Alexandrea Acevedo, an event designer from Orlando, and her husband Michael, initially had a grand wedding that left them feeling stressed and unsatisfied. Five years later, they decided to renew their vows in a more meaningful and intimate setting. The couple realized that their initial lavish ceremony was more about meeting others' expectations than fulfilling their own desires. They opted for a simpler, more personal celebration, which cost significantly less but brought them much more joy and peace.

Reevaluating Priorities: From Lavish to Intimate

The first time around, Alexandrea and Michael's wedding was everything society might deem as perfect. Held in September 2018, it featured over 200 guests and cost upwards of $30,000. However, this extravagant affair only brought stress and anxiety rather than joy. Reflecting on that day, Alexandrea now understands that the focus was misplaced. Instead of centering on what mattered most to them, the event catered to everyone else’s wishes. She expresses regret over spending such a significant amount on a day that didn’t truly reflect their personal vision or values.

Upon realizing that their initial wedding was more for show than substance, Alexandrea and Michael began to reassess what they truly wanted from their special day. They recognized that weddings often become showcases for others rather than celebrations of love between two people. This realization led them to plan a second ceremony five years later, one that would be entirely on their terms. By focusing on simplicity and authenticity, they aimed to create a day that felt genuine and meaningful, without the pressure of external expectations.

Fulfilling Their Original Vision: A Personal Celebration

In September 2023, Alexandrea and Michael chose to renew their vows in a serene outdoor chapel atop Stone Mountain in Cleveland, South Carolina. This time, the couple prioritized a small, intimate gathering with their immediate family, including their four children. The entire experience was designed to be stress-free and centered solely on their relationship. They enjoyed a peaceful ceremony followed by a simple family lunch and a hike to nearby waterfalls, all for under $1,000.

This renewed vow exchange marked a full-circle moment for Alexandrea and Michael. After getting engaged in 2017, they had initially planned to elope, seeking nothing more than a beautiful dress, a photographer, and a mountain backdrop. However, family opposition led them to opt for the larger, more traditional wedding. The second ceremony fulfilled their original dream, allowing them to celebrate their love without the chaos and pressure of a large event. Alexandrea hopes that other couples can learn from their experience and prioritize their own desires when planning their weddings, ensuring the day is truly about them as a couple.