Weddings

The Non-Traditionalist or Minimalist Approach to Weddings

5 min read

Weddings are a big deal. For some, the traditional wedding is a dream come true. For others, it's an expensive hassle that leads to headaches and heartaches. They can easily become burdensome and overwhelming, but they don’t have to be that way. There is an alternative approach you as the bride might not know about: The Non-traditionalist or minimalist approach. This will allow you to still enjoy your day without spending all of your time stressing over small details and worrying about what everyone else wants out of it for themselves!

The best approach to representing yourself to your vendors

The first thing is to be honest and direct with your vendor team. They will appreciate a straightforward personality that they can work with, rather than someone who insists on having their own way every step of the way. It’s also important to have full transparency between you and your vendors so there are no surprises after the contract is signed or money has been paid.

Maintain your own style but be open to new ideas

You can still have your dream wedding, just with a little bit of outside-the-box thinking. This is not about having no theme at all or being completely free-form in how you approach it. You should still maintain what makes you who you are and represent that through every part of the planning process. Still, trust your vendors as they are looking to collaborate with you in order to make a wonderful experience.

Show appreciation to your loved ones in your own way

When planning, we will include the traditions that mean something to you. As I plan your reception and ask about each traditional element, there are a few pros of having these in my opinion: it shows how much thought was put into this day by not forgetting any important moments; they help keep things running smoothly during dinner so people don't get too hungry or full before their food arrives (plus who doesn’t love swooping out at just exactly wrong time?) However, if some elements aren't available—such as no father-daughter dance for instance--then let's think hard together on alternative ways of showing your love to others through song!

Take calculated risks

Music is a great way to get everyone on their feet and have fun. You can incorporate themes for different groups of guests, add sing-alongs from college that will make everyone feel like they're back at school again (or in this case University), weave in songs only you and your spouse love during dinner with all the dancing freely permitted without fear of judgment or interruption by others.

Remove the moments that don't matter

Who says you HAVE to do a wedding party intro? Uh…no one! You can keep the bouquet toss while skipping the garter removal and tossing. I can play dance music during dinner time. No matter what, feel confident that all night long "The Wedding Police" will not be there.

Finally... do stuff that is fun for you

Since this is your wedding, do the things that make it uniquely yours. Listen to all of those people who love and care for you- but don't let them get in the way! This party will never happen again; take advantage by being yourself (and having some fun)!

“Remember that the best relationship is one in which your love for each other exceeds your need for each other.” - Dalai Lama

Bill Gilliam

Professional dj

With over 1,200 weddings and private events to his name, Bill has become the go to recommendation for Richmond's leading venues, planners, photographers, and other vendors.