Whoever dreamed up the scam of a wedding should be congratulated for his sheer audacity. What a crock and waste of money. Two people love each other, so let's see how much in debt we can get them in from day one, watch the money fights begin and then there is a good chance they'll split so they can both do it all over again.

I say forget the damn wedding. Take half the money it would cost, let the men have one hell of a bachelor party and the women one hell of a bridesmaid party and have a much better time without incurring debt that needs to be repaid over the next 10 years.

Traditions are made for companies that cater to them fleece us for as much as they can. Buy into them and pay not only now, but for years to come in the debt you must support.

Be smart and elope - 10 years from now when you are still married and happily not in debt, you'll wonder why you even considered having a wedding.