I watched it on VHS and you simply can not tell. However, I'm betting that it's not a badge (even though it really does look like one) simply because the actress isn't a member of Phi Mu (the most famous actress we have is Mary Wickes, Sister Mary Lazarus from Sister Act) and even for a movie would most likely not be allowed to don the badge (even if the real life character was indeed a member). But that's an assumption.

I noticed for the first time that before she leaves for the honeymoon there is a paddle in her room.

I was going to say everytime i see this movie it makes me think Pi Mu!

I was just watching it again for the umpteenth time today on OXygen and in the bedroom scene with Sally Fields, Shelby is wearing a badge on her pink dress, and as for the background....the flower on the wall seemed to look like a rose instead of a carnation. Above the composite was a bid day picture as well. I do love verizon Fios I can rewind and pause and examine!!!!!!!!!!!

I thought I had heard somewhere that nationals made julia roberts like an honorary phi mu so that she could wear the badge for the movie..... am i wrong? anyone else heard this or can confirm it?

I also heard this, but it wasn't in my Phi Manual and I'd assume that something like that would be along with the parts mentioning Stonewall Jackson and Robert E. Lee as honorary Philomatheans. If it was true, it'd be important and put into the manual, no (we don't have very many "famous" members) so why leave her out?

Plus, I've never had any of my sisters who have been to HQ mention seeing any pictures of Julia there or any information regarding the movie, but I'll ask to be sure as my chapter's current Pres. has been multiple times.

NOT TRUE. She is not a member, not an honorary member.