Weddings…it’s what we start dreaming about as young girls but when the day comes, what is it that you really want? A big wedding? An intimate wedding? I thought I knew but once you start researching and pricing out venues, I started to reevaluate what I really wanted. After giving myself a reality check…is it really practical to get married at the Ritz Carlton in Laguna Beach? A few come to Jesus conversations, some more researching and talking through options, I (I mean we) decided on the Historic DeKalb Courthouse. With the marble walls, terrazzo floors and beautiful arched windows, I knew it’d be the perfect place.

It was an easy decision once we sat down and figured out what we really wanted and what was important to us. I knew I wanted a small intimate ceremony. I wanted pretty pictures that captured the moment so I could look back on this day forever. I wanted an intimate setting filled with loved ones and just our family. I wanted to keep it fun so it wouldn’t feel stuffy. I definitely didn’t want to go the traditional route. I also didn’t want to spend a ton of money or have the stress of planning a wedding. I simply wanted to enjoy every second of my wedding day. So we skipped the big wedding and opted for a nice honeymoon. We loved the idea of just throwing a party with family and friends so we chose to do that instead.

I will say, for anyone struggling with the decision to elope or have a courthouse wedding versus having a big wedding, I don’t regret this decision at all. The day was perfect, even if we were under a tornado watch. It was carefree, casual, and exactly how I pictured it. We were able to take our time taking pictures and I loved not having to rush through those special moments.  It was such an amazing day. One that I know we will never forget.  Obviously the main benefit of having an intimate wedding like this is that we were able to do it pretty cost efficiently without giving up details that we wanted.

So to all the brides out there, my advice is to do what makes you happy, whatever that may be, when it comes to planning your wedding!

Here are some of my favorite moments

I loved getting married at the Historic DeKalb courthouse. If you’re looking for an affordable, gorgeous venue in Atlanta, this is definitely a spot you should check out.

Details:

Venue: Historic DeKalb Courthouse
Photography: Abby Waller Photography
Hair & Makeup: Katherine Riddick
Flowers: Flowers From Us (ask for Sid!)
Grooms Ring: RUSTIC For MEN
Invitations: Splash of Silver
Hanger: Redd Press Shop
Robe & Mrs Shirt: Mod Party
Full tulle skirt: Welcome to Royalty