Monday, September 26, 2011

MY ELOPEMENT STORY

If planning a wedding is driving you crazy and the thought of eloping has crossed your mind--read on. If a small, intimate event is more your speed, but you feel pressured by others to have a full blown wedding, follow your heart and join the club.

I know these social pressures well. After my mother threatened never to speak to me again if I eloped (I made the mistake of telling her I thought running away to Quebec and returning a married woman was impossibly romantic), I had to endure a 150-guest wedding where I didn't know half of the guests well enough to wish to share my special day with them. 



Second time around, my fiance and I, overwhelmed by the daunting task of planning an elaborate event while juggling two demanding careers and building our dream home ourselves, opted for an intimate affair.  We ran off to our favorite bed and breakfast and exchanged vows before two of our closest friends as witnesses.  A judge I worked for and loved celebrated our ceremony, which we wrote ourselves to reflect our love and the nature of our relationship. 



As we get ready to celebrate our fifth wedding anniversary, we have no regrets for having taken this path. There was no stress, no drama, and the memories of a beautiful ceremony by the warmth of a glowing fire live on.

Getting married is a very personal decision.  How to celebrate your union is something each couple should do based on your unique personal circumstances. Whatever your wedding style, I will share with you tips to keep you sane through your wedding planning and bring serenity and joy to the process.  If you are planning to elope or celebrate an intimate wedding, I will guide you through the challenges with style and ease. Stay tuned!