I would simply tell them as you did more research, the amount of work and money that a large wedding required, you and your hubby-to-be talked about it and decided that's not really what you wanted - you wanted something more intimate and after researching it more, a DW seemed more like what you guys wanted. If you are planning on having a shin-dig for the family when you get back (say a picnic or something), you could tell them you're going to have pictures or even a slide show available so everyone can see you and your hubby walking down the aisle. Just an idea. Ultimately, I have learned that this is about you and him so you have to do what make you two happy.