Even before I was engaged, I’ve always thought I would be a pretty traditional bride. Now that I’m in full planning mode, I still consider myself pretty traditional with a few little twists in there.
A couple weeks ago, one of my bridesmaids and fellow bride-to-be Sarah asked if I would accompany her to a bridal meet-up. Sarah had heard of the meet-up through a wedding forum that’s been helping her with a lot of planning ideas. One of the girls on the forum decided to get all the Central Florida engaged ladies together to swap ideas.
The group was small but it was very interesting to hear about everyone else’s weddings. We met up at Shipyard Emporium in Winter Park where Sarah and I split a couple of appetizers: artichoke and poblano dip and conch fritters.
Beer was also needed to prevent me from clamming up in the midst of meeting new people.
The meet-up helped me to realize that there is really no one way that anyone should plan a wedding. Every bride has different tastes and different dreams of what constitutes the perfect wedding. I also realized that I am definitely a traditional bride in comparison to the girls I met.
Some non-traditional elements of the other girls’ weddings included:
- Pot luck style reception
- Non white wedding dresses
- No flowers
I think I’ve put a lot of unnecessary pressure on myself because I think things have to be a certain way, when in reality, every wedding should just be a reflection of the bride and groom.
In related news, our save the dates arrived! I’ve been furiously addressing them. I was really nervous about how they would turn out because I just designed it myself in Photoshop. Kevin and I wanted something simple to get the message across. They ended up turning out really cute. I’ll be sure to post a copy once our guests have had a chance to see them.
What non-traditional wedding elements appeal to you?
You’ve always gotta do what speaks to you. At the end of the day, it only matters that you and your new hubby are happy!
Do what you and Kevin want to do. The day is about celebrating the two of you. Do what makes both of you happy
I cannot wait to see your Save the Dates! I bet they are beautiful!
The best wedding day is the one that really reflects the bride and groom…which means making whatever choices you two want and owning it! Traditional, non-traditional…own it, Jessica!
So jealous that you got to go to Shipyard, btw. I’ve only been once and it was one of my all-time favorites!
We had kind of pot luck desserts? A lot of my friends baked cakes. It was a really fun way to involve them and made a really cool variety!!! I designed our invitation as well. It worked out although people complained about not being able to read the font. Haha.
I’m with Faith– I feel like your guests will appreciate that your wedding is original and reflects qualities of you & Kevin’s personalities and relationship. Can’t wait to see these homemade save the dates!
I can only imagine a pot luck reception with my family. Haha, that would not go over well at all! Can’t wait to see the Save the Dates!