Your wedding ceremony is the heart of your special day. It is a profound expression of the love you share and where it all began. Your ceremony is the kick-off for your entire wedding. For many couples, this is a sacred moment filled with symbolism and traditions, and on the other hand, it is a profession of love and commitment. Most importantly, this is the beginning of your life together and the continuation of your epic love story.
What is a wedding officiant
As you begin searching for your vendors, you realize there is a large variety of officiant services out there. All have varied backgrounds, training, styles, and experience to offer for your wedding. You may ask yourself, what exactly is a wedding officiant? Simply stated, a person who legally performs your wedding ceremony – aka the one who makes it officially official! Whether you’re saying “I Do” in a church, on the beach, or under a canopy of string lights in your backyard, your officiant is the one leading the moment that seals the deal.
Your officiant is more than just a formality, they set the ton for your ceremony. They help guide the flow, share your love story, and ensure all the legal vow and paperwork are done right. Some officiants are religious leaders, while others are non-denominational professionals. You also have the opportunity to have a family member or close friend (who must be ordained) be your officiant.
Pro Tip: Choose someone who gets you. The right officiant will personalize the ceremony, reflect your values, and make your wedding feel like it was made just for you – because it is.
Married by Mariella, Wedding Officiant
Photo provided by Steven Miller Photography
How to Personalize Your Wedding Ceremony
Your ceremony should be as unique as your love story. Personalize your big day by ditching the cookie-cutter script and create a moment that truly reflects who you are as a couple. From the vows you write to the rituals you include, every detail becomes a powerful expression of your journey together. Check out some of the unique ways you can incorporate traditions and personalization into your ceremony.
Personalizing Vows
While traditional vows have their charm and elegance, writing your own promises allow you to convey feelings authentically. Start by sharing your personal anecdotes and commitments to each other. Furthermore, make the moment deeply intimate for both you and your guests. It can be a whispered promise or a bold declaration; this is meant for you and your partner.
Incorporate a Unity Ritual
Unity ceremonies symbolize the joining of two lives. Modern couples are embracing unique rituals like planting a tree together, blending different wines, or creating a piece of art during their ceremony. These acts not only represent your union but also leave you with a lasting keepsake. Our very own I Said Yes FL team member included the Celtic hand fasting ceremony to reflect her husband’s Irish roots.
Involve Loved Ones
Engage your family and friends by inviting them to participate actively. This can happen in various ways, including readings, musical performances, or shared blessings. This involvement adds a layer of meaning and showcases the support and love surrounding your relationship.
Choose Meaningful Music
The song(s) you use in your wedding ceremony have the ability to resonate with your journey together. Whether it’s a live performance of “your song” or instrumental versions of favorites, music sets the emotional tone and reflects your shared tastes. Many local wedding DJs and live entertainment artists have the ability to personalize your music.
Opt for Non-Traditional Seating
You don’t have to stick with tradition. Rethink your ceremony layout and try something unique that sparks your curiosity or excitement. Arrange your seating in a circular formation around you to create an intimate atmosphere. Alternatively, try ditching the traditional rows and go full-on cozy with lounge-style seating. Think vintage sofas, chic loveseats, poufs, and rattan chairs arranged in clusters or semi-circles. It’s perfect for creating a laid-back, intimate vibe that feels more like a stylish garden party than a formal affair.
Ultimately, this is your journey and love story being told to family and friends. Personalize every aspect or stick to tradition; your wedding ceremony should reflect you. With your local wedding vendors, you have the opportunity to create something magical.
This lakeside wedding venue was exactly what Martha & TeVaun’s wanted for their outdoor ceremony and reception. Both were held at the Lakeside Enclave in Groveland, Florida. The Lakeside Enclave is a sprawling property that includes a lakefront ceremony area and outdoor covered reception area made of repurposed storage containers. Additionally, there is a quaint and stylish guesthouse on the property. As well as a firepit and lakeside dock area. Without a doubt this property is a nature lover’s dream that celebrates the beauty of Central Florida and its many lakes.
Getting Ready
To get ready on site ,the Bride took advantage of the guest house. Her photographer from M.A.D. Images came early to get photos of her during the hair and makeup process. As a result they were also able to get some beautiful photos of Martha and her Mother putting on her veil. Meanwhile, TeVaun was already dressed and ready. He had photos taken with close family and friends outside while they waited for the ceremony to begin.
Lakeside Wedding Ceremony
The couple had an intimate wedding with 29 guests present. As you can see, the ceremony took place at the lakefront area under the large Oak Tree. Further, the long brick aisleway underneath the trellis made for a gorgeous entrance. One other thing, the couple added a fun triangular arch behind them during the ceremony. The trellis has bougainvillea flowers growing around it and the couple hung beautiful white draping to complete the romantic ceremony look.
cocktail hour
After the ceremony, guests headed over to the cocktail hour area. Allowing the wedding party to take the remainder of their photos. The Lakeside Enclave venue offers ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception spaces all at the same location. Therefore, guests are able to walk to each event space. During this time, Martha & TeVaun’s DJ got the party started while their guests enjoyed some adult beverages and passed appetizers provided by Cocktails Catering.
Dinner & Reception
After Cocktail Hour, guests headed to the covered reception space to get ready for the dinner portion of the evening. The reception space at Lakeside Enclave is like no other. For example, the reception area can seat 150 guests. And has fresh brick paving, as well as, market lights. In fact, the two outsides of the covered area are made up of repurposed storage containers. Admittedly giving a different look than your typical outdoor wedding. Inside the storage containers there are designated spaces for catering staff and buffet, bartender, DJ, and cake. There are cutouts in each storage container so that they operate similar to service windows.
The guests enjoyed the unique setup and the couple had their dance floor in the center of the dinner area. Before dinner, the couple had their first dance as husband and wife. Dinner was served buffet style and provided by Cocktails Catering.
Following the cutting of the cake, the guests enjoyed dancing and cocktails for the remainder of the evening. Even after dark, the cocktail hour and reception area remain well-lit by the market lighting throughout the venue.
At the end of the evening, Martha and TeVaun did a grand exit by running through the lit trellis while their guests wished them well!
Blog content provided by The Enclave. The following wedding vendors helped create the perfect lakeside wedding for Martha & TreVaun:
This rustic ranch wedding venue provided a stunning backdrop for this real wedding in Apopka, FL. Certainly Club Lake Plantation and its lush landscape and venue options are wonderful just as it is. However, Brittney and Michael wanted to add their personality into their wedding. For instance, fun glasses, silly photos and socks to name a few.
You and Your I Do Crew
Brittney and Michael spent the morning with their I DO Crews. Without a doubt the bride and her bridesmaids celebrated the day in true style. Starting with monogramed matching outfits. Paired with love shades and of course champagne. Once it was time to get wedding ready, they slipped into their beautiful green gowns.
Similarly, Michael and the gents sported custom suits. In fact, each groomsmen personalized the lining of their suit. Adding to the style of this fun wedding was the groomsmen’s socks.
Rustic Ranch Wedding Venue
Club Lake Plantation is the epitome of rustic ranch wedding venues. The property has two lakes and is surrounded by live oaks and beautiful landscape. Further the outdoor ceremony space provides an unforgettable setting for your perfect wedding day.
Before the ceremony Brittney and Michael did a first look with the lush landscape as the backdrop. Following that, Brittney entered the ceremony through a set of barn doors.
Brittney and Michael added their personal touches to the ceremony in a variety of ways. Starting with the gorgeous white, pink and green florals on the arch. And we absolutely must show off the most amazing flower guy ever! Who may, or may not, have also passed out beer as he proceeded down the aisle. Coupled with the surprise of the best wedding pet attendants ever, who made quite an entrance of their own. Admittedly one of our favorite wedding ceremonies to date.
They did it Their Way
We always say, “Do your wedding your way.” Unquestionably, Brittney and Michael have a great group of friends that helped them celebrate in a uniquely personal way. This dream wedding day was relaxed, fun and guest-focused. All the while being true to the new Mr. and Mrs. personalities.
For example, the reception was filled with dancing, good times and a celebration of the newly married couple. Ending in a sparkler exit.
Wedding professionals who contributed to this rustic ranch wedding:
Get inspired to plan your dream wedding with more wedding blog inspiration on I Said Yes!
We used a recent I Said Yes! event to create a fall-inspired styled shoot. Certainly bringing together a variety of ideas and inspiration to showcase this wedding theme idea. As usual, pumpkins and fall colors. However, some additional fun elements were added also.
Pumpkins and Fall colors
Without a doubt each element of this fall-inspired styled shoot was carefully picked and placed. Starting with burnt orange table runners atop wooden farm tables and chairs. Next each table held various pumpkins. For example, blown glass, burlap and painted. Coupled with decorated lanterns and the soft glow of candles. Finishing with ivory linen napkins and wooden napkin rings on white plates with wicker chargers.
Fall-inspired styled shoot turned oktobefest
Assuredly you can kick this fall inspiration up a notch. Or you can tone it down. Of course, we chose to kick it up. Correspondingly turning it into an Oktoberfest. That is to say we themed the food and the beverages as well. First an appetizer of beer cheese and pretzels. Next Apple Cider Mimosas and beer from Castle Church Brewing. Third a meal including chicken schnitzel and pumpkin bread pudding by River City Catering.
Furthermore the beer was served from a mobile bar that this venue allows inside. Along with a beautiful interior and exterior, the Backyard Gatherings Mobile Bar has a built in photo backdrop. Likewise the VW Bus DJ booth by Mix on Wheels kept the energy high and provided a fun photo booth at the back. One other thing, we ended the meal with Sunset Creamery Gelato Cart, hand dipped and served in delicious cones.
Unquestionably we want you to have your perfect wedding. Without a doubt, the one you have been dreaming of. So to help you with your wedding planning, we invite you to to get inspired with more real weddings and styled shoots featured on the I Said Yes! Wedding Blog. As well as access to The Best Free Wedding Planning Checklist.
This sunset beach wedding is what dreams are made of. Without a doubt the photographer, Carrie Wildes Photography, captured this bride and groom at the perfect moment. In fact, at the exact moment when a rainbow appeared in the background.
perfect photo spots everywhere
Unquestionably the Sandpearl Resort Clearwater Beach was an excellent choice for this couples wedding venue. Because it offers both indoor and outdoor options with stunning views of the beach and the ocean beyond. For this reason, Ruthann and Tony were blessed with a variety of perfect photo spots for their wedding memories.
Starting with the sweet first look. Admittedly this artwork is the photographers favorite indoor spot. Next the ceremony was performed on the lawn, overlooking the gulf. In fact, you don’t even have to touch the sand if you don’t want to. Third, the happy couples family and friends posed for a fun photo on the balconies. Above all, the sunset photos on the beach of just Ruthann and Tony.
Intimate Sunset Beach wedding Ceremony
Along with their closest friends and family, Ruthann and Tony said I Do at their intimate sunset beach wedding. Before the wedding they enjoyed time with their friends celebrating the joy of the day. In fact, one of their dearest friends officiated the wedding. As a result, right before Tony walked down the aisle, they stopped and said a quick prayer.
The tropical palm leaves with the bright pinks and oranges looked amazing on the arch. And we can’t forget the sounds and colors of the ocean in the background. Likewise the florals by Artistry Designs Group made a colorful statement against Ruthann’s white wedding dress.
Reception Details
After the gorgeous ceremony, they moved inside for the wedding reception. Of course the pink and orange florals were used to adorn the table. Similarly a single flower was placed on each pink napkin. Then set on top of gold charges. Coupled with white chairs and table linens, this wedding reception was a beautiful reflection of the couples love. Furthermore, sushi was served as an appetizer. Certainly fitting to the sunset beach wedding theme.
sunset beach wedding
Ruthann told the photographer they were hoping for a beautiful sunset. Singularly true to Clearwater beach fashion, it did not disappoint! That is to say, as they went down to the water at sunset, there was a perfect rainbow behind Ruthann and Tony. Congratulations you two, we wish you a lifetime of amazing sunsets!
Wedding Vendors who contributed to this perfect wedding:
This Florida backyard wedding was a dream come true for the bride and groom. High School sweethearts, Sierra and Gabe, celebrated their love surrounded by their family and closest friends. They prepared their list of non-negotiables and sentimental touches. Picked the perfect backyard wedding venue. Then, along with their wedding planner, created the perfect outdoor wedding.
Wedding Day Non-Negotiables
From the beginning of the wedding planning process, Sierra had a short list of non-negotiables. That is to say, the things that absolutely must be a part of the wedding. First, get married under a tree. Second, market lights. Third, farm tables. Last, lots of greenery and white flowers. As a result, the wedding was exactly as the couple dreamed it would be. For this reason, her advice to you, as a fellow bride, stick to your non-negotiables. In other words, if it is that important to you, don’t negotiate it out of your wedding. Do your wedding, your way.
Light wood farm tables were complimented by gold Chiavari chairs and chargers. Chargers provided by Orlando Wedding and Party Rentals. Additionally softening the room was the floor to ceiling draping. Lastly, the mood was set with the market lights by Get Lit Productions.
Before The wedding
Sierra and Gabe decided not do to a first look. Instead, they wanted their first look to be at the altar. Ultimately where they would join their hearts and their families together as one. Therefore, before the ceremony, they took time for some pre-wedding photos to show off their personal style.
For example, the groom chose a pale blue suit with a tropical lining. His paprika tie coordinated with the girls’ dresses perfectly. And his suspenders matched his groomsmen.
Sierra’s dress is from David’s Bridal and she always knew she would wear tennis shoes under her wedding dress. Adding to her look is the soft, natural hair and make up by Karmel Design Team. To touch on the grooms Irish heritage, the bride’s ring has Celtic knots.
Family is everything
Celebrating their love with family was paramount for this couple. In fact, they included family members in all aspects of this big day. Starting with including their siblings in the wedding party. Along with their dog Koda.
The grooms Irish heritage is very important to him. So during the wedding, the grooms father performed a traditional Irish hand tying ceremony. Further the brides grandfather officiated the wedding.
To demonstrate honor to family members who have passed, the couple added some sweet details. For instance, the yellow flowers were for the grooms grandmother. Likewise the bride’s bouquet was wrapped in a special fabric. It came from the bride’s grandmother’s wedding dress. Added to it was lace from the bride’s great grandmother. Finishing with hand painting by the bride’s grandmother.
Finally, to top it off, this backyard wedding took place on family property.
Sister Squad
Without a doubt, Sierra wanted her sisters to be by her side on this special day. These sisters have been best friends since birth. From silly antics to serious poses, this sister squad is inseparable. Bridesmaids dresses are in paprika from Azazie.
Brothers and the grooms best friends
When choosing his groomsmen, Gabe knew exactly who to ask. Starting with his younger brother Drew. Then including his two best friends. One from childhood and one from college. Surely we can’t forget the best wedding pet attendant, Koda.
Sentimental Touches
Sentimental elements added to the family focus of this Florida backyard wedding. Yellow roses honoring the grooms grandmother. Likewise the bridal bouquet wrap created from family heirlooms. Subsequently, each piece kept loved ones close.
The Ceremony
This wedding was full of sentiment. But also tons of fun and laughter. For instance, the father of the bride snapped a selfie walking to the ceremony with his little girl.
Every girls dream is to have her man love her this much. Certainly there was not a dry eye in the place when the groom saw his bride for the first time. True love is a beautiful thing.
Celebrating the Irish heritage, the grooms father performed a hand tying ceremony. Further the rope was made by the grooms father. A cord of three strands is not easily broken.
Let The Party Begin
After some puppy love, the new Mr. and Mrs. celebrated their marriage with a fun first dance. Likewise, the bride and father of the bride surprised everyone with a choreographed dance of their own. After some food and socializing. It was cake time. Sugar Sugar Cake Boutique provided a beautiful 3 tier wedding cake and gold cake stand.
Before the evening was over, the littlest wedding guest stole the dance floor with his moves. And his killer style.
the perfect ending to a backyard wedding
Absolutely no wedding should end without a sparkler exit by FyerFly Productions. Ending the evening with a true celebration of love and life. Congratulations Sierra and Gabe, may your life be filled with happiness and joy. Let the adventure being.
Orlando Wedding Vendors who contributed to this wedding:
This Florida wedding reception has us swooning. Undoubtedly from the tropical greenery to the modern farmhouse back drop, this styled shoot is everything we love above Florida weddings.
Tropical Greenery Everywhere
Modern tropics is so perfect for the Florida bride and groom. Admittedly the team of vendors first thought of birds of paradise and flamingos. However, that style would not show off the gorgeous venue. Instead they wanted something more modern and classic. For all those reasons, the photographer, Kristine of Honeywood Photography, said this about the choice of greenery – “I feel like florals play such an important role in creating the vibe of the wedding. Further the greenery adds a classy touch. However, florals go in and out of season. Subsequenly, the styled shoot team chose to use mostly greenery in the design. Because it is year round and can be done in an elegant way.”
Florida Wedding Reception
The venue, Cypress Creek Farmhouse, in Astatula, FL, wanted to set up this styed shoot just as if a wedding was going on. For example, there was a fully set up outdoor ceremony area. Next, a reception room with a DJ. Finally, to add a bit of whimsy and fun, Orlando Photo Bus, a vintage Volkswagen Bus was added. Correspondingly, the models, whom are a real couple, said they should have renewed their vows because it was so perfectly set.
wedding bouquet drama
With a color scheme of white, black, gold and greenery the wedding bouquet is sure to wow. Accordingly, Le Fleur Atelier created this bouquet. No doubt it is what wedding bouquet dreams are made of. Thus we absolutely had to share it with you.
dress detail
In contrast to the drama of the wedding bouquet. We give you this simply elegant wedding dress from Solutions Bridal. As you can see, the front lays beautifully without being too revealing. Likewise the open back with the long, thin looping bow. Looking for your perfect wedding dress, try a Virtual Styling Experiences with Solutions Bridal.
Wedding Expert Advice
In conclusion, we asked the photographer what she learned while on location at this styled shoot. Kristen said, “This is a lesson that I have already learned. In fact this day reinforced it. The lesson is to work with an amazing vendor team, it will make such a big difference on wedding day. That is to say, when everyone is nice, friendly extremely talented and always brings their A game. Without a doubt, magic will happen.”
To create the best dang Florida barn wedding ever, Sarah and Nick started by choosing their wedding venue. BLB Hacienda is a breathtaking barn venue and horse farm where you get up close and personal with stunning retired Disney horses who now live on the property. The venue website says you will be enchanted by the beautiful landscape and features. Next the barn was decorated romantically with garden style décor. Sarah’s sister, Heather, transformed the space into the bride’s vision of her dream wedding. As a result, they achieved the garden style look she wanted with-in the barn wedding venue.
Creating the Garden Style Decor
The bride wanted garden style décor. To achieve this, the wedding venue was filled with a variety of décor. For example, different height centerpieces with candelabras, floral and candles. Further with lanterns and greenery. The sweetheart table was framed by two trees. In addition, “The Lupos” sign made a statement backdrop on the hedge walls behind the sweetheart table. Likewise the brides bouquet used the wedding colors of ivory, blush, gold and greenery.
The detail shots
The groom, Nick, is a whiskey and cigar guy. So the photographer, Angelika Krug Photography created this special memento just for the groom. That is to say she shot a detail of his favorite Jack Daniels whiskey, and his wedding day shoes and tie. Similarly the brides beautiful shoes and wedding rings were also captured as a special memory.
Father of the bride
Above all, are the sweet moments shared with family. The Father of the Bride gave a speech about the couple. He told everyone a story about how his little girl was always his “Sarah Cinderella”. To clarify, from the time she was a little girl, he would dress her up for church. When he did his first look with Sarah in her wedding gown, he said that today, she truly is, his “Sarah Cinderella”.
special moments for everyone
Sarah was also able to spend special time with her sisters and mother. For instance, while she was getting ready, her mother helped her with her veil. Further, several of the bridesmaids were her sisters.
The Best Dang Florida Barn Wedding Ever
Starting with the gorgeous barn wedding venue as the backdrop. Then adding all the beautiful garden style décor. Next the simple touches of the Jack Daniels Whiskey for the groom and “The Lupos” sign. Further the special moments with the family. Last the joining of Sarah and Nick as husband and wife. In conclusion, these elements all came together to give Sarah and Nick their dream wedding and we believe the best dang Florida barn wedding ever.
These wedding vendors helped Sarah and Nick create their perfect wedding:
A wedding reception venue can be uniquely styled to match your wedding design. The same venue can look completely different depending on the décor and design. In this installment of our Florida Wedding Venue series, we look at Paradise Cove and two different holiday events.
Tucked away in a private corner of Lake Buena Vista, Paradise Cove is an idyllic oasis on the shores of Lake Bryan. Complete with white sandy beaches, swaying palms, and cypress trees. In addition, twinkling lights and tiki torches add to the magical glow of this secluded paradise. The natural and scenic beauty of Lake Bryan creates a wonderful backdrop for the ultimate wedding in paradise. Continue reading to see how you can create this into your own personally designed paradise.
Chandeliers - crystal or floral?
Atmospheres Floral and Decor created two stunningly different looks with the chandeliers. First is a colorful array of florals and greenery suspended with-in gorgeous wooden chandeliers. Pulling in the bright wedding colors and the wooden elements, an almost boho-chic-modern holiday was fashioned. The chandeliers are complemented by a simple white celing drape. In contrast, the second option is adorned with crystals and lights to soften and light the ceiling. This elegant chandelier is the perfect option to compliment the-over-the-top floral ceiling installation. As a result, both options provide a completely different look and feel to this wedding reception venue.
talk about ceiling drama
We absolutely must stop to admire the floral ceiling installation completed by Atmospheres Floral and Décor in the photo on the right above. If you want a statement piece for your wedding reception venue décor – look up and dream big. You cannot go wrong with a floral installation. To sum up this wedding decoration option – go big and get married!
floral and décor at your Wedding REception VEnue
Work closely with your floral designer to pick the centerpieces and décor that best fit your style and budget. First choose the type of table and seating you want for your wedding reception guests. Do you want family style like the top row of photos below, or more intimate seating like the examples in the bottom row? Can’t decide – do some of both.
Second, choose your place settings and consider the amount of room each will consume on the table.
Lastly, balance the room. If you go big on the ceiling, balance it more simply on the table. If you go more simple on the ceiling – add more drama to your table.
cake and dessert
Choose the cake or dessert option that appeals to your sweet tooth. For example, you like chocolate and your fiancé likes vanilla. That’s ok, get multiple flavors of cupcakes or different flavored tiers of cake.
Share your wedding style and décor options with your cake designer so your cake is a sweet compliment to your reception space.
In conclusion, when it comes to dessert, you can’t go wrong. The two styles featured here are simple cupcakes and a simple 3 tier cake with some flower drama.
entertain your guests
Your wedding reception is your time to celebrate love and happiness. Surprise your guests with live entertainment. If your wedding reception venue has space, the options are endless.
First start with your DJ to keep the party going all night and to control the energy in the room with the music selection.
Second provide a live entertainment performance that wows your guests. For example, the two events featured here had: Samba dancers by Spirit of Samba; an artist creating personalized wedding favors by Leo’z Arts & Photography; Santa, Mrs. Claus and Elf provided by P.S. I Love You Productions; snow princess by Key Artist Group; and a champagne girl.
To sum up, design your reception to match your unique wedding style. Each wedding reception venue can be decorated differently to show off you and your fiancé on your special day. Whether you go big and dramatic or small and simple, at the end of the day, you have married your best friend.