Maybe

some advice that I could give... if I were asked... which I wasnt. But this is MY blog and I want to reflect on all of the things that I have learned over the last 17 months...

1. Love your man. Audra taught me this one. It is important to keep your man happy and your relationship strong. Dont make him feel second fiddle to the wedding. It is about the two of you and that is it. Love your man.

2. dont fight with your mother in law. it is just silly. you will be very embarrassed (both of you!) by your actions at the end of the day when you all love each other again. It's pointless.

3. A new found obsession for buffalo wings will not help you get into wedding shape. Neither will sitting around blogging when you should be at spin class.

4. Pick and choose your battles. About one in every 50 is worth even mentioning, even less worth fighting with your man over.

5. Dont talk about weddings all of the time. Its annoying to everyone but you. Your friends will be annoyed (especially the ones who are single), your fiance will be annoyed. Just shut the fuck up sometimes.

6. Know your audience. This one I learned from people not knowing theirs, and me not knowing mine... If you know someone spent a lot of money on their wedding gown, dont tell them how silly you think expensive dresses are (sorry soulmate), especially since eating your words is a tough meal. If you know someone is having 2 showers, and you think it is ridiculous, tell anyone ELSE. The bride does not want to hear about how you did not like her invitations, or that you think she has too many hostesses. Seriously.

7. Use the creative outlet to make you stronger. This wedding has sparked my love for all things lovely. Photography, painting, projects, jewelry, nature, WOOD, my gorgeous hubby! I am crafty, and full of good ideas an it feels SO SO good.

8. Ask for help. I have not done a lot of this, but I did ask my Olympia family for help with one project, and holy moly. It sure is turning out nicely for me. BUT- only ask artistic (or not even artistic, just remotely capable) people for help. Or else you end up with half assed jobs and hidden resentments and it is no bueno.

9. Plan a day that reflects you and your partner. Please other people along the way, but always keep number one in mind. It is a kick off to the rest of your lives! Woo Hoo!