The Bells will soon be a ringin...

And by bells I mean WEDDING BELLS! I have been trying to avoid the all-too-annoying, yet inevitable, wedding countdown. I gave in this morning to produce the number of 53. That's it! FIFTY-THREE DAYS till the big day!! (and for those of you who don't want to do the math, the big day is July 25th).

I have now learned how MUCH there is to do. I feel like planning a wedding is a full-time job! It makes me just as tired as one, that's for sure. Here is what has been checked off the list:

• The dress! I scored that one within the first week of being engaged, thanks to Abella Bridal in the Riverwoods.
• Bridesmaids dresses -- another major score. I love sales, I love Banana Republic, I love those dresses.
  
• The colors -- which came easily after finding those dresses. Burnt orange/coral, light yellow, sage green, and guys in brown suits. A wonderful pallet I'd say.
• Reception center, a la Alpine Art Center
• Flowers! I am excited for what Laura Giddens, my sister's wonderful, creative, and talented friend will create.
• Invitations, which are soon to be completed by the talented Andrew Garlock at 2nd Street Print Designs
• Addresses -- a slow processs. I think I have most of them (and, faithful readers, if I haven't asked you for your address and you'd like an announcement, add a comment with your address or send it to me at CamilleMcLaws@gmail.com... I'd love to send one to you!)
• REGISTERING! What a task. We have officially finished at Bed, Bath, & Beyond and Macy's. Whew.
• Engagements pictures. A big THANK YOU to Jon Tehero is in order. I will post more of those later.
• Table centerpieces -- another great score at Tai Pan Trading Company, a store where I could spend way too much time and money.

So that seems like a great list, right? It makes me feel like I have been so productive. And then I look at the next list, of things that I still have yet to do...

• Actually pick out, address, and send the invitations
  
• Wedding shoes?
• Hair piece -- veil? flower? neither?
• Music for reception
• Party favors
• Plan food for both the Alpine and Spokane receptions
• Meet with cake ladies for both receptions
• Decorations?
• Wedding video (you know, the traditional corny photo montage... sigh...)
  
• A custom wedding sign-in book made by yours truly
• Bridals - July 3rd with Photography by McKenzie
• Find an apartment in San Antonio
• Get a new job in San Antonio
  

Whew. So I think that is it, but probably not. There is probably more. We really are having fun with this.... I swear!

Well, this picture explains it all.