party planning

Back to Macy's tonight for something called the "Sip and Scan," sort of a mash-up of party and wedding registry. They even had a DJ spinning, which made shopping all that more enjoyable (I was caught doing the booty slap by one of the sales clerks... LOL). Anyway, I think we got most of it done, and it was entertaining... even if the drinks turned out to be "mocktails."

Olive Branch Salt & Petter, designed by Michael Aram.
All rights reserved.

It is comforting to realize that in many ways Sarah and I have the same style—definitely drawn to the organic shapes and particular patterns. We really liked some of the items that designer Michael Aram had on display. This little salt and pepper shaker was nice, but I'm not sure we can justify the pricing.

Anyway, another interesting night on the road to the big day. We are starting to get our RSVPs back, which is fun... especially when there are little notes from our friends and family included. 

www.michaelaram.com

Wedding License and Registration, Please

Yesterday Sarah and I started another interesting process in the planning for our upcoming marriage: opening up wedding registries. I have to say that being artists and working in the non-profit world, it felt a little strange to us.

Oh dear. Getting "zap-happy."

We're both used to being frugal, so it was hard to wrap ourselves around the idea of picking out whatever we wanted or could imagine having. At times we hesitated-- sure, we could use a paper shredder, but is that really a "romantic" gift? Here was a case where we were supposed to be thinking of ourselves, but it was hard not to consider our own guests-- I guess we're like that.

After awhile, we did start to have fun with it. We were given big scanning guns, and went around zapping our most desired items. If only this could be used beyond the department stores: new creative, well-paid work? No problem-- just zap it! Lose ten pounds? Zap away!

I found it amusing that as we embarked on this registry safari, we came across other couples on the hunt as well-- interesting that it was usually the brides who wielded the gun, while the grooms walked a few paces behind with a clipboard and resigned "yes, dear" look on their faces. We all formed our own little subculture, and I wondered if a battle might ensue over the last upright mixers or goose-down pillows. That might have been fun-- ten paces, turn and... FIRE!

Starting a wedding registry can be hard work!
Thank God for the goose-down pillows.

After awhile we were both exhausted, and decided to end our hunt for the day. Sarah is at work today, but I have been told of a bridal show happening out in Saratoga, with lots of vendors and the opportunity to win free wedding bands and other goodies. That's all well and good, but I
find it hard to shake the reality of the "here and now." I wonder if my time might be better spent looking at ways to make more money or perfecting my craft, so that we might enjoy a more comfortable and satisfying future by our own design. The fairy tale aspect of weddings is fun, but before you know it the clock is chiming and you need to get to work before that new ride turns back into a pumpkin.