[AKA_Monet]

I did it too... I got married legally on May 16, 2003 and had a "religious ceremony" (according to Emily Post) on July 2, 2003 where my parents and his parents all attended with a few friends. The whole shebang cost ~$8K...

IDK where you reside, but if you are in a "morally conservative community", come up with a crazy story as to why you all did a civil ceremony... Or hayle, tell the truth--your future hubby wanted more pay and protection with next of kin--what's wrong with that? And the folks on the west coast like California and elsewhere probably wouldn't have a problem with your explanation--not that you all even need it in the first place.

But, wow, did my MIL in FL and middle of GA need some crazy explanation for all her friends. She just had no clue as to what to say to people!!! We did not give her any thoughts and I paid a high price for that lunacy--she was harsh... We are on better terms now--especially after all the shotgun wedding and baby rumors died down--I gained weight due to other circumstances... And my husband and I have just made 5 years!!!

So, I'd say, if your future hunnybun is gonna be here in September, start working on the marriage license with a nice brunch dinner, etc. and 1-2 home movie picture takerers... And the best thing you can do is start reading "marriage enrichment" materials from Dr. Smalley and Dr. Chapman...