
Recently I performed weddings for two couples who originally planned to have a friend or relative do their ceremonies.
It was only when they looked into what goes into creating a meaningful ceremony that both couples realized they might be better off with a professional.
DIY has become really popular for weddings. There are so many things a couple–with enough time–can organize, create or put into place themselves. I have an entire Pinterest page on DIY for weddings, in fact, for that reason.
You can create your wedding to be just the way you want it if you have the time, resources, skill, and materials to do it. If any of these are limited, they might be done better by a professional, and will certainly mean less stress for you in planning the wedding!
If your photographer doesn't get the shots you really want because she or he has never photographed a wedding, those are memories you can't recapture.
If your flowers fall apart or wilt before the ceremony because your friend made a beautiful bouquet, but didn't really know which flowers would hold up and which ones wouldn't, it could put a damper on the wedding.
Having a friend or relative perform your wedding puts stress on them that reduces their ability to enjoy the day with you.
A wedding officiant is responsible to see that the legal elements of the ceremony are smoothly incorporated into the ceremony, and that everyone is at ease and enjoys a ceremony that fits the two of you well.
Your officiant should be relaxed, organized, and have good rapport with you. Be sure to meet with anyone you are considering in advance to know for sure that you want your wedding ceremony in their hands. Find out what he or she will wear and say.
Find out if there are elements you can change or add to the ceremony. Can you select the readings or write your own vows? Will there be a place to remember your grandmother who has passed on?
This is your day. Save money on things you can control and do well. Invest in your memories with professionals who are well-equipped to make your wedding day as beautiful as possible for you, not only on the day, but each year as you celebrate your anniversary and remember it.