Courthouse

Totally ok and totally normal!

Thanks. I really needed to hear that it’s ok and normal.

Yup, this is super common for courthouse weddings so it’s definitely normal and it’s absolutely okay, it’s nice that you’re able to host something after the wedding.

Completely normal, but I'm not sure you're going to save much - the expensive part is the reception, not the ceremony!

Yes it is. I’m having trouble with my fall colors and decorations. I don’t know how courthouse wedding works like what can I or not do/bring. I still have til next sept to plan.

View Quoted Comment I never thought about that. What about diy the decorations for the reception?

Even diy-ing your decorations (and going minimalist) your reception in where you spend the money. Catering is expensive, you'll need a venue, chairs, tableware, plus glassware, beverages (and alcohol is expensive too), and on and on

Darling whatever you choose to do is normal. No one's wedding is the same so the way your choosing to do it is completely great. In order to cut your budget it would say try DIY, use venues for your reception such as a hall, and you can look for low cost caters such as Olive Garden, many BBQ places, pizza, etc whatever your preference. But congrats love and I happy planning.

View Quoted Comment I found a venue that charges by the hour and provides tables n chairs. I’m not buying alcohol.

That will decrease your costs for sure. Food is still going to be your number one cost (limiting guest list and Italian, Mexican, or BBQ will offset that cost).

I performed a ceremony for friends that were originally going to the courthouse but decided on a private ceremony in a park nearby and zero guests. The three of us went for a drink after and our large group of friends found out later after family had been notified. It is normal to make your wedding the way you want it or the way your finances dictate. You can always have a party later if circumstance improve, but the ceremony is the important part. Enjoy your day and make it special for you and your future spouse.

That's perfectly fine. My ex husband and I did courthouse and then went to Dave and busters afterward. It was just us, my parents and a close friend.

I think that's fine. I've a friend who had eloped and then had a reception only six months later

Many people do it it’s what you and you FH want that day it’s up to you and yes it can be more cost effective