So my FI and I have finally tentatively set our wedding date after over a year of being engaged. Originally I wanted a fall wedding, but decided the five extra months weren't worth waiting for. I'd love to get married sooner but since I graduate in December, next year will be dedicated to working and getting a place of our own set up. Having a date set and an actual countdown is nice though - it gives me a firm goal to work towards.
As for planning, I've been picking stuff up for the last year as I find it on clearance. My latest deal was about 200 silk flower stems and bushes for $45 from a florist who closed down. Right now I'm pretty much at the point where all I have left to get is FI wedding band, attire, stuff for the reception (food, drinks, tableware, etc.), and the honeymoon. I haven't booked the photographer or venue yet, but considering the photographer is a friend of mine and the venue is the local BSA camp - I won't have too much competition for them
It is nice to see a place where we can get together and plan without other brides constantly harping about "You don't know what you'll want in two years!!1!1" *rolls eyes* I just hope it can stay like this - kind of a retreat from the bigger national boards.