So how about forgetting the "traditional" hype and make your wedding personal and include what is important to you and forget the wedding traditions that are fueled by business?

It is your day so make it what you want. If you want balloons and cupcakes so be it. If you want to get married in a hot air balloon do it. Choose what you want it to be.

I am sorry that your dad cannot be there. My dad (stepdad but he was always the real dad) died when he was only 56 and I wish I could have had him with me longer.