#Bridal Dress for Rental

[connorhunter]

undefined

Get a bridal dress on rent at affordable pricing with a single click. We have the widest collection of Lehenga, Indo Western Dresses, and Gown Rent. Navya Bridal & Groom Collections - Navya Beauty Parlour.

[googlystan]

Pre-Wedding Photoshoot Dresses | Kahva Jaipur

[nostringscouture122]

 The Smart Choice for Modern Brides: Dresses for Rental                                   

The wedding industry in India is known for its grandeur and extravagance. Among the many elements that contribute to a memorable wedding, the bridal attire holds a special place. Traditionally, brides have invested heavily in purchasing their wedding dresses, which often includes ornate bridal lehengas and elegant bridal gowns. However, a growing trend is reshaping the way brides approach their wedding wardrobe: renting dresses. This blog explores the benefits and options for renting bridal lehengas and bridal gowns, making a compelling case for this practical and stylish choice.

 The Rise of Dress Rentals

In recent years, the concept of renting bridal attire has gained significant traction. Several factors contribute to this shift, including the high cost of purchasing bridal wear, the desire for variety, and a growing consciousness about sustainable fashion. Renting allows brides to wear the dress of their dreams without the financial burden and guilt of a one-time use.

 Bridal Lehenga on Rent: Tradition Meets Practicality

A bridal lehenga is often the centerpiece of an Indian bride’s trousseau. These elaborate, heavily embroidered garments can be quite expensive, with prices ranging from tens of thousands to several lakhs of rupees. Renting a bridal lehenga offers several advantages:

1. Cost-Effective: Renting a lehenga is significantly cheaper than buying one. This allows brides to allocate their budget more efficiently, spending on other aspects of their wedding or saving for the future.

2. Access to Designer Wear: Renting provides access to designer lehengas that might otherwise be unaffordable. Brides can choose from collections by renowned designers, ensuring they look stunning on their big day without breaking the bank.

3. Variety and Flexibility: Rental services often have a wide range of styles, colors, and designs. Brides can experiment with different looks without committing to a single dress. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for pre-wedding functions and receptions.

4. Convenience: Many rental services offer customization and alteration options, ensuring the lehenga fits perfectly. Additionally, these services include delivery, pick-up, and dry cleaning, making the process hassle-free for the bride.

 Bridal Gowns on Rent: Elegance Made Accessible

For brides who prefer a western-style wedding or a reception gown, renting a bridal gown is an equally appealing option. Bridal gowns on rent come with their own set of benefits:

1. Affordability: Similar to lehengas, bridal gowns can be quite pricey. Renting allows brides to wear luxurious, high-quality gowns at a fraction of the purchase price.

2. Designer Options: Rental services offer gowns from top international and Indian designers, giving brides access to the latest trends and timeless classics.

3. Eco-Friendly Choice: Renting reduces the environmental impact associated with the production of new dresses. It supports sustainable fashion practices by promoting the reuse of garments.

4. Perfect Fit: Rental services often provide fitting sessions and alterations, ensuring the gown looks tailor-made for the bride. This ensures comfort and confidence on the big day.

 The Rental Process: Simple and Stress-Free

Renting bridal lehengas and gowns is a straightforward process. Brides can browse online catalogs or visit showrooms to select their desired outfits. Most rental services offer detailed consultation to understand the bride’s preferences and requirements. Once the selection is made, fittings and alterations are arranged. The dress is delivered before the wedding and picked up afterward, often including dry cleaning services to maintain the dress in perfect condition.

 Conclusion: A Modern Solution for Contemporary Brides

Renting bridal lehengas and gowns is a smart, stylish, and sustainable choice for modern brides. It offers the perfect blend of affordability, variety, and convenience without compromising on the elegance and grandeur expected of bridal attire. As the trend of renting dresses continues to grow, more brides are discovering the benefits of this practical approach, ensuring they look their best while making savvy financial and environmental decisions. By embracing the rental revolution, brides can enjoy their dream wedding without the stress and expense of owning an extravagant dress they might never wear again.

[popindesigner]

Gown on Rent

Bridal gowns that looks glamorous and stunning, but are usually very expensive. You can look glamorous and beautiful with heavy designer gown on rent form Popin designers. We have selective collection of gowns suitable for events like engagement, reception, sangeet and parties. Rent it, wear it and return it – simple and easy process with convenience and great affordability. Visit Popin designer website and start browsing. Rent it now!

[thehouseofcouture1]

Discover the perfect gown at our Bridal Shop in Walnut Creek. Our exquisite collection caters to every bride's dream. With personalized service and a range of styles, find your ideal wedding dress. Book an appointment and let us make your bridal journey unforgettable.

For More Information Contact US:

Website: https://thehouseofcouture.com/

Email: Shari@thehouseofcouture.com

Address:  710 South Broadway Walnut Creek California 94596, #204

Phone:  9259431505

[jessica-larson]

Dreams in focus with our Bridal Shop Business Plan—a brief blend of style, service, and unforgettable moments. Join us in reshaping the bridal experience, creating a destination where dreams come to life, and every gown tells a unique love story.

[hizamaia]

Interview with Fiona

When you started wedding dress shopping, did you know what you were looking for? Did you come with inspiration pictures or was it a case of searching until you found a style you felt confident in?

Not exactly! Though I had some rough ideas of what I might like and what I didn’t think, which was just based on my overall style of clothing I like to wear as well as the venue and vibe I was after. But in saying that, what I ended up choosing wasn’t what I had initially imagined! Like other brides to be, I had a little Pinterest board of my so called ‘inspo’ looks. But as I started to try dresses on, I realised I needed to find the one that made me feel special and confident rather than what I had thought looked good on others

What is your favourite memory in your dress from your special day?

That’s such a hard question because I loved the dress, the entire day! I’d say when I was first putting on my Bronte wedding dress to get ready was special as it was finally the moment and it began to sink in that I was going to get married! But I think my favourite would still definitely be at the ceremony as I was walking down the aisle. I had never felt so beautiful in my dress!

What are three words you would use to describe your gorgeous wedding dress?

Romantic, dreamy and beautiful

How would you describe your overall Wedding Dress shopping experience at Brides of Beecroft?

Absolutely incredible! I felt like the ladies there truly are there to help you find your perfect dress. I actually came into the store thinking I had already found my dress and wasn’t even really expecting to walk out ordering one but boy was I wrong! They had such a beautiful selection of dresses that I actually ended up falling in love 2 of them! Julia was so lovely and asked me all the right the questions that led me to THE dress! My Bronte wedding dress. I truly had the best experience there and HIGHLY recommend making an appointment with them for all brides-to-be. I’ve already brought a few friends there myself and each time the consultants/stylists were just as amazing and helpful!

What is the biggest piece of advice you can give to future brides?

I know all brides say this, but truly the day goes by so quickly. Make sure where you can, to take a moment to just absorb. I had never felt the way I felt that day. The amount of love that my husband and I felt from our closest family and friends was like no other. It is truly the best day of your lives!

If you found it interesting Kindly visit our websitefor more blogs and updates!

[celenawrites]

inspired by this lil rambling I did a while back

The veil on your head sticks to your forehead with perspiration and your fingers ever so slightly shake with nervousness. You stand before a large wooden door, and walking inside the room seems almost impossible for you. You consider calling a raincheck, or maybe running away from this whole arrangement - but your friend pats you comfortingly on your back and you feel somewhat grounded again.

This entire fiasco is for your own benefit, and you don't have any other alternatives.

So you suck it up and push open the wooden door, taking long strides to close the distance between you and your unknown betrothed.

The church is mostly empty save for the groom and a few key witnesses, thanks to a favor the old priest owed to the task force’s captain. The door’s loud creak gives you away, and everyone is now looking at you. Captain Price, the man who orchestrated this union, stands proud and steady as he eyes you down mechanically - possibly an old habit from his time serving in the army for so many years. The old priest stands in front of the pews with bated breath, almost impatient to get this over with. There’s a middle aged woman sitting in the front and she looks at you sharply with disdain, you’d assume she’s part of your betrothed's task force, if it wasn’t for the fact you were intimated last minute that she’s his mother.

And there’s your groom - Sergeant Kyle Garrick, dressed in an all black suit as he eyes you down with what seems to be wonder in his eyes. Apart from them, there seems to be no one else present here. 

Your friend adjusts your veil as she walks with you down the aisle. You’re sure that by now, her hand must be throbbing in pain from how hard you’ve gripped her. When it came to tying the knot, you hadn’t exactly envisioned this in your mind - but you try your best to play with the cards you’re dealt anyway. 

You almost wish you had dressed elaborately, instead of settling for a short white dress and a rental veil that makes your nape itch - but your wedding called for urgency and you had to ditch the elaborate bridal plans if you wanted to ensure your amenities are not cut off by the end of the month. 

With bated breath, you walk down the aisle as you grip onto your friend for some comfort. The walk is finished in minutes, and your friend is quick to leave you standing before your groom and the priest as they take a seat in the pews nearby. You look at Mr. Garrick, and he’s even more ethereal up close. A light scar runs across the span of his left cheek, but it only adds to his charm. His warm brown eyes twinkle like stars under the yellow fluorescent lights lighting up the room. If you had met him under any other circumstance, you’re sure you’d been smitten by now. Maybe you’d have asked him out for coffee…

Almost sensing your nerves, Kyle is quick to flash a kind smile your way and you breathe deeply as you look back at him and smile back a watery smile of your own. For his sake, you’ll suck it up and deal with it just fine - no matter what. 

Snapping out of your wishful thinking, you try to concentrate on what the priest is saying, but it is so hard to pay attention to the dronings of an old man when your handsome soon-to-be-husband stands in front of you. You notice that he taps his foot thrice at an interval of eight or so minutes, maybe as a way to deal with his nerves. After all, this is not just your wedding day. 

You both soon dot your I’s and cross your T’s as you both give out short, succinct vows and promise each other the promise of love and respect ‘till death do us apart’, which leaves an ashy taste in your mouth. This is not how this was supposed to be, but you both have no other choice in the matter. 

The rings are brought out, and you gape at how pretty the diamond looks on the thin platinum band. You wonder how much of his paycheck Kyle had to spend in order to find something this big and beautiful, and you almost feel ashamed for the ring you bought, a simple band with small gems encrusted in it - no cheaper in this economy, but still falling short of what the Sergeant had prepared for you. 

With quivering hands you slip his ring onto his finger, and he quickly returns the favor with a steady hand holding onto you, the warmth of his palm feeling awfully nice and comforting against your clammy hands. The priest finally announces, “You may now kiss the bride.”

Fearing the worst, you close your eyes shut as you’re not certain on how to approach this step. You’re no virgin, but kissing a man you barely know (and marrying said man) is something you hadn’t anticipated in your twenty-something years of your life. You feel Kyle wrap an arm around the small of your back gently as he raises the veil on your head - only to give you a chaste peck on the corner of your lips, just shy of giving you a proper kiss. Everyone present in the church let out reluctant claps, calling curtains on the show you both have put out knowing well enough that there is more to come. 

Now that the union was finally complete with witnesses and your marriage certificate soon after filed and to be submitted for review, you are looking forward to crashing on a bed and sleeping the day away after gorging out on some much needed junk food. (Especially if you wish to forget how Kyle’s mother has been eyeing you down like some filthy vermin throughout this sham of a wedding, really.)

“Welcome to the married life, Mrs. Garrick”, Kyle is quick to whisper in your ear as he ushers you out of the small church, and you’re yet to decide if you like the way he refers to you as his. 

“Can we get some takeout on the way home?” you ask him, and he smiles that brilliant smile your way, the one that makes you just a little weak in the knees. 

“Whatever you want, wife.”

[butmakeitgayblog]

Isn’t Alycia’s latest post a perfect picture of the #MBFW Cabo trip? Could we have a peek at whatever you are working on for #MBFW? 🙏

Tiny sneak peek if ch3

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Lexa never really saw herself as much of a ‘chiffon and ruffles' kind of girl. 

Apparently she had slept-walked through the phase of daydreaming adolescence that seemed to have infected the greater population of her peers whenever homecoming and prom had rolled around over a decade earlier. Her general disposition and distinct lack of enthusiasm meant she had remained mercifully unscathed through most banquets and dinner parties, even managing to slip through the cracks of a few ill-conceived appearances at more distant friends' nuptials-to-be.

She'd thought she'd flown under the radar of pomp, frills, and satin for the entirety of her life. Safe in her cotton blends of sundresses, dress slacks, and half-undone button downs.

And yet there she stood, surrounded by shocks of bunting, bows, and lace.

It honestly made her feel a bit queasy.

Yet, the bridal shop had felt like a welcome reprieve from the chaos of the brunch turned midmorning affair. Eggs Benedict and half eaten sausage laid in discarded puddles of ketchup and syrup as everyone had moved from the sanctuary of their assigned tables to use the rest of the allotted time to catch up with old faces. But with a time crunch at hand and a very ‘Not Here To Mess Around’ Abby taking the reins, Lexa had found herself ushered out of the banquet hall and into Clarke's death trap of a convertible, right along with the bride-to-be and (soon-to-be ex) groom yet again. 

A lead footed trip across town had them screeching up in front of a small boutique that would've vaguely resembled any other dress storefront, if it were not for the general appearance that someone had thrown up pepto bismol coated taffeta all over anything that would sit still.

They'd been met inside by the shop owner herself, Abby having apparently taken an immediate liking to the stout dictator of a woman whose vaguely threatening aura was only enhanced by a thick European-esque accent that Lexa couldn't quite pin down. But between fluttering lashes and clasping hands and smiles that betrayed nothing short of gratitude and a willingness to do whatever the woman decreed, Lexa had been able to tell from the second they'd walked in that Abby was positively smitten.

She'd ushered the group in pairs, waving the bridal party toward her right in a bored jab of one calloused finger, while waving the other hand toward the tuxedo rental outlet that connected next door with a droll, “Anybody who wants a suit, you go there. Unless boys, you want dress as well. I can do that. Otherwise, you go. Go.”

Which was how Lexa had found herself standing awkwardly off to the side in a sea of her family, mixed in among people she'd only met about an hour before as each getting prodded, poked, and pinched by tiny but mighty hands in the name of getting their measurements. 

"I have been on dates that haven't felt this intimate," Raven grunted from her place on the pedestal before being unceremoniously spun around, just to have her arms yanked out to the sides the second she found her footing. "Ow, shit, lady."

"No curse in my shop. Only smiles. It's happy day," the owner droned out in hollow, monotone clips, before planting a hand on Raven's back and all but shoving her off to the side. “You're beautiful, yes, perfect. Okay, go.”

Raven stumbled out of the line with a backward scowl, making her way over to where the bride and maid of honor waited for the rest of the bridal party to finish their turn. "Who fuckin' let her outta the gulag early?"

Clarke barely paused in her casual perusal of the closest rack lined with dress options. "Hey, uh-uh. She's the only one who could promise to have all four bridesmaids dresses done in three days and do alterations for everyone else. Her work is supposedly immaculate—"

"And that's great, I'm in awe of her tiny bridal kingdom, but she doesn't have to give me a pap smear and a smack on the ass to get that done."

"At least she didn't actually feel you up," Lexa offered with a shiver at the memory of her turn in line. She double-checked that no one was paying attention to their little huddle before lowering her voice and bringing her hands up to roughly cup her own breasts. "Oh no. You have metal on your bosoms," she imitated the shopkeeper in an accented, disappointed whisper, "This will be no good. You take those out day of, okay?"

"Lexa—"

"They're nice, though, yeah," she continued over Clarke's chiding in the same mysterious accent, giving an added flick to one piercing studded nipple in question. "Not cross-eyed. Very nice. But no good for big day."

The trio worked to smother their giggles as Clarke reached out and dragged Lexa's hands away from her own chest. "Seriously, stop," Clarke whispered through her own fit of laughter. "If you offend her, mom is going to go ballistic."

"Tell me about it. Jake needs to get here pronto ‘cause I give it like another half hour tops before Abby’s ready to open the marriage."

"Besides," Clarke stressed, ignoring Raven entirely. "Don't listen to her. You know I don't care if your piercings show through your dress."

"She's telling you she wants you to put the girls on display,” Raven added with a sultry shimmy of her chest.

"Dude. My mother is fifteen feet away."

“Well you're the one telling her you want her highbeams on full blast.”

Clarke's face heated into a deep shade of pink as she leveled Raven with a glare and snatched another hangered dress off the rack. “That is not what I said. What I said was that it's not an issue. Lexa's nipples won't be an issue.”

“I've been your friend for a long time, Clarke. When has Lexa's nipples ever not been an issue?”

Lexa weakly interjected, “Maybe we could all stop talking about Lexa's nipples now. Maybe that's the real issue.”

“You brought ‘em up, cutie,” Raven husked with a smooch of her lips and a lecherous sweep of her tongue over her teeth. 

Lexa merely rolled her eyes, while Clarke piped up, “Stop flirting with my maid of honor, Raven.”

Raven snorted a laugh. “You first.”

Clarke made a garbled sound of dissent and whirled around, walking over to the connecting wall covered in mirrors without bothering to dignify that with an answer.

Seemingly pleased with her effect, Raven slung an arm over Lexa's shoulder and met her look of disapproval with an evil smirk. 

“You guys really make it way too easy.”

[am-i-the-asshole-official]

AITA for wanting a more traditional wedding?

You know what this blog needs? Bullshit wedding planning drama. I don't think I'm a bridezilla but my fiance is making me feel like I might be.

My (34q) partner (35m) finally proposed after years of us dating and living together. We'd discussed marriage before, and his main hang-ups were that he doesn't feel marriage is necessary after being common-law so long, he doesn't want to spend a lot of money on a big wedding, and while he knows I want to be married, he also wanted to have a cute proposal for me and couldn't find a good way to do it.

Now, about an hour after he proposed, I started jokingly talking about how I can finally get out the wedding binder and he was shocked. I reminded him that proposing means I get to actually plan a wedding now, as opposed to looking at wedding ideas on pinterest, and that he doesn't have to be more involved with it than he wants to be since planning stresses him out (and I live for it).

But now we're a week in, and he's been really resistant to what I think are pretty normal wedding planning ideas, like:

could he pick 2-3 friends to be best man and groomsmen (he doesn't know why we'd bother having bridesmaids/groomsmen for a small wedding)

that we would be picking the suits for them to wear, to match the theme

that if we ask his best friend's daughters (2 and 4) to be flowergirls, that I would also pick their dresses

I don't want a massive wedding, but a small bridal party for a DIY wedding is basically a must, since we need people to help out (and I would be making this clear when we ask them if they would like to be involved). I'm also not looking to break the bank - I'm fine with suit rentals, and looking for dresses for the girls in the $30-50 range.

An important note is that of our planned 30-40 guests, most would be on his side- I have no family, basically (disowned), and a half dozen close friends. I'm planning to pay the entire wedding outright and don't want financial help from his parents, since my family wouldn't be contributing. I feel like, as the person who's been lowkey planning this for a hot minute, I have a better idea of what we can afford and it's not unusual to ask guests to follow a simple dress code, and the wedding party to dress to theme.

A second important note is that I'm trans/queer, and for a lot of my life didn't think I would ever get to have a traditional wedding- the fact that it's an option for me has been really fulfilling, and I really believe in marriage, not just for a symbol of commitment, but also as a way to guarantee my partner their rights in my life (and death).

AITA/Bridezilla for wanting a few of the traditional bells and whistles for my wedding?

What are these acronyms?

[nostringscouture122]

Title: Elevate Your Style: The Convenience and Elegance of Renting Lehengas and Bridal Dresses Online                                 

Introduction:

In today's fast-paced world, where trends come and go, and sustainability is becoming increasingly crucial, the concept of renting dresses, especially traditional attire like lehengas and bridal dresses, is gaining immense popularity. With the rise of online platforms offering a plethora of options, finding the perfect outfit for your special occasion has never been easier. Let's delve into the world of renting dresses online, focusing on the exquisite charm of lehengas and bridal dresses.

Convenience Redefined: Lehenga on Rent Online

Gone are the days when finding the ideal lehenga involved hours of scouring through stores, trying on numerous outfits, and dealing with the hassle of alterations. With the advent of online platforms offering lehengas on rent, shopping for traditional attire has become a breeze. Whether you're a bride-to-be looking for that dreamy ensemble or a wedding guest in search of the perfect outfit to make a statement, renting a lehenga online offers unparalleled convenience.

These platforms showcase a wide array of designs, from traditional to contemporary, catering to every taste and preference. With just a few clicks, you can browse through an extensive collection, select your desired outfit, and have it delivered right to your doorstep. What's more, many rental services provide customization options, allowing you to tailor the outfit to your measurements for a perfect fit.

Embracing Elegance: Rental Bridal Dresses

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, with numerous decisions to make and endless details to consider. Finding the ideal bridal dress is undoubtedly one of the most significant aspects of the planning process. However, purchasing a bridal dress can be a hefty investment, not to mention the storage challenges post-wedding.

Enter rental bridal dresses, offering a practical and elegant solution to this dilemma. By opting to rent your bridal dress online, you can adorn yourself in exquisite couture without breaking the bank. These platforms feature a stunning selection of bridal dresses, ranging from timeless classics to contemporary designs, ensuring that every bride finds her perfect match.

Moreover, renting a bridal dress eliminates the need for storage space after the wedding, allowing you to bid farewell to the stress of preserving the dress. Once the celebrations are over, simply return the dress, and let the rental service take care of the rest. It's a hassle-free way to embrace elegance on your special day without the added burden of maintenance.

Conclusion: Elevating Your Style with Rental Dresses

In conclusion, the concept of renting dresses online, particularly lehengas and bridal dresses, offers a perfect blend of convenience and elegance. Whether you're attending a wedding, a festive celebration, or any special occasion, renting allows you to explore a diverse range of designs while minimizing the environmental impact associated with fast fashion.

By embracing the trend of rental dresses, you not only elevate your style but also contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry. So, the next time you're in search of the perfect outfit, consider the convenience and charm of renting dresses online. After all, fashion is fleeting, but style is timeless.

[popindesigner]

Dress on Rent for Wedding

Looking for the perfect dress for your wedding day look, Popin designer have got you covered. We offer wide range of designer dress on rent for wedding, from luxurious designs to affordability and convenience all benefits are yours to enjoy and look stunning on the wedding day! Buy dress on rent for wedding now from Popin designer!

[thehouseofcouture1]

Cherished Moments Begin Here: Wedding Dresses in Walnut Creek

Discover the perfect wedding dress in Walnut Creek for your special day. Our curated collection combines timeless elegance with contemporary styles, ensuring you find the gown that complements your vision. From classic silhouettes to modern designs, our bridal dresses capture the essence of romance. Elevate your wedding day with our exquisite selection.

[cellythefloshie]

10, 14, & 17 for fic asks!

- @comphy-and-cozy

✍️ more fic writer asks!

10. what is the longest amount of time you've let a draft rest before you finished it?

I think it's a year (Happy Birthday for the Road Wife series), though there may be more. I have so many documents it's easy for me to keep track of when I created something haha.

14. where do you get your inspiration?

Everywhere? It'll just hit me while listening to music/watching tv/working/just walking around. Then I have to rush to get it down before I lose the idea haha 90% of my WIPs are just fully planned one-shots that I just thought of randomly.

17. talk about your writing and editing process

This is very detailed, so I will be putting it under the read more.

It never used to be much of a process, but the longer I spend my time here, the more I refine it. It started with the idea, and I try to get that into a document as soon as I can so it doesn't elude me. This often resembles a synopsis of a book ad will include the main characters and the general plotline.

This is what my summary for Just Me & You:

During the summer, and both of them would be back in Calgary for a mutual friend's wedding, both are on the bridal party and both in relationships themselves. Forced to get along the best they can - Adam is forced to watch Charlie with her cocky trust-fund baby boyfriend - and he doesn't like Adam either and makes it clear when Adam and Charlie start falling into old routines of their inside jokes and too-close-to-just-be-friends behavior.

Wesley - Charlie’s Boyfriend - FC: Ben Barnes

Groom: Dillon Heatherington

Bride: Daphne - A childhood friend of Charlie and Adam - introduced her to Dillon when they were both playing for Swift Current - FC: Sophie Turner

Then, it goes into the chapter planning process. Which is very detailed. I determine the events of each chapter and outline everything right down to the dialogue with bullet points. Again, Just Me & You Chapter 2 for example:

And then I write out the scene:

-when she’s fitted in her dress Charlotte sneaks out onto the porch for some air

-her thoughts are in turmoil as she tries to cope with the conversation she had with Wesley

-she’s out on the porch when Danica pushes out the from door, the screen door slamming behind her as she moves for the rental

-she’s visibility upset and Charlotte moves to call out to her but Adam is moving out the door behind her with her bags in her hand

-Charlotte watches as he puts her bag in the trunk and moves to the driver's side to speak with her through the window 

-she can’t hear what is said but soon Adam is walking back to the porch and Danica is leaving down the driveway

-“hey,” Charlotte greets him, voice soft, “is everything okay?”

-“yeah, everything’s good, better now actually,”

-“Oh?” Charlotte can’t help but be curious, “when will she be back?”

-“she won’t be,” Adam hums and leans against the railing of the porch

-he’s looking over her shamelessly at the sight of her in her dress

-“I’m sorry,” Charlotte hums, trying to sound sincere, “I am, Adam really.”

-“The only thing you have to be sorry for Charlie, is looking as good as you do in that dress.”

-Adam then leaves her on the porch and she’s left in shock

Choking back a sob, Charlotte left the den behind her. She moved swiftly through the summer home, her head down to keep anyone from seeing the tears that threatened to spill down her cheeks. She didn’t run back to the living room that had become the bridesmaid’s workshop for the afternoon, and she didn’t run up to the bedroom. Instead, she moved for the front door and out onto the porch where she was met with the comforts of the warm summer breeze, and the faint floral smell that cloaked the air. It was a scent of comfort, one from her childhood laced with the memories of times that were so much simpler, and in an instant, it brought her peace. 

It was a peace that was interrupted by harsh words spoken out on the front lawn. Charlotte couldn’t quite hear them, but the tone had he looked up from the white wood beneath her bare feet and out over the land. Not too far from the porch, her eyes fell on Adam, who stood half-dressed in his tux that he would be wearing tomorrow. Something had interrupted his fitting, leaving his button-down splayed open, his chest on full display, and his belt loose around his hips. The subject of his tone, she didn’t know. They were on the other end of the phone call, his phone pressed firm to his ear as he paced back and forth in the grass. 

Maybe it was wrong for her to stay there, lingering, trying to listen to the frustrated words that spilled from his lips - but curiosity was a cruel thing and she needed a good distraction and so she indulged herself in the broken conversation. 

“-I told you not to call me anymore.”

She watched as Adam took a heavy breath, his hands coming up to pinch the bridge of his nose. 

“-That's just it Danica-”

Charlotte stepped a little closer to the edge of the porch, her elbows coming to rest against the rails as she quickly became all too invested in the conversation at hand. Her own relationship wasn’t perfect, and it was the very reason she too had gone out to the porch, but for a moment she could forget about that and indulge herself in Adam’s own drama - and selfishly, she couldn’t help but wonder if he really was single. 

“-no, no, don’t fly out here. We’re done, we’ve been done. It’s time for you to move on.”

Then, as quickly as she had stumbled on him, the conversation was over and Adam was slipping his phone back into his pocket and moving back towards the house. It had only taken him a few strides for him to notice her standing there, and it left Charlotte’s skin red hot - she had been eavesdropping, she didn’t want him to know that. Yet, she made no attempt at making excuses. Instead, she showed her concern. 

“Hey,” she swallowed hard, “is everything okay?

“Yeah, everything’s better now, actually.” Adam’s voice was soft as he took the porch steps in two casual strides. 

“Oh?” Charlotte hummed out and was met with only silence and for a moment she was sure Adam was going to go straight back inside, but instead she leaned up against one of the tall pillars of the porch, and crossed his arms firmly over his chest. Charlotte didn’t dare look at him as he stood there, knowing that her eyes were still under threat of tears she didn’t want him to see - but it didn’t stop Adam from staring. She could feel his gaze as it moved over the angles of her body, taking in the sight of her gown as it hung off the body he had once had the pleasure of getting to know better than almost everyone. It was a feeling that sent a shiver up the length of her spine. It was one not caused by the breeze but she played it off as such as she brought a hand up to run a hand over her arms which were now prickled with goosebumps. 

“You got everything sorted out, then?” She managed to speak again, her head cocking to the side casually as she finally let herself look up at Adam. 

“How much of it did you hear?” Adam half groaned, but his smile grew as he looked down at her. 

“Oh, I ah- It’s time for you to move on,” she admitted slowly her tone teasing as she mimicked the firm tone he had used. It earned a low laugh, his head shaking and sending his sandy brown hair into his eyes. “I’m sorry. I am Adam, really. I came out to get some air and I just kind of walked into it.”

Adam’s smile didn’t waiver as he stepped in close, his hand brushing over the curve of her back as he leaned in just enough to mutter against the shell of her ear, “The only thing you have to be sorry for Charlie, is looking as good as you do in that dress.”

Whether it was the heat of his words against her flesh, or the words themselves, Charlotte was left at a loss for words as Adam straightened up. She could meet his eyes as he pulled away, her dark gaze lost on the lawn in front of her as his words seemed to echo in his mind. She wanted to bite at him, to tell him that he shouldn’t say such a thing, but even if she could manage anything more than an uneven breath Adam didn’t give her the opportunity to. With his words, he had disappeared through the screen door leaving nothing more than the hollow sound of its closing in his wake. The sound was quick to fade, only to be replaced by the pounding of her pulse in her ears. Charlotte’s mind was quickly lost on how even after Adam was gone the touch of his hand against her back lingered and she near trembled at how his words had rocked her straight through to her core with a shock she did not know if she was going to be able to recover from. 

Finally, I throw it into a Tumblr post and use Prowriting Aid and Grammary to edit. They aren't perfect, but it's hard to find a good/reliable beta.

[contentment-of-cats]

WiP bit 24

Yissa Hammerly: Age 21: Corulag: Curamelle: Hall of Citizens: Bride's Room

The Nightingale · Percival Schuttenbach. Click link above for music.

It became the thing her family was most famous for and they hated it. Yissa had been the perfect Corulagi Citizen's daughter. The Hammerly family's wealth and prominence was wholly due to the ability of producing marriageable sons and daughters, and ownership of refineries that produced hyperfuels for commercial fleets and government vessels. Yissa completed her degree and served her three years of youth service before her family decided that her bride price outweighed service in the Bormea Sector Defense Force.

Yissa knew better than to argue. There were two paths to becoming a full Citizen - military or civil service for five years or giving birth to three live-born children. Yissa knew the path she wanted to take. Numerous female relatives and ancestors had married after their terms or even full careers. However when a Gwain and a Mansom had a bidding war for the youngest Hammerly daughter, everything went right out the airlock. At least with Mansom Corporation, Yissa could have used her skills. Gwain won, and she'd be hosting inane garden parties until she went mad. All she had to do was bide her time. Her sisters had gone tamely to the altar, and her brothers married complacent young ladies. Any deviation from standard would see her escape routes closed off. So, she waited.

If she managed to make it to the recruiting office and swear in, the betrothal would be annulled. Even on the day of her wedding, the law would uphold her which told Yissa that a Runaway Bride was likely more common than anyone in her family wanted to talk about.

Cutting it close was an understatement, but there was no opportunity until the morning of the legal ceremony. The celebration of the groom would last for hours as they showed off the family's wealth and prestige. After that shitshow, they'd come for Yissa. The enthronement called for her father and uncles to carry her to the hall and set her on the bridal throne. Mother would then remove her shoes, then her future husband would lower her veil and put the bridal crown on her head. Just like that, she would be someone's wife, no longer her own person.

Fuck that.

The whole thing made her want to puke.

When the music started, Yissa opened the window and looked down.

Somehow this had not looked quite as far up when she was planning this.

It took a minute to figure out that she should grab the vines next to the window and then ease out onto the ledge. the door was locked from the outside, and the mechanism was filled with Quik-Glue from her cosmetic bag. Dressed in her full bridal dress of nine mets of cloth, bracelets three quarters of the way up her arms, ear sets, headbands, necklaces, rings, and even a pouch at her waist filled with more jewelry, she swung out, dipping one slippered foot down to catch in the flowering vines.

"Don't look down. Don't look down."

She didn't scream even when she lost one slipper, then the other - and both took an uncomfortable amount of time to hit the ground. Nobody raised the alarm, but there was nobody in the adjoining buildings to raise the alarm this early on Free Day. Yissa's feet were cut and bleeding, leaving prints on the duracrete as she ran to the stand of rental speeder bikes, groping the credit chip out of her breast supporter. Years later, security camera images would show her descent and then flight, red bridal dress whipping our behind her.

Nothing could convey the pounding of her heart, or the lurching of her stomach as she gunned it for the nearest recruiting office. The BSDF officer was locking up but the second she saw Yissa, the sergeant reopened the door. Getting off the bike became a panicked tumble, and Yissa left bloody red footprints as she hauled up the three layers of skirts and ran.

"My name is Yissa Hammerly, a legal adult and I want to join the Bormea Sector Defense Force!" The door shut and locked behind her, the words leaving her in a rush. "Please-"

The sergeant would not be rushed, taking Yissa's information, looking over her record. She transmitted the request, Yissa in a cold sweat as she realized that she could hear the sounds of pursuit. A chime from the terminal made the sergeant nod.

"Out the back, we're getting in the speeder. There's a ship leaving for officer training on Chandrila." The shutters slid into place oevr the windows and Yissa ran. "Repeat after me, Candidate Hammerly-"

Yissa's but barely touched the seat before her hand was over her heart.

"I, Yissa Hammerly-"

The engine started, the sergeant backing the airspeeder out of it's space.

"-being an adult of sound mind and no criminal background-

Turning for the spaceport.

"-do solemnly swear that I wish to enlist in the Bormea Sector Defense Force, pledging my life and sacred honor to defend my people and home against all enemies from without and within-"

Her parents looked furious. Good thing that walling your daughter up alive wasn't legal anymore.

"-this I affirm, pledge, and aver."

"Yissa Hammerly, you are a Cadet Candidate of the BSDF."

Yissa's head fell back against the headrest and she closed her eyes. Thank Coru. It was over, but at the same time everything was beginning anew.

[samuraiko]

21 years and counting!

"Every bride dreams of having the perfect fairy tale wedding."

Fuck that. :D There is a reason that John and I refer to our engagement, wedding, and reception as "The Comedy of Errors."

Strap yourselves in, folks.

What follows is an INCOMPLETE list of what went wrong.

John’s job not wanting to allow him the time off to go to Las Vegas to get married

Meeting John’s parents for the first time, and his dad bluntly asking if we’d be sacrificing a pig at the wedding (we’d explained we were having a handfasting ceremony)

Pranking my maid of honor and bridesmaid by making them think I’d gotten them these horrid pink dresses (my goddaughter bridesmaid threatened to run me over if I made her wear pink)

While scoping out locations, Caesar’s Palace saying they were a TRADITIONAL establishment and that handfastings like ours weren't allowed there (even though we’d be wearing traditional wedding outfits and were basically indistinguishable from a regular wedding)

Three weeks before the wedding, discovering the jeweler had mis-sized our wedding rings

Finding out a WEEK before the wedding that the best man wasn’t going to be able to attend, and press-ganging my brother into the role

Getting to Las Vegas and discovering the rental shop had lost John’s tux

The Clark County clerk misspelling my name on the marriage certificate… TWICE (and they STILL managed to mis-spell Tucson as Tuscon) *facepalm*

John’s parents missing the rehearsal the night before because they couldn’t find a parking space and never thought to valet-park the car

Breaking my tooth on the SALAD the night before the wedding, at the rehearsal dinner (I am not joking)

Discovering an HOUR before the wedding that the mother of the bride getting married just before I was, and MY mother, were wearing the EXACT same dress (the bride and I were wearing different dresses however)

Realizing 30 MINUTES before the wedding that we’d forgotten bread and wine for the ceremony, sending my brother off to get some (thinking he’d come back with a dinner roll or something) and having him return with this MONSTROUS artisan loaf and a bottle of wine

The mic on John’s tux making him sound like Darth Vader throughout the ceremony (which meant that John, me, my maid of honor, the best man, and my bridesmaid were already giggling)…

… and THEN we get to…

Getting to the vows only to belatedly realize that in glossing over the vows during the rehearsal, we’d forgotten to tell the officiant how to PRONOUNCE my last name

(Leading to video footage of the ENTIRE bridal party with identical “OH SHIT” expressions before I openly lost it at the altar and was doubled up crying into my bouquet while screaming with laughter)

John grabbing my rear through the bustle of my dress as we were having our photos taken because I was getting tired of smiling and just wanted to get to the food at the reception…

… which means that OF COURSE…

Being so busy running around and hugging everyone and talking at the reception that I FORGOT TO EAT

Pranking the photographer during the reception with the now-infamous “MOOSE!” picture

My now-aunt-in-law, having had a few drinks at the reception, offering John the sage advice that “the key to a happy marriage is to always remember to put the toilet seat back down.”

There were others along the way, but these were certainly the most memorable. And in the end, a wedding celebration should be a joyous occasion.

I wouldn't trade any of it for a typical, boring, staid wedding. This was MUCH more 'us.'

Here's to at least another 21 years. :)