Okay, people, help me plan my wedding. We live outside of Philadelphia in the 610 area code, if you're in the area and have any suggestions.

Honestly, though, I'd be grateful for anyone's ideas or suggestions, or tell me about your own unorthodox/interesting/second/beautiful wedding, or one that you went to.

-- Anonymous, January 15, 2002

Answers

Melissa,

Have you considered a destination wedding? (You and the "wedding party" go on a trip that combines the ceremony and honeymoon.)

Lisa

-- Anonymous, January 16, 2002

Well, I already told you a bit about my aunt's second wedding at Xeney.net, but I had a few more things to add. First of all, I'm sure you already know this, but theknot.com is an excellent resource. I'm fairly sure they have a section devoted to second weddings, and there are message boards there as well.

Some friends of ours rented out a local theater (it used to be a church and was converted into a small theater). It had stained glass windows and was absolutely beautiful. They had some friends of theirs, who are classical musicians, set up on the stage. The musicians played pre-wedding music and then played the music as the bride walked down the aisle. The way the space was set up, there we no permanent fixtures so folding chairs were set up for the guests, with an "aisle" set up between groups of chairs.

The bride's mother made the dress, which was made out of this silver webbing-type material over a simple slipdress. A friend made the wedding cakes (four round cakes of different flavors, decorated very simply with fresh flowers). The flowers were purchased cheaply and the bride's friend arranged them into bouquets.

The reception was held at the couple's house. Friends were responsible for the food and drinks.

It was a very beautiful wedding, and cost them under $1000.

-- Anonymous, January 16, 2002

Melissa,

I've been looking at www.indiebride.com for some interesting alternatives to traditional weddings. There are a lot of great ideas, especially on the message board. Some of the ideas are also good in terms of cutting costs, which I know is important to you (and for Stephen and I, too!).

Best wishes,

Michelle

-- Anonymous, January 16, 2002

What about a Historical site? We got married at an outdoor historical museum. The church was an early 1800's white chapel, and we got married with just the wedding party (sister/his best friend) and immediate family - totaling 16 people. We had the reception in the same place, only in a restored barn with about 120 people, who came later - after we toured the park for pictures, etc.

There must be a lot of history in your area, and I'll bet a lot of them offer wedding services of some kind that you're not even aware of.

Quaint, original, and you could cover a lot of "ground".

-- Anonymous, January 16, 2002

Hey Melissa -

I too live in the 610 area code and I just got married June 9, 2001. Actually you and I briefly exchanged E-mail re: my wedding, I was the one looking for the flamenco guitarist and asked you if you knew of anyone. Yeah that's me! so, anyway I know it's tough to find a place that allows outside catering - have you checked out partyspace.com? For some reason, I think you're somewhere on the Main Line? I'm in Chester County, as was a majority of the places I visited, but if you're interested in coming out my way I can certainly give you specific places. An old time fave of mine is The Willows in Radnor.It was my first choice ( I've visited there many time pre-engagement), but I wanted outdoor with the option of indoor due to weather and unfortunately my guest list was too long - if it had rained everyone wouldn't have fit comfortably inside. Also, there's The Morris Arboretum!

-- Anonymous, January 16, 2002

(I hope this doesn't post 2xs - I got an error the 1st time)

I want to add an obvious tip - I chose my caterer and found a site that allowed this. He (my caterer) does not have a liqour license, so I had to provide my own. And it is cheaper...in Delaware. Just don't get caught.

Also - I told Jessie this too - we honeymooned in St John (USVI) and it was incredible. No crowds, no tourists, just clear blue ocean and clear sky and perfect beaches bliss. We stayed at: www.tradewindscottage.com and that view, from the deck is better in person. I have a photo of it permanently taped to my monitor so I can relive the magic. The woman who owns it is great, she lives in Mass. and was so helpful with planning everything (rental jeep etc.) I know everyone always thinks their honeymoon was the best, and it's sooo subjective. However, on most days we'd pack a cooler, take our snorkel gear and hike (or drive) to a beach, and it would be just the two of us all day. That to me, is vacation!

If you want more St John info (or to see a few digital photos, they're clean!) feel free to E-mail me.

Laura

-- Anonymous, January 16, 2002