On Eloping

I often feel the need to justify my decisions, mostly because they're a little (read: a lot) different than what my family is used to.  I was the first one to move out of state.  I wear all black, generally.  I am passionately liberal.  I support the arts.  It's quite a change from my conservative family's idea of what I should be doing.  However, this elopement is something I am for 100%.  I read this today and had an "A Ha!" moment.

I don't have to be the typical cupcake dress, tiara wearing bride with spiral curls and "natural" makeup.  I don't have to spend thousands on a stupid DJ that plays horrible remixes and club music.  No thanks.

I am going to elope.
I am going to wear a classic silk dress.
My hair is going to be kind of messy.
My makeup is going to be va-va-voom.
I am not wearing a garter belt.
I am not having a bouquet toss.
I am not having horrible, overpriced food.
I am not having a giant wedding just to show off.
I am not doing anything to make anyone happy, except Chris and myself.

This is our day and we're doing it our way. 

Going Aussie!

Change of plans.

We want to elope.

And you know what?

That's what we're doing!

 

I love that our Marriage Form has little kangaroos on it!

So why did we change our minds and our plans?

I've never dreamed of a perfect wedding with a big white dress and all the frills.  Why waste time and money if I don't even want it?  I thought it was the proper thing to do, but it turns out that everyone just wants me to be happy.

Chris and I both thought it was romantic to just jet away, recite our vows, and be with each other for this momentous occasion.

Why Australia?

We were planning on honeymooning there anyways.  They have surf & turf experiences, great fashion, and you can't forget that great accent!  Luckily we have some friends there, so hopefully we'll get to catch up with them as well.

Centerpieces

Lately, I've gotten the DIY bug in a big way.  I want to make everything!  I've tried to have some focus, really forcing myself to go crazy about centerpieces.  I've been scouring craft sites and the good old Martha Stewart dot com.  I've come to three different ideas. Can you help me choose?

Birch covered pots

I don't know what I would do with these yet, but I love the natural feel of them.  I'm thinking maybe I could add some sort of foliage or flora.  I was also hoping to incorporate coffee beans since Chris and I met at his coffee shop.  Ideas?

Manzanita Branch

I love the idea of using Manzanita branches.  They are also earthy and beachy.  They are relatively inexpensive, but since they aren't "contained," I'm not sure how to work with them.  Again, ideas?

Milkglass Pieces

What do you think about milkglass centerpieces? I love the vintage feel of them and the variation they could bring.  I could easily thrift them and come up with unique looks for each tables.  I also love the giant ranunculus flowers, but don't we all.

What do you think I should go with?