Maybe you guys can help me out! After pouring over numerous forums, and reading one agonizing post after another, I resorting to creating a post of my own.
After almost ten years together, my FH and I have decided to get married. We both agree that we really want a very small/private ceremony. Keep in mind that by small, I mean just him, I, and his son. We initially wanted to do that - and only that. After seeing how excited our friends and families were, we agreed to have a party following. Needless to say, this has started to grow larger than we expected. We are looking at about 150-200 people. Presently, our plan is to go to the court house for the ceremony on the Friday and the party will be the next day.
The reason for my post is that I am afraid of being "tacky" by having a private ceremony and then inviting everyone to a reception? I have found (and unfortunately already purchased) a gown that I absolutely love. Neither of us have ever been married, so this is still a pretty special event. I would like to feel special. I am just concerned that people will consider it rude or tasteless if I wear a gown, and they were unable to witness the ceremony. After spending so many years together, this is really a very personal thing to us. We would love for everyone to share in celebrating our marriage, but we still want to keep the ceremony itself private.
The reception will consist of food, alcohol, cake, music, dancing and such. Basically, a big ole party! I initially wanted to just wear a cocktail/party dress, but then opted for a gown. I do want to stand out in the crowd
Any advice, thoughts, opinions, comments? I would love to know different views on this.