New member here...

I am 46, divorced twice. My boyfriend is 49, never married. Do we have many "older" couples here?

We are discussing marriage. Our relationship is wonderful, and we get along great. Here is the "problem". He wants a big, traditional church wedding! I would rather go to the JP. He was raised catholic, but he does not consider himself religious. I am an atheist, and I do not want a religious ceremony. He wants a big, formal "white" wedding. I am laughing at the thought of ME (divorced, middle aged, atheist) getting married in a church, in a wedding gown, in front of a gazillion people! Noooooo...

Nothing is going to happen right away, so there is still plenty of time to talk and negotiate (and stall). What I am looking for here is anyone else in a similar situation who I can talk to. All comments and suggestions are welcome!

Part of me says, "No way." And the other part feels that if this is what he really wants, should I deny him his "big day"?

I am thinking of some compromise. Maybe I can agree to the formal attire, but no church. Maybe get married on a cruise ship or something... I am ok with having a big reception.