Can a Private Ceremony Be Romantic?

John McGinley and Nichole Kessler’s Wedding Answers That Question

Not all celebrity engagements end up at the altar, that’s just a sad fact in Hollywood. Couples come and couples go. However, some couples not only end up saying “I do” but their ceremonies also illustrate some amazing ideas the rest of us can modify for our own special romantic wedding celebrations. John McGinley, who plays Dr. Cox on Scrubs, and his new wife Nichole Kessler, who is yoga instructor, are one such couple.

The couple already had a romantic engagement, but their small wedding ceremony at their own Malibu home surrounded by a few dozen of their closest loved ones also seemed like a fairytale.

Let’s look at just a few of the highlights. For one, John’s 9 year old son, Max, walked down the aisle with his new stepmother while John was accompanied to the altar by his two chocolate Labrador retrievers – a precious way to get the entire family involved.

Another interesting part of the ceremony was the officiant. Even before the service began, she told the couple they could be affectionate with one another, so John and Nichole exchanged a romantic kiss in front of everyone even before they were proclaimed “husband and wife.” Speaking of the ceremony, the couple also chose to write their own vows. John’s vows actually made all of the guests begin crying because they were so touching and sincere.

Afterward, the small band of guests enjoyed a reception of sushi and dancing then the group continued the party inside the couple’s garage until past 3 am.

This particular wedding demonstrates at least one of the newer trends becoming common in celebrity weddings today: staying at home. More and more couples are opting to exchange their vows in the privacy and comfort of their own homes (most are bigger than your average church anyway, right?). The good thing about this idea is it tends to reduce the bride and groom’s anxiety because they’re in a familiar setting, plus the ceremony is more cozy and intimate than it would be in a gigantic church or hall. Plus, you have more freedom to decorate, to choose wedding music, and to determine how long your reception will last. Plus, you probably won’t have to mail maps to your guests so they can find the location.

Another element of this ceremony that is really nice is the inclusion of John’s son and his dogs. Many couples do come into the relationship with a pre-existing family of kids or pets so finding ways to add their presence to the ceremony or reception is a nice idea. For example, the children could pass out wedding programs or help people find their seats at the reception while the pets can walk down the aisle as the ring bearers or flower girls (if they are well-trained, of course).

Besides the fun of the reception – which is, of course, what the reception should be all about – the other nice details that other couples should consider is the writing of their own vows. While there’s nothing wrong with reciting the traditional vows, there is something special about taking that moment to honestly communicate your feelings for one another in front of everyone you care about. Just remember to be sincere and to practice before the big day.