The night before the big day, Deborah and I were up late watching X-Files episodes and finishing last minute projects. We also realized at 1am that we needed to pack some items in a suitcase since we wouldn’t be home for two days. We definitely woke up later than planned. Thankfully, bridesmate Adrienne, who also happens to be our next door neighbor, brought us Starbucks at 9am. I wasn’t as awake as I wanted to be, but the Starbucks definitely helped.
We left together for our hair appointments, with Deborah’s being first. Bridesmate Beth met us at the salon, so Deborah could leave after her appointment to start getting ready. Deborah and I said our goodbyes– this would be the last time I saw her until our ‘First Look’ right before photos.
After my hair appointment, Beth and I headed up to the venue (with a quick stop for a Sugar Free Red Bull– what can I say I’m a little addicted to the stuff). We arrived with a bevy of things– water bottles, my dress, Beth’s dress and a few extra crafty things. My bridal brigade (code name: Team Awesome) met us downstairs to carry stuff in.
Arriving at the venue!
Once in the fantastic bridal suite, we got into the getting ready groove. Our room was quiet and nostalgic. We told funny stories while my make-up artist worked on making me look bridal-y. It was a pleasant energy, almost like humming with anticipation! Every now and then we would hear loud peels of laughter or cheers of “Yaaaaaay!” from Deborah’s room. It was a definite departure from our peaceful room and each little shout of happiness we could hear always made us laugh. The energy of our rooms was definitely a true representation of Deborah and my personalities. It makes me smile every time I think about it!
Once I was all made-up and purty, it was time to put on my dress! I was so excited and nervous– I hadn’t tried on the dress since my final alteration. I knew it would fit, but you know– seems like something that would go wrong, so I was nervous none the less.
It fit!
I think it was around this time I was struck with OMG I’M GETTING MARRIED TODAY.
My Step-Mother Gigi had to put my necklace on for me because I was so excited that I couldn't work the clasp.
Katherine captured one of my many 'Oh My Goodness! Today we get married!' moments.
A sweet moment with my best-y Jeff.
I had grown my hair out for a little over a year with the expectation of wearing it down on the wedding day. Sadly, it was too windy to really do that, so I compromised and wore it in a low styled pony tail. In the end, I’m super glad I wasn’t worrying about getting hair out of my face all day long!
My Papa stops by to say hello.
Before I headed to the place where we would do our ‘First Look’, Team Awesome took a moment to celebrate our pending nuptials!
Hooray!
All images by Katherine O’Brien Photography
Up Next: Getting Ready– Deborah Edition.
You look stunning! So beautiful!
Gorgeous! I love the red pop of your bolero. Michelle, where did you get your hairpiece from? I’m considering something similar for our wedding.
I love that last photo! So so awesome.
Lili! Thank you! My bolero was from the etsy shop Crimson Empress (http://www.etsy.com/shop/Countessa?ref=seller_info) and both my hair piece and Deborah’s were from hemsandbustles (http://www.etsy.com/shop/hemsandbustles?ref=pr_shop_more) Both shops have loads of beautiful things! And both do custom orders as well!
You seriously look like Kate Winslet, Michelle. AMAZING!
You look absolutely amazing, seeing these photos is such a treat!
I absolutely love these photos and you look amazing in them.
[...] have much to say about Deborah’ getting ready photos because I wasn’t there. We were getting ready over in the next room. We did hear lots and lots of cheers and laughter! I asked Deborah if she wanted to say a few [...]
That red caplet is TO DIE FOR!!! Can you name your source for it? I must have one. Of course I’ll understand if you want to keep your well kept secret to yourself :)
Gorgeous, just gorgeous.
Michelle!
where did you all get your rings from? My partner and I live in Austin and are on the search.
thanks!
AC- My bolero is from Crimson Empress (link above in a previous comment)! A lovely shop with tons of options!
Britt-
We actually got them at the outlet mall just outside of Houston– Deborah’s set and my wedding band are from Kays and my engagement ring was from Zales. Both sets were over 60% off… I highly encourage you to check out outlet malls! I’m sure the ones near San Marcos probably have jewelry stores too!
Do you have a photographer yet? If not, give Katherine a call because you will NOT regret it! And congrats on your engagement!