Cue 80’s music. I’ve discovered IKEA and am trying not to buy everything in sight! Popular topics of conversation include giant helium canisters, gold spray paint and ‘how much glitter is appropriate?’ Although it’s exciting, I’m not going to lie. I am stressed. I still feel excited about becoming a Mrs, but the drudgery of wedmin has hit and I feel like I’m wading through treacle.
I’ve realised that rather than streamlining things I’m becoming less efficient because I’m trying to do too much at once. I also feel a bit silly even writing this, because how can organsing a party for a few hours be stressful enough to give me heartburn?
But then I hate the idea of portraying myself as someone unflappable who is gliding through the wedding stuff with ease. I know it will definitely be worth it, and I’m sure I’ll be fine once I get organised again!
Despite my wobble, so much fun stuff has happened since my last post. I’ve made some last minute changes to my dress, possibly ordered too many pairs of shoes (is this possible?) and had fun feeling like royalty at a tasting session. I’ve been lucky enough to have had two hen do’s which were thoughtful, fun and well organised.
It really highlighted how fortunate I am to have amazing people around me who have helped me to be confident enough to walk down this aisle of faith. That may sound silly, but for someone like me who is used to relying on myself; entrusting a part of my heart and soul to someone else would not have been possible without my friends who have been an unwavering powerhouse of strength over the years. Just reading that paragraph back makes me emotional so who knows what I’ll be like on the day!
Photography was always a big deal for us, and we spent hours look at different styles before deciding on Charlie Campey. Last month we had a fun afternoon on our engagement shoot and felt so glad we’d spent those hours finding him! Charlie made us both feel at ease and we got some really special photos, which will stand the test of time.
It was mainly based around the South Bank, as that’s where we had our first date. The madness of central London provides a nice contrast to the serenity of Richmond Park, where we’ll have some wedding photos. We’ve also booked Starr Videography and a great covers band.
Wedding lists. How do people feel about them? I have happily bought people gifts/given money in the past, but the thought of me making a list of things I want makes me feel very awkward. I know how expensive weddings are for guest, with hotels, time off and outfits all adding to the cost. The last thing I want is for people to feel obligated to buy us something. That said, some of our relatives have been insistent that we have a list and so I’ve had to relent! We are both so grateful that people want to come and share our day with us that any presents we receive are a bonus. My feeling is that we’ll need the love of our family and friends throughout our marriage and that is the biggest gift we can receive.
The recent story about the woman who chose her grandmother as one of her bridesmaids really struck a chord with me. My Granny is walking me down the aisle and we’re incredibly close, so it’s nice to see others appreciate their elderly relatives!
James’ parents also celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary recently and I loved celebrating with his family. I feel incredibly blessed to be able to learn so much from both families I’m a part of, and I hope this helps us through challenging times in the future.
If you’re still reading, thank you for joining me on this journey! Being given this opportunity has reminded me how much I love writing and having a permanent record of my thoughts and feelings at this special time is priceless.
Signing out as a Miss…
Ria x
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Ria Clarke and James Rice will marry on 5th September 2015. You can connect with Ria via Instagram @SouthLondonLass
