I can’t be the only one to wonder, what the heck happened these past 2 years? Like, one minute I’m sitting at my work desk answering phone calls, the next minute our city goes into lockdown. From what I recall, I happily packed up my things to take home, thinking we just landed an awesome 2 week March break. Then next thing you know – cue actual world pandemic and fast forward 2 years.
Like, whaaat?
It’s been pretty much surreal. I don’t need to reiterate, as majority of us probably experienced the same thing, but all I remember was going in and out of multiple lockdowns, learning to work from home, binging Tiger King, tie dying, trying IG coffee trends, TikTok hacks and accumulating an amazing wardrobe of cozy sets and athletic sweats.
Matching set: Aritzia
Now, let’s catch up.
2020? Manageable.
As mentioned above, it was all tie dye, sweats and dalgona coffees.
2021 on the other hand? A nightmare.
Ok I’m being dramatic. Or, maybe not. But it definitely wasn’t the best of years.
Within a year, I had worked 3 different positions in the same company, essentially landing the ‘dream job’ that, I guess, I had been working towards my whole career with them. While I am grateful for the experience, it was challenging to say the least. The restructuring of departments and various positions basically gave me a workload that previously would have been a 6 person job.
Many sleepless nights. Many bathroom cry breaks. These became weekly rituals.
I was officially burnt out and running on empty.
Then once I finally found myself in the groove of things, they let me go.
📷: Pinterest
With all the changes that happened/were happening within the company it was expected. I was prepared, but it was still surreal to hear those words.
They say everyone should get fired at least once in their life. That it builds character and… (insert whatever quote here about life lessons and the universe). At least for my sanity, it wasn’t because of my performance or incompetency. I know I’m super creative and have a damn good work ethic. And no one can take that from me.
📷: Pinterest
What else?
Well, not only was I grieving the loss of my job, I was also grieving the loss of my bestie.
Oh yes, within days of each other I found myself jobless andpetless.
When it rains, it pours. Right?
Last year was a pretty rough year for my little furry friend. We enjoyed a nice last summer together, but sadly I had to say goodbye after 13 wonderful, floofy years. As stressful as it was learning a new position while working from home, I am super appreciative for the fact that I was home and was able to spend those extra moments with her. Screw coffee breaks when you have pet the floof breaks.
Those were my favourite.
Anyways, I’ve been a little lost since then. It’s like a part of my identity is gone, but I’m trying to navigate what my next chapter should be. Or, even how to start it for that matter. It’s taking a little longer than expected, but as they say, Rome wasn’t built in a day.
In the meantime…
Hello again. Sorry for ghosting you for 2 years, but I’m hoping we can pick up where we left off. There’s so much to say… and so many shopping goodies to share 😉
Until next time, please enjoy some of my favourite floof pics.
It’s an add to cart kind of day… and then let it sit there and not checkout.
Because it’s dangerous to shop while bored.
And even more so dangerous to shop while in quarantine.
These are desperate times people.
The outpouring of subscribed emails floods my inbox… We’re sorry our retail stores are closed, but we’re offering free shipping no minimum. We’re offering 20% off your purchase. We’re offering 50% off everything, plus free shipping.
Must. Say. No.
So, how do you refrain from unnecessary shopping?
Netflix.
So I present to you my list of top 5 shows I recommend or have binged since being in quarantine. Plus, some honourable mentions.
Enjoy!
Binge Worthy Netflix
1. Short Drama Series
Source: Pinterest
Binge Worthy: YOU
If you’re not up to date with any popular Netflix series, then now is a good time to catch up.
And it’s time to start You.
He’s creepy. He’s charming. He’s a stalker. He loves hard. Aaaaaand *stop reading the rest of this sentence if you don’t want spoilers and seriously know nothing about this show* … occasionally kills people.
In other words, great boyfriend material. The story will get you frustrated at some points, but you’ll want to keep watching to see what happens!
Binge Worthy Mention: Good Girls
This is another show I enjoy watching that you can catch on Netflix. And I say short drama series, because both this and You only have 2 seasons, so it’s an easy binge.
Good Girls is about soccer moms turned criminals. They need money fast and come across a world of money laundering and crime and while dealing with their own individual life problems.
My favourite part is the guy with the neck tattoos. Oh, you’ll see. Shhh, don’t tell bae!
2. Foreign Dramas
Source: Pinterest
Binge Worthy: MONEY HEIST (La Casa De Papel)
I can probably do a whole other list on this – note to self for future – but I personally enjoy watching foreign movies and shows because you’ll come across some surprising gems. And usually I would rave about Narcos, but after watching Narcos Mexico: Season 2 on and off, I was left feeling unsatisfied… which is never a good thing – am I right, ladies? 😉
Definitely not binge worthy.
Then… *cue dramatic music* In walks Money Heist: Part 4, just in time to save this quarantine.
This show has basically everything you need for an amazing series. If you like stories about heists, a group of lost souls turned great friends and becoming heroes of the people, then I definitely recommend. Each episode unveils new problems and plot twists that had me on edge the entire time. I’m a pretty fast reader so I enjoyed watching in Spanish with subtitles. I feel you get a better sense of the emotions and suspense the characters and story brings.
And I totally hate that I have to wait for the next part to come out!
Binge Worthy Mention: ELITE
Another great Spanish show. You forget these characters are still in high school because this show has everything. It’s full of murder, love, sex, drugs, family problems and high school drama.
Totally not relatable to my personal high school experience (or anyone’s experience I hope), but definitely worth watching!
And if you like a little boujee-ness, you may appreciate some of the accessories you’ll find on the rich bitches. Hi, Elite production? If you’re having a set sale, please invite me.
3. Insane Documentaries
Source: Pinterest
Binge Worthy: TIGER KING
Okay… I have no words for this one.
There’s no real reason, or argument, as to why you should watch this documentary, other than you just need to. And as someone suggested, you just have to take it and soak it all in.
I was ready to quit after the first episode. All you had was big cats, Joe Exotic and Carole Baskin. And that was it.
The first few episodes actually made no sense to me. There was no plot. I had no idea where the story was going or why I was watching. They just introduced viewers to big cats, their owners and different parks.
Then if you’re patient enough, the story comes out. And it becomes dark and twisted really fast.
And really sad.
For the people? Yes, but more so the animals.
Though, now you can join the debate of Carole Baskin. Did she do it?
Binge Worthy Mention: Surviving R. Kelly
Watch this only if you have a strong stomach. It’s not graphic or gruesome, but the stories and encounters the women describe are quite disturbing. And I’m only 2 episodes in!
This makes you see things in a whole different light. It makes you admire their bravery for telling their story. And it makes you listen to those songs with a different ear and understanding of the truth behind it.
4. Guilty Pleasure Reality Shows
Source: Pinterest
Binge Worthy: LOVE IS BLIND
My apologies in advance, but this show is a must see and I like to take credit for introducing it to a few people.
It’s soooo cringe, that it’s good. It’s basically the Bachelor on speed.
If you enjoy dating shows, then give it a watch. These people date in pods behind walls. They propose behind walls. Get engaged behind walls. All without seeing what the other person looks like. Then they meet, get thrown on their first trip together, live together, meet the in-laws and possibly get married.
Oh, and it’s all within the time span of a month! I know, right?
Binge Worthy Mention: Too Hot To Handle
This is the Bachelor in Paradise on speed without sex. Sort of.
Contestants, from all over the world, are on this island thinking they’re there to meet other singles, party and hopefully not catch any STDs.
Then we soon find out they were chosen because of their promiscuous ways and lack of caring to make deeper connections. So cue imitation Alexa, aka Lana, who tells them they can win $100,000, but they’re not allowed to do anything dirty with each other. Any breach will cause a loss in the pot.
And cue reality TV drama.
5. Feel Good Nostalgic Sitcoms
Source: Pinterest
Binge Worthy: FRIENDS
Ending on a feel good, happy note. This is obviously a classic. I hadn’t watched the series in its entirety when it originally aired, but I knew the storyline and episodes well from reruns.
So when bae mentioned that he never watched Friends, it was only right that we start. And I’m glad we did!
Even though, I knew all the characters and their relationships, it was nice to see the episodes in chronological order and make complete sense.
Plus, it was a bonus to watch bae see everything for the first time and his reactions to all the Ross & Rachel drama. Were they on a break?
Binge Worthy Mention: The Office
This was another show I never watched while it aired. And tbh, it took a few seasons to actually get into the series and the characters, but I’m happy I stuck it out.
It’s probably one of the funniest shows I’ve seen. All the awkwardness and sarcasm is what makes the show and it’s characters great.
Plus, all the inside jokes it has created between bae and I.
Parkour!
Source: Pinterest
Now all the Office memes I’ve seen in the past years finally make sense to me.
And that’s it!
I hope you enjoyed my list.
Let me know if you’ve watched any and what your faves are. Or, if you have any recommendations yourself!
In all seriousness, I hope everyone is keeping safe. And please be cautious and considerate of others during these crazy times.
xo
Stephanie
Subscribe to Luxe & Loaded to stay updated with my latest posts!
For more pictures, follow me on Instagram @s_pasquali!
I haven’t written a new post in months. I didn’t get to my annual ‘New year, New goals’ post. And I missed my 3rd year blogiversary!
I know, how could I?Ok let’s pretend I celebrated… *And cue cute, disco background photo of me below* 😉
There have been an interesting turn of events, to say the least, in the past months and I’ve just been feeling bleh.
A new temporary, opportunity came up at work. And because of that, all my creative energy has been geared towards something else. And I’ve been drained when I come home. And I just want to be lazy on the weekends.
Is this really the 9-5 life? I don’t know how people keep up. Especially with no windows in the work environment. Should be illegal.
Then of course Black Friday and the Holidays come around and that’s always a busy time in retail. And just when I thought I could breathe come January, my contract at work is up in the air and I got sick with the flu.
I never get sick with the flu! I can handle a cold, but this flu hit hard and bae got it too, so for the second week of 2020 we were feverish and cold sweating it up in bed – yuck!
Next thing you know, I’m stuck with a stupid, dry cough and January has flown by and there are eleven months left to 2020. Eleven! I haven’t even made my vision board!
So what are we gonna do?
We are going to hustle.
I’m trying to do this for realsies this time where I focus on me. What’s best for me. And I’m not going to worry about explaining or apologizing for the decisions I make that better my life for me.
📷 taken at Shiseido’s #ShareBeautyon7 campaign at Hudson’s Bay on Queen.
I think the reoccurring theme is me here, and not to be selfish, but I think I’ve put myself on the back burner long enough. And I’m bored of listening to other people’s goals and plans for me because the only person that knows what I want is… you guessed it… my chinchilla – jk, it’s obviously me.
That being said. I’m going to put more effort into my blog posts. I’ve seen a major spike in views last year, thanks to a UK company with the same name – hello to my UK friends! I know you may be coming for another reason, but I hope you stay for me 🙂
So with more views, I need more content. More importantly, more consistency. I need to get my creative juices flowing once again because L&L is in its third year! We’re in a fully committed relationship now.
Plus, third time’s a charm, right?
Source: Pinterest
Thus, to tie in my regular January posts,
Happy New Year & Happy 3rd Year Blogiversary!
Thanks for sticking around.
If you’re new, welcome to Luxe & Loaded.
I’ll be writing soon.
xo
Stephanie
Subscribe to Luxe & Loaded to stay updated with my latest posts!
For more pictures, follow me on Instagram @s_pasquali!
I had heard about this local, family run lavender farm through the magic of Instagram – naturally. And the more I saw, the more I wanted to go.
Yes, FYI – I do like to venture out to new places besides the usual shopping malls and outlets.
So I was pleasantly surprised when I had received my latest Influenster box that contained lavender sample products and a free entry ticket to Terre Bleu 🤗
Other contents included a mini essential oil roller, full size lip balm, mini lavender cookies and mini dried lavender.
Now I must admit, I was never truly a fan of lavender. I always associated it with soapy bubble baths and pretty much just smelling like an old lady.
So maybe the adult in me is more open minded and appreciative of this scent, because I actually don’t mind it… when it’s ever so slightly infused.
Like lavender cookies? – Bleh! was my initial thought. Though honestly speaking, they actually were my favourite item in the box!
The lip balm was also surprising. I was expecting it to be dry and waxy, but it’s the total opposite. Very moisturizing and also has a hint of mint which leaves this tingle on your lips that I absolutely love. Not everyone is a fan of mint, but that’s my go-to ‘flavour’ for lip balms and chapsticks.
I’m not an essential oil roller kind of person, but I can see why people like it. Very calming and soothing, though I don’t feel the product lasts much. Perhaps because it was a mini sample? Not sure, but for something like this I’d rather go to Saje and pick from a selection of scents that my nose is more attracted to.
And the dried lavender is just cute to add to your drawers. Or, I’d even add it to my beauty display since mine is mini… but my countertops are never clean enough to enjoy it, so in the drawers it is!
Now, Terre Bleu itself isn’t freakishly far from where we live, but it’s definitely more than a 30min drive. So I do appreciate the free entry ticket they sent. Gave bae more of an incentive to agree to my social outing request.
Though, behind the scenes – this didn’t work out the greatest the first time we went!
I wanted to go for my birthday, but by the time we got there and paid, it started pouring!
We paid entry… and then it rained 😦
I didn’t think to check the weather as I figured that Milton wasn’t far enough to have a different forecast than Toronto, but low and behold – Mother Nature decided otherwise.
Lesson learned.
So attempt number 2 – we made sure to go earlier and confirmed the weather – sunshine ☀️
You definitely need at least 2 hours to enjoy this place. It’s has 2 main sections for the lavender fields. And depending on how busy, the wait for the cute yellow door can take some time. Plus the gift shop – very small, but if you’re indecisive like me you’ll be in there for a while.
Not to mention, taking a snack break with their lavender infused ice cream and lemonade!.. *whispers* kinda pricey, but worth a taste!
Definitely super delish though.
Would I go again? Yeah probably. It’s a cute farm, but I’d go on a weekday, first thing in the morning so there’s less people.
And note to self: do not wear an off the shoulder shirt if you’re under the sun for more than 1hr. Worse tan lines ever!
Have you been to Terre Bleu? Let me know in the comments!
Now check out some other cute pics from my visit!
xo
Stephanie
“Walk through the door, your worries behind you, your joys are ahead.”
Dress: Zara Shoes: Superga Purse: Givenchy
*Disclaimer: All opinions are my own.I received these products complimentary from Influenster Canada and Terre Bleu for testing and review purposes. This is not a sponsored post.
Subscribe to Luxe & Loaded to stay updated with my latest posts!
For more pictures, follow me on Instagram @s_pasquali!
I’ve said it before – sales will forever be the death of my wallet.
Yes, I technically am the sole culprit, but retailer emails are definitely the accessory!
Though, it’s worth for my inbox to be flooded with subscriptions because sometimes they offer such great deal for insiders! – I just don’t need triple daily reminders *ahem* Groupon.
Left to Right: Limoncello, Cactus Blossom, Watermelon Lemonade & Midnight Blue Citrus
Based on the feature, you’re all probably expecting this to be a candle haul, but it’s not. And I surprisingly don’t own any B&BW candles. I know everyone goes nuts over their 3 wick candle sales, but I’ve had my eye on something else.
Recently, I’ve been in search of a new freshening room smell. My only scent had been bae’s old Eucalyptus Mint from Bath & Body Works.
And I officially can’t stand it.
So I made my way over to B&BW in the mall and spent ten minutes spraying all their fun scents in the air. Then I realized you can pretty much smell the cap without creating fragrance overload, but also… they have fragrance cards – oopsies!
Anywhos, they only sell the standard mini size now for $8 (1.5 oz). Which I thought was reasonable to try. So I narrowed it down to 2 – and just before I purchased it I said to myself,
‘I bet these are going to go on sale soon’
And 2 weeks later they did. For $3.50. So I went back.
I bought more of course!
They have so many options to choose from that are nice for all year round, but I wanted especially for Spring/Summer. I find them great to add just a little spritz of fresh aroma to any room when it needs a pick me up – hello, stale winter air anyone?
My faves at the moment are Cactus Bloom and Midnight Blue Citrus.
And honourable mention goes to Watermelon Lemonade… mmmm so yum.
I even got one called Happiness. It’s a more masculine scent for bae, that he can keep in his car.
What are your favourite sprays? Did any of you catch the sale? Let me know in the comments below!
But first, check out all my new scents!
xo Stephanie
Watermelon Lemonade & Midnight Blue Citrus
Limoncello & Aloha Kiwi Passionfruit
Aromatherapy: Happiness
Midnight Blue Citrus & Endless Weekend
Bath & Body Works – Concentrated Room Spray Limoncello Cactus Blossom Watermelon Lemonade Midnight Blue Citrus Aloha Kiwi Passionfruit Endless Weekend Aromatherapy: Happiness
Original Retail Price: $8 + tax each Sale Price: $3.50 + tax each Savings: $5.08 each
Subscribe to Luxe & Loaded to stay updated with my latest posts! For more pictures, follow me on Instagram @s_pasquali!
This past week marked my second year since Luxe & Loaded went live!
So…
Happy Blogiversary to me! 🎉
Luxe & Loaded 2 Year Blogiversary Shot + Edit: Me 🙂 | Music: bensoundsCookie Monster: Kaws x Sesame Street | Sign: My Cinemalightbox T-shirt: Barbie x Missguided
A two year commitment is a lot in a relationship. Could be make or break point for some. A big milestone. The deciding factor year to whether something is magical and turning into real love. Or, realizing you’ve developed different interests and don’t love it as much as you did in the beginning.
For me, it’s the first part.
I’m super excited about this blog and I can’t wait to continue to try new things and watch it flourish!
I took some time to read my 1st year post and see what goals I had set for myself to accomplish for this blog. And let me tell you, I pretty much accomplished none of them.
Yes. I suck.
It’s not that they were hard goals or tasks I had set for Luxe & Loaded. Turns out 2018 was a very draining year and I was not prepared to balance work, life, wedding and blog.
Something had to give.
I wanted to write more blog posts than I did the year before. I wanted to introduce more videos to my posts and Instagram. I wanted to start a Youtube channel. I even had plans to do a whole wedding series!
It started out that way… but then I slacked and none of that happened.
Though, surprisingly my numbers were up!
Even with less posts, I actually got slightly more views and visitors than I had the previous year – woo hoo!
And that goes to show me I’m headed in the right direction with L&L. So I’m allowing myself a do-over for my blog goals – No shame.
So once again – Let’s get it done!
What’s gonna be different this year? For one, I don’t have a wedding to plan in another country. Secondly, I don’t have a wedding to plan in another country – yes I said that twice because you don’t know until you do it! And I had no professional help, but I digress. Thirdly, I’m being selfish and putting myself first this year… scratch that.
I’m putting my creative self first.
I miss creative Steph. For a while, I lost touch with that aspect of me. So I’m going to make an effort to pay more attention to that side of me. Plus, I have to be, because I’m broke af this year so not as many shopping hauls or travels – womp womp.
Source: Pinterest
Though I’m feeling good about blogging in 2019.
It’s all about positive energy, perseverance and of course, having fun creating.
Once again, as they say on the Bachelor – we’re going to go on this an amazing journey together. And I can’t wait to spend another year with you!
xo Stephanie
Cookie Monster: Uniqlo My Cinemalightbox: Indigo Missguided T-shirt: Hudson’s Bay
Subscribe to Luxe & Loaded to stay updated with my latest posts! For more pictures, follow me on Instagram @s_pasquali!
2018 has definitely been a whirlwind – to say the least!
There has been a lot of highs and lows.
Lots of lows.
For starters, I’ve officially realized I’m stuck at a dead end job because there seems to be personal roadblocks in helping me grow. And thus, I’ve also experienced many anxiety and panic attacks.
Though I can happily say, one major high – I got married!
Which in turn was a major contribution to my many anxiety and panic attacks…but totes worth it!
Future posts to come on my whole wedding experience however…
I am now currently broke af.
Like AF for realsies people!
And so how am I supposed to live my best Luxe & Loaded life when I gots no moneys?
I’ll figure it out.
Once again, I am going in to this year head strong. Same as last year’s plan but f*ck the confidence this time! It’s gonna be more of an I kick ass at life attitude.
Because I deserve to be the best me. And I deserve to attain my greatest goals. And no one can tell me otherwise. #GIRLPOWER
For some it’s the holly, jolliest of months. The most wonderful time of the year. Magic is in the air. The Hallmark feel good movies are on – you should be well onto your 20th one by now. And every night is spent by the fireplace, snugged under a blanket. You’re with your loved one, sipping hot cocoa waiting for St. Nick to come.
And then there’s the reality for the rest of us.
Where it’s pretty much the worst season of all.
You want to develop a loathe for the holidays? Then work in retail for December. The once a year shoppers come out and really make you question humanity sometimes. That could be a whole other post on its own…
But enough about that!
We’re here to talk about stress relief for the holiday season.
So here are some ways you can beat the stress, but not really… because this is pretty much me showing you some goodies I got at Saje Natural Wellness.
Now let’s get started!
Body Mists
Refresh (Energizing Mist) I’m not much of a morning person. So I like the idea of this body mist since it can be a complete drag getting up early and ready for work sometimes – especially in the cold months where the mornings are hella dark!
This mist can especially come in handy the morning after your work Holiday Party. Maybe you had one too many tequilas with your coworker Jan and aren’t feeling so hot the next morning. Or, maybe you could use a spritz because you’re working overtime and are gonna need some positive vibes to take on all the nasty clients or customers.
I got Refresh as a little pick me up to get myself in a positive mood before I head out the door. One spritz on my face, the cool mist awakens my senses and I’m ready to go.
And it’s not overpowering like when you accidentally spray perfume on your face. It’s just a light scent to give you that quick boost of energy to take on the day.
Refresh – Energizing Mist
Unwind (Anti-Stress Mist) This body mist I got for the total opposite reason. After coming home from a busy day – whether it be work, running errands or just facing the crowds or people while you Christmas shop – I need a little quiet time to help my mind relax before I carry on what I need to do at home.
So I got Unwind to help me do exactly that – unwind.
I’m not usually one for lavender, but I know it’s a recommended scent when it comes to relaxing.
And this mist gives me just that hint of lavender I need to shut out the world and slow my mind.
A one-two spritz and a 10 second count as I close my eyes, helps me to forget about all the negative Nancys I may have come across during my shift.
As they say, keep calm and carry on.
Unwind – Anti-Stress Mist
Breath Freshener
Kiss Mist (Zesty Breath Freshener) With the holidays in full swing, almost anything can trigger stress. Even the littlest things like having a tuna sandwich for lunch and then having a one-on-one meeting with your boss. Or, maybe Carl borrowed your favourite pen without your permission and next thing you know, you’re yelling at him after eating a herb and garlic bagel spread – Dammit Carl!
Whatever the case may be, this a very social season and you may find yourself more often than not, getting a little up close and personal with coworkers, clients and customers.
And especially during this time of year, the surprise luncheons and delectable treats can find their ways into your mouth. So, to save myself from unsuspecting stank breath as I face customers, I thought this Kiss Mist would come in handy.
It’s small enough to fit in my purse, so when I find myself munching on snacks throughout the day I need not worry!
This mix of mint and fennel are a definite refresher – Bye bye tuna breath! So long garlic whore!
Kiss Mist – Zesty Breath Freshener
Diffuser Blend Collection
Peaceful I’ve gotten used to having a diffuser in the bedroom due to bae’s seasonal allergies. We’ve used a few different blends, but wanted to try Peaceful to stay zen as we sleep – and so far we’re pretty happy with 3/4 the scents. Yoga is delish!
Saje has a few blend collection options, but just the names alone convinced us to choose this kit.
I didn’t find the benefit in having a diffuser for myself, since I’m not really prone to congestion like bae is, but I’m all about aromatherapy.
And having a pleasant aroma while your rest is a huge stress relief for me. It just triggers my mind to relax.
Honestly speaking though, I was excited to try Gratitude. And upon first use it was lovely… but then it wasn’t. Maybe we just needed to clean the diffuser out thoroughly, but neither of us was a big fan.
I’ve only recently starting getting more and more into Saje products after bae got his diffuser.
It’s understandable that for first timers, the store can be a little overwhelming with scents, but have an idea of what you’re looking for or what aspect of your body needs attention. That will help narrow down your search.
Plus, it’s all about testing your nose. Trust me.
There are so many names and combinations of scents, but your nose will tell you what you need.
So if you’re looking for something to help calm your stress, but in all honesty you think it absolutely stinks… then it’s not for you! Because if you’re looking to keep calm, but you’re spraying mist or rolling oil on yourself that you think smells completely atrocious, then it will have the opposite effect.
What are some of your ways to destress during the Holidays? Are you a fan of Saje products too?
Hope these tips helped! If not… then I hope you enjoyed looking at the goodies that I got!
xo Stephanie
Subscribe to Luxe & Loaded to stay updated with my latest posts! For more pictures, follow me on Instagram @s_pasquali!
Not because I want to, but that’s just how I feel after trying to calculate a budget for this wedding. Because it seems to have mysteriously doubled overnight without my permission.
And yes, it was our decision to have a destination ceremony and reception. And yes, it was ultimately our decision to invite 100 people – this is still debatable though because parental influence plays a huge roll on the family invite list.
And yes, there are many other things that, in the end, are our decision.
That doesn’t change the fact that I want to spontaneously combust.
I’m not having a bridezilla moment…
I’m just having a ‘life crisis, I’m broke ass’ moment.
And it’s really stressful. Especially when you’re trying to crunch numbers and you think you’re doing a decent job at saving and budgeting, but then more things pop up that you forgot to consider. Like the church donation. Or, photo permits. Or, transportation. Or, even something as simple as a guest book and seating chart.
Every little thing costs.
And then on top of that, for bae and me, every other little thing needs to be converted to Euros.
And the Euro sucks right now. Major suckage.
Wallet: Valentino
Is this something we should have really planned for? Yes.
Could we have started saving for this a long time ago? Like even before our engagement? Yes.
Are there areas we can cut costs? Most definitely, yes.
But a lot of things in life that happen are unforeseen.
Sometimes you just really aren’t prepared.
Period.
Kind of like studying for an exam. Whether you’ve studied a full week, or crammed the night before, you can still walk into that exam room, read the first question and your mind just goes blank. And no matter how hard you try, you really can’t remember any sh*t you studied, for the life of you.
So how am I coping?
To be honest, I really have no idea. I’m just taking things day by day. And trying to check things off my list as they come.
I’m usually great at saving and setting affordable goals, but this wedding was something that started off small and kind of exploded. And now it’s at a number that scares me.
But I know we can do it. We’ll be okay.
And yes, the next couple of months are going to be all about the hustle. Or praying we win the lottery. Because realistically, this wedding is more than we can afford, but we’re going to get’er done. It’s something we both want and we’re all about the positive vibes right now. And I’m positively certain we’ll win the lottery jackpot before the wedding. Might as well try to put that out there to the universe.
At the end of the day, money comes and goes. Obviously, it’s preferable that we have money… and lots of it, but if this wedding is costing more than we thought, then we’ll just have to work 10 times harder. Whether it’s in the next couple of months, or the next couple of years after our wedding. We know there will be times when we’ll have an abundance of income. And times when we may be strapped for cash.
C’est la vie.
This is in no way shape or form my life advice for the world. These are my thoughts for my life and what works for me and how I’m choosing to go about things.
Is it ideal? Maybe not.
Though, you only have one life.
So, really… what’s a budget?
xo
Stephanie
Subscribe to Luxe & Loaded to stay updated with my latest posts!
For more pictures, follow me on Instagram @s_pasquali!
This may be old news to some, but I think it’s the first time I’m officially posting about it. I just didn’t want to mention anything until we confirmed our date and planning has begun.
That being said…
Today marks 1 year to the day that bae got down on one knee and proposed! And I kid you not when I say our experience was exactly how it you would see it in the movies.
Everything fell into place perfectly… except maybe my outfit. Though I wouldn’t dare change a thing… Future post to come about our engagement story and I’ll divulge all the deets.
Anywho…
For a while I was living off the engagement high. Re-telling the story until people were sick of hearing it. Flashing my ring until I was all bling-ed out… which I’m still not and don’t think I’ll ever be.
And then the questions started. Do you know when you’re getting married? Have you picked a date? Do you know where? Have you gone dress shopping? Bridal Party? Church? Venue? Flowers? Photographer?… blah blah blah.
People. Can a person go through one month of enjoying their engagement without being bombarded?
The answer is no.
But I tried to do it anyways.
And it wasn’t until last December that we selected and finalized our date.
And then I realized it was less than 8 months away.
And cue panic.
As a student, I may have been a bit of a procrastinator. I remember starting essays the day before they were due and pulling all nighters. Totally a bad habit to develop, but sometimes it happens.
Though, it would also put me in the zone and once I get started on something and my mind is focused, I do not like to be interrupted. It puts me in work mode. And I always get the job done.
Same goes for this wedding. It is the beginning of May and right now my mind is on wedding mode and there are no time for distractions. So, sorry life, but you’re going to have to take a break… and please don’t throw any more drama my way. Ain’t nobody got time for that!!
Bae and I are having a destination wedding and so we took a trip to Italy last month. Mostly to secure our date and to meet with the caterer and see some venues and churches to confirm we could, indeed, get married this year.
Once we got the green light from everybody, it’s been go go go.
Operation: Tivoli Wedding – is now in full swing.
Though, let me tell you, it is not an easy ride.
We thought we were on the right track. We started the year meeting with the Italian Consulate and making sure we knew exactly what we needed for our civil paper work. And since we are having a Catholic Church ceremony, we needed to get the religious paper work in order as well.
So we began the process.
Signed up for our Marriage classes. Started gathering our marriage searches and translated birth certificates.
Thinking we were on the right path and ready to send our papers over to Italy, we find out we were missing a big chunk of requirements that needed to be sent to the Canadian Embassy in Rome. Which was basically where we just came back from a 2 week trip.
Then the snowball effect.
Thinking we could go ahead with our religious documents, we find out from the priest, they have begun restoration on the front of the church. Aka – scaffolds.
Okay, well I can at least get the invitations started, right?
Oh no, wait. I can’t. Because the caterer and his assistant still haven’t gotten back to us with the pricing. So we haven’t selected our venue. Which means, we can’t do our invitations.
And I can’t budget for a photographer or anything else, if I don’t have a rough estimate of what the venue and food will cost me.
But at least I’ll have fun dress shopping and going to my fittings?
Oh, that’s right. I don’t have a dress yet.
Because did I also mention I can’t try on my wedding dress until my wedding day?
Thanks to my mum and her lovely superstitions, I’m not allowed to try or even touch, my wedding dress until the day I get married.
I’ll let you process that for a moment. And I will write a blog post totally dedicated to my dress shopping experience.
So, to say I’m stressing, is to say the least.
I can feel the grey hairs sprouting. And I can feel the chocolate settling into my thighs, but I know everything will work out.
I am sending that out in to the universe.
Please universe. Be kind. I know Mercury has been in retrograde and will be going back, but please, let this be the worst part of planning and help us get back on track.
And if you can add a couple more zeros to the end of my bank account that would also be most appreciated.
Thank you.
xo
Stephanie
Subscribe to Luxe & Loaded to stay updated with my latest posts!
For more pictures, follow me on Instagram @s_pasquali!
Luxe & Loaded 