• Featured
  • You
  • Wisdom
  • Made
  • Honeymoons
  • Directory
  • Podcast
  • Shop
  • Advertise
  • About
  • Directory
  • Shop
  • Podcast
  • Contact Us
  • Make A Submission
  • Login
  • Register

Eight Easy & Cool Ways To Personalise Your Wedding Ceremony

09.10.20
Ceremony Wisdom Wisdom

As a celebrant, I am always banging on about the importance of the ceremony. Not only is it the moment where you actually become married, it kick starts the whole celebration and sets the vibe for the rest of the day.

I love the way the wedding industry has evolved, even in the past five years I have been a celebrant. Couples are really understanding now the importance of the ceremony, the value of a s**t hot celebrant in creating the magic and the flexibility that comes with a modern civil ceremony.

There is absolutely no reason you should have to settle for a stuffy, soulless celebration… unless of course beige and boring is your vibe. So do your research, choose the right person to steer your love boat and make sure they are writing your ceremony from scratch!

As obvious as it sounds, that really is the key piece to the personalised puzzle. The content of the ceremony itself is where the real magic lies and if done well, it will celebrate your love story, your individuality and set the mood for the biggest party of your lives.

But aside from booking an amazing celebrant and a team of vendors who are ready to run with your vision, here are a few other ways you can take your ceremony from beige to bangin’ and leave all your guests raving about it being totally ‘you’.

1. Signature Drink on Arrival

If you don’t mind a tipple yourselves, chances are your mates will love a welcome drink. You can tailor it to suit your vibe and tastes. Whether it be mimosas, aperol spritz, personalised craft beer or a concoction of your own, your guests will immediately relax into celebration mode with drink in hand.

2. Signage or Order of Service

A perfect way to speak your language as a couple. Welcome signs are super popular at ceremonies nowadays as they tie in the styling, but you can also use them to assert your voice by leaving a quirky message for your guests.

The order of service (little ceremony program) isn’t something you see too commonly outside of the church, but when it is done creatively, it can also be such a great way to put a stamp of individuality on the day. I have seen hilarious wedding party bios in ceremony programs, instructions for treasure hunts or reception games or even lyrics for group sing-a-longs.

You can also use it to express your values as a couple. Perhaps you have donated money to a charity close to your heart instead of doing bomboniere. Let them know in your program and encourage them to do the same if they wish.

3. Tunes

If you aren’t blissing out to ‘Cannon in D’ on the daily, then don’t feel the need to walk down the aisle to it. Music is one of the most powerful ways to incorporate your personalities and passions throughout the whole day and this includes the ceremony. Go. To. Town.

4. Processional

So what is a processional anyway?! It’s the entrance, a potentially grand and dramatic moment where you see your love in their wedding day get-up for the first time. However, it doesn’t need to look anything like in the movies if that’s not your vibe. It’s a moment full of feels, but for some full of anxiety just at the thought, so feel free to ditch tradition and make it suit your personalities.

That may mean you rock it out down that aisle hand in hand to your fave party tune, or perhaps you are both already there mingling with your guests as they arrive. Whatever it looks like, make sure it feels comfortable and right for you.

5. Vows

I always encourage my couples to have a crack at writing their own vows. It’s an incredibly special opportunity to spill your guts in front of all your faves, but most importantly in front of your lifer.

Personal vows are a game changer when you’re aiming for a ceremony that really reflects you and your lover lover.

6. Include Others

I am a big fan of having special people involved in your ceremony, but that doesn’t mean they have to get up there and deliver a stale old reading with no relevance to your modern marriage. They can tell part of your story, add some juicy tidbits I may not have been told, or give you some good old marriage advice of their own.

They could also sing, play music, sign as your witnesses, hold up your piñata as you smash it or come dressed as Mr Darcy from Pride & Prejudice and challenge the groom to a duel. And yes, they are all real examples. Point being, there ain’t no rules.

7. Salute!

I love ending a ceremony with a toast or a special drink. It’s a great vibe and can be a really symbolic way to start your shared celebration and a really personal and unique ceremony memory.

Word to the wise, avoid fireball. Everyone would prefer Nanna to keep her bra on at the reception.

8. Ditch the Weird Traditions

Sometimes it’s not only what you include in your ceremony that makes it unique, it’s what you leave out and there are many weird traditions that can move straight to trash. Unless you see yourself as a dowry, don’t be given away. Don’t exchange rings if you don’t want to and don’t carry flowers if it’s not your thing. Allow your guests to sit on whichever side they choose, in fact don’t even give them chairs at all.

You do you babes and everyone will love it to pieces!

Ms Floral Says: Hooray! We are all for injecting as much as your personality as possible into your wedding, and it just makes sense to do this in the ceremony! Thanks for your words of wisdom, Amy.

About Amy Watson: Amy is a Sydney based marriage celebrant and MC who has been shaking up ceremonies since 2015.  She has a unique and modern approach to marriage making, with the aim of always reflecting the individuality of each couple and giving their love the celebration it deserves. Like a perfectly mixed margarita, she balances those upbeat and celebratory vibes with sincerity, sensitivity, a pinch of sass and a whole lot of love.

BY
Amy Watson
PHOTOGRAPHY
Kieran Moore Photography
VIEW FULL PHOTO GALLERY
The Ceremony Issue

Your ceremony is the heart of your big day. Your moment to profess your love and commitment.

Let us show you how to make it a moment to remember.

READ MORE
Wedding Directory

Search our Vendors

View Vendors
OR SEEK A VENDOR BY NAME...

More for you...

Polka Dot Featured
Jordon & Mark’s Botanical Glam Wedding on the Tweed Coast
For today’s feature, think botanical beauty meets modern glam. This wedding was at the effortlessly lush Botanica Plantation House, where […]
READ MORE
Polka Dot You
Zoe & Brendan’s Fun and Romantic DIY Wedding in Mackay
  Zoe and Brendan’s fun and romantic DIY wedding in Mackay, was a heartfelt, non-traditional celebration filled with emotion, connection, […]
READ MORE
Polka Dot Wisdom
Love Blooms Twice – Smart Ways to Repurpose Your Wedding Flowers
There’s something undeniably magical about fresh florals for your wedding – the way they transform a space, set the tone, […]
READ MORE
Vincent Mango tropical wedding cocktail recipe by Rooftop at QT Melbourne
Polka Dot Made
Cocktail Friday: Vincent Mango by QT Rooftop Melbourne
  Dreaming of a tropical wedding but tied to a rooftop in Melbourne? It’s Cocktail Friday and we’re sharing a […]
READ MORE
Polka Dot Honeymoons
Phuket Wedding Dreams Come True at COMO Point Yamu Resort
  Phuket wedding dreams come true today on Polka Dot Honeymoons – and our resident honeymoon expert, Lisa Perkovic is […]
READ MORE

Story credits

This story also features the following wedding vendors.
If you've been featured below, we'd love to get to know you. Click here to join Polka Dot Wedding.
Photographer
Kieran Moore Photography
Author & Celebrant
Amy Watson
Venue
Terara Riverside Gardens
Coordination & Planning
Hire A Bridesmaid
Flowers
Lisa Louise Floral Design
Grazing
The Event Folk
Catering
Foodie Del Mar
Beverages
The Airstream Social
Lighting
Luminous Entertainment
Hairstylist
Absolute Hair by Tia
Makeup Artist
The Makeup Society
Live Music
Shaun Wessel Music
DJ
Cass Greaves
Custom Signage & Invites
Ben Mayo

Join the conversation Cancel Reply

One comment

  1. Pingback: Friday Roundup Wedding Blog - Polka Dot Bride

Follow Us on Instagram...

@polkadotwedding
Your wedding flowers deserve a second act. After t Your wedding flowers deserve a second act. After the "I do's" are done, what happens to all those gorgeous blooms?⁠
⁠
On Polka Dot Wisdom, Sydney florist @kris.floraldesign is sharing beautiful, practical ways to repurpose your wedding flowers - from reusing ceremony florals at your reception to gifting arrangements or donating them to spread even more love. ⁠
⁠
Planning a celebration with heart and purpose? This one’s for you! ⁠
⁠
Tap the link in bio to read the full guide.⁠
⁠
Photography: @momentsphotographyau⁠
⁠
[Image description: A close-up of a bride and her bridesmaids holding vibrant, garden-style floral arrangements in woven baskets. The bouquets feature a mix of pink, peach, coral, purple, and yellow blooms including roses, ranunculus, and sweet peas. The bridesmaids wear soft blue pleated and ruffled dresses, while the bride wears a white gown with delicate tulle details. The overall vibe is joyful, romantic, and fresh, perfect for a spring or summer wedding.]⁠
⁠
#PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #AustralianWeddings #AustralianWedding #PolkaDotWisdom #WeddingPro #WeddingVendor #WeddingProfessional #WeddingInterview #SustainableWedding #EcoFriendlyWedding #WeddingFlowers #WeddingFlowerIdeas #WeddingFloralIdeas #WeddingBouquet  #WeddingFlorist #Bouquet #Bouquets #AustralianBouquet #FlowerInspo #BouquetInspo #FloralDesign #Flowers #BridalBouquet #BouquetInspiration #FloralWeddingDress #FloralBridesmaidDress
“It was so helpful having our stylist set everyt “It was so helpful having our stylist set everything up on the day – it meant we didn’t have to think about a thing.” – @jordonsteketee ⁠
⁠
Set against the lush, green backdrop of @botanicaplantationhouse, Jordon and Mark’s wedding was a masterclass of modern elegance and soft, botanical charm. ⁠
⁠
With @jj_style_co bringing their vision to life and @wilde.visual capturing each moment with care, their day was filled with beauty, emotion, and unforgettable touches that had their guests talking long after the last dance!⁠
⁠
Take a closer look at their full celebration via the link in bio.⁠
⁠
Photographer: @wilde.visual / Venue: @botanica_plantationhouse / Styling: @jj_style_co / Cinematographer: @aleishaedwardsweddings / Ceremony Officiant: @featheredweddings / Wedding Cake: @emilyybakes_ / Invitations & Stationery: @maddisonjayne_design / Hairstylist: @amyspryhair / Makeup Artist: @xenia.elise / Musicians: @mitchelldormermusic / Marquee: @gold.coast.events / Draping: @outofthedarkeventlighting / Bride's Dress: @bessette_official / Bride's Shoes: @jimmychoo / Flowers: @jj_style_co / Groom & Groomsmen Attire: @institchu / Bridesmaid Dresses: @elliatt / Transport: @currumbinvalleycoaches⁠
⁠
[Image one description: Mark has his hand on Jordon's cheek to tilt her head up so the photo captures the newlyweds in a near kiss. Jordon is wearing an off-shoulder white gown with a pearl-encrusted veil flowing behind her. Mark is wearing a classic tuxedo with a cream jacket, black bow tie, and pocket square.⁠
⁠
Image two description: A shot of their wedding cake, a beautiful and simple white cake with white bows lining the top layer and raspberries covering the top.⁠
⁠
Image three description: The bridesmaids at the ceremony are dressed in black with white floral bouquets. The white draping of the marquee can be seen in the background along with a glimpse of the celebrant.]⁠
⁠
#PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #AustralianWeddings #BotanicalWedding #ModernWeddingStyle #RefinedRomance⁠
#AustralianWedding #WeddingStory #WeddingStories #WeddingMemories #WeddingInspiration #WeddingInspo #RealWedding
Not everyone has their parents at their wedding. N Not everyone has their parents at their wedding. Not everyone has their support. And when you do, it’s an absolute privilege.

Some of our most-loved wedding moments come from that kind of love. The first look with your partner is always beautiful, but the first look with your parents? That’s the one that hits you right in the heart. The hugs. The tears. The way they look at you like they’ve been waiting your whole life for this moment (because they have). These aren’t just moments from one day. They carry years of stories - and the full rollercoaster that is parenting.

Here are just a few parent moments from real Polka Dot Wedding features that stayed with us.

Want to see more from any of these weddings? Pop the couple’s name in the comments and we’ll send you the link.

[Reel description “Parent moments that got us” is overlaid ona. short video of guests toasting Champagne. before a slideshow of parent moments at weddings, photos. The music The Winner Is
 by DeVotchKa and Mychael Danna plays.]

Video by Kampus Production

1. Kat & Ben. Photo by @danibartlettphotography

2. Krista & Andrew. Photo by @nicoleorlowskiphotography

3. Michelle & Rob. Photo by @westcreative

4.  Remington & Matthew. Photo by @hellosweetheartau

5.  Riley & Shaun. Photo by @lovebylina_

6. Libby & Charlie. Photo by @lulu_and_lime

7.  Katie & Jesse. Photo by @wildflowerweddings

8.  Eman & Conan. Photo by @jmtweddings

9.  Mia & Nick. Photo by @tropical.romance

10.  Steph & Hector. Photo by @ashleighhaasephotography

11.  Rebecca & Derek. Photo by @marketlanemedia

12.  Dani & Lenny. Photo by @jessicaabbyphotography

13.  Marybel & Paul. Photo by @lovebyshae

14.  Dani & Lenny. Photo by @jessicaabbyphotography

15.  Zeinab & Gassan. Photo by @saltatelier_wedding

16. Dee-Jay & Luke. Photo by @abouttimeco

17.  Suraya & Yahdullah. Photo by @olemonade.co

18.  Dani & Lenny. Photo by @jessicaabbyphotography

19.  Rebecca & Derek. Photo by @marketlanemedia

20.  Lulu & Shaun. Photo by @weddingsbybhs

#PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings
Dreaming about Phuket? We’ve found the place. Pe Dreaming about Phuket? We’ve found the place. Perched high above Phang Nga Bay, @comopointyamu.phuket is where luxury meets laidback island romance, and it’s fast becoming a favourite for destination weddings in Thailand.⁠
⁠
Our resident honeymoon expert, Lisa Perkovic, sat down with the resort’s Managing Director, Andy Kunz, to uncover exactly why this serene spot is so special, from five-star pampering to cliffside “I do’s” and everything in between.⁠
⁠
Thinking about tying the knot in Thailand or planning a post-wedding escape? This one’s for you.⁠
⁠
Read the full story now on Polka Dot Honeymoons. ⁠
⁠
[Image description: A breathtaking outdoor wedding ceremony setup at COMO Point Yamu’s lush lawn, overlooking the serene waters of Phang Nga Bay in Phuket. Golden chiavari chairs are neatly arranged on either side of a white petal-strewn aisle, leading to a striking circular floral arch adorned with neutral-toned pampas grass and fresh blooms. Surrounded by tropical greenery and panoramic ocean views, this setting is the epitome of luxury destination romance.]⁠
⁠
#PolkaDotWedding #PolkaDotHoneymoons #FeelGoodWeddings #Honeymoon #HoneymoonIdeas #Honeymoons #Honeymooning #HoneymoonVibes #HoneymoonDiaries #LuxuryTravel #LuxuryHoneymoon #Travel #Travelling #TravelIdeas #Thailand #Phuket #PhuketWedding #ThailandWedding #DestinationWeddings #DestinationWedding
With over 300 meters of incredible river-frontage, With over 300 meters of incredible river-frontage, @tindarraresort is THE venue for any wedding along The Murray River. The tranquil atmosphere and picturesque views create the perfect ceremony spot surrounded by nature. ⁠
⁠
Only a 2.5-hour drive from Melbourne, you and your guests can get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the river while celebrating your wedding. ⁠
⁠
Not only do you get to enjoy this little slice of nature, but you can also indulge in one of their modern villas. Complete with full pool access, romantic cave spas, and a tennis court. ⁠
⁠
When you book your wedding at Tindarra Resort, like Rebecca & Trent (pictured above), you’ll gain access to your very own wedding coordinator! They’ll take care of all the details, including decor, setup, catering, entertainment, and more! ⁠
⁠
Kick back under the redgums and enjoy your night under the stars now – head over to the link in our bio to find out how you can get started.⁠
⁠
psst!! If you’re a wedding vendor also looking to get your venue in front of potential couples, check out our bio to find out all the benefits of Polka Dot Membership!⁠
⁠
Photographer: @lovebyshae⁠
⁠
[Image one description: A pair of newlyweds stand at their wooden arbour, smiling at each other. The bride on the left is wearing a white dress with a scooping neckline and holding a bouquet full of white florals and eucalyptus leaves. The groom is wearing a neutral suit with a white shirt and a white rose buttonhole. Florals to match the arbour, the bouquet hangs from the wooden arbour, cascading down the left-hand side. Water can be seen out of focus in the background, suggesting a waterside ceremony spot.]⁠
⁠
#PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #AustralianWeddings #AustralianWedding #WeddingVendors #WeddingDirectory #WeddingVenue #WeddingWebsite #WeddingInspo #WeddingInspiration #WeddingBlogger
“My mum told me on my wedding day, when times ar “My mum told me on my wedding day, when times are tough, remember the love you felt for each other on your wedding day. And it has stuck with me.” – @ashleywilksch⁠
⁠
Golden gowns. Big bows. Bowties on dogs.⁠
⁠
A wedding party ready to party – and a Krispy Kreme wall that didn't last long... Ashley and James know how to throw a celebration that's fun, stylish, and very well-dressed. ⁠
⁠
Hit the link in bio to see more.⁠
⁠
⁠Photographer: @azure_creative_photography / Band: @paperboynewcastle / Bride's Dress: @moirahughescouture / Bridesmaid Dresses: @shonajoy / Bride's Reception Dress: @astonbridal / Catering: @sproutevents_ / Creative Direction & Styling: @theeventartists / Hair & Makeup Artist: @glossgirlbridalstory / Makeup Artist: @bronzedbyimogen / Transport: @foreshorekombihire / Venue: @tocalhomesteadweddings / Ceremony Officiant: @nelldarkjones_celebrant / Wedding Planner: @huntereventsnsw⁠
⁠
[Image one description: ⁠Sitting together on a grown velvet lounge under a neon sign that reads "it was always you", is the couple. The bride is wearing a white strapless gown with a full skirt and big bow detail that is draped across the couch. She has her leg crossed, with the groom's hand resting on her knee. The groom is wearing a cream suit jacket and black pants, holding a beer in his other hand.⁠
⁠
Image two description: ⁠A wall of doughnuts sits with a sign above them reading "donut mind if I do". The wall itself is pink.⁠
⁠
Image three description: A shot of the bride hugging her bridesmaid, with her bow detail on full display. Her other bridesmaid is standing to the left, laughing with joy in a gold dress.]⁠
⁠
⁠
#PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWeddings #AustralianWeddings #AustralianWedding #WeddingStory #WeddingStories #WeddingMemories #WeddingInspiration #WeddingInspo #RealWedding #CountryWedding #ClassicCountryWedding
Wedding cake costs can be confusing. Some couples Wedding cake costs can be confusing. Some couples dream of a show-stopping centrepiece, others just want something simple to cut - but most aren't quite sure what a wedding cake really costs, or why.⁠
⁠
So, we asked the experts!⁠
⁠
In this chapter of our Australian Wedding Budget series, six brilliant cake designers across Australia break down the numbers. From portion sizes and design finishes to delivery costs and dietary tweaks, they’ve helped us answer the big question: what does a wedding cake actually cost in 2025?⁠
⁠
We’ve also gathered their best tips for saving money without missing out on that sweet moment, whether you’re going full-tiered masterpiece or keeping things low-key and lovely.⁠
⁠
A big thanks to Gina of @missladybirdcakes, Alice of @misstrixiedrinkstea, Faye of @fayecahillcakedesign, Rebecca of @petalandpeach.bakery, Jo of @thecakeandi and Claire of @hellosukar for their expert wisdom!⁠
⁠
[Image description: a blush background with text that reads: "What does a wedding cake cost in Australia?" with the Polka Dot Wedding logo at the bottom centre.]⁠
⁠
#PolkaDotWedding #FeelGoodWedding #WeddingCakeAustralia⁠
#AustralianWeddings #WeddingBudgetTips #CakeDesignAustralia⁠
#WeddingCakeInspo #CakesOfInstagram⁠

Take a little peek around
the feel good weddings website

Discover

  • Featured
  • Wisdom
  • Made
  • You
  • Honeymoons
  • Podcast
  • Shop

Directories

  • Wedding Directory
  • Honeymoon Directory

Search By

  • Categories
  • Inspired Weddings
  • Images
  • Colour
  • Location
  • Style
  • Setting
  • Season
  • Monthly Issues

Meet & Greet

  • About
  • Diversity and Inclusion Statement
  • Contact Us
  • Log In

Show & Share

  • Make a submission
  • Submit your wedding or honeymoon
  • Advertise with us
  • Badges

Newsletter Sign Up

Join Polka Dot Circle
for Polka Dot Fun delivered direct to your inbox.
  • DD slash MM slash YYYY
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

© Copyright Polka Dot Wedding 2025
Sign up to our newsletter, Polka Dot Circle
for Polka Dot Fun delivered direct to your inbox.
Join today
...AND GET A
FREE WEDDING
INSPIRATION GUIDE
Name(Required)
DD slash MM slash YYYY
DD slash MM slash YYYY

Send a Message
To:
Name(Required)
DD slash MM slash YYYY
Hidden
Want to sign up to the Polka Dot Circle newsletter?
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

LOG IN

Log In


Lost Password?

JOIN THE FEEL GOOD WEDDING BLOG

We've created a central space for couples, vendors and partners.
Register now
Search
Open toolbar Accessibility Tools

Accessibility Tools

  • Increase TextIncrease Text
  • Decrease TextDecrease Text
  • GrayscaleGrayscale
  • High ContrastHigh Contrast
  • Negative ContrastNegative Contrast
  • Light BackgroundLight Background
  • Links UnderlineLinks Underline
  • Readable FontReadable Font
  • Reset Reset