Sweet Simple Wedding Tips

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Weddings weren't always lavish $35,000 affairs. And believe it or not, the couples were just as happy, the guests partied just as hard, and the celebrations were just as fun. I hope that with today's economy couples will return to the simple wedding- where the focus is on tender moments, personal touches and being fiscally responsible instead of the tradition of outdoing each other, impressing parent's friends and showing off as much glam as possible. Sometimes I wonder how we ended up there anyhow.

Here are a few tips to help keep your wedding sweet, simple, wonderful, yet affordable.

Keep the guest list small. When was the last time you wanted to hang out with 200 people you hardly know? Having a large guest list doesn't increase the party atmosphere...think quality over quantity. It's a sure thing that some people will be put out by not being on your list of 75 people, but they would have probably been the same person who was sitting in the corner complaining that your napkins and linens didn't match anyhow.

The date and time matter. Plan the reception for off hours and days. If you'll be having an intimate affair with only your closest friends and family, plan the reception on a Sunday and serve cocktails instead of a full meal. That means a 4:00 - 7:00 reception would be perfect and your guests will still be able to get home at a decent hour.

Try a venue outside the box. If you have a favorite restaurant, why not book your reception there? It doesn't have to be the Hilton...and then you can share your favorite meal with those you cherish. Or maybe a friend's house. My husband and I were married in a friend's backyard and it was fabulous. And with our early departure at 6:30 pm, we didn't have to rent lights or tents. Parks, the beach and even a historic landmark would work.

Keep it simple. Let your maids wear dresses they already own. Create a handmade centerpieces from simple ideas such as potted plants (which nicely double as favors) or decorate with a bunch of bright Japanese lanterns. Instead of a 15 layer wedding cake, serve your favorite cheesecake. It's personal, it's thinking outside of the box, and it puts the focus of your wedding on you and your fiance instead of on your budget and fussy details.

Images courtesy of Mel Barlow Photography