Tiffany "Mary"

I forgot to write back to you all about what Saint name I chose!  I chose Mary (Theotokos), "Joy to All Who Suffer". Mary is also a special name to the Gantus family as both Brandon's grandmother (Maryann) and sister (Mariana) bear the saint name. The chrismation (similar to a confirmation) was a wonderful day - thank you to Father George, Deena, and Mr. & Mrs. Gantus!

Photo of Fairmont standard room

Fun fact of the day: The Fairmont San Francisco standard king room is nice and big because when it was first built everyone needed room for their trunks to be stored!  We are excited to have this as our feature hotel not only because it is where the reception is held, but also because it is a traditional icon of SF!

Make sure to book your rooms early because they release wedding holds in mid-September. :)

At least someone is practicing!

I should probably take some lessons from our adorable flower girl who apparently has been practicing over and over again for the big day!  Her precious mom sent over a sneak peak today....I already feel blessed with the talent we chose. :)

http://sharing.theflip.com/session/bcb90984134531f0ff5396092f5d283e/video/15557087

Save the Date videos...now that's one way to do it!

With the advancement of technology it is so wonderful to see people get creative with their wedding ideas. This save the date video has to be the most original I've seen!  Its about 3 minutes...the best part is toward the end. We opted for a more traditional card sent to our out-of-town guests, but I love the video idea too!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Db8ydeWFQE&feature=player_embedded

Are you named after a Saint?

I want to share with you some exciting news. After months of prayer, studying and reflection, I've decided to become an Orthodox Christian this Sunday.Over the past fourteen months, I've met often with our priest, Father George, to answer many questions...and boy do I have many!! I think even Brandon (a "cradle" Orthodox) has learned a thing or two :)  Both our families have been a tremendous support. Brandon's parents have seen me through it all, from my first Orthodox Easter to "retreating" to the annual Church convention! These experiences of ancient Christian faith have given me fresh perspective on my journey with Christ. This is a slow journey, filled with wonder and delight...and it's only the beginning!

 Mr. and Mrs. Gantus have graciously agreed to be my Sponsors, and I will be also choosing a Saints name in the coming days which represents someone whose intercessions uphold my faith and spiritual efforts. I have had so many wonderful suggestions of Saints names - I almost can't believe it!  So...here are the current suggestions - anyone have a vote?

Saint Lucia (mom)
Saint Theophano (Curt, he actually researched that this is where the name "Tiffany" is from!)
St. Francis (Laura, Susan)
St. Mary (Heather)
St. Ann (Deena)
St. Theresa of Avila (Kresten)
St. Sophia (I happen to like this one!)
St. Sylvia (Lindsay)
St. Kyra, St. Barbara, St. Anastasia, St. Philothea (Brandon)
And last but not least....St. Nick! This was the sweetest one of all, from my step-dad, John, he says:
"This could be your mother! I vote for her! St.Nick(a)la.  Not only does your mom pray for you, but she also sleeps with the homeless(last night) and prays for them(they need it). And she takes food to the sick; brings joy to the down hearted; I could go on, but she thinks I go on to much."

Their love for each other continues to amaze me each day!! He also suggests perhaps I pick more then one or pick a new Saint to interceed every year.  How cool is that. They really do have amazing stories...

Female saints:
http://www.antiochian.org/AW-WomenSaints

Closet-Studio anniversary dinner!

Last night we had an appointment to see our 2nd photographer option. Despite Queen Carol's plea that we both be at all appointments, the Prince had to cancel last minute. Since the photographer's studio was around the corner from my old apartment on 9th avenue, I took myself out on a date to a sushi place in the 'hood, Bistro Chen. I've taken many of you there over the years, so it has a special place in my heart. 

Sitting there alone, I realized that it is almost two years to the day that I signed my lease for my closet-studio on Toledo Way. At that time, my amazing roommate was getting married and I was hopeful for what my own future may bring (despite moving into the tiniest craziest little studio!)  Now, two years later, I sit here with a whole new life ahead of me. I am so blessed by wonderful family and friends, but I would have never imagined I would meet someone NEW (my Prince) who knows me and loves me just for who I am.  Most of you know, this has been a big surprise so thank you for coming on this journey with me, and happy anniversary!

Hotel options

As we are  sending our travel information to out-of-town guests, we have been busy finalizing the details of the weekend. My biggest concern with this has been...where will everyone stay?  Will people generally want to stay at the same hotel as the reception (Fairmont). Or, in this economy, is it especially important to give at least one option of a "budget" priced hotel?  We have looked and looked and all hotels nearby the Fairmont are about the same price (we negotiated a rate of $189/night which I think is pretty good for Nob Hill).  But, all decent Union Square hotels are about the same price. Ugh!  Do you have any suggestions for me - should we just leave it up to the travelers to find something in their price range?  Or look far outside the surrounding area for a better budget option? Help!