Where do I even begin with this blog. My incredible friends and family sure know how to make a girl feel special. That said, be prepared for a bit of a sappy blog post today.

I've worked in the wedding industry for almost 6 years now. I've seen a lot of different things and heard a lot of different stories along the way. I always hear the phrase 'Nothing like a wedding to bring the family together,' and I know a lot of people joke when they say that or roll their eyes, but I can't help but believe it. I not only feel so lucky to be marrying my best friend, but I get to do it surrounded by so many wonderful people who have come together and supported us over the past 4 years.

Joe and I haven't had the most traditional relationship with his amputation and professional snowboarding career and all, but it's built who we are as a couple, as individuals, and how far we've come. And we wouldn't have been able to do that without all of the love and support of all of our friends and family along the way.

One of the coolest things I noticed was how many friends there were from different phases of my life. I had family and friends of my moms who knew me since before I was even born, I had friends from middle school, high school, college, friends I've made through different aspects of my adult life. It's just so cool to see them all in one place and to see the people I love most in this world chat and get to know one another.

I was pretty insistent that we didn't play any games at my shower because that's just not me. I'm not really a fan. But when I got there and saw everyone that was there for Joe and I from all those different times of my life, I did ask one thing: as I opened the gifts, people had to share how they knew and a good memory of us. I am such a sucker for things like that. And it was awesome to hear about all the different things people remembered.

Honestly, it's taking me so long to post this blog because every time I go to write something, it's hard for me to express just how thankful I am. Thankful for seriously the best mom and sister anyone could ever ask for, the best future in-laws who have made me feel like one of the family from the beginning, the best bridesmaids who went the extra mile to help and be there, the best family, some of whom drove down just to be there, for always being there and so supportive, and for the best friends who have been with me through so much and continue to show just how amazing they are.

Thank you to each and every one of them and to every one who has been a part of our crazy journey these past four years. It makes me that much more excited for our big day in just a few months!

Event Planning & Styling | Jeri & Donna Hetrick

Cake | Sorby Sweets

My Dress | Camilyn Beth from Monkee's of Fredericksburg

My Shoes | Tory Burch from Monkee's of Fredericksburg

Chair Rental | Bella Giornata Events

Florals | Wegmans

Floral Styling | Jeri Hetrick