WE ARE MARRIED!!!

Marriage is not a culmination, it is a beginning. A beginning of a life that will grow and change in ways more wonderful than we can imagine. Many years from now when we look back on our life, love and this day, we will remember that flowers, music and food were not what made this day so special. It will be our memories of sharing the beginning of our life as husband and wife with you – our friends and family. Having you there with us made our wedding truly wonderful. Understanding that life holds many momentous commitments, we thank you for sharing in one of our happiest. We invite you to stay in touch with our family. Please add our family website to your favorites list for family photos and updates http://www.bonagofskifamily.blogspot.com/

We will post photos of the wedding on both websites as soon as they are available. Thank you Kili for the photo above, it was my first peek at the wedding.

Bachelorette Party!!

I do not remember the last time I had so much FUN!! Once again..my friends went beyond the call of duty. They are the best bridesmaids and maid of honor EVER. Seriously, I will challenge anyone to this battle. Sure, they call me bridezilla all the time and even kicked me out of my own wedding, insisted on having a say in all decisions but I wouldn't trade them or our experience in the last year for anything! They have made my last year happier beyond my own expectations. Love you guys!

We started the evening at the Silver Cloud Hotel in Seattle. Sounds like cheap hotel, doesn't it? I was so surprised how luxurious it was. The beds were so comfy. Other than a bad bartender (P.S. I don't need your approval to get married) who thought it was to bust my chops it was perfect. The room was decorated with balloons, party favor bags, colored M&M's, liquor bottles, and some unmentionables ;-) We had a few drinks before heading to Pyramid. There was only 5 of us for dinner but we managed to make a lot of noise and draw some attention. We had many people come to our dining room to say hello and ask what was going on. Who would have guessed that 5 girls can make so much noise. Our guests would mingle a little joining in our fun. Of course, a few had to check out the presents too. It was a great time. After a 3 hr dinner we went back to the hotel room for drinks and dessert. I can't post what my cake looked like but I can tell you it made me blush.

We then ventured to a local club called Tiki Bobs. It took awhile to get use to the nightclub scene but before long we were all dancing. I think at one time we danced for 2 hrs straight. It was so much fun!! I had not danced like that in so long. Of course, due to Kili and Sherry we had a few boys try to join our circle of dancing. They did a great job keeping the boys away allowing the girls to dance.

The party started with a bang and ended on a high. Thanks to everyone for coming out and for the great gifts. Thank you to my sister for sharing this experience with me...why didn't we have more of these before? We have some great memories to cherish. Thank you to Janee and Jessica..I mean Sherry-Ann for putting together such a great party. For all the hardwork, planning and expense, I can't thank you enough. I love you guys!

Note: Scroll ontop of the photos or click on the photos for the captions

"Where's Waldo" Guide to the Wedding

It took a lot of effort to find ways to personalize our wedding. Here is a “Where’s Waldo” guide of some of the personal touches you will find throughout the day:

Wooden Rosary – Under his tux, Mark will be wearing a special rosary blessed by Pope Benedict and placed on the tomb of Pope John Paul II located at St Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Shortly after Mark and I met, Amy (vocalist – Ave Maria) and I went on a church trip to World Youth Day 2005. One of the many highlights of our trip occurred when a Vatican guard took our rosaries and placed them on the tomb of Pope John Paul II (now a relic) praying for a special blessing for all those who come in contact with this rosary.


Personalized Handkerchief – Along with the bouquet, I will carry a hand-embroidered handkerchief, presented to me at a bridal tea party hosted by the Hall Family. The handkerchief made by Renee Hall will be passed on to Emerald and any other daughters of the family and embroidered with their wedding date.


The Date – The date June 16th holds special significance as the anniversary date when Mark and I first met.


Fortune Cookies – As a special thank-you party favor you will receive a personalized fortune cookie. Until a recent dinner, fortune cookies never held a special significance to me. Mark and I were enjoying dinner at our favorite restaurant (China House – Auburn) with my parents when out of his coat pocket Mark pulled out a handful of lil’ paper fortunes. When my mother questioned him he answered that every fortune we were ever given was kept. I do not know what was more shocking…how many times we have eaten Chinese or the sweet unnoticed gesture.


Glass Rocks – At the reception, you will notice a small glass rock holding your menu card. This small detail signifies Mark’s love for glass. I could not find colored glass rocks so I had to settle on clear glass. You still get the idea though ;-)


Red Roses – The main flower in the wedding is the same flower that Mark has given me throughout our relationship. On our first date, Mark brought me a bouquet of wild flowers with one red rose hidden in the arrangement. Ever since then Mark has given me red roses for special and not-so-special dates. Roses also hold significance to the bride. My father has a love for roses and any visitors to my parent’s home will be welcomed with a large rose garden. Oh, how can I forget to mention that Mark and I were engaged in a rose garden.

The Church – I am blessed to be a parishioner at Saint Vincent de Paul Parish for over 5 years. The parish holds a special significance since I have spent countless hours there as a LifeTeen Volunteer for 4 years. Some of the best memories and spiritual experiences have happened in that blessed church.

Friends – Anyone who knows me is aware of what a blessing my friends have been. I have made it a point to include as many friends in the wedding as possible. A big thank you to my gifted friends who are offering their services: Shelley Mauss (photography), Art Leonard (music director/piano), Amy Gallwas (music), Candice Wolfe (music), Michael G (DJ), Melody Peterson (reception coordinator), and the best bridal party E-V-E-R.

Bridal Shower

This past weekend, my sister hosted a terrific bridal shower in her new home. She did a great job organizing everything. The gathering was more than I could imagine. It was such a wonderful day with sunny skies and all the special people in my life. We had a nice time playing unique bridal shower games. I was surprised to see how competitive we all got there! And, I can't forget to mention all the thoughtful presents. Whoopee! I could barely pack them all in the car. I can't wait to use them all, it will be so much fun!

Thank you to everyone who took time out of their day to be with me!! Thank you to my sister for hosting such a nice bridal shower. Thank you to God for answered prayers - beautiful weather and beautiful family and friends to share it with!

Directions To The Ceremony

St Vincent de Paul Church
30525 8th Ave S
Federal Way, WA 98003

Directions to the Church - Southbound
Merge onto I-5 South toward TACOMA
Take the S. 272ND ST. exit - EXIT 147 (0.3 miles)
Turn RIGHT onto S 272ND ST. (0.5 miles)
Turn LEFT onto PACIFIC HWY S / WA-99 (2.2 miles)
Turn RIGHT onto S 308TH ST. (0.5 miles)
Turn RIGHT onto 8TH AVE S.


Directions to the Church - Northbound
Merge onto I-5 N toward SEATTLE
Take the S. 320TH ST. exit- EXIT 143- toward FEDERAL WAY (0.2 miles)
Turn LEFT onto S 320TH ST. (0.8 miles)
Turn RIGHT onto PACIFIC HWY S / WA-99 (0.5 miles)
Turn LEFT onto S 312TH ST. (0.4 miles)
Turn RIGHT onto 8TH AVE S.

*Directions to the reception location will be provided at the wedding ceremony.

*Customized directions available on http://www.mapquest.com/

Yeah...It Still Fits!!!

Four months after buying my dress I went back to have alterations done. Having heard horror stories about the first fitting, I was so nervous the night before. I was afraid that I wouldn't fit in the dress. To ease my nerves or maybe to squeeze me into my dress, Janee and Emerald came with me. Emerald took on the role of photographer to mark this ceremonial day. She did a great job although it took her awhile to learn how to focus the camera. Janee came as my official wedding dresser. This means she gets the honor of putting on my dress. For those of you that have not had the pleasure of putting on 10 pound wedding dress...this isn't very fun! Luckily the dress fit :-) Sadly, the poor girl who came in next didn't and had to buy a whole new wedding dress! Although, she might have came out ahead once I was told the cost of alterations. Goodness gracious! Regardless, it marked another wedding planning moment and I am glad it is done and over with. Now all I have to do is survive the final fitting next week! This time my mom will be joining us which will be so much fun!

Penguin Suits, Wine, and Cake...Oh, My!

Ever have one of those days that just makes you smile. Well, I definitely had one of those this last Saturday. After endless hours of trying on bridal/bridesmaids dresses it was finally the guy's turn to experience the agony...I mean fun. But, it was fun. Could it be that guys do not take the whole clothes thing seriously? Or maybe it is the fact that all men look good in a tux. Hands down...you can't beat a man in a tux. I have created a slide show of all the guys in their tuxes. I even added a few of Mark dancing while wearing his "try on" shirt. And of course, a picture of Malachite playing with a DS in his tux. Boys will be boys!

After our tux fitting, we went back to the house for dinner and wine/cake tastings. Mark made two great sauces for our pasta. A garlic calm sauce that was SO good and a classic red sauce. Sometimes I have to wonder if I am marrying him for his culinary skills ;-) With 5 members of the bridal party present (Mike, Neil, Bud, Janee, Sherry) we managed to "taste" over 8 wines. Some of them good and some of them bad. It was funny to hear us talk about wine like we actually knew what we were saying. Just look at our score cards on the slide show!

It was another fun night with my bridal party who have become some of the most important people in my life. I had no idea how close I would get to this group of people. I love you, guys!

Groomsman - Neil Christensen

I am happy to officially announce our latest addition to the bridal party. Neil has joined on as one of Mark's groomsmen.

Mark and Neil met at school and he quickly become a regular at our get-togethers. It didn't take long for him to become close friends with the bridal party.

A good guy with a big heart, Neil is no stranger to wearing a tux. He is a trained french horn player and master of all things Star Wars.

Thank you, Neil for sharing in our day.

"The Family Engagement Photos Slide Show"

I am happy to share with you our engagement slide show of the family. Thank you to Shelley Mauss for sharing her talents with us. We love you, Shelley!!!

http://www.shelleymaussphotography.com/slideshows/marieandmark/

Here She Goes Again....

Anyone who knows me will tell you that I have a hard time making decisions. I am the type of person that needs to know EVERYTHING before I can make a decision. It's an annoying trait that I have. When you combine that with my need to please everyone, you can say wedding planning has been a bit of a challenge. Someone asked me if I really need the input from Mark and my 2 best friend to make decisions. I said "of, course! This way if anything goes wrong then I can blame them." Yes, yes...I am joking!

So, we have decided to move the reception to a new location. Our new location is beautiful and more relaxed like us. There will be eating, drinking and dancing al fresco. Mark and the children were so excited when they saw it for the first time. Plenty of room for all the kids to enjoy. And, I know the food will be great. A friend of mine (An Affair to Remember Catering) will be making us a wonderful meal fit for a great celebration.

I have always loved outdoor weddings but knew that I couldn't have one (Catholic Church requires ceremony/sacraments to be held in a church) I was lucky to find a beautiful location that is close to the church and available on our date! We are sure that you will love it as much as we do. Pray for beautiful weather!

Here are some pictures of the location:

Gazebo with a Wrought Iron Chandelier & Candelabra

Garden Fire Pit and Benches surrounded by garden beds -

Ladies, I suggest you bring an extra pair of flats or low heel shoes for the reception.

The Garden with Grecian Pool - no you can't go swimming in it.

Introduction:

The Victorian Garden House was built in 1888 as a private residence on 80 acres of deeded land when Washington was just a Territory of the United States. Larry and Diane Kiel purchased the property in 1974 to raise their family. The home became the first Bed and Breakfast facility in Kent, Washington in 1993. Located on two and a half acres, only twenty minutes from either downtown Seattle, Bellevue, and Tacoma and minutes from SeaTac Airport.

Engagement Photos - Sneak Peek

How exciting was that?!?! Today we spent one glorious hour with the fabulous Miss Shelley Marie Mauss extraordinaire. None of us have ever had a professional photo shoot so we had no idea what to expect. But, we all had faith that Shelley would make it fun experience. It was a such a wonderful experience to watch her with the kids. To see how excited they were to have their picture taken by a professional. I just knew that deep inside they felt special. A priceless feeling for a child and a wonderful gift for parents. Their personality just burst with Shelley's direction. Emerald trying to steal the spotlight. Malachite trying to find some way to make a sillier face or crazier pose than the last. And yes, Malachite did indeed fall into the fountain during our photo shoot. He handled it like a trooper and kept on smiling. I have to admit, it was odd having someone watch you while you hug the person that you love. But, as we went on it felt natural for us. And that’s what is so great about Shelley. She has a way of making you feel at ease. For that little moment she is with you, you feel joy of all that life is. And, I am convince that she has superpowers to have the clouds break, rain stop, and the sun shine. The perfect light, perfect backdrop, perfect photographer for one of the most perfect days for this imperfect family. Although, I will argue that this picture makes our family look perfect. For a sneak peek of the engagement photos go to http://www.shelleymauss.blogspot.com/

P.S. - It took all of my willpower not to make any reference to my weight or double chin, short legs. Beware, my resistance is weaking....

Spending the Day with the Mother(s) of the Bride

Today was another great day in wedding planning. With my mom and adoptive mom in tow, we went to check out bridesmaids dresses. I have learned that going to a bridal shop on a Saturday is not a good idea. Especially, if you are going with Janee and Sherry who insist on doing the "bump" in every dress. It was difficult to enjoy the show (and let me tell you, it is a show) when you couldn't find a seat or move without bumping into someone or a baby stroller. However, we were successful in picking out a dress for my mom. The dress is colorful, youthful, and sassy. I can't wait to see her looking ever so amazing in her dress! Another special treat was having my "adoptive" mother join us for the day. I have known Renee Hall (Janee and Sherry's mom) for almost 11 years. Her daughters get their sassiness from her, so you can only imagine how fun she is. And, I won't mention how good she is at the game categories ;-) We ended the day with high tea at the Secret Garden Tea House in Sumner. A cozy, traditional Victorian tea room (built in 1984 according to Janee – aka 1890) with beautiful architecture and great staff. Two hours of endless scones, finger sandwiches, mini cheesecakes, exotic tea served in fine china, and a secret surprise…no better way to end a great day!

Find out more about the Secret Garden Tea House
http://www.sgtea.com/

Photographer - Shelley Marie Mauss

Every now and then you have the opportunity to meet someone who "rocks your socks." There are no words to describe the "uber fabulous" Shelley Marie Mauss. She is an amazingly talented natural light photographer. Using her favorite “Canny” she captures moments with such precise emotions that you feel present in them. Besides being an amazing photographer, Shelley is a woman that I whole-heartily admire. She is an amazing friend, advocate for the Catholic youth and cancer awareness - a true sister in Christ. She has taught me so much with her faith in the Lord and her faith in others. I don’t know how she manages to do it all but she does. When I grow up, I want to be more like Shelley Mauss. Once you meet her you will know what I mean.
Make sure to check her website and see my favorite photo (baby’s foot with parents’ wedding rings) I can't wait for the opportunity to reminisce my special day through her eyes. Thank you Shelley for capturing our day!

http://www.bludomain6.com/mauss/index2.php

Invitations are Ready!!

They are finally ready to print. Muchas gracias to Janee and Sherry for providing their input. It has been a fun and interesting process to get input and approval from 4 people. Who ever knew there was so many shades of red, different fonts, and monograms. Thankfully, we all have great taste which made the process easier!

The invitation is white with a pearl border adorned with a apple red ribbon. The invitation and monogram is in chopin script.

You can expect to receive your invitation sometime in the next few months.

Cantor - Candice Wolfe

I first met Candice while I was volunteering as a youth leader in at St Vincent Catholic Church. We instantly developed a fun and wild friendship. We have shared lots of laughs and a mutual love for musician Matt Maher, drinks with umbrellas in them, and the color black. I have great memories of our vacation trips to sunny Arizona. Only she can fully understand the joy of laying on a lounge chair by a wave pool in the hot sun with a pina coloda in one hand listening to Matt Maher live in concert. Good times! I am so excited that she has agreed to be the cantor at the wedding. I just love her rocker chick voice!

Musical Soloist - Amy

I love music and admire those that are musically gift. Sadly, I do not count myself among that group. But lucky for me, Amy is. I met Amy when I joined the "girls group" also known by some of our male friends as "estrogen militia." The girls group consist of 10 of the best Catholic girls you can find in the Puget Sound area. We travel from Bellingham down to Tacoma and as far east as Ellensburg. For the last 3 years, I have spent my time in fellowship and fun with these fantastic ladies. For me Amy always stood out for humility, compassion, and gift of song. Two years ago, Amy and I chaperoned a group of teenagers on trip to Europe and World Youth Day. During this trip, I cherished Amy's presence so much. It was such a blessing to be able to talk to her about our faith and have life-giving experiences of pure holiness while visiting the Vatican City, Scala Sancta (holy stairs), Assisi and attending a Papal Mass. Not to forget, climbing all the way up to the top of St. Peter's Basilica. I will forever feel connect to her. I asked Amy to sing the processional song, "Ave Maria". I know that I will be in tears at that moment. One reason for the pure joy that I will feel entering the sacrament of marriage. The second reason...Amy's voice. More often than not, I find myself in tears when I hear her sing. She sings with such passion and worship. I can't wait. Thank you, Amy!

Best Man - Mike Schalansky

Mike refuses to have his photo taken so I have resorted to a portrait. I have great skills, right? That's Mike with a Jack and Coke in one hand and a Harley Davidson cap on his head (yes, he does wear clothes) He is strong-willed, fiercely independent and loyal. Mike and Mark have been friends since they were both 8 years old. They both grew up in the same neighborhood and spent many years causing trouble. When I first met Mike, I didn't know what to think. Mike looks intimidating and tough. You never know what he is going to say or do and he likes it that way. Under the rough exterior is a guy with a great heart and has countless stories of Mark growing up. Mike cooks a mean prime rib and knows how to make this apple drinks that I just love so much! Oh, and I would fail if I forget to mention how great he is with Bailey (my dog). Bailey is a good judge of character and Mike is his favorite. Although, I don't know why since Mike is always playing rough and torturing him. That's Mike for you... you can't help but like him. Especially, when he cooperates and participates in wedding photos.

Best Man - Nate Bennet

Nate and Mark have been friends for over 10 years and I can see why! Nate is one of the nicest guys I have ever met. Polite, patient, and kind are just a few words to describe him. Nate is the kind of guy that you want your husband to be friends with. He has been with Mark through the bad and the ugly. He was a great support system to Mark and the kids when they needed him the most. Nate has made such an impact on the kids that Malachite decided to name his Build-a-Bear after him. Now that is love! And I know I would get in trouble if I forgot to mention that he is a great video game player, too!

Groomsmen - Bud Gilmore

When I asked Mark to start thinking about who he would like to have as groomsmen he instantly said, "Mike, Nate, Bud, and Tom." Bud and Mark have known each other over 10 years. Many of those years spent playing video games and talking about martial arts. I got to meet Bud for the first time at our engagement party. I was happily surprised on how friendly and geninue he was. He came in with a huge smile and had handshakes/hugs for everyone. I am excited to have him be a part of the wedding and I am looking forward to getting to know him better. Watch out ladies, he is single and ready to mingle.

Ring Bearer - Malachite Bonagofski

He says that he has the easiest job in the whole wedding. Although, he did ask me what would happen if he just "happened to, by mistake, kinda lost the rings." Having seen and heard many stories about losing the rings, I was well prepared for this scenario. Feeling a bit relieved to not have the actual rings he did wonder what the purpose was for him going down the aisle. When I explained it was for Emerald to know where to walk and stand, he seemed quite proud of himself. That's Malachite for you, always trying to please and do things right. He is like his dad in that area. Both of them perfectionists and both so good at loving those around them. Malachite is a special boy, sweet in nature and chatty (just like me). He has a kind heart and full of imagination. I can't wait to see who he becomes as he grows up. What a blessing to be a part of it! I am a very proud "mamos" (that's what he calls me)

Flower Girl - Emerald Bonagofski

What can I say about my future stepdaughter and flower girl? She is so amazing smart that it frightens me. She has a memory of elephant and will easily quote things you said to her months ago. Hence, why it took lots of bribes to get her to agree to this dress. Apparently, I told her that she could pick any dress she wanted. And what did she want? A mini-version of my wedding dress! Picking out a dress was one of my favorite moments of wedding planning. How much fun is it to have a lil' girl try on over 30 dresses and have her jump, twirl and curtsy in each and everyone. Having her rate the dress from a 1-10 was not very helpful when the categories she would rate them by were: twirl, jump and curtsy! Everyone at the store got a kick out of watching her dance Swan Lake around the store in each dress. After a few twirls and jumps, Emerald approved with this dress. Could it be that Janee (maid of honor and the sassiest girl ever - according to Emerald) and I were cheering for this one? It is a perfect match with the bridesmaids dresses and the lil' bow really captured Emerald's childlike beauty. Loved it! I can't wait to see her all dressed up with hair in curls and flowers in her hair dancing and twirling. Oh, and yes, she did manage to get me to say that she could wear lip gloss. And knowing her, she will keep me to my word.

Now For the Fun Stuff

Today was another great day of wedding activities. Mark and I had a blast using the scanning gun to zap all the awesome things that we need for our new house. I was surprised how easy it was to pick out plates, forks and other great stuff. We agreed on everything without much compromise. We are off to a good start. Only 225 days left!

The Experienced Bridesmaid - Angelica Vega

When deciding on my fourth bridesmaid it really did not take long to pick one. I wanted someone who had the same fun, outgoing personality as my bridal party. I wanted someone who could liven' things up, make us laugh and someone who wasn't afraid to make everyone dance! Immediately, I thought of my cousin Angelica, a.k.a Jelly. My cousin, Jelly and I grew up together in New York. I did not get to see her too often but I honestly remember the times we did get together. I remembered in Jelly that I felt a kindred spirit. She had such a similar fun, mischievous personality like I did. Both of us were the chubby baby girls in our family. Both of us loved playing Barbies, cabbage patch kids and making a general mess. While our sisters were perfect lil' ladies with wonderful manners, Jelly and I were the ones that had to be told to use a napkin! I loved our times so much. When Jelly and her family moved to Seattle for a short time, we had the chance to once again have fun! She is such a joy to everyone around her. She knows just how to make everyone feel welcomed and will have you rolling in no time. I know I will have to drag her off the dance floor when the time arrives. This girl is all about fun! This is why this girl has been in so many weddings. I can't wait to have her come back to Seattle and meet her husband.

Mission Accomplished - The Dress

I am very excited to announce I have finally found my wedding dress. I couldn't be any happier with my choice. It was the first dress I tried on that made me feel like a bride from one of those TV wedding shows. Not like my body was being swallowed by tulle or doubling as a safe shelter for a stow-away (see picture).

On this shopping trip, I was joined by Janee, Sherry, my mom and dad. It was awesome seeing my dad sitting in the viewing area when I walked out in my wedding dress. His nervous giggle and smile gave away his approval for my choice. It was a moment that I will always cherish.

A big thank you to my Sherry, Janee and my sister who joined me on the previous shopping trips. It is such a blessing to have such wonderful, supportive family participating in the wedding planning.

P.S. - the dress in the photo is DEFINITELY not the one

Bridesmaid Extraordinaire - Sherry Hall

Have you ever seen anyone so happy to be a bridesmaid? Sherry's first words when I asked her to be a part of the wedding party - "I get to go to all the tastings!" Sherry has done a great job keeping me organized as the official "wedding nazi" and "taste tester." She is the one to thank when you eat the yummy mashed potatoes served at the reception.

I met Sherry the same summer I met her sister, Janee (maid of honor.) It took the whole summer for her to convince me that they were indeed sisters. Sherry is the opposite of Janee and I which has made for some interesting times. She doesn't get in trouble but loves watching Janee and I get into it. It is so much fun making her blush, although as we grow older that is becoming harder to do.

She is the honorary designated driver, the one that thinks everyone should be sleeping by 10pm but volunteers to pick you up at 2am. She is also the one to kick our butts for not working out. It’s always good to have a friend like Sherry around.

I have admired Sherry's dedication to her son (my godson). It’s fun having another mom around to talk kid stuff. Couldn't imagine being a step-mom without her!

Oh, and did I tell you that she was a Coug! Enough said she is awesome.

Matron of Honor - Christina Ariza

My matron of honor is none other than my sister, Christina. My sister who is 4 years older than me but light years away in wisdom. Not only beautiful and graceful she has an amazing heart. She has taken care of me and my parents in so many ways. She has always been my second mother even when she doesn't want to. I firmly believe that I have made it this far because of her influence and guidance.

I love making her laugh. Most of the time it is because I said or did something widly inappropriate. No one can stop making her laugh once you got her started. Just looking at her and she will get started again. Of course, I take it upon myself to get her laughing again.

Everyone knows us as night and day. She taught me how to embrace and appreciate those differences. She taught me the importance of going for what you want rather than what others want for you. She taught me how to stand up when life has kicked you down. She has taught me what it means to be a woman of strength, courage and faith.

I love you Chris...even if you are skinny. And, I forgive you for giving me a bloody nose when I was 12. I guess that was pay back from when I pushed you off the bed and knocked the wind out of you. I really thought you were dead. Mom and Dad would have been mad and you wouldn't have been there to protect me. Glad you pull through ;-)

Maid of Honor - Janee "Jay-Nay-Nay" Hall

Since I am so special and so loved...I needed to have not one but two! Or maybe it's because I am too much to handle for one person! Either way, I am such a blessed girl to have so many wonderful female role models. I come from a family full of them and I make it a point to surround myself with friends that exhibit the same traits. I have chosen one of my best friends to fill the role of maid of honor. Janee, my friend of over 10 years is one of the craziest people that I know. I don't even know how to begin to describe her, so here is my attempt. She is my friend, sister, advisor, instigator - just to name a few of her roles. Truth be told, that girl knows too many stories about me. And they aren't all pretty! Janee and I first met when I was a senior in high school. We both worked at the YMCA summer camp where her nickname was "Jay-Nay-Nay" and I was "Lil-Lulu." We were assigned all the troublemaker kids because we knew how best to work with them. Apparently, we related with these kids all too well. We survived the summer and remained friends as we attended different colleges. That summer Janee finally came to her senses and transferred to WSU to be closer to her dear friend. Go Cougs!! We spent the summer studying and going to the local pub to play Scrabble. For the next few years, we went through many boyfriends, jobs, break-ups, moves, etc. We remained close friends while I was living in Pittsburgh and Chicago - not an easy task! But that shows you the type of person that Janee is - dependable, loyal, trusting and fun. I love her to death and she will always be my other sister. And of course, if I didn't say it she would...."Mark is exactly like Janee and that is why I love him so much." Thus, I really am marrying my best friend.

Luau Engagement Party

Thank you to my two bestest friends ever! Sherry and Janee did a great job organizing, cooking, making party invitations and hosting our engagement party. We had a great time spending time with our family and friends. Here are some snapshots of our night and morning (party ended at 3:30am)

Wedding Slideshow

St. Vincent de Paul

It will be of no surprise to many that we have chosen to seal our marriage vows at St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Federal Way, WA. My home parish were I have spent close to 4 years of Mass, LifeTeen youth nights, planning sessions and youth retreats. This parish has become a second home to many including myself and it has always been great to be a part of this congregation of people. After attending many baptisms, communions, confirmations, weddings and funerals here, it will finally be my turn. For marriage, that is!!

Spirit of Washington Event Center

We have finally made our first official decision. The reception site for our marriage celebration will be at the Spirit of Washington Event Center located at 233 Burnett Ave. South in the heart of downtown Renton, WA. This brand new 10,000-square-foot building will be the ideal location for a delicious dinner and lots of dancing! Can't wait to see it all decorate for our special event. A big thank you for my mom, sister, Janee and Sherry for giving me their seal of approval. And for the sacrifice of attending every food tasting. Now you know who to talk to if you don't like the food!

Announcing the Bridal Party!!

Thank you to all our friends and family for being a part of this special day. At this most special time as we prepare for our marriage and new life begin, we're thankful to have you by our side.

Maid of Honor
Christina Ariza, sister

Maid of Honor
Janee Hall, best friend

Bridesmaids
Sherry Hall, best friend
Angelica "Jelly" Vega, cousin

Flower girl
Emerald Bonagofski, stepdaughter

Best Man
Nate Bennett, childhood friend

Best Man
Mike Schalansky, childhood friend

Groomsman
David “Bud” Gilmore, childhood friend
Tom Dunn, childhood friend

Ring Bearer
Malachite Bonagofski, son

335 Days Left....The Dress

Long or short, ruffles or sleek, sleeves or strapless, long train or short train...the choices are endless! How could I have ever known that dress shopping could be so complicated?

Two of my best friend decided it was time that I start looking for a dress. Thanks to these two drill sergeant girls, I will stay on schedule with all the wedding tasks.

This weekend, we went to David’s Bridal where we were practically kicked out the door. Apparently, you need to have an appointment to look at dresses. Who knew? Luckily, we found a great bridal shop in Tacoma that appreciates our spontaneous nature. With the help of Tannase, the bridal consultant, we tried on some incredible dresses. My favorite was only $1,400. That's about $200 hr or $3.34 a minute. Pocket change for the dress that I will wear on the "best day of my life." Yeah, right!

So the search continues…

5 Lessons Learned:

1. Tulle, stay away from it unless you are going for the snowball look.

2. Be ready to laugh at yourself, otherwise you will be the only one not laughing!

3. It's normal for wedding dresses to weigh 7-10 lbs. Apparently, a man must have designed all these dresses.

4. Corsets that make me 2 sizes smaller...now, that's what I am talking about!

5. Bring some great friends with you to share this once in a lifetime experience.

WE'RE ENGAGED!!!

It's official. On Saturday, May 6th at the Rose Garden/Shakespeare Garden in Stanley Park (Vancouver, Canada), Mark got on his knee to propose. Although it was expected, it was still unexpected! We took a walk through the pergola to view the lush green gardens full of blossoming roses and spring flowers. The lawn had an impressive flower shaped arrow that pointed to a park bench where Mark asked me to sit for a photograph. Cleverly, Mark took the picture and the opportunity of being on his knee to ask me to marry him. We followed the proposal with dinner at the Sequoia Grill at the Teahouse. It was the most amazing meal ever! Thank you for visiting our wedding website. We hope you will visit this website again to share this wonderful experience with us.

Sequoia Grill at the Teahouse - http://www.vancouverdine.com/sgrill/home.html
Stanley Park - http://www.city.vancouver.bc.ca/Parks/parks/stanley/#gardens