My favorite part of our wedding was seeing every emotions in my husband’s eyes—from the moment I stepped onto the aisle to the moment I surprised him with the song he’d asked me to sing, the one I swore I NEVER would. Oh, the things we do for love.

We had a photo booth at our wedding with a canvas beside it that doubled as our guest book. Each guest got two photo strips—one to take home, and one to stick on the canvas with a silly or sweet note. That canvas now hangs in the heart of our home, a joyful collage of laughter and love. Every time we walk past it, we’re reminded of the all our family and friends who we love that came just for us, all in one place, like it was just yesterday.

Our biggest splurge was split between the culinary stations and the flowers—both completely worth it. With so many food allergies, specialty dishes were a must, and the stations were perfect for keeping everything separate yet delicious. And then there were the flowers… I’d always dreamed of having fresh lavender, and it was truly magical. The scent filled the entire venue and created the most calming, romantic atmosphere. Even now, every time I catch a whiff of lavender, I’m instantly transported back to that beautiful day. I should have just done wine and beer, but you live and learn.

If I could go back in time, I’d whisper to myself—maybe even shout like Jiminy Cricket—that hiring a professional videographer was so worth it. I thought handing my cousin a not-so-great camera would be enough, but the footage turned out grainy and shaky, and I was honestly heartbroken. We still try to watch it every year, holding on to those moments the best we can, but I do wish I had that timeless, beautifully captured video to relive it all the way it truly felt.

For me, it will always come back to the magic of “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” There’s just something so timeless and sentimental about it. And of course—you have to play “Shout” by The Isley Brothers. I mean, is it even a wedding if that song doesn’t bring everyone to the dance floor in a frenzy of joy and nostalgia? I don’t think so!

The small, intimate moments are always my favorite—the private vow exchanges, the quiet first or last dance. Those are the times where you can truly bask in each other, soak it all in, and remember what the day is really about. Weddings are filled with so much love from family and friends, and while it’s beautiful to be surrounded by all that support, the heart of it all is the two of you. Taking time to be present with your new spouse, to show love and gratitude for each other, is what makes the day feel so meaningful and unforgettable.

Where do I even begin? Everything about weddings is just perfect—but nothing compares to that magical moment when the bride walks down the aisle. It’s not just the look on the groom’s face (though that always gives me chills), it’s the emotion radiating from every guest. You can feel the pride, the happiness, the overwhelming love from everyone in the audience. It’s a collective moment of celebration that just melts your heart—ok ok stop!! I’m getting the sniffles.

No one: “Are you CRYING right now? Do you even know those people?”
Me: “Im not crying, YOU’RE crying!!….I can’t help it it’s just so beautiful!”