Fashion Friday: 9 wedding rings for men

<div align="center"> </div><a href="http://rookery9.aviary.com.s3.amazonaws.com/13882000/13882176_e7de_625x625.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://rookery9.aviary.com.s3.amazonaws.com/13882000/13882176_e7de_625x625.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 659px;" /></a>We've <em>ooohed</em> and <em>ahhhed</em> over <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2010/11/engagement-rings.html">engagement</a> <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/07/engagement-rings.html">rings</a> <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/10/engagement-ring.html">for</a> <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/11/fashion-friday-two-pretty-engagement.html">women</a>, but remember my <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2008/12/hot-men-trend-wedding-rings.html">wise words</a> so long ago, friends?<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">There is nothing sexier than a man wearing a wedding ring</span>. So, with that in mind, I thought it would be fun to round up some of my favorite wedding ring finds for the gents! Some of them are quite unique...<br /><br />*<a href="https://catbirdnyc.com/shop/product.php?productid=17471&cat=369&page=1">Twisted band</a>, $600.<br />*<a href="https://catbirdnyc.com/shop/product.php?productid=18108&cat=369&page=1">Concave wedding band</a>, $530.<br />*<a href="http://www.verameat.com/collections/under-100-ring/products/foxy">Foxy ring</a> (<span style="font-style:italic;">because he's such a fox...</span>), $220.<br />*<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83456449/hammered-silver-gold-mens-wedding-ring">Hammered gold ripple ring</a>, $115.<br />*<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/84930614/hammered-gold-mens-wedding-ring-14k?ref=sr_gallery_41&ga_search_query=mens+wedding+rings&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_min=0&ga_max=0&ga_search_type=handmade">Hammered gold ring</a>, $625.<br />*<a href="https://catbirdnyc.com/shop/product.php?productid=17778&cat=369&page=1">Belt ring</a>, $860.<br />*<a href="https://catbirdnyc.com/shop/product.php?productid=16562">Rope band</a>, $150.<br />*<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75820012/the-6mm-original-custom-fingerprint">Fingerprint wedding band</a>, $225.<br />*<a href="http://satomikawakita.com/521-13572/MR0104_men`s_wedding_band">Gold wedding band</a>, $200.<br /><br /><strong>What do you think, friends? If you're married, what does your husband's ring look like? Did you pick it out? Did you personalize it by having it inscribed? Or did you opt for a classic wedding band? xoxo</strong>

Fashion Friday: 9 wedding rings for men

We've ooohed and ahhhed over engagement rings for women , but remember my wise words so long ago, friends? There is nothing sexie...

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Five-Year Engagement

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj22S3L1gt2WpICDEje1R-lzm63aoDrYIGePvI00RbXJVTf2PBcsp03Pm9VGmFmg4fGfTdl2P_mfOArhHhfrr98dELUWy0oh2DX0PKDJuOziw2ihn2ivnH9XxQaGq94xZd7MC3smhmr_4/s1600/img8.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5735703160008369522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj22S3L1gt2WpICDEje1R-lzm63aoDrYIGePvI00RbXJVTf2PBcsp03Pm9VGmFmg4fGfTdl2P_mfOArhHhfrr98dELUWy0oh2DX0PKDJuOziw2ihn2ivnH9XxQaGq94xZd7MC3smhmr_4/s400/img8.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 185px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHaWh1smTMtMr6SoPxyyK0Q5aL-WqHVw4BdlzM0ggNIfAqbaYiaAuXF60x7itEETghFkuavPR-0qFsq-SL4Iq9VUC1-cNQykdAqPtTnA6WGqzbsp3qjhgdOXQd8oAvSTxr-eigx7W-NqU/s1600/img1.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5735703150241590994" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHaWh1smTMtMr6SoPxyyK0Q5aL-WqHVw4BdlzM0ggNIfAqbaYiaAuXF60x7itEETghFkuavPR-0qFsq-SL4Iq9VUC1-cNQykdAqPtTnA6WGqzbsp3qjhgdOXQd8oAvSTxr-eigx7W-NqU/s400/img1.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 185px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK8jN9zCaym5BwA_Fx7GL0PMi-VkpKOWL6599BwyRCpe8XGisXqszRLgcP0d0m2CICOKHpDaIbMrjUGMhAiwd4Zx6JWDu9rNaaHfrSTv50rCQWSqrMxSgp_4bX1ShfWpb3p6vAmu7CLnE/s1600/img10.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5735703148711664850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK8jN9zCaym5BwA_Fx7GL0PMi-VkpKOWL6599BwyRCpe8XGisXqszRLgcP0d0m2CICOKHpDaIbMrjUGMhAiwd4Zx6JWDu9rNaaHfrSTv50rCQWSqrMxSgp_4bX1ShfWpb3p6vAmu7CLnE/s400/img10.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 185px;" /></a>Have you guys seen the trailer for <a href="http://www.thefiveyearengagementmovie.com/">Five-Year Engagement</a>? The romantic comedy starring everyone's favorite funny man (<em>and <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2009/03/man-candy-monday_23.html">Man</a> <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2009/04/i-love-you-jason-segel.html">Candy</a> vet</em>) Jason Segel and Emily Blunt follows the couple's adventures and misadventures on their long walk down the aisle.<br /><div align="center"><iframe width="400" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/xiDittXjJ9E" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>And in a clever nod to modern engagements, there's even <a href="http://tomandviolet.com/blog/">a blog</a> written by the fictional couple, Tom and Violet, which includes their story, videos and a guest book. Genius! Plus, the film is produced by the same people who did <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1478338/">Bridesmaids</a>, so you know it will be laugh-out-loud funny! Will you be seeing it, friends? xoxo<br /><br />P.S. I'll be writing more about long engagements next week, but until then, a <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2012/04/central-park-engagement.html">Central Park engagement</a> and <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/10/zombie-engagement.html">Zombie engagement</a>. :)

Five-Year Engagement

Have you guys seen the trailer for Five-Year Engagement ? The romantic comedy starring everyone's favorite funny man ( and Man Candy v...

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Love Lounge: How old were you when you got married? Did you feel any pressure to tie the knot?

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8p2SFy2R1lanT0m-5SSPTCRCTgkykIgjIl5AtmQ7QHkm8rEfVD9BxQ6Gs9V-mDSYnvEufqR5LeSbne24OBm6gFv1PmwTtK9xGxCrPhVvcdqMI54zKvqj5xEAcwAW1cAl9Y73LvhGP1tI/s1600/marry2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5735026557417471186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8p2SFy2R1lanT0m-5SSPTCRCTgkykIgjIl5AtmQ7QHkm8rEfVD9BxQ6Gs9V-mDSYnvEufqR5LeSbne24OBm6gFv1PmwTtK9xGxCrPhVvcdqMI54zKvqj5xEAcwAW1cAl9Y73LvhGP1tI/s400/marry2.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 284px;" /></a>It's sort of an odd coincidence: Most everyone in my mom's family (<em>her mom, her sisters...</em>) got married when they were 22. And although I <em>haven't</em> given much thought to is the age I'd like to be when I tie that knot, I did find myself going though a bit of self-doubt when I turned 22.<br /><br />Then, when my best friend got married a few years ago, I found myself bringing out the old metaphorical yardstick yet again. It's not that I actually wanted to get married <em>right then</em>; I just wondered if I <em>should be</em>. With so many of my peers marrying in their mid- and late-20s, the whole subject of marriage was hard to ignore. <br /><br />"The peer pressure to marry doesn’t necessarily suggest a problem with marriage itself, but a lack of other cultural models," says <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/04/23/reasons-to-get-married_n_1447389.html?ref=weddings&ncid=edlinkusaolp00000008">psychologist Lyla Cicero</a>. "This results in a lot of people choosing marital and family structures by default rather than by intention -- a kind of compulsory monogamy."<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFzK8i5v6Sq3ggmvgbNo_dOgSjv5670w-dqjsWZQXryzaGZ1zXOm23JVzjgPN-O6BmQAy3Aw_V_uI8a1iUx54YK-z9kg83gXIh1E55CnwNAgRGmMiUhzrFrJ9Vd7BFsqkDWXEOcD_aSk/s1600/marry.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5735026566722403106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFzK8i5v6Sq3ggmvgbNo_dOgSjv5670w-dqjsWZQXryzaGZ1zXOm23JVzjgPN-O6BmQAy3Aw_V_uI8a1iUx54YK-z9kg83gXIh1E55CnwNAgRGmMiUhzrFrJ9Vd7BFsqkDWXEOcD_aSk/s400/marry.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 227px;" /></a>And, as it turns out, the mid-20s is the perfect time to get married, at least according to <a href="http://www.cosmopolitan.com/celebrity/exclusive/marriage-age?hootPostID=ee8d539df8da463f0806b035a2b7c824">new research</a>. Having higher education, financial security and a firm sense of your goals and values in your mid-20s make for a perfect marriage recipe -- and lower the chances of going down the divorce path. <br /><br />But honestly? I don't want to get married until <em>I'm</em> ready, not when my peers or society think I should be ready. I think a lot of women -- and men -- feel this way too. Marriage, at the core, is such an individual thing. It can't be placed on some sort of arbitrary time table, full of neat little boxes of steps to check off. It's something you have to feel in your heart instead of calculate in your head. <br /><br /><strong>So, I'm curious, friends: Are you married? How old were you when you got married? Did you feel any of that peer pressure? Would you do things differently now if you had the chance? If you're not married, do you envision yourself being married by a certain age? xoxo</strong><br /><br />[Photos by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/superbomba/">superbomba</a> and <a href="http://www.rachelthurston.com/">Rachel Thurston</a>]

Love Lounge: How old were you when you got married? Did you feel any pressure to tie the knot?

It's sort of an odd coincidence: Most everyone in my mom's family ( her mom, her sisters... ) got married when they were 22. And alt...

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Central Park engagement

<div align="center"> </div><a href="http://rookery9.aviary.com.s3.amazonaws.com/13504000/13504001_74ca_625x625.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://rookery9.aviary.com.s3.amazonaws.com/13504000/13504001_74ca_625x625.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 542px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrXzGk3CZxgHaEMMxu_KK608yvP21KVDFIGWYoDo4R8Vl8-2B-fiN5cxH7zT6gLFeeQySaOBrPnHEtQdGSLZOzrlx-v7_FhmtkfXE5xSUWtzBhyvXfosiFskkgYmWIkGXsX9JhAL0DApk/s1600/03.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729538416746148466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrXzGk3CZxgHaEMMxu_KK608yvP21KVDFIGWYoDo4R8Vl8-2B-fiN5cxH7zT6gLFeeQySaOBrPnHEtQdGSLZOzrlx-v7_FhmtkfXE5xSUWtzBhyvXfosiFskkgYmWIkGXsX9JhAL0DApk/s400/03.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlXE1utOFDV8cEJ-XPyMwiEnl-wp1zhdHlp88OXMTE5Q2jeQq1n3BInByy7T2I3kYZAsi1UnVNxjamfQmBNGv_dhmf88bMUvn8NBateEvXvZmAsAkmUtc2Mysk_SlX-4QwZjwepDvA8p8/s1600/06.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729538413531662386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlXE1utOFDV8cEJ-XPyMwiEnl-wp1zhdHlp88OXMTE5Q2jeQq1n3BInByy7T2I3kYZAsi1UnVNxjamfQmBNGv_dhmf88bMUvn8NBateEvXvZmAsAkmUtc2Mysk_SlX-4QwZjwepDvA8p8/s400/06.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 265px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDUS4nju6hGPWiensbFKX6HHG7zWh2-UQZudfOKPjohEs90iQjVQ0paJppFyLXJ2CPdfQ_cmY4MZGoDX_nEmB0A5i5qATQ86z1PK8AY_ZKiODzgwOW_sGTREbm_Y-fhzdBJ1dZ_BPNYRg/s1600/07.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729538662469001330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDUS4nju6hGPWiensbFKX6HHG7zWh2-UQZudfOKPjohEs90iQjVQ0paJppFyLXJ2CPdfQ_cmY4MZGoDX_nEmB0A5i5qATQ86z1PK8AY_ZKiODzgwOW_sGTREbm_Y-fhzdBJ1dZ_BPNYRg/s400/07.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 297px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-1cch8usYdsOjwO4udHWl83m47a49TqQ9IoePDjy-a7oHaTCzmNjk8QI6Sfzx0-TiJxmRc6kacy9lYV9cznzIOCwLhy_R91-s-tuQVWEVpLs3ini10oS_sgkAwM_bSPtlgva2exYu6zg/s1600/02.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729538429313571538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-1cch8usYdsOjwO4udHWl83m47a49TqQ9IoePDjy-a7oHaTCzmNjk8QI6Sfzx0-TiJxmRc6kacy9lYV9cznzIOCwLhy_R91-s-tuQVWEVpLs3ini10oS_sgkAwM_bSPtlgva2exYu6zg/s400/02.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 270px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib4vUbZHcHHEHe9-7BA2CroDQIkxib01uLPTc2ItZcVm1w17S4JBe8RVknQ0z6MO3RQZZXcbHKsrsuBka1cwcIV7JB1IEJk-q2Qif-a8_9l-QRNk8MYKqPoQEBBp3-rFMyrIMEdjYHMVU/s1600/04.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729538418779810162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib4vUbZHcHHEHe9-7BA2CroDQIkxib01uLPTc2ItZcVm1w17S4JBe8RVknQ0z6MO3RQZZXcbHKsrsuBka1cwcIV7JB1IEJk-q2Qif-a8_9l-QRNk8MYKqPoQEBBp3-rFMyrIMEdjYHMVU/s400/04.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 270px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://rookery9.aviary.com.s3.amazonaws.com/13504000/13504150_9447_625x625.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://rookery9.aviary.com.s3.amazonaws.com/13504000/13504150_9447_625x625.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 601px;" /></a>Let's kick off this wonderful Tuesday with <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/engagement">a</a> <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/marriage">little</a> <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/Weddings">love</a>, shall we, friends? Dave popped the question to Erica in a rowboat on the lake in Central Park. Aren't these photos from their special day breathtaking? It's simple, romantic and you can feel the couple's love leap off the photos -- plus, I can't stop staring at the rich color of that lake. Perfect! And I love how New York City becomes such a perfect backdrop, don't you?<br /><br />P.S. Yikes -- <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/10/zombie-engagement.html">a zombie engagement</a>! :)<br /><br />[Photos by <a href="http://www.trentbailey.com/gallery/erica-dave/">Trent Bailey</a>, via <a href="http://www.snippetandink.com/photo-features/love-shoots/central-park-row-boat-engagement-photos/">Snippet & Ink</a>]

Central Park engagement

Let's kick off this wonderful Tuesday with a little love , shall we, friends? Dave popped the question to Erica in a rowboat on the ...

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Etsy Love: Vintage wedding save-the-dates

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm7zOXZAn4GQyIS7lnjGJey-JZ_wehU7X7Pd-wKaJPiWmu3QRDuHjcK_oS9q_1Ls78j78h_fPmEJNqeIza6BtuuoMfbjlhlONVEd25cGxvUytHUNuuy7lB-XcU38GxOA7vkXzNBQjCXt0/s1600/aa.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717538705442753922" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm7zOXZAn4GQyIS7lnjGJey-JZ_wehU7X7Pd-wKaJPiWmu3QRDuHjcK_oS9q_1Ls78j78h_fPmEJNqeIza6BtuuoMfbjlhlONVEd25cGxvUytHUNuuy7lB-XcU38GxOA7vkXzNBQjCXt0/s400/aa.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZdGjVaP9QBAIEeQjvJX7VdKxe7Quug9lqlLsEbu4d_XrD6sIhw9OCaz-gEYdd4Lfrlz45M8edmjx6s-gEe0HCHXkhXCGdUuwbBRRRSTf1NqIJNsoCPV49ADZX6ll_wa2zGtNy7GLiQD8/s1600/aa2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717538699206099586" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZdGjVaP9QBAIEeQjvJX7VdKxe7Quug9lqlLsEbu4d_XrD6sIhw9OCaz-gEYdd4Lfrlz45M8edmjx6s-gEe0HCHXkhXCGdUuwbBRRRSTf1NqIJNsoCPV49ADZX6ll_wa2zGtNy7GLiQD8/s400/aa2.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 270px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimB8jRIbdUWu6TDgcNHEMia_ECoOXPRrEdCJHUpeVd_xqzhg2HBzDvEu8wnwudRij2Bp0jy0VVgOaRXo4Gn-fM0Wf7-pReyXRVeZ8lDnTDk3OrjVk0Zhc5pUY9lnM9RhOtagGHRfX-Nv8/s1600/aa3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717538692980439362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimB8jRIbdUWu6TDgcNHEMia_ECoOXPRrEdCJHUpeVd_xqzhg2HBzDvEu8wnwudRij2Bp0jy0VVgOaRXo4Gn-fM0Wf7-pReyXRVeZ8lDnTDk3OrjVk0Zhc5pUY9lnM9RhOtagGHRfX-Nv8/s400/aa3.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 270px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinb4-u8hjV8zSCX4Jcylkw6YHSCypg3jfLZQmz5AQtTz5_EDrstn_TOmxYi_lXtacaBHld0kW2GAP5Fr-tNASCfDs_vw97RRXjJvw1BmWBkNd36LSaq3IXmVk7pvUyMtbzU18jLjtf3t0/s1600/aa4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717538690473385666" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinb4-u8hjV8zSCX4Jcylkw6YHSCypg3jfLZQmz5AQtTz5_EDrstn_TOmxYi_lXtacaBHld0kW2GAP5Fr-tNASCfDs_vw97RRXjJvw1BmWBkNd36LSaq3IXmVk7pvUyMtbzU18jLjtf3t0/s400/aa4.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 283px;" /></a>How cute are these wedding save-the-dates from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/GoGoSnap?section_id=6933776">GoGoSnap</a>? I'd never thought of sending out vintage-inspired cards, but these are the perfect combination of elegant and classy. <br /><br /><strong>What were your save-the-dates like, friends? Were they more old-fashioned or more modern? xoxo</strong>

Etsy Love: Vintage wedding save-the-dates

How cute are these wedding save-the-dates from GoGoSnap ? I'd never thought of sending out vintage-inspired cards, but these are the per...

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Sponsor Spotlight: Saressa Designs

<em>Last week, friends, I had the chance to interview Rachel, whose love of color, fashion and art inspired her shop, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/saressa">Saressa Designs</a>. Rachel loves designing for weddings, and she firmly believes that jewelry is a fun way to express yourself. She even began making jewelry as a child, fashioning baubles from old pieces and fishing lines her parents gave her. Read on for more of her creative insights... xoxo</em><br /><br /><strong>Keep in touch...</strong><br />Official Web site: <a href="http://www.saressadesigns.com">Saressa Designs</a><br />Become a fan on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/SaressaDesigns">Facebook</a><br />Follow on <a href="http://www.twitter.com/saressadesigns">Twitter</a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxJoR1qAPxrj5QYH40ObvnAtPZ9gatLmlPcjiWd4uhP2BVPlQd1E9KnNFn_ElFdQZvqWoe3M-Rt3X8HOAeeKUMkSaMzsu35WFI7FzOba_rp1glGgT8MpPkfdy3FWzIUco1FfmQWL7bXs/s1600/aa.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716100712191570882" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxJoR1qAPxrj5QYH40ObvnAtPZ9gatLmlPcjiWd4uhP2BVPlQd1E9KnNFn_ElFdQZvqWoe3M-Rt3X8HOAeeKUMkSaMzsu35WFI7FzOba_rp1glGgT8MpPkfdy3FWzIUco1FfmQWL7bXs/s400/aa.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 53px;" /></a><strong>So tell me a bit about you and your shop.</strong><br />I design wire-wrapped gemstone jewelry using sterling silver, 14K gold filled, 14K rose gold filled and brass. Though I mainly focus on precious/semiprecious gemstones, I also incorporate some Swarovski Crystal and glass from time to time as well as a few unique or vintage pieces. Most of my designs are simple, clean and versatile -- making them great for everyday wear. I love what I do, and I adore each and every customer that passes through my shop.<br /><br /><strong>What inspired you to start the shop?</strong><br />I have been a DIY-er my entire life, and that included making my own jewelry or modifying jewelry that I received growing up. What inspired me to start my own shop first was the encouragement of others. Honest support from others is a powerful tool...especially for those of us who are shy about putting our work out there. My kids really are what brought me out of the woodwork, though. Becoming a mother has made me much more brave. <br /><br /><strong>What's your best piece of advice for people looking for great online shopping deals?</strong><br />This is a hard question as for me... the specific product I’m looking for changes up my shopping style. For products from larger companies that are able to mass produce, I have to confess I hit ebay a lot. I’m a mom who doesn’t really have disposable income, but one thing I can’t skimp on is skincare. <a href="http://buy.dermalogica.com/Default.aspx?gclid=CL-HiYPpza4CFcNrKgodpk3VAw">Dermalogica</a> is one of the only lines that really works for my skin, and I have found the best prices on ebay (<em>shipping included</em>). I do spend time comparing, though, and do a good 30 minutes of searching before I buy. Finding great prices takes time (<em>for me anyway</em>).<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhibz24wLdbRSqwWOvja7kQANHxUzo_ljp5B_HTgFkqR-JKtTH1JsctYfI5r2mv2VjZXh8RyrIWEa1FG4CJRAEsNKtkOShIJJy8l8_-WLHRyAHrzHi5y13-EmH-0CqwR8NqaobwVdq4ZUk/s1600/aa2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716100709240295346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhibz24wLdbRSqwWOvja7kQANHxUzo_ljp5B_HTgFkqR-JKtTH1JsctYfI5r2mv2VjZXh8RyrIWEa1FG4CJRAEsNKtkOShIJJy8l8_-WLHRyAHrzHi5y13-EmH-0CqwR8NqaobwVdq4ZUk/s400/aa2.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 325px;" /></a><strong>In this recession economy, what are some ways people can still look chic for less?</strong><br />One of my favorite ways to get a chic look for less is to visit Forever21. You can find great pieces there, no matter your age, for a good price. You just have to be willing to spend some time there and try on lots of stuff. As for jewelry, if you like the look of real gemstones and handmade, look for brass pieces. Brass is less expensive than sterling silver or gold filled, so you can find some really great pieces for less and still enjoy the quality of handmade. Lastly, I think taking good care of yourself is where style starts. Keep a good skin- and hair-care regimen. There are lots of great ideas online to keep both looking great for a low cost. For example, I am a HUGE fan of lemon juice and baking soda for an exfoliator. It works great, and I have very picky skin.<br /><br /><strong>What is your favorite item in your shop and why?</strong><br />This is such a hard question too. My favorite tends to shift a lot, but right now I would choose any item made with rose gold, like the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/89693545/garnet-necklace-in-rose-gold-filled">garnet necklace</a>, above. It’s my sister’s fault! :)

Sponsor Spotlight: Saressa Designs

Last week, friends, I had the chance to interview Rachel, whose love of color, fashion and art inspired her shop, Saressa Designs . Rachel l...

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My 100-Word Love Story: On remembering a quarter century of love, marriage and children

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-6Nv-I9KGKSGradzn4uVGCGwlIIqu6YESm-1suFcZMPRiwiLdSTA77edoUNHBJX_icd_5IMR6fomZjbThlRL3hnUWil6VSQminw31x5fwcRGL9Q4NhLk3kPTJZFXQrmT8ivedcgri830/s1600/aa.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713621242907940178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-6Nv-I9KGKSGradzn4uVGCGwlIIqu6YESm-1suFcZMPRiwiLdSTA77edoUNHBJX_icd_5IMR6fomZjbThlRL3hnUWil6VSQminw31x5fwcRGL9Q4NhLk3kPTJZFXQrmT8ivedcgri830/s400/aa.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 316px;" /></a>When Melissa asked me to write a few words for her <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/100-word%20love%20stories">Valentine's love column</a>, I gladly agreed. Then I spent the next week hemming and hawing about what to write. I couldn’t think of anything that would be “<em>Valentine worthy</em>.” But, then I got to thinking: Isn’t a marriage that lasted almost 25 years and produced two beautiful children enough to call it a love story? And, isn’t a marriage where my husband rubbed my back every single night for those 25 years enough for a love story? What about the memories I carry close to my heart, even today, almost 9 years after his death? All the days spent in the hospital with Melissa during her 26 surgeries ought to qualify us for some sort of place in the annals of devotion! Being able to be with Brian every single day for 4 months during his cancer treatment was indeed a gift for our marriage. Even the ordinary days were special when we were together. There was always laughter in our home and hearts. Even today, long after I ceased being a wife, I can feel him with me every day. I guess ours is a Valentine-worthy love story after all! Happy Valentine’s Day, Brian.<br /><br /><strong>--By Sharon, mother of the blogger</strong>

My 100-Word Love Story: On remembering a quarter century of love, marriage and children

When Melissa asked me to write a few words for her Valentine's love column , I gladly agreed. Then I spent the next week hemming and haw...

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Sponsor Spotlight: Wedding Favors

<em>Friends, a little fact about me: When springtime rolls around, I tend to get a little case of wedding fever. So, I was so happy when I got the chance to interview the lovely folks behind <a href="http://www.weddingfavors.org/">Wedding Favors</a> recently. With everything from <a href="http://www.weddingfavors.org/personalized-wedding-favors">personalized wedding favors</a> to <a href="http://www.weddingfavors.org/bridal-shower-favors">bridal shower favors</a>, I want to reach through the screen and plan a wedding. Read on for the inside scoop...<br /><br />P.S. Look for a little surprise gift for So About What I Said... readers at the end of the interview! :)</em><br /><br /><strong>Keep in touch...</strong><br />Official Web site: <a href="http://www.weddingfavors.org/">Wedding Favors</a><br />Become a fan on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/WeddingFavorsorg/124767197572811">Facebook</a><br />Follow on <a href="http://twitter.com/wed_Favors">Twitter</a><br />Read about the latest wedding trends and news on their <a href="http://www.weddingfavors.org/blog/">blog</a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-tDM8tygXWnD42fEy84SUXSGpzbBRH-UJs0Y-lmvAy4ssI0K8CZ9hT-FCt6o6H0CPWqSYa-lynyiiFpyijLerUnvqg4IYFvwSh1cw41IdY8zcgDBWlkEK4fq4FrvhV6EJgHRK_Dcu-ac/s1600/wedding.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713582134491266386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-tDM8tygXWnD42fEy84SUXSGpzbBRH-UJs0Y-lmvAy4ssI0K8CZ9hT-FCt6o6H0CPWqSYa-lynyiiFpyijLerUnvqg4IYFvwSh1cw41IdY8zcgDBWlkEK4fq4FrvhV6EJgHRK_Dcu-ac/s400/wedding.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 130px;" /></a><strong>So tell me a bit about <a href="http://www.weddingfavors.org/">Wedding Favors</a>.</strong><br />We have been in the wedding industry since 2004. We strive to provide brides with quality favors and also keep up with trends. Brides can use a unique tool we developed called the Favor Finder. This helps brides narrow thousands of favors down to just the ones that fit their price, color, season and event.<br /><br /><strong>What inspired you to start it?</strong><br />We felt there was a need in the wedding industry to provide quality favors with great service. We knew we could offer both and still keep competitive prices. <br /><br /><strong>What's your best piece of advice for people looking for great online shopping deals?</strong><br />Make sure you can trust the Web sites you are buying from. Do they back their product up? <a href="http://www.weddingfavors.org/">Wedding Favors</a> has an industry-best return policy. We offer full refund plus pay for return shipping back to our warehouse.<br /><br /><strong>In this recession economy, what are some ways people can still look chic for less?</strong><br />Find what you like and watch for deals or sales.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZn89z8zcIjTnGfjQdwdhanJgzrg_2xTio0I-TJwoYTUA-KlMjr1JWp3rfAbH0duEclYJjnqTnp58fxu9usk2OD7asuYD486n_liAJBStnmdACchfnQJBg49xVnvsyuQa2htOo2vPqdt4/s1600/aa.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713583582362184434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZn89z8zcIjTnGfjQdwdhanJgzrg_2xTio0I-TJwoYTUA-KlMjr1JWp3rfAbH0duEclYJjnqTnp58fxu9usk2OD7asuYD486n_liAJBStnmdACchfnQJBg49xVnvsyuQa2htOo2vPqdt4/s400/aa.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 320px;" /></a><strong>What is your favorite item in your shop and why?</strong><br />I would say the <a href="http://www.weddingfavors.org/favors/chalkboard-frosted-glass-tealight-holder-set-of-4">chalkboard frosted-glass tealight holder</a>. It is a fairly new favor and is unique to anything else we offer.<br /><br /><em><strong>**Special Offer: <a href="http://www.weddingfavors.org/">Wedding Favors</a> is offering readers a 15% discount on orders over $69. Use coupon code SHOWER15 at checkout!</strong></em>

Sponsor Spotlight: Wedding Favors

Friends, a little fact about me: When springtime rolls around, I tend to get a little case of wedding fever. So, I was so happy when I got t...

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Sponsor Spotlight: Luxe Boulevard

<span style="font-style:italic;">Today, friends, I'm excited to share my interview with Stephanie, the awesome lady behind <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/LuxeBoulevard">Luxe Boulevard</a>. She's a mastermind when it comes to bridal accessories. She loves helping brides make their special day a one-of-a-kind affair, so read on for her tips and tricks. Enjoy...</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Keep in touch...</span><br />Official Web site: <a href="http://www.luxeboulevard.com/">Luxe Boulevard</a><br />Become a fan on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LuxeBoulevard">Facebook</a><br />Follow on <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/luxeboulevard">Twitter</a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9rc59VApHj3PFTaX3H_dhD16GrtDhPdFv_cxUy65_km0jaXkGtT8sV2Q3dMxLxCl4L-lVavDeucXcEoXYAjDH0KdUsnIYnNksxNuhm4KV_QZPDhcLLWmsB1z-RLvRHnZqIrRMrOsfph8/s1600/02.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711265606776521154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9rc59VApHj3PFTaX3H_dhD16GrtDhPdFv_cxUy65_km0jaXkGtT8sV2Q3dMxLxCl4L-lVavDeucXcEoXYAjDH0KdUsnIYnNksxNuhm4KV_QZPDhcLLWmsB1z-RLvRHnZqIrRMrOsfph8/s400/02.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 53px;" /></a><span style="font-weight:bold;">So tell me a bit about <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/LuxeBoulevard">Luxe Boulevard</a>...</span><br />I specialize in custom bridal accessories. I create whimsical fabric flower bouquets, boutonnieres, bridal belts, statement necklace and much more.<br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">What inspired you to start it?</span><br />I had many friends and family members encouraging me to start selling the things I made. One of my dearest friends was my biggest motivator. I talked with my hubby, and he was all for it. Then in September, I had a luxury photographer email me and ask if I could create some boutonnieres based on some inspiration images she had for a stylized shoot. One thing led to another, and she was asking me to make more than just the boutonnieres and offering to sell my bridal goods in her studio. That launched Luxe Boulevard Bridal in full swing.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">What's your best piece of advice for people looking for great online shopping deals?</span><br />Subscribe to you favorites! If you find a vendor you love and value their product, subscribe to them via email. Usually, when they have a sale, they will email their customers and you get first notice. I do this with my favorites, and often those that are members will get a little higher discount, such as 20% off to the public and 25% off to their members. They are all for thanking you for your loyalty and your support. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid4oixkx_Hp-JSVUp4LoHrPsZzEazrjL9bG1JADsbN7esH8JZq11pU8ll_UX2-V8ur6rnDYAeevxScJ1RXLD4RwJe3vlQ-v-wI9uW2lHQPZ4vpIRelD9E19qRBFDuR2hZJhRY1Eof10uU/s1600/01.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711265610030755298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid4oixkx_Hp-JSVUp4LoHrPsZzEazrjL9bG1JADsbN7esH8JZq11pU8ll_UX2-V8ur6rnDYAeevxScJ1RXLD4RwJe3vlQ-v-wI9uW2lHQPZ4vpIRelD9E19qRBFDuR2hZJhRY1Eof10uU/s400/01.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" /></a><span style="font-weight:bold;">In this recession economy, what are some ways people can still look chic for less?</span><br />DIY is my answer! So often I find an outdated something at the thrift store and update it to my liking. Learn to sew. Believe me, you can do it. It just takes practice, like anything else that is new to you. You can spend $40 on a dress at the department store, or $10 on materials and do it yourself. <a href="http://www.burdastyle.com/">Burdastyle</a> has tons of free patterns. Tutorials are everywhere online. I often post my own tutorials, sharing the things that I make, because I believe every woman should be able to look and feel her best without straining her bank account. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">What is your favorite item in your shop and why?</span><br />My <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/LuxeBoulevard?section_id=10670370">bouquets</a> are most definitely my favorite items. They are the hardest and most time consuming to make, but their end result always leaves me in awe more than any others. Also, there is nothing like seeing a bride smiling and running her fingers over her bouquet. Her delight for her big day so evident.

Sponsor Spotlight: Luxe Boulevard

Today, friends, I'm excited to share my interview with Stephanie, the awesome lady behind Luxe Boulevard . She's a mastermind when i...

Read more »

My 100-Word Love Story: On marrying my best friend

<div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7198/6886379433_b317dc55cf_z.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7198/6886379433_b317dc55cf_z.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 535px;" /></a>I realized that I loved him late one night. March 2008. Watching a movie. Sipping a red <em>way</em> past its prime. We had just attempted our <em>second</em> first date -- sushi. <br /><br />I sat there nervously, hoping he wouldn't notice the ferocious pounding in my chest. And after four years of friendship, I didn't just want him to kiss me, I wanted him to want me. And he did. <br /><br />This August, he asked me to share my life with him. I, of course, agreed! After knowing him eight years, I'm still surprised when I must remind my heart to be still. <br /><br /><strong>--By Ryan from <a href="http://www.thismustbetheplaceryan.blogspot.com/">This Must Be The Place</a></strong>

My 100-Word Love Story: On marrying my best friend

I realized that I loved him late one night. March 2008. Watching a movie. Sipping a red way past its prime. We had just attempted our seco...

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Wanted: 100-word love stories

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmuVSC82evvcEzNx-FpNl0dQcgLayl4qdusovnTajEgdoqAD4s4WgrFKtUs0-7taUiHX0nhrPJzWrWDF_SBuQ48ktO0gHamjw_xYDto7nGXfTXvTpJU9RtVlDJyWQxcz7smmLXkuL7_CE/s1600/01.png" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706066645050142274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmuVSC82evvcEzNx-FpNl0dQcgLayl4qdusovnTajEgdoqAD4s4WgrFKtUs0-7taUiHX0nhrPJzWrWDF_SBuQ48ktO0gHamjw_xYDto7nGXfTXvTpJU9RtVlDJyWQxcz7smmLXkuL7_CE/s400/01.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 223px;" /></a>As part of our <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/search/label/valentine%27s%20day">Valentine's Day celebration</a>, I want to feature <em>your</em> stories, friends. Your loves. Your heartbreaks. Your first crushes. Your most embarrassing moments. I want to hear it all...stories about your significant other, mother, father, best friend, former best friend. The fun twist? I want to hear these stories in 100 words! Doesn't that sound like fun, friends? I'd love to hear from you, so feel free to email me (mellow1422 [at] aol [dot] com), and look for stories this week and next week! Are you in the Valentine's spirit yet? xoxo<br /><br />[Graphic by <a href="http://www.someecards.com/valentines-day-cards/valentines-day-date-boyfriend-girlfriend-love-funny-ecard">Someecards</a>]

Wanted: 100-word love stories

As part of our Valentine's Day celebration , I want to feature your stories, friends. Your loves. Your heartbreaks. Your first crushes....

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Floral wedding dress

<div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6807276687_a9aae7e6c9_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6807276687_a9aae7e6c9_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 600px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwHf8AzZSIGBMrW-omfZEjKqbqRB7TGg4kD7kTdNh4R3wLDk_-36uhODMrhQY_ymOJG_dWK1MOhKuLgekwp9FsrzNRJGoBpfTpKEZIXLiqxHm7KQEQdZQPbiipf2iTerkGsm78nq9mx50/s1600/03.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704572871824743762" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwHf8AzZSIGBMrW-omfZEjKqbqRB7TGg4kD7kTdNh4R3wLDk_-36uhODMrhQY_ymOJG_dWK1MOhKuLgekwp9FsrzNRJGoBpfTpKEZIXLiqxHm7KQEQdZQPbiipf2iTerkGsm78nq9mx50/s400/03.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7025/6807278563_1399523f62_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7025/6807278563_1399523f62_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 616px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9aAIVY4IHvZP8deALZU-Yua4FXhJttUOBaUU7H9CCWdmJ8SExbh0m8lP8lPHiQ00BltWBFvtrA-T49MDnUsscZB-9OwFG5W2KcPwdjIKJmqVZEqlKmyWvd1N5QtBjm6rF6P_cd8nzGDE/s1600/04.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704572872200907826" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9aAIVY4IHvZP8deALZU-Yua4FXhJttUOBaUU7H9CCWdmJ8SExbh0m8lP8lPHiQ00BltWBFvtrA-T49MDnUsscZB-9OwFG5W2KcPwdjIKJmqVZEqlKmyWvd1N5QtBjm6rF6P_cd8nzGDE/s400/04.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a>I've always leaned toward more <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2010/05/inspiration-spring-wedding-dresses.html">traditional</a> <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2010/12/elizabeth-dye-wedding-dresses.html">wedding</a> <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/03/wedding-dresses.html">dresses</a>, but how perfect would this floral dress be for a spring bride? Can't you imagine getting married in a garden full of blooming flowers?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">What's your dream wedding season, friends? xoxo</span><br /><br />P.S. Two more unconventional wedding dresses: The <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/11/fashion-friday-everyday-wedding-dress.html">everyday wedding dress</a> and the <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/01/salvation-army-wedding-dress.html">Salvation Army dress</a> (<span style="font-style:italic;">for a whopping $69!</span>).<br /><br />[Photo by <a href="http://becjohnsonphotography.blogspot.com/2012/01/mary-lewis.html#comment-form">Bec Johnson</a>, via <a href="http://shannoneileenblog.typepad.com/happiness-is/2012/01/a-floral-wedding-dress.html">Happiness Is...</a>]

Floral wedding dress

I've always leaned toward more traditional wedding dresses , but how perfect would this floral dress be for a spring bride? Can'...

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Fashion Friday: Disney wedding dresses

<div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7158/6731428721_cba9e779c0_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7158/6731428721_cba9e779c0_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 317px;" /></a>If my <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2012/01/talk-nerdy-to-me.html">inner geek</a> was smiling this morning, my inner child is dancing and twirling over Alfred Angelo's debut collection of wedding gowns. The dresses, inspired by Disney's classic princesses, make me want to bust out Disney movies and break into song. Here are a few I've been eyeing...<br /><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6731425891_08f355d626_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6731425891_08f355d626_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 535px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUc8yW5qTkbE4GCh3NwD5BYfIFruG7S_XDtp_0-KhxfkKRGCTmiR5o15YMXw23ucRQ1R0P-_6cO09MC9SJhM59t9lbJHBCpA0lqh6l-HXDEjUCYe_VRRfp08hyphenhyphenxPVPIpvXnvMnRLrjCe8/s1600/01.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699754758808604850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUc8yW5qTkbE4GCh3NwD5BYfIFruG7S_XDtp_0-KhxfkKRGCTmiR5o15YMXw23ucRQ1R0P-_6cO09MC9SJhM59t9lbJHBCpA0lqh6l-HXDEjUCYe_VRRfp08hyphenhyphenxPVPIpvXnvMnRLrjCe8/s400/01.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 276px;" /></a><a href="http://www.alfredangelo.com/collections/productdisplay.aspx?productID=51283c80-8222-4990-992c-7d4f403b7ee0&categoryID=1975d565-34d2-4d81-90c9-437deabe902d&pg=1&colorId1=">Jasmine</a>, for following her heart.<br /><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7144/6731426191_8709e4c9fc_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7144/6731426191_8709e4c9fc_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 531px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIoMynykQ7E6rxvYOBREya-nGwRlIfaoz4TyxLvZU_0B1Ox_Lk9d7p5SJ57feCCDB-76YsOmjCCu638iIt7D17h6Vz0Xx3agdUoE9E71LKtIxMXLaK1bApTw37i5kiNhWCwujvIRt4mqU/s1600/02.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699754760762225426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIoMynykQ7E6rxvYOBREya-nGwRlIfaoz4TyxLvZU_0B1Ox_Lk9d7p5SJ57feCCDB-76YsOmjCCu638iIt7D17h6Vz0Xx3agdUoE9E71LKtIxMXLaK1bApTw37i5kiNhWCwujvIRt4mqU/s400/02.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 285px;" /></a><a href="http://www.alfredangelo.com/collections/productdisplay.aspx?productID=672066ba-c1e3-4dd2-84af-138fa3e3bf99&categoryID=1975d565-34d2-4d81-90c9-437deabe902d&pg=1&colorId1=">Ariel</a>, for dreaming big and being fearless and fierce in going after what she wants.<br /><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7013/6731426539_475e20f95c_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7013/6731426539_475e20f95c_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 530px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ZRRwvcd2Usy4om64FSsa5VgRCU5Pauk1_ztGyXUm0H2KSZFAX-BOlGZbA8JO5EEaoGntbqOT1Ztpp1eZQ4R4aXAWWN0kdst6TvRQnc7IuLLSpOG4rZfXHCFE9AwIHjcc_z2bV-ssvLU/s1600/03.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699754760980732482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ZRRwvcd2Usy4om64FSsa5VgRCU5Pauk1_ztGyXUm0H2KSZFAX-BOlGZbA8JO5EEaoGntbqOT1Ztpp1eZQ4R4aXAWWN0kdst6TvRQnc7IuLLSpOG4rZfXHCFE9AwIHjcc_z2bV-ssvLU/s400/03.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 284px;" /></a><a href="http://www.alfredangelo.com/collections/productdisplay.aspx?productID=4ff26054-46fb-4639-b0df-ad83dc596199&categoryID=1975d565-34d2-4d81-90c9-437deabe902d&pg=1&colorId1=">Snow White</a>, for not letting anything get in her way -- not even an evil stepmother. <br /><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7002/6731426791_ac531efc42_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7002/6731426791_ac531efc42_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 529px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvXsnlhz1r2zHhm5srwzrkSnFMGBSk2wIMv49OKHyjwbUajjwOJJz8vDcVbmP_kahCbO75sNJht3KAnHjvmMtpXOBRWocz0b56qoMuqUCk7iCL0LAFZg5aFgB67b5G_VX5bdvpzmwu0tk/s1600/04.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699754755930529122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvXsnlhz1r2zHhm5srwzrkSnFMGBSk2wIMv49OKHyjwbUajjwOJJz8vDcVbmP_kahCbO75sNJht3KAnHjvmMtpXOBRWocz0b56qoMuqUCk7iCL0LAFZg5aFgB67b5G_VX5bdvpzmwu0tk/s400/04.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 276px;" /></a><a href="http://www.alfredangelo.com/collections/productdisplay.aspx?productID=7f10717f-3879-4f77-acd0-cb6a71d65ffe&categoryID=1975d565-34d2-4d81-90c9-437deabe902d&pg=1&colorId1=">Belle</a>, for looking beyond the surface and loving someone for who they are.<br /><br /><strong>What about you, friends? Which dress is your favorite? Who's your favorite Disney pricess? xoxo</strong>

Fashion Friday: Disney wedding dresses

If my inner geek was smiling this morning, my inner child is dancing and twirling over Alfred Angelo's debut collection of wedding gow...

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Wedding bouquets

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD5Ua1VboTXT505JHQ47QGXLOkWZqZ6KTGw2hmJ5f9lBXHQCmFQ8FQzcTrjp9Z60_tph2NvN_HMn_pvCQxnH6_8zX-FkwZ6ihHb97L1TVHmvmB_RZstjq3ZgKgJqp-1KLlhg4m6LUvvPs/s1600/aa.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699164549887422290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD5Ua1VboTXT505JHQ47QGXLOkWZqZ6KTGw2hmJ5f9lBXHQCmFQ8FQzcTrjp9Z60_tph2NvN_HMn_pvCQxnH6_8zX-FkwZ6ihHb97L1TVHmvmB_RZstjq3ZgKgJqp-1KLlhg4m6LUvvPs/s400/aa.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 298px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik0e3hEpqbtc3YoKLegOBvC3fcldlQq6CqEU8lEAs_1tjxLk1BStuoszXLejT8mAVRSWwt45QaVGuhydRMpe0_9xFGxnIEcE78ysHn2Rh1RfGve2NIhfnpJLt7RehU6HW0EJBaVg2eYIk/s1600/aa2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699164544723774066" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik0e3hEpqbtc3YoKLegOBvC3fcldlQq6CqEU8lEAs_1tjxLk1BStuoszXLejT8mAVRSWwt45QaVGuhydRMpe0_9xFGxnIEcE78ysHn2Rh1RfGve2NIhfnpJLt7RehU6HW0EJBaVg2eYIk/s400/aa2.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 296px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjunMK7LtuJe5fOqwzwdTfuce-J9M7HMEK4qdezxwAZpd3awmFbJFnLrM1qg7YoiIrifPcIz87PVITCvMOZVTtPh9ieZlL0G4dveZg1SrFpjuQSyux_m16P52ZCg3Av1C4zdvUbVZPkwsQ/s1600/aa3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699164540342215666" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjunMK7LtuJe5fOqwzwdTfuce-J9M7HMEK4qdezxwAZpd3awmFbJFnLrM1qg7YoiIrifPcIz87PVITCvMOZVTtPh9ieZlL0G4dveZg1SrFpjuQSyux_m16P52ZCg3Av1C4zdvUbVZPkwsQ/s400/aa3.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 284px;" /></a>Besides the frigidly cold temperatures and <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2011/02/snowstorm.html">blustering snowstorms</a>, one of my least favorite things about the winter months is the lack of color. Everything is bare -- the trees, the ground -- and I just want take a spray can full of eye-popping colors and go to town a la those classic paint-by-number books. Until then, these wedding bouquets put a little cheer in my winter step this morning; they're so beautiful and romantic. Wouldn't they be perfect for a winter wedding, friends? xoxo<br /><br />[Via <a href="http://www.bellethemagazine.com/2012/01/25-stunning-bouquets.html#.TwtAa0pAOIN">Belle The Magazine</a>]

Wedding bouquets

Besides the frigidly cold temperatures and blustering snowstorms , one of my least favorite things about the winter months is the lack of co...

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Would You Rather: Have a large wedding or a small, intimate one?

<div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6685551501_2cf4116d20_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6685551501_2cf4116d20_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 600px;" /></a>Friends, it's finally winter here in the Midwest (<em>the snow is whirling outside my window right now!</em>), so let's daydream about weddings today, shall we? I can count on one hand the number of weddings I've been to; I'm sure there are a couple I'm forgetting, but the number of weddings I can remember attending is under five. My oldest cousin got married when I was 16, and since she and her fiance (<em>my cousin-in-law?</em>) both have a large family, it was one of those big affairs, complete with a reception in a sprawling dining room.<br /><br />A few years later, I attended another cousin's wedding. This one, a quaint affair set against the backdrop of summer in upstate New York, was decidedly smaller, made up close friends and family. And when one of my oldest and dearest friends got married, she and her husband decided to forgo a traditional wedding altogether. Instead, they opted for a short ceremony at the courthouse with a few family members, and then invited friends and family to a backyard reception on a warm July day.<br /><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7031/6685518759_e67208c166_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7031/6685518759_e67208c166_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 602px;" /></a>And my parents' wedding? Well, from the stories I've heard and the photos I've seen, their wedding was even smaller still -- it was held at the church my mom attended growing up, and they invited less than 100 people to both the wedding and reception.<br /><br /><strong>So, friends, I'd love to know: Which one do you prefer? Did you have a huge wedding, inviting everyone from your mom to the school nurse from elementary school, or did you keep it small, only inviting very close friends and family? Do you like going to large weddings or more intimate ones? xoxo</strong><br /><br />P.S. Funny <a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/20979236">wedding comic</a>!<br /><br />[Photos via <a href="http://weheartit.com/">We Heart It</a>]

Would You Rather: Have a large wedding or a small, intimate one?

Friends, it's finally winter here in the Midwest ( the snow is whirling outside my window right now! ), so let's daydream about wed...

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Marital rating scale

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNcqKUKsRA826IFduh0gWjvaRYtQ4VPnb5WqcH5W-B9zAdFst8mW2bIkoN-daiQB-oa7AEf4XOySagilPLbndzSPyBENlwJv1q1qoTaQBs9Hj752xSmhjkCD3aMbbiBQ1SQ_6lDQO-F8M/s1600/aa.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695662490048347714" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNcqKUKsRA826IFduh0gWjvaRYtQ4VPnb5WqcH5W-B9zAdFst8mW2bIkoN-daiQB-oa7AEf4XOySagilPLbndzSPyBENlwJv1q1qoTaQBs9Hj752xSmhjkCD3aMbbiBQ1SQ_6lDQO-F8M/s400/aa.png" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 279px;" /></a>Oh my, how times have changed! In the 1930s, Dr. George W. Crane interviewed some 600 husbands and wives about the merits and demerits of their spouses. He then compiled the results into this rating scale (<em>click the scale to enlarge</em>). Not sure I'd make such a good wife... xoxo <br /><br />[Via <a href="http://rubypr.com/blog/2011/07/20/marital-rating-scale/">Ruby Press</a>]

Marital rating scale

Oh my, how times have changed! In the 1930s, Dr. George W. Crane interviewed some 600 husbands and wives about the merits and demerits of th...

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Mugshot wedding

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3PrsWeIdTazRDKY73b-rXeCEYRQ5xlM9f_br5V-tajC0GEkc4tunACkvdZ-Kh70bXYZNZVvOF9fxhxPwx8UJbxCjP1PVkcRKNgEQCA2gShbZutUOdhkw2D-IsSbKSp9GmipE-zEW4XfM/s1600/aa.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693215121528071074" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3PrsWeIdTazRDKY73b-rXeCEYRQ5xlM9f_br5V-tajC0GEkc4tunACkvdZ-Kh70bXYZNZVvOF9fxhxPwx8UJbxCjP1PVkcRKNgEQCA2gShbZutUOdhkw2D-IsSbKSp9GmipE-zEW4XfM/s400/aa.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 296px;" /></a><div align="center"> </div><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7004/6624547655_efd9dd8d22_o.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7004/6624547655_efd9dd8d22_o.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 567px;" /></a>How creative are Kristi and Noah? Their crime: These super-awesome, mugshot-style photos they took before their wedding. I love how everyone (<em>including her mom!</em>) held signs to go along with their photo. Can you imagine how fun their reception must have been? Such a hoot! xoxo<br /><br />[Photos by <a href="http://www.shineonwithlb.com/2011/10/montagues-and-capulets.html">Lindsay Baumgartner</a> and <a href="http://www.jenarmstrongphotography.net/">Jennifer Armstrong</a>, via <a href="http://lapetitechoue.blogspot.com/2011/11/mugshot-wedding.html">La Petite Choue</a>

Mugshot wedding

How creative are Kristi and Noah? Their crime: These super-awesome, mugshot-style photos they took before their wedding. I love how everyon...

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Love Lounge: Do you know your parents' engagement story?

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpT4nbbHP5BtWIrSF5wkqiMU0y9n878aoNY2WE_Er59joC7aEqUirQDP7p0BgPZgtBIM1kch2urjNvbuSqN5LfTkhOfbC_BDNB0bqu8cV1baa83TscD3ScMcEzn2qrd5hEpMzfkv4jSaXG/s1600/aa.bmp"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688286931382098850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpT4nbbHP5BtWIrSF5wkqiMU0y9n878aoNY2WE_Er59joC7aEqUirQDP7p0BgPZgtBIM1kch2urjNvbuSqN5LfTkhOfbC_BDNB0bqu8cV1baa83TscD3ScMcEzn2qrd5hEpMzfkv4jSaXG/s400/aa.bmp" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 316px;" /></a><a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2010/06/wedding-week-my-parents-anniversary.html">My parents</a> got engaged 34 years ago this week -- yesterday, in fact, to be more precise. I was talking about it with my mom last night when I realized that I didn't know very much of the story behind their E Day. So being the curious person that I am, I began to subtly interrogate her with questions. <br /><br /><em>Who proposed?<br />Where did the romantic moment take place?<br />Was a sparkler presented?</em><br /><br />I was expecting an elaborately detailed and romantic proposal, complete with a string quartet. I'd always imagined my father having memorized his speech, with a copy of it in his shirt pocket in case he got nervous and forgot his lines. I pictured my mother sitting next to him after he proposed, looking down at her ring, and then both of them dreaming up plans for their perfect wedding. <br /><br />Surprisingly, though, my mom told me the entire affair was actually pretty low-key. My father proposed to her in his parents' house. He was 26, and my mom was 21. He didn't have a ring at the time, so they went and picked one out together. <br /><br />I'd always thought I'd wanted that fairytale, romantic proposal full of "I love yous" and "forevers" and "soul mate." But maybe you can still have that even with a not-so-traditional proposal. My parents did, and they were the most in-love couple I've ever met. So maybe in the end, that whole grand, over-the-top proposal isn't really all that important. It's romantic, sure, but it's what comes days, months and even years after saying "Yes" that matters the most.<br /><br /><strong>So, friends, I'd love to know: Do you know your parents' engagement story? Was it traditional or more unique? Does your mom still have her engagement ring (that's one question I forgot to ask my mom!)? Are you currently engaged? Are you planning to pop the question soon? Do you think a beau is planning to pop the question to you soon? Let's talk all things engagement, friends... xoxo</strong><br /><br />P.S. <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2010/02/inspiration-romantic-relaxing.html">Four</a> <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2010/03/inspiration-travel-themed-engagement.html">romantic</a> <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2010/11/up-inspired-engagement.html">engagement</a> <a href="http://melissabxoxo.blogspot.com/2010/12/camping-engagement-shoot.html">shoots</a>.

Love Lounge: Do you know your parents' engagement story?

My parents got engaged 34 years ago this week -- yesterday, in fact, to be more precise. I was talking about it with my mom last night when...

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MEMO TO MEN: Virginity true or false

TO: Men all over the planet <br />FROM: Melissa <br />RE: Virginity myths<br />DATE: December 5, 2011<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDVh_Fg43LhyphenhyphenDtxTI0X2dCeYJehmnB47vvB60Dmg1mJrZo8can2w5zLLrnlxUPJuRHPnSz3X5t6Ldc-WBkvcfRN-0UHRFQwvaU_CCmX29ALwrlz8mkgsz5puHN-w063APwccZha2ymkaI/s1600/01.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682676546577927922" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDVh_Fg43LhyphenhyphenDtxTI0X2dCeYJehmnB47vvB60Dmg1mJrZo8can2w5zLLrnlxUPJuRHPnSz3X5t6Ldc-WBkvcfRN-0UHRFQwvaU_CCmX29ALwrlz8mkgsz5puHN-w063APwccZha2ymkaI/s400/01.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a>Boys, Madonna sang about it. Steve Carell poked fun at it. And there's an alcoholic drink named after it. And yet, I can almost guarantee you that everything you think you know about it is wrong. Completely wrong. In fact, I'd be willing to bet that nearly everything you've ever been told about The Big V is utterly and blatantly false. It's quite sad, really, those myths that tend to take on a life of their own after years of being recounted and recounted. But that's just what they are...myths. And, boys, if I'm sure of anything, it's that myths, like rules, are meant to be broken. So let's crack open this virgin myth nonsense, shall we, boys? I give you the Top 3 Myths About Virgins...<br /><br /><strong>You think your virgin radar is spot-on</strong><br />You think you've got the perfect description of a virgin in your head, don't you? After all, she (<em>or he</em>) is obviously easy to spot. So, who exactly is she, boys? The girl with the big glasses who you see on the train every morning and who has yet to look up from her book? Your prude of a co-worker? I'm sorry to disappoint, boys, but sometimes, virgin-spotting isn't like bird watching where you whip out your binoculars and can easily spot them from hundreds of feet away. It's just not that easy. And contrary to popular belief, we don't wear name tags, either.<br /><br /><strong>We're choosing to be virgins for religious reasons</strong><br />Of course, religion and virginity go hand-in-hand for some people, and I fully respect that. But, that doesn't apply to everyone. It certainly doesn't apply to me. In fact, religion never even factored into my choice. The lesson here, boys: Don't assume you know the reason someone's a virgin. <br /><br /><strong>Women, after a certain age, are ashamed of being a virgin and need help </strong><br />A woman in her early '30s wrote to <a href="http://www.glamour.com/sex-love-life/blogs/smitten/2011/07/help-this-30-year-old-virgin-m.html">Glamour</a> over the summer, wondering if she was too old to be a virgin. I often wonder why that's something women would be ashamed of. Society tells us that if you haven't, umm, taken to the bedroom by a certain age, then there's something wrong with you. But not all women (<span style="font-style:italic;">and especially not this woman</span>) feed into that, boys. Not every woman hide her head in shame at the mere uttering of the word virgin. Some women (<span style="font-style:italic;">especially this woman</span>) are surprisingly comfortable and secure in who they are. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmeY_17MDExnAtmM9IE5l8KJYlSDQlt5XVtRJBoQbbVyQ2rceT_ENiYJcNV_7xQ_I5udNqJWvd3HumfW7Hx0ASiA0x6AC68RtWsf2OXkOp0ythh9zXAUblPbGuG-PJBOuiYF2Hpu-aA18z/s1600/02.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682676543667264578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmeY_17MDExnAtmM9IE5l8KJYlSDQlt5XVtRJBoQbbVyQ2rceT_ENiYJcNV_7xQ_I5udNqJWvd3HumfW7Hx0ASiA0x6AC68RtWsf2OXkOp0ythh9zXAUblPbGuG-PJBOuiYF2Hpu-aA18z/s400/02.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 0px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a>I know you probably think virgins are some crazy creatures, but I assure you that we aren't a species you should live in fear of. We're actually a lot like you, except for, well, the whole between-the-sheets shenanigans. In fact, you probably won't even be able to pick us out of a crowd. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">So what do you think of virgins, boys? Are you intimidated? Confused? Don't care? I'd love to hear your thoughts... xoxo </span><br /><br />[Photos via <a href="http://www.leloveimage.blogspot.com">Le Love</a>]

MEMO TO MEN: Virginity true or false

TO: Men all over the planet FROM: Melissa RE: Virginity myths DATE: December 5, 2011 Boys, Madonna sang about it. Steve Carell poked fun at ...

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