There’s something about a wedding that brings out the best and worst in people. You’ve got high expectations, spreadsheets, too many opinions, and a Pinterest board that’s a bit cursed at this point. So, if you’re in the middle of planning one, and all the formalities seem to drain you, here are some ways to ditch them and personalise your perfect wedding day.
The Ceremony Doesn’t Have to Be Robotic
You can feel it, sometimes, when a wedding ceremony is happening and everyone’s sort of… waiting for it to end. That’s not the vibe. If you’re having a civil ceremony or a non-traditional officiant, you have more freedom than you think.
There’s room to write your own vows, or even ditch vows altogether and tell a story instead. Maybe have a friend say a few words, or include a small ritual that actually means something to you both. The best weddings make people laugh, cry, and strangely, feel like they understand the couple better. The worst ones feel like someone hit shuffle on a wedding template. Be the first kind.
Food Should Feel Like You
One of the sneakiest ways to personalise your wedding is through the wedding menu. You just have to follow this simple step: if you both love something, serve that.
People remember the food. Not whether it was five-star fancy, but whether it tasted good and felt like you. If you’re doing place cards, add a note about the dish or the origin. It doesn’t need to be long. Adding a sentence or two that reveals the intent behind your choices will melt all the hearts.
Photos That Aren’t Just for the Gram
Yes, you’ll want some posed shots. Your mum will cry if there’s no photo of you two smiling under a tree. But the real charm is in the in-between stuff, like that split-second grin before someone walks down the aisle, or a friend’s ugly laugh during the speeches.
Talk to your photographer beforehand and be honest about what you want to remember. Don’t be afraid to ask for film, Polaroids, or even disposable cameras on the tables. Even getting the best photo booth experience in town sounds like a good idea. Not every memory needs to be filtered or staged.
The Music Tells People a Lot
Look, not everyone is a DJ in disguise, but even the most basic playlist says something about your taste. Music fills the awkward bits, such as walking, waiting, and eating. It also builds atmosphere faster than decor.
Choosing a song for the first dance that isn’t the usual slow ballad but instead reminds you of that time you danced around your kitchen with a tea towel cape is gold. Don’t feel like you have to pick songs for the crowd. It’s your wedding. And it’s one of the only times you can blast niche indie tracks or dumb 2000s hits without judgment. Hopefully.
The Dress Code Dilemma
Here’s where things can either feel stiff or completely fun. Don’t be afraid to give your guests a dress code that fits the energy. People appreciate clarity, and they’ll love knowing they can dress to match the mood.
If you’re someone who loves drama, maybe encourage bold colours or statement pieces. If you’re more lowkey, relaxed and flowy, options might suit the scene better. It all adds up. A cohesive colour palette is a great way to personalise your special day.
Dress Like Yourself, Not Like a Stranger in a Magazine
If you don’t wear strapless gowns in daily life, why start now? The same goes for shiny shoes that hurt. When people say ‘you look like you,’ they mean it as a compliment. It doesn’t mean boring. It means comfortable, confident, and not fighting your outfit every time you sit down.
If that’s a suit with sneakers, go for it. If it’s a vintage dress with a messy ponytail, yes. There’s so much pressure to look bridal or groom-worthy that it’s easy to forget the goal is just to feel good. You’re not dressing to match a perfect Pinterest board. You’re dressing for the most photographed day of your life. Of course, if you want the sparkly mermaid dress, go for it. This ramble was just a reminder that you don’t have to.
Conclusion
Making your wedding personal isn’t about doing more. It’s about cutting through the noise and choosing what fits. The stuff that matters to you and your person, because that’s what you’ll remember. Not what your auntie had to say about the venue choice.
