Mrs. Espresso, Corona/Big BearAge and Occupation: 23, Community Services SpecialistFiance's Age and Occupation: 22, Maintenance TechnicianEngagement Date: December 21, 2007Wedding Date: October, 2008Blogging Since: June 25, 2008Venue: Outside a rustic b&b in Big Bear LakeAbout Me: I'm a lover of all things good: coffee, music, travel, rain, and of course- my handsome fiance! I'm a full believer in the "Life is Short," mantra - and therefore, eat lots of dark chocolate. I'm a Geographer by degree and nerd by choice. I cook to the sound of French and Portuguese music even though I speak neither. I love road trips, camping, hiking, and capturing life through the lens of my camera. Take me to Anthropologie and I may never leave. I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, bargain finds, and old movies. Mr. Espresso and I are high school sweethearts and I am so blessed to be this amazing man's future wife.
“Lucky Man” by The Verve began to play as we were pronounced man and wife. Press play above to listen to it as you scroll through the pictures.
In addition to the music, it also began to sprinkle little drops of rain. It was wonderful. We walked through our friends and family as husband and wife for the first time. Read more…
Mrs. Espresso, Corona/Big BearAge and Occupation: 23, Community Services SpecialistFiance's Age and Occupation: 22, Maintenance TechnicianEngagement Date: December 21, 2007Wedding Date: October, 2008Blogging Since: June 25, 2008Venue: Outside a rustic b&b in Big Bear LakeAbout Me: I'm a lover of all things good: coffee, music, travel, rain, and of course- my handsome fiance! I'm a full believer in the "Life is Short," mantra - and therefore, eat lots of dark chocolate. I'm a Geographer by degree and nerd by choice. I cook to the sound of French and Portuguese music even though I speak neither. I love road trips, camping, hiking, and capturing life through the lens of my camera. Take me to Anthropologie and I may never leave. I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, bargain finds, and old movies. Mr. Espresso and I are high school sweethearts and I am so blessed to be this amazing man's future wife.
I took the steps and made the walk. And now I was here, standing in front of Mr. Espresso; looking into his eyes and he looking into mine. Smiling, blushing, laughing. We were here… finally.
Mrs. Espresso, Corona/Big BearAge and Occupation: 23, Community Services SpecialistFiance's Age and Occupation: 22, Maintenance TechnicianEngagement Date: December 21, 2007Wedding Date: October, 2008Blogging Since: June 25, 2008Venue: Outside a rustic b&b in Big Bear LakeAbout Me: I'm a lover of all things good: coffee, music, travel, rain, and of course- my handsome fiance! I'm a full believer in the "Life is Short," mantra - and therefore, eat lots of dark chocolate. I'm a Geographer by degree and nerd by choice. I cook to the sound of French and Portuguese music even though I speak neither. I love road trips, camping, hiking, and capturing life through the lens of my camera. Take me to Anthropologie and I may never leave. I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, bargain finds, and old movies. Mr. Espresso and I are high school sweethearts and I am so blessed to be this amazing man's future wife.
Before I saw him I knew he was there. Our photographers had spotted him. Photographed him. Our parents had walked down the aisle. And then one by one, so did our wedding party; our friends. They took the steps necessary to start our ceremony, our walk, our declaration to love each other, and only each other, forever. And now it was my turn.
Mrs. Espresso, Corona/Big BearAge and Occupation: 23, Community Services SpecialistFiance's Age and Occupation: 22, Maintenance TechnicianEngagement Date: December 21, 2007Wedding Date: October, 2008Blogging Since: June 25, 2008Venue: Outside a rustic b&b in Big Bear LakeAbout Me: I'm a lover of all things good: coffee, music, travel, rain, and of course- my handsome fiance! I'm a full believer in the "Life is Short," mantra - and therefore, eat lots of dark chocolate. I'm a Geographer by degree and nerd by choice. I cook to the sound of French and Portuguese music even though I speak neither. I love road trips, camping, hiking, and capturing life through the lens of my camera. Take me to Anthropologie and I may never leave. I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, bargain finds, and old movies. Mr. Espresso and I are high school sweethearts and I am so blessed to be this amazing man's future wife.
When money is tight, your wedding party is large, and everyone comes in different shapes and sizes, a Little Black Dress can make decisions so much simpler—especially if you already have one in your closet. I had 7 bridesmaids. The tallest was 6′ tall and the shortest 5′ tall. The same dress can look very different on both. So early on, I decided to let each of my girlfriends pick their own LBD. My only request was that it had straps. Some wore dresses they already had, others went out and bought one, but it was their choice. It reflected their styles, and they actually could/would wear them again.
The moms decided to hop on the LBD bandwagon as well. And I’m so glad they did. Here is the beginning procession to our wedding. The parents walked down to Orange Sky by Alexi Murdoch and the wedding party walked to “It’s Good to Be in Love” by Frou Frou.
Mrs. Espresso, Corona/Big BearAge and Occupation: 23, Community Services SpecialistFiance's Age and Occupation: 22, Maintenance TechnicianEngagement Date: December 21, 2007Wedding Date: October, 2008Blogging Since: June 25, 2008Venue: Outside a rustic b&b in Big Bear LakeAbout Me: I'm a lover of all things good: coffee, music, travel, rain, and of course- my handsome fiance! I'm a full believer in the "Life is Short," mantra - and therefore, eat lots of dark chocolate. I'm a Geographer by degree and nerd by choice. I cook to the sound of French and Portuguese music even though I speak neither. I love road trips, camping, hiking, and capturing life through the lens of my camera. Take me to Anthropologie and I may never leave. I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, bargain finds, and old movies. Mr. Espresso and I are high school sweethearts and I am so blessed to be this amazing man's future wife.
Two o’ clock. October 4, 2008. And my fiance is waiting for me beneath the pines. Check my hair. Check my makeup. Check my dress… a little loose. I guess the seamstress forgot to put the clasp back on after altering it… but no worries, now I’m being sewn in (just a little added fun for the wedding night).
Mrs. Espresso, Corona/Big BearAge and Occupation: 23, Community Services SpecialistFiance's Age and Occupation: 22, Maintenance TechnicianEngagement Date: December 21, 2007Wedding Date: October, 2008Blogging Since: June 25, 2008Venue: Outside a rustic b&b in Big Bear LakeAbout Me: I'm a lover of all things good: coffee, music, travel, rain, and of course- my handsome fiance! I'm a full believer in the "Life is Short," mantra - and therefore, eat lots of dark chocolate. I'm a Geographer by degree and nerd by choice. I cook to the sound of French and Portuguese music even though I speak neither. I love road trips, camping, hiking, and capturing life through the lens of my camera. Take me to Anthropologie and I may never leave. I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, bargain finds, and old movies. Mr. Espresso and I are high school sweethearts and I am so blessed to be this amazing man's future wife.
My makeup and hair were done. Now the only thing left to do was slip on my dress. A monumental and strange moment, all in the same. I’m putting on the dress that I’ll marry my husband in. The dress I wouldn’t touch with a 10 foot pole until the day of our wedding in fear that I would damage it, spill on it, catch it on fire, etc. And now, not only do I finally get to wear it, but I’m stripping down to my tiny undies and a clear bra that could better pass for packaging tape. Sister, OK. Close friends there, OK. Extended family and SIL… OK. Photographers… please don’t take pictures of my front until I say you can.
Mrs. Espresso, Corona/Big BearAge and Occupation: 23, Community Services SpecialistFiance's Age and Occupation: 22, Maintenance TechnicianEngagement Date: December 21, 2007Wedding Date: October, 2008Blogging Since: June 25, 2008Venue: Outside a rustic b&b in Big Bear LakeAbout Me: I'm a lover of all things good: coffee, music, travel, rain, and of course- my handsome fiance! I'm a full believer in the "Life is Short," mantra - and therefore, eat lots of dark chocolate. I'm a Geographer by degree and nerd by choice. I cook to the sound of French and Portuguese music even though I speak neither. I love road trips, camping, hiking, and capturing life through the lens of my camera. Take me to Anthropologie and I may never leave. I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, bargain finds, and old movies. Mr. Espresso and I are high school sweethearts and I am so blessed to be this amazing man's future wife.
Mrs. Espresso, Corona/Big BearAge and Occupation: 23, Community Services SpecialistFiance's Age and Occupation: 22, Maintenance TechnicianEngagement Date: December 21, 2007Wedding Date: October, 2008Blogging Since: June 25, 2008Venue: Outside a rustic b&b in Big Bear LakeAbout Me: I'm a lover of all things good: coffee, music, travel, rain, and of course- my handsome fiance! I'm a full believer in the "Life is Short," mantra - and therefore, eat lots of dark chocolate. I'm a Geographer by degree and nerd by choice. I cook to the sound of French and Portuguese music even though I speak neither. I love road trips, camping, hiking, and capturing life through the lens of my camera. Take me to Anthropologie and I may never leave. I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, bargain finds, and old movies. Mr. Espresso and I are high school sweethearts and I am so blessed to be this amazing man's future wife.
My wonderful stylist and colorist Jeanette had made the trek up the mountain to do my hair for our wedding (for free). She also had done my cut and color for me the week before as a wedding present. I honestly LOVE her! Here we are getting started.
Mrs. Espresso, Corona/Big BearAge and Occupation: 23, Community Services SpecialistFiance's Age and Occupation: 22, Maintenance TechnicianEngagement Date: December 21, 2007Wedding Date: October, 2008Blogging Since: June 25, 2008Venue: Outside a rustic b&b in Big Bear LakeAbout Me: I'm a lover of all things good: coffee, music, travel, rain, and of course- my handsome fiance! I'm a full believer in the "Life is Short," mantra - and therefore, eat lots of dark chocolate. I'm a Geographer by degree and nerd by choice. I cook to the sound of French and Portuguese music even though I speak neither. I love road trips, camping, hiking, and capturing life through the lens of my camera. Take me to Anthropologie and I may never leave. I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, bargain finds, and old movies. Mr. Espresso and I are high school sweethearts and I am so blessed to be this amazing man's future wife.
Waking up on the day of our wedding was both surreal and calming. This was it. This was the day I was marrying Mr. Espresso: the sexiest, sweetest, and funniest man I have ever met. He is my best friend.
After I woke up, I stayed in bed for almost an hour, listening to faint noises outside my door, smelling the waffles and coffee the owner of our B&B was in the middle of making, and soaking up every quiet, meditative minute I could before the busyness of the day swooshed in. Time was in slow motion, and I felt that I could actually be in every second that came and passed.
Mrs. Espresso, Corona/Big BearAge and Occupation: 23, Community Services SpecialistFiance's Age and Occupation: 22, Maintenance TechnicianEngagement Date: December 21, 2007Wedding Date: October, 2008Blogging Since: June 25, 2008Venue: Outside a rustic b&b in Big Bear LakeAbout Me: I'm a lover of all things good: coffee, music, travel, rain, and of course- my handsome fiance! I'm a full believer in the "Life is Short," mantra - and therefore, eat lots of dark chocolate. I'm a Geographer by degree and nerd by choice. I cook to the sound of French and Portuguese music even though I speak neither. I love road trips, camping, hiking, and capturing life through the lens of my camera. Take me to Anthropologie and I may never leave. I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, bargain finds, and old movies. Mr. Espresso and I are high school sweethearts and I am so blessed to be this amazing man's future wife.
Future brides—I must tell you that our wedding rehearsal was when I had the, “Oh my gosh I’m a bride!” moment. Because the guests aren’t there. The music isn’t playing. The fancy dresses aren’t there. But you two are. Your closest family and friends are. And the pastor who is going to marry you is there. It’s almost like you could jump the gun and get it all said and done right there… but then… what would the point of having a rehearsal be?
Okay—so enough with the mushy, sentimental goulash. I’m moving on to my next rehearsal topic… what you be wearing?
What do you picture your wedding party wearing? Does it really matter? In the grand scheme of things—it doesn’t. Not at all. But our bridesmaids and groomsmen were dressed so differently from each other that I thought I’d include it in the post. Read more…
Mrs. Espresso, Corona/Big BearAge and Occupation: 23, Community Services SpecialistFiance's Age and Occupation: 22, Maintenance TechnicianEngagement Date: December 21, 2007Wedding Date: October, 2008Blogging Since: June 25, 2008Venue: Outside a rustic b&b in Big Bear LakeAbout Me: I'm a lover of all things good: coffee, music, travel, rain, and of course- my handsome fiance! I'm a full believer in the "Life is Short," mantra - and therefore, eat lots of dark chocolate. I'm a Geographer by degree and nerd by choice. I cook to the sound of French and Portuguese music even though I speak neither. I love road trips, camping, hiking, and capturing life through the lens of my camera. Take me to Anthropologie and I may never leave. I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, bargain finds, and old movies. Mr. Espresso and I are high school sweethearts and I am so blessed to be this amazing man's future wife.
I woke up in my bed, my room, my house for the last time. I was to be marrying my best friend in 1 whole day. I remember waking up the day after Mr. Espresso proposed. My eyes slowly tried to push themselves open and then quickly darted to my left hand to see if the previous night was real. Aww… the ring was there. And then I just stared at it, put my hand under the covers, and then quickly pulled it out again to see if anything had changed.
That’s how I felt on this day. I laid there, looked at my ring, looked around my messily boxed up room, and then looked back down at my left hand. Aww, sweet God, ONE. MORE. DAY.
And the day began.
Throw down some Advil. Try to not feel flu at its peak. Choose: shower or pedicure. Drive to nail salon and pick an OPI color that references our honeymoon spot. Relax in the massage chair. Realize I forgot to buy a garter. Call lovely bridesmaid and ask her to pick up one for me on the way—any color, any style.
Pack up all the vehicles. Caravan up the mountain. Pull into Big Bear Village. Run into North Pole Fudge Co and pay for 160 Caramel Apples. Be astonished by the generosity of staff who offers free delivery. Wonder how sick I actually look. Fiddle with my oily hair. Walk out of the shop and into the crisp fall air. Smell fireplaces going. Smell pine trees. LOVE MY LIFE. LOVE THIS DAY. LOVE MY FIANCE FOR THE LAST DAY. Read more…
Mrs. Espresso, Corona/Big BearAge and Occupation: 23, Community Services SpecialistFiance's Age and Occupation: 22, Maintenance TechnicianEngagement Date: December 21, 2007Wedding Date: October, 2008Blogging Since: June 25, 2008Venue: Outside a rustic b&b in Big Bear LakeAbout Me: I'm a lover of all things good: coffee, music, travel, rain, and of course- my handsome fiance! I'm a full believer in the "Life is Short," mantra - and therefore, eat lots of dark chocolate. I'm a Geographer by degree and nerd by choice. I cook to the sound of French and Portuguese music even though I speak neither. I love road trips, camping, hiking, and capturing life through the lens of my camera. Take me to Anthropologie and I may never leave. I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, bargain finds, and old movies. Mr. Espresso and I are high school sweethearts and I am so blessed to be this amazing man's future wife.
Once upon a time, I was a consistent blogger here on Weddingbee. I posted about all the regular wedding topics: DIY projects, planning, triumphs, and troubles. And then, I posted that I would be leaving the “Miss” world and be entering that of the “Mrs.”. Life was wonderful, and I was on top of it. Read more…
Mrs. Espresso, Corona/Big BearAge and Occupation: 23, Community Services SpecialistFiance's Age and Occupation: 22, Maintenance TechnicianEngagement Date: December 21, 2007Wedding Date: October, 2008Blogging Since: June 25, 2008Venue: Outside a rustic b&b in Big Bear LakeAbout Me: I'm a lover of all things good: coffee, music, travel, rain, and of course- my handsome fiance! I'm a full believer in the "Life is Short," mantra - and therefore, eat lots of dark chocolate. I'm a Geographer by degree and nerd by choice. I cook to the sound of French and Portuguese music even though I speak neither. I love road trips, camping, hiking, and capturing life through the lens of my camera. Take me to Anthropologie and I may never leave. I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, bargain finds, and old movies. Mr. Espresso and I are high school sweethearts and I am so blessed to be this amazing man's future wife.
Hello Hello Hello!! I’ve missed writing here so much and can’t wait until we get our pro pics. When I get them, I will caffeine up and post like no other. But for now, I’m going to get back in the groove with the Honeymoon in my Hometown series. I didn’t grow up in Orange County, but since I went to school there, currently work there, and it’s only 30 minutes away, I have a good amount of knowledge on the topic. I’m going to give advice for both lavish spenders and bees on a budget. I am definitely the latter, but I know when you’re on your honeymoon, you often budget to spend more than you normally would. So here we go: Orange County.
Hotels:
The Resort at Pelican Hill is brand spanking new, gorgeous, and luxurious. You’ll get 5 star service from the second you step out of your car, and will feel like a celebrity all the while. Prices are steep however, and you can expect to spend a minimum of $700 per night!
Mrs. Espresso, Corona/Big BearAge and Occupation: 23, Community Services SpecialistFiance's Age and Occupation: 22, Maintenance TechnicianEngagement Date: December 21, 2007Wedding Date: October, 2008Blogging Since: June 25, 2008Venue: Outside a rustic b&b in Big Bear LakeAbout Me: I'm a lover of all things good: coffee, music, travel, rain, and of course- my handsome fiance! I'm a full believer in the "Life is Short," mantra - and therefore, eat lots of dark chocolate. I'm a Geographer by degree and nerd by choice. I cook to the sound of French and Portuguese music even though I speak neither. I love road trips, camping, hiking, and capturing life through the lens of my camera. Take me to Anthropologie and I may never leave. I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, bargain finds, and old movies. Mr. Espresso and I are high school sweethearts and I am so blessed to be this amazing man's future wife.
I saw this idea on one of my daily blog reads and thought: “What a Fantastic Idea for a Summer Wedding!”
Has anyone ever done anything like this before?
Mrs. Espresso, Corona/Big BearAge and Occupation: 23, Community Services SpecialistFiance's Age and Occupation: 22, Maintenance TechnicianEngagement Date: December 21, 2007Wedding Date: October, 2008Blogging Since: June 25, 2008Venue: Outside a rustic b&b in Big Bear LakeAbout Me: I'm a lover of all things good: coffee, music, travel, rain, and of course- my handsome fiance! I'm a full believer in the "Life is Short," mantra - and therefore, eat lots of dark chocolate. I'm a Geographer by degree and nerd by choice. I cook to the sound of French and Portuguese music even though I speak neither. I love road trips, camping, hiking, and capturing life through the lens of my camera. Take me to Anthropologie and I may never leave. I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, bargain finds, and old movies. Mr. Espresso and I are high school sweethearts and I am so blessed to be this amazing man's future wife.
Once upon a time in July, we were debating between having long or round tables at our wedding. I loved long tables, but I had a lot of people telling me they wouldn’t look right, they require too many centerpieces, people’s knees would touch, and on and on the reasons went. So I wrote a post about it and asked your opinion. I’m so glad you all encouraged me to follow my heart and go with what I wanted.
Here is what our reception area looked like with the long tables:
Mrs. Espresso, Corona/Big BearAge and Occupation: 23, Community Services SpecialistFiance's Age and Occupation: 22, Maintenance TechnicianEngagement Date: December 21, 2007Wedding Date: October, 2008Blogging Since: June 25, 2008Venue: Outside a rustic b&b in Big Bear LakeAbout Me: I'm a lover of all things good: coffee, music, travel, rain, and of course- my handsome fiance! I'm a full believer in the "Life is Short," mantra - and therefore, eat lots of dark chocolate. I'm a Geographer by degree and nerd by choice. I cook to the sound of French and Portuguese music even though I speak neither. I love road trips, camping, hiking, and capturing life through the lens of my camera. Take me to Anthropologie and I may never leave. I'm a sucker for pretty packaging, bargain finds, and old movies. Mr. Espresso and I are high school sweethearts and I am so blessed to be this amazing man's future wife.
All-Inclusion Invitation Suites
My makeup and hair were done. Now the only thing left to do was slip on my dress. A monumental and strange moment, all in the same. I’m putting on the dress that I’ll marry my husband in. The dress I wouldn’t touch with a 10 foot pole until the day of our wedding in fear that I would damage it, spill on it, catch it on fire, etc. And now, not only do I finally get to wear it, but I’m stripping down to my tiny undies and a clear bra that could better pass for packaging tape. Sister, OK. Close friends there, OK. Extended family and SIL… OK. Photographers… please don’t take pictures of my front until I say you can. 
My wonderful stylist and colorist Jeanette had made the trek up the mountain to do my hair for our wedding (for free). She also had done my cut and color for me the week before as a wedding present. I honestly LOVE her! Here we are getting started.
Waking up on the day of our wedding was both surreal and calming. This was it. This was the day I was marrying Mr. Espresso: the sexiest, sweetest, and funniest man I have ever met. He is my best friend.
Future brides—I must tell you that our wedding rehearsal was when I had the, “Oh my gosh I’m a bride!” moment. Because the guests aren’t there. The music isn’t playing. The fancy dresses aren’t there. But you two are. Your closest family and friends are. And the pastor who is going to marry you is there. It’s almost like you could jump the gun and get it all said and done right there… but then… what would the point of having a rehearsal be? 
