just on the small private ceremony and larger reception... i think no one has any right to be insulted on not being invited. it's not a right, that's why people put out invitations lol.

in saying that, maybe just ask people to a ''party'' and then tell them when they get there. that way you don't have the whole gift thing, some people might be insulted in terms of inviting them and "expecting'' a gift but them not being part of the good bit iykwim. (i realise you may not be expecting a gift but most people who go to wedding stuff feel compelled).

so maybe do the ceremony on the quiet and see if your photographer can get one of your pics printed up really large - have that set up at the party and perhaps get all your mates to sign it. Everyone will hopefully so surprised and excited they won't even think to be insulted they weren't invited. I think most people are pretty level headed about these things especially with the costs involved thesedays.

as for the ceremony location - hey each to their own! lol. But you will need to get clearance (check with your local council) and may have to pay a fee (that is the case if you want to use the local park usually, so i imagine this wouldn't be any different).

another consideraion is whether you are having a religious ceremony - not sure if a priest/pastor or whatever would be happy to do a ceremony ... same with celebrant, so I'd start calling now! plus you usually have to have a few meetings and often a "couples'' session so they know you are fair dinkum.

just out of curiosity... what are you wearing? traditional dress??? you don't have to answer that if you don't wish. I was just wondering, given the locaiton and the time of night...

good luck and remember - the wedding is about you and your DF. No one else. And if you do what you both want, then the two most important people in the whole shebang will be happy.