DEAR ABBY: In your reply to "Still Laughing in Short Hills, N.J.," you said, "Perhaps those who think of a wedding as a fund-raiser should consider charging admission. (Only kidding!)."
Well, that's exactly what my husband and I did. Our wedding took place at a historical ranch that was being restored. It was held in conjunction with an annual event hosted in part by our local historical society. While it was in the planning stages, it was suggested that we be married at the ranch in period clothing. The catch was that our wedding would be considered the "entertainment" for that day, and anyone who attended the event would be welcome to witness the marriage ceremony and have cake. The entrance fee/donation was $1.
We sent 50 invitations to family and friends, and everyone came. The event made money (some of our friends donated more than the $1 entrance fee), and our wedding was held in beautiful surroundings with loving friends. Everyone had a great time. It was a win-win situation. It's still the talk of the town five years later.
So, you see, you can have a tasteful wedding/fund-raiser -– if it's done right. -– HAPPILY MARRIED, RIO LINDA, CALIF.
DEAR HAPPILY MARRIED: So I see. However, if it's done "wrong," it can appear to be a fund-raiser for the bride and groom -– who should be self-supporting -– and not for such a worthy cause.