Modern Wife Life

Wedding dress shopping.... exciting, daunting, and every emotion in between.  Most women think about their wedding dress long before they've met the man they will marry.  This is their "princess moment" and they want to feel more beautiful than ever before. No pressure. 

When Wes and I got engaged in February and set our wedding date for July 1st I knew that I immediately needed a dress.  Immediately as in like the next day.  Why the rush?  Wes was going to wear his dress whites, so I had to wear white to match, not ivory.  Wedding dress shops usually have 90% of their inventory in ivory, not white, because it's easier to hide any stains from the repetitive try-ons.  Ordering a dress in white takes up to 6 months for delivery.  Um, not okay. 

While I would have loved to have the whole "Say Yes to the Dress" experience with my mom and my bridesmaids it wasn't practical with the timing and with them in Minnesota and me in San Diego.  And for my personality it was a little less stressful and more low-key to go alone.

I had been eyeing wedding dresses on Pinterest for a few years to get a feel for what I liked.  Call me crazy, but I prefer "prepared."  I knew I wanted 1) pure white, 2) straps, and 3) an interesting back.  I scheduled appointments at two bridal shops I found on Yelp, 2000 Dreams and Prevue Formal and Bridal.   

2000 Dreams was more like 2000 Nightmares.  It was a bust.  The shop opened 1 hour late.  That should have been my first sign. When I walked in I told the consultant what I was looking for: white, straps, and an interesting back.  There was a slight language barrier, but I did catch her say "you small chest" as she looked me up and down.  Great start.  At least we were on the same page.  She pulled about 8 dresses, ranging in price from $800 to $8,000.... my fault for not giving her a budget, but when else will you have a chance to try on an $8,000 gown!?   It was a mixture of Allure and Mori Lee gowns. I loved Mori Lee.  The dresses were long enough for my 5'8 1/2" frame, they had gorgeous lace, and they fit my derrière quiet nicely. After each dress I tried on the consultant would get super pushy to try to get me to buy it on the spot, but I really wasn't loving anything. I understand commission is tough and it must be hard to get brides to make a decision, but I felt like she was yelling at me.  It was time to get out of there. 

Prevue Formal and Bridal was a much more relaxing experience.  I told the consultant that I would like to focus on their Mori Lee dresses.   They had about 7-8 Mori Lee dresses that I hadn't tried yet.   The main problem at Prevue was the lack of the white and the sizing... everything was ivory and about 2 sizes too large so we had to use a lot of clips.  When I tried on the Mori Lee 2807 I mostly loved it.  Then she said she was going to "jack me up."  Um, okay that sounds gross.  She meant adding the finishing touches like shoes, veil, and trim.  They should just call it the "icing on the cake".  Anyways, the final touches sealed the deal.  I felt like a beautiful bride. I called the 2000 Dreams store to compare pricing on this dress, and Prevue Formal and Bridal even price-matched them for me.  The only problem was that they didn't have the right size or color in store so I would have to order it, and it would arrive in late June, one week before my wedding.  Yikes.  I needed a night to think it through.

The next day the consultant at Prevue called me with excitement and said that they just got the Mori Lee 2807 dress into the store in my size AND in white!  This was an unexpected delivery in their shipment and they rarely get this size in their store, let alone in white.  I jumped in my car and headed over.  It was a miracle.  This dress fit like a glove.  No alterations were needed.  I was so excited, but I still wanted to think about it for the day, so I walked out of the store and called my mom.  Before even making it to my car I turned right around and walked back into Prevue to buy the dress.  My mom gives great pep talks. 

Once I got the dress home I kept it in the dress bag in our guest room.   I asked Wes not to look at it.  And he legitimately didn't look at it for the next 4 months!  That's self-discipline.  I would have lasted about two days before taking a peek.  

I loved the beaded trim for the waist that they showed me in at Prevue, but it was $40/foot.  I would have needed 3 feet, or $120 of trim.  My mom and I found it on Amazon for $15.99 for 1 yard!  See it here. We saved $104! Tip: Always check Amazon for accessories you see in bridal shops. 

The dress made it safely back to Minnesota for the wedding.  Of course I had been trying it on almost once a week up until the wedding to make sure it still fit. Wes and I had been working out a lot before the wedding and I was getting nervous that it would be too tight if I gained too much muscle. 

Before I knew it it was July 1st and my mom was using her crochet hook to hook the buttons on my dress.  Suck it in! Suck it in!  Nope? Exhale! Exhale! Whew, the dress fit.  You would think that the most nerve-wracking part would be fitting into your wedding dress, but no, I was actually more nervous for my Wes's reaction.  

I had been thinking about that "first-look" moment for months, where Wes would see me in my dress for the first time.  I wanted so badly to "wow" him.  And I was so nervous that he wouldn't like it.  Would he think the back was too low?  Would he like it better if it was poofy?  My amazing Matron of Honor, Britnie, reassured me over and over that he would love it.  She was right.

The "first-look" moment was perfect.  Wesley's reaction was better than I ever imagined it could be.  His jaw dropped and his face broke into a huge smile as he let out a big laugh of delight.  The picture more than speaks for itself.  In the end I realized it's not about the dress.  It was never about the dress. It was about wanting to give my groom a beautifully packaged gift that made him feel loved and honored.  I was so happy that he was happy.  That was all I wanted.  Mission Wedding Dress... Accomplished.

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We were so blessed to be able to have 4 photoshoots before we got married, 3 in California and 1 in Minnesota.  P.S. I wasn't a crazy bride... 3 of those 4 were free of charge. After preparing for those 4 photoshoots and seeing what worked and what didn't, I have some helpful tips that I would like to pass along to all of the lovely engaged couples.  Hope you find these useful!

Fig & Rose Photography, La Jolla Shores

Tip #1: Whiten your teeth. Yes, it might sound vain, but you will be SO glad you did it.  The key here is that BOTH you and your partner should whiten, because otherwise there will be an obvious disparity. My husband and I whitened with Opalescence gel in trays for about 7 days before each photoshoot to touch up our original round of whitening.  White teeth brighten up your whole look.

Tip #2: Don't forget your LIPS.  This is for both ladies and gentlemen.  I see this in so many engagement photos... dried raisin lips. Ahhhhh!  I get it. You're taking pictures for 1+ hours. You're kissing a lot.   You're talking a lot.  Your lips are going to get dry.  But seriously bring a back up of chapstick for your man and bring something with color for you, whether that be a lip gloss, tinted lip balm or lipstick.  You will be so glad you did. 

Victoria Heer Photography, Balboa Park

Tip #3:  Add texture to your outfits.  It's really easy to focus on color or pattern when choosing your outfits. However, including texture really draws the eye to the two of you and adds depth and richness to the photos-- like a chiffon pleated dress (my fav), a quilted vest, fur accents, buckle details, a layered look, crinkled silk, an airy scarf, edgy leather, cozy flannel, eyelet details, cut outs, woven sweaters, ruched sides, ruffled sleeves, lace overlays, studs, sequins,  or suede.  

Tip #4: Take your engagement photos somewhere UNLIKE your wedding venue.  Take the opportunity to go for a totally different backdrop.  If your wedding is outside in the country, consider a more urban setting for your engagement photos.  If your wedding is inside, consider a more natural setting.  Our wedding was indoors in downtown Minneapolis, so our engagement photos were taken 1) on the beach, 2) in a park with lots of architecture, and 3) around the farm I grew up on. They all had a super different feel.

Victoria Heer Photography, Balboa Park

Tip #5: Clean your ring AND bring flowers!  Even if you just got it last week you should definitely clean it before your photo shoot.  And after seeing how amazing it was to have the bouquet of flowers at our shoot with Victoria Heer I would highly recommend bringing a bouquet as a prop.  The photographer will love having it to be creative with.  Look at what Victoria Heer did with my engagement ring the bouquet she brought for us!

Fig & Rose Photography, La Jolla Shores

Tip #7: Wear colors that ALSO coordinate with your home decor! Why? I realized this after our first photoshoot where I wore a pink & white dress.  I loved the photos, but we decorate mostly in beachy coastal colors like whites, grays, beiges, blues, greens... not pink.  If you have a great photo you would like to frame and display in your house, it's a great bonus if the colors flow nicely with your decor!  #alwaysthinkingahead

Tip #8: Practice any Pinterest poses that you want to copy beforehand.  You don't want to waste time pulling up Pinterest on your phone during the photoshoot to find that one cute engagement picture. Do the photographer a favor and practice it in a mirror beforehand so you're all set to go. 

Fig & Rose Photography

Tip #9: Ladies, try wearing something that will move with the breeze.  It looks really lovely in outdoor photos when you are wearing a floaty dress or skirt that flows nicely when there's a breeze.  While a structured sheath dress might look super classy, an airy, floaty ensemble will create interesting lines and a more lively, dreamy feel.

Tip #10: Request to receive all photos in color and not any in sepia or black and white.  Why?  Because you can always add the black and white or sepia filter yourself, but if there's a photo in black and white or sepia you can't reverse it to color yourself.  It gives you more options if there is a photo you love love love. 

Tip #11: Ladies, don't wear anything strapless.  For those close up shots of your faces you will probably look naked... and then it will look like an entirely different type of photo shoot.  Ehem, yeah.

Victoria Heer Photography

Tip #12: Make sure to get photos that feature the man, not just the woman.    A lot of photographers tend to focus the engagement session on the bride-to-be, showing more of her face, etc.  Sometimes they forget that the man is not just a prop.  The man is the handsome, incredible prince charming that swept her off her feet and he needs some face-time, too!  The amazing photographer Victoria Heer pointed this out to us and made sure to showcase my husband.

Tip #13: Choose posing-inspiration that matches your height ratios.  One amazing photographer, Victoria Heer, pointed out to me that a lot of couples have ideas for poses that totally don't work with their heights.  For example, if you and your partner are both 5'8" and you're trying to emulate a pose that is done with a 5'2" woman and 6'2" man it may not look the same... and it may not be possible without using stairs, etc.   Keep this in mind when looking for inspiration.

Fig & Rose Photography

Tip #14: Ask for a couple of individual shots as well.  It's nice to get an individual photo of each person during your engagement shoot, and sometimes couples forget to do this.  You'll be glad you got one and it's nice for mixing into your engagement shoot album. 

Love,

Mrs. Dylan Jahraus

Rodan+Fields.  Have you heard of them?  Maybe you've seen a bunch of Rodan+Fields before and after pictures on your Facebook feed or maybe you know someone who is a consultant for them. Rodan+Fields was started in 2002 by Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields. These were also the  creators of Proactiv, the acne treatment product line that is infamous for its commercials. Rodan+Fields is their line of anti-aging skincare.

My friend from college and dance team, Emily Frey, is a Rodan+Fields consultant and sent me some products to try.  She sent the mini facial which had between 1-3 uses to it.  It consisted of a 1-3 time use packet of the Micro-Dermabrasion Paste, 1 Night Renewing Serum Capsule, and 1 Lip Renewing Serum Capsule.  Below are my first impressions of each product.

1. The Mirco-Dermabrasion Paste
This was an AWESOME exfoliant.  I've always been one to experiment with exfoliants.  I've tried salt-based exfoliants, sugar-based exfoliants, and apricot-based exfoliants.  Heck, when I'm in a hotel room and need an exfoliate I'll even pour a sugar packet into my hand and rub it all over my face.  #Resourceful.  While the Rodan+Fields Micro-Dermabrasion Paste tastes pretty bad (I don't recommend tasting it unless you want a mouth full of the ocean), it works THE BEST out of any exfoliant I've tried before.  This was my favorite part of the mini facial set.   You only need a teeny tiny bit so this product will last you a long time.  I got 3 uses out of one sample alone, and they recommend using it 2-3 times per week.

2. Night Renewing Serum
This little capsule was uber cute.  It was definitely a 1 use packet, but I feel like my head is kind of large so maybe some folks with smaller faces would get 2 uses out of it.  The great part about it coming in a capsule is that you'll never use too much.  It's a great way to ration your product. And how perfect for when you travel!  No need to cram all your bottles into ziplock bags anymore.  The product is retinol-based which is a huge buzzword in the anti-aging skincare community.  Basically, retinol is magic.  The texture was very silky smooth, almost like a silicon-based primer.  It leaves your skin very smooth and not greasy.

3. Lip Renewing Serum
Let me just say that I am a lip balm/chapstick addict.  I literally will turn the car around if I forget my lip balm at home.  So I was very excited to try the Rodan+Fields Lip Renewing Serum! First, I would recommend only using half of the serum capsule at a time.  I took the "go big or go home" approach and definitely had some extra serum running down my chin afterwards.  It's not thick or heavy like cupcake frosting, but more like a the glaze on a glazed donut.  The best part?  It keeps your lips moisturized for hours!  I only wish it came in a more user-friendly packaging that I could take with me everywhere. :)

Where would I start if I wanted to try R+F?
Emily recommends the Redefine line as it's the #1 anti-aging premium skincare treatment in the country (she uses it herself daily, too!). Check out Redefine HERE. But if you're looking to start with just one product she recommends the eye cream.  It helps reduce lines and puffiness.  Take a look at the all products on Emily's site HERE.  You can take a quiz on Emily's site to determine which customized plan is right for you.  Check out the solutions tool HERE.

What will it cost?
All of the regimes range between about $160-$175, but keep in mind that these will last you a long, long time. You can also save 10% and get free shipping if you sign up as a preferred customer.  Also, consider it an investment.  The great part is that it seems like people see results pretty quickly.  Check out the before/after photo where this customer used R+F for just 4 weeks.  So if you aren't happy with the initial set of products there's no pressure to purchase another set. But from what I've heard, people tend to continue with extreme satisfaction.

Rompers, jumpsuits, onesies.... whatever you call them, I love them! I appreciate how versatile they come, from sexy to modest, from casual to dressed up.  Rompers are easy, comfy, and effortless.  It's an entire outfit in one piece! Keep in mind, however, that rompers and jumpsuits emphasize proportions so proper fit is key.  If a romper is too short-waisted then it will ride up, and if it's too long-waisted it will give you a diaper butt.  Lovely.  If you try on a romper and it doesn't fit, don't rule out all rompers. There are so many different types, fabrics, colors and fits.  Fitted and flowy. Dark and light.  Conservative and curve-hugging. Fancy and casual.  Youthful and mature.  Long and short.  Wintery and summery. Try on different brands until you find one that caters to your proportions and shape. I promise it's out there. Here are some great romper looks I'm loving this spring.

E N G A G E M E N T pictures! For years I've been watching album after album of engagement pictures funnel through my Facebook newsfeed, all the while taking notes and studying posing tactics.  Yes, posing tactics.  I like to be prepared.  Now it's almost our turn, and I'm so excited.  These are pictures that we will have forever to look back on and remember this special time.  And the fact that we get to take these photos at one of the most beautiful spots in the US is a serious blessing. The best part is that my fiancé (I love saying that) actually had thought about these engagement pictures and had some detailed ideas of what we should wear.  What a thoughtful guy. I've been scouring Pinterest for ideas, too, and found some great outfit options from ASOS.  I feel like ASOS is a step up from Forever21 and slightly more risky than Zara.  Good prices, too!  Here are some of my favorite potential engagement picture looks from ASOS.  Super light and airy with lots of feminine details... and did you know that ASOS has "tall" sizing in some rompers and jumpsuits?  Score! Solving first-world problems right there...

I am a mascara girl.  I love it.  I have long lashes already (thanks, mama), but they're not very dark, so mascara helps highlight what's already there.  

I've tried so many mascaras and CoverGirl LashBlast Volume works the best for me. (it comes in an orange tube). CoverGirl recently sent me their new LashBlast Plumpify blastPRO to try so I gave it a test.  See the before and after picture below.  

Overall, LashBlast Plumpify blastPRO wasn't as good as LashBlast Volume.  The LashBlast Plumpify blastPRO "double action brush" is spiraled, and it's not tapered at each end like LastBlast Volume.  The diameter of the brush is also quite large. As a result it's really easy to poke yourself in the eye.  And it makes it near impossible to coat your tiny inner and outer lashes.   

While the results look okay (see below), it wasn't a great experience.  I give the results a 4/5 star rating and the application experience a 1/5 star rating.   Also, I give the name a 0/5 stars.  "LashBlast Plumpify blastPRO".... it's quite a mouthful. 

Victoria's Secret was having their Semi-Annual sale here in Seattle this week and I was able to snatch up this adorable bikini.  I don't think it was meant to be a set, but I think the lavender bottoms go nicely with the printed top.  It was the last one they had.  The fit is perfect, and I got a great deal.  Originally it was $57 and I got both pieces for $17. Score!  I can't wait to wear this in San Diego. 

XOXO,

Dylan

Personally, I feel more excited for a workout when I have a cute outfit to wear.  There's so many places to get unique, affordable workout clothes.  It's so fun to find a really unique piece with a one-of-a-kind, strappy back detail, a fun print, or a pop of color that coordinates perfectly with your sneakers.  I love sports bras with unique necklines, back details, or prints, no-pill yoga pants that hold everything together nice and tight, and tops with unique cut outs and back details.  

If you find yourself wearing workout clothes 50% of the time, then they might as well be clothes that make you happy, inspired and comfortable.  I've put together a collection of some of my favorite workout looks currently inspiring me to get in shape for the move to San Diego.  I can't wait to get back in the gym.  

Here are some tips if you're out shopping... I've seen great matching sets at Nordstrom Rack, adorable sports bras at Forever21, and great zip ups at Old Navy.  Macy's and Sports Authority have great sections and deals for Nike.  I've heard the Gap has great leggings with many fit types.  Outlet malls usually have awesome selections at their Nike, Reebok, New Balance, and Adidas stores-- the outlets are the way to go if you're wanting to stock up on these brands.  Target has really comfortable sports bras, but I'm not super impressed with their bottoms.  H&M active wear has pretty poor quality and fit from my experience. Victoria's Secret has an amazing new sports bra selection (I could see active wear becoming as strong as their swimwear someday). Marshalls and TJ Maxx have a nice selection of apparel, especially bottoms, but their athletic footwear selection is weak. My previous employer, Zappos and 6pm.com, have strong selections on apparel and footwear and lots of unique, exclusive colorways in your favorite styles from the best brands.  I have found amazing deals and solid quality pieces at JCPenney, but not so much at Kohl's. Of course you can also go the more fancy schmancy route with brands like Lululemon, Zobha, Onzie, Vimmia, Oiselle, Alo, Lole, or Lorna Jane.  Sometimes these premium brands are featured on flash sale sites like Hautelook, Zulily, or the Clymb, so I'd keep an eye out for those sales!