Part of me still really wants the big wedding that we planned for over 3 of our 9 years together. We never got to have a first dance. Our bridal party all purchased outfits they never got to wear. I made all these bouquets and boutonnieres that no one ever seen. We had to have one of our friends step in as officiant because our officiant was 81 and only had 1 functioning lung and we knew he couldn't risk a covid exposure. We've paid for my husband's tux rental for his purple tuxedo that he was dying to wear. I still want to wear my wedding dress, for more than 5 minutes, and really get to feel like a bride, ya know?
Now for all my reasons not to reschedule. It almost feels like such a waste to have another wedding. We are married, our goal was achieved. I have had multiple friends/family members tell me that they likely won't feel comfortable in large groups for a long time, like years. The man who was supposed to officiate, that has been like the grandpa I never had, who was so excited to at the very least do our vow renewal, contracted covid and died in December. We are wanting to buy a house and start a family within the year, so the money for the big reception seems like a waste.
I have been so conflicted I have literally lost nights of sleep to tears because the minute I think I have made a decision, I change my mind again. But recently we began discussing another idea. We want to go to St Louis (about 1.5 hours from us) with whoever wants to join us. Wedding party and close friends will be invited, but no one will be expected. I want to rent an Air B&B or something, go downtown to take pictures, have dinner and hit the bars. Something fun to run around in our attire, and really celebrate finally getting married. We've discussed it with most of our friends and they all think it sounds fun.
Has anyone done something like this? Just taken a group of people and had a fun trip instead of a reception?With all that said, does anyone have any suggestions for places for our group to stay? Probably looking between 10 and 20 people. Ideas of places to have dinner, or bars to hit up? I am probably just going to bring my professional camera and take our own shots, but if any one knows of a pro photographer in the STL area that wouldn't cost an arm for something like this, feel free to drop their info!
Mostly I am putting all this out there so that if any other bride is looking for an alternative or a way to make fun wedding memories, here is another idea for you!