small wedding | Offbeat Bride

What do you need to get married? This couple says just Vegas, some friends, a little black dress, and a boot full o' booze! And I'm inclined to agree. In fact, I'm a bit envious of a whole night carousing in a pink Caddy, grabbing strangers for photos, and hitchin' rides in limos. Sign me up!

Sometimes couples are confronted with traditions they love and offbeat trends they love, and somehow have to meld it all into a cohesive celebration. These two did that and more. Take special note of the amazing DIY doily archway, the intricate centerpieces, and the tear-filled groom — *swoon.* Come for the lawn games, stay for the sentiment of the group poetry reading.

These two know the value of a little leg work in getting a deal for a budget wedding. And when you're trying to keep family, friends, and especially vegetarians fed and happy, it's no mean feat. But thankfully, they found a restaurant willing to make a deal and crafted a small wedding with emphasis on being together and sharing in the day. It's just one of those awesome weddings we are loving for simple weddings week.

These two were not getting married — no way, no how. Except then they did, which made the whole shebang offbeat in itself. On top of that, they opted for a casual, outdoor ceremony with some kick-ass barbecue afterwards from the local joint they love. It was simple, small, and perfect for these two, who exemplify our simple weddings week.

Day of the Dead details in a gorgeous outdoor venue plus Halloween masks means a double holiday-themed wedding in Texas. The bride almost had a dress tragedy, but you'd never know it from the way her red gown looks. The bride also collects Mexican art and her love shows in all the DIY elements.

Two months to plan and catering-phobic? Now there's a challenge. But this pair came up with a plan and managed to get amazing pasta and NOM-worthy desserts to their guests' tummies. They also learned a hard lesson that combining flowers and mini-fridge freezers spells flower disaster. But trust me, none of that made this tiny affair any less awesome.

Oh, the trials of the wedding guest list. Especially if you're throwing a smaller wedding, dealing with frustrations from family and friends who aren't invited to your wedding can be grueling. I wrote about this in my book — dealing with your wedding's guest list can make you feel like a big mean club bouncer, deciding who's in and who's out of the VIP line.

While there's no way to make everyone happy, I do believe that there are a few key phrases you can use to let uninvited guests to that you love them, you SO appreciate their interest, but no: they're still not invited. Below, I've wrassled up ten of my favorite copy 'n' paste guest list rejection responses.

It's not a "wedding," folks, it's merely "The Party," set in a teepee in a London back garden! This bride had her heart set on a polka dot retro dress, but she went classic for a mother's love. Total sweetness found within.