As the last weekend of Iron Brides is fast approaching I wanted to take the time to reflect and speak candidly about my experience. My fiance asked me recently “Do you regret being on the show?”  This question came after seeing me exhausted from this big commitment that I made and upset by people on the show that had stirred up drama. As I ponder that particular question I  have to go back to the beginning and my reason for being where I am today.

          On a snowy day in January I walked into a wedding expo with a couple of my friends. I wasn’t overly impressed with the vendor selection that was there but I was curious about this show that several girls approached me about. Iron Brides, they called it and they kept talking about how much fun they had on the show, learning  new skills about life. I decided to audition not thinking I would ever be picked. It was an easy process. After I left the expo I was determined to learn as much about Iron Brides as I could.

             By the time I was called back for the second audition I had a better understanding of the show. I had seen several episodes and checked out the website. I was drawn to the show because it didn’t  seem like the typical reality show. The goal didn’t seem to be to make a mockery of the contestents but to genuinly try to help them to better prepare for their weddings and life beyond. All of us that attended that second audition were excited and hoping for the opportunity to be on it.

         Hooray! I was one of the final eight selected. When I told my family and friends about it they either told me I was crazy or were genuinely excited that they were going to see me on television. I committed to the show because I was looking for a new adventure, to meet some new people, but most importantly to experience something new.

           Then filming began and so did the time commitment, blogging and long weekends filming. I know when I look back at it all a few memories will stand out for me. I will forever remember the day I got to fly a plane and go banana boating with a bunch of girls that I barely knew. I’ll also be thankful for all the pampering we received like massages.

          Through this process I have learned some new skills that I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to otherwise.  Through the show I have also found more of an appreciation of Colby, my fiance. I have dwelled deeper into the depths of our relationship and discussed topics with him that wouldn’t have even crossed my mind. I have alsoI grown to realize as filming continued that the true iron bride is the complete package. Someone who has strength and courage in herself and in her relationship. In order to survive in a marriage you have to walk into it with your eyes wide open. You need to have a good understanding of yourself and that person you walk down the aisle with.

             So now I return to that big question “Do I regret being on Iron Brides?” I can say with all certainty I do not. I have gotten all I wanted out of it. I have experienced new things that I never would have otherwise. I have made some new friends that have brought some fun into my life.Win or lose I don’t regret any of it. As for the drama, I guess that is to be expected with a bunch of  girls competing for a grand prize.