Let me preface this by saying I know that everyone is different, it depends on how hard I work, it depends on my body, it depends on all kinds of stuff. But I just want to get SOME kind of general idea to see if I'm setting myself up for total failure.

I would like to be in a size 16 dress at my cousin's wedding, which is exactly a year from now to the week. With my body shape (very large chest in relation to rest of me, big belly, pathetically flat butt) and with dresses running a little big from David's Bridal (in my experience), I figure I'll be able to wear a 16 dress at about 200 (that's what size my prom dress was from there when I was 210).

I know it's unrealistic to say I'm not going to have a bad week between now and then, so is it crazy to hope to lose 82 pounds in one year if I stay on plan almost all the time and have a few slip-ups?

I certainly don't think so. I think if you stay on plan and keep your eyes on the prize, you'll make it. Good luck!

I lost 80 or so pounds, and it took me about a year. I started at 220 or 230, and lost down to 140...

82 lbs is a very reasonable goal, especially at your age, but there can't be many slip-ups.

You Can Do It! Good Luck!

okay, my story may be different because I didn't calorie count or follow South Beach or Atkins or whatever.
I used Medifast and it took me since September of '09 to early April to lose 90 pounds.

I was down exactly 80 lbs at the one year mark. And you just described my build.

not an unreasonable goal at all!!! in fact i have the same goal... i woudn't mind going a couple of pounds over but yea.. same goal and i WILL achieve it!!!
best of luck to you!!

Ok, that's all very encouraging I think if I think it's possible, I'll be more likely to work harder. Thanks, ladies!