And you're going to get it here.Yes, this is a place that will support you when you aren't wrong, but it is also a place that will give you a backhand when you're wrong. You, my dear, are wrong. We all have "ideal" weddings in our heads, but reality is often completely different. Life isn't about living up to ideals, it's about making practical, rational decisions about what is and isn't the best way to act. At least, that's what it should be. My FI and I are going to have a beautiful wedding on $5000, and frankly, that's all we need. There's so much emphasis put on the extravaganza of a wedding, but at the end of the day, why? Why do we need to have $400 flower arrangements at every table? Why do we need a $5000 gown? To impress other people? Most times, I feel like that's what it's about. "Look at me! I spent a ton of money on a party!" Whoopdee doo. I'd rather focus on the future of my marriage then pour a ton of money into something that lasts only one day. Financial distress is the number one cause of divorce in the US. Why would I undermine my future to throw that party? No thanks. Think about it long and hard before you decide what you should and shouldn't do for this party. If you decide to take out a loan, that's certainly your prerogative, but also think about how long you'll be paying that off, long after the memories of the day have faded away. I, for one, would resent that money forever.