Anonymous wrote:OP here!
I wore the long chiffon dress and a hat, when we arrived it was clear that there were a mix of styles and formality levels so I didn't run to the hotel and change. The mother of the bride wore a black cocktail dress. Some women wore sun dresses, others wore ball gowns and stilettos. I’m glad I wore a hat, since that seemed to be the only thing that was consistent amongst the female guests. The men varied from jeans and a tee all the way up to suit and tie. You were right in your estimation that no one was actually wearing white tie.
All of the bridesmaids wore high low dresses (shout out to PP who mentioned high low being back in style!) and the groomsmen wore Polo shirts with dark wash jeans. The groom was, in fact, wearing a tuxedo. The bride wore a pretty dress. It wasn’t white, but certainly looked “wedding ball gown”. Unfortunately, it has rained a lot in this area so the bottom of her dress got a bit dirty by the end of the ceremony.
The brunch was good. The drinks were pretty expensive, I bought a mimosa and a beer for DH, $26 total. Several people must have known in advance because they brought their own miniatures.
The Mother of the Bride started a raffle at the reception. She told us all how no one had purchased this one particular expensive item on the registry and they were selling raffle tickets to help cover the cost.
In all, we had a good time!
A morning farmhouse “white tie” wedding with a cash bar and raffle. Wild.
The range of outfits among the wedding party and family alone is bizarre. I certainly am not surprised at the range among the guests though.
I’m glad you had a good time.