10 Common Wedding Ceremony Myths and How to Avoid Them
Planning a wedding can feel like navigating a maze of advice, traditions, and trends. But how much of what you've heard is actually true? Let’s bust some myths!
Hi I am Leah, if you’re new here, I am a seasoned celebrant with over 7 years of experience and a flair for creating meaningful, modern ceremonies.
My goal as always is to help couples approach their big day with confidence and clarity. So let’s get a few things straight and bust some myths.
Myth 1: You Must Include Religious Elements for It to Feel or Be 'Official'
Truth: Your ceremony can be as spiritual, secular, or unique as you want. There is nothing in the Marriage Act that states you need to have religious elements in your ceremony in order for your marriage to be legal.
Avoid It: Choose readings, vows, or rituals that reflect your personal values, whether religious or not.
Myth 2: You Need to Memorise Your Vows
Truth: Reading your vows is perfectly fine and ensures you’ll say what you mean without nerves getting in the way.
Avoid It: Work with your celebrant (cough* ME!) to craft vows that resonate and practice reading them beforehand.
Myth 3: The Ceremony Should Be Short to Avoid Bored Guests
Truth: A well-crafted ceremony, regardless of length, keeps guests engaged.
Avoid It: If you pick a celebrant (cough* ME!) that focuses on making your ceremony personal and dynamic with storytelling and interactive moments then your guests will be in the moment with you and not clock watching.
Myth 4: Only the Couple Should Speak During the Ceremony
Truth: Including friends or family for readings or blessings can add depth and inclusivity.
Avoid It: Ask your celebrant to guide, suggest and coordinate guest contributions.
Myth 5: It’s Bad Luck to See Each Other Before the Ceremony
Truth: This superstition doesn’t fit every couple. First looks are intimate and make for great photos.
Avoid It: Do what feels right for your timeline and preferences.
Myth 6: You Have to Stick to Traditional Vows
Truth: Modern couples are personalising vows to make them more meaningful and if I am being honest, they are usually the BEST part of the ceremony.
Avoid It: Ask your celebrant for a vow guide (see mine here). Don’t be afraid to infuse humour, references to your life together, or promises unique to your relationship.
Myth 7: The Celebrant’s Role is Just to Officiate
Truth: A great celebrant sets the tone of your whole wedding, we manage logistics, and tell your story designed specifically for you. SO much work goes into crafting your ceremony and preparing for the day. We also don’t just officiate your marriage, we can also MC your reception, some celebrants also offer content creation, on-the-day coordinator, be that extra set of eyes and hands for you.
Avoid It: Meet with potential celebrants to find someone who matches your style and vibe. It is so important to connect with all of your vendors especially your celebrant as they are a visual and integral part of the day.
Myth 8: You Can’t Incorporate Non-Traditional Rituals
Truth: Handfasting, unity ceremonies, or cultural elements can make your ceremony stand out.
Avoid It: Discuss creative ideas with your celebrant to weave in rituals that resonate with you. I will always encourage couples to include cultural elements that represent their heritage. It just adds more distinction!
Myth 9: You Need a Rehearsal
Truth: Whilst rehearsals smooth out nerves and logistical hiccups, your celebrant is your guide on your day and talks you through what is happening throughout the ceremony. There isn’t anything to rehearse except your walk, where to stand and how you’re going to do your kiss, all of which you don’t need your celebrant for. Your celebrant will be talking for the majority ceremony at the beginning and then when it comes to the vows, the celebrant will move between the two of you and guide you as you repeat their words or read off their kindle/paper.
Avoid It: Schedule a quick run-through with your bridal party to ensure everyone knows where they need to walk and stand. Practice your drop and kiss and your celebrant will facilitate the rest.
Myth 10: Your Ceremony Has to Be Formal
Truth: Fun, cheeky, or lighthearted ceremonies are just as impactful.
Avoid It: Be true to your personalities and let your celebrant bring out your unique vibe.
Your wedding ceremony is the heart of your big day—don’t let myths hold you back. So if you’re looking for a celebrant who busts myths and delivers unforgettable ceremonies, let’s chat!
