My dress was one of the first items checked off the wedding to do list. Of course, I thought I looked fantastic, but I wasn't so sure about Stefan's reaction. He has very specific and sometimes surprising tastes. It was hard not to give in and show him a picture of the dress beforehand. But some traditions are worth keeping, if only to torture your future groom.

Stefan tried to sneak hints whenever we'd see bridal gowns in shops or magazines. ("That's a nice cut--I bet your dress is similar", "Which of these dresses here do you like best?") I tried not to give too much away, and in the end it was so worth it! The happy look of surprise told me everything.

Click here to download a zip file of photos of our "first look".