Bull****! If you want to have a registry then have a registry - you don't need a fancy-schmantzy huge expensive wedding to have one. I think they are awesome ideas because how many times have you been invited to a wedding and had no idea what to get someone? I know we've been to heaps! People will thank you for it because it makes their job easier.

One thing I would suggest is maybe even hiring a dress or buying a really nice formal dress that you can wear again because seriously, buying your wedding dress is overrated. I paid $1200 for mine and it has not seen the light of day since I had it drycleaned and boxed up. It is in our wardrobe taking up space. I wouldn't say it was a waste of money, but dead money kwim? I probably can't even sell it now because it's been 10yrs since I got married so it's probably dated too much.

Another thing is do you really need a place to get married in? I know May weather can be iffy, but you can get crappy weather any time of year and some of the most beautiful weddings we have been to have been with a celebrant in a park or at the couples house.