Wedding Plans & Honeymoons

[semiotic_pirate]

The wedding planning has begun. Eegads! I've started looking at articles/websites for ideas on backyard and at-home weddings. So far, the plan is to - as you can read - at the homestead.

I've already learned some important things from the websites I've perused so far. Definitely going to have to contact the rental company we used a few Thanksgivings ago. Also, I've got to stop at the recommended landscapers to start things from that side. If money permits, I'm thinking of putting in the shrubs in the back and only "decorating" the front area where the actual ceremony/reception will occur. Although I would consider the far back yard IF we could quickly block out the view of the neighbors and whatnot as it is fairly level there as well. The latter plan would require the removal of some trees, cleanup of leaves/twigs, and fresh plantings; whereas the prior would include tree trimming, cleanup of leaves/twigs, etc, and fresh plantings. Both areas are relatively level, but there is more to cover up and/or hide in the back... but the front area is pretty much over the septic tank. Opinions?

Anybody out there ever been to a morning wedding with a light brunch/lunch buffet? Was it nice? Anybody out there ever been to a really casual wedding? What was it like?

Really, I don't know where to go with this other than start at the beginning.

The honeymoon on the other hand. Planning that has been super easy. If you are a fan of theatre and of Wil the Shake... you would LOVE what I've got set up so far. Now. If there is any way I can get a bunch of cases of mead to sip from between the wedding and honeymoon. The first is happening in the beginning of June, the second is scheduled for the beginning of October. Why? It is easier to take time off of work that way -- and -- it is going to be easier to finance (theoretically) when planned as separate events.

So... Any advice on how to stay sane this year?

Oh. So. As an established couple that's been together eight years and bought a house together... Would it be acceptable to request cash to help pay for the event? We don't need/want to go the whole traditional registry route and I have been liking gift cards less and less as time goes on (it locks you into buying something at a specific store, etc). HELP!

Comments

[kriz1818.livejournal.com]

On staying sane: Don't freak out about it. Make lists, keep track of what needs to be done (and do it!), and don't panic.

On the yard choice: The shorter the distance that women wearing heels have to walk across grass from the parking, the better.

On gifts: I believe Miss Manners doesn't even approve of gift registries, so mentioning "cash only please" would be right out. And I tend to agree with her. I'd just try to tell as many people as possible that a registry would be pointless since you don't need any more "stuff."

Further comment: Consider having something extra during the picture-taking period, since there won't be travel time from ceremony to reception and people will be sitting around waiting. We had a three-piece band come in for about an hour to play for the guests during the pictures, which went over very well and wasn't hideously expensive.

[verrucaria.livejournal.com]

Presumably people should get the hint that you have just about all the appliances, etc., you need--and figure out that monetary gifts are more appropriate? Or they'll have the common sense to ask your parents? (I don't know how to actually express your wishes in a "proper" manner.)

[kadath.livejournal.com]

Asking for cash gifts is a massive faux pas.

We didn't have a registry and everyone just wrote us checks. People are pretty lazy and money takes no thought.

[bigbrotherinlaw.livejournal.com]

Our wedding was early afternoon (2p) which put our reception in the perfect time slot for an afternoon tea, which was held outdoors, no tent (rain plan was the church hall). We found a nearby french restaurant/caterer to do nice hors d'oeurves served buffet style. We also had a two or three piece string ensemble provide music.

We liked the way the event went. Aim to have a good time.

[govcampbell.livejournal.com]

Generally speaking, the grass is greener over the septic tank, so that might be a plus for the front. Especially if you get a dry spell right before the wedding.

[sparkindarkness.livejournal.com]

Wedding planning eats your life!

I took female relatives, dropped it on them and told them that there is anything pink, flower covered or twee I would ritually disembowel small children as part of my vows.

This? Was probably not the best tactic

[lexica510.livejournal.com]

One of the pieces of advice I remember from doing the research and planning ours was "avoid using the 'W' word." If you mention that something is for a wedding, you will likely get charged more. If you say it's for an afternoon outdoor luncheon — and manage to avoid any mention of weddings — you'll likely pay less.

Putting on a wedding is... interesting. And challenging. My mother was a theatre director and hated weddings because "a wedding is as much work as putting on a musical, but you only get one performance!"

When spiritualmonkey and I got married, we decided ahead of time that A) anything that was not done by noon on the day officially Did Not Matter; and B) as long as the two of us were legally married at the end of the day, we'd consider it a success. As we left for the hotel that evening, he looked at me and said, "That was great. Let's never do it again."

Congratulations, best wishes, and may you have many many years together in happiness and good health, surrounded by people you love who love you!

[polarbee.livejournal.com]

My wedding was pretty casual. It was just family in the local church and afterwards we all went out to the local chinese place (everybody knows everybody in that town) and they had added snow crab to the all you can eat buffet in our honor. I'm personally very partial to casual weddings. I will always remember my husband saying, "Woman, if you make this fancy I swear I will drag you to the courthouse and make it right with the church later."

Just have fun.