How to make your wedding stand out
Attention all brides and grooms! Are you tired of attending weddings that all seem to blend together? Do you want your special day to stand out and be remembered for years to come?
Well, fear not, because we’ve got some tips and tricks to make your wedding unforgettable. So put on your wedding planning hat and let’s get started!
“How was the wedding?”
“She looked stunning in her dress. Everything else was okay, I guess.”
“And the food?”
“Just like every other wedding…”
If you’ve been to one wedding, you’ve been to them all. How is the modern bride to make her wedding celebration something to talk about?
Here are a few tips on making your wedding stand out.
When it comes to weddings, we’ve all been to those that seem to follow the same formula: ceremony, reception, dinner, dancing, cake cutting, and farewell. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with that structure, it can be fun to mix things up and put your own spin on the day.
Memorable venue
First and foremost, consider the venue. Think outside the box and choose a location that is unique and memorable. It could be a beach, a barn, a vineyard, a museum, or even your own backyard. The possibilities are endless!
Eat foods you actually like
Everyone uses the same caterers with the same food options. Break the mold by opting for something that fits your personality, like a pig roast or a sushi-theme.
“We’ve done barn weddings, pig roast dinners and had private rehearsal dinners. Weddings have become a great part of our summer season,” says Joseph Farrell, owner of Walrus + Carpenter, an upscale smokehouse and gastropub in Connecticut.
“People are looking for something quality and memorable on these special occasions; something more flavorful than the typical trays of food offered by traditional catering halls.”
Take the focus off gifts
No one really wants to sit around and watch the future bride open presents. Choose to focus your Bridal Shower on cocktails and fun, instead of the gifts.
Tell guests that you would be happy to open the gifts on a one-on-one basis, but would rather have a great time with them than stop the party for the presents.
“Couples are starting to do wedding showers together, and guys aren’t as patient with the older traditions of gift opening,” says Mr. Farrell, who recommends adding liquor, wine, or beer tastings to showers to make them something to talk about.
Write your own vows
Next, let’s talk about the ceremony itself. Instead of sticking to traditional vows, consider writing your own. This is a chance to truly personalize the ceremony and make it reflect your love story. You can also include readings or poems that hold special meaning to you and your partner.
Unique reception
Now onto the reception. Instead of a sit-down dinner, why not have a food truck or a buffet-style meal? This will keep things casual and encourage guests to mingle and try different foods. You can also set up interactive food stations like a DIY taco bar or a make-your-own-s’mores station.
Entertainment
When it comes to entertainment, consider hiring a live band or a DJ who can get the crowd moving and grooving. You could also set up lawn games like cornhole or giant Jenga to keep guests entertained during cocktail hour or in between dance sets.
Choose a place with personality
When it comes to flowers, linens, table settings and décor, choose a location with personality and limit the decorations.
A bare hotel ballroom may need tall flowers, hanging fabrics and bows on chairs, but a restaurant, outdoor park, or family homestead only needs smaller personal touches.
“Weddings with bonfires and wooden chairs have such a stronger personality than the ones in banquet halls. It’s just a shift of focus, from the traditional to bring out the personalities of the bride and groom,” notes Joe Farrell, whose catering menu includes pig roasts, steak, kale salad and pies for desert.
Little details
Lastly, don’t forget about the little details that can make a big impact. Consider unique wedding favors like personalized shot glasses or mini succulents. You could also have a signature cocktail or a dessert bar that showcases your favorite treats.
Regardless of your theme or style, it’s totally possible to make your wedding 100% unique to you. Remember: simplicity is key and Pinterest is your friend.
At the end of the day, your wedding should be a reflection of you and your partner’s personalities and style. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and make it a day that you and your guests will never forget.