Oh, you crazy kids, running off and getting married! Seriously, I'm sorry I've been mostly away from the forum during this time. This is so incredibly cool. And, I will say that I have known people who've been together forever, not married, and people are surprised when they decide to "put a ring on it". To me, it's similar to what happens when a statue is built to commemorate a great event. People remember the event, and maybe they were even there, but they don't ask why there's a statue. In this case, even though you've had all those great years together already, the marriage is further confirmation that you have something beautiful. And, the ceremony is a chance to share that with everyone important to you.