As the gentle surf lapped at the jetty where we stood, I turned to find my husband down on one knee, presenting me with an engagement ring. Tears filled my eyes, and I barely managed to utter a breathless, “Yes!” as beachgoers cheered around us. On the drive home, I couldn’t help but admire my new ring, already envisioning the perfect wedding.
I longed for a celebration that truly reflected our love story, our unique interests, and the life we were building together. I imagined gathering our friends and family in a cozy, candlelit space adorned with romantic blooms, dancing to our favorite tunes all night long. I had my heart set on an ivory gown and knew exactly which flowers would grace the reception tables.
Months flew by as I meticulously planned, and when our big day finally arrived, it felt like a dream come true. But looking back, I realize it wasn’t quite the wedding I had envisioned. Thankfully, I was blissfully unaware at the time.
You see, we tied the knot 18 years ago, well before the rise of social media and the digital age. My options for bridal gowns were limited to back issues of bridal magazines, and wedding photography was nothing like it is today. My friends and I found ourselves in off-the-rack dresses from big bridal shops, and the idea of a mashed potato bar was completely foreign to us.
Honestly, when I learned that weddings now feature cocktails in mason jars, I might have sprinted down the aisle straight to the bar.
Recently, we attended a wedding for two close friends, and it was so wonderfully hipster that it took my breath away. The simplicity of their venue and decor was stunning, and as we left their celebration, I turned to my husband and declared my desire for a hipster wedding redo. And it wasn’t just about the mason jars, either.
1. Barn Weddings Are All the Rage
Barn venues give a nostalgic nod to rustic charm and provide the perfect backdrop for a lively dance party. My wedding took place in a hotel ballroom that lacked any rustic flair—no shiplap in sight!
2. Burlap Reigns Supreme
Back in the late ’90s, tulle was the go-to decoration. Now, hipsters have reclaimed burlap, using it in everything from table runners to adorning mason jars filled with wildflowers. Someone get me a roll of burlap for my dream wedding!
3. Custom Hashtags Are Essential
Since we married before social media took off, our photos were limited to those taken by our photographer and the few disposable cameras on the tables. Nowadays, couples create adorable hashtags by merging their last names. Mine would likely sound like a fast-food menu item!
4. Chalkboards Are Chic Again
These aren’t just for classrooms anymore. Whether it’s a little one carrying a sign down the aisle or a display next to an artisanal cheese platter, chalkboards are a must-have at any hipster wedding. I can already picture a handcrafted chalkboard showcasing the organic, free-range hors d’oeuvres at my do-over.
5. Food at Hipster Weddings Is Next Level
Our wedding menu was lovely, but it didn’t feature a buffet of comfort foods like macaroni and cheese or buttermilk biscuits. The culinary offerings at hipster weddings are delightfully trendy and creative. After seeing the delicious spread at our friends’ wedding, I couldn’t help but rethink my own appetizer choices (and yes, I’m still talking about that mashed potato bar).
While our wedding day was indeed special and represented who we were at the time, attending modern weddings fills me with nostalgia for what could have been. As we swayed to our wedding song under twinkling lights in that charming barn, I couldn’t help but appreciate the hipster friends who know how to throw a truly romantic and rustic celebration.
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Summary
Reflecting on my wedding from 18 years ago, I realize that today’s hipster weddings offer a unique charm I wish I could have experienced. From rustic barn venues to trendy burlap decor and delicious comfort food, the modern wedding scene has evolved beautifully. While I cherish my own wedding memories, the allure of a hipster do-over is undeniably tempting.