Always the Bridesmaid, Never the Bride

I’ve always been dead set on the idea of not walking down the aisle.  I always thought I would be happy just having someone that I really connect with in my life.  I don’t really need the expense of a wedding and a piece of paper to say “I Love You”.  I guess that stems from the lack of cute old couples in my life, but that’s how I’ve always felt; that I’m just not the marrying kind. 

Ahh, but something happened last week that warmed the cockles of my marriageless heart.  A dear friend asked me to be one of her bridesmaids.  When she popped the question to me I balled like an overgrown baby.  These were not sobs and wails of wedding fear and revulsion, but tears of joy.  Out of all honesty, I am truly honoured and excited to support her along the way.  So, when she asked if I would attend a bridal show with her over the weekend, I was more than ecstatic to join in on the experience.  But, during the days leading up to the show, I was wondering to myself if I was going to catch the Spring Fever, just by attending!  Was I going to be one of the girls, like all of my friends growing up that envisioned her wedding day, a prince charming and a white picket fence?

Well, the answer is NO.  I went, I saw and I conquered.  I think I was a pretty supportive bridesmaid, got my makeup done and ate some cupcakes.  It was overall a great day!  I was more excited about the idea of my friend’s wedding and looking hot in my future bridesmaid’s dress, that sitting back and daydreaming about my own fantasy wedding didn’t really cross my mind.  I had one moment of thinking about my own wedding day when I saw a great vintage inspired gown, but I think that that just has to do with my love of vintage couture.

I may not be the marrying kind but if it ever comes up in the future or yours for that matter, I’ll be full of ideas and wedding advice.  That’s what happens when you’re always a bridesmaid and never a bride.  I think I can handle it.

Till next time

Mr. Perfect

  The more we grow as individuals, the more we realize what is important to us in a potential partner and for us in a relationship.  I’ve heard over the years and have experienced for myself that having a ‘list’ can be beneficial.  Figuring out what is a must helps for us to narrow down our Mr. Perfect.

  When I was 19, it was a must for my potential partner to make me laugh, have a car, like going to concerts and to be able to stay up all night to bar hop and dance.  That’s what I remember.  Things have defiantly changed!  A partner with humour is still a must on my list.  A love for music is very important.  A partner with a car, isn't really so necessary.  And well, I no longer bar hop.   

  It’s important to look at where you are now in your life and who will compliment and grow with you.  Everyone should have a list.  I’m not talking about writing out a list of 50 must haves including eye colour, astrological signs and the status of ones abdominals, but a list of characteristics that are important to you.  Which are the characteristics that are definite have not’s?  Which ones are must haves?  And which characteristics would be a nice bonus?

  During my dating experiences, I’ve learned about which traits and characteristics are my must haves and have not’s.  For me, my list is as follows;

Have Not’s:  I can’t stand someone who; is rude, doesn’t take responsibility for his own actions, is petty, self-centered, undependable and always thinks of himself as the victim. 

Must Haves:  I need someone who; will make me laugh, that will communicate, that is willing to take a risk and try something new, has a passion, that is confident and driven and that has patience when life gives us ups and downs.

Bonuses:  I’d be even happier if; he can cook (because I can’t!), enjoys live music, is interested in travelling together, loves animals and has a smile that’s contagious.

  When you write out your own list, it helps you to realize what is actually important for you in a potential partner.  Your list will always be changing as you continue to grow as an individual, but you’ll see that some of the characteristics on your list will never waiver.  Look for someone that carries those traits.  He’ll be the one that you’ve been looking for.  Hopefully he’ll be your Mr. Perfect.  Happy hunting ladies!

Till next time