My partner has always wanted the whole big wedding in a nice hotel, with pretty much everyone we know plus children invited all day and night.
I've always wanted to run off and do it on our own or possibly have a small, family only child free ceremony (except for our own children). I have a close member of my family who I can't not invite who is basically a functioning alcoholic who i'd never in a million years want near a party, divorced parents who barely tolerate each other and his lot can be as bad in other ways. Plus family at a party takes away our childcare options.
So, a compromise needs to be reached!
Opinions on this suggestion please. We will be paying for it all ourselves with the exception of 5k that my Dad has put aside for me to use for a wedding but he won't give a monkeys what we do as long as I'm happy.
Family only legal ceremony to include all members of both families and all children (approx 30 people) followed by a really lovely quiet meal all finished by early evening one day.
Maybe the following weekend (or within a couple of weeks) hire a venue and throw big evening party for friends with buffet/dj etc. Probably 50 adults. No family, no children (at all), just basically a party with our friends to celebrate getting married. No speeches, no presents required just turn up and have a good time.
Thoughts?