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There are very few once in a lifetime events quite like your wedding
day. From the flowers and dress to the flavor of the cake, the option
to plan and personalize your wedding with your own unique wedding ideas
is truly in your court. And we've all been to dozens of weddings that
follow the standard format - the rehearsal and subsequent dinner, the
wedding ceremony where the bridesmaids, groomsmen, and couple walked
formally down the aisle, and, finally, the reception, where dancing and
dinner is bound to follow.
And yes, points are given to the couples that take the time to
personalize their wedding with fun favors, unusual refreshments,
decorations, and other unique wedding ideas. But have you ever thought
about shaking up your own wedding, perhaps even changing the very
structure of it? With a little ingenuity (and planning), you can
personalize your wedding in a way that's fun for everyone!
My Favorite Memorable Ideas for Unique Weddings
Consider the rehearsal dinner. Whereas most couples elect to run
through the standard 'meet and greet,' practice their walk down the
aisle to get rid of those pre-ceremony jitters, and then sit down to a
light repast, some brides and grooms choose to infuse this gathering
with their very own unique wedding ideas. One example I've heard of is
eliminating the sit down dinner entirely, which is usually more formal
in nature anyway. The brides then invite the rehearsal dinner guests
over for a picnic (in warmer months) or a potluck supper (great any
time). This option not only takes away a lot of wedding stress, but
also encourages the guests to interact more.
The wedding ceremony itself is, of course, meant to be solemn
and respectful, but that doesn't mean before or after the priest or
minister marries the couple you can't infuse the ceremony with your own
unique wedding ideas. One of the more unusual examples I've heard about
is the entire wedding party dancing up and down the aisle to the
delight of the guests who get in on the act. Without so much as a hint
as to what is going on, an upbeat tempo begins playing and guests start
clapping. The bridesmaids and groomsmen get footloose up and down the
aisle, making way for the groom's and bride's grand entrances. After
all, a lively entrance is certainly one way to personalize your wedding
and make sure guests never forget your nuptials!
Another way to personalize your wedding is seating guests at
round tables at the wedding venue itself (serving as both the ceremony
and reception area). Though it appears to be the reception, the guests
actually watch as the bride and groom are married while seated at
tables, and then after a quick swap out, the area becomes a beautiful
reception. The perks? The bride and groom save lots of money because
there's no need to secure two venues, and your guests don't have to
travel.
And, of course, if you choose to have a wedding theme, you can
incorporate all sorts of unique wedding ideas. Take the idea of a
renaissance-themed wedding. Both the bride and groom, for instance,
will be wearing flowing fabrics and unique headpieces, while the
entertainment could feasibly be even more entertaining. Couples have
hired 'court jesters,' 'jugglers,' and 'dancers' to lighten the mood,
carry on the renaissance theme, and personalize their wedding in a
unique way. However, whatever your wedding theme may be, just remember
to explore all the unique wedding ideas and possibilities available to
you. If it's historical in nature, do your research! If it's
hobby-themed, ask your friends to share their ideas. Not only will
collaboration on unique wedding ideas help you to envision a better
wedding, you'll also have the support of your friends.
At your reception, just about anything goes. It's your day, so
plan and personalize your wedding reception how you want. Some brides
feel as though they have to please their guests. Bottom line - if you
plan and personalize your wedding activities and events, your guests
will want to stay all night long. Consider, for example, the buffet or
sit down style dinner served at most weddings. A few brides have
elected to have wait staff circulate with heavy hors d'oeuvres and
beverages or have had multiple refreshment tables set up around the
room. Usually, one of the most popular attractions at these refreshment
tables is the giant chocolate fountain, with fruit and pretzels for
dipping.
Another one of the more unique wedding ideas I've heard about is a
groom's cake made entirely of meat. Ideally, the groom's cake is meant
for him and his right-hand men, so, in many ways, it's appropriate. And
you might just have a lot of extra 'cake' left over to enjoy later!
Memories that Last a Lifetime
These examples of unique wedding ideas are just a few of the
more memorable highlights I've seen at weddings over the years.
Regardless of how you choose to personalize your wedding, it will
always be a special day - a celebration of love and romance with your
closest friends and family members. And if you ultimately decide to
play it on the traditional side, don't worry - you have those beautiful
memories to last a lifetime.
About the Author
Cherie Johnson is the founder and owner of Creative Bride, a one-stop shop for a large selection of party and wedding favors.
Cherie's articles have been published on numerous websites including
Blissfully Domestic, Dress Up Your Wedding, and Wedding Museum. Since
starting Creative Bride in 2006, Cherie has helped countless couples,
families, and friends make their gatherings a success. Prior to
Creative Bride, she worked as a professional wedding photographer,
capturing the most memorable moments of the couple's big day. To find
favors and gifts for your upcoming event, please visit www.Creative-Bride.com.
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