Witnessing an Engagement

Being a junkie off all things wedding related, I have always wanted to witness a public engagement. This past Saturday night, I got to do just that! It was just as exciting as I thought it would be. My husband and I were on the dance floor at Frankie's Blue Room in Naperville (celebrating our anniversay, no less). The DJ made an announcement and before we could even move off the floor, a guy got down on one knee and proposed to his girlfriend. 

Being at an advantage of proximity, I was able to get a really good video of the event. I congratulated the couple and offered the video. OK, I'll admit it, I also gave them my card (and a really nice deal to go with it!). I was just so happy to be witness to such a joyful event. 

On occasion, I hear about my brides proposal story but not often enough. I hope it won't be intrusive but I am going to bring it up more often now!

All my best,
Bonnie

Mother of the Groom

"I can't believe my son gets to see you in that beautiful gown coming down the aisle!" These were the words that were spoken from a very choked up mother-in-law to be. It hit me then how many of my brides bring their groom's mother along on their bridal gown shopping trips. It's really lovely to see the wonderful relationships between these women. It is also nice to see how really grateful the MOG's are to have been asked. They tend to offer their opinions less freely (thank you) and respect not only the bride but the mother of the bride as well. I hope to be introduced to many more MOG's at my upcoming appointments!

All my best,
Bonnie

Moms!

MOB (Mother of the Bride), one of the most important people in the wedding party. I long for the day to be the "MOB". I, like the wonderful MOB's of today, will keep my thoughts to myself, think only of my daughter's feelings and smile all the time! You think I'm kidding right? Nope! 

This is what I've noticed...MOB's have become so complacent, so willing to let their daughters pick any gown they wish, so happy, no matter what their daughters try on, that it is driving the BTB (Bride To Be) INSANE! The wonderful TV shows, such as "Say Yes To The Dress" and "I Found The Gown," have taught these mothers to be considerate and compassionate. But, nobody told the BTB that she would be losing the time honored tradition of being annoyed with her mother for being too pushy, too opinionated and all together a pain in the a** Brides are now frustrated by their mother's lack of opinion. They take it as a loss of interest. Some even act out, yelling at their non pushy mothers. 

I have to say, I am enjoying the change.. MOB's have turned the table. The power is ours! I'm sure it wont last, but I now want a "time out" chair for the brides who become exasperated with their AYWMOB's (Anything You Want Mother Of the Brides!)

All my best,
Bonnie

Reviews, Reviews, Reviews...

As a boutique owner, I am consistently being told to "get those reviews." There are even some websites which rate us based on our reviews. Well, as much as I would like to rank highly on these sites, I cannot ask (or as I really feel it is, beg) for reviews. I have been so blessed to receive some really generous accolades. They have been unsolicited and therefore really felt genuine. I continually try to better myself and my business based on these reviews. I strive to live up to the expectations of my future brides who will read these reviews and hope for a similar experience. 


When a bride takes the time to let other people know of her experience in my shop, I truly appreciate it. The one thing I regret regarding my past reviews is that I didn't take the time to thank each and everyone who wrote something. In the beginning, I didn't realize that I could comment and then it seemed too late. Well, I am going to work on this. I am also going to be more conscious of writing my own reviews when I receive good service in a place of business.. I hope to make another shop owner feel the pride that I feel every time I receive the message "you have a new review"!

All my best,
Bonnie

Marriage is like looking in a Mirror

So, I was thinking....

Marriage is difficult.  Anyone who says otherwise is flat out lying!  I have been married for 27 years and I can honestly say that I am truly happily married but I also know that my spouse and I have worked very hard at it. While we are very lucky to have found each other, that is not enough. We work hard and we are rewarded!   

I look at marriage like this....

Marriage is like looking in a mirror.  Most of the time you are content with what you see.  Some times, you think "damn, I look great" and sometimes you want to throw the mirror across the room.  Thankfully, if you work hard (and love deeply), the contentment and greatness come far more often than a potentionally cracked mirror!  

Someday, I will tell you my love story,  but for now...all my best, Bonnie