Have an Authentic Wedding
Why Your Wedding Should Feel Like You
Weddings are magical—but let’s be honest, they can also feel like a whirlwind of expectations. From Pinterest-perfect decor to well-meaning advice from every corner of your life, it’s easy to lose sight of what really matters: celebrating your love in a way that feels true to you and your partner.
An authentic wedding isn’t about checking every box or pleasing every guest. It’s about creating a day that reflects your relationship, your values, and your shared sense of joy. Whether that means writing your own vows, skipping traditions that don’t resonate, or throwing a party that feels more like a cozy hangout than a Vegas blowout—it’s all valid.
This is your gentle reminder that your wedding doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. It just has to feel like yours.
Vows That Vibe
Your wedding vows are more than just words—they’re a reflection of your journey together and a glimpse into the life you’re building. While traditional vows have their charm, there’s no rule saying you have to stick to the script. In fact, writing your own vows can be one of the most meaningful parts of your ceremony.
Think about what makes your relationship unique. Do you bond over road trips, late-night deep talks, or shared playlists? Do you make each other laugh in ways no one else can? Your vows are the perfect place to celebrate those quirks and promises that matter most to you.
Here are a few tips to get started:
Start with a story: Share a moment that captures your love.
Be honest: Speak from the heart, even if it’s a little messy or funny.
Make promises that matter: Whether it’s “I promise to always make you coffee” or “I vow to support your dreams,” let your words reflect your real life.
Keep it simple: You don’t need to be a poet—just be yourself.
And remember, there’s no “right” way to do this. Your vows don’t have to be perfect—they just have to be you.
You Don’t Have to Please Everyone
One of the biggest myths about weddings is that they’re supposed to make everyone happy. But here’s the truth: trying to meet every single demand from friends, family, coworkers, and distant cousins can leave you feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from your own celebration.
It’s okay to say no to things that don’t feel right. Maybe your aunt insists on a specific flower arrangement, or your friend wants to give a speech that makes you cringe. You can listen with kindness, thank them for their input, and still make choices that reflect you and your partner.
Here are a few gentle ways to set boundaries:
“We appreciate your ideas, but we’re keeping things simple.”
“That’s such a sweet tradition, but we’re doing something a little different.”
“Thanks for understanding that we’re making this day our own.”
The people who love you will support your choices—even if they don’t agree with every detail. And if they don’t? That’s okay too. Your wedding is a celebration of your love, not a performance for others.
Parties That Actually Feel Like You
Let’s talk about bachelor and bachelorette parties. Somewhere along the way, these pre-wedding celebrations became synonymous with wild nights, matching outfits, and questionable decisions. But here’s the thing: your party doesn’t have to follow a script—it just has to reflect you and your crew.
If your idea of fun is hiking in the Wasatch, hosting a backyard BBQ, or spending a weekend at a cozy cabin with board games and good wine, go for it. The best parties are the ones where you feel relaxed, celebrated, and surrounded by people who get you.
Here are a few ideas to spark inspiration:
For the outdoorsy group: A day hike followed by a campfire dinner
For the chill crew: A spa day, movie marathon, or wine tasting
For the nostalgic bunch: A sleepover-style night with old photos, inside jokes, and comfort food
For the creative crowd: A DIY craft night, karaoke session, or themed costume party
The goal isn’t to impress anyone—it’s to enjoy a moment with your favorite people before the big day. Skip the pressure and plan something that feels like a celebration of you, not a checklist.
Starting New Traditions Together
Weddings are full of traditions—but that doesn’t mean you have to follow all of them. In fact, one of the most exciting parts of getting married is the chance to start new traditions that reflect your unique bond.
Maybe you want to skip the bouquet toss and instead write each other letters to open on your first anniversary. Maybe you’d rather walk down the aisle together, or have a first look in your favorite coffee shop. The beauty of starting fresh is that you get to decide what feels meaningful.
Here are a few ideas to inspire your own traditions:
Create a shared playlist of songs that tell your story and play it during dinner
Plant a tree or flower together to mark the beginning of your marriage
Write a joint wedding day journal entry to read on future anniversaries
Choose a signature dish or drink that becomes your “wedding flavor” for years to come
Traditions don’t have to be old to be powerful. When they come from the heart, they become part of your story—and that’s what makes them special.
Celebrate Your Way
Your wedding is the beginning of something beautiful—and it should feel like yours from start to finish. Whether you’re writing vows that make your partner laugh and cry, planning a party that feels like a reunion with your best friends, or starting new traditions that reflect your shared values, the most important thing is that it’s authentic.
You don’t have to follow every rule or meet every expectation. You just have to show up as yourselves, ready to celebrate the love that brought you here.
If you're looking for guidance on how to create a wedding that truly reflects your relationship, reach out to Juniper Flats Ministry and schedule a free consultation with Benny Raskin. He’s performed dozens of weddings and will work with you to start your new tradition of being happily married—your way.
