Weddings have a tendency to take on almost mythical qualities. In this country, it’s not out of the ordinary for girls to start dreaming and planning their weddings from the time they’re itty bitty. Then once that little girl grows up, meets the man of her dreams, falls in love, and gets engaged, she starts trying turning all of those dreams into reality.

But weddings have become so expensive and opulent that, frequently, the dreams of those little girls aren’t able to come true. According to a study done by The Knot, the average wedding in America costs $27,800. That is a lot of money! And while I’m sure all brides would love to have a $25K+ budget for their special day, for most, it’s just not feasible. I think this often leaves a taste of disappointment in the mouths of brides-to-be, and some of the magical, fairly-tale elements of a wedding (or the ideal wedding in the girl’s mind) might lose their sparkle. I know I’m that way. Sometimes it’s hard for me to admit, but I have expensive taste. I also have a picture in my mind of what I want my wedding to be like someday. It involves expensive shoes, a sit-down dinner, and a live band. Oh, and the man I love.

Wait a second….isn’t that the whole reason to be married in the first place? Because you’ve found someone you love and who loves you that you want to spend the rest of your life with? YES! That is what a wedding is all about, my friends. It’s not about the flowers; they’re beautiful, but they wither. It’s not about the food; it tastes delicious, but it will be gone within hours. It’s not about the dress; you’ll wear it once and then pack it away.

It’s about love.

I came across this video the other day on Style Me Pretty that made me realize how although we sometimes forget in the crazy commotion of planning and executing a wedding, a wedding is really about getting married. Plain and simple. It’s about family, friends, and embarking on a journey with the one you love.

This couple’s wedding was canceled mere hours before the ceremony due to Hurricane Irene.