I am getting married on Feb 28th and we wanted something small. First it was to be a suprise in a garden. Then our option was a lovely garden in Mornington for the ceremony (costs approx. $350 incl. photos for ceremony) and we were not going to have a reception. I wanted a dress for me and DD, suit for DF, simple flowers and a celebrant. (no bridesmaids etc. just us and DD) I was to invite 11 people. Parents, Grandparents, Siblings and Neices/Nephews.

My cousin then sent out engagement party invites for the date of our wedding (she didn't know as it was still a suprise) and it was the only day they had free for the garden until March.
Now... we are having a bush wedding in my Aunties LARGE yard, ceremony as above and a reception of a spit roast and desserts. I plan to have only 2 tables (for the elderly and pregnant etc) and some picnic rugs, I want it to be a casual affair and for everyone to interact which I do not believe will happen if they are 'allocated a chair'. We plan to spend under $2000- and we now have 50ish people coming as we included Aunties/Uncles/Cousins.

Sorry for the long post just thought I would throw out some ideas.

Good Luck with your plans! It is hard to remember it is about 'you' not your rellies etc.

Deanne.