Get this... I was in Austin this weekend for my good friend's wedding. For those that are considering Heritage Oaks for wedding or reception - I should be able to post some pictures or link to the photographers site soon. Really lovely. Morgan got married at a church but took many formal photos at the Heritage Oaks. Morgan wanted AC and so few venues offer a nice big air conditioned room. But here is the story.... On Friday we all got text messages to show up at a park in Salado for a going away party of one of our friends. She just finished her masters from UT and took a job in California. The message simply said fun and casual going away brunch - Sunday 11 am, name of park, address and hope you can attend. Dress cool, it could be warm at the park. We also got a reminder Sunday morning. Since it was Labor Day weekend - I was not flying home until later in the day - so decided I could go. We all got there. Ann's fiance, James, was milling around chatting with everyone. The brides brother was playing some classic guitar music - which I was thinking... how nice is this! Then a Chaplin walks out and says - welcome to the wedding of Ann and James. No decorations, just rocks, trees and river in the back ground. Ann walked out from a car in a beautiful summer gown and we all stood around in shock as they exchanged their vows. A little over 60 people showed up. Then we walked to a local B&B for a wonderful brunch. They planned for 75 which was perfect. OK ladies just think about this. No fuss, no invitations, no save the date cards, no bridal party, no favors, no DJ, no worries... parents were in on it and they had a photographer there but not one other person knew. They gave us cards for their registry - in case we want to send a gift later. The sum total of the wedding was her dress, hair, photographer, her flowers and the most awesome bunch with champagne, blue moon and white wine served. I have been to lots of weddings and I can tell you nothing compared to the intimate and the most sincere wedding ever. Not a dry eye in the place... and oh by the way - total cost the bride told me was less than 3,000! Wedding and about 2 hours of a reception and they were off on their honeymoon. Why didn't I think of this!