What Can I Say if I Meet Resistance to my Non-Traditional Wedding?

“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind.” - Dr. Seuss

How you deal with friends and relatives who object to an alternative wedding will have to be handled on a case-by-case basis. However, here are a few general principles that will help in most situations.

• Do your best to be diplomatic, no matter what. Wedding planning is stressful, and the last thing you need is more stress because Uncle Jack has suddenly become Enemy Number One.
• Be willing to compromise but not to cave. If you meet a strong objection from someone who is paying for the wedding, you may be forced to compromise to some degree. Remember, this is a big deal for mom and dad, too, and it's important to take their needs into consideration. Consider your priorities and be willing to compromise on things that aren't that important. So maybe you end up getting more flowers than you originally planned. That's probably ok. But don't compromise on the big things that constitute an ethical wedding. For instance, don't get married within a religion that you do not personally practice.
• Try to stay positive. Having loved ones object to something that you feel is incredibly important can be incredibly discouraging. Here's where your partner's support becomes really important. If you find yourself dealing with a lot of resistance, don't lose hope. You and your partner can support each other and maintain a united front in the face of resistance. Be strong, be diplomatic, and be optimistic. You can make an ethical wedding or an alternative wedding work, no matter how many objections that friend from high school throws out.
• Don't forget that this is your wedding. You and your partner are the ones getting married. That means that if you want to get married underwater or while skydiving or simply outside under the stars, it is your choice. Getting married is about celebrating love, not about wearing the right kind of tuxedo. Remind your loved ones that this is the case.