It's Good to Know We're Not Alone

As a Bust magazine lover, i was excited to see the latest issue has an article (too bad it's just one measley article!) entitled the 'indie bride guide.' I guess that's me, right? Though, i don't even want to be called a bride, i know my celebration is more indie than traditional. And, while i have been known to buy a couple of bride mags (for the hair styles only i swear!) this is a great boost to my decision because i know i'm not alone in my 'crazy ideals.'

I have found some great resources over the last few months of prep time, and this Bust article shares some great ideas and info about where rituals come from. Did you know that the bouquet of flowers represents fertility and that's way a bride carries them, and then throws them to her single (aka virginal) friends? And, that the veil represents the hymen that will be opened (unveiled) by her new husband. Yikes! Symbolism is a weird thing. The article also shares with the reader a yet-to-be published book, but i am sad to say my celebration will be over by the time it comes out (December 2006). The author does have a fantastic website all about her big day, though.

Having these resources is great because it shows we're not alone in wanting a special, unique, non-conformist, non-traditional gala wedding. Not that i'm saying they're wrong, necessarily, but they're not for everyone.So, if you're thinking of doing something like this, here are some places to go to for help. Some may not be all that 'outside the box,' but they've all been helpful and inspiring!

Anti-Guide Guide: Tying the Knot Outside the Box

Bust Magazine June/July 2006 - Here Comes the Indie Bride article

How to Have the Wedding You Want: Not the One Everybody Else Wants You to Have

I Do but I Don't: Walking Down the Aisle Without Losing Your Head

IndieBride - a great website with ideas, resources, and reassurance that you're not crazy for not wanting to wear white!

Offbeat Bride: Taffeta-Free Alternatives for Non-Tradional Brides - out December 2006 but looks like a great resource!

ReadyMade Magazine Issue Feb/March 2006: The Love Issue - 69 Ways to Woo

And a gift from my mom: Lies at the Alter: The Truth About Great Marriages - an Oprah bookclub like book (need i saw more?)