The Return of the Backyard Bash

The New York Times just published a very interesting article about the current trend of brides serving up down-home culinary favorites (burgers, fries, grilled cheese) right in their own backyards, rather than offering standard lobster tail extravagance under crystal-studded chandeliers.

The irony?

These more casual backyard celebrations actually end up costing WAY more than a standard hotel reception. It's simply a matter of keeping up appearances as couples try to avoid the social faux pas of flaunting their wealth during a recession.

Tsk tsk.

I'm sorry, but in my opinion, a carefully contrived "budget casual" wedding that costs an arm and a leg is even tackier than owning up to your caviar and Dom Perignon.

{Photo of one of my very favorite low-key weddings ever via Once Wed}