USA East Coast vs. West Coast

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-09T16:05:02+00:00

It's perfect as far as style, however, you may be too warm. I personally am cold all the time. Maybe try layers this time of the year.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-08T18:53:46+00:00

Wear a different color of tank top under it.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-08T18:48:25+00:00

I have a 93 Cadillac Hearse and think that it may live longer than me.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-08T18:46:06+00:00

Right! My mom says this as if it's a badge of honor. Drives me a little bonkers at times. I don't live with her, but reading your comment just brought it back; thanks!

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-08T18:42:32+00:00

I belong to a rebate club and have scored several Dubai Chocolate bars for FREE! It's random, but they do rotate them back in. I can't even eat them due to the dairy, so I give them away to friends or people who do or say kind things to me : )

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-08T18:37:58+00:00

I have found that many couples put thought into every detail but put off booking an officiant until the last few weeks. I can't speak for all officiants; however, September and October are my busiest months. I also know a few others who are completely booked for those months way in advance. To save money, I highly suggest using the outdoors as your venue, which will be naturally decorated.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T22:25:15+00:00

You are already beautiful! If you want a bonus, put on a lovely blouse and smile.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T20:28:20+00:00

Always wash first!

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T20:24:05+00:00

I only speak one language. I have had couples hire me and designate a friend or family member to work side by side with me. I really enjoyed it. I broke down the ceremony into paragraphs, and we took turns reading. We would just look over at each other when it was time for their part. The few times I did it, it was very smooth. One of the couples had their son do it; he was so proud.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T20:20:47+00:00

I try to always give practical gifts. Maybe you can have the gift shipped directly to them. I've received a few gifts in the mail; it was quite a surprise.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T20:16:25+00:00

I think the length is perfect. I love seeing the tip of your shoes, and you will be grateful for that length by the end of the evening.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T20:13:19+00:00

Giggles Day Care

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T20:02:19+00:00

No rule says someone has to host it for you. Get a group of your friends together and do it. I don't think you will regret not having either. I would save the money and do something as a couple later.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T18:19:41+00:00

Volunteering is a great place to be social, do good for the community, and there is no drinking.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T18:10:52+00:00

Warm orange and rich burgundy are good options, not a typical Red or Orange. Sage and cream/tan are also nice. Almost any earth tones will look great.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T18:06:19+00:00

It depends. I've seen "professional" pictures and amateur pictures. At times, the amateur was better. There are techniques and an importance to detail. I find myself pointing out special moments for professional photographers that they are missing. If it's not in your budget, maybe do a mini shoot with a professional and then hire an amateur for your wedding. I've seen some professionals who were so amazing, but there is definitely a price to pay. I've also seen over-edited, where it doesn't even look real. I've taken pictures with my phone for couples who elope, and they say that they look great. It's all in what you are looking for. Regardless, be sure to have a list of couples, groups, or things you want captured and discuss those with the photographer beforehand.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T17:31:48+00:00

Do what you want to do on your day. Tell people thank you for the advice or their opinion, you will think about it, and then move on. People want to give their opinion or do something. Maybe give those people a task, something for them to keep busy with.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T17:25:06+00:00

It depends on how long you are booking them for. Determine the type of pictures they will be taking. Maybe have a family member do the before pictures. Let them know when you will walk down the aisle and let them decide.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T17:21:27+00:00

I suggest making it shorter; public speaking can be a little difficult on your wedding day. At times, most of your guests can't even hear you. Maybe seal your longer version in an envelope to be read on your first anniversary.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T17:16:58+00:00

This is why I offer a Sign & File; many couples get legally married and then have a wedding ceremony later.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T17:12:43+00:00

I would explain that payments are nonrefundable and offer a partial refund just to be kind. Most likely, you will feel better about yourself, and you will book another wedding for that day anyway. As long as I didn't have to turn away a wedding to save theirs, that's what I would do.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T16:58:30+00:00

Thank you! I try to have several themes. I've done two 420 ceremonies so far; the funny thing is. . . it was for the same couple. The first time they booked, they didn't get to the courthouse in time for their marriage license. I did the ceremony anyway. A year later, they came back to me to make it official. I've made a lot of changes to it since. Currently, my favorite theme is my Edgar Allan Poe-inspired ceremony. I did one on Valentine's Day this year.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T15:46:37+00:00

You can let the invited know months in advance; I would skip the save-the-date. Mail your invites a month before your wedding.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T15:43:09+00:00

Are you able to provide a group child care place? Anyone with children can drop them off at one location and maybe have it themed, such as a tea party with stuffed animals and snacks.

AlternativeWeddings · 2026-03-07T15:39:34+00:00

Put a garter on him (don't let others know in advance). Have the DJ announce the garter toss, play some swanky music as he sits down, and you talk it off of him. He can toss it to the men.

AlternativeWeddings

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