September 2011 | Offbeat Bride

I get that this is a very twenty-first century only-for-people-who-are-online-a-lot problem, and a silly one at that. Why, at the end of a long-term relationship that really meant something, would your mind wander to your Facebook relationship status? I can't tell you, I just know that for many people it does, and the creepy-crawly, upside-down-stomach feeling that goes along with those thoughts isn't the best thing ever. So here's how to hide your relationship status, updates and all.

This photo is a testament to what can be done with spray paint, a teeny tiny budget, and sheer will. The bride thrifted her dress too. Check out what can be created with the barest of materials.

The tenth anniversary of 9/11 is upon us, so we've chosen a New York wedding to celebrate love and life flourishing despite the tragedies that may befall us. This couple didn't let a tornado take their venue from them in this budget garden and lounge party. Lots of crafting and thought went into this one.

I was doodling around over on HipsandCurves.com, and came across this look that so immediately screamed OFFBEAT HONEYMOON OUTFIT that I couldn't help but share.

I realize this isn't the sort of thing we normally feature here, but come on: seriously!?

I'm a HUGE fan of Los Angeles-based wedding planner Laura Guerrie. Laura is more than a sponsor, she's part of the Offbeat Bride family. Ariel turned to Laura to answer the "do you need a wedding planner" question, and she and I have not only worked together, but we also party together. Speaking of parties, why don't we revel in some of the OUTSTANDING offbeat weddings she's helped orchestrated — Star Wars cakes, Muppets, dinosaurs, and generous offbeat discounts await…

When some fossilized friends make their way to the ceremony, you're in for a Jurassic-sized party. This couple even had to hire a bounty hunter to protect their uber intricate Millennium Falcon cake. That's right, we've got Star Wars, dinosaurs, and the coolest mix of geek and chic this side of an ice age.

Cake toppers were popular in the Offbeat Flickr Pool. You'll also see a smidgen of parasols, tats, and a maypole too in this week's Monday Montage.

Offbeat Bride (both the book and the site) changed me a lot. I became more comfortable with who I am. I discovered fashions and subcultures that I had never known existed, but now love. I learned how to deal with stress, with family, with my own doubts. But because of this fabulous place, I also developed one of my biggest doubts about the wedding: was it going to be offbeat enough?