Breaking Tradition: Plan Your Wedding or Elopement with Intention and Purpose

How many of us have found ourselves strolling down the aisle on a Saturday, simply because that's the way things have always been done? But if we take a moment to stop and consider, are we choosing this day out of tradition, or because it truly reflects our values and desires for our wedding day? I'm here to propose a radical idea: what if we tossed aside tradition, tossed aside what's expected, and instead, started planning our weddings with intention and purpose?

Let's start from scratch. Before you even consider a date, start with a simple question: what's important to you and your partner? This might be your shared values, the things you love or loathe about weddings, and your expectations for the day. These answers will guide the planning process, ensuring your wedding reflects who you are as a couple.

Once you've identified what's important, it's time to look at the practical side of things. Rather than picking a date and sticking to it, why not consider your expenses and guest list first? This approach allows you to determine your monthly savings towards wedding costs, providing a realistic date based on finances rather than fantasy.

Next, it's time to assemble your wedding dream team. These are the vendors who will bring your vision to life. It's important to meet with potential vendors to ensure they understand your style and can provide the services you desire at a cost you can afford.

Now, let's talk about the ceremony. This is the main event, the reason we're all here. It's crucial to find an officiant who shares your values and can create a meaningful, personalised ceremony that truly reflects your love story.

When it comes to the details – the clothing, hair, makeup, photography, music – these should all serve to make you feel good. It's not about pleasing others or sticking to tradition; it's about creating a day that feels authentically you.

The venue sets the tone for the day. It provides the framing and the backdrop, while the styling, lighting, flowers, and catering create the atmosphere. Each element should be chosen with intention, reflecting the couple's personality and style.

Timing is everything. Start with the venue's deadline, the sunset time, and your ideal ceremony time. From there, layer in the other elements such as preparations, photos, and reception events. Communication is key here. Ensure all vendors understand your expectations and timeline to prevent any unnecessary stress.

So, what day of the week should you get married? The answer is simple: whichever day feels right for you. Be it a Monday, a Thursday, or a Sunday, the important thing is that it aligns with your values, your budget, and your vision for your wedding day.

Planning a wedding doesn't have to be a stressful, by-the-book event. With careful planning, intentional choices, and a little bit of courage, you can create a day that feels uniquely yours without blowing your budget. After all, the process should be as joyful as the day itself. So, go ahead, break tradition. Make your wedding day your own.