Hi Ladies!
I'm recently engaged, but had been perfectly happy with a common law commitment. FI's priorities changed, so now we are wedding planning, but I've just never put any thought into what my wedding might look like, so I'm playing around with a few ideas and would like to bounce one off you. This isn't exactly etiquette related (I think that's what "NER" means, but I apologize if I'm wrong), but in reading the boards I am confident that this is the place to post for informed/experienced, honest insight.
I've seen a common theme in these boards about the importance of hosting guests properly. Considering that, and my aversion to a more tradtional ceremony where the bride is a focal point - I'm thinking about having a guest-centric wedding. Whatever our budget, most of the money would be applied to a great venue, food, music - basically the things that guests most directly experience. This would mean not really caring about my dress, centerpieces, qualifications of the officiant (a friend with a legal, online certification is fine), etc.
My question: Could this approach look half-hearted to guests, thereby undercutting my intent to spoil them and make them feel like an important part of the wedding. For example, if I wear a non-tradtional dress, might they feel like they may as well have attended a backyard bbq?
Happy to elaborate if need be, and I truly appreciate any insight you have to offer!