Please HELP!!!

[Phoenix]

I am getting married in August. I had everything ready. The hall and DJ were booked, the preacher was set. There wasn't a detail I left unturned. Unfortunately, right after I had started sending invitations, my father told me he would not attend the wedding if my mother was there. I couldn't choose between my parents. So, my finacee and I decided to not have the ceremony and reception. Instead, we are going to the courthouse for a civil service and using the money for our wedding to go on a cruise for our honeymoon. My dilemma is the proper etiquette I should use. Instead of a formal ceremony and reception for other family members, we are going to have an informal reception at our house. And for the civil service, we have a few family members who are going to be present as witnesses. For those few, is it proper to go out to eat afterwards; and if so, what type of restaurant is proper. I don't want anyone to be uncomfortable but I also want to have my wedding and show off my dress to everyone, since I couldn't return it. Do you know any suggestions that might be useful? Please help me.

[Sharon Naylor]

It sounds like you're right on track with your plans as far as the informal reception for your werdding celebration, and you can plan any type of celebration for after your civil ceremony. Many people book small party rooms at restaurants, or go to an elegant hotel brunch, have something at home, or a catered lunch by a lake...really, there are no rules about what kind of celebration you plan after a civil ceremony. So you're free to choose your style, your way. As for the informal celebration at home, follow the latest trends and go with ease of serving, including setting up food stations in your house just as you would find at a ballroom.

If there's anything else I can help you with, just let me know!!

Sharon