I finally figured out the answer. The key is to use the javascript submit() function. Rather than use an input type submit, I use just a regular button. Then, after javascript validates the form and the form has the proper data, I used the submit function. Here is my code below. If anyone is curious, feel free to ask me about it.
function formValidate(){
//define form1 as registration form
form1 = document.forms['_register1'];
var submission = true;
//make sure email address is not blank
if (form1.elements['email'].value == 'Type Your Email Address Here') {
alert('Please enter your email address.');
form1.elements['email'].focus();
var submission = false;
}
//submit form if data is good
if(submission != false){
form1.submit();
}
}
And here is the html:
<input type="text" value="Type Your Email Address Here" name="email" title="Enter email" />
<input type="button" value="SIGN UP!" onclick="formValidation();" />