tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-956200422869621182024-02-19T05:15:59.508-06:00Not Your Average White DressThis is memoir of our engagement and wedding planning. We are doing things a little differently. Our wedding will not be designed traditionally, it will definitely be modern and unique! ENJOY!Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02338118296249367244noreply@blogger.comBlogger11125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95620042286962118.post-33360128524995507522011-02-09T14:01:00.000-06:002011-02-09T14:01:18.838-06:00Our Official Wedding WebsiteOur official wedding website is up and running! Thanks to <a href="http://www.benfieldphotography.net/">Benfield Photography</a> for creating our custom, one-of-a-kind website. It suits us perfectly! I really like all of our engagement pictures Dale used to create the site. Learn more about how we met and how Tyler proposed! Check it out <a href="http://www.tylerandmarissa.benfieldphotography.com/">here</a> and enjoy browsing through all the pages!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tylerandmarissa.benfieldphotography.com/">www.tylerandmarissa.benfieldphotography.com</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBJo-vguwVAbBhDsrSZbFY8jgcPtUVWiyUNVirMeyEoBgdBZtaY8TM7VsUf0P3hW87nQHa-kEbO8fQFaKWAKdRBvDNJBv_UFsE8WNfydm8nl535XLjuBZ2efcQ3yE8OIZCEjMscrNdJt9/s1600/0071+engagement+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBJo-vguwVAbBhDsrSZbFY8jgcPtUVWiyUNVirMeyEoBgdBZtaY8TM7VsUf0P3hW87nQHa-kEbO8fQFaKWAKdRBvDNJBv_UFsE8WNfydm8nl535XLjuBZ2efcQ3yE8OIZCEjMscrNdJt9/s640/0071+engagement+pic.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02338118296249367244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95620042286962118.post-48962425260674250122011-02-04T23:31:00.000-06:002011-02-04T23:31:38.369-06:00We are featured on Etsy!I could not believe my eyes when I was researching wedding things for our wedding when OUR welcome boxes were featured under "wedding boxes"! Every <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> experience I've had has been absolutely perfect and wonderful! I can't show you everything because some things are surprises, but here's what I can show you!<br />
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Ring Bearer Pillows by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/woomi">Woomi</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpZlN5fF_J2Gu1qmjutRrUc-9-CfOD1Gh62eCLV1V7PqjexSh7llsL9vIPNwvKZu3OV1_2nwpb9NH9u0Kn1_pxQSpQwdJQzROn_vIrN7NMT6Wdfyt78KUIaRkEoda289dmfzqg7dgxxA47/s1600/ring+bearer+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpZlN5fF_J2Gu1qmjutRrUc-9-CfOD1Gh62eCLV1V7PqjexSh7llsL9vIPNwvKZu3OV1_2nwpb9NH9u0Kn1_pxQSpQwdJQzROn_vIrN7NMT6Wdfyt78KUIaRkEoda289dmfzqg7dgxxA47/s320/ring+bearer+pillow.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Toasting Flutes by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/mightyfinds">Mighty Finds</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9yLzRz2IfH_UpzCp1trOQgicvbauzt0DIt4pnOy7EDN9m6Uio75tUqM_t2ojUmITbJNCuC11arvE-rlpjnEjOp-et7U5Fm_KZd4O0pHpHh4oz6sk7RkhTooP73zw_NXkBCsqS9bddy3SI/s1600/toasting+flutes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9yLzRz2IfH_UpzCp1trOQgicvbauzt0DIt4pnOy7EDN9m6Uio75tUqM_t2ojUmITbJNCuC11arvE-rlpjnEjOp-et7U5Fm_KZd4O0pHpHh4oz6sk7RkhTooP73zw_NXkBCsqS9bddy3SI/s320/toasting+flutes.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
Crossword Puzzle for the Welcome Boxes by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/LoveSmartDesign?ref=pr_shop_more">LoveSmartDesigns</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigr_OxsLBiN4YssDHQGm-B6Dor2NNKNOsxNhz1sQ0ZxQNXUQalBxcm81NDLKzcMn16xnpNjmowxMEjewmu3JsJH9256SJePTP-KSc3CW9gV0aizq4hk1pg94zXACaqqvVQrH5fDNU125Rk/s1600/crossword.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigr_OxsLBiN4YssDHQGm-B6Dor2NNKNOsxNhz1sQ0ZxQNXUQalBxcm81NDLKzcMn16xnpNjmowxMEjewmu3JsJH9256SJePTP-KSc3CW9gV0aizq4hk1pg94zXACaqqvVQrH5fDNU125Rk/s320/crossword.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Welcome Boxes by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/EverAfterNY?ref=seller_info">EverAfterNY</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigitQj3OlcLhHfQvfoGj0-aZ3yvS2OgiVO3C8S-L6QkggQ9gJEDpVo3CextYS1ZaQ8f8ZfMLY4O41I1-sQ1AEUOF5sGwMf-8XpiRr443GSdFn71kogY8n4KGRVTEcDL5Hgwt9f3nG42Gtn/s1600/welcome+boxes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigitQj3OlcLhHfQvfoGj0-aZ3yvS2OgiVO3C8S-L6QkggQ9gJEDpVo3CextYS1ZaQ8f8ZfMLY4O41I1-sQ1AEUOF5sGwMf-8XpiRr443GSdFn71kogY8n4KGRVTEcDL5Hgwt9f3nG42Gtn/s320/welcome+boxes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Look it's our design! I hope our guests will love them when they arrive to their hotel rooms!<br />
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All the details are coming together! I love it!Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02338118296249367244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95620042286962118.post-81096096823231011562011-01-27T22:09:00.000-06:002011-01-27T22:09:30.714-06:00Our Save the DatesAnd they are out... Our Save the Dates are featured on the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Ftinyurl.com%2F4az3fak&h=74e88">Sincerely Yours Paper blog</a> today! I absolutely love Mrs. Amy Hannon. She's a sweet, sugar soaked swatch of linen with sprinkles on top... Yup, I said it! When I first met Amy, of course, it was raining so I knew her talents and our super, unique wedding were a perfect match. I remember telling her to go crazy creative with our "paper lovelies" as Amy likes to describe her creations. I really was open to anything modern, luxurious, and colorful! I randomly found the seed packet Save the Date idea online. We tried to figure out the best way to get everything in one and we did... thanks to Amy! Stay tuned for more of the SYP goodness that will DEFINITELY be a part of our wedding!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJwVPyhsJcwFqhN7V3ZE4TqnOmQZGSutGRP4zXbwpgTDQT5H89YLJ24EzC_A4LVpjSx70SnV0I_obZRhdf5gJdeoJpMcWFziqmiTl2g7_8rJYZBKoTh8liISKVBMY70OvPxBP9DOfo9T-s/s1600/save+the+date.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJwVPyhsJcwFqhN7V3ZE4TqnOmQZGSutGRP4zXbwpgTDQT5H89YLJ24EzC_A4LVpjSx70SnV0I_obZRhdf5gJdeoJpMcWFziqmiTl2g7_8rJYZBKoTh8liISKVBMY70OvPxBP9DOfo9T-s/s1600/save+the+date.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJwVPyhsJcwFqhN7V3ZE4TqnOmQZGSutGRP4zXbwpgTDQT5H89YLJ24EzC_A4LVpjSx70SnV0I_obZRhdf5gJdeoJpMcWFziqmiTl2g7_8rJYZBKoTh8liISKVBMY70OvPxBP9DOfo9T-s/s1600/save+the+date.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieMLBhwUg84ZZnG85x0JtzUZGihDSbVOItHt3phjiH5LBGnnbzg65u-brVVDazLk6mgQztEta3hKn1HJ2t45PNvKmPvW1o3RWxsEs49PBb-VtQ6A4bR7ySWj_RNxQlLHcpLZZajciPgEhW/s1600/save+the+date2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieMLBhwUg84ZZnG85x0JtzUZGihDSbVOItHt3phjiH5LBGnnbzg65u-brVVDazLk6mgQztEta3hKn1HJ2t45PNvKmPvW1o3RWxsEs49PBb-VtQ6A4bR7ySWj_RNxQlLHcpLZZajciPgEhW/s1600/save+the+date2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
* Photos courtesy of Amy Hannon - Sincerely Yours Paper<br />
* Thanks <a href="http://www.benfieldphotography.com/">Benfield Photography</a> for the great picture!Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02338118296249367244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95620042286962118.post-38746531421934298252011-01-18T18:29:00.001-06:002011-02-09T16:00:07.831-06:00Honeymoon Booked - CHECKI think Tyler and I are probably the most excited about our honeymoon. We decided to splurge a little bit since your honeymoon will ideally be the ONLY one you'll ever take. We also noted that we have never been on a vacation where it was just us... no parents, siblings, puppies, etc. So we narrowed it down to two places: Maui or Bora Bora. Of course, we chose Bora Bora! It is truly a once in a lifetime spot we will more than likely never see again. Have you seen the movie, "Couples Retreat"? Well, that's the place!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVnW26ISp6XciHNKSlQOfnhV_FKaAi5V657mq9fKqqm6gyBp-uhREIo_-YdCxljD1ytl4tfaiylibkD-78qCHiokLJY77xJR4kJEZJbVI5YN0nElzDrHZu4zhyvcYLmyCl6u0yuQ08o3es/s1600/Hilton+Bora+Bora.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVnW26ISp6XciHNKSlQOfnhV_FKaAi5V657mq9fKqqm6gyBp-uhREIo_-YdCxljD1ytl4tfaiylibkD-78qCHiokLJY77xJR4kJEZJbVI5YN0nElzDrHZu4zhyvcYLmyCl6u0yuQ08o3es/s1600/Hilton+Bora+Bora.jpg" /></a></div><br />
It's called <a href="http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/PPTBNHI-Hilton-Bora-Bora-Nui-Resort-Spa/index.do">Bora Bora Nui Hilton Resort and Spa</a>. It isn't your "Sandals" of the world. We wanted an authentic experience with seclusion. At the Hilton Bora Bora, the only means of transportation to your room is by boat! Yeah, that's why we picked it! It's extremely secluded with just our bunch of bungalows and the glass viewing floors to see the exotic marine life float underneath your feet! Or it could turn into a hip nightlife by traveling just 20 minutes to the mainland where there is excellent shopping! And you better believe I'm saving up my money to buy authentic Tahitian black pearls.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKcH3STJLqjfsS6NwuEs930irbwhYOiNDohhyphenhyphenguCAgIG8qZSx-zpGkyzM7bn_6hl4YU5lRXX_rzLRaNpznrM6UV404UZEI7BE3PpJjhWQJUXs_eXn526r4jXaj5yIULlblfRdBsXtaZxZ/s1600/Tahitian+Black+Pearls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKcH3STJLqjfsS6NwuEs930irbwhYOiNDohhyphenhyphenguCAgIG8qZSx-zpGkyzM7bn_6hl4YU5lRXX_rzLRaNpznrM6UV404UZEI7BE3PpJjhWQJUXs_eXn526r4jXaj5yIULlblfRdBsXtaZxZ/s320/Tahitian+Black+Pearls.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">We are so excited for our vacation! I'm ready for us to celebrate our wedding day with our family and friends then ride off into the sunset for our trip to the Southern Hemisphere on the island of Bora Bora. Wake me up... I think I'm dreaming!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Here's where we will be. It's the little dot way far away from reality. Just where I want to be on my honeymoon.</span></span></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><br />
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</div>Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02338118296249367244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95620042286962118.post-41885899589202584402010-09-26T23:16:00.001-05:002010-09-27T21:46:47.336-05:00Our Posse<div style="text-align: left;">I've been holding on to this post until the time was right and it feels real good right about now!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4rLP6ASDcfaqkFLJlm42zzksOoIc9b9NFrAqhyOPxmQnkiyDcL0ci3Y3NwLML9oe3AzYNB4edM1IQK3z9BCxL0TZ5iqQdXvLdRi1ERV-07_KPBQMyISyCf048NsBbrwL8ekyBH5XRfAP_/s1600/jamie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4rLP6ASDcfaqkFLJlm42zzksOoIc9b9NFrAqhyOPxmQnkiyDcL0ci3Y3NwLML9oe3AzYNB4edM1IQK3z9BCxL0TZ5iqQdXvLdRi1ERV-07_KPBQMyISyCf048NsBbrwL8ekyBH5XRfAP_/s200/jamie.jpg" width="152" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Jamie</b> - Maid of Honor</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">She is not only my "little" sister in Alpha Delta Pi, but also holds half of my heart. She has been a part of my life for quite some time since our dads are good friends. I could not imagine my life without Jamie. I would do anything for her and I know the favor would be returned. Every day I think about how proud I am of her and the woman she has become. She and I have been through a lot together and I am so thankful for her undying friendship and love. I am so excited about our future!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<b>Lacey</b> - Matron of Honor</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Oh, my precious Lacey! She is my "big" sister in Alpha Delta Pi and I could NOT ask for a better one! During the time of my life when I grew the most, college, she was there to guide me into the woman I am today. She inspires and motivates me to be the best that I can possibly be. I adore Lacey and I truly am the luckiest girl in the world just by having her in my life. We have an innate connection that will last an eternity and can never be duplicated. She holds the other half of my heart.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Zi3bWwBNT8gKb-AftuxZlz6OVtyllD9LfFRGEzrZvR_HLvaSVKuO6N3VkUT-PH4DLdcho62wYz0NrUTFi201Ykgg6wPn-_1Khv39bSYI5kMgWdLiMI8vtZNXPu5imPoiAByDx-f8xZ06/s1600/Rachel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Zi3bWwBNT8gKb-AftuxZlz6OVtyllD9LfFRGEzrZvR_HLvaSVKuO6N3VkUT-PH4DLdcho62wYz0NrUTFi201Ykgg6wPn-_1Khv39bSYI5kMgWdLiMI8vtZNXPu5imPoiAByDx-f8xZ06/s200/Rachel.jpg" width="145" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Rachel</b> - Bridesmaid</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Rachel came into my life at the perfect time - senior year of college. I cannot explain how quick of a connection we had. It was as if we had known each other our entire lives and I knew we couldn't be anything other than friends for life. We both have the same career, personal, and family values... No matter how often we talk, it seems as if it were just yesterday since we last spoke. It's only through true friendship that makes that possible. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguJDY_s6yW_vevs4PZeof7czd_tH_XY6e43XIwq7mmJwFaOTavSf4YUbDeTlQRGlTkIui7GWB9Ez_0vuiR3ccYEaeYNmQxl2bVoXm7sWOcapRfUpyJ-d0IxKrHZwbW1yRpIkXDCNyhBuPo/s1600/Ashlee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguJDY_s6yW_vevs4PZeof7czd_tH_XY6e43XIwq7mmJwFaOTavSf4YUbDeTlQRGlTkIui7GWB9Ez_0vuiR3ccYEaeYNmQxl2bVoXm7sWOcapRfUpyJ-d0IxKrHZwbW1yRpIkXDCNyhBuPo/s200/Ashlee.jpg" width="141" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Ashlee</b> - Bridesmaid</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">She is my "seeing eye dog" - the most loyal and true friend. We have known each other for only a short time, but how quickly our friendship has blossomed. Ashlee and I work together and see each other at our best and at our worst, which is a necessity in a friendship. My support system was not complete without her. God, placed her in my life to be my ground and my rock. She makes me want to be the best that I can be... for me and no one else. I cannot imagine my current life today without Ashlee in it. I know my days wouldn't be as joyful.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Sara</b> - Bridesmaid</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Sara and I have known each other since second grade. We have played sports against and with each other. Then when the only people we knew in college were each other, I knew our friendship could never be replaced. As freshman roommates we learned how to live on our own, how to "study", and how to navigate the new phase we entered. Our experiences will never be forgotten and our friendship will never fade. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvhN4TZ7qjC_ef1FU9gWaipbePAYuDo4wNTSxZALBgCBxVIHOJU2QKmZ_URpclWmsxqXeIRDjGUojuYwQ0IByAsQfs2qGP_gbzZbluj-fOqlavmVLZRFy6ODJKgkJ7zHaaInScDUCnCEdj/s1600/Kallie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvhN4TZ7qjC_ef1FU9gWaipbePAYuDo4wNTSxZALBgCBxVIHOJU2QKmZ_URpclWmsxqXeIRDjGUojuYwQ0IByAsQfs2qGP_gbzZbluj-fOqlavmVLZRFy6ODJKgkJ7zHaaInScDUCnCEdj/s200/Kallie.jpg" width="148" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Kallie</b> - Bridesmaid (Tyler's sister)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">My future sister, who in the beginning felt I was taking her big brother away from her. I cherish Kallie and already consider her my sister. She is turning into a beautiful young lady who knows what she wants in life and has the ambition to achieve her goals. She is an amazing artist and an amazing friend. Anyone who truly knows Kallie can see her passion for people and can learn a lot from her. The people in her life should consider their selves lucky to be loved by a huge heart like Kallie's. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">I could not imagine my wedding day without these amazing women right beside me. The combination of their friendships make my life more enriched and blessed with each day that passes. Words cannot express my gratitude for their friendships and love. Each of them has a special place in my heart that cannot be removed or replaced. They are always in my heart, on my mind, and a part of my soul...<br />
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<b>Josh </b>- Best Man<br />
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Josh and I have been friends for quite some time! We went to elementary school together and remained friends throughout high school. Josh is such a true friend to both of us! We knew long before we were engaged that we wanted Josh to be a part of our special day! I love Josh like a brother and I know Tyler really enjoys his company whether it be hunting, working, or fishing! Growing up on "The Creek" together, Tyler and Josh have been lifelong friends and we plan on keeping him around!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7DbS3sBPZv2LxBxVzGt9RlQrVPlBNfVM_3mcPfeBY3ijiM2Ttgy5rnYtEbkkaKXk0ARR_0-6COcrVFNAmQczFcVNd261G6zGUI0J_AHuXzOE9dkbL0jvcoI_UpC0HKveni6xO_4I9T9An/s1600/Matt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7DbS3sBPZv2LxBxVzGt9RlQrVPlBNfVM_3mcPfeBY3ijiM2Ttgy5rnYtEbkkaKXk0ARR_0-6COcrVFNAmQczFcVNd261G6zGUI0J_AHuXzOE9dkbL0jvcoI_UpC0HKveni6xO_4I9T9An/s200/Matt.jpg" width="151" /></a></div><br />
</div><b>Matt </b>- Groomsman<br />
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Matt and I grew up in the same small town and our grandfathers are really good friends. Tyler and Matt became good friends in college and have remained close since then. Their favorite pastime would definitely have to be mudding, hunting, or bow fishing. Matt and his girlfriend, Jessie, were in on Tyler's proposal scheme. They took our pictures and celebrated with us after I said, "YES"! I honestly couldn't have asked for better friends to spend that exciting moment with!<br />
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<b>Clay </b>- Groomsman<br />
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I would give credit to Clay for Tyler and I becoming "us." The first time I met Tyler was at Clay's house. Tyler and Clay grew up on "The Creek" together. They've shared many bike wrecks, four wheeler accidents, and cruises down the "strip." Clay has such a kind heart and caring personality. I'm glad he will be by Tyler's side on our wedding day!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJbmTRX-at0w06vwxyH68k2HuJ9vP4Z0Al4mcoiwS8N7JJkKtMshlVQ973urgHhAUMEW4IGILvgzBIngoG_su72oJNjgzEfgIkJ-ySn9AKI55AMWQYuj6PjP9HAisSh_6C-9XdOPh9qlKH/s1600/Corey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJbmTRX-at0w06vwxyH68k2HuJ9vP4Z0Al4mcoiwS8N7JJkKtMshlVQ973urgHhAUMEW4IGILvgzBIngoG_su72oJNjgzEfgIkJ-ySn9AKI55AMWQYuj6PjP9HAisSh_6C-9XdOPh9qlKH/s200/Corey.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><br />
<b>Corey </b>- Groomsman<br />
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Corey will make you laugh. Anytime I'm around him I know that I'll have a good time! Tyler and Corey went to elementary school together and throughout their lives they have remained close friends. He is a ball of fun and keeps life interesting! He shares the same passion with Tyler... duck hunting. He is a great person. He is there when Tyler needs him and will do anything for his friends.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEQJSRF11eComv8_2TAVvybxXi0n9cElqdSN99Bd41WNMf4jkC37MJ0CuFY9mbk2I3HjAHd49mfhKVqjFdzTj3mkFSPxqe1cyLOdaWTX7L5xuCUZ5gMX1P5dvhwQ-q5cD0o0UuMfaScTu4/s1600/Derek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEQJSRF11eComv8_2TAVvybxXi0n9cElqdSN99Bd41WNMf4jkC37MJ0CuFY9mbk2I3HjAHd49mfhKVqjFdzTj3mkFSPxqe1cyLOdaWTX7L5xuCUZ5gMX1P5dvhwQ-q5cD0o0UuMfaScTu4/s200/Derek.jpg" width="159" /></a></div><b>Derek </b>- Groomsman<br />
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Derek and I go WAY back... all the way to birth. Our mothers are best friends and they have remained that way for nearly 50 years. Derek and I had chicken pox together, got grounded from each other, played Nintendo games, and built our very own secret hideout! Derek and Tyler became friends through Matt. Of course, it was a sure deal with Derek and I having so much family history together. They both love the great outdoors and enjoy traveling to different parts of the nation to fulfill their passion, hunting. I love Derek like a brother and am so glad he and Tyler have become great friends!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLzGV_ZMnNVOxWjnLWh0VQLUmyQnRhHxhCBtKe3pnN9RNrEAeEyv6j6nLZDs2fz3EYhaM5npDmmQF-jMxLtAqHvICGUmvsFfFrKn8TVlKJdsYiLpWk3G9Yb4TUWVBJgXrojGPQRmvqgk1/s1600/Matthew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLzGV_ZMnNVOxWjnLWh0VQLUmyQnRhHxhCBtKe3pnN9RNrEAeEyv6j6nLZDs2fz3EYhaM5npDmmQF-jMxLtAqHvICGUmvsFfFrKn8TVlKJdsYiLpWk3G9Yb4TUWVBJgXrojGPQRmvqgk1/s200/Matthew.jpg" width="160" /></a></div><b>Matthew </b>- Groomsman (my brother)<br />
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I cannot begin to express how amazing of a brother I was blessed with... He is growing into an amazing young man who has a huge heart and genuine spirit. Matthew was the one who solidified my relationship with Tyler. Since my brother is such a major part of me, I knew his approval of Tyler was number one priority. Well approval of my family is an understatement when it comes to Tyler. Every single one of them adore Tyler, especially Matthew. Sometimes I wonder if Matthew even remembers my name when Tyler is present. I'm so glad he will be a part of our wedding in a big way. I could not ask for a better brother... he truly makes my world go around.<br />
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These guys keep Tyler happy day in and day out. I don't know what we would do without them in of our lives... I absolutely love when Tyler is around his friends and the "remember when" stories start happening.<br />
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We are so blessed to have such amazing friends that stick with us through thick and thin. I look forward to having everyone together, sharing this monumental experience with us. Without them our lives would not be complete.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02338118296249367244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95620042286962118.post-80118301518753545032010-08-22T19:40:00.000-05:002010-08-22T19:40:07.076-05:00My Facelift - for the BlogOne night, I was looking at all our wedding vendors' blogs just thinking about how lucky we were to have such great people working on our wedding. <br />
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Then... I came across something on Amy Hannon's, <a href="http://www.sincerelyyoursonline.blogspot.com/">Sincerely Yours Paper Blog</a> when I came across <a href="http://www.jengetsfancy.com/">Jen Gets Fancy</a>. She's a full-time mom, teacher by day, and a blog plastic surgeon by night... Yes, she gives blogs facelifts. And please look at the result. I absolutely love it!<br />
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I highly recommend Jen because she will take your vision and make it a reality. <br />
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So, thank you Jen for doing such an amazing job at giving my blog a facelift! I love our fresh new look.Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02338118296249367244noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95620042286962118.post-1856460786734572722010-07-21T22:46:00.000-05:002010-07-21T22:46:02.963-05:00Benfield Engagement Movie?!So naturally, I am a subscriber to <a href="http://benfieldphotography.blogspot.com">Benfield Photography's blog</a>. And I highly suggest you do the same. <br />
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As I'm reading about his precious daughters birthday, I am just admiring her cuteness and her great sense of style... Then all of a sudden I see a "Marissa and Tyler's engagement SNEAK PEEK + movie magic!" Movie magic? He didn't have a video camera during our session!<br />
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OMG! I had butterflies! After I told Tyler we were featured on the blog he said, "Oh man, I hope I don't look stupid next to you." We were both really nervous to see the "magic." Since Dale is super cool and super duper talented... and kind of a nerd (sorry, Dale) it was such a blessing for him to do something so unique and creative for us!<br />
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By the way, I would love to have the video on a thumb drive and loop it on my digital photo frame - that would be amazing!<br />
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So, here it is! Click below. (It's one picture, but notice what happens in the background!)<br />
<a href="http://benfieldphotography.blogspot.com/2010/07/marissa-and-tylers-engagement-sneak.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+benfieldphotography+%28.benfieldphotography%29">MOVIE MAGIC</a><br />
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<3 - Marissa - "The Future Mrs. Wells"Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02338118296249367244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95620042286962118.post-32024295082257682602010-07-17T00:03:00.000-05:002010-07-17T00:03:34.668-05:00Rain, Rain DON'T Go AwayRAIN - most people would think rain would be bad luck. Especially if rain pours down on a lot of important dates. But not us! We embrace the days when rain and importance intertwine. It gives us a sense of hope. Good luck and omen. And most importantly good faith - when a shadow is cast, we see the light.<br />
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The day we met - it poured. My first inkling of Tyler's "charm" was on this day. After we discovered it was raining, he offered to go get my car so I wouldn't have to walk in the downpour. Such the gentleman! <br />
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The day Tyler purchased his first "big boy" truck - it rained. After he moved to Fayetteville, he bought a new truck. Thank goodness the windshield wipers worked on the maroon Ford! We wouldn't have been able to cruise around Fay-town without them.<br />
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The day we searched endlessly for a place to temorarily be housed in Conway - it poured. We drove around neighborhoods looking for rental properties, got in/out of our car, experienced umbrella malfunctions; all the while, holding hands just as happy as can be. Especially knowing we were taking another step in our relationship: roomies!<br />
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The day we found and shortly thereafter moved into our first purchased home together (yes, two separate occassions) - it poured. Another hint of charm (I've mentioned just two of many in a five year time period), Tyler unloaded our belongings with the movers in the pouring rain. Even though it was late at night and we were tired, hungry, and sweaty; he helped them when he didn't have to at all. He was so willing to help them and I just stood in awe of how he was raised to be a gentleman.<br />
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And finally... THE DAY FOR OUR ENGAGEMENT PICTURES. Yeah, you guessed it. It poured. Out of nowhere. A severe thunderstorm. <a href="http://benfieldphotography.com/">Dale and Meredith</a> called to inform me that our pictures needed to be... POSTPONED. Oh no! The day I had dreamed about for five years was going to have to be rescheduled. I understand about cameras and hair and makeup and clothes, but seriously... RAIN IS KINDA OUR THING! Of course, Prince Tyler was there to save the minor meltdown I had. I was so disappointed that we didn't get to take a few, just a few, pictures in the rain. He told me several things to bring me back to reality, but one that sticks out in mind... "Dale and Meredith want our pictures to be perfect. The lighting isn't right. Rain will ruin their cameras and then what will we do... They won't be able to take our picture at all!" Then smitten, I smiled and admitted, "Yeah you're right, but rain in our thing!"<br />
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Because of our fortunate blessing of rain, we will be prepared for our outdoor ceremony on our Big Day. Our guests will be given a favor that will keep them dry and keep them shaded simultaneously. Yes, you guessed it... UMBRELLAS. Attached will be a little paper goody from <a href="http://www.sincerelyyoursonline.net/">Amy with Sincerely Yours Paper </a>explaining our rainy, lucky situation. <br />
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"And isn't it ironic; don't ya think."Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02338118296249367244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95620042286962118.post-82372237681540795872010-04-14T20:37:00.001-05:002010-07-16T22:16:57.262-05:00My Perfect DressOn March 27, 2010 at 6:00pm in Neiman's bridal boutique I ordered my wedding dress! The whole day of jam packed appointments was such a great experience and I am so thankful I was able to share it with my mom, my grandmother, and my best friend! <br />
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The day started off optimistic as we walked into Priscilla of Boston; however, as they opened the door for business - we were the first appointment - I realized I had forgotten my beautiful wedding shoes... Boo! But we weren't going to let that damper our day! The associate who help us there was phenomenal. She knew exactly my style in 5 minutes of talking with me. Amazing! I had two dresses chosen and I would have been perfectly happy with either! I had finished trying on wedding gowns in time for Jamie to try on bridesmaids dresses. We thought we had gotten off to a very productive start. <br />
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Our next appointment was at Warren Barron. I fell in love with the boutique and the selection they had. I also loved the staff. They were so genuine and precious. I recommend this bridal boutique to EVERYONE! During this appointment - something AMAZING happened. As I tried on gown after gown that I had picked out we just couldn't decide. They were all so gorgeous! But, there was one still on the rack that my mom had eyed on the internet a couple weeks back... So I thought I would give it a shot - you know to appease my mom. When I walked out of the dressing room in this gown... My mother, grandmother, and Jamie cried. We knew this one blew the previous appointments' dresses out of the water... Now we narrowed down to four styles; two of which were totally not what I had originally wanted in my wedding gown. I left Warren Barron feeling confused, exhausted, and wondered I was ever going to decide...<br />
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Then it was on to Neiman Marcus - downtown flagship. Of course being the "fashion craved" female that I am... this was the perfect place for me. I knew that my heart was on a couple of dresses at Warren Barron, but I was keeping an open mind, always. As I picked out which dresses I wanted to try on... I noticed a very familiar (there are the goose bumps again) gown. I told my bridal consultant, <a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/catalog/templates/F0.jhtml?itemId=cat9640737">Christina</a>, about my experience at Warren Barron and she said then we must try it on again. There were two at Neiman's that I fell in love with. One of which was the dress everyone got emotional about, but one difference... It had a different design aspect than the other and for the better! Right then I knew, this was my wedding gown. A wedding gown that had surprised all of us because it was everything I said I didn't want... But it turned out to be everything I had ever dreamed of: perfection. <br />
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I have chosen not to reveal my wedding dress in pictures and/or in writing for several reasons. One, most importantly, I want to TUG AT TYLER'S HEART STRINGS on our wedding day. Two, pictures or words do not give this dress justice (maybe Dale's pictures, maybe) but not an ordinary 'ol fool. Three, I want the moment of being "unveiled" (no pun intended) to the world - or at least our wedding guests.Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02338118296249367244noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95620042286962118.post-17794091145400072722010-01-21T21:22:00.000-06:002010-01-21T21:54:47.922-06:00Our VenueFor a really long time Tyler and I, as well as our families, have thought our wedding venue would be at Garvan Gardens in Hot Springs. When the time came to FINALLY go look at the "perfect" location we were ecstatic! We made an appointment with Garvan before we had even thought about anything else. We wanted to make sure we booked in enough time! We made a day out of it... Ate lunch with the parents, all went together to the gardens, and unfortunately, we were all disappointed together. Come to find out the "Great Lawn" where we had discussed having the wedding had been closed by the facility due to excessive "high heel" wear and tear! Such a disappointment. To keep our "Garvan" dream alive we visited the Anthony Chapel. Of course, we didn't like that either. As a little girl I never dreamed of my wedding being in a church or chapel; I had always dreamed of a colorful garden background with trees and flowers! So automatically I was turned off by the chapel and felt it would be settling with that venue. Back to the drawing board! <br /><br />Our planner, Jessica Kersey (http://finishingtoucheventdesign.net/), had suggested several places we go look... Well one being Marlsgate Plantation. I wasn't so sure about this place... The southern plantation houses were never "love at first sight" for me. But, to keep an open mind we decided to go take a look. I'm pretty sure as we were driving down the 'ol country road (just like back home) something felt right about it. As we got closer to the plantation we see a GORGEOUS lake with ducks and geese flying all around. It was just amazing! As we rounded the corner our mouths dropped! So we pull up and park and as we are about to enter the gate... Tyler and I look at each other and it was the most amazing feeling. I just can't describe. I had butterflies; Tyler was giddy. It was perfection. It was the feeling I knew we were "suppose" to have. Before we even stepped foot on the property, we knew... Jessica knew it was the place too. After talking to the owner and touring the property, we had fallen in love again and knew that this was THE PLACE for our wedding. Nothing will ever replace that moment. I am so glad we had that experience and the best part is... that is was together! Ahhh...<br /><br />This will be the third time I have described our experience and all three times it feels like when we first saw Our Venue. I think that tells us something...Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02338118296249367244noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95620042286962118.post-77136418144333133192010-01-14T22:23:00.000-06:002010-01-14T23:12:18.340-06:00The Engagement<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY9-PhPc5oxrfDLRlkOHsvkFeBkLB7GdzyshQ_HgDAKoMrclMvBO3aJY3d17Gl_5HqfwDNn47T6_fB3RhmjgEkRnv3h7H3PfwdeLOrf069FDrcMBDpN5LNVPqd5p8ZLhQBYN4z_M74Ae8C/s1600-h/IMG_3228.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY9-PhPc5oxrfDLRlkOHsvkFeBkLB7GdzyshQ_HgDAKoMrclMvBO3aJY3d17Gl_5HqfwDNn47T6_fB3RhmjgEkRnv3h7H3PfwdeLOrf069FDrcMBDpN5LNVPqd5p8ZLhQBYN4z_M74Ae8C/s320/IMG_3228.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426829446551228866" /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div>Our engagement was long awaited! Four years and nine months in the making...</div><div><br /></div><div>On December 23, 2009 it finally happened! Tyler had planned for us to eat at an amazing restaurant, Mike's Place, in Conway. We had planned on having a double date with Matt and Jessie that night with pictures by the Christmas lights and dinner. Ty had said we were celebrating my new job to throw me off! Also with Matt and Jessie going I didn't expect what was going to happen!</div><div><br /></div><div>All day long I had a nervous, anxious feeling in the pit of my stomach. I knew something was different... Tyler wouldn't answer my phone calls all day long. He is horrible at keeping secrets... well... secret because "he forgets" they are secrets... right... So in order to keep it a total secret he decided not to </div><div>answer the phone.</div><div><br /></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic_tonnG5vg57WQoraKvcZDSqSyUdRhUCAhgwvWSFUQd3msWD7HH-KnSR8vqMfaaEUyjrfWpFbLaPYL1uaeMjfKAebgJHkeTlnA8OTwy_4PPEN7ikDH6LNQVAEtv1InXUbQs6-MqqWP4ln/s320/IMG_3423.JPG" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426829458231330802" /></div><div>When I got home from work that day (which was my last</div><div>day) I told him about my nervous/anxious feeling I had been having and of course he just shrugged his shoulders with no reply. We made our way to the restaurant and before going in we had to take pictures with the lights... in the rain... First we took Matt and Jessie's picture; then it was our turn. On about the third flash Tyler got down on one knee and opened a lighted box with a GORGEOUS ring in it! He said some things I don't remember, but my first reaction was to hug and kiss him! After it sank in a bit, he reminded me that I hadn't answered his question, "Will you marry me?". I said, OF COURSE I WILL! We then proceeded to dinner, had a bottle of champagne - which we kept after we drank it all! Each year we will burn a different colored candle to make it a work of art!</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm so thankful for Matt and Jessie! Because of them, we have pictures of our moment. Thank you guys!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Marissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02338118296249367244noreply@blogger.com3