Dana and Arlan’s wedding vision was truly shaped by the stunning location they chose. The vintage atmosphere overlooking the Pacific provided the ideal backdrop for the ambiance they wanted. With a rich, earthy color palette and subtle hints of blue, complemented by nostalgic elements such as record players and disposable cameras, their cozy Timber Cove Resort wedding felt like a dream come true. Everything fell into place beautifully, resulting in a celebration that exceeded all their expectations.
Set against the majestic sea backdrop, the ceremony was a breathtaking scene for their romantic exchange of vows. It was followed by a terrace reception, allowing guests to enjoy the same stunning view. The tables were adorned with lovely vintage settings and earthy blooms complemented by lush greenery—an overall charming tablescape. As the night progressed, the celebration continued with music and dancing, ensuring that everyone had a fantastic time.
Every part of their big day reflected their own style and personal touch, making it a celebration of amazing beauty. If you’re looking for wedding ideas, check out these awesome photos taken by Sav and Cam.
The ceremony was very romantic and memorable. Our officiant was a family friend, and the service was held primarily in Russian as both myself and Arlan are originally from Kazakhstan, though we live in Northern California now. Some parts were kept in English so that everyone felt included. We wanted it to be more than just about us and just the day. We wanted a relaxed and cozy weekend for all of our family and friends to enjoy. On the wedding day, having our 78-year-old grandma, who flew in from Kazakhstan, give a blessing was really important to us.
Choosing a Venue That Aligned with Their Vision
It’s important to think the theme through. It helps direct the wedding and guide all your decisions moving forward. For us, the cozy cabin and vintage theme really came together beautifully in the end. The venue plays a large part in that (it sure did for us), so make sure you look at many venues and find one that fits the vision and vibe you are trying to create. Thanks in large part to our amazing planners, our whole event flowed seamlessly, and we never felt rushed or stressed. We were able to do it all and enjoy every moment of the day. That is what we are most proud of.
Finding the Perfect Venue by Trusting the Experts
We looked at so many venues. We toured locations with Taryn from TSWED in Maui, Oahu, and Napa, CA. But we couldn’t find the right fit. Finally, our wedding planner pitched us the Timber Cove Resort, which was different from the vibe we were initially looking for. However, they insisted that Timber Cove had an aesthetic that matched our personality as a couple. When we got to the site, we couldn’t believe it. It was the perfect fit for us!
Congratulations to Dana and Arlan on their cozy Timber Cove Resort wedding filled with stunning Pacific Ocean views. And many thanks to Sav and Cam for capturing every special detail that made this celebration truly exceptional.
This celebration is proof not to underestimate the power of your venue. Often, the backdrop of a wedding sets the whole vibe. If you’re starting to plan your wedding and haven’t chosen a location for your vows yet, check out our venue guide for ideas on finding a place that matches your one-of-a-kind love story.
When Riley and Mark were planning their wedding, they aimed for something special: the same cozy vibe they cherish during their friend get-togethers. They loved the thought of a backyard picnic, with all its mismatched chairs, vibrant decor, and lots of candles. And guess what? They pulled it off! Their picnic inspired No Vacancy wedding struck just the right balance between classy and fun. By day, it was a stunning affair, but when evening fell, it transformed into an epic bash, complete with unlimited drinks and shots for all to revel in.
The couple couldn’t have picked a better spot to bring their vision to life. The hotel’s unique interior perfectly matched their style. And when they stepped into the outdoor courtyard, they found themselves surrounded by even more charm. Against the vibrant mountain mural, they shared their heartfelt vows. Then, after the ceremony, they gathered around a beautifully set table adorned with garden florals, golden accents, and antique touches, all illuminated by the gentle flicker of candlelight.
If you’ve ever dreamed of a cozy celebration surrounded only by your closest loved ones, let this event be your inspiration. Take a look through these stunning images captured by MK Zach Photography to see exactly what we mean.
Turning Their Party House Vibe Into a Picnic Inspired No Vacancy Wedding
When planning our wedding, it was really important that the day felt uniquely ours. We had been together six years by the time we got married (engaged for two), and we felt like people expected a lot from us when it came to the actual day. My husband and I have the “party house” of our friend group. We’re always the first to throw a pregame, a game day, or a themed party. We love doing that because we always have a blast. I enjoy hosting—setting out food, making a unique cocktail, hanging up decorations—even if it’s just for something silly like the Kentucky Derby or a 26th birthday party. So when it came time to plan our wedding, I knew I wanted the same sort of vibe that we capture when we have friends over. The “backyard picnic” aesthetic inspired me–mismatched chairs and place settings, pops of color, lots of candles, that sort of thing. With that aesthetic, we knew we could have a good balance of a beautiful formal event and an insane party with bottomless drinks and shots once the sun went down and our grandparents went to bed.
How the Bride’s Brother’s Unexpected Role as Officiant Turned Their Ceremony Into a Touching and Hilarious Special Moment
My little brother officiated our wedding. We’re both very close to our families and knew from the beginning of our planning process that we wanted to find a way to involve them as much as possible, given our wedding was so small. My brother is a natural public speaker (high school teacher and former minor league WWE wrestler), and he killed it. We gave him no guardrails about what we wanted, and he managed to create a ceremony that had everyone crying—from both laughter and because it was so moving.
Breaking Tradition: Why Your Wedding Should Reflect You, Not Others
Here’s some advice for couples navigating the wedding planning process: prioritize yourselves above all else. Don’t let the expectations of others or traditional norms dictate your day. Making decisions that authentically reflect your relationship and desires is key—you won’t regret it. Remember, amidst the whirlwind of planning, it’s normal to feel consumed by wedding details, but trust that this phase will pass. Stay true to yourselves and cherish every moment of this journey. We wanted the day to feel like a big party. We didn’t necessarily want it to feel like a “wedding,” more of a “celebration of love.” I wanted the whole night to have a picnic, family-style dinner feeling. I kept repeating to vendors and friends that I wanted “an all-night party.”
Working with Local Vendors Who Shared Their Vision to Bring to Life Their Picnic Inspired No Vacancy Wedding
For the most part, my husband and I planned our wedding by ourselves, with my mom’s help (which I will forever be grateful for). Weddings are a numbers game. Anyone who has planned a wedding or been in one knows that it’s all about money. So when we started planning, we knew we didn’t want to work with big vendors who do 50+ weddings a season. It was essential for us to work with smaller local vendors who understood our vision and who genuinely were interested in being a part of our day. That reflects a lot in their work—whether the flowers, table settings, cake, or catering. Our vendors were great, and we could not have had a better team of people around us.
From Wedding Logo to Home Decor
I don’t know if I would call it a DIY per se, but we had a custom neon sign of our wedding logo, the tiger in the martini glass, made. It was easily the centerpiece of our reception, and now it hangs above our home bar, making for a perfect wedding day favor for us. The tiger in the martini glass logo was on our wedding stationery, including our matchbook favors. It was designed by East + West Designs, who did all of our paper. She did such a lovely job. The inspo I gave her behind it was “a doodle you would do on a bar napkin.” It pays homage to how we met: at the University of Missouri (Mizzou, home of the Tigers! M-I-Z), where we both graduated from. It’s one of my favorite things we made for the wedding, and I will probably talk to people about it forever.
Congratulations to Riley and Mark on their colorful picnic inspired No Vacancy wedding. And huge thanks to MK Zach Photography for capturing their dreamy big day with us.
Be bold and show who you are when planning your wedding. Pick things that reflect your style, like choosing an incredible venue or adding your own twist to traditions. Check out our guide for fun ideas to make your big day really special and unique, just like your love story.
Nate and Bernie, both half-Italian, felt an instant connection to Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. With its majestic architecture and magical gardens overlooking Biscayne Bay, it made for the perfect fit for their special day. Vibrant florals, elegant decor, and stunning attire came together to create the most magical celebration of their lives, even though they were planning from 3,000 miles away.
One of the wedding’s highlights was the venue itself. The breathtaking gardens provided the perfect backdrop for the couple’s sweet “I dos,” but that’s not all. The tented reception was equally stunning. It featured a colorful ceiling installation of blooms, a monogrammed dance floor, tables adorned with vibrant centerpieces, and elegant settings. The celebration continued as guests danced the night away, creating unforgettable memories.
Every detail of their celebration was meticulously planned, reflecting their authenticity and creating an extraordinary experience. The wedding theme was Anthropologie meets Versace, flawlessly brought to life by their talented team of vendors. Trust us when we say you must see this Vizcaya Museum & Gardens wedding. Evan Rich Photography beautifully captured every detail, so keep scrolling. We guarantee you’ll be blown away!
Crafting Personalized Moments: A Vizcaya Museum & Gardens Wedding Ceremony to Remember
We worked with our officiant, a good friend, to create a deeply personal ceremony. My 92-year-old grandma, who only speaks Spanish, wrote and read a prayer for us. We wrote and read our vows, and they were astoundingly complementary. Our recessional song was “We’re All Dudes” because we both love “Good Burger.” Our dog wore a tux, walked down the aisle, and stood with the groomsmen. There were also touches of him throughout the reception, like on our cocktail napkins and atop our cake. Our logo, which another good friend created, was featured everywhere, including on the dance floor. We also wrapped the night by scream-singing “Welcome to the Black Parade” with all our (millennial) guests.
Tackling Wedding Stress Through Strategies in Organization and Communication for Their Vizcaya Museum & Gardens Wedding
I’m not sure I ever figured out how to manage the stress, but I tried to be organized, decisive, timely, detail-oriented and communicative with my planner and vendors throughout the whole process. And I can honestly say the stress was 100 percent worth it. I’d do it all over again for that perfect day.
How They Crafted an Anthropologie Meets Versace Wedding
I’ve always loved color and wanted our wedding to be vibrant and warm. The unofficial theme was Anthropologie meets Versace, which genuinely felt that way! I’m most proud of pulling off the most magical day of our lives from 3,000 miles away (we live in Los Angeles) and ensuring every detail was meaningful, authentic, and unique to us.
From Childhood Fascination to Wedding Venue
I’ve loved Vizcaya since I was a kid. I always knew I wanted to get married there. I revisited it as an adult and fell in love all over again. It’s the most stunning place I’ve ever seen. My husband and I are also both half-Italian, so it felt like the perfect fit.
A Day of Surprises and Joy: Highlights from Their Vizcaya Museum & Gardens Wedding
The entire day, from start to finish, was euphoric! Surprising Nate at the altar with a tattoo I got while getting ready, having our handsome Golden Retriever crush it as our Flower Dog, the unbelievable flowers, exchanging our extremely personal vows, the live painter, nailing our first dance, doing a shotski during the reception, dancing in the rain at the end of the night. We can’t pick just one.
Congratulations to Bernie and Nate on their stunning Vizcaya Museum & Gardens wedding—a perfect blend of Anthropologie meets Versace. Their day proves that magic happens when a couple’s unique style shines through in every detail. Special thanks to Evan Rich Photography for capturing it all beautifully.
Working with a trusted team of vendors is key to bringing your dream wedding to life. By choosing vendors who understand and are passionate about your vision, you can ensure that every detail is executed with care. Find your dream team by exploring our directory of the world’s best wedding vendors.
When Margaret and Malachi began planning their wedding, they were set on having a celebration that lasted all night and reflected their personal style. They were fortunate to discover a venue that provided a perfect starting point for their vision. Using vibrant colors, lush flowers, and modern decor, they turned their SKYLIGHT wedding into the tropical paradise they had always dreamed of for their special day.
SKYLIGHT proved to be the ideal wedding venue for the couple due to its great location and versatile space. They took full advantage of its blank canvas appeal, adorning it with stunning floral pillars and a vibrant geometric backdrop for their ceremony altar, along with a lush greenery installation. Their creativity knew no bounds as they transformed the space for the reception, complete with wooden tables adorned with elegant centerpieces.
If you’ve ever wondered about infusing your individuality into every element of your celebration to establish a unified and stylish theme, then this wedding is a must-see. The stunning photos, skillfully captured by NJ Duncan Photography, genuinely encapsulate the essence of this pair’s love story and the remarkable day they curated.
We had gone to a wedding that went to the wee hours of the morning and thought it was so fun not to have to change locations for an after party. Our venue was a 24-hour rental, so we got to choose whatever end time we wanted, and it worked out great. We also loved the blank canvas that we got to decorate and that it was centrally located so guests could stay in Denver. We had been going to a ton of weddings of friends when we got engaged, so we started by just thinking about what we liked and didn’t like at those weddings. Eventually, we found our venue and met with our planner, who gave us amazing vendor recommendations. The style of our wedding is very much a style we love in our own lives, relatively simple with warm touches and a few showy statements.
Having a Close Friend Officiate and a Shared Journey Down the Aisle
We had a close friend officiate, someone who we were close to as our relationship started, so he could speak to how we have grown together. We also walked down the aisle together; we wanted that to symbolize that we were entering this marriage as partners. We wrote our own vows, which definitely made things feel more intimate and specific to us. Reading our vows to each other in front of all the people we love the most.
Balancing Act: Creating a Stunning Wedding with Guest Comfort in Mind
For couples beginning their wedding planning journey, here’s some advice. Firstly, think carefully about whether you want to include any traditions – remember, nothing is mandatory. Secondly, trust your vendors. They’re experts who are great at coming up with creative ideas. Lastly, we’re really proud that we managed to make our wedding look amazing while also making sure our guests felt comfortable and cared for.
Congratulations to Margaret and Malachi on their beautiful tropical SKYLIGHT wedding. And a big thank you to NJ Duncan Photography for capturing every moment of their special day.
Janita and Alex had always imagined quietly tying the knot. They didn’t fancy a big wedding bash, but the thought of escaping to Iceland for a week with their nearest and dearest, soaking in the beauty of the country, felt like the perfect plan. Iceland was extra special to them because it was where they had their most cherished holiday together and where Janita popped the question to Alex precisely a year before their big day. Their Kvernufoss elopement was just as they had hoped, complete with sweet nods to their Australian and UK roots
Their wedding style took inspiration from their stunning natural black diamond and gold engagement rings, which harmonized with the ethereal beauty of the Icelandic scenery. Their extraordinary day was made even more magical with a ceremony overlooking majestic waterfalls, followed by capturing moody portraits amidst the misty coastline and the breathtaking landscape.
If you’re thinking about skipping the big wedding and eloping in your dream city or country instead, you need to check out these captivating photos captured by Junebug member Jane Iskra. Get those passports ready because after seeing these stunning images, you’ll be itching to book those flights and embark on your magical elopement adventure.
The Couple:
Janita and Alex
The Wedding:
Kvernufoss, Iceland
How Their Wedding Jewelry Inspired Their Kvernufoss Elopement Design
Our wedding inspiration and creative direction came from London jeweler and TATE Modern artist Frances Wadsworth Jones. She designed and made our natural black diamond and gold engagement rings that perfectly complemented the otherworldly Icelandic landscape in which we chose to get married.
Celebrating Cultural Diversity Through Wedding Fashion
Janita’s family history spans four continents, which explains her mix of cultural influences and why her design decisions tend to be non-traditional. To honor this, she needed to find a dress designer who could push the perception of what an Indian bridal wedding lehenga could be. The result was a custom-made striped structured lehenga in a metallic polymer paired with a hand-embroidered tape blouse and a black and gold corded cape by a sustainability-focused LGBTQ+ fashion designer. We planned every aspect of the wedding ourselves. Both working in creative fields, we designed and curated every detail and aesthetic to ensure the day was perfect and harmonious against the epic Icelandic landscape. It was really important to Janita to, wherever possible, commission designers who were not just the best in their craft but also from underrepresented minorities in their respective fields for every aspect of the wedding—from the rings to the lehenga to her brows and lashes.
Tradition and Symbolism: The Meaning Behind the Hindu Wedding Garland Exchange
The exchange of garlands is one of the oldest traditions in a Hindu wedding ceremony. It’s the first thing that happens when the bride and groom see each other and signifies their acceptance, affection, and respect for each other. It was really important to us that we could include native flowers such as eucalyptus and proteas to represent our home in Australia and thistles to represent our home in the UK, and our incredible florist found them all. We still can’t believe these were the first neck garlands she’s ever made. The weather was perfect when Janita arrived, but as the ceremony progressed and we emotionally said our vows, the sky cried happy tears with us, too—as we were pronounced husband and wife. I’m so glad we packed gorgeous clear umbrellas, just in case.
How Their Kvernufoss Elopement Came To Be
Janita had always dreamed of eloping, and in the height of COVID, this was the perfect way to keep our family safe and fulfill a lifelong dream. A big, one-day event didn’t feel suitable for us; however, the possibility of having a close group of friends with us for a week and experiencing the best of Iceland with a ceremony towards the end felt perfect. Iceland is unique to us because it was our favorite holiday when Janita proposed to me almost a year before our wedding day. The moment we found pictures of this spot at Kvernufoss, we felt like it was going to be the one, but we knew for sure on a site reconnaissance just 24 hours before! Since the wedding, a vast man-made pathway has been built there. So, we feel fortunate to have been one of the last to experience Kvernufoss in its natural state.
Tips for Creating a Destination Wedding Contingency Plan
If you are having a destination wedding, we recommend having a contingency plan for everything—budgets, timings, suppliers, food, and venue; a lot can change when you get there. Flexibility is also crucial for an outdoor wedding, as the weather and daylight hours must dictate much of the day. The day moves so quickly that it can become a blur, so investing a large proportion of the budget towards experienced and high-quality photographers will be a decision you will be glad you made for the rest of your lives.
If you’re getting ready to run off and get married all by yourselves, don’t forget to take a peek at this handy checklist! It has everything you need to ensure your special “I do” moment goes just right.
Paul and Chrissy thought a destination wedding would cost a fortune. But when they did the math, they discovered they could have their dream wedding in their dream location for way less than they imagined. So, they went for it! Positano was the place to make it happen. With an enchanting venue, bright florals, and chic fashion, their Villa Magiaelopement was truly unforgettable and one for the storybooks.
Against the breathtaking backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea, they shared heartfelt vows on a gorgeous terrace. Lush blooms adorned the pathway, framing a perfect view of the picturesque waterfront and the quaint town beyond. Following the ceremony, they enjoyed an intimate reception, with a table adorned with vibrant arrangements, creating a scene as beautiful as their love.
If your dream elopement involves your nearest and dearest, stunning coastal views and a touch of unique charm, then let this be your inspiration. Keep scrolling to uncover all the swoon-worthy details expertly captured by Junebug member Maria Bryzhko.
Mixing Textures, Colors, and Accessories in the Bridal Attire
I had no inspiration whatsoever. I was very confused about what I wanted to wear. I first fell in love with my shoes and then found a short dress I loved! Mum and I stumbled across this brightly colored necklace while casually shopping one day, but we both thought it was so different and funky that we believed it could work brilliantly. Then, while shopping with my mum for her dress, I found a long dress I loved. I tried it on while I was waiting, and whoops, I fell in love with that, too! I ended up buying that one, too, and decided to keep my short one for the reception. My style is just a compilation of interesting shapes, textures, and colors that speak to me: pink velvet and feather shoes, one sequin dress, and one plain satin. A necklace of vibrant colors and shapes perfectly complemented my rose gold and sunstone ring. I wanted a glamorous yet classic hairstyle, and I wanted tones very similar to what I would usually wear for makeup.
How They Landed on a Villa Magia Elopement
We had been looking at typical Australian wedding venues, photos, and styles, but it just didn’t feel like us. We wanted something with more character, but it seemed out of budget. I came across a photo of Positano and showed my husband-to-be Paul, and he said, “I wish!” We thought about it some more and realized, why not? Having a destination wedding seemed like the “wealthy family” option, but after crunching some numbers, we realized we could actually elope in the location of our dreams for a lot less than we expected to pay at home.
Wedding Advice: Craft Your Wedding Day With Purpose
I believe it’s really important to ignore trends and not worry about what other people think. Plan your wedding solely based on what you and your partner are dreaming of. Choose each and every element that you fall in love with, and don’t look back. Try not to overwhelm yourself with inspiration from Pinterest, Instagram, or magazines. Select things that truly represent you and that make you happy. Once everything is planned, refrain from looking at more weddings or dresses, as it might lead you to second-guess your choices. If you felt drawn to a particular style or accessory, it was meant to be, so don’t hesitate. Maintaining a positive and excited mindset is crucial because it will be the most incredible day, no matter what little things may go wrong.
How Color Transformed Their Villa Magia Elopement
Color played a significant role in our wedding. Opting for a traditional black and white attire meant that we wanted to incorporate as much color and texture around us as possible. We had a wide array of vibrant, delicate florals surrounded by historical and ornate buildings. Our wedding rings featured non-traditional colored gemstones, complemented by colored shoes and a bright necklace. I truly believe that having those colors around us is what made everything pop.
Choosing a Minimalist Approach for Maximum Impact
We planned our wedding while building our first home, acknowledging our low budget and staying grounded. Prioritizing our financial responsibilities, we opted for a minimalist approach, inviting only our parents to join us. Our splurges were the venue and photographers, both proving invaluable. Villa Magia exceeded expectations, while Maria and Stefano captured our day with unmatched talent and personality. Despite budget constraints, we managed to find affordable attire and DIY elements. Though flights to Italy were a significant expense, our European honeymoon justified the cost.
Congratulations to Paul and Chrissy on their Villa Magia elopement full of chic style and bright colors. And a big thank you to Maria Bryzhko for beautifully capturing all the unforgettable moments that will be cherished for a lifetime. For more intimate celebrations like this one, be sure to explore her profile in our carefully curated directory of wedding photographers from around the world.
By putting what really mattered to them first instead of following traditional norms, they crafted a wedding day that was relaxed, genuine, and shared with their closest loved ones. If you’re eager to begin planning your own special celebration, make sure to check out our elopement planning checklist for guidance.
Valentina and Raffaele’s Convento dell’Annunciata wedding in the Italian countryside was truly a fairytale come true. The historic venue set a breathtaking stage for their big day, complemented by enchanting floral arrangements and classic fashion selections. Their joyous celebration beautifully embodied the essence of love and charm, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present. It was everything they had envisioned and more: a day filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Nestled in a secluded forest, the old convent seemed like it leaped from a storybook. During their forest ceremony, the path was covered in floral clouds and petals, guiding them to an altar surrounded by tall trees. Later, in their courtyard reception, they celebrated under twinkling floral chandeliers, with elegant tables set for their guests. It was a day where nature and romance intertwined, creating a magical atmosphere.
Above all the beauty of their special day, the most precious gift was sharing it with their loved ones, especially their little girl by their side. Thankfully, Junebug member Hakuna Matata beautifully captured every enchanting moment of this joyous occasion. Keep scrolling if you’re dreaming of a timeless celebration with your partner. This is the ultimate inspiration for you.
How They Navigated Convento dell’Annunciata Wedding Wardrobe Decisions
I’ve always been a fan of Nicole Milano’s clothing, so I clearly knew what I wanted to wear. Finding the right style for my husband was more challenging, but in the end, he discovered his perfect look with Italian designer Gabriele Pasini. As for our shoes, we trusted Balenciaga for my husband and Amina Muaddi for me.
Wedding Wisdom: Start with a Clear Vision and Find Reliable Support
Here’s some advice: Make sure to have a clear vision for the colors and style of your wedding right from the start. Stay grounded on your big day because it passes in a flash. It’s essential to trust professional photographers and videographers like we did, as they capture the critical moments of your special day. Finding reliable professionals who support you every step of the way, including selecting suppliers, is crucial. We aimed for a chic, minimal, enchanting atmosphere that would leave our guests in awe. Working closely with our florist, we effortlessly brought our vision to life, resulting in a beautiful design that exceeded our expectations.
Sharing The Convento dell’Annunciata Wedding Day With Their Daughter
The civil ceremony was short but sweet. We added our own personal vows, which made it truly beautiful. Our daughter, Gilda, was supposed to carry the wedding rings but fell asleep, which was a cute little mishap. The best part of the day was being surrounded by all our loved ones, especially having our little girl with us. It was the greatest gift we could ask for.
Customized Mementos For Their Convento dell’Annunciata Wedding Guests
We decided to go the extra mile by gifting our guests personalized clutch bags featuring our monogram, a sacred heart designed just for us. We included saucers and personalized object holders inside each clutch, each with the guest’s name, which was a big hit. Additionally, we provided personalized boxes filled with sugared almonds as a sweet token of our appreciation. While we customized everything, we only opted for DIY for a special kit containing water, sweets, and fans, which accompanied our guests on the bus to the venue.
For a wedding filled with timeless romance, there’s nothing quite like choosing an enchanting venue, lush with florals, and adding those meaningful personal touches. These elements have proven to withstand the changing trends and will forever remain in style. If you and your partner dream of an elegant celebration, check out our planning and budget guides to kickstart your journey.
Image by MemoryBox Photography. Keep scrolling to see everything you need to know about planning your wedding ceremony
Planning your wedding ceremony can be one of the most daunting yet most rewarding parts of the entire wedding planning process. You get to choose readings, music, florals, seating options, backdrops, and everything in between–all to craft the perfect day to profess your love to your new spouse. Is there anything better? If you already feel overwhelmed or just aren’t sure where to start, take a breath and feel rest assured that you’re in the right place! We’ve rounded up all our best ceremony planning resources and guides to walk you through every step.
Setting The Foundation
There are few things more special and heartfelt than writing your wedding ceremony with your partner. This is the reason behind the entire celebration in the first place, so take extra care in crafting a ceremony that speaks to you as a couple. There are so many different ways of creating the perfect wedding ceremony and even more different tips and opinions. Start with these three basics to set a good foundation, and let the rest of the pieces fall naturally into place.
Order
Unless you’re having a religious or cultural wedding ceremony for which the order is set, the first step will be to figure out the order of your ceremony. Traditionally, a non-religious wedding ceremony would include these moments:
There are some obvious moments you absolutely cannot leave out, such as the vows, ring exchange, and first kiss. But most of the other moments can be changed, moved around, or removed entirely depending on your style and preferences. Think about what’s important to you and what kind of ceremony will be most impactful to you, and plan the order to fit that vision.
Themes
Your wedding ceremony should focus on at least three important themes: your past, your present, and your future as a couple. When planning your ceremony with your officiant, be sure to give them insight into each of these areas of your life so they can integrate those into the overall story they will tell. Keep your readings focused on those themes to continue that story throughout the entire ceremony. Give thanks to the people who have gotten you where you are, to the blessings you’re enjoying in the present, and be optimistic about what the future holds.
Timing
The sweet spot for a non-denominational wedding ceremony is between 20 and 25 minutes. If it’s shorter than 20 minutes, you’ll likely feel rushed, and your guests might leave feeling confused and disappointed. If it’s longer than 25 minutes, you run the risk of losing everyone’s attention. Try to stay within that window, and you’ll be golden.
After you’ve set the foundation by figuring out the order, how to integrate your themes, and the timing, it’s time to personalize each moment of the ceremony. This includes the vows, the readings, the unity ceremony, the music, and even the grand exit. Most of these personalizations will be easier to implement in non-denominational weddings, but they can also be added to religious and cultural weddings. We’ve also provided some religious and culture-specific tips to add some personalization as well!
Vows
If you’ve followed us for a long time, you know that we strongly believe you really should write your own vows. That’s why we’ve gathered some unique tips for writing your wedding vows, along with 30 touching examples to use as a framework to make it as easy as possible. After all, the true purpose of your wedding day is to promise your lives to each other, and we think the best way to do that is in your own words.
That being said, some churches do require couples to recite a standard set of vows to make the wedding official. And, while there’s really no way to get around that, we do have a tip for couples who want a religious ceremony but also want to write their own vows: do both! During your wedding ceremony, recite the standard vows that your church requires. During your first look or post-ceremony portrait session, read the vows you wrote to each other. If there’s anything better than writing your own vows, it’s stepping away from the rush of the wedding day to read those vows privately with the love of your life. You’ll appreciate having that moment for just the two of you when all is said and done.
Junebug Tip: Looking for the perfect book to write those heartfelt words? Then you need one of these wedding vow books. They make the perfect souvenir from your big day that you can look back on for years to come.
Aside from writing your own vows, adding a ceremony reading is one of the best ways to personalize your wedding ceremony. Ask one or two family members or close friends to read passages that reflect your views on marriage and/or your hopes for the future. These can be totally unexpected wedding ceremony readings, such as quotes from movies or books, or they can be more traditional and classic, like one of your favorite romantic love poems. The key is to choose readings that fit the vibe of your day and the statement you two want to make about love and marriage.
Unity Ceremony
The unity ceremony serves as a visual representation of the couple joining their separate lives into one, which is why it usually takes place after the couple has exchanged vows. While this is not an official requirement for a wedding ceremony, it is a beautiful, symbolic way to come together as newlyweds. While many couples opt for the traditional candle lighting or unity sand ceremony–which we always love–a lot of couples are going the more non-traditional route with unity ceremonies that range from making a PB&J sandwich to taking a shot. If you’re looking for unique ideas, check out these 15 sweet and sentimental unity ceremonies from some of our favorite real weddings.
Music
The beauty of wedding ceremony music is that it can be as elaborate or as minimal as you want. You can also keep it super traditional or go out on a limb with whimsical, unexpected tunes. This is your opportunity to create a soundtrack for part of your life, so have fun with it! Here are a few key moments that most couples choose to highlight with music:
If music is a top priority for you and you plan to include it during your ceremony, we highly recommend you invest in live musicians. Even if ceremony music isn’t a high priority, we can’t talk enough about how special it is to have live music on your wedding day. Of course, if your budget doesn’t allow for it, or you’re planning to use just a processional and/or recessional song, a recording is a good alternative–just be sure to find someone reliable to press play.
There’s no better way to mark the end of your ceremony and the beginning of the party than with an unforgettable exit. Flower petals, confetti, sparklers, and bubbles are all great options for your guests to literally shower you with love as you walk–or dance–down the aisle as newlyweds. Just be sure to check with your venue to see if they have any restrictions or clean-up fees!
Religious and Cultural Considerations
If you’re planning a religious or culturally traditional wedding, you might think you have no room to personalize your ceremony. But, we’ve seen time and time again that, with a little creativity, most couples are able to find at least one way to make their ceremony their own. If, for example, you’re having a religious ceremony for which you can’t write your own vows and have to use readings from scripture, choose a totally unique and unexpected unity ceremony. If you’re following cultural traditions for your wedding, choose non-traditional music that is meaningful to your relationship. Just because you’re having a religious or traditional wedding ceremony doesn’t mean you can’t find ways to personalize it. You might just need to get a little creative.
At long last, you’ve made it to the best part of planning your wedding ceremony: the design and décor. From arches and backdrops to welcome signs to aisle markers, there are so many details that go into transforming your venue into your perfect ceremony space. Yes, there’s a lot to consider, but we’ve got this wedding décor checklist to help you nail every detail. We’ve also broken down the key elements of your ceremony décor below.
Arches and Backdrops
Of all the decor you can add to your ceremony, arches and backdrops just might be the most important. Not only are they beautiful stand-alone pieces, but they frame the most important aspect of your entire day–you and your partner. We’ve seen everything from macrame to wood to wreaths to copper pipes. We may be biased, but we love them all! We could go on and on about how these small details make a world of difference for your ceremony, but we’d rather show you instead. Head over to our ceremony Pinterest board to see all of the arches and backdrops from our real weddings.
Seating
When choosing seating options for your wedding ceremony, be sure to consider both form and function. If you’re trying to achieve a specific look, get inspired by these unique ceremony chairs that are as beautiful as they are practical. When planning the space, do your guests a favor, and don’t try to pack the chairs as closely together as possible. Give everyone a little breathing room between each other and between the altar and the first row. You’ll also want to take into account the people sitting on the furthest sides or in the back row. Will they be able to see everything? If not, use a semi-circle or full-circle design rather than a straight-row design to ensure everyone has a clear view of the altar.
Once the chairs are set, it’s time to add some pretty dimension to that aisle. To elevate your ceremony space, check out these wedding aisle decor ideas.
Signage
While there is typically much less signage needed for a ceremony than for a reception, there are a few key signs you should try to include in your ceremony décor:
Wedding ceremony programs are totally optional, but they are a nice way to tell your guests what to expect and a bit about the wedding party. If you decide to print programs, they should include your names, the wedding date and location, names of your wedding party, officiant’s name, and the order of events. If you’re including traditions or readings you’d like to explain, this would be the place to do that, as well. Etsy and Minted have lots of beautiful, customizable templates to choose from.
Lighting
For most couples, their wedding ceremony will be lit by natural sunlight, either outside or through the windows of their venue. That’s why we recommend couples plan their wedding timeline around the sun. When tying the knot, you’ll want to be sure that you’re properly lit, that your photos will turn out beautifully, and that neither you nor your guests are blinded by the harsh sunlight.
If you’re planning an evening ceremony or your venue doesn’t provide sufficient natural light, you’ll need to ensure your venue does have other forms of lighting or you’ll need to add your own. If you’re not sure where to start, that’s okay. We’ve got the ultimate guide to wedding lighting to help you decide what’s right for you.
Final Thoughts on Planning Your Wedding Ceremony
We know that this is a lot of information, but we have just a few final tips to make sure your wedding ceremony goes off without a hitch:
Don’t forget the rings
Hand-write your vows rather than read from your phone – It will look better in photos, and you won’t risk feedback in the sound system
Get to know your officiant ahead of time — It will make you and them more comfortable, and they’ll be better prepared to personalize your ceremony
Hire someone to run the ceremony – Even if you don’t want a wedding planner or coordinator for anything else, trust us, you’ll want someone else keeping track of all the details and the timeline
Stay present – At some point during the ceremony, take a minute to breathe and look out at all the people who showed up to love and support you
We’re certain that this guide will help you plan your wedding ceremony in a way that exceeds your wildest dreams. You’ve got your ultimate checklist for the wedding; now it’s time to get to planning the perfect wedding reception!
Emma and Adam dreamed of a wedding where everyone could enjoy themselves and discover the beauty of Puglia. They wanted their special day to reflect their personalities, with a relaxed atmosphere in the countryside, surrounded by their closest friends and family. Their Masseria San Micheledestination wedding blended timeless elegance with a colorful palette, stunning floral arrangements, and chic fashion, making it everything they hoped for and more. It was the perfect recipe for a truly unforgettable celebration.
Their courtyard ceremony, surrounded by stunning floral arrangements, became a deeply meaningful moment as they exchanged vows. The festivities continued with a delightful garden reception featuring a long, winding table decorated with abundant flowers, foliage, and candles, all illuminated by the soft twinkle of lights overhead.
Their special day was a perfect blend of timeless elegance and their own personal flair. Thankfully, Lato Photography was on hand to expertly capture every exquisite detail and cherished moment of their magical celebration. Keep scrolling to experience the beauty and charm of their wedding day all over again.
How Their Masseria San Michele Destination Wedding Came To Be
From the outset, we were confident about one thing: our wedding had to reflect who we were and spread joy to our loved ones. We aimed to bring smiles to their faces from the moment they arrived in our special corner of the world. This place holds a unique significance for us, inspiring the relaxed, chic, and fun atmosphere we envisioned. Surprising many with the vibrant colors we incorporated into the day, we carefully balanced them to harmonize with the venue while delivering impactful moments. Our mantra to our wedding planner was simple: let’s have fun. Though she may have thought we wanted a circus, our goal was simply to ensure everyone had a fantastic time and felt cared for, especially given the number of guests traveling from around the globe, some of whom we hadn’t seen in over five years. Our top priority was making them feel welcome in a place that has welcomed us so warmly over the years.
Choosing Modern Elegance and Sustainable Wedding Style
My look was inspired by the NewWhite bridal aesthetic, which is modern and cool with a feminine touch sprinkled on top. I also found a lot of inspiration from Spanish designers such as Poydel. He is a Spanish designer who creates stunning looks. Unfortunately, multiple trips to Madrid were not feasible for him to create the dress, but I kept that vibe in mind throughout. I kept the accessories simple with two gold bangles and gold dome earrings and let the dress speak for itself. It’s straightforward and timeless but has an architectural dimension to the top that I just love. The day’s make-up was pared back and focused on light contouring and bronzed tones. Adam’s suit was a beautiful brown linen that he would be 100% able to wear again, which was essential to us. We didn’t want too much waste as part of our wedding, so we wanted to ensure we could re-wear as much as possible. I’m already planning how to turn my wedding dress into something I can wear again.
A Personalized Ceremony Script and Handwritten Vows
We had one of our best friends, Laurence, write the whole ceremony by asking us about how we met, our love story, and stories from our six-year relationship. Neither of us knew what to expect, and it was absolute perfection. We also wrote our own vows, which were terrifying but were amazing. It was the talking point for our guests throughout the weekend.
Wedding Wisdom: Balancing Inspiration with Personal Preferences
The best advice I share with all couples getting married is to look for inspiration and have fun, but don’t get lost in the social media bubble. Depending on your circumstances, it can get you down looking at things that don’t fit your venue, budget, or even the wedding you want. So put the social media down after a few first weeks of planning and go with what brings a smile to your face, not necessarily what will bring one to social media.
A Destination Wedding Journey Through Puglia
As it was a destination wedding, we wanted people to feel taken care of and get the opportunity to explore Puglia from multiple vantage points. We went to Ostuni, the white city, for our welcome drinks and celebrated in the windy cobbled streets to welcome our guests. The wedding day highlighted the simplicity and excellent cuisine of the region with freshly made mozzarella, meats, cheeses, and delicious fish dishes. We ended the weekend with a pool party at our venue, and it was the perfect send-off for our friends and family to relax in the Puglian sun with a pizza and beer in hand. Everyone left smiling and truly happy to have experienced the weekend with us all.
Congratulations to Emma and Adam on their chic and colorful Masseria San Michele destination wedding. A big thank you to Lato Photography for skillfully capturing every breathtaking detail and cherished moment of their enchanting celebration.
Thinking about a destination wedding? It’s a great way to have an intimate celebration with loved ones and build unforgettable memories. But here’s the scoop: for a truly remarkable experience, hook up with seasoned vendors who can make your day extra special. Ready to kickstart your journey? Check out our lineup of top-notch wedding pros from around the globe!
At Ben and Greg’s Abbey Resort wedding, elegance met contemporary charm against the serene backdrop of Lake Geneva. Their choice of a romantic lakeside venue–paired with a sophisticated black and white color scheme–set the stage for a celebration that seamlessly blended classic and modern elements.
The couple’s chic and modern vibe infused every aspect of their special day, starting with the garden ceremony surrounded by lush greenery. The sleek altar served as a striking focal point, where the two grooms exchanged their vows. Transitioning to the pavilion reception, the all-black long tables were adorned with candles in glass containers and opulent foliage and floral centerpieces, creating a captivating and dreamy atmosphere.
This wedding offers a fresh perspective on the timeless color palette, serving as an inspiration for couples looking for a modern twist on classic elegance. Keep scrolling to see all the stunning details captured by photographer Junebug vendor Erika Diaz, and let the magic of Ben and Greg’s love story sweep you away.
The Couple:
Ben and Greg
The Wedding:
Abbey Resort, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, United States
A Contemporary and Minimalist Approach to Their Abbey Resort Wedding
Through meticulous planning and coordination with our wedding planner and florist, we successfully brought our vision to life. We aimed for a contemporary, clean, minimal vibe, steering away from the typical wedding atmosphere. Not that there’s anything wrong with that. It just didn’t speak to us. As a same-sex couple, it was essential for us to infuse a more masculine feel into our celebration to achieve our desired result. Opting for an all-black and white theme–extending from guests’ attire to all the linens within the venue–played a crucial role in achieving the desired clean and contemporary look. From there, we put a lot of trust in our florist to execute our aesthetic vision, a preference for more greenery than flowers with a dark and moody twist. She exceeded our expectations, and we were thrilled with the outcome.
Navigating Wedding Advice: How to Stay True to Your Vision
Take the time to come up with a vision you’re happy with. During the wedding planning process, you’ll receive a lot of advice, some unsolicited, and it’s not always helpful. Having a clear vision to gut-check these suggestions helps determine whether or not you want to move forward with it. Also, remember: you can’t please everyone, so ultimately, do what works for you, the couple. It’s your and your partner’s day, after all.
The Crowd-Pleasing Choice of Garrett Popcorn Favors
Being from Chicago, we wanted to give our guests something delicious to remember the night, so we chose to hand out mini bags of Garrett popcorn. If you’re familiar with Garrett, you know it’s a crowd favorite, and there was not a single bag left over. Most people don’t want a keychain or shot glass with your name on it, but they do want a combination of cheddar cheese and caramel popcorn, especially if they’ve been dancing for 4.5 hours.
For many couples, a modern wedding vibe with lots of black accents is just right. If you’re drawn to the elegance of Ben and Greg’s celebration but unsure how to achieve it, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Check out our tips for adding black to your big day. They’ll inspire you to create a chic and polished wedding look effortlessly.
.jpg "Photographers")
