So, I've been married twice. The first time was with the whole big family to-do, white dress, etc. It was a challenge to plan, and we ended up with even my Great Aunts and Uncles in attendance, since they all had opinions to share. It was a nice day, but the stress was brutal, and apparently, it didn't do much for the marriage either .

When I married DH, we truly eloped. We had been engaged for a couple of months, and we both knew when and where, but didn't tell anyone beforehand. We were married in our town on a Friday, and went to the Cape for the weekend. It was glorious - no stress, just us doing what we enjoyed - riding, walking on the beach and enjoying our first days as husband and wife. When we got home from the weekend, we called our families to let them know. They were all happy for us, although mom was disappointed she wasn't going to get a new dress .

A wise friend of mine, after one failed marriage, has said that our focus should not be on the wedding, but on the marriage. Words of wisdom.

So, I guess you can see where I am leaning here. Ultimately, as others have said, you need to do what makes you and Geoff happy. I just wanted to give you perspective based on my experience. I have no regrets about eloping what-so-ever. But, that's what worked for me.

Best wishes to you and Geoff, whatever you decide!

SheFly