6 Ways to Make Your Wedding Feel More Personal

Most of the couples I work with dream of a wedding day that not only celebrates their love but also shares their unique story with every guest. Personalizing your wedding can transform a beautiful event into an unforgettable experience filled with love and special memories, and honestly, I feel a little tingle just thinking about it. I’ve had the privilege of documenting so many incredible wedding days and today, I want to share six heartfelt ways to infuse your personal touch into your wedding day.

1. Custom Vows

Writing your own vows is a deeply meaningful way to personalize your ceremony. It’s also one of my personal favorites. This is your opportunity to express your feelings and commitments to each other in words that are uniquely yours. Share stories about what you love about each other, promises for the future, or even inside jokes that will make your partner smile. Speaking from the heart will not only move your partner but also deeply engage your guests in your love story.

Feeling a little nervous to share them in front of your family and friends? Consider exchanging your custom vows with each other during your first look instead.

2. Unique Venues or Backyards/Family Property

Another one of my favorite ways to make your wedding feel more personal, is to chose a venue that holds special significance to you as a couple. Whether it’s a family-owned property, the place where you had your first date, somewhere you’ve always dreamed of going, or even your own backyard, the right setting will add a personal backstory to your celebration.

3. Meaningful Music Choices

Music sets the tone for your entire wedding day, from the walk down the aisle to the last dance. Take some time to select songs that have special meaning in your relationship—perhaps the first song you danced to, or music from a concert you attended together. While there is absolutely nothing wrong with the classics (and hey - if you love tradition, you do you!), by choosing music that resonates with personal moments, you create a soundtrack that’s uniquely yours, evoking memories and emotions that are meaningful to you both.

4. Incorporating Family Traditions

I love that couples are making their own rules and not feeling like they “have to” do certain things on their wedding day, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have ANY traditional elements on your wedding day. If you want to, you can make your wedding feel more personal by incorporating family traditions as a way to honor your heritage and build a bridge between the past and your future together (or between families). Whether it's a cultural ritual, wearing a piece of family heirloom jewelry, or using your grandparents' wedding rings, these nods to family ties enrich the celebration, making it deeply personal and incredibly special.

5. Planning Special Moments and Experiences with Your Guests

This one might feel a little extra, but you can also plan interactive experiences, such as a group dance, a photo slideshow of memories with your guests, a candle-lighting ceremony or an interactive escort card display. These activities not only entertain but also create meaningful interactions, making your guests feel truly part of your wedding day.

6. Personalize Your Attire

Lastly, you can make your wedding feel more personal by expressing your personality and style through your attire! This could be as simple as wearing a bespoke suit or a non-traditional wedding dress, or as sentimental as incorporating a piece of your mother’s wedding dress into your outfit. Choosing to wear something that reflects your personal style or family history adds another layer of individuality to your wedding day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can we make our wedding guest experience more personal?

I love this question! Here are a few ideas:

• Welcome guests with personalized bags containing treats and a small keepsake

• Set up interactive guest books or video booths for personalized messages

• Use customized place cards with a personal note for each guest

• Consider a special thank you speech to make everyone feel appreciated.

What are some ways to personalize our wedding photos and video?

Discuss with your photographer (hi!) and videographer about including significant locations or elements in your shoots. I will always ask my couples about what candid moments they are hoping for, what their favorite locations and details are, and so much more. I really value getting to know you before I show up and photograph your wedding day so I can provide more custom suggestions when we work together!

What are some thoughtful ways to acknowledge loved ones who have passed?

I know what a big decision this can be, and ultimately the choice is yours! Here are a few things that I’ve seen done:

• Reserve a seat for the loved one at the ceremony with their photo or a personal item

• Include a moment of silence or a special toast in their honor

• Use symbolic gestures like incorporating a specific flower or wearing a piece of their jewelry to feel their presence on your special day.

Ways to Make Your Wedding Feel More Personal

Ultimately, your wedding is a reflection of your love, and personalizing your big day is the perfect way to share your journey with the people you cherish most. Each detail, from the vows to the venue, plays a part in telling your unique love story. Remember, the most memorable weddings aren’t those that are most extravagant, but those that are truest to the couple’s heart. At least in my opinion! So, let your personality shine through on your wedding day—it's your story to tell!

If you're envisioning an intimate wedding that reflects your unique story, I would be honored to help capture every beautiful moment. Learn more about how we can work together by clicking here. I would love to connect with you and learn more about your wedding day!