This weekend is proof that dreams really do come true! Since the launch of Invisible Man in 1997, I have been a huge fan of 98 Degrees. Nick Lachey instantly became my celeb crush, and I had our wedding all mapped out. Well, fast forward 20 years later and nothing has changed. I am still an avid fan and haven’t given up on our lavish wedding. Sorry Jim!
To most, they may be recognized as washed up boy band-ers. Gianna can’t fathom my obsession either. To me, however, they represent a huge chunk of my teenage years and symbolize happy, more carefree times. Even after high school, I listened to their music and followed along on their personal journeys. Who wasn’t intrigued by Nick and Jessica Simpson during the Newlywed years?! Even my husband watched. I mourned the loss of their marriage, triumphed in Drew’s mirror ball win, and always prayed the band would reunite.
I met Nick and Drew in my 20’s, but never got a picture with Nick; something I ranked high on my bucket list. When they announced their Christmas tour last year, you better believe I was in attendance. I dragged Jim along for the ride. He begrudgingly escorted me, but refused my meet and greet request!
I was ecstatic when I heard they would be returning to the stage again this year. I wasn’t making the same mistake twice. This time I would go and purchase the meet and greet package. I knew who I wanted to come with me: my friend Micayla. Micayla is 10 years younger and probably in diapers when their first album released. I know she’s not a huge fan, but despite this, she offered to be my date. Now that’s a true friend people! We purchased the tickets in May. I had to wait almost 7 months to make my dream a reality.
The most difficult decision remained next. What would I wear?! After much deliberation, we decided to make it interesting and get matching band shirts, vintage style. Sister Denim Design to the rescue!
The whole night was surreal and just so much fun. We met some interesting people in line and had lots of laughs. When I finally made my way to the guys, I was shaking. Surprisingly, however, I formed words that made sense. I didn’t think that was possible, but Micayla and our shirts were the perfect ice breakers. I hugged each member and had my moment with Nick. It happened so fast, but the pictures depict the scenario perfectly. My huge grin and wide eyes are proof of my fan girl status. For the record, the guys were so down to earth and nice. They went out of their way to make every gal feel special and were beyond patient with requests!
After a sushi dinner, we went to the concert. We were fortunate to have very close seats. They played so many of the classics and I was instantly transported circa 1997 when my biggest concern was who to go to the prom with. I learned that Micayla is the most amazing person to go to a concert with, even if her favorite 98 Degrees song is Una Noche (possibly the only one I don’t like)!
Ladies, I hope I have inspired you to retrieve your bucket list from the drawer and get to work. It’s time to do the things that make us happy. A weekend of giddiness and downright nostalgia is good for the soul. These pictures are headed straight for the mantle!
