The Offbeat Bride: Karen, graphic & web designer

Her Offbeat Partner: Peter, programmer extraordinaire

Location & date of wedding: Harvey West Park in Santa Cruz, California — 04-26-09

What made our wedding offbeat: We were married under the redwoods by my uncle, our first dance was to Mystery Science Theater 3000's "When Loving Lovers Love" (such a pitch-perfect parody song that several people didn't realize it was a joke), and the only white items anyone saw were the groom's tie and the cake frosting.

Continue reading "Karen & Peter's California Redwoods, Chocolate-Laden, Budget Wedding" →

I've spent the last two days scouring the 'net for a father/daughter dance for our wedding reception, and frankly, virtually every suggestion I've come across has a title that makes me throw up in my mouth a little like "Daddy's Little Girl" or "Butterfly Kisses."

I'm not opposed to sentimental songs but perhaps none with the bride=angel/child/doll theme I can't seem to get away from. He's a 60s/70s Classic/Southern rock kinda guy. There's gotta be something out there about years going by, getting older, moving on… I just can't seem to find it. This
is one of the few traditions we're actually keeping, so I'd like to find something right for us. —Sharon

Yeah, nothing like the creepy incest themes that seem to come up with father/daughter dances, hmm? That's part of why I skipped the tradition, but I do agree that with the right song it can be a nice moment. Here are a few non-icky song ideas:

• Loudon Wainwright's "Daughter"(hear it)
• 10,000 Manaics "How You've Grown" (hear it)
• Ben Folds' "Still Fighting It" (hear it)

If you're looking for even more, the playlist from WFUV's father's day show might give you some great ideas.

Offbeat brides: got any suggestions? Leave 'em in the comments!

PS: Extra bonus awesome points if you can carry off something like this.