Choosing the right date is one of the biggest decisions couples make—and it’s not just about the season or the venue. More couples are considering weekday weddings these days, and each option (weekday vs. weekend) has its own perks and challenges. Here’s what I’ve seen from the officiant’s side of things: Weekend Weddings Pros: Cons:…
Author: Ralph Griggs
Wedding minister officiant serving the Nashville and middle Tennessee area for 20 plus years. Non-denominational and personalized ceremonies. At-Home marriage prep course author.
Worried you’ll ugly-cry through your vows?
It’s completely normal to feel nervous about saying your vows in front of family and friends. For most couples, this is the most personal part of the entire wedding—and suddenly all eyes are on you. As an officiant, I’ve seen plenty of shaky hands, nervous laughter, and even a few “deer in headlights” moments. The…
Music City Nuptials: Your Guide to a Nashville Micro Wedding
Thinking about having a micro wedding in Nashville, TN? You’re in luck. Music City isn’t just for honky-tonks, hot chicken, and bachelorette parties—it’s also one of the best places to say “I do” with just your closest people by your side. With its mix of Southern hospitality, gorgeous scenery, and that “big city with a…
How to Have a No-Yawn Ceremony
Your wedding ceremony sets the tone for the entire day. It’s the part everyone will remember—and the one you’ll remember most. The best ceremonies aren’t cookie-cutter; they’re tailored to reflect who you are as a couple. Most couples go for simple and straightforward ceremonies. But this guide will walk you through simple ways to personalize…
My Tips for the Unplugged Ceremony
Just as the ceremony is ready to begin with the first family member coming down the aisle, the officiant walks to the front and says something like this: “Good afternoon, everyone. We have a couple ready to get married!. As a reminder, the couple kindly asks that you silence your phones and put them away…
Your Most Important Wedding Hire (Besides Your Bartender)
Congrats, lovebirds! You’re engaged! 🥂 Right now you’re probably dreaming about venues, drooling over cake samples, and wondering if you really need twelve types of flowers (spoiler: no). But let’s talk about the one person who can make or break your big day: the person standing front and center, guiding you through those two little…
Top 5 Guest Complaints (and how to avoid them)
The truth: Wedding guests remember the ceremony… but not always for the right reasons. Here’s what they secretly complain about — and how to keep yours complaint-free. 💡 When I officiate, one of my goals to help keep your guests smiling.
Simple Guide to Writing Your Own Wedding Vows
This guide is designed to help you write heartfelt and personal wedding vows without the stress of starting from a blank page. The process is broken down into three simple parts: looking back, looking forward, and making promises. Part 1: Looking Back – Our Story These prompts are designed to help you reflect on your…
Your Timeless Nashville Wedding: A Guide to Historic Venues
Choosing a historic wedding venue in Nashville is a great idea—it adds a sense of timeless romance to your special day. When you’re looking for a place that feels like it has a story to tell, you’ll find plenty of amazing options right here in Music City. As a wedding officiant, I’ve had the pleasure…
🐴 Best Farm Wedding Venues Near Nashville (Rustic + Scenic)
if you’re dreaming of a wedding with wide open skies, rolling fields, and a little Southern charm, you’re in the right place. The Nashville area is full of scenic farm venues that offer the perfect mix of relaxed and romantic—whether you’re going for cowboy boots and BBQ or a more elegant barn celebration with twinkle…