Deciding to have a casual wedding

I never suspected myself a casual wedding kind of gal. I like to dress up and I like fine dining. However, I’ve been to a few weddings lately where I realized that the event just didn’t fit the couple. People often feel like they have to go the traditional route with tuxes, long bridesmaid gowns, a limo and a big cake with bridges and many layers.

That sort of event may fit the personality of some brides and grooms, but not all. If a formal wedding doesn’t fit your personality don’t feel pressured to have one. There are lots of alternative ideas that will make your affair more personal, unique and memorable.

Dressing the Groom

If your man never dresses up or doesn’t like the idea of wearing a tux, don’t make him wear one just because it’s your wedding day. Instead, discuss outfitting the groom and groomsmen in:

Photo by Kate Heller-Thomas.

• Suits
• Slacks and blazers and/or button down shirts
• Polos and khakis

It’s your day and your fiance’s day, so you should both feel comfortable.

Bridesmaid Dresses

Rather than asking your girls to drop $200 on a frilly bridesmaid dress that they likely won’t be able to wear again give them some alternatives:

• Ask them to wear a dress they already own that is in one of your colors.
• Have them buy their dresses at any pre-approved-by-you non-bridal store.
• Pick out a few dresses yourself at local boutiques.

Whatever your decision, the dresses do not have to be matchy-matchy they should just compliment one another in color and shape. And make sure that your bouquets will look good with each dress.

The Grand Exit

A lot of people are finding alternatives for their getaway car these days, so don’t feel like you have to rent an expensive limo. Choose a vehicle that goes with the theme of your day. You can rent or borrow things like:

Photo by Allison Osborn

• Charter buses
• Trolleys
• Horse-drawn carriages
• School buses
• RVs
• Old cars
• Party buses

Decide first whether you and your groom want to leave the ceremony with your wedding party and then find a vehicle or vehicles that will accommodate for your situation.

Dessert

And, finally, don’t invest in a big fancy cake with multiple layers and fondant if you’re not a big cake person. Instead, buy just enough wedding cake to get a good photo op and then bring out sheet cake or some alternative for your guests. You can serve things like:

Photo byClever Cupcakes

• Cupcakes
• Fruit and yogurt parfaits
• Cookies
• Pie
• Cupcake lollipops
• Candy

You can serve these alternatives along with a great tasting, but not sky-high wedding cake or you can opt to serve them instead of wedding cake. Just remember that it is your day, so serve desserts that you and your groom like. Don’t feel pressured to spend money on a big, expensive wedding cake just because that’s what you think you have to do.

When choosing your wedding attire, food and accessories just remember that this is your day, no one else’s. You should never forgo something you want for a traditional selection unless you prefer the traditional item. Find ways to make your wedding unique and personal to your own style. Your guests will find it more memorable and you and your groom will feel more comfortable if you stay true to yourself.