KEEP YOUR WEDDING TRUE TO YOU: Ditching the Script for Authentic Moments

Philippine weddings are renowned for their vibrant traditions and elaborate celebrations. However, as a wedding photographer, I've noticed that many weddings follow a templated format, packed with activities that can be both unnecessary and energy-consuming. Couples often feel pressured to include early morning robe shoots, boxer shorts shoots, and orchestrated gift-giving sessions. While these activities can be fun and memorable, they sometimes make the wedding day feel scripted and less personal, leaving couples exhausted before the main event.

Instead of feeling obligated to include every traditional activity, consider focusing on what truly matters to you. Simplifying the wedding timeline can help maintain your energy levels, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable celebration. By cutting down on early call times and spending quality moments with family and loved ones, your wedding day can feel more genuine and special.

Remember, it's perfectly okay to eliminate activities that add unnecessary stress. Prioritize what makes you happy and ensures your wedding day is a beautiful reflection of your love and personality. Celebrate in a way that feels authentic to you, and your day will be filled with joy and cherished memories. Read more.

SIMPLIFYING THE WEDDING TIMELINE: A REAL-LIFE EXAMPLE. 10-HOURS LESS COVERAGE.

One of the most memorable weddings I’ve photographed recently was that of Amrit and Kena, a couple who chose to simplify their wedding timeline and focus on what truly mattered to them. Their approach to their wedding day was a breath of fresh air and a reminder that weddings should be about the couple and their love story, rather than sticking to a prescribed template.

The Planning Process

Initially, Amrit and Kena considered having a big 3-day Indian wedding. They even went so far as to scout for venues. However, the extensive to-do list quickly became overwhelming. They realized that they didn’t want to spend all their energy on planning a huge event. Instead, they wanted to focus on simply being married and enjoying the next chapter of their lives together.

Amrit mentioned that he has relatives all over the world, making lodging and transportation arrangements a logistical nightmare. One evening, Amrit’s mom casually suggested having a small wedding, which immediately resonated with Kena. Both sets of parents were supportive of their decision, which made them feel more confident about going against the grain.

Key Elements Focused

For Amrit and Kena, the wedding had to be “US.” They leveraged their personal strengths to manage the planning process. Kena, with her background in event organization, took charge of the planning, while Amrit, who had experience handling finances from his sister’s wedding, managed the budget. They dedicated specific planning days each week, which allowed them to maintain a balanced life and avoid becoming consumed by wedding preparations.

Hiring a great team of suppliers was crucial to their success. Their coordinator, Kim Torres Events, ensured that their ideas were polished and executed perfectly. Their photo and video teams, me and my team, Jexter Jordan Fine Art Weddings and Videoboy, respected their request for no forced or staged poses, resulting in authentic and beautiful images that truly reflected their day.

Impact on Guests

Their guests noticed and appreciated the difference in their simplified wedding. Up to this day, guests still tell Amrit and Kena how their wedding was so “them,” which is one of the highest compliments a couple can receive.

Emotional Experience

Simplifying the wedding made the entire experience more enjoyable and less stressful for Amrit and Kena. By planning together and making sure they both agreed on every detail, they were able to focus on what truly mattered. They emphasized the importance of having supportive families and a great team of suppliers who listened to their requests.

Amrit and Kena’s advice to other couples considering a similar approach is simple: GO FOR IT! Do what feels right for you. They found that this approach allowed them to fully soak in every moment of their wedding day, without the rush and stress that often accompanies templated weddings.

Unexpected Benefits

One of the unexpected benefits of their unconventional wedding was the ability to fully absorb and enjoy every moment. Their wedding ensured they were calm and stress-free, with no early wake-ups or rushed preparations. They spent quality time together and with their loved ones. Their unplugged ceremony meant everyone was fully present, resulting in incredible wedding photos.

A relax moment during her prep time waiting for her bridesmaids to finish up.

Reflection and Satisfaction

Looking back, Amrit and Kena are extremely satisfied with their decision to focus on what should be the real timeline of a wedding. Their wedding day was filled with love and joy, exactly how they wanted it to be.

Comparison with Traditional Weddings

Amrit and Kena’s wedding differed from traditional weddings in several ways. They walked down the aisle together, skipped the pre-gown entourage shoot, and played fun songs, making their wedding truly memorable. They believe that more couples are opting for intimate weddings and appreciating the different ways to get married without following templated formats

Amrit & Kena chooses to walk the aisle together

Conclusion

Weddings should reflect the couple’s true essence, free from the pressures of scripted activities. As a photographer, I cherish capturing authentic moments that tell a couple’s unique story. I'm not against those preparation activities. If you want to have it, so be it, we will capture it. But don't be forced to have it. But I want you to embrace simplicity, focus on what truly matters, and make your wedding day genuinely yours. Amrit and Kena’s wedding is a perfect example of how wonderful and fulfilling a wedding can be when it is true to the couple’s vision and values.