The engagement years · 2006 – early 2007
Venues, dresses, invitations, cakes, centerpieces, the countdown — every step of putting it all together.
Georg and Samia Opening Gifts around the URBAN campfire. Today was busy! Renee was helpful and we went to Flowerworld to pick ceremony flowers, had lunch, and finished the programs. Then I had a massage, Whitney and I shopped for the gift for “Naked Drunkin’…
Read moreDoesn’t Whitney look cute? Today, We went out for Whitney’s “non-bachelorette” bachelorette party 🙂 She even RELUCTANTLY wore the crown and even the (respectful “I-do”) veil for a few minutes. It was a great time full of fun and silly-ness! We started off at…
Read moreWhat I accomplished today: Packed up more of the decorating supplies Finished making Bridesmaids and Flowergirl Gifts Redid my earings Tied the ribbon on the last 2 votives Worked on Rehearsal Decor Layout Weeded Brett purchased sparklers (twice because the…
Read moreWe are officially 10 days out! The weather is supposed to be sunny and 81 (!), We’ll see what happens as we get closer. 🙂 What I accomplished today: Finished my earings, adjusted my necklace Picked up more decorating supplies from JoAnn’s Purchased flat shoes…
Read moreAccomplished today: Added some new photos to Flickr Got our marriage license Cancelled hair appointment Worked on and almost finished Bridesmaid gifts Got a massage (ohhh!)
Read moreWhat I accomplished today: Added some new photos to Flickr Added group photo from bachelorette party to this post Finalized Vows! Twinkle lights came in Finalized Wedding Day Schedule (Pending vendor approval) Music Playlist, Done! Cermony and Reception…
Read moreWhat was accomplished today: Finished printing programs Printed new to do list (down from 3 pages to 2!) Canceled old hotel reservations Called tux shop to cancel extra tuxes (Brett) Picked up a few items for restroom basket Took the evening off to go see…
Read moreToday Becca, Renee, Debi and Mom came to help! I provided munchies – cantaloupe and proccuitto, lettuce wraps, pico de gallo, sake martinis and they provided the manual labor! Renee helped me finish a majority of the programs (3 cuts, 3 corner rounds, a whole…
Read moreRSVP’s today Shatos Family, “Flowergirls Rule” Todays Accomplishments: Finish program edits Pick “Sparkler Send Off Songs” (Influence of Michelle!) Designed and printed signs: Favors, Sparkler Send-off, Compliments of the Bride, After Party Called about…
Read moreA wedding gift arrived today from Ally and Duffy! 🙂 What I accomplished today: Finalizing wedding day schedule Program Edits Kid Favor Tags Confirmed guest parking list Rachael’s Dress is in… I got to go with her to try it on! Finished Necklace BRETT FINISHED…
Read moreWhat I accomplished today: Made photography shot list Met with photographers. Our lead photographer: Jennifer Richard’s Website Picked up Wedding Bands, Dropped of Engagement Ring Purchased undergarments Looked for rehersal dinner shoes
Read moreOur first wedding gift arrived today from Brett’s Grandmother and Aunt! What was accomplished today: Ordered Lucky Bamboo Put up several RSVP’s on the blog Scheduled Photography Meeting
Read moreTodays RSVP’s Nancy McConnell Things accomplished today: Today, Summer was gracious enough to accompany me on several errands! I can’t thank her enough! Finished Bridal Shower Recap (yes, it’s taken me this long) Finished my returns Purchased glue, fountain…
Read moreRehearsal Invite What was accomplished today: Worked on my necklace Reviewed & edited to do list Started Rehearesal dinner menu/grocery list Created Rehearsal dinner evite (coming soon to an email box near you)
Read moreMy time is flying by quickly!! What I accomplished today: Worked on brides necklace (getting close to finished!) Shoe shopping with mom Returns at Paper Source Brought my rings in to be sized
Read moreToday Whitney came over and I practiced “smokey eye” along with testing out all my new makeup! Then we went to FX Mcrory’s for a delicious blue cheese burger. Whitney and then headed over to Court in the square to go over decorating plan. It went pretty well…
Read moreWhat was accomplished today: Went with mom to her alterations… she got stood up! Purchased ribbon for programs Spent time with the pastry chef and designed our cake Our Aisle runner came in the mail today I spent hours at the salon! My hair is now dyed,…
Read moreIf you are still looking for a place to stay, we’ve set up a room block at Hotel Andra. If you book before June 27th and mention the Shatos-Griffin Wedding upon booking (call 206.448.8600), the following rates will be honored: Andra Rooms: $196 + 15.6%…
Read moreRSVP’s recieved today: Justin Patterson, Yes Lynn Drinkwater, No What we accomplished today: Final details of Room Block at Hotel Andra (Brett) Finished up interactive map and attractions PDF for guests Emailed Guests PDF, hotel info, etc Ordered more bead…
Read moreToday’s RSVPs: Rob: Sadly I am unable to attend. Enjoy the Big Day! What was accomplished today: Out of town “Seattle attractions” PDF Our custom Map with Seattle attractions & wedding info (Check it out, it’s so cool!!) Cut out centerpeice paper
Read moreToday my sister Renee gave me a nice grey box with a light pink bow. Inside was the cutest dress for my rehearsal!!! Not only do I love it, but I can check that task off my list. Renee rocks! Yep, she loves me!
Read moreToday’s RSVP’s: Newmans RSVP for 5 Darlene, Stacey, Tina RSVP for 3 What we accomplished today: Tied the rest of the chair ribbons Made “Master Wedding To Do List” Ordered Carson & Keagan’s Gifts Worked on Playlist Follow up with catering (Brett) Look for…
Read moreSummer & Matt’s RSVP Tonight I had a girls night with Summer, Danielle and Whitney. After all the work on the wedding lately it was so nice to just relax. We made my new favorite cocktail… Sake, Cointreau, and Lime Juice. Delish! I made tuna balls and…
Read moreWhat I accomplished today: Looked for shoes online with Renee for flowergirls Edited music with Larry Worked on playlist for reception Went to mom’s to work out garters and ring pillow Worked on jewelry
Read moreTonight Brett, Renee, Scott and I were forced to do “research for the after party. Yes, a tough job, but someone has to do it! First we started at Lola, which is at the bottom of Hotel Andra. The food there wasn’t too bad, and drinks were ok (although mine…
Read moreWhat I accomplished today: Bought paper for my programs Helped Whitney pick paper for her tables Worked on Centerpeice ideas Began uploading photos from the shower… more to come. Went out with Renee and Scott to “research” bars for the After Party!
Read moreFeatured photo of the day… Rachaels Invite! What I checked off today: Program text, completed Program Designed: Mom, Renee, Gloria, Michelle Proofing Flower revised quote in. Reviewed, corrected, sent back Talked to Rick about decorating (Brett) Brett’s Ring…
Read moreTodays RSVP’s Heather, Jeremy and “Baby Weeks” make 2 1/2 🙂 Favor Bags… come to see what’s going to be in them! What I accomplished today: Found & ordered aisle runner Dropped invites off at post office (Brett) Reviewed/revised wedding vows and ceremony with…
Read morePhoto frame with my custom designed flower. RSVP’s Today Chris and Jamie Griffin “Looking forward to seeing you!” A few things done today! Added “Who is the wedding party?” on the blog Looked up rental costs (plates, etc) for rehearsal dinner Called florist…
Read moreRSVP from Rick, Stephanie, Hannah “yes!” More accomplished: Purchased more beads for my necklace Purchased the rest of square photo frames Purchased 9 bags of rocks for tables Decided on hor s’devours for cocktail hour Contacted Catering for revised estimate…
Read moreToday the Petries and I started out with Breakfast at Pomagranate Bistro! *YUM* Then we went to Renee’s and I helped her with her landscape design curves. After that problem was solved… we worked on wedding planning! Things done today: Worked on a firmer…
Read moreWe’re ready to learn “The art of the Strip Tease” at DanceWorks Studio Today we got the video back from the bachelorette “strip tease” class. It was really great, and I sent it out to all the ladies who attended along with my sister-in-law Debi and my Sister…
Read moreToday, I spent the whole day with mom. We did a lot of wedding “running around.” We started with going to a consignment shop in Kirkland, where we found her dress! It’s really lovely, soft and flowy and also happened to be the first one she tried on. Although…
Read moreThe Biddles! “We will be there with our dancin’ shoes!” Michelle & Her Hot Date... “Wouldn’t miss it!”
Read moreNot only did my dress come in but I got a cute RSVP today! Greg and Denise, “Cheers to your love!”
Read moreAs you might have read from a previous post, I got my dress in Monday! Today was my fitting! My friend Rachael was sweet enough to go with me because I was a little nervous! It fit! No alterations!! Yahoo! I also got a veil, a beautiful hair peice, shoes, and…
Read moreYou guessed it… I’m putting together our song list for the wedding! I’m hoping for some serious bootie shakin’!! So here’s your chance! Any music requests? If so, put your ideas in the comment section here on the blog!
Read moreBrett really wants a Cally. I’ve been trying to con him into something else, but perhaps something like below would be nice while incorporating the roses out of my bouquet? Wrapped Stems, beautiful huh? This is what my florist has done in the past!
Read moreChecking the mail is so much fun these days!! Click on the image to see more detail… Kim & Tim Samia & Georg Troy, Meghan, and Nate
Read moreAfter a long wait…My beautiful dress came in and I can schedule a fitting! Yahoo! 🙂
Read moreA special thank you to all the lovely ladies who were able to celebrate with me this weekend at the shower and bachelorette parties. I had a fantastic time! All of your friendship, love and support means the world to me! I look forward to sharing our wedding…
Read moreToday I did a little happy dance as I saw the FIRST RSVP in my mail box. (Oh well, the neighbors think I’m crazy already!) Jerry and Ginger’s RSVP is above! Thank you for making my day!
Read moreAs many of you know, this Friday, my lovely Matron of Honor and Bridesmaids hosted a Bridal Shower for me! It all started at 6:30 May 25th where I was welcomed many of my fabulous friends and family. Renee’s house was cozy and festive, and the display of…
Read more“Please come and join Jennifer’s family and friends as we celebrate JENNIFER SHATOS, our favorite bride-to-be! We all know Jennifer will be counting down to the big day. With barely over a month to go, this will be the perfect time to surround Jennifer with…
Read moreToday, Brett and I had dinner at Cactus in Kirkland. After enjoying our food on the deck while soaking in a little sun, we walked up the street to see if this consignment shop had anything worth while (I’ve never found ANYTHING good in a consignment shop…
Read moreNO…NOT MINE! 🙂 (Phew!) Although not wedding related, my dear pals Heather and Jeremy have called to let me know they are pregnant! Of course, Heather is excited and is being very cute. She has called me 4 times in the last 24 hours, and called everyone who is…
Read moreToday I ordered our toasting glasses… we chose silver instead of glass so they would last longer. First item with my new last name! Weird!
Read moreBoy, I’m on a roll! After stewing over what to get the guys, Brett and I just picked out the groomsman gifts. I am excited to see the “real” thing once they arrive!
Read moreThis will be under constant update as we get closer to the wedding, so please continue to check back. Wednesday, July 4th Gasworks Park Join us anytime after 3 pm! (We may be switching this to our house and fireworks in Kirkland. Check back to find out more…
Read moreAfter many weeks of tedious composing (and a few straglers left)… invites should be arriving in our guests mailbox next week. I think it will be a few years before I get another insane idea to do really complicated designs and assembly! Overall, I had a lot…
Read moreOf course, there is a ton of hotel options in the area. Here are just a select few for our guests looking for hotel options: (Of course, feel free to email or call us and tell us what you are looking for–we’ll help you find just the right room!) Country Inn &…
Read more“I am now Reverend Whitney McConnell of the Universal Life Church Monastery of Seattle (on Broadway… go figure!) Please treat me with the respect a Reverend deserves!” Hehehehe! Whitney
Read moreKeep your eyes out for our custom ordered wedding stamps on your invitations (with fun custom icons!)
Read moreIt’s official. ONE WHOLE INVITE IS DONE! Tomrrow I am going to go purchase the paper (hope they have it all!) and get started on the next 59. Watch for your custom designed invite in the mail soon!
Read moreOur friend Matt has been so generous to take care of our ceremony and reception music needs. Today I met with him and we looked at the space to figure out speakers. It was nice to check another thing off the list and have someone you can absolutely trust take…
Read moreMy fantastic wedding photographers, “Jen and Jody Photography” have chosen a new logo from the designs we provided!
Read moreThis AM, Renee and I met at Cafe Ladro (best place for a caramel macchiato by the way!) to discuss wedding and shower plans. For those of you who do not know, the shower is taking place May 25th. Details to follow. With so many of my girlfriends offering up…
Read moreWhitney’s Officiant Outfit Whitney, Samia, Sarah, and I kicked of “girl day” by getting our nails done at Tina’s nails. It was a great time that was full of laughs–and some bright nail polish! After, we headed up to Alderwood mall. Samia was on a mission for…
Read moreToday was THE DAY to do invitations with Whitney and Rachael. Big plans were made. In hind sight, 1 bottle of champagne, and nearly 1 bottle of vodka might not have been a great idea to consume between the 3 of us in 3.5 hours. BUT, the upside is we sure did…
Read moreDoes anyone know the name of this flower? I found it in pink today at Top Foods, so pretty!
Read moreToday, we found our wedding bands! After looking for a couple months, we narrowed it down to a more classic style for me, and a Mokume Gane style for Brett. We drove to Olympia to where Karyn works. Brett placed an order his (I’ll post photos when it comes…
Read moreMaybe something plain but elegant… Or maybe I could have more fun… (alhtough that includes making yet, another item!)
Read moreUPDATE: 120 days to go. 124 items on my to do list. 60 completed! Time to start thinking of ideas if I am going to venture out and make my own necklace. I think because my dress has no beading… I could go a little crazy on the jewelry. Here are some…
Read moreI was going to let it be a suprise… but I’m too excited! Today, I found the perfect shoes! I was at the bridal shop with Rachael, and they had the perfect PINK shoes! They match the flowergirl dress (the only other pink item in the wedding party) perfectly…
Read moreToday, Rachael was kind enough to invite me to give my opinion (!) on the final 3 dresses she is trying to choose between for her August 4th wedding date! We arrived at Bellevue Bridal and she started trying her 1st dress on. I got distracted in the shoes…
Read moreToday, I did searched around for a sapphire wedding band. I think it may compliment my ring quite nicely, but I am also worried I may not want a blue stone on my finger all the time. I found two in NYC: (oh darn, I might have to travel there!) or
Read moreIsn’t she lovely? Lucy and I met February 11th. We fell in love and I drove her home that night. She’s fun, sporty, and of course… adorable.
Read moreIt’s official, I now have a lovely wedding gown. It’s the perfect one I think. Simple and glamorous, a look has roughly been in my mind all along. I went and got my measurements taken and paid for 1/2. I also took off the butt corsage and added satin buttons…
Read moreWe’ve already done a little browsing a few weeks ago, but here are some of my favorite bridesmaid dresses and comments from the bridal party: Renee – Cute. Heather – I like this one the best. Gloria – 1st favorite. Renee – Cute Heather – Second favorite.…
Read moreI am writing to let all our guests know where we will be staying the night of our wedding- July 7, 2007. We were going to hold off and send this information with our invitation–but, there are only 20 rooms remaining. Unfortunately, because there are limited…
Read moreToday, we are feeling a little tierd. It’s slow moving for us after our 3 am night. We make it to Mom’s Maids and More where Heather tried on Bridesmaid Dresses. Our laughter ingulfed the dressing room and we had a great time. We also checked out Nordstrom’s,…
Read moreToday, we start by swinging by Court in the Square. It’s all very exciting because it is the first time I have seen the location being prepared for a wedding! I think I have some better ideas of the layout now (mostly what I didn’t like!) and it was fun…
Read moreOk, today was the big dress day. We started our first appointment at 11:30 at Amanda’s Bridal. Amanda was so kind and created a comfortable fun experience for us. I tried on SEVERAL dresses and began to narrow down what styles I liked.Heather got into town…
Read moreby Eben Eugene Rexford. The little things are the big things. It is never being too old to hold hands. It is remembering to say “I love you” at least once a day. It is never going to sleep angry, It is at no time taking the other for granted; the courtship…
Read moreHeather is coming to help me wedding plan January 12th – 14th. I will be trying on Dresses for the first time with an audience (Renee, Mom, and Heather). I feel pretty nervous and have had some pretty crazy dreams over the last couple of nights. (Dress…
Read moreCongratulations to our dear friends Samia & Georg! They are now a happily married couple who have returned from their whirl-wind Germany wedding and Spain Honeymoon! Enjoy this sweet wedding photo: Samia & Georg Kornweibel December 28, 2006 Germany
Read moreWhitney and I have been busy planning the “big event” all week. Our theme is NAUGHTY AND NICE. We have all the fun prizes, food, etc planned out and think we are all set. On Wednesday, Seattle gets a huge windstorm knocking out power for 3 days and now we’re…
Read moreToday I met with and decided on my florist. She’s a entrepreneurial gal who has the combination of style and price that I am looking for. We spent a lot of time talking, and she gave me a lot of great ideas. I am pretty excited about working with Hopper…
Read moreAfter tormenting the lady at the Post Office for just the right “Save the Date” stamps… I decided nothing was quite right. So, Brett reminded me of my online photo stamp service from www.stamps.com. Brilliant. I had totally forgot about this! Keep your eyes…
Read moreWith the exception that I thought the appointment was at 11:30 instead of 11:00, cake tasting went surprisingly well. Not being huge cake fans…. Brett and I had pretty low expectations. They had 8 or 9 flavors available on a platter ready for us to consume. I…
Read moreTonight, Renee and I played with some more centerpiece ideas (while drinking a few martini’s of course!) We combined flowers, rocks, and crackled candleholders. Sort of pretty. Then… We ventured into seeing how hard it is to make bouquets (crazy thoughts!).…
Read moreWell, after a few days preparing for the wedding, we all survived! A lot to do, but in the end it came together quite nicely! Heather was a beautiful bride, and we had a great time (maybe a little too much fun!! 🙂 ) We are lucky to have a wedding at the same…
Read moreToday Mom, Renee, and I went to the Bridal show. I wasn’t super impressed with the vendors (or lack there of), but none the less–it was fun quality time. I tried on a couple of dresses (blah), and we attended the fashion show which was entertaining.
Read moreAfter freaking out on Friday after the first 8 photographers I heard back from were booked–I finally got in gear to find a photographer. I have spent the last 3 days researching, corresponding, and meeting. Today, I met with J & J photography and hit it off.…
Read moreToday, Brett and I went to West Seattle to work on our ceremony plan and start our vows. We checked out a book from the library which had about 12 questions to go through before starting our vows. We had a great conversation and have a good foundation for our…
Read moreWe traveled over to Clarkston this weekend for several parties–Shower, Bachelor, Bachelorette. Friday night was the shower, which was nice. After, everyone was invited to meet up with the men at Heather and Jeremy’s House. Alchohol came out, and things got…
Read moreThis weekend we are out camping at Fort Casey. Renee, Scott, Tyler & Carson were exploring the beach and finding rocks for the big day while Brett went scuba diving. Carson worked very hard, asking me, “Jenni is this one approvable?” and Scott dug with a…
Read morebamboo * Three stalks – brings Fu (Happiness), Lu (Health) and Soh (longevity) * Five stalks – Represents the five different parts of life from which wealth comes. * Six stalks – Brings Six stalks – Brings prosperity and favorable conditions. * Seven stalks –…
Read moreToday we decided the wedding will be at Court in the Square in Pioneer Square. I feel like this site is much more suited for our wedding size. It’s also nice because it feels like it’s in an outdoor setting, but it’s inside–no need to worry about weather!…
Read moreThis weekend mom and I shopped all over for some centerpiece ideas. I am thrilled that we figured two ideas out. One is with daisies, and another with bamboo. The photo above is the photo of one part of the centerpiece. They will be on mirrors with candles.
Read morePravda Studios I took Mom, Renee and Carson to visit the reception site… for a final opinion! They both seemed to like it and weren’t too concerned about the size (2500 square feet, with a 5,00 square foot potential). I left a deposit to hold our date until…
Read moreToday we went down to Olympia and Brett’s Mom helped us pick out our wedding rings! I was so excited that we found the perfect set! We chose simple and elegant. My ring is a small band of diamonds and looks really fantastic with my engagement ring. Brett’s…
Read more4/21 Pier 57 Bay Pavillion http://pier57seattle.com/catering.html Location: Downtown Seattle Brett is out of town so I asked my brother Larry to join me for this site visit. I’m excited since this will be the first site I’ve visited!! There was a tasting and…
Read more“Did Brett Slip and fall due to the icy conditions or does that somewhat familiar pose have other significance?? If he fell, Brett you spaz. If other…” HOLY SHIT!! Call me!!” ~Renee Petrie, Sister of the Bride (in response to the photos we sent via text…
Read moreA perfect way to celebrate… Thank you to the Petrie’s! Bonefish Martini’s. 2 oz Vodka 2 oz Cranberry Juice 2 oz Champagne Combine Vodka and Cranberry Juice in shaker. Pour into martini glass, top with 2 oz Champagne. Enjoy!
Read moreOn our flight home, Brett and I discussed wedding music. I hate the “Here comes the bride song” so I refuse to walk down to that. Brett immediately suggested two songs from Notting Hill: (I was addicted to the movie Notting Hill when it came out!). “She” by…
Read moreTime to head back to Seattle. A week in Philly with our friends Gloria and Kevin has been more then perfect. Personally, it’s given me time to process being a BRIDE (!) and wake up every morning to fun conversations about the possibilities of where, when,…
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