It's a misconception that a fairytale wedding means a big, expensive, luxurious wedding. Of course, I want a happy, vibrant wedding full of my friends and family. I want everyone to drink a ton and dance even more. I want it to be full of mouthwatering food and good music. I want it to be dreamlike and memorable, but that doesn't mean I have to spend $35,000 on one night. The truth of the matter is 36% of couples have wedding debt after their big day.

This summer I worked as an intern for a company that held really expensive weddings. Couples paid over six figures for their special night at a beautiful venue with delicious catering. The weddings were gorgeous and definitely memorable. The reviews say it was worth every cent, but after attending several of these over-the-top events I have come to realize it's not for me. The flashy weddings that are supposed to be one-of-a-kind are really one-in-a-million. While the extra details at a wedding can be fun, they can also be distracting. Less is often more. Simple and chic is the way to go.

I'm not hating on brides who want to splash the cash and throw a fabulous banger, but I can't justify spending that much on one night. I'll still have the rest of my life ahead of me and I think that money is better spent somewhere else. Can you imagine the magical honeymoon that money could be spent on? Or even better, I would love to use it to buy a house and a car. Extravagant weddings are trendy, but I think investing in a future with your life partner is much more romantic.

Growing up, I was never one to daydream about being a princess marrying a prince, but since working at so many weddings and being in a long-term relationship, I've become a little obsessed with planning my own. Weddings are absolutely a magical night celebrating past and future memories while making incredible ones throughout the day. I can't wait for my own wedding, partying with all my friends and family in a night dedicated to our shared love. I am looking forward to planning every detail with my significant other down to the font on the seating chart, but I'll be doing it my way, without emptying my wallet.