What I Have Learned Officiating Weddings in Orlando

Real advice from someone who has stood at the front of a lot of weddings

Every couple deserves a ceremony that actually sounds like them. Not a template. Not borrowed words from a list someone found online. A real, specific, beautifully human ceremony built around their story.

That is what I spend my time thinking about. And this is where I share what I have learned.

You will find practical guidance on Florida marriage licenses, ideas for personalizing your ceremony, thoughts on vows and readings, and the kind of behind the scenes advice that only comes from standing at the front of a lot of weddings and paying close attention.

If something here is useful, I am glad. If you want to talk about your own ceremony, I would love that even more.

Victoria 1883
New Smyrna Beach, Florida

What I Wish Every Couple Knew

Guy Swenson Guy Swenson

The Child-Free Wedding: How to Draw the Line Without Burning Bridges

Thinking about an adults-only celebration but worried about the family fallout? I get it. As an officiant, I’ve seen firsthand how a child-free environment can elevate the sacredness of a ceremony—but I’ve also seen the rifts it can create in a guest list. Before you send those invitations, let’s talk about the truth of the pushback, the wedding sitter solution that saves your sanity, and why being steadfast in your decision is the only way to protect your vision. Whether you're worried about hurt feelings or just want to ensure your vows aren't drowned out by a toddler’s tantrum, here is the honest advice you need to navigate the no-kids debate like a pro.

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Guy Swenson Guy Swenson

Office Invites are Where Wedding Budgets Go to Die

It’s the ultimate cubicle conundrum: Do you really have to invite your boss and the entire marketing department to your wedding? Before you blow your budget on people you only know in the context of Zoom calls and fluorescent lighting, read my guide on how to filter your work invites with precision and zero guilt.

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Guy Swenson Guy Swenson

The Guest List: Who Actually Belongs at Your Ceremony?

Ready to start your guest list but feeling the weight of expectation? In Part 1 of my Guest List Series, I introduce my Concentric Circles method for filtering the noise. From the Phone Contact Audit to the Living Room Test, it’s time to trade obligation for intentionality.

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Guy Swenson Guy Swenson

5 Reasons Why Investing in a Professional Officiant Changes Everything

Your ceremony is the heartbeat of your wedding day, but not all officiants are the same. Discover the five key reasons why investing in a professional Orlando wedding officiant ensures a stress-free experience, from navigating Florida marriage license requirements to crafting a personalized script that captures your unique story. Learn how the right expert can transform your ceremony from a standard ritual into an unforgettable highlight.

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