WHY WE LOVE SYMBOLIC CEREMONIES
WHY WE LOVE SYMBOLIC CEREMONIES
(AND WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER ONE)
There’s something incredibly powerful about symbolic ceremonies. They’re more than just a timeline in your wedding day—they’re the soul of it.
These ceremonies are filled with emotion, laughter, and meaning. They give you the freedom to choose what matters most to you. With the help of the person who will officiate—whether it’s a professional celebrant or someone very close to you who knows your love story—you can create something truly personal.
Together, you’ll craft a ceremony that feels like you. One where your guests don’t just sit and watch… they feel, connect, and remember.
Whether it’s sharing your vows, lighting a candle, reading letters, inviting loved ones to participate, or simply standing in silence holding hands—you get to decide what gives your ceremony soul.
- HERE´S WHY SYMBOLIC CEREMONIES ARE SO SPECIAL -
– They’re deeply personal. Every word, every ritual is chosen by you.
– They invite connection. Your guests won’t just witness your love, they’ll feel part of it.
– They offer total freedom. There are no rules—just what feels true to your relationship.
– They’re unforgettable. Because when something is real, it stays with you.
As a photographer, I’ve had the honor of witnessing many symbolic ceremonies—and I can tell you, the energy is different. The tears are real. The joy is contagious.
A FEW THINGS I ALWAYS RECOMMEND AS A PHOTOGRAPHER
(BECAUSE THEY MAKE A HUGE DIFFERENCE)
Ask your guests to be present—really present.
One of the most heartbreaking things I see as a photographer is a ceremony full of love, meaningful vows, and beautiful live music… and yet, the only faces I can photograph are the couple’s. The guests? Behind their phones, recording every second instead of feeling it.
Please, remind your guests that the best gift they can give you is their presence.
You can ask your wedding planner to place a small sign at the entrance that says something like:
“We want you here, with us. Photos and video are in good hands—what matters most is that you’re present.”
It makes a world of difference. Because when people aren’t worried about the zoom, the lighting, or when the kiss will happen, they can actually cry, laugh, and be there with you.
Be thoughtful about the ceremony time.
Yes, it’s your day—you get to choose the time! But please make sure to check with your wedding planner about things like when the sun sets or when the sunlight is at its harshest.
I’ve seen ceremonies scheduled during the most intense sun, and that can mean:
– guests have to wear sunglasses, which hides all those priceless tears and expressions
– the couple is sweating, squinting, and counting down the minutes
– emotional moments are missed in photos and video because people can’t look up
If your only available time has strong light, that’s okay! Just ask your planner to consider light solutions like stylish umbrellas or a beautiful canopy to make things more comfortable.
Involve your people.
Think of inviting a few guests to say something, share an anecdote, or read a short piece.
It brings intimacy, connection, and unexpected joy. Trust me, they’ll be honored—and it adds so much soul to the moment.
Let the feelings flow
Let yourselves be fully present. Smile. Look into each other’s eyes. Cry if you need to. Speak from the heart. Let the feelings come out.
That’s what makes a ceremony unforgettable.
NEED SOMEONE TO OFFICIATE?
If you’d prefer to have a symbolic officiant rather than a friend or relative, I’d love to share a few amazing professionals I’ve worked with—bilingual (English & Spanish), warm, intentional, and deeply experienced in creating meaningful symbolic ceremonies:
And a big shoutout to all my beautiful couples who let me be part of their special day
With love,
Ilde