My boyfriend and I have decided to create a shotgun-style mini-wedding for ourselves this Christmas, now that we're expecting a baby. We're both originally from Upstate New York and all of our immediate family is there, so we figured we would do an immediate-family-only type deal (about 10-15 people). We want to spend minimal money. We will dress up, but probably not in wedding garb, just pretty clothes that we like.
Right now we're leaning toward a city hall ceremony, but could be convinced of a Justice of the Peace type deal in a cool setting if it didn't cost too much. We're thinking afterward we could all go to dinner someplace, followed, perhaps, by carriage rides in Washington Park to see the lights displays.
So, my questions:
Which city in the Albany area has the prettiest city hall? Bonus if it's well decorated for Christmas as that will make the pictures nicer.
Where would be a lovely place for dinner following the "ceremony?" Ideally it would have a small private dining room, or we could even rent out the whole thing...but taking reservations for a large party would be fine, too. A fireplace or other type of cozy winter feature would be a bonus.
Is the Lights in the Park display in Washington Park worth it?
Any other ideas?
Thanks so much!
-Soon to married AND a mama!