Weekend Wedding

There's nothing like going to a wedding you truly believe in. This last weekend I traveled to isolated Oregon for a campground wedding for my good buddy from high school. The groom had arranged for my transport down there with one of his friends, and the five hour trip flew by as we talked about the things you're never supposed to talk about the first time you meet someone (war, politics, religion, life philosophy).

From a frugal and green stand point the wedding was awesome. They spent limited funds on renting the location, the wedding was small and intimate. The cake was delicious and made by a coworker of the bride. The photographer was a friend of the groom. The food was catered but no leftovers remained. Half the beer was home brewed. Decorations were minimal. Dress was casual. And as much as possible was recycled.

The females spent the first night in the couple's home with the bride, while the males all bonded at the uncle of the groom's place. The second night was spent with a small group of us camping at the wedding site. It was great to reconnect with a fun group from high school and to get away from the stress of the city. (Although the bugs were intense and walking through thousands of them to get into the bathroom was not the most fun experience.)

I also was quite impressed to hang out with several other people my age that are as concerned about debt as I am. The couple getting married almost have their house paid off and have already bought outright two pieces of property. One near the campground and a vacant lot adjacent to their home. They make a decent sized income, but they are also very aware of how they spend their money. Both are very crafty as well. The couple I drove with also are aware of money and the power of it. Both have good paying jobs now and have begun questioning what is truly necessary versus what is desired.

Overall it was a great experience. Time away from the city. Time in nature. Time with great (old and new) friends. Time seeing things that one truly can believe in. I hope that you all had a great weekend as well!