Bridechka and the Wedding

I'm lame but YOU are awesome

2010-03-10T21:56:00.000-05:00

Sorry I have been MIA guys .. life has been a little bit of a whirlwind .. but those days are no more .. I am in full on blog-mode! And it starts with .... our wedding highlight reel!!!

Please to enjoy party people ....

Wedding Highlight Reel from Lena Katsnelson on Vimeo.

SNEAK PEAK!!!!!

2010-02-09T10:10:00.001-05:00

ch-ch-check it out ....

I'm NOT ready!!!

2010-02-01T23:21:00.000-05:00

I am here :)

but I'm not ready ....

I'm not ready to wipe the glitter out of my eyes .. to shake off the magic and recap it all over again ... but I will! I will, very very soon ... there will be recaps, there will photos, there will be stories of the amazing, incredible, awesometatious (yeh its a word .. a word I made up .. but a word nonetheless) day that we had ... day we shared with everyone we loved with all our hearts.

very soon .. I just need a few more days to bask ... but like the big T said .. I'll be back.

Live feed!

2010-01-24T11:00:00.000-05:00

January 24, 2010

2010-01-24T00:25:00.000-05:00

I am getting MARRIED today.

yup .. thats happening. Today.

I love you guys for being on this journey with me .. I cant wait to share the conclusion with you.

See you on the flip side.

I'm back ...

2010-01-21T10:19:00.001-05:00

and still kicking .. sort of.

New Orleans was amazing ... no wait it deserves capitalization ...it was AMAZING!!! And there will be a full recap, very soon ... in the meantime I have settled into a nomadic existence. You see the Big Guy and I have decided not to see each other for the full week before the wedding .. and so I came back from NOLA to settle in with MOH Yevs and today I am heading on over to my parents house for the rest of the week. I did not think about how much a pain in the ass this was going to be but I am sure it will be worth it when I get the butterflies in the belly before seeing the mister again!

In the meantime, this week, we have hit some wedding ... obstacles ... lets say. First, the ketubah that the Big Guy created himself was accidentally tossed by a cleaning crew and he has to make a brand new one all over again (but dont worry Ketubah 2, The Ketubah Strikes Back .. With a Vengeance is wwaaaaaay better than the original, for serious, its awesome). Also, my dress is a smidge too tight ... damn this whole getting married in winter thing when everyone is bigger than we should be! Ahhh also, the dry cleaners put a small tear in my veil, ... yeh its been kind of a funky week ... but I am not really letting any of it bother me ....

What I am thinking about is standing next to the Big Guy under the hoopah ... thats the moment I am waiting for, the moment I can't get out of my head, that's the moment that all of this has been about. It feels in these last days leading up to it, like I am swimming in a huge pool and I dove under water, and its beautiful and peaceful and full of warmth and support but all I am waiting for is to come up for air ... and that's what I anticipate that moment will be like for me ... that first burst of fresh air as I come rushing to the surface.

Sigh ...and its just around the corner!!!

Free tix to Wedding Bootcamp

2010-01-20T11:50:00.001-05:00

Live Feed!

2010-01-15T12:00:00.002-05:00

And now I'm going ....

2010-01-15T07:18:00.000-05:00

here ...

yep, its bachelorette party weekend! And we are going to be partying it up and getting down in New Orleans!

I am completely in the dark on itinerary but if you follow me on twitter, I will try to update as I find stuff out .... now let's just hope my phone works and allows me to keep you all in the loop!

Guess where I went today....

2010-01-13T17:38:00.002-05:00

here ....

need another clue? ok fine .. HERE.

ps: NYC did it up right, our new bureau looks great ... and they even sell bouquets and other wedding accesories to make the experience that much more wedding-y. If your not into the whole big wedding shenanigans .. check, check, check, a check it out.

Better late than never ... My Bridal Shower

2010-01-12T00:49:00.000-05:00

Ok so its been forever but the pics are finally here ... so take a peak .. at my amazing Winter Wonderland Bridal Shower ....

thats my Mamachka's butt, accompanied by my Sisterchka

check the digs people! Snowflakes, white birch, icicles .... loved it!

there was real food too but you know what your girl likes ...

DESSERT!

The favors were super cute .. tiny bags of pine-cone potpourri....

the guests .. waiting around for me ...

I have arrived!

more dessert .. including a make your own hot chocolate, white cotton candy shooters, white rock candy, and my Sisterchka's yummy cupcakes!

This is my hot hot hot Mamachka in her toilet paper wedding gown ... tell the truth... its incredible!

This is my awesome Mother-in-law-to-be-achka .. being such a wonderful sport as my crazy relatives, blindfolded her, put red lipstick on her, and told her to kiss .. this man ....

yep, he's a hotty!

Then it was my turn .. but, little did I know that the Big Guy stepped in for the cardboard man ...

it was a very good surprise! (ps: disregard the crazy outfit it was part of a diff activity .. ok fine I dress that way everyday .. I admit it!)

Yep, quite a nice surprise .. just like our trip to PARIS .. which I absolutely cant wait for!

I cannot even express how incredibly lucky and loved I felt that day! Yevs, Mushy, Sisterchka, Mamachka, Grandmachka (Natachka) who planned it are just the most amazing group of women I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. And everyone who was there, made the day soo special, no words can relate how grateful I am to them.

Thank you ladies .. you rock my socks everyday.

Wedding Task: Favors

2010-01-08T00:55:00.000-05:00

Accomplished!

We decided a long time ago that we would make some sort of charitable contribution for a our favors .. and then a while back we stumbled on the idea of planting a tree in honor of each guest ... but we were still overwhelmed by options. There are so many ways to do it, so many potential companies to go through .... what to do??? Well what we decided to do was research every ingle one until we were blue in the face and then go with the two we liked best (which incidentally happened to be pretty cheap too! Only $1 buys a tree! $1!!!!). We bought half the trees from The Arbor Day Foundation and half from the Nature Conservancy .. yep we are wise like Solomon .. always split that baby people!

Then I hopped, skipped, and clicked on over to VistaPrint to make the cards for each guest letting them know that a tree had been planted for them. Again, I made half representing on organization and half the other. Check the design skills peeps ...

You know like my style! And I bought it through ebates so I even got money back! Woo! I love me a good deal .. (its like chocolate cake or pizza even when its not that good a deal ... its still damn good!)

If you would like to plant trees through The Arbor Day Foundation click here and to plant trees through Nature Conservancy click here.

Our photographer!

2010-01-05T23:54:00.002-05:00

Ok folks its time to reveal ... our wedding photographer!!!! ... We met with some amazing photogs (I will be posting about one particular photog that I thought was also wonderful a little later this week) ... but in the end when you know, you just know and even back in October and November of last year, I knew that I loved Stregoica photography! I posted about Dina over at Stregoica here and here after meeting her at four, count 'em four of my friends weddings!

Wanna see more .... check the flow ...

oh yeh ... this is why she's hot ...

So what do you think folks? Worth the wait?

Ani l'dodi

2010-01-05T12:12:00.001-05:00

I am kinda of in love with this necklace. It says Ani LeDodi V'Dodi Li which transaltes to I am my beloved's and my beloved is mine ... Its also the inscription on the inside of our yarmulkes and a line from the Song of Songs. It is exceptinally meaningful because this phrase and the whole Song of Songs is commonly used in Jewish wedding ceremonies ... its supposed to be an allegory of the love between G-d and the people of Israel, which is most commonly represented as ... you guessed it .. a marriage! G-d is the groom and the people are his bride. I think it would be a lovely gift for a groom to give a bride .. (hint hint Big Guy) ... chock full of tradition and meaning and kinda rockingly beautiful to boot!

Happy New Year!

2009-12-30T11:05:00.002-05:00

And I'm off ....

To MIAMI baby! That's right, I am gonna be spending New Year's Eve partying it up in the sun (I hope!).

But, when I get back, I have so much wedding biz to tell you about ... new vendors (the big photog reveal, I promise!), pictures from my amazing Winter Wonderland shower, and lots of last minute details being strung together by yours truly!

In the meantime .. party hardy .. and have at least one extra drink to the New Year for me! I will see all of you in the new year .. the year I get married!!!

Pearly whites .. revisited

2009-12-28T13:38:00.001-05:00

So remember about my little crush the other day? On this ..

Well it asked me out!! And by asked me out, I mean, I paid for it to come to my home and make me happy .. hmm that sounded wrong but don't worry its totally legal to love a hair piece. But I just had to brag about the fact that I got it at half price! Go check out the clearance they are having on sample pieces at Tigerlilly. Just browse the site and find what you like, then shoot them an email or live chat them asking if they have a sample of it laying around, if they do you get your fabulous piece for half off! They rock. Period.

Can't wait for my date with my newest wedding accessory ... I'll keep you guys posted about how it goes but I have a feeling this is the one .. hey, I was right about the Big Guy!

Merry Christmas folks!

2009-12-24T23:46:00.000-05:00

Hope you are all having wonderful day, whether your celebrating or just enjoying some relaxing time off ... soak it up and have a great weekend!

I will be partaking in a long standing tradition amongst my peoples ... enjoying some chinese food and watching a movie with my friends ... I can't wait!!

See you all Monday .. hopefully a little chubbier, a little happier, and a lot rejuvenated.

Pearly whites

2009-12-22T23:12:00.001-05:00

I am kind of in love with this ...

... in a big way .... like sometimes I look at my phone and I get sad cause I am hoping that this head piece thingy will call me but it hasn't and I keep asking all of my friends if they think it likes me too .. cause you know, its giving me all the signs but it just hasn't asked me out yet ... sigh .... if only it would just come to my doorstep and jump into my hair without me having to pay for it ... what!?!?! A girl can dream cant she???

Found here. Lusted after in my brain.

Winner Time!

2009-12-22T13:44:00.001-05:00

We have a WINNER!

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2009-12-22 18:39:07 UTC

CONGRATS to BRYONY!

I will be in touch shortly with how to claim your prize. Thank you to everyone who participated and to show their thanks Hazel & Harlow is offering all of you 30% off until December 28 .. just use the PromoCode Wedding09. Happy Shopping everyone!

Giveaway ends tonight!

2009-12-21T12:14:00.001-05:00

The Hazel & Harlow giveaway ends tonight so hurry up and enter already. Just click here to go the original post.

The winner will be announced tomorrow morning .. good luck folks!

Wedding Update

2009-12-18T12:34:00.001-05:00

Ok its 37 days and counting people ....

There are still 50 (that is right 50!) people who have not responded to the invites .. umm look there is a stamp on the card, put pen to paper and respond already! Or you know rsvp online .. I think we have made it pretty easy here folks. Phew, ok now thats done .. moving on ...

Tonight is a fun wedding related activity! DANCE CLASS. Not with the Big Guy mind you .. with my dad! He wants to learn a few steps for our father daughter dance .. so tonight we are gonna be learning how to jump, jive, and wail ... or ... how to dance with each other without him swinging me around wildly and dislocating both of my shoulders. But the best part is our instructor is my old dance teacher from when I was 7! Not kidding, he was the man who taught me ballet, modern, jazz, and hip hop for about 8 years! And I have to give credit where credit is due .. my dad thought this whole thing up, located him, and set up the lesson for tonight! Yep, he is pretty bad ass my papa.

Wish me luck blogworld ... we need to turn out a very large 6'4" Russian man into a graceful hoofer .. ok maybe that was the wrong synonym for dancer ... lets go with ... danseur .... I will keep you posted folks.

Thank you thank you

2009-12-17T10:47:00.001-05:00

A big thanks to everyone who left guest book suggestions on my Dilemma post ... I love them all!!! I will let you know what we go with shortly .... in the meantime, if anyone else has any suggestions let me hear em and don't forget to enter the latest giveaway!

ps: check out my latest post on the fabulous Weddzilla Blog (my bridesmaids .. stay away! There are gift spoilers ... come on ladies, it will be more fun if its a surprise! Honor system people .. honor it.)

Pretty pretty GIVEAWAY!!

2009-12-14T23:57:00.000-05:00

It's giveaway time! Todays contest comes to you from Hazel & Harlow ... a wonderful place to get the most incredible unique pieces of jewelry you have ever laid eyes on! And they are giving up this pretty young thing ...

This beautiful piece could be yours! And how??? Well just click HERE and peruse the fab Hazel and Harlow website ... then come back here and tell me what your favorite piece is. It is that easy! I will pick a winner at random on Tuesday December 21. Click, look, comment and win .. yep I make it easy for ya.

PS: There will be a consolation prize for those of you who don't win (it will be good!)

Dilemma

2009-12-14T12:53:00.001-05:00

Ok blogworld .. I need your help!

I want to have a guestbook for folks to sign and that I can keep and gaze upon fondly (that one time) and think about all the awesome people we had celebrating this amazing day with us .... you know what I mean, yes??

But, I am stuck in terms of what to do.. there are so many great options .. photobooks, classic guestbooks, silver platters for people to scribble on, little notes hung up on strings, pieces of fabric to make into a quilt ... the list is just endless!

So, here is where you come in... tell me everything people .. what did you do? what are you planning on doing? what have you seen others do? what where the pros and cons???

And as a reward for being so awesome and for reading an entire post without a single picture in it (I'm cruel, so sue me), tomorrow we will be having a fabulous giveaway .. I promise!

Thanks for help folks! You know your girl needs it .. 41 days and counting! ahh!

Manly gift ... space age style

2009-12-09T11:09:00.000-05:00

Got a man in your life who needs some lovin, in the form of techy goodness .. then have I got the gift idea for you. Check out the iWallet. Its a fancy pantsy wallet that only opens if it recognizes your fingerprint. How bad ass is that?

Its pricey but so damn cool. Found on Thrillist and coveted by me!

PS: this could total be a gift for a chic too! I just find that most of the women I kow prefer large wallets and are also not as easily amused by the wonders of technology .. at least not as easily amused by them as me.

My SHOWER

2009-12-08T14:33:00.001-05:00

I had my surprise shower on Sunday!!!

It was amazing ... but until I have pics, I can't trully SHOW you how amzing it was .... and let me tell you .. it was slammin!

Ok fine! A few tidbits ... the theme was winter wonderland, the games were hilarious, there was no registry ... so everyone chipped in and got us a mini-moon (since we didn't plan a honeymoon for ourselves) and the minimoon is seriously off the chain ... we are going to PARIS. Read that again. Ok, you back? Yep thats right PARIS ... now can I assume you can rest assured that my friends and family rock beyond all comprehension .. they are just incredible.

more details to come, I promise.

Seriously. PARIS. Ok now, I'm done for real ... wait no, one more exclamation .. YAY!!!

Dissappointed

2009-12-03T09:28:00.001-05:00

Trully disappointed in my state. Let's set aside, unconstitutional, discriminatroy, and unjust, although the decision is all of those things, its really, also, just plain sad.

Je N'est Pas Une Candy Bar

2009-12-02T11:46:00.001-05:00

I have a problem .. I like to buy things. I know, I am not the only poor soul afflicted with this disorder, I see you sneekily looking around and giving me mental high fives for our shared desire to throw money out the window ... oh wait no, its just me? Ok fine. Well in any case ... I am pretty sure I know what our favors are gonna be .... very likely we will be going with this idea, I posted about a while ago. But I keep seeing other cute stuff I wanna give to our guests too. Like what about a bowl of these goodies for them to grab and munch on as they exist the premises ...

A little chocolate to nosh on as they head home (hopefully from the best party ever!). I saw them on Westport Favor Company for only $0.60 each! Cute right?? Or am I just looking for more things to spend money on. I can't tell. And the wedds can sort of morph your brain into a device that is constantly telling you how much you need all kinds of stuff you really dont need, you feel me?

Your thoughts my dear bloggy friends?

PS: I am having some not-so-secret jealous pangs for a candy bar .. but we just can't afford it ... so this might be my way of soothing that longing. Ok enough of my justifications. Jury, do your worst ... or your best...

Last chance to win ...

2009-11-30T06:56:00.001-05:00

Hey folks today is your last chance to WIN big from B. Joyful Invitations ... check out the details below and good luck!

Sets Include:

* 100 Beautiful Wedding Invitations

* 100 Lined Inner Invitation Envelopes

* 100 Outer Invitation Envelopes, printed with return address

* 100 Response Cards

* 100 Printed Response Card Envelopes

* 25 Extra Outer Invitation Envelopes, printed with return address

* All Entrants win 50 Free Bridal Shower Thank You Notes!

One winner will be drawn and notified December 1, 2009.

Just click here to go to the B. Joyful Invitations site and enter the contest.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T09:00:00.012-05:00

Today when we are filling our bellies and giving thanks, I just want to say ....

to YOU!! I can't believe how wonderful this little venture of mine has turned out. The fact that you guys read this blog fills my heart and makes me grateful to you every single day. Thank you for accompanying me on this journey .. I couldn't and can't do it without you.

Enjoy the holiday!

And as always ... thank you.

I am a baddy

2009-11-24T22:45:00.000-05:00

I promised you big news today but I can't provide it cause .... cause it didnt happen today ... and you know how careful I am .. I don't report to you guys until it is signed, sealed, and delivered ... so I am going to have to keep you in suspense for a little while longer.... not long though I promise!

Ooooh but I did find some kind awesome wedding hair inspiration ... this is what I want my hair to look like on the weds, fancy and polished but loose and chic .... check it ...

Source

Hello pretty blonde lady ... can you dye your hair brown ... and then put it on my head please!! Thank you .. I'll be expecting it in the mail shortly.

Nothing new to report

2009-11-22T22:53:00.000-05:00

Well, nothing new today that is .. but tomorrow ... I will be back with some big news!

PS: our yarmulkes arrived!! They look awesome! Yay! And I ordered some gifts for my girls .. but I won't be posting them up here .... the spies!... they are everywhere! But I promise to show you pics after I give them out ... you know I love to share everything you guys.

Bridesmaids gifts with purpose

2009-11-18T23:42:00.002-05:00

So, you say you wanna get your girls something pretty, something affordable, something shiny maybe??? Now how about all of that plus charitable and good for other women? Can't be done? .... oh yes, yes we can!

Check out The Breast Cancer Site Store which is chock full of goodies at totally reasonable prices and all of your purchases provide mammograms to women in need. Want some evidence??? Good call counselor ...

Exhibit A - how about some pearls for your girls???

Freshwater Pearl Drop Earrings for only $14.95

Classic Freshwater Pearl Stud Earrings also only $14.95

Freshwater Pearl Necklace with Pink Ribbon Charm $24.95

Exhibit B - ring-a-ding, ding?

Love Knot Ring $7.80, seriously!

Exhibit C - maybe you're into heavy metal?

Sterling Hammered Monolith Necklace & Earrings Set for $24.80

Fulani Wide Cuff Bracelet .... $18.00, yup.

You know I've made my case.

Oh and if your not into the jewelry thing, they have clothes, home products, bags, accessories ... let's face it, they have everything. So what are you waiting for?? Go buy yourself something pretty and help out women in need ... has there ever been a better idea? Answer = nope!

Aren't you lovely ...

2009-11-16T22:21:00.001-05:00

While surfing for some b-maid gift inspiration the other day I happened upon ...

this sweet necklace ...

and this pretty one too ...

How fabulous are these?? Both from Dogeared. You know your girl loves a tree accent on pretty much anything ... and these are just darling. Someone page the Big Guy and let him know I need a little bit of this in my world. Stat.

I am a big winner!

2009-11-12T08:22:00.000-05:00

I WON a pink Breast Cancer Awareness wedding garter from Julianne Smith! I am such a lucky ducky! Julianne makes amazing stuff! Check the merchandise ...

That's another wedding task to mark off the list! Garter = Accomplished. Thanks Julianne!

Purchased yesterday

2009-11-11T19:35:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I got these ....

from ebay .... for 2 dollars each! TWO DOLLARS!

More will become of these, I promise!!! ... but your going to have to wait to see what it is .... I know, I am terrible! But a girl's got keep some mystery, right??

Customized Map Giveaway

2009-11-09T23:34:00.002-05:00

Our invites have gone out and the RSVPs have already started trickling in ... PS: Our RSVPs = hilarious, leaving a message space was the best idea ever! Thanks Leslie!

... ok back on track ... my point: I don't need a custom map ... I want one ... but I dont need one, so I am not entering the

PaperCake Design

Customized Map Giveaway on the Weddzilla blog ... but you should!

Check the handiwork ...

Go. Enter. Now. Seriously.

7

2009-11-09T16:00:00.001-05:00

It's my anniversary = no blogging for me today. Just a yummy dinner with some reminiscing on the side.

Love you Big Guy .. seven years ... and not nearly long enough.

Be back tomorrow with the good stuff.

Online Bouts

2009-11-06T08:14:00.002-05:00

Umm did you know that you can order boutonnieres online? Yeh, people FTD.com sells wedding floral gear! Bouts, centerpieces, corsages, even ring pillows .... And if your looking to save a bit on floral design, ordering some of the floral elements online is a great way to go.

Check out these awesome bouts I found ...

Source

Or this awesome centerpiece...

Source

Wedding Task: Videographer

2009-11-04T18:54:00.000-05:00

Accomplished!

Check out the deets on my post over at the Weddzilla blog.

I need this in my life ...

2009-11-03T07:47:00.001-05:00

Ok quick wedding break ...

I want this.

No, I am not a drug addict! It a Molecular Gastronomy kit! Think about all the foams and bizarre caviars I could make! I have always been more science geek than anything else!

Ok back to weddings ... we sent out our invites yesterday! And tomorrow, I'll tell you about yet another wedding task we have accomplished!

Wedding Task: Florist

2009-11-02T00:45:00.000-05:00

Accomplished!

Yep, thats right folks .. we booked our florist! The super cool, super creative, super floral dude that is .....

James Abel Events

The brains behind these beautiful blooms ...

For more for his work check his site or SMP where he has been featured a number of times.

James made us an offer we just could not refuse .. including a chuppah, high and low centerpieces, bouquets, boutonnieres, flowers for cocktail hour, even arrangements for the bathrooms! And for a price that actually worked in our budget, right from the start, no haggling or arguing! I know, its unheard of!

You know your girl is always ready to hussle in this wedding game .. but to tell you the truth, when everything goes nice and smoothly lie it did with James ... it such a relief! And it def makes these countless wedding decisions soo much easier!

One more thing to check off that long list of wedding to-dos! ... I love it when a plan comes together.

Have a great weekend!

2009-10-30T09:20:00.001-04:00

Happy Halloween! Be safe party people! I will be back on Monday with a big big update .... curious? Good. MWAHAHAHAHAHA!

Complimentary Wedding Salon Tickets

2009-10-29T09:39:00.001-04:00

I'll be there! And now you can too ... and for FREE!

They're giving them away
2 Tickets
Wedding Salon

Wedding Task: Yarmulkes

2009-10-28T08:17:00.000-04:00

Accomplished!

Wanna see the whole scoop? Hop on over to my post about it on the Weddzilla blog.

Vistaprint Savings!

2009-10-28T07:48:00.000-04:00

Sad you didn't win the Vistaprint giveaway?? Well cheer up! Click here for major savings on all things wedding from the fabulous folks over at Vistaprint. The link will be up in my sidebar too.

What's with the hat-echki? (Celebrity Guest post)

2009-10-27T08:08:00.000-04:00

Big Guy here - hacking into Bridechka's computer to take over the blogging duties for the moment . . . Please to enjoy:

On Yarmulkes ...
Whether it be for social protest or simple divine reverence, Jews the world over wear skullcaps as part of their religious practice and/or everyday life. Now, I know what you're thinking . . . "Self," you think, "Skullcap! That sounds bad ass! How cool must they be?"

Well . . . perhaps only the Britons thought that way, since in most other languages, the name for the head covering is derived from its dome like appearance. In Hebrew, it is called a kippah (plural: kippot) which means "dome." In French they are referred to as calotte (meaning "dome"), in Italian, calotta (meaning "dome", sense a theme, yet?), and in Arabic, they are not referred to at all . . . no I keed! ... the kippah is similar to the Muslim kufi or taqiyah.

However, it's the Yiddish term for skullcaps that gives insight into what they are and why Jews wear them. In Yiddish, a kippah is referred to as yarmulke, pronounced as if it were something completely different: ya-mick-ah . . . 'cause you know, we're a difficult and obstinate people. Though I don't know if its completely true, the peeps over at wikipedia claim that, perhaps, yarmulke is derived from the Aramaic term yarei malka, meaning "fear of the King," in reference of course, to the Bigger Guy (Biggest Guy, perhaps?).

In general, religious Jewish men (and women, in some modern Jewish communities) wear a yarmulke (or a "yam" as the cool kids call it) at all times as recognition of G-D's presence everywhere even in the blogosphere; however, the only time that a yam is mandated by Jewish law, is during prayer.

So you're now thinking, "I want Bridechka back . . . she talks about weddings and cool stuff. This Big Guy character, while very funny and very handsome, is too self indulgent and I don't know why he's talking about little hats?" Well, here's were it all comes together - it is a tradition at big Jewish life cycle events, from circumcision to bar or bat mitzvah to weddings, to order personalized yarmulkes to commemorate the event. Typically the kippot are inscribed with the names of the bride and groom, the date, and either a message or a Scriptural quote.

While it may not be your custom or even your religion, it is a sign of respect for bride and groom and their family to wear a kippah during the religious ceremony part of the Jewish wedding . . . luckily, this usually doesn't last long, as Jewish wedding ceremonies are pretty short (everyone breathe a sigh of relief!). Tomorrow, Bridechka will be back (I promise!) and will give you guys the details on our yams, what they look, like, where they are coming from, and what they are going to say ... I am here in purely academic position.

Well I think I've taught everyone a valuable lesson here . . . never let Bridechka pass the blogging duty off to anyone . . . ever again!

White Knot

2009-10-25T23:58:00.002-04:00

And now we take a brief wedding planning breather to talk about the White Knot.

I spotted this on Savoir and knew that I had to have it .. and share with you of course!

The White Knot is the symbol for marriage equality. Wear it (on your person or on your blog!) to show your support and to create conversation. Use it to tell someone today that equal rights are important to everyone. Share the White Knot and spread the word that all loving couples deserve the same legal rights, benefits, and respect that civil marriage bestows.

Tomorrow back with our regular programming ... including explaining the yarmulke, narrowing down a florist, picking tie colors, our tasting, and all the other wedding minutiae that happened in the past week. I am gonna tackle this to do list yet!

We have a WINNER!

2009-10-23T19:27:00.004-04:00

A big thank you to Vistaprint for this fabulous giveaway!
And the winner is ...

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2009-10-23 23:23:42 UTC

JULIE

Congrats Julie! Email me to find out how to claim your prize!!

And to everyone who entered ... I promise to give you ALL a consolation prize very soon!

Giveaway reminder!

2009-10-21T23:04:00.000-04:00

Don't forget to enter my latest giveaway ... click here to see what its about and enter!

Bad blogger! Whatchya gonna do?

2009-10-20T22:57:00.000-04:00

I've been a baddy! Not posting for two straight days! This whole being a lawyer thing is harder than I thought! But in the meantime, the wedding planning has been progressing along....

Things we have gotten done:
We met with two florists this weekend (who I LOVED! Never thought I would say that! No really, both were awesome) and we're going to see another two next weekend.

We picked yarmulke colors for the wedding! A yarmulke or kippah is a traditional head-cover that is usually worn by Jewish men .. although sometimes women too depending on their traditions, beliefs, personal feelings, etc... I will tell you more about this later this week.

We received our invites! They are AWESOME (thanks Leslie!)

And we set up appointments to talk to some photogs next week.

Phew ... yep, this whole wedding thing is gonna happen! One way or another ...

And to make up for being a baddy this week I leave you with a deal from Wedding Channel

Enter code & receive 10% off your online order of $85 or more @ wedding channel

Coupon code: COUPONCABIN10 .... Expires Dec 21st

Vistaprint Giveaway

2009-10-16T00:10:00.001-04:00

Have I mentioned that I heart Vistaprint? I do!

Remember the save the dates I had made on Vista? Check em here.

They are the awesome printing company where you can get almost anything made ... custom invites, save the dates, magnets, programs, thank you cards, envelopes, return addresses stickers, and a bunch of other stuff .... Oh and if your a in a rush ... no worries! Cause Vistaprint can ship orders for delivery in 3 business days.

Now they just became exponentially cooler .. because they are offering for FREE ...

100 Save the Dates OR Invitations OR Thank You Cards OR some combination
(e.g. 50 of one and 50 of another ... or 25, 25, and 50 ... or 30, 60, and 10!)

Just leave a comment here telling me which prize you would pick and how you would use it! I will pick a winner at random next Friday.

Get to it people!

Letter

2009-10-15T07:53:00.000-04:00

Dear Wedding-To-Do List,

Get smaller!

Love,
Bridechka

PS: While your at it, could you have a talk with Work-To-Do-List? He is really getting out of hand lately! Thanks! Xoxo!

When it rains ...

2009-10-14T09:00:00.019-04:00

it pours! Pours gorgeous flowers that is. One day I am babbling on and on about "who cares about flowers, who needs em?" and then I saw those awesome arrangements I posted about on Weddzilla and today these centerpieces are just calling out to be posted about and loved ...

Gorgeous right! I might be reconsidering this whole flowers biz ... my indecisiveness is really getting the best of me I think .. or maybe not.

{Source for these beauties}

Unique Centerpieces

2009-10-13T00:05:00.002-04:00

Check out my post about super cool centerpieces on the Weddzilla blog.

Invitations!

2009-10-12T10:07:00.000-04:00

Yep, its about that time ... we are going to be sending out invitations super soon! And I wanted to give you guys a super secret sneak peak before our guests get 'em!

But before I show you the goods let me introduce their creator ... the super talented Leslie Chen of Slieberry Designs.

Check the handiwork people ...

... the front of the rsvp ...

... and the back ...

The invited will be packaged in an awesome charcoal pocketfold ... and I got tell you .. I never thought I could have such warm fuzzy affectionate feelings for stationary ... but Leslie has made it happen! I will take some pics when they arrive and show you all the end result. In the meantime, let me know what you think of the design and the wording and then go check out some of Leslie's other work over at her fabulous blog.

Winner!

2009-10-10T11:15:00.003-04:00

We have a winner in the My Wedding Favors Giveaway

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2009-10-10 15:15:23 UTC

Congrats to MEREDITH!

Just e-mail at bridechka@gmail.com to claim your fabulous prize!

And thanks to everyone who entered!

Last Day to Enter

2009-10-09T08:12:00.004-04:00

Don't forget to enter the favor giveaway by leaving a comment on the giveaway post! The winner will be randomly selected tonight.

Holy Molla

2009-10-08T09:37:00.001-04:00

Look, I know I am supposed to be talking about the wedds but sometimes I just see stuff I need to tell you about ... how great is this?

www.mollaspace.com

I am clearly going to be purchasing it... and then I can stop throwing pennies at the Big Guy every time I find one on the floor of the living room, in the closet, between our sheets, the drain of the bath tub, the cat's food .. ok you get the idea...

And I won't have to scream in frustration every morning I can't find my keys! Win, win, ... win!

I want you!

2009-10-07T00:07:00.000-04:00

So I know I am all anti-registry cause I am Russian and we only accept gifts that are flat and capable of being deposited into a bank account (no really! I am not just being a brat! Russians only give money at weddings, they think its rude to bring anything else! Back me up here Ruskies!). But sometimes I run into something and it makes me long to tell others to buy it for me (ok I think I might be coming across all wrong here .. but I am gonna roll with it.)

Anywhooooo ... I want this ....

I want it bad.

Its from here, and its making me reconsider that whole registry thing .. is it weird to only register for two things? This and cash! ... I think I can make it work ;)

Favor Giveaway!

2009-10-05T21:24:00.001-04:00

I know I was MIA today folks but I am back and I am ready to make it up to you!

With a fantastic giveaway from the lovely people over at ....

My Wedding Favors offers all types of favors and now they are offering one of you a $25 discount! Their selection is extensive ... check out some of my personal faves ...

.... like these Eat, Drink, Be Married shot glasses

or these Bamboo Escort card holders ....

.... there's these Topiary Escort card holders too!

Or this super cute We Clicked Mousepad ....

They are even offering favors that support the fight against Breast Cancer in their Pink Ribbon Collection, like these plantable favors ...

Ok, so for the GIVEAWAY .... Just leave a comment on this post about which product from the My Wedding Favors site is your favorite and I will pick a winner to receive $25.00 off anything on their site! The winner will be selected randomly this Friday, Oct. 9.

See! I told ya I'd make it up to you!

Milk Bar Wedding Cakes

2009-10-02T08:13:00.002-04:00

Check out my post on the Weddzilla blog about an awesome new Momofuku venture! Yep, you guessed it, it involves being delicious!

Willow pretty willow

2009-10-01T00:43:00.001-04:00

Isn't this just the vision of perfection for an escort-card table display? Picture all of the little cards standing in front of these tall, fuzzy, pretty willow branches ... I am kinda loving it ... and by "kinda" I mean A LOT. Dude, just their sheer fuzziness wins me over.

PS: Also, in Russian, they are called "cotiki" which means "little cats". I think that might add to my love for them ... just a little .... ok fine a lot! What can I say? Your girl's a total softy!

{Source}

Another awesome registry

2009-09-29T23:47:00.000-04:00

Yep, another super cool registry, check out my post on Weddzilla blog to read all about it.

Best. Registry Idea. Ever!

2009-09-29T07:33:00.000-04:00

A gift is a gift is a gift is a gift .... and eventually all of the kitchen supplies and household appliances start to become redundant, especially if you already live together and have a bunch of this stuff ("Look hon, another coffee grinder .... woo?"). But how about a registry that lets guests give you a new kind of gift? An investment in your future! That is where weddingfutures steps in! Instead of giving you tangible gifts or cash (which some people feel uncomfortable with ... although not me! Bring on the cold hard cash people! More on this later when I explain that Russians only attend weddings with envelopes not boxes ... ok tangent over!). More on weddingfutures ....

See its easy! Ok get ta investin peoples.

Late is better than never!

2009-09-27T00:19:00.003-04:00

I totally forgot to post the winner of the poster giveaway on Friday! So with out further ado, the winner is ....

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2009-09-27 04:19:12 UTC

Congrats to Yevs!

I won't be around on Monday since its a holiday for me and my Jewish peeps but I'll be back on Tuesday with lots of good shiz ... I promise!

Sample Sale Alert

2009-09-25T07:14:00.000-04:00

Cymbeline Paris Sample Sale
NYC Showroom
September 25-October 15, 2009

They say its a "huge selection of unique bridal gowns in pristine condition at prices that will delight!"
Make your appointment today by calling (212) 671-1051.

Cymbeline Paris
5 E 19th St, 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10003
email | www.cymbelinenyc.com

Poster Giveaway Ends Friday

2009-09-24T00:25:00.001-04:00

Don't forget to enter my giveaway! The winner will be selected on Friday.

Another cute DIY

2009-09-22T22:42:00.005-04:00

... this time its menus! I have to tell you, I am not always a fan of stationary ... there is just so much of it going on in terms of the weds and I just really couldn't care less about it .. I know blasphemy! But its true ... I just don't really care about paper or calligraphy or letterpress or any of that stuff. But I think this menu card idea is quite ... charming! It might even make me warm up to paper goods as a whole. Check it ...

Simple, elegant, and yet ... playful. I found it on The Knot. Just click on the link to get to the full instructions and the templates. Easy as cake ... mmmm cake now thats something I care about!

Emmys inspired Wedding Fashion

2009-09-22T09:15:00.001-04:00

Check out my post about my favorite bridal inspiration from the Emmys on the Weddzilla blog.

Giveaway time!

2009-09-21T00:08:00.001-04:00

What's the best way to start your week?? With a giveaway of course! This one comes to you from the lovely people at LargeFormatPosters. You know them, they do all sorts of online and poster printing including large format posters and banners. The winner will get one 8x24” rolled poster print. The contest is open to US residents only (and the shipping is FREE!).

I would use mine at the wedding and showcase our favorite engagement shot on the escort card table. How would you use it? To enter leave a comment telling me what you would do with the poster print. I'll pick a winner at random on Friday the 25th. Happy Monday folks!

Love Letters for the modern age

2009-09-17T09:00:00.008-04:00

How cute is this! Its a love note widget! If you are scratching your head in confusion right now, trust me I was right there with you when I first heard about it. Basically, it allows you to enter your info, upload some pictures, customize and creates a completely unique love note for your sweetie! Check out the one I made ....

A Virtual Love Note

Featuring Bridechka and Big Guy

Create your own at Robbins Brothers, The Engagement Ring Store

Wanna make your own? Of course you do! Just go to the Robbins Brothers website and have a blast. I did :)

So hot to trot

2009-09-16T09:00:00.019-04:00

I am currently in full on search mode ... the search for a wedding photographer that is! And who benefits from this? You do of course, cause that means I peruse tons of real weddings and engagement shoots and share that best ish with you! Check out this engagement shoot from Matthew Sowa Photography. Its soo sexy and fun ... what's not to love?

PS: I am going out tomorrow to buy a pair of stockings just like Agatha has on here ... they just scream HOT!

Real Wedding love

2009-09-15T09:00:00.000-04:00

Check out my post about a swoon-worthy real wedding and the gorgeous work of Missy Photography, on the Weddzilla Blog.

Blowout Sample Sale!

2009-09-14T22:12:00.001-04:00

Winners!

2009-09-14T19:42:00.000-04:00

Congrats to Katie and PDX Bride on winning the wall graphic!

Email me with your email addresses to claim your prize.

Bad *ss DIY

2009-09-14T09:00:00.001-04:00

Looking for a new project to add to your DIY list ... I mean come on who isn't looking for more busy work?!?!? Right! Right??? Ok, I am going to take it on faith that you are all big freaks like me, who want to add to your own to-do list! And I continue ...

How about scratch off escort cards! Yes? YES! I found this amazing make-your-own scratch off cards on the ARTMIND blog.

My thought is this ... you put each guests name on the top of the card and then they scratch it off to see their table number! Fabulous, no? Oh HALE YES.

Check out the ARTMIND blog for the full instructions ... and go DIY your butts off!

Another giveaway!

2009-09-11T09:00:00.002-04:00

A new product is being rolled out on UPrinting.com, and they are giving it away to you!! The new product is an innovative adhesive fabric that they call a Wall Graphic. Just imagine a huge sticker that you can peel and stick on any flat surface! These stickers use the same high-quality printing they use for their poster prints, so you can print photos, artworks or patterns in perfect detail!

I am thinking about using one to decorate the new apt?? Or maybe a dance-floor sticker for the weds with our initials on it??? Or maybe a life size poster of Ryan Reynolds to put in my bedroom??? (The Big Guy would be so totally cool with that!)

What would you do with a wall graphic? To enter the contest just leave a comment on how you'll use the product if you win. And I will pick 2 winners on Monday night!

PS: Some vital info for ya .... winners will have to pay $5 Handling Fee to claim prize. Shipping is free but its only open to US residents!

New chapter

2009-09-10T09:00:00.003-04:00

Today I start my career as an attorney! ... so I am taking a quick blogging break. Wish me luck, send me good, lawerly vibes, and keep it locked! Cause I will be back tomorrow with lots o' wedding inspiration!

GoWaza GoWaza Go!

2009-09-09T10:59:00.001-04:00

Check out my post about GoWaza, a fantastic resource for out-of-town guests, on the Weddzilla Blog.

October Bridal Event

2009-09-08T11:29:00.000-04:00

If your in the NYC area hop on by for a great bridal event ... check the details ...

Event: Bridal Beauty Bar

Location: Ainsworth | 122 West 26th Street NYC

Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Time: 6:00 – 9:30 pm
Tickets & Details Online: http://www.bridalbeautybar.eventbrite.com
Contact: rsvp@privatereceptions.com

Business Card Winners Announced!

2009-09-04T09:00:00.014-04:00

And the winners are ....

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

1
3

Timestamp: 2009-09-03 16:43:39 UTC

Congrats to Merium and Tara Kay

Email me with your e-mail addresses ladies and I will send along info on how to claim your prizes!

Also I will be starting another giveaway on Monday so be sure to tune in!

Beautful dresses on sale alert!

2009-09-03T11:49:00.001-04:00

If you need a gown for any upcoming occasion then head over to ideeli.com they are having a Tadashi sale today. These two are definitely my faves, so if you can scoop 'em up I would seriously advise it ...

This one is on sale for $168.

This one is only $229.

PS: If your not already a member of Ideeli, you absolutely have to sign up (they don't sposnor me in any way, they just happen to be awesome). Just shoot me an email if you want me to send you an invite to join it.

Business Card Giveaway

2009-09-02T09:41:00.002-04:00

Don't forget to enter the business card giveaway by leaving a comment here, winners will be announced this Friday Sept, 4. Good luck!

DIY Gift Hankies

2009-09-01T11:12:00.000-04:00

Check out the amazing DIY I posted on the Weddzilla blog (which I commandeered from the fabulous PDX Bride).

A letter ...

2009-08-31T09:56:00.003-04:00

Dear tree stump jewelry box,

I heart you and want you to live with me.

- Bridechka

PS: You could also kind of be a kick-ass b-maids gift. Just sayin.

From modestpeach

Remember to enter the business card giveaway!

2009-08-28T12:32:00.000-04:00

Don't forget to enter the latest giveaway by clicking here. Winners will be announced next Friday!

Wedding Shoe contenders ...

2009-08-27T09:00:00.004-04:00

Check out the shoes currently in the running to be my wedding shoe over at the Weddzilla blog.

Business Card Giveaway

2009-08-26T12:28:00.000-04:00

The last Digital Room giveaway was such a success, they decided to offer up another one right away!

This time you have the chance to win 500 business cards, that are completely customizable. You can choose from 3 business card sizes in die cut color business cards. Use them to promote your business or use them in your wedding (print thank you notes on them and give them out to your guests, put the name of a website on them for guests to upload pictures to, or put a cool design on them, write your guests names by hand, and use them as escort cards!)

Enter by leaving me a comment here about how you would use your prize! The winner will be selected randomly and announced next Wednesday, September 2, 2009. Remember ...

(2) PRIZE WINNERS WILL RECEIVE

500 Business Cards

Choose size: 2x3.5”, 2x3”, 2x2";

Choose paper: 14pt cardstock (matte or gloss coating) & 13 pt cardstock uncoated

Choose Color: (4/4) Color both sides; (4/1) Color 1 side , B/W backside; (4/0) Color 1 side, black backside

Enjoy!

Discount on NYC Wedding Event

2009-08-25T11:00:00.000-04:00

Check out my post on the Weddzilla blog about how to get 50% off the Art of Planning Your Own Wedding event.

Gimme five

2009-08-24T10:26:00.000-04:00

{Source}

Just five months from today, I will be standing under the chuppah, saying ancient words, holding his hand and looking into his eyes ... knowing that we are taking this step together, moving forward by sharing our love with the most important in our lives.

PS: I can't effing wait!

Ding Ding! And the winner is .....

2009-08-21T11:28:00.002-04:00

Thank you to everyone who entered the Digital Room Custom Postcard giveaway! And the winners are ...

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

9 5

Timestamp: 2009-08-21 15:22:20 UTC

Comments number 9 and 5 were by:

Krimilda and Bowie Bride!

Congrats ladies! Send me your email addresses to claim your prizes!

Giveaway ends tonight!

2009-08-20T10:19:00.000-04:00

Don't forget to enter the custom postcard giveaway! It ends tonight and the winner will be announced tomorrow.

Secret Aaaaaagent Girl ...

2009-08-19T11:07:00.001-04:00

.... "they're givin you a number, and takin away your name!"

Ok well I am not saying we should take away their name completely but .... I will be giving everyone a number! I know we have all been told to number those RSVP reply cards just in case people forget to put their names on them when they send them back ... but who wants to doodle all over those invites once the arrive all pretty and clean and perfecto .... especially when you have chicken scratch handwriting like me!

Well With This Ring, gave me the solution! Invisible ink pens! You can write the numbers on the cards and no one else will be able to see them, but each one is equipped with a blue light to reveal the numbers to you when your old aunt Greta sends you back a reply card with a doodle of a goose on it, instead of her name or how many people she is coming with. Useful no?

Plus it makes you feel like a super cool, secret agent! Useful and fun!

Trendsetter!

2009-08-18T09:47:00.003-04:00

Check out the Weddzilla blog for my post about an article about women proposing to their dudes.

Custom Postcard Giveaway

2009-08-17T10:44:00.000-04:00

Man do I love to get free stuff ... but even more so, I love giving stuff away! And who better to give stuff to then to you my friends?? No one! That's who. So let's have some fun, shall we?

Digital Room, provider of fabulous custom greeting cards and custom postcards, is giving away 200 Custom Postcards to 2 winners! All you have to do is leave a comment on this post about how you would use your prize.

Winners will be announced on Friday! Enjoy!

My way or the highway

2009-08-14T09:00:00.001-04:00

Check out my post on Weddzilla blog about customizable men's shirts ... made fresh to order, your way baby.

Vineyard Wedding

2009-08-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

Wolffer Estate Vineyard

I am spending the week in the Hamptons and luxuriating it up. My mom and grandma came to join me and we had lunch yesterday at the gorgeous Wolffer Estate Vineyard. But you know I can't have fun when I am not sharing it with you! So I figured I would share this Wolffer wedding ... and we can ooh and ahhh together! Ready? Ok here goes ....

Wedding from The Knot

Here, photog, photog, photog!

2009-08-12T10:21:00.000-04:00

Finding a photographer is not easy ... but finding a great deal is. Check out my post about a fantastic deal offered by a great photog on Weddzilla blog.

Put em up!

2009-08-11T08:26:00.000-04:00

Getting fingerprinted ... its not usually associated with pleasant occasions in life .... mostly its associated with the words "book 'em dano!" .... or maybe that's just in my head where we are all living in film noir and I am street wise lady cop walkin the beat with my hunky partner? Wow, that was one seriously long digression! Anyways .... fingerprinting just got some big boosts in the wedding world though. First there was this fingerprint tree ... which clearly makes me swoon.

And now there are these!

Hot, hot, hot, with a side of heat. How come there are so many fantastic cufflinks out there in the world?? It's just criminal! Oh, come on! I couldn't resist.

Found on Victoria with Roses and sold at Chris Parry's etsy store..... and they do other fingerprint jewelry too!

Bridechka and the Wedding

I'm lame but YOU are awesome

SNEAK PEAK!!!!!

I'm NOT ready!!!

Live feed!

January 24, 2010

I'm back ...

Free tix to Wedding Bootcamp

Live Feed!

And now I'm going ....

Guess where I went today....

Better late than never ... My Bridal Shower

Wedding Task: Favors

Our photographer!

Ani l'dodi

Happy New Year!

Pearly whites .. revisited

Merry Christmas folks!

Pearly whites

Winner Time!

Random Integer Generator

Giveaway ends tonight!

Wedding Update

Thank you thank you

Pretty pretty GIVEAWAY!!

Dilemma

Manly gift ... space age style

My SHOWER

Dissappointed

Je N'est Pas Une Candy Bar

Last chance to win ...

Happy Thanksgiving

I am a baddy

Nothing new to report

Bridesmaids gifts with purpose

Exhibit B - ring-a-ding, ding?Love Knot Ring $7.80, seriously!Exhibit C - maybe you're into heavy metal? Sterling Hammered Monolith Necklace & Earrings Set for $24.80

Aren't you lovely ...

I am a big winner!

Purchased yesterday

Customized Map Giveaway

7

Online Bouts

Wedding Task: Videographer

I need this in my life ...

Wedding Task: Florist

Have a great weekend!

Complimentary Wedding Salon Tickets

Wedding Task: Yarmulkes

Vistaprint Savings!

What's with the hat-echki? (Celebrity Guest post)

White Knot

We have a WINNER!

A big thank you to Vistaprint for this fabulous giveaway!And the winner is ...

Random Integer Generator

Giveaway reminder!

Bad blogger! Whatchya gonna do?

Vistaprint Giveaway

Letter

When it rains ...

Unique Centerpieces

Invitations!

Winner!

Last Day to Enter

Holy Molla

I want you!

Favor Giveaway!

Milk Bar Wedding Cakes

Willow pretty willow

Another awesome registry

Best. Registry Idea. Ever!

Late is better than never!

Sample Sale Alert

Poster Giveaway Ends Friday

Another cute DIY

Emmys inspired Wedding Fashion

Giveaway time!

Love Letters for the modern age

So hot to trot

Real Wedding love

Blowout Sample Sale!

Exhibit B - ring-a-ding, ding?

Love Knot Ring $7.80, seriously!

Exhibit C - maybe you're into heavy metal?

Sterling Hammered Monolith Necklace & Earrings Set for $24.80

A big thank you to Vistaprint for this fabulous giveaway!
And the winner is ...