[honeychile]

I couldn't justify spending much more than $1k, if I was already paying off loans, or deeply in debt. I think some of the wedding shows on television right now are really showing some bad values (fyi - I made a typo at first and said sowing - how appropriate!).

There are so many ways to have a nice wedding and reception if you're willing to think it out and possibly compromise. And I'm not talking cash bars or cheez wiz on crackers. I've been to a wedding where they included every vendor from the bride's & groom's attire to each favor/dinner selection/wedding cake on an Advertising Page in the program (super tacky, IMHO, but points on creativity). One of the last weddings I attended was in a major country club in major landmark with two bands, major table decorations, everything gorgeous - but since it was held on a Friday, everything but the bride's dress was almost half price.

Think it out, and don't be so completely sold on one idea. My own ideas have changed several times over the years - given the choice between a dream wedding and a dream house, I'll take the house.