I've started a good dozen different blog topics, uploaded pictures, but keep coming back to this one.
It's almost March, which means we're in the final stretch of the school year. It's been a wonderful year with my students, but I can't help but to zoom in on some of the challenges I've faced this year.
Pacing
I disagree with our grade level chair on pacing and classroom practices. His strategies work for him and he's a great teacher, but his methods don't work for me.
He's also used to doing a bulk of the work for the grade level, which I'm sure has been a shift for him to include others in planning decisions.
However, we made the long range plans last year and I just sort of agreed to what had been always done. I didn't feel a sense of ownership because I was new to the grade level.
Being new to the grade level and having student teachers were an adjustment as well.
However, now that I'm feeling more comfortable with the third grade material, I think it's time to take a closer look at the long range plans. For me, it was something that was just completed as quickly as possible to check off a box on a list from admin. I didn't feel a sense of ownership and I rarely, if ever, looked at them.
That mindset isn't really helpful.
So I've begun drafting out my long range plans for next year but I'm making them more meaningful to me. I'm including hyper links to ideas, pinterest images, mentor text ideas, and put in a weekly social studies or science focus.
I also hope to get to create my own schedule next year. The provided one (language/writing/math/lunch/reading/specials/reading/computers) isn't really working for me. I know I can't change specials or lunch, but I'd like to start my day with computers/RTI instead of leaving it for the end of the day.
Math
I've done a good job with having my students take daily multiplication tests to track their fluency and progress towards mastery, but I don't like the tracking system I've been using. I also need to change how I have the forms organized. I also need to change the pacing to reflect NCTM's suggested guide: 1, 2, 10, 5, 0 (and so forth) as well as remove the expectation for 11s and 12s. I also need to do more math games that focus on skip counting before introducing the timed tests.
I've also incorporated more math stations into review days and practice tests before the real test, but there's still work to do.
I'm toying with the idea of station teaching for math next year.
5-10 minutes: hw check, number talk, multiplication fluency, entrance ticket
Station time: ( 3 daily stations for 20 minutes each)
1) With teacher for explicit instruction
2) computers/iPads/ST Math or math center (review/extension)
3) partner practice (on previous day's skill)
5-10 minutes: closure, discussion, hw distribution
Writing and Reading
I haven't been thrilled with my writing instruction (because it's the hardest subject to teach), so that was one subject I really put my best effort into this year. I've tried new strategies, explicitly included language lessons (rather than passively bringing it up), and used rubrics for every prompt (most of which were created with the students). We've done more publishing (typing) than ever before and I branched out with google docs.
However, all that intentional writing came at a price. I haven't done a read aloud with my students this year. I plan to re-start the one we did in October. I'm struggling to find the time. I haven't done a lot of work with syllable types and creating multi-syllabic words, due to time.
I'm not sure how to plan moving forward. I unfortunately don't always have the support from my grade level. I don't always work with people who pull their fair share of the work load, which is frustrating. As people, I like them all very much. As colleagues...there's some work to do. We are looking at the possibility of eight third grade teachers (yikes!) so realistically this would break down to two planning teams of 4.
I'm excited to try some new strategies next year, but am going to try and field test them this year. Fingers crossed!
Showing posts with label planning. Show all posts
Showing posts with label planning. Show all posts
Monday, February 19, 2018
Saturday, January 6, 2018
Centers Hack
It seems silly, but starting in a new grade level is quite similar to being a new teacher all over again. I don't necessarily know what misconceptions my students will have, I don't have a drawer full of manipulatives or centers for review/extension activities, and there's a lot of learning curves.
One of our most recent grade level meetings focused on math planning and the upcoming unit. One of the benefits of these meetings is that I can pick the brains of the other teachers who have taught this math unit before.
Here were the take aways:
Elapsed time and telling time apparently is extremely difficult for the kiddos.
A pre-test for this unit is highly recommended. (The Engage NY Module covers addition and subtraction with regrouping to the thousands, elapsed time, telling time, estimation, and rounding.)
Pre-teaching is recommended because not all the second grade teachers use Engage NY curriculum. With computers and phones, telling time on an analog (traditional) clock is a lost skill that's not necessarily reinforced at home. Very few of my students can read the analog clock in our classroom and often interrupt my teaching to blurt out a question asking about the time. It's a skill we're working on.
So we're going to do some hands-on practice with telling time and reading clocks before jumping into our next math unit.
We're going to physically build clocks, courtesy of this free {TpT download}.
I also prepped these {I have Who Has} center and {What Time is it} centers for each table. Both were freebies (my favorite) from TpT. If my students like them and they're valuable, I'll reprint on colored cardstock and laminate.
To stay organized, I make each table their own set and place it in a sandwich sized bag. I then place all the smaller bags in a gallon sized bag, along with the answer keys. It's the little tricks that make the difference.
Sunday, February 12, 2017
Learning Snapshots
I wish more of my day was spent teaching students, or preparing to teach students, rather than filling out paperwork.
Nevertheless, this is the career I signed up for. Here are some snapshots of our learning lately.
Poetry Mini-Unit
We've been working on different types of literature (RL 5.5). Students are quite familiar with the components of novels, enjoy reader's theater, but tend to avoid poetry like the plague. I get it. I don't actively seek out poetry to read during my free time either.
We spent a few days on reader's theater in small groups. I selected a passage about Mount St. Helens to tie in with our volcano unit (more on that later) and took the assignment as a speaking grade.
They also practiced taking portions of their novels and turning it into reader's theater scripts.
In doing so, students had to analyze what parts would be explicitly stated by the characters, what information would be presented in stage directions, and what parts might be eliminated.
But since poetry is a major deficit for many of my students, we decided as a planning team that this needed to be addressed. With poetry, we'll discuss summarizing, layout (stanzas, lines), figurative language, and poetic elements. Coincidentally, February is also poetry month, so we look like we're totally on top of things!
We started with a class guided poem on World of a Blossom, which actually sparked a forty minute conversation on symbolism (I budgeted twenty, tops). They glue the poem into their notebooks, then practice annotating their thinking. We worked on identifying types of figurative language before talking about what the flowers might represent.
I modified this lesson from Jefferson County's long range ELA plans, available {here}. I taught their unit with fidelity a few years ago and really enjoyed their pacing. Want just the poem? It's page 29 in the PDF.
Some of mine are experimenting with color-coding their notes. As a teacher, I allow them this flexibility because fifth grade is such a crucial time for them to develop study skills that work for them. I've had this discussion a few times with fellow teachers, but hold true to my belief that their notebooks are for them. As long as they have the basic requirements, they can annotate however they'd like. We practice multiple strategies in the first half of the year, but the second semester means I let them choose how they take notes. It helps get them ready for middle school where they'll take ownership of their learning.
From there, we did some partner and table reads. I found a book in our school library about states and poems. I selected some from the New England region to tie in with our geography unit. As a class, we read about light houses. As a table, they found alliteration in a poem about Gulls and Buoys. With partners, they read about the Islands off of Boston Harbor (complete with pirates).
Surprisingly, they're really enjoying it! We spent some time earlier in the year reading The Raven, which they liked. We'll be trying some colonial poems next, reading about Moana Loa, and ending with New Colossus. (Timely, right?)
Project Based Learning
With our project-based learning, we ended our unit on catapults and moved into colonial America (which ties in with our social studies plans). I'm so fortunate to get to work with such an awesome GATE specialist who co-plans and ties her standards in with what we're teaching.
They're doing a five class period mock simulation of Jamestown and the starving time. Each group has one leader (John Smith) that has to decide how the money is spent and which building tasks they'll complete during each given class period (season). When the whole group works together on one task, it often leads to a lot of fighting. It's interesting to watch which groups are able to divide up the work load to accomplish more during each season.
We also made sure to not select GATE students to be the group leaders.
Here a group is working on building their palisade, to protect Jamestown from wild animals and hostile natives.
Landforms
We also finished up a mini-unit on volcano formation.
A fellow teacher and Hawaiian native came in to talk about Hawaiian culture. One of her friends sent us a box of goodies from the Hawaiian Research labs on active volcanoes. We spent time exploring topographic maps of Mauna Loa and watched several Discovery Ed video clips.
We've explored equivalent fractions, fractions on a number line, adding and subtracting fractions. Once again, color coding the fractional amounts is a helpful strategy for many students. We use colored pencils quite often in math these days.
We have reviewed with bingo in small groups:
This game was part of an old {donorschoose} project and is still loved by students years later. Thank you again to friends, family, and strangers who continue to support my students and their learning.
Up next?
This week brings the 100th day of school, Valentine's day and the class party, and getting ready to go to the neighboring middle school for a tour.
#yeareightisgreat
Nevertheless, this is the career I signed up for. Here are some snapshots of our learning lately.
Poetry Mini-Unit
We've been working on different types of literature (RL 5.5). Students are quite familiar with the components of novels, enjoy reader's theater, but tend to avoid poetry like the plague. I get it. I don't actively seek out poetry to read during my free time either.
We spent a few days on reader's theater in small groups. I selected a passage about Mount St. Helens to tie in with our volcano unit (more on that later) and took the assignment as a speaking grade.
They also practiced taking portions of their novels and turning it into reader's theater scripts.
In doing so, students had to analyze what parts would be explicitly stated by the characters, what information would be presented in stage directions, and what parts might be eliminated.
But since poetry is a major deficit for many of my students, we decided as a planning team that this needed to be addressed. With poetry, we'll discuss summarizing, layout (stanzas, lines), figurative language, and poetic elements. Coincidentally, February is also poetry month, so we look like we're totally on top of things!
We started with a class guided poem on World of a Blossom, which actually sparked a forty minute conversation on symbolism (I budgeted twenty, tops). They glue the poem into their notebooks, then practice annotating their thinking. We worked on identifying types of figurative language before talking about what the flowers might represent.
I modified this lesson from Jefferson County's long range ELA plans, available {here}. I taught their unit with fidelity a few years ago and really enjoyed their pacing. Want just the poem? It's page 29 in the PDF.
From there, we did some partner and table reads. I found a book in our school library about states and poems. I selected some from the New England region to tie in with our geography unit. As a class, we read about light houses. As a table, they found alliteration in a poem about Gulls and Buoys. With partners, they read about the Islands off of Boston Harbor (complete with pirates).
Surprisingly, they're really enjoying it! We spent some time earlier in the year reading The Raven, which they liked. We'll be trying some colonial poems next, reading about Moana Loa, and ending with New Colossus. (Timely, right?)
Project Based Learning
With our project-based learning, we ended our unit on catapults and moved into colonial America (which ties in with our social studies plans). I'm so fortunate to get to work with such an awesome GATE specialist who co-plans and ties her standards in with what we're teaching.
They're doing a five class period mock simulation of Jamestown and the starving time. Each group has one leader (John Smith) that has to decide how the money is spent and which building tasks they'll complete during each given class period (season). When the whole group works together on one task, it often leads to a lot of fighting. It's interesting to watch which groups are able to divide up the work load to accomplish more during each season.
We also made sure to not select GATE students to be the group leaders.
Here a group is working on building their palisade, to protect Jamestown from wild animals and hostile natives.
Landforms
We also finished up a mini-unit on volcano formation.
A fellow teacher and Hawaiian native came in to talk about Hawaiian culture. One of her friends sent us a box of goodies from the Hawaiian Research labs on active volcanoes. We spent time exploring topographic maps of Mauna Loa and watched several Discovery Ed video clips.
We've explored equivalent fractions, fractions on a number line, adding and subtracting fractions. Once again, color coding the fractional amounts is a helpful strategy for many students. We use colored pencils quite often in math these days.
We have reviewed with bingo in small groups:
This game was part of an old {donorschoose} project and is still loved by students years later. Thank you again to friends, family, and strangers who continue to support my students and their learning.
Up next?
This week brings the 100th day of school, Valentine's day and the class party, and getting ready to go to the neighboring middle school for a tour.
#yeareightisgreat
Tuesday, February 7, 2017
Field Trips & February
I didn't do so great with my whole finish a book a month goal...
To be fair, a lot of events {occurred in January}, so I can't be too upset.
I'm currently dealing with a sinus infection. They've lessened with frequency post {surgery}, but are still quite unbearable. I get another new student today (that makes 37 in case anyone was keeping track) and we have an outdoor field trip...with a wind advisory. Clogged nasal passages meant I woke up at four having trouble breathing (despite medication and a humidifier), so it's been an incredibly productive day before seven am. I scheduled our tax appointment, took out the trash, tweeted my senators about blocking DeVos's nomination for Secretary of Education, graded, and read two chapters of my novel (ya know, the one I was supposed to finish in January).
We also got our Donor's Choose project funded! We've got another one collecting funds on another one entitled {I am Not the Enemy}. This one requests books on the Holocaust, Jewish and Muslim faith, non-violent resistance, and Native American Indians. Subtle, right? I'm not ashamed of providing my students with information about the world. They shouldn't be scared of their neighbors. They shouldn't be ashamed of their backgrounds.
I've been asked if I fear a censorship letter from the government. Quite frankly, it'd be an honor to receive such a letter. To be viewed as a threat for spreading truth. I'd be right up there with the scientists, the media, and the National Parks Service. #goals
Looking ahead to February...
We've already celebrated a 30th birthday party, hosted a Super Bowl gathering, and enjoyed a Netflix marathon. I also attended a friend's bridal shower and went #blackout for a stand against DeVos.
Also up on the docket for this month:
1) We have three field trips. Today's is the Springs Preserve, we're going to the middle school for a tour, and my class won a bonus trip to the Smith Center at the end of the month for a play.
2) We're celebrating our four year anniversary with buying a mattress and getting our taxes done. Hooray for romance and adulting.
3) Our bathroom cabinet remodel will be almost done. I'm staining our new built ins myself to save on cost (and because I want them to perfectly match the other cabinets).
4) Finalizing the details of a baby shower. Unfortunately, the bridal shower I was planning is no longer happening because the couple split. I don't know the details but I wish them both the best. I don't have the receipts for the items purchased, but luckily another friend is hosting a baby girl baby shower in the upcoming months and is willing to buy some of the items off of me at cost.
5) Hosting a bridal shower for a co-worker (and his soon to be wife) on Friday. I've got help for this one and hopefully enough supplies. I'll find out Thursday night when I set up!
6) Finishing The Hammer of Thor, creating the TpT products, and starting the next novel for Battle of the Books.
In the mean time, feel free to visit {my store} and enjoy some discounts with the flash sale!
Saturday, January 28, 2017
Wedding Steps
With a few friends recently engaged, I figured I'd share our "how we got married without killing each other" system:
Announcing Our Engagement
First, we called our families and friends. Those closest to us deserved to find out in person (or via text) before social media. After we'd contacted those that we needed to, we posted the cliche kissing picture with my ring hand out. Many congratulatory messages ensued.
Insuring the Ring
Thank goodness for pinterest because I didn't know I had to get my ring inspected, appraised, and added to our home owner's insurance policy (or renter's policy). I set up an appointment at a local jewelry store and took the information to my insurance agent.
Picking a date
We knew we wanted to get married outside with pleasant weather. For us, that meant early spring (Feb-April) or late fall (Oct-Nov). We looked at 3 day weekends and holidays for out of town guests. We didn't want to take any major holidays (Christmas, Easter, Halloween, Valentine's Day, or Thanksgiving). We considered New Year's Eve until we realized out expensive hotel rooms in Las Vegas would be for our guests. B didn't want it near his birthday (April) and I didn't want it overshadowed by the first of April because some of our groomsmen have the tendency to take jokes a little too far. We knew we wanted to get married on a Friday because it was significantly cheaper and that way we could afford an open bar (one of our must haves). We picked Veteran's Day (11-11) and conveniently, many of our teacher friends already had the day off.
Touring locations
We asked for suggestions from friends and coworkers. Some venues never got back to us (cough Springs Preserve cough), some were too small for our event (Mt. Charleston), some weren't going to be practical (lake cruise at sunset wouldn't work for seasick guests), some were run down, and some were simply stunning. We toured a half dozen venues over several weeks, never seeing more than 2 per day. I went into each appointment with a good 2 dozen questions. Some venues laughed at my prepared and logical approach, so we knew that wasn't the choice for us. I took notes during the meetings and refused to commit to anything that day. We thought about hotels nearby and accommodations for guests. We narrowed our choice down to two different venues. We were fortunate to be able to take our moms to see both venues and listen to their opinions.
From there, we made a pro-con list about each one....
on massive chart paper. One of us is way more type A than the other.
Our top two venues were gorgeous, but we ended up going with {Stallion Mountain} because it felt more like us. The other had a grand ball room and massive staircase, which made him feel uncomfortable. Stallion Mountain was close to our home (under 10 minutes), had 2 hotels nearby, and was close to the Las Vegas strip for visitors. It also had a spacious parking lot, security guards, and perhaps the most catering and kind staff I've ever worked with.
We booked our wedding (14 months out) and announced our date on social media...
with the pets of course!
Asking our bridal party
We had a small engagement party over Labor Day weekend so we could ask our bridal party. I originally wanted a small bridal party, but he kept asking groomsmen so my original idea of one bridesmaid went out the window (which turned out to be wonderful). I saw my bestie a few weeks before (we live on opposite coasts) and got to ask her in person at the airport. We decided on asking our mutual friend to be our officiant and I asked her over lunch. We "popped" the question to many of the other bridal party members at the engagement shower. I popped the question with cute bags of flavored popcorn.
B ignored the cute bags I made and asked his boys outside, with beer.
Meeting with the coordinator
We lucked out with our venue because we had a coordinator handle many of the logistics for us. We were fortunate enough to have a coordinator for the day of logistics, freeing up my bridal party to spend the morning getting ready, snacking, and enjoying mimosas.
Picking colors
We went with deep navy, blush, and gold for our colors. I originally wanted blush for my bridesmaids, but since they were all on the paler side, they looked a tad...naked. Not the classy look I wanted. So we had our girls in deep navy and the boys in gray suits with navy accents. B was in a classic black tux and I had my cream gown. Navy was a flattering shade (since one bridesmaid was pregnant), but not as harsh as black. We then picked our theme (slightly rustic, slightly polka dotted, classic, with fun quirky twists). We wanted our wedding to be elegant, but still reflect us as a couple. After all, it's a celebration of our love.
Favors
Since we had a photo booth (one of my must have's), I asked our photo booth rental about book mark strips. Not only would this tie in my love of reading, but also give our guests a space to save their photo strips. I typed up "consider yourself booked for our photo booth" and did my own ribbon, saving some money in the process. I was able to pick up ribbon at Joann's with coupons and sales, which cut down on the cost.
We also did "hugs & kisses from the Mr. and Mrs." favors. I ordered pink kisses from Oriental Trading, waited out sales for Hugs, and got pre-cut tulle circles in navy and cream. I ordered custom tags from Etsy because the frustration of hand lettering 150 small tags wasn't worth it to me.
Photographer & DJ
Booking these next was crucial. We got recommendations from friends and our venue, then looked at sample pictures. Our photographer actually did our engagement pictures (round 2) and was easy to work with, which made a huge difference.
I met with her about a week before the wedding to go over a shot list and create a time frame. If your photographer doesn't do this, ask. We spent too much money and time on the wedding for the pictures to be something we just winged.
Jewelry
Honestly, my wedding earrings and bracelet were from {Charming Charlie}, a trendy teen store. I wanted something fancy and elegant, but I wasn't going to wear them again.
Similar styles at the bridal store were several hundred dollars, but I snagged the earrings and bracelet for $10 each. They photograph well, held up on the big day, and didn't break the bank.
Flowers
For us, these were a low priority. I went with what was in season and a few colors to save on costs. I wanted to keep my bouquet, so having a toss bouquet was important (and something I had to bring up to my florist). We had flowers for our bridesmaids, boutineers for the groomsmen, and corsages for our moms (and his grandma). We had a good half dozen meetings with our florist and she still managed to mess up the wedding day by arriving an hour late and unprepared.
The Rest
I tried to set aside an hour or two each week to work on wedding events, but at times, nothing happened for weeks and that was alright. Having a long engagement meant we could spread out our expenses and not feel rushed to make any sudden decisions. We could also wait for items to be on sale or use coupons (Joanns & Michael's) for crafting materials.
I asked for help assembling the favors. My bridesmaids (the ones who were able) came over. We had a craft night with wine and Chinese food.
We made sure to still go on date nights and talk about the future. Our wedding was one beautiful, expensive day, but I hope it's not the best day. We have the rest of our lives to look forward to and it saddens me when people spend so much time thinking about their picture perfect wedding, but not the picture perfect life they want to build.
Even with the most meticulous planning (because I'm quite type A and own it), things will go wrong. Our cupcakes had a different flavor frosting (not that I cared). Our florist was awful (that I did care about). The rehearsal dinner restaurant couldn't find our reservation (I got a little bridezilla in that moment). The groomsmen forgot to give B his gift, meaning it wasn't in pictures. Even with a detailed schedule, things didn't go 100% according to plan.
But at the end of the day, I married my best friend, surrounded by our favorite people, and had a big party afterwards. That's what counts.
Announcing Our Engagement
First, we called our families and friends. Those closest to us deserved to find out in person (or via text) before social media. After we'd contacted those that we needed to, we posted the cliche kissing picture with my ring hand out. Many congratulatory messages ensued.
Insuring the Ring
Thank goodness for pinterest because I didn't know I had to get my ring inspected, appraised, and added to our home owner's insurance policy (or renter's policy). I set up an appointment at a local jewelry store and took the information to my insurance agent.
Picking a date
We knew we wanted to get married outside with pleasant weather. For us, that meant early spring (Feb-April) or late fall (Oct-Nov). We looked at 3 day weekends and holidays for out of town guests. We didn't want to take any major holidays (Christmas, Easter, Halloween, Valentine's Day, or Thanksgiving). We considered New Year's Eve until we realized out expensive hotel rooms in Las Vegas would be for our guests. B didn't want it near his birthday (April) and I didn't want it overshadowed by the first of April because some of our groomsmen have the tendency to take jokes a little too far. We knew we wanted to get married on a Friday because it was significantly cheaper and that way we could afford an open bar (one of our must haves). We picked Veteran's Day (11-11) and conveniently, many of our teacher friends already had the day off.
Touring locations
We asked for suggestions from friends and coworkers. Some venues never got back to us (cough Springs Preserve cough), some were too small for our event (Mt. Charleston), some weren't going to be practical (lake cruise at sunset wouldn't work for seasick guests), some were run down, and some were simply stunning. We toured a half dozen venues over several weeks, never seeing more than 2 per day. I went into each appointment with a good 2 dozen questions. Some venues laughed at my prepared and logical approach, so we knew that wasn't the choice for us. I took notes during the meetings and refused to commit to anything that day. We thought about hotels nearby and accommodations for guests. We narrowed our choice down to two different venues. We were fortunate to be able to take our moms to see both venues and listen to their opinions.
From there, we made a pro-con list about each one....
on massive chart paper. One of us is way more type A than the other.
Our top two venues were gorgeous, but we ended up going with {Stallion Mountain} because it felt more like us. The other had a grand ball room and massive staircase, which made him feel uncomfortable. Stallion Mountain was close to our home (under 10 minutes), had 2 hotels nearby, and was close to the Las Vegas strip for visitors. It also had a spacious parking lot, security guards, and perhaps the most catering and kind staff I've ever worked with.
We booked our wedding (14 months out) and announced our date on social media...
with the pets of course!
Asking our bridal party
We had a small engagement party over Labor Day weekend so we could ask our bridal party. I originally wanted a small bridal party, but he kept asking groomsmen so my original idea of one bridesmaid went out the window (which turned out to be wonderful). I saw my bestie a few weeks before (we live on opposite coasts) and got to ask her in person at the airport. We decided on asking our mutual friend to be our officiant and I asked her over lunch. We "popped" the question to many of the other bridal party members at the engagement shower. I popped the question with cute bags of flavored popcorn.
B ignored the cute bags I made and asked his boys outside, with beer.
Meeting with the coordinator
We lucked out with our venue because we had a coordinator handle many of the logistics for us. We were fortunate enough to have a coordinator for the day of logistics, freeing up my bridal party to spend the morning getting ready, snacking, and enjoying mimosas.
Picking colors
We went with deep navy, blush, and gold for our colors. I originally wanted blush for my bridesmaids, but since they were all on the paler side, they looked a tad...naked. Not the classy look I wanted. So we had our girls in deep navy and the boys in gray suits with navy accents. B was in a classic black tux and I had my cream gown. Navy was a flattering shade (since one bridesmaid was pregnant), but not as harsh as black. We then picked our theme (slightly rustic, slightly polka dotted, classic, with fun quirky twists). We wanted our wedding to be elegant, but still reflect us as a couple. After all, it's a celebration of our love.
PC: Stephen Salazar Photography, LLC
Favors
Since we had a photo booth (one of my must have's), I asked our photo booth rental about book mark strips. Not only would this tie in my love of reading, but also give our guests a space to save their photo strips. I typed up "consider yourself booked for our photo booth" and did my own ribbon, saving some money in the process. I was able to pick up ribbon at Joann's with coupons and sales, which cut down on the cost.
We also did "hugs & kisses from the Mr. and Mrs." favors. I ordered pink kisses from Oriental Trading, waited out sales for Hugs, and got pre-cut tulle circles in navy and cream. I ordered custom tags from Etsy because the frustration of hand lettering 150 small tags wasn't worth it to me.
PC: Stephen Salazar Photography, LLC
Photographer & DJ
Booking these next was crucial. We got recommendations from friends and our venue, then looked at sample pictures. Our photographer actually did our engagement pictures (round 2) and was easy to work with, which made a huge difference.
I met with her about a week before the wedding to go over a shot list and create a time frame. If your photographer doesn't do this, ask. We spent too much money and time on the wedding for the pictures to be something we just winged.
Jewelry
Honestly, my wedding earrings and bracelet were from {Charming Charlie}, a trendy teen store. I wanted something fancy and elegant, but I wasn't going to wear them again.
PC: Stephen Salazar Photography, LLC
Similar styles at the bridal store were several hundred dollars, but I snagged the earrings and bracelet for $10 each. They photograph well, held up on the big day, and didn't break the bank.
Flowers
For us, these were a low priority. I went with what was in season and a few colors to save on costs. I wanted to keep my bouquet, so having a toss bouquet was important (and something I had to bring up to my florist). We had flowers for our bridesmaids, boutineers for the groomsmen, and corsages for our moms (and his grandma). We had a good half dozen meetings with our florist and she still managed to mess up the wedding day by arriving an hour late and unprepared.
The Rest
I tried to set aside an hour or two each week to work on wedding events, but at times, nothing happened for weeks and that was alright. Having a long engagement meant we could spread out our expenses and not feel rushed to make any sudden decisions. We could also wait for items to be on sale or use coupons (Joanns & Michael's) for crafting materials.
I asked for help assembling the favors. My bridesmaids (the ones who were able) came over. We had a craft night with wine and Chinese food.
We made sure to still go on date nights and talk about the future. Our wedding was one beautiful, expensive day, but I hope it's not the best day. We have the rest of our lives to look forward to and it saddens me when people spend so much time thinking about their picture perfect wedding, but not the picture perfect life they want to build.
Even with the most meticulous planning (because I'm quite type A and own it), things will go wrong. Our cupcakes had a different flavor frosting (not that I cared). Our florist was awful (that I did care about). The rehearsal dinner restaurant couldn't find our reservation (I got a little bridezilla in that moment). The groomsmen forgot to give B his gift, meaning it wasn't in pictures. Even with a detailed schedule, things didn't go 100% according to plan.
But at the end of the day, I married my best friend, surrounded by our favorite people, and had a big party afterwards. That's what counts.
PC: Stephen Salazar Photography, LLC
Saturday, January 14, 2017
Just a few of my favorite things (Wedding/Engagement related)
**Notice: This is a lengthy post because I fully enjoyed planning my wedding. It contains products we used (I'm not paid for endorsements) and ways we saved money (because weddings are expensive).
With the stress of the wedding safely behind me, I can now pause and reflect upon some of my favorite aspects of the day (and the days leading up to the event).
I had a long engagement and it was phenomenal. We were engaged on July 4, 2015 and married on November 11, 2016.
We lived together in the home we purchased before marriage, so there wasn't that rush to get married quickly. Having a long engagement meant I didn't feel pressured to make any snap decisions. It also meant I could spread out expenses, which is easier for the budget.
I took my time on creating table decor and favors. I waited out coupons for Shutterfly (invites) and Joann's for crafting purposes.
We toured several venues and toured two more than once. We could discuss our choices and it didn't feel like every spare moment of our lives was devoted to wedding planning (which B appreciated).
A long engagement also meant I could read way too many articles (pinterest, bridal magazines, the knot, etc) on wedding planning. After spending lots of time in the bridal aisles of local craft stores and attending bridal planning events, I realized I didn't really like a lot of the bridal trends and overly elaborate weddings.
I like burlap as much as the next crafty gal, but an entire wedding devoted to it? No thanks. Overly rustic and mason jars everywhere wasn't my husband's taste. So I used burlap, lace, and mason jars at my bridal shower instead!
Cute for me, just not representative of us as a couple. So I had it at my bridal shower (which was amazingly me: pink, polka dots, lace, burlap, glitter, and Harry Potter with an elegant feel. I am very blessed with amazing friends and family.)
Other wedding trends: rhinestones and feathers? Absolutely not.
Elaborate programs? We passed. Fancy place cards? We passed.
Instead, we found small ways to incorporate our interests into the big day in several ways.
One: Our Fur Babies
I got vetoed on having our dog as our ring bearer. So instead, we used our pets to announce our wedding date.
(Correction, we tried. They didn't always cooperate.)
Two: Crafting & Couponing
So anything related to weddings can be super expensive. Plain white flower girl baskets are over $20 and super bland.
Instead, I snagged some after Easter for 70% off, added ribbon in our wedding colors, added fake flowers, and made 2 for around $12.
I also made our card box. I picked up this vintage inspired suitcase at Ross a few years ago, then added burlap flowers and a banner (pre-made letters and paint). Total cost? $5 and an hour of my time. I got to use the card box at my bridal shower and the wedding.
The best part? Now that the wedding is over, it's back in the corner and stores seasonal napkins.
I liked these frames at Joann's, but not at $12.99 for 4 (we needed 5 packs).
So slowly over time, we picked up a pack at a time with a 40% off coupon. I'll be using some of the frames as thank you gifts once we receive our formal wedding pictures back.
(Completed table numbers)
As I mentioned above, we skipped making programs. Who really saves those anyway?
Instead, I waited until I had a super coupon to Joann's and picked up this chalk frame for $12 (originally $40). With some erasable chalk paint and vinyl stickers, we provided our guests with all the information they needed:
Plus we can reuse the chalkboard sign. His cousin Tony is getting married in May and his fiance asked to borrow the board (which is fine of course).
We also skipped place cards (because guests would probably lose them due to lack of pockets on dresses and the open bar factor) and used picture frames to display table information:
Plus, we can now reuse the frames for pictures in our home. Win win! (Except B doesn't count this as a win because he has to hang them.)
Three: Football
It's not a secret that we are avid football fans and fiercely loyal to our teams.
We used this football in our engagement pictures:
And as the garter toss at the wedding. (Not pictured: "Great Catch, You're Next!"). The groomsman didn't remember to take it home (cough open bar cough), so it's now on our mantle.
We took engagement pictures in our jerseys with #11 (but in our teams).
I surprised him with Broncos socks (for his cold feet) and a new #11 Somma jersey on our wedding day.
I also got myself a jersey as well because I could (and I had a coupon).
But due to miscommunication, we didn't get wedding pictures with our new jerseys. Oh well! Perhaps we'll use our matching Somma jerseys for our Christmas cards next year.
Four: Documenting moments
We had a photo guestbook made from our engagement pictures, but not everyone signed it (it happens). Because of this, I'm so glad we did other small things to document the events.
For our engagement shower, we had guests sign a vase:
It now sits on the media stand (with fake flowers) so we get to enjoy it each day. We also used the "be our guest" sign at our wedding (see above) and it now sits in our guest bedroom. I'm all about using things multiple times!
At my bridal shower, I had guests sign my "kiss the miss goodbye" frame. We used sample lip wands and cheap, vibrant lipstick so we wouldn't share cooties. I then framed a picture with 2 of my bridesmaids.
We also had our bridal party & family sign one of the large S's that I painted.
The S was also used in our engagement pictures and will soon hang on the wall. For now, it sits on the ledge.
Lastly, we followed advice on pinterest and mailed the First Family an invitation. I was a little anxious that we'd get a congrats card from Trump, but low and behold, a few days before their last days in the White House (which I'm still in denial about), we received our congratulations card from the White House.
What a fun keepsake!
Batman
My lovely husband couldn't care less about what our cake topper looked like. So I ordered this beauty off of Etsy:
It was the same cost as generic "S" ones at the store, but way more meaningful.
It now sits on the Batman shelf at home, along with our wedding toasting flutes (a Marshall's find), and some of our wedding flowers.
I had a Batman themed garter as well, compliments of one of my bridesmaids.
Keeping with tradition, it had blue in it! It was also way more fun than a traditional (bland) white and blue garter.
Harry Potter
I had a magical (pun intended) "Muggle to Mrs." themed shower.
My MOH gifted me with the most amazing ring bearer box:
Which my brother has already called dibs on for his future wedding.
We also took advantage with this iconic chapter title: (The Unbreakable Vow):
I've been asked if I'm sad our "big day" is over. My answer? Nope. It was wonderful to plan, it was a wonderful day, but my life isn't over. There are plenty of big days ahead.
With the stress of the wedding safely behind me, I can now pause and reflect upon some of my favorite aspects of the day (and the days leading up to the event).
I had a long engagement and it was phenomenal. We were engaged on July 4, 2015 and married on November 11, 2016.
We lived together in the home we purchased before marriage, so there wasn't that rush to get married quickly. Having a long engagement meant I didn't feel pressured to make any snap decisions. It also meant I could spread out expenses, which is easier for the budget.
I took my time on creating table decor and favors. I waited out coupons for Shutterfly (invites) and Joann's for crafting purposes.
We toured several venues and toured two more than once. We could discuss our choices and it didn't feel like every spare moment of our lives was devoted to wedding planning (which B appreciated).
A long engagement also meant I could read way too many articles (pinterest, bridal magazines, the knot, etc) on wedding planning. After spending lots of time in the bridal aisles of local craft stores and attending bridal planning events, I realized I didn't really like a lot of the bridal trends and overly elaborate weddings.
I like burlap as much as the next crafty gal, but an entire wedding devoted to it? No thanks. Overly rustic and mason jars everywhere wasn't my husband's taste. So I used burlap, lace, and mason jars at my bridal shower instead!
Cute for me, just not representative of us as a couple. So I had it at my bridal shower (which was amazingly me: pink, polka dots, lace, burlap, glitter, and Harry Potter with an elegant feel. I am very blessed with amazing friends and family.)
Other wedding trends: rhinestones and feathers? Absolutely not.
Elaborate programs? We passed. Fancy place cards? We passed.
Instead, we found small ways to incorporate our interests into the big day in several ways.
One: Our Fur Babies
I got vetoed on having our dog as our ring bearer. So instead, we used our pets to announce our wedding date.
(Correction, we tried. They didn't always cooperate.)
Two: Crafting & Couponing
So anything related to weddings can be super expensive. Plain white flower girl baskets are over $20 and super bland.
Instead, I snagged some after Easter for 70% off, added ribbon in our wedding colors, added fake flowers, and made 2 for around $12.
I also made our card box. I picked up this vintage inspired suitcase at Ross a few years ago, then added burlap flowers and a banner (pre-made letters and paint). Total cost? $5 and an hour of my time. I got to use the card box at my bridal shower and the wedding.
The best part? Now that the wedding is over, it's back in the corner and stores seasonal napkins.
I liked these frames at Joann's, but not at $12.99 for 4 (we needed 5 packs).
So slowly over time, we picked up a pack at a time with a 40% off coupon. I'll be using some of the frames as thank you gifts once we receive our formal wedding pictures back.
(Completed table numbers)
As I mentioned above, we skipped making programs. Who really saves those anyway?
Instead, I waited until I had a super coupon to Joann's and picked up this chalk frame for $12 (originally $40). With some erasable chalk paint and vinyl stickers, we provided our guests with all the information they needed:
Plus we can reuse the chalkboard sign. His cousin Tony is getting married in May and his fiance asked to borrow the board (which is fine of course).
We also skipped place cards (because guests would probably lose them due to lack of pockets on dresses and the open bar factor) and used picture frames to display table information:
Plus, we can now reuse the frames for pictures in our home. Win win! (Except B doesn't count this as a win because he has to hang them.)
Three: Football
It's not a secret that we are avid football fans and fiercely loyal to our teams.
We used this football in our engagement pictures:
And as the garter toss at the wedding. (Not pictured: "Great Catch, You're Next!"). The groomsman didn't remember to take it home (cough open bar cough), so it's now on our mantle.
We took engagement pictures in our jerseys with #11 (but in our teams).
I surprised him with Broncos socks (for his cold feet) and a new #11 Somma jersey on our wedding day.
I also got myself a jersey as well because I could (and I had a coupon).
But due to miscommunication, we didn't get wedding pictures with our new jerseys. Oh well! Perhaps we'll use our matching Somma jerseys for our Christmas cards next year.
Four: Documenting moments
We had a photo guestbook made from our engagement pictures, but not everyone signed it (it happens). Because of this, I'm so glad we did other small things to document the events.
For our engagement shower, we had guests sign a vase:
It now sits on the media stand (with fake flowers) so we get to enjoy it each day. We also used the "be our guest" sign at our wedding (see above) and it now sits in our guest bedroom. I'm all about using things multiple times!
At my bridal shower, I had guests sign my "kiss the miss goodbye" frame. We used sample lip wands and cheap, vibrant lipstick so we wouldn't share cooties. I then framed a picture with 2 of my bridesmaids.
We also had our bridal party & family sign one of the large S's that I painted.
The S was also used in our engagement pictures and will soon hang on the wall. For now, it sits on the ledge.
Lastly, we followed advice on pinterest and mailed the First Family an invitation. I was a little anxious that we'd get a congrats card from Trump, but low and behold, a few days before their last days in the White House (which I'm still in denial about), we received our congratulations card from the White House.
What a fun keepsake!
Batman
My lovely husband couldn't care less about what our cake topper looked like. So I ordered this beauty off of Etsy:
It was the same cost as generic "S" ones at the store, but way more meaningful.
It now sits on the Batman shelf at home, along with our wedding toasting flutes (a Marshall's find), and some of our wedding flowers.
I had a Batman themed garter as well, compliments of one of my bridesmaids.
Keeping with tradition, it had blue in it! It was also way more fun than a traditional (bland) white and blue garter.
Harry Potter
I had a magical (pun intended) "Muggle to Mrs." themed shower.
My MOH gifted me with the most amazing ring bearer box:
Which my brother has already called dibs on for his future wedding.
We also took advantage with this iconic chapter title: (The Unbreakable Vow):
I've been asked if I'm sad our "big day" is over. My answer? Nope. It was wonderful to plan, it was a wonderful day, but my life isn't over. There are plenty of big days ahead.
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