Love you, babe.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Acknowledgments
Almost every Ph.D. dissertation consists of an acknowledgments section in which the writer gives thanks to all the major individuals, institutions, friends, and family who have lent their much-needed support throughout this journey. I spent no less than 8 pages recognizing the multitudes of people far smarter than I who shaped my intellectual development. Of course, the final paragraph was reserved for the sweetest woman I know, Betty Chau Nguyen.
Love you, babe.
Love you, babe.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
The Voice
I—the groom—have fairly good eyesight, but I trust my ears even more. This may sound stupid but my fiancée really did have me at, "Hello." For those who don't know, Betty has an incredibly silky alto voice that should be on radio or voicing commercials. When she sent me a video featuring only her voice while keeping her face hidden, my ears told me this lady was both beautiful on the outside and inside. How could one not fall in love with a voice this mellifluous? Day after day, I watched and listened to this clip on a loop. If it weren't for digital technology, this file would have worn out long ago. Once she recorded a computer software commercial for her friend and sent me the audio. Wow. Made me want to buy the software, even though they didn't have a Mac version. All I got to say is that I'm one lucky fellow. Here's the first video Betty ever sent me. Mmmmmmm...auralicious.
Phuong: my loverly gentleman
Yes folks, one of the most dearest traits I love about Phuong is that he's a gentleman. Below is a great article I read, that makes me smile, because I know I caught me a good one ;)
Being a gentleman can walk the fine, Chuck Bass line between sleazy and smooth. What was once considered gentlemanly could now easily be a universal turnoff. So what is a 2010 gentleman made of? Here are 12 traits to start.
- Read the news today: We know he was on the Internet, but can he talk about the big stories? A modern-day gentleman can.
- Doesn't overuse Facebook: I wouldn't go as far as Christina Hendricks and say he shouldn't have a Facebook account (they're kind of an obligatory), but he also shouldn't be updating it like a 16-year-old girl. True for Twitter too.
- Dresses up without borrowing: He may need to rent a tux, but other than that he's ready, pressed, and set for any occasion.
- You can take him anywhere: Whether it's to an art opening or a bar closing, he knows how to act, dress, and circulate at (nearly) every occasion.
- Recommends books: He not only reads, but he has an opinion on what's good, what's not, and what you'd like.
- Tips well: If you can't afford the tip, then you can't afford the dinner. A gentleman knows this, and he will not try to weasel out of it.
See the final six below.
- Pays you back: Nothing should stop him from paying you back, especially if it's a large sum. Not even a breakup!
- Doesn't talk about exes: Unless you ask him (and do you really want to?), he doesn't talk about his ex-girlfriends. Especially by obliquely referring to them as "friends"!
- Can cook dinner: Really, it's not that hard. It doesn't have to be amazing or gourmet or even in season; it just needs to be, well, cooked.
- Holds the door: It may sound old-fashioned to the point of passé, but it's one of those small gestures that's just better off done. If he does it, we notice; and if he doesn't, we wonder why.
- Is kind to women — and men: Kindness knows no gender, and he knows that. If he's nice to only ladies, then he's in it to win them. And, he'll always lose.
- He's not perfect, and he knows it: With this list, we're not saying a modern-day gentleman is made of perfection. We don't want to live with that, and we certainly don't want to live with a man who believes it.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Silly Questions
I had to share this article that I read from the knot.com.
Its pretty funny stuff!
Ever been faced with a wedding comment that was so inappropriate it left you tongue-tied? Among the congratulations and well-wishing, you're bound to hear a few remarks that are rude, annoying, or flat-out appalling. Be prepared and you'll leave them sputtering.
"Are you sure you're ready?"
Translation: Coming from an unmarried acquaintance, this sort of question is likely a projection of their own fears -- they're not in a position to make a lifelong commitment, so it's hard to imagine that you could be.
Quick comeback: Exude confidence and leave no room for anyone to debate if you or your fiance is in any way unprepared for what you're getting into: "Absolutely! We are completely in love and ready to be together forever."
Translation: Coming from an unmarried acquaintance, this sort of question is likely a projection of their own fears -- they're not in a position to make a lifelong commitment, so it's hard to imagine that you could be.
Quick comeback: Exude confidence and leave no room for anyone to debate if you or your fiance is in any way unprepared for what you're getting into: "Absolutely! We are completely in love and ready to be together forever."
"The marriage won't last."
Translation: Whether it's a reflection of their own marriage problems or a past incident that convinced them monogamy is impossible, this person has a knack for souring good news.
Quick comeback: It's easy to get seriously offended by this one, but take the high road and try cheesy humor. Ask if their favorite precious stone is "jaded" or whether they hit any traffic on the Pessimist Expressway that morning.
Translation: Whether it's a reflection of their own marriage problems or a past incident that convinced them monogamy is impossible, this person has a knack for souring good news.
Quick comeback: It's easy to get seriously offended by this one, but take the high road and try cheesy humor. Ask if their favorite precious stone is "jaded" or whether they hit any traffic on the Pessimist Expressway that morning.
"Your engagement is too long."
Translation: Any engagement over a year might seem excessive to some, but it takes a lot of time to pull everything together. The person's comment may be out of surprise, not ill will.
Quick comeback: You have a few acceptable options: Explain that the best wedding vendors are booked more than a year in advance, that you're extending the engagement to save more money, or that you have something you want to accomplish (finish your degree, settle into a new job) before you make your marriage official.
Translation: Any engagement over a year might seem excessive to some, but it takes a lot of time to pull everything together. The person's comment may be out of surprise, not ill will.
Quick comeback: You have a few acceptable options: Explain that the best wedding vendors are booked more than a year in advance, that you're extending the engagement to save more money, or that you have something you want to accomplish (finish your degree, settle into a new job) before you make your marriage official.
"Your engagement is too short."
Translation: While you and your fiance have probably discussed getting engaged for a while, the news might be a shock to some. The person who says this doubts you'll have enough time to plan a nice wedding.
Quick comeback: Reassure them that though your engagement is brief, you set the wedding planning wheels in motion well before he popped the question. Be calm -- if you seem too swept up in the excitement of the proposal, it supports the idea that you're rushing things.
Translation: While you and your fiance have probably discussed getting engaged for a while, the news might be a shock to some. The person who says this doubts you'll have enough time to plan a nice wedding.
Quick comeback: Reassure them that though your engagement is brief, you set the wedding planning wheels in motion well before he popped the question. Be calm -- if you seem too swept up in the excitement of the proposal, it supports the idea that you're rushing things.
"Is that really the ring you wanted?"
Translation: Almost any engagement ring can elicit a snide remark, whether it's too big, too small, too sparkly, or not sparkly enough. This sort of nastiness undoubtedly stems from jealously that you've been proposed to, and the ring is an object that provides an outlet for them to concentrate all their envious feelings on.
Quick comeback: It's every newly engaged woman's right to show off her rock, but if you get negative vibes from someone, draw focus away from the ring with a simple reply like, "We're both really happy and excited."
Translation: Almost any engagement ring can elicit a snide remark, whether it's too big, too small, too sparkly, or not sparkly enough. This sort of nastiness undoubtedly stems from jealously that you've been proposed to, and the ring is an object that provides an outlet for them to concentrate all their envious feelings on.
Quick comeback: It's every newly engaged woman's right to show off her rock, but if you get negative vibes from someone, draw focus away from the ring with a simple reply like, "We're both really happy and excited."
"This bridesmaid dress is ugly."
Translation: While it's a cliche for a bridesmaid to gripe about the dress, it still happens. If she's strapped for cash, her disapproval may be in hopes that you'll pick something less expensive. Or she could really think it's hideous.
Quick comeback: Find out why she doesn't like it and try to locate some middle ground. Suggest that she stick with the dress color but then let her choose her own silhouette.
Translation: While it's a cliche for a bridesmaid to gripe about the dress, it still happens. If she's strapped for cash, her disapproval may be in hopes that you'll pick something less expensive. Or she could really think it's hideous.
Quick comeback: Find out why she doesn't like it and try to locate some middle ground. Suggest that she stick with the dress color but then let her choose her own silhouette.
"That's a great idea...I'll do it too!"
Translation: Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but it's aggravating when a friend steals a unique wedding idea. Take it as a compliment that your ideas are so great; then steer your friend in a new direction.
Quick comeback: Agree the idea would work well in your friend's wedding, but suggest she personalize it to better fit her style. Encourage some brainstorming and change an element of the concept so it's similar but not identical.
Translation: Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but it's aggravating when a friend steals a unique wedding idea. Take it as a compliment that your ideas are so great; then steer your friend in a new direction.
Quick comeback: Agree the idea would work well in your friend's wedding, but suggest she personalize it to better fit her style. Encourage some brainstorming and change an element of the concept so it's similar but not identical.
"Who is paying for all this?"
Translation: Maybe they're surprised by all of the nice details you've included in your wedding, or perhaps they're wondering how your parents could afford to host such a great party on their own dime. Either way, this one ranks near the very top of the bad etiquette list.
Quick comeback: Unless you're willing to share that info, immediately let the person know they've crossed the line: "I'm sorry, but that's between my fiance and me."
Translation: Maybe they're surprised by all of the nice details you've included in your wedding, or perhaps they're wondering how your parents could afford to host such a great party on their own dime. Either way, this one ranks near the very top of the bad etiquette list.
Quick comeback: Unless you're willing to share that info, immediately let the person know they've crossed the line: "I'm sorry, but that's between my fiance and me."
"Am I going to be invited?"
Translation: No need to decipher this one -- this person simply wants to attend the party. Tactless on their part, sure, but don't be surprised when an annoying coworker, excitable neighbor, or wayward cousin asks for an invite.
Quick comeback: Rather than postpone the awkwardness with a dodgy line like, "We haven't finalized the list yet," tell them that, due to a tight budget, you're keeping things intimate and the guest list will be mostly close family.
Translation: No need to decipher this one -- this person simply wants to attend the party. Tactless on their part, sure, but don't be surprised when an annoying coworker, excitable neighbor, or wayward cousin asks for an invite.
Quick comeback: Rather than postpone the awkwardness with a dodgy line like, "We haven't finalized the list yet," tell them that, due to a tight budget, you're keeping things intimate and the guest list will be mostly close family.
"How much did that cost?"
Translation: This can be interpreted in a few ways. If the person is planning their own wedding, they're probably asking out of genuine interest because they like what you're doing. If, however, there's no chance they're planning their nuptials, odds are whatever you tell them will garner an obnoxious response.
Quick comeback: A simple "That's none of your business" will suffice, or you could throw them off with some dramatics: "It cost me an arm and my fiance a leg -- next week we're going in for surgery together. Romantic, right?"
Translation: This can be interpreted in a few ways. If the person is planning their own wedding, they're probably asking out of genuine interest because they like what you're doing. If, however, there's no chance they're planning their nuptials, odds are whatever you tell them will garner an obnoxious response.
Quick comeback: A simple "That's none of your business" will suffice, or you could throw them off with some dramatics: "It cost me an arm and my fiance a leg -- next week we're going in for surgery together. Romantic, right?"
"I'm RSVPing...with guest."
Translation: Some people think that it's fine to tack on a "plus one" to any wedding invite. Though it's definitely a wedding etiquette faux pas, you should give your guest the benefit of the doubt and chalk it up to an innocent misunderstanding rather than a snobby "I don't go anywhere without a date" attitude.
Quick comeback: Call as soon as you receive the offending RSVP and gently explain: "I'm sorry that it wasn't clearer, and we're excited you're coming, but our guest list is packed so we can't include a date for every guest."
Translation: Some people think that it's fine to tack on a "plus one" to any wedding invite. Though it's definitely a wedding etiquette faux pas, you should give your guest the benefit of the doubt and chalk it up to an innocent misunderstanding rather than a snobby "I don't go anywhere without a date" attitude.
Quick comeback: Call as soon as you receive the offending RSVP and gently explain: "I'm sorry that it wasn't clearer, and we're excited you're coming, but our guest list is packed so we can't include a date for every guest."
"I want to make a toast."
Translation: They want the world (or at least the reception) to know how proud they are you tied the knot. And a minute in the spotlight satisfies any extrovert tendencies they might have.
Quick comeback: Say that you're flattered by the offer, but you want to keep the toasts to a minimum -- just the parents and honor attendants. If a close family member really wants to speak, you should consider letting them say a few words at the rehearsal dinner.
Translation: They want the world (or at least the reception) to know how proud they are you tied the knot. And a minute in the spotlight satisfies any extrovert tendencies they might have.
Quick comeback: Say that you're flattered by the offer, but you want to keep the toasts to a minimum -- just the parents and honor attendants. If a close family member really wants to speak, you should consider letting them say a few words at the rehearsal dinner.
"So when are you going to have kids?"
Translation: The joy of a wedding leaves some people overly enthusiastic about the next huge life event: starting a family. Curiosity about baby plans is natural -- most people keep those thoughts to themselves, while others prove to be significantly less reserved.
Quick comeback: Even if you have a clear plan about when you want to start having babies, be vague in discussing a timeline. Try, "We'd love to be parents someday, but we're taking things one step at a time -- starting with the wedding."
Translation: The joy of a wedding leaves some people overly enthusiastic about the next huge life event: starting a family. Curiosity about baby plans is natural -- most people keep those thoughts to themselves, while others prove to be significantly less reserved.
Quick comeback: Even if you have a clear plan about when you want to start having babies, be vague in discussing a timeline. Try, "We'd love to be parents someday, but we're taking things one step at a time -- starting with the wedding."
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
BCN: Introducng: The cuteness factor ~.~
I was so happy a few years back, that Lien asked Co Nhung and I to teach VNC traditional Vietnamese dance. These girls are orphans from Vietnam adopted by loving parents in BC. It was heart touching to have the opportunity to engrain some Vietnamese heritage and culture for these girls. That's why I couldn't resist asking them to be my flower girls along with my niece, and young cousins.
Introducing: Vietnam Connection!
So cute! Vietnam Connection performing at the Vancouver Public Library (King Edward Village) grand opening - Jan. 2009
It goes without saying, that I'm having my youngest cousins, and niece to walk the catwalk ;)
Introducing: the little ones in the family
Brandon Dinh - The professional very experienced ring boy. He's a little older now, but I had to post this picture with him and Chopper.
Kaitlen - little cousin from Ontario. She was once the baby of the family, now she's such a little lady in her first communion dress - pretty!
Jada Nguyen - my niece, the littlest addition to the family - baby model extraordinaire!
Can't wait to walk down the aisle with all these adorable little people!
PTN: The Wedding Venues
Notice the very large Cadillac Escalade the wedding party rented for the occasion and conveniently parked across from the Holy Rosary Cathedral. For those who don't know this building is over 100 years old and was constructed at the tallest hill in downtown Vancouver. Before that, the Catholic community worshipped at the bottom of the hill, but closer to the water.
And though we recommend taking the Skytrain (subway) or parking in a garage, we have to admit that Vancouver has more than its fair share of streetside parking spaces, all of which can be paid for by phone. That will be good news for out-of-town visitors who don't have time to build a new stockpile of Canadian money.
And from the church, we will move a few blocks south to the Roundhouse for our reception, which starts promptly at 6 pm after the 5 pm cocktail hour.
From Drake, turn left at Roundhouse Mews into the parking garage.
This is the entrance from Drake Street, but people can enter from the round part of the Roundhouse as well.
Once inside, guests will follow the train tracks to the spacious Exhibition Hall.
Here's the view from the head table looking towards the main entrance.
And a view from the side of the hall. Can't wait til we fix it up for our wedding day. July 24. Less than 3 months to go.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
BCN: My Ladies - the Maid of Honor & the bridesmaids
It took me quite some time to find my wedding gown, so for my ladies - helping them to look for their right gown also needs some good quality research to find 'the one' that they will look great in. We've brainstormed several ideas: and this is funny, but narrowing it down to:
1) Red/black/white
2) purple/white
3) blue/white
I've entrusted the ladies to decide among the many dresses we researched, and I am confident they will choose a dress they will look fabulous in!
Thank you ever so much for your undying friendship, love and support, ladies.
1) Red/black/white
2) purple/white
3) blue/white
I've entrusted the ladies to decide among the many dresses we researched, and I am confident they will choose a dress they will look fabulous in!
Thank you ever so much for your undying friendship, love and support, ladies.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Details and more details!
Down to the details. Phuong is coming to town next week to help me with as many remainder details as humanly possible! Even though we have about 3 months to go; it feel like the home stretch. Just have to focus on the finish line!
We're finalizing paperwork, lists and more lists, decor, accessories, DIY projects, list of images we'd like to capture...... and so on and so forth..... Hopefully the list gets smaller as the months zero down to The Day. I've got tons of DIY inspiration from this awesome site: http://www.stylemepretty.com/category/real-weddings/diy/
But, I have to narrow it down. So many wonderful ideas for just one day. Narrow it down, Betty, narrow it down... its so hard - everything is so purty! I like this DIY idea:
Though, I wonder how that will work for a 350 guest list :s
I've been researching some photo op ideas, we probably won't be able to get them all, but they sure do look pretty ;)
Can't wait to take pictures with my hubby to be, family and friends!
Super Excited!
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