Growing up in New Orleans, I was immersed in wedding traditions as vibrant and storied as the city itself. From jubilant second lines winding through the French Quarter to receptions in historic ballrooms and church ceremonies brimming with Southern charm, these celebrations were nothing short of grand. Yet, when it came time to envision my own wedding, I found myself looking for something different—something intimate, intentional and reflective of the life my fiancé, Austin, and I have built.

For me, this isn’t about discarding tradition for the sake of rebellion; it’s about reshaping those rituals to reflect who we truly are as a couple. Take, for example, the age-old notion of not seeing your partner until the ceremony. While it’s a charming relic, it feels out of step with the modern desire for intimacy and connection. I’m much more drawn to the idea of sharing a quiet, private moment on the morning of the wedding—maybe exchanging vows over a cup of coffee or simply lying together in bed. There’s something profoundly tender about sharing your heart away from the eyes and ears of others—a kind of sanctuary in stillness if you will.

This approach has shaped every aspect of how we’re planning our wedding. For us, it meant forgoing a traditional church ceremony in favor of an intimate celebration overlooking the stunning landscape of Lake Como, Italy. This choice reflects our shared love of travel and our desire to immerse ourselves in a setting that feels deeply personal, surrounded by our closest family and friends. It’s not just about the ceremony; it’s about creating an experience that allows us to savor the connection, love and joy of the moment, crafting memories that will stay with us forever.

I’ve noticed that couples everywhere are finding creative ways to reimagine tradition. Some are trading large guest lists for smaller, destination weddings that double as shared vacations with loved ones. Others are choosing ceremonies that break the mold—incorporating personalized vows, blending cultural elements or even walking down the aisle together.

In the end, I’ve realized that our wedding isn’t about following a script. It’s about creating a story that feels true to who we are. It’s a celebration of love, not bound by convention but enriched by the choices that reflect our values, passions and the journey we’re embarking on together. By breaking tradition with intention, we’re creating a day that resonates deeply—not just in the moment but in the memories we’ll carry with us for a lifetime.