Wedding Wednesday!

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Happy Wedding Wednesday!

I checked my notes the other day and found the link to this article:
18 Digital Do's and Don'ts for Weddings.

You guys, this is hilarious.
Some of the examples? ha!
I can't! I just can't!

Here's the list (below), but seriously, read it!

Some of those are crazy, right?

I mean, come on. Who texts while walking down the aisle or updates their Facebook status IMMEDIATELY after saying "I do"????
That's ridiculous.
And berating friends for cheap gifts? That's so rude!

Some of the others are just as silly!

Admittedly, I do agree with a few of them!

However, I'm not so sure about #7.
I've read about some pictures from the photographer being ruined because guests were in the background with their cameras and the flash messed with the lighting.

On the other hand, some guests capture moments that the photographer may not see.
How would you ask them to not take photos? Put it politely in the program?

Curious to hear what you think!

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Please join our linkup! Kristyn and I sure do love it when you do!

Please share the link-up on social, too, if you wish! 

@marysue20 is the name, #WeddingWednesday is the game.

Little Bit of Class Tuesday

Robert Frost once wrote, "Good fences make good neighbors," indicating that good neighbors respect boundaries.

Welp, clearly Mr. Road-Less-Traveled-By never met my next door neighbor. 

...or understood that apartments don't have fences.

 My neighbor likes to sing. And yell.

At all hours.

Now, I'm not one to stifle someone's song, but Lord Almighty I wish that I could.

Let's just say that this lass is not a strong contender for The Voice.

And no, I don't know her.

I could waltz over and offer some cookies while mentioning that her voice sounds like a dying feline, but I am not too sure that would go over too well.

Plus, Andrew and I watch a lot of sports and we tend to yell at our teams.

(I mean, c'mon, the Steelers had a rough season).

So she is not the only one at fault here.

But what can I do?

Judging by our love of sports we won't stop yelling.

And judging by her incessant squawking she most likely will not silence her singing.

Do you think she sings because we yell?

Is she getting back at us?

Is this some sort of weird condo karma biting me in the bum?

Yeah, I don't know, so I asked Ms. Emily Post.

Admittedly, she wasn't a huge help:

Well, I don't think we will be going to public officials. 

I doubt I'd even write a note.

The whole calmness thing is good advice, though, because when I hear her voice before 8 am on the weekend I am anything but tranquil. Good to keep in mind should we ever have an encounter.

Maybe I will try to strike up a conversation if I ever see her in the hall.

If it's after a game I can laughingly apologize for yelling at our teams.

Then she can say, "Oh no problem. I sing all of the time to get back at you. You cheer on your teams at an acceptable volume and I'll sing softer. Truce?"

Yeah, right.

Georgetown isn't ranked and I doubt they'll dance in March Madness.

It's gonna get loud.

What would you do?

This Weekend Was Too Swift! (See What I Did There?)

Two favorite moments of an amazing weekend:

The first moment was when Andrew walked in the door from being gone all weekend. He was in New Orleans for a friend's bachelor party and brought me a gift!

Mmmm beignets from Cafe du Monde...YUM! They traveled pretty well, too!

And second, the moment I realized that I'm a better dancer than Miss Swift:

{via}

Have a happy week!

Little Bit of Sass Thursday!

OK I'm not posting today, but Kristyn posted about me! It's sassy and sweet and oh so nice!

Go read it on Chits and Giggles! The post includes an incredible DIY, too! 

Thanks to my favorite Wedding Wednesday co-host for the shout-out!

Wedding Wednesday: Card Boxes

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Happy Wedding Wednesday!

What are all of you doing for card boxes?

While I think bird cages, open vintage suitcases, and wire-type containers are cute and whimsical, I just don't feel that they are very secure. Too many "what if" moments flash through my mind.

Some of the ones I have seen on Etsy are PRICEY, which I think is silly.

I'm not sure what to do, and my Mom and I may DIY one, but here are a few that I like that will serve as inspiration:

1 | 2 | 3
4 | 5
6 | 7

Obviously the "Up" mailbox isn't secure, but I just love "Up" so I had to include it!

What do you think? Have you decided what you will do for yours? If you're already married, what container carried your cards?


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Please join our linkup! Kristyn and I sure do love it when you do!

Please share the link-up on social, too, if you wish! 

@marysue20 is the name, #WeddingWednesday is the game.

The Power of Pizza

Pizza holds so many memories for me.

OK fine, maybe the pizza itself doesn't hold anything but grease and mounds of mozzarella, but roll with me on this one.

Growing up we always had pizza and watched movies on Fridays. I remember arguing with my siblings over which pizza place to call, getting annoyed when coupons had expired, and scoffing when anyone suggested that we consume anything other than my weekly treat.

{Side note: yes, I have always been a fat kid. I fully admit it.}

To this day, ordering pizza and watching a movie is my favorite Friday activity. It is the perfect way to unwind after a long week. Give me sweatpants, a good movie and a pizza over happy hour or a night out any Friday. 

Sure, my tastes graduated from either milk or pop in my younger days to delicious brews today. 

But regardless of the beverage the same theme rings true: pizza accompanies memories.

Remember Book-It at school?

Or your friends' birthday parties at the local pizza parlor?

Fighting over the corner pieces with friends after the Friday night varsity basketball game?

Stuffing your face with it in college after a fun night out?

...eating the rest of it in the morning?

I don't usually remember particular pizzas, but I do remember some of my "firsts." 

For example, my first low-carb pizza was a sad experience.
Going to different cities and tasting their pies is always fun.

But my first slice of Chicago pizza?

That was priceless.

Yep, I was a happy gal.

My first slice was on a warm summer day at the Michigan Avenue Giordano's. 

I had to wait 45 minutes for that sucker to bake.

But my oh my was it worth it.

While I was stuffing my face with the stuffed pizza I heard that there were competing pizza parlors, all touting different specialties and combos! 

What?

I had my work cut out for me for sure!

I have definitely had a good time sampling the best the city has to offer and I always ensure that any of my visitors take part as well.

So why am I writing an ode to pizza?

Well, I do have a reason, and no I'm not getting anything out of the deal so opinions are my own.

When Marriott contacted me to post an infographic about Chicago pizza I jumped at the chance.

OK fine, I thought it was a fun idea and then I immediately ordered a pizza and forgot to post it.

I mean, priorities, right?

But here I am, posting this today.

Anyway, had I seen this infographic upon moving to Chicago I would have felt less overwhelmed by all of the options.

I also would have felt educated!

Take a look!

(I dare you not to drool)

{via}

Yum!

Is it Friday yet??

Do you have a favorite Chicago Deep Dish?

I love both Giordano's and Lou Malnati's but I still have many different places to try!

{This Infographic was Powered by Marriott.}

2014 Planner!

Hello hello! I have to share info about my new planner. I know I'm a little late in the game, considering it's January 20 and all, but whatever. It arrived over the weekend and I love it! I'm picky about my planners so it took me a while to find just the right one.  I need it to not only be cute but also durable. My planner goes with me everywhere so it has to last. I also have to have monthly tabs, a place for notes each month and a monthly spread so I can see the month at a glance. Shouldn't be that difficult, right? Wrong. I searched a lot of online places, including my beloved Target, but nothing struck my fancy. However, Etsy came to the rescue and PlumPaperDesigns is my new go-to!

The added bonuses are the pockets to hold different coupons and papers as well as the customizable front page!

Including shipping I paid $41, which is a hefty price I admit, but like I said I did my research and the only other ones that fit my grand expectations were more expensive.

What do you think? Do you have a favorite place to shop for planners?

Wedding Wednesday: A Day Late

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Happy Wedding Wednesday!

Well I actually have a reason for posting a day late.

That's right!

Today marks 100 days from THE BIG DAY!

That picture is proof that I have a lot of practicing to do before I address the invitations! Yikes! 

OK fine, another reason for the late post is that I've been super busy. I'm sure you don't care, but I feel the need to list an excuse, being a co-host of a link-up and all.

Anyway, I'm excited to read what all of you are up to this week!
I will write my updated list next week! We've crossed off quite a bit!
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Please join our linkup! Kristyn and I sure do love it when you do!

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@marysue20 is the name, #WeddingWednesday is the game.

Wedding Wednesday: An Invitation Guide

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Happy Wedding Wednesday!

Well my goodness!
All of you were so helpful when I asked questions about invitations! I received quite a few comments so I thought I would put together a little guide in case future brides need some invitation inspiration! I was so overwhelmed with options when I first started the research process, so I want to help any future brides if possible!

Obvious tips that you have probably heard: 1) Have your invite coordinate with your theme; and 2) letterpress, ribbons, foil, envelope liners, etc. all increase the price.

Something else to think about is how many pieces of paper you want to mail as well as how many paper items you want to have on your wedding day. If you want them to match, maybe getting your escort cards/programs/place cards, etc. by your stationer could save time, money, and hassle. It also keeps everything consistent, but consistency is probably not something your guests will even notice. Want to hand write everyone's names on their escort cards? Go for it, sister! It could save you upwards of $100+!!!

In terms of actually selecting invitations, from what I've heard and researched myself, here are my top ten options when looking for invitations.
...but really, there are so many more.

First of all, if you have no idea what you want, start your search with the mother and father of all online inspiration: Etsy and Pinterest.

Seriously, a search of "wedding invitations" on Etsy will leave you with over 100,000 options from nearly as many artists selling their talent-filled designs for you. Many of my friends have used Etsy designers and loved the experience because they personally worked with the designer to create something truly unique to their style!

Overwhelmed by Etsy? So was I. I typed in "traditional wedding invitation" to try and narrow slightly and received just over 2,800 suggestions. Choices!

In terms of Pinterest, one suggestion was to check out pins recommended by Broke Ass Bride that include links to free printables {sorry for the "a" word, Mom!}. It's also another way to shop for Etsy designers and gain general inspiration. Search around and see what you find!

I had three fabulous friends comment that they used Wedding Paper Divas. If you or anyone in your Facebook Friend list is engaged then you've definitely heard of this online company. They spend a pretty penny on their online ads for sure with all of the posts I see in my feed. Overall, this site has quite a selection. I would say that a majority of their invites have a modern feel to them, full of cool fonts and colors. My sorority sister got a 40% off coupon for ordering 6 months out from Liking their Facebook page, which I think is quite a deal. Check them out!

Fan of the DIY route?
Options 4, 6, 8, and sometimes 9 are for you!
Michaels, Hobby Lobby and JoAnn Fabrics all have wedding departments, including invitation kits that are incredibly cost-efficient. All three almost always have coupon deals and sales, too!
If you have the design capabilities, VistaPrint is also an option if you want to create your own design but don't want to print them yourself. Personally, I think printing is the most stressful part (other than addressing, of course!). VistaPrint also has various designs to choose from, too, if you don't want to upload a design.

Many friends have used Minted in the past, mainly for Save the Dates and holiday cards. Their selection and quality seem top notch, especially since they offer letterpress! Here's my personal favorite!

Finally, a friend suggested Jupiter and Juno Shop. They offer whole suites, too, which I think is convenient. Their modern designs are very sleek. They also offer matching day-of paper materials, from programs to coasters and napkins. Consistency is key for this shop!

I added Smitten Boutique to my list because, well, I love this store. It's in the neighborhood and is such a sweet little business. We went in there one afternoon and sifted through hundreds of options. We were able to narrow down just what we like and all of the details. We're waiting on a quote! They can also print designs for us if we decide to DIY it on Adobe Illustrator. There's something comforting about being able to walk down the street to consult about the invites, you know?

Ann's Bridal Bargains and Exclusively Weddings have invitation options, too, but I have not heard any reviews about their quality or selection.

We'll see what we end up choosing, but I'm excited!
Next up, practicing calligraphy!!!

Any other places to add? Please let me know in the comments!

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Please join our linkup! Kristyn and I sure do love it when you do!

Please share the link-up on social, too, if you wish! 

@marysue20 is the name, #WeddingWednesday is the game.

Little Bit of Class Tuesday

Just a few classy images for you today:

Want more? Check out my Classy Board!

Stay warm, everyone!

Giveaway!

Happy frigid Monday! 

I'm very lucky to work from home today, so I'm currently nursing my horrible cold, wearing pjs and doing as much work as I can without my second monitor. I really can't complain!

I just wanted to drop a quick line and ask you to please enter the fun giveaway, hosted by my friend Stephanie at Not Entirely Perfect!

I really wish I could enter because I loooove this bag! 

Good luck!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

2014!

Another year, another set of goals, another excuse to work for what you want.

No matter what you wish for this year, I hope and pray that you achieve whatever you put your mind to do!

We can do it!
Let's do this!

Think positively, people! :) 

Cheers!