I never thought that I would be doing this . . . the whole getting married thing. I've always been very independent; and although I love romance -- I just never thought it was real. And for some twisted reason, I believed that MARRIAGE was losing your independence and subjecting yourself to a non-romantic relationship. Something was very, very, wrong with me. I don't even know why, my parents have been married for 28 years and even re-newed their bows a couple years ago so that my little brothers could see them getting married. It's not like I grew up in a loveless home.

I remember being a little girl, in Mexico. My family would get together on weekends and take the children out to the park and then for an ice cream or a movie. Part of the ritual during this outing was walking through a "plaza" surrounded by bridal shops. I had 6 cousins who were all a year or two older or younger than me. I was right in the middle. They use to fantasize about what wedding dress they would wear on their wedding day. I would just freeze. I just couldn't picture it.

Then, one day we were all invited into a new shop to try on flower girl's dress. The owner of the shop told us that it was like wearing an actual bride's dress. My cousins went crazy trying on the dress of their choice. I picked out a cherry-red dress. Everyone was in shock when I came out of the dressing room. My mom laughed and hugged me as my aunts and cousins giggled and commented on my choice. "It doesn't matter what dress you choose to wear when you get married, what matters is the man you choose," my grandmother said.

I believe I have chosen the right man. He loves me, he values me, and he understands me when I don't even get myself. He gave me hope when I had none, he gives me strength, and he gives me goose-bumps every single time we kiss. Above all, he gives me the kind of love I was so afraid to find.

I feel more independent, stronger, and with lots of romance in my life. So now the dress is not even one of my main worries, I already have my perfect fit.