Where did the original OBBs come from, has my relationship changed post-wedding, and do I ever get sick of weddings?

How did you manage to attract the initial OBBs who have been so eager to share their stories with you? -Monica H. When I first started researching my book in 2005, I did what most journalists do: I put a call out to my network of writing colleagues across the country to see who had […]

Difference between Ms and Mrs: Am I a Mrs if I don’t change my last name?

I decided long ago that I’d keep my name if I got married. But … what IS my name? I’ve often used the “Ms.” title, and I expect to keep doing so. “Mrs.” can, however, be useful. I always assumed I’d use Mrs. MyName at those times, but during this last week I’ve realized that in my mind the Mrs. title is inextricably linked with the husband’s name. Mrs. doesn’t just signal that I’m married, it tells people the name of the person I’m married to. Mrs. MyName feels self-contradictory and weird, like I’m married to myself.

Maybe I just have a problem with the title “Mrs.” Do people use it when they keep their name?

Unexpected groomsmen gift ideas

I’ve gotten a few questions lately from brides seeking the perfect offbeat groomsmen’s gifts. I’ve resisted weighing in because no two dudes are the same — and I really don’t dig the gender-normative trends in groomsmen gifts. It seems like it’s assumed that groomsmen are interested in booze (flasks!), titties (pin-up cufflinks!), tools, and sports. […]

Katamari Damacy wedding

May I present to you the Katamari Damacy wedding of Aidra and Ernest. These two were married in Idaho, and clearly … the whole wedding party got in on the theme: