the vendor. Remember that if they really want your business, especially in today's economy, they may also be willing to let you pay by credit card even though that is not their preferred method of payment. <br />
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Unfortunately, I do not think that this is something people often think about when planning their wedding. It is really easy to get caught up in the excitement of booking vendors and planning your big day that you can forget to protect yourself and your groom financially. Also, if you are an optimistic person like me who tends to give people the benefit of the doubt, it can be easy to assume the best in others. Finally, when the victim of a scam, many people are simply not aware of their rights or the fact that they can rely on a credit card company to back them up.<br />
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I'm glad I had Cape Cod Groom to bring a financially wise perspective to our situation. But I am also aware that others may not be so fortunate, so I hope this post will make people stop and think about their options when planning the event of their dreams. With all the stress that goes along with planning a wedding, being the victim of a scam is not something you want to add to your plate.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a class="a2a_dd" href="http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkname=A%20Cape%20Cod%20Bride&linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Facapecodbride.blogspot.com%2F"><img alt="Share/Bookmark" border="0" height="16" src="http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_171_16.png" style="border-width: 0pt;" width="171" /></a> </div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3