Welcome to the Steem blockchain. I hope you manage to find your place here.
I personally think traditional weddings are quite crazy. You shouldn't spend money that can be better used elsewhere on what's essentially just a big party with a really bad dress code. For the price many spend on weddings, you could have a lot better party than they do. :P It's not like most weddings are even enjoyable.
I don't know if your way is "the" way, but it sounds a lot better than a traditional wedding and it gives people the ceremony and photos that many people want. Many people need that for whatever reason. Maybe as a sign of your devotion...or just because your in-laws are really annoying. :P