One of the biggest myths in the wedding world is that there’s a “right” way to get married. Newsflash: the only thing you have to do to legally get married in Australia is say your legal vows in front of an authorised celebrant and two witnesses. That’s it. Everything else? Completely optional. And that’s where the magic lies.

Your wedding should feel like you—not a carbon copy of something you saw on Pinterest or TikTok, or a checklist of traditions you don’t even feel aligned with. If you're planning your day and are starting to feel like you're losing yourself in the pressure of what’s “normal,” take a deep breath and remember: this is your day. You get to decide what it looks like.

Here’s how to create a wedding that truly reflects you and your relationship.

Styling that tells your story

Styling is more than just picking a trending colour palette or matching bridesmaid dresses. It’s your love story in visual form. At Vows & Things, one of our favourite things to do is find the little gems in your personality and relationship—and weave them into the look of the day.

That could be as simple as using your favourite colour in a chic, elevated way (yes, you can do purple or mustard or navy in a way that is beautiful and not tacky). Or maybe it’s referencing your hobbies—books, music, travel—in subtle, stylish details.

AUTHENTICITY OVER TRADITION

Traditions are great—if they actually feel meaningful to you. But if the idea of cake cutting or a first dance doesn’t spark any joy? You absolutely do not have to include it.

One of my brides walked down the aisle to an acoustic version of Doja Cat’s “Agora Hills”, wearing blue eyeshadow and the biggest smile. Her and her partner skipped the first dance, had a private signing instead of a big moment, and the whole day was beautifully, unapologetically them.

For me personally, we had just 30 of our nearest and dearest with us, and our ceremony was deeply personal. We didn’t want to talk about gender roles, or include religious elements that didn’t feel aligned with us. Traditional vows and the usual ceremony spiels just didn’t resonate—so we wrote our own. Different friends and family members each took turns leading small parts of the ceremony, which made it feel grounded and full of love. It wasn’t about performing—it was about connection. Honest, a bit messy, and completely us. I wouldn’t change a thing.

WEAR WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL LIKE YOU

There’s no rule that says you have to wear a white dress. Or heels. Or even a dress at all.

The goal isn’t to look “bridal”—it’s to feel like your best self. Whether that’s in a bold suit, a slinky dress with pearls, or a two-piece covered in sequins. Wear what lights you up.

I’ve had brides rock statement accessories, coloured eyeshadow, boots under their gown—you name it. And it always looks amazing when the confidence comes from within.

SERVE UP THE GOOD STUFF

Forget the chicken-or-beef routine. Your wedding food is such a beautiful opportunity to share something meaningful—whether that’s your favourite comfort food, something you always eat together, or a nod to your culture.

We’ve seen everything from handmade pasta to taco trucks, Lebanese feasts, DIY bao bars, and late-night cheeseburgers handed out on the dance floor. Whatever feels you, we can make it happen.

Food is personal. It brings people together. And when it’s done with heart, it becomes something your guests remember forever.

dO IT YOUR WAY

If you take anything from this post, let it be this: you don’t have to do anything just because tradition says so. This day should feel like a reflection of you and your person. It should feel fun. Honest. Grounded. Emotional. You-shaped.

At Vows & Things, we don’t do copy-paste weddings—we get to know you. We ask the right questions, notice the details, and then dream up ways to bring your hobbies, quirks, style, and love story into the day in a way that’s elevated, intentional, and never tacky.

Because the most beautiful weddings aren’t the ones that tick every box. They’re the ones where you walk in and say, “This just feels like them.”

Let’s make that happen for you. We’d love to hear your story. Reach out here to book your free consultation—we’ll bring the creativity, you just bring yourselves.