Hey there everyone! :) I thought it was about time to give our lovely contributor Kristine an official introduction! She’ll be hanging out around here a little more in the coming months, so I made had her answer a few interview questions so you all can learn more about her, and maybe even get a little advice too! ;)

What made you start blogging?

I started blogging while I was in the middle of planning my wedding. I guess I figured since I was already immersed in all things weddings, I might as well make a blog out of it! No, no, I’m only partly serious. I honestly fell in love with the wedding world while I was planning my own. I loved searching through all the incredible inspiration on my favorite blogs, interacting with other brides-to-be and past brides, and connecting with other writers.

   Do you have any advice for brides who are planning their weddings?

        I’m a big proponent of the budget. And, like you suggested in one of your recent Thursday Tips post, I agree that it should be the first thing brides and grooms-to-be do when it comes to wedding planning. I was never the kind of girl to dream about my wedding but I still found that I had so many expectations about my wedding day. I had to find the perfect dress that made me cry tears of joy when I put it on (which, by the way, I did NOT), I had to look and feel my most beautiful, I had to, I had to, I had to… So, I think understanding what your limits are up front and developing realistic expectations is one of the best things you can do for yourself.

   Now that you’re married, what are your plans for your future in the wedding world?

        Continue blogging, of course! I love writing–it’s one of my passions in life–and something I hope to do full-time some day. But I also really love the wedding industry which is something I realized while planning my wedding. So I’ve decided to pursue my own wedding planning and marriage preparation business (launching in January 2012). I have a Masters degree in Marriage & Family Therapy and I really love working with dating and engaged couples. I think it’s so important to prepare yourself for marriage–educate yourself on those hot button issues, communicate with one another regarding your expectations for the future, and learn what strengths you have as a couple. In addition to helping couples plan their weddings, I also hope to help them prepare for a long and happy life together!

What do you like to do for fun?

Oh man, if I had all the money in the world, I’m pretty sure I’d use it to travel. My husband and I love traveling and experiencing new places and cultures. But we’re also quite the homebodies too. Some of our favorite nights are curling up on the couch in our sweatpants and watching a movie. I also love reading, playing with my cute little kitten (he was a wedding present from my husband), decorating our home, and, uh, organizing? Do I really do that for fun? I think it’s more for sanity. :)

What is your favorite wedding detail?

Don’t make me choose a favorite! That’s no fair! My favorite detail is the one that conveys something meaningful and unique to the couple. Is that cheating? No, really, that is truly my favorite. Whether it’s favors from the groom’s favorite donut shop, a beautiful heirloom from the bride’s great-grandmother, or tables numbers named after the bride and groom’s special memories–those are the elements that make a wedding beautiful. I think you’d agree with me, wouldn’t you, Lauren? :)

Of course I agree with that! I only talk about it several times a week! ;) Oh and Kristine has a fabulous blog, In Love, Engaged… she has an awesome marriage tips series on there too! :) You can learn a little more about Kristine here on the About page also! Please give Kristine a big warm (and official!) welcome everyone! :)