Heather & Jacob’s 1930s inspired, outdoor, vegetarian, lunch-time wedding

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Picture 1 alternative wedding ideas from Offbeat Wed (formerly Offbeat Bride)The offbeat bride: Heather, Publicist and Fashion Historian (and OBT member “HeatherVaughan“)

Her offbeat partner: Jacob, Geologist (artist and DJ)

Location & date of wedding: Alvarado Park, Richmond, CA — 09/19/2009

What made our wedding offbeat: We definitely had an unusual theme — Vintage 1930s (a la “The Thin Man” series), But we also had an all-vegetarian lunch-time reception outdoors in a park with no electricity — meaning we weren't going to do some things that weren't as important to us, like dancing late into the night (we had to be out by six). We tried to focus on what WAS important to us which, as it turned out, was spending as much time with the family and friends present as possible. The people made it offbeat — their attitudes and attire included!

3988852762 275b3f9400 m alternative wedding ideas from Offbeat Wed (formerly Offbeat Bride)We tried our best to do as much ourselves, or with the help of friends, as possible. Why? Because we were doing one thing very traditionally — hiring a caterer. And that eats up your budget for most other things. But food is important to us, especially having delicious vegetarian food.

My dress was entirely unique and very much me, but it also meant adjusting some expectations.

The ceremony was completely unique, with a few traditional elements. We didn't have any bridesmaids or groomsmen (but instead had over twenty “ambassadors of love”). We cheered for the California Golden Bears (who were playing that day) in the middle of our ceremony. We had a ring-warming pre-ceremony and acknowledged it during the ceremony; and we said different vows to each other, because we are after all individuals.

3988854148 287c15b44b m alternative wedding ideas from Offbeat Wed (formerly Offbeat Bride)Our biggest challenge: My biggest challenge was figuring out how to deal with the things for which I didn't have any inspiration — like centerpieces or flower arranging. Don't get me wrong, I knew the “feeling” I wanted, but I had no idea how to convey those feelings. As it turned out, all I had to do was meet with or talk to my ambassadors who had those skills, and magically the problem would get solved (loved my flower and my centerpieces!).

The other major challenge was dealing with last minute changes. Specifically, my grandmother fell and broke her arm a week before the wedding and we had to scramble to find someone to video the wedding so she could see it the next day. As luck would have it, one of our guests came through for us and did a beautiful job.

Vaughan-Fink185

My favorite moment: Crying during the second-to-last line of my vows, and hearing everyone start to cry along with me. The emotion of that moment was just so strong.

3988853292 c1919d94a2 m alternative wedding ideas from Offbeat Wed (formerly Offbeat Bride)My offbeat advice: If you feel you can trust your caterer, let them lead you through some things. Especially if they have over twenty years experience (like ours did). These folks are professionals and will have good advice for you.

Leave some things open-ended and unplanned — this allows for some flexibility if things need to change. We didn't plan exactly where everything was going to be set up and just gave our Day-Of Coordinator the ability to adjust as needed.

Oh yeah… GET A DAY-OF COORDINATOR! They so rule, and really allow you to focus on having a good time. I just asked a very good, responsible family friend to do it and she was great!

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Comments on Heather & Jacob’s 1930s inspired, outdoor, vegetarian, lunch-time wedding

  1. i love how everyone got into the 1930's theme and looked fancy even in casual 1930's attire! ooovintagehats!!

  2. Thank you for sharing. I am honored to have been an ambassador of love at the event, and thrilled to see it again and be able to relive the beauty of that day. Your wedding was PERFECT for you too. 🙂

  3. I think it just shows a trip to New York after the wedding photos.

    Beautiful dress! Love the theme. Looks like a lot of guests got dolled up for it too. Very cool.

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