have a simple yet memorable wedding

That would get me excited, picturing myself in whatever fabulous outfit I find… wanting all my loved ones to see me in it and adore me.

Every time I think about it, it seems so complicated and overwhelming, and worst of all: EXPENSIVE! Then I get into a bad mood and feel hopeless and don’t do anything at all. Of course we could just go to the justice of the peace and forget the rest of it, but I think it would mean a lot to me to share this moment in my life with my loved ones.

I never went to prom in high school either (or any formal dance), and I actually do sometimes look back and regret, no matter how stupid and shallow and not-a-big-deal it is, that that is an experience I’ll never have in life. I don’t want to regret never having a wedding too!

I do have money saved up, but it’s saved for other things like a new car and a down payment on a house. I guess I can see us spending maybe $5,000 at the absolute most. But everyone I know who says they really skimped and had a budget wedding then tells me they put $10,000 on their credit cards to make it happen. Yikes! What a horrible way to start your life together—in debt! Good for you Kathryn, spending only $2,000.

Also I am afraid of how much time and energy it’s going to take to plan something. I know, I know. I need to think about all of the positive things about the whole thing so I am willing to work towards that dream and invest my time and money in it.

I got married in March 2005 in my garden. I had an elegant outfit and flowers. My brother and sister-in-law attended. So did one of my cats! The day before, my sis-in-law and I got manicures and pedicures, then went to a spa for a bath, massage, and facial. The ceremony was meaningful and special; the minister made it so. We had a lovely, luxurious dinner after. All told, we probably spent no more than $2000. The money we didn’t spend will be used toward much-wanted things—a house, our child’s education, vacations, etc. I would do it over again exactly the same way.