WEDDING DAY ADVICE: HOW TO MAKE YOUR WEDDING PERSONAL AND FUN INSTEAD OF TRADITIONAL
As you plan your wedding, you’ve probably noticed how many traditions you’re expected to follow on your special day. You may have been told to wear “something blue”, to “not show your groom your dress before the day”, and to “wear a veil”.
If you love traditions, they’re wonderful to include in your big day. But the reality is, your wedding day should be a reflection of you and your partner.
As a wedding planner, the best advice I can give any couple is to make the day your own! Embrace you and your spouse-to-be’s unique wants, needs, and personalities. You don’t need to keep any traditions that don’t align with who you are and what you want!
Here are some untraditional things you can do at your wedding to make it your own:
Your Wedding Party:
Pick your Favourites
Don’t feel pressured to have anyone specific in your wedding party. You want the people who will make you feel comfortable, excited, and stress-free on your big day!
Traditionally, girls are on the bride’s side and guys are on the groom’s side. Regardless of gender, mix it up depending who you want to stand next to you!
On that note, remember you don’t NEED a wedding party!
Make Your Attire Fun
Let your wedding party’s personalities shine through with their outfit!
One of my favourite wedding party trends is having your bridesmaids dress in all different (yet complementary) colours and styles. Different colours, styles, and textures will make your wedding photos pop! The key is to have at least one cohesive element between all outfits.
Your friends will thank you for letting them choose something they feel comfortable in! Need some inspiration? Check out my Wedding Party Style Pinterest board!
The Ceremony:
Sign your marriage license before the ceremony privately.
Spend some precious time together before you say “I do” in front of the world! This will come with some legal obligations, and best to consult with your officiant for accurate practices regarding signing before the ceremony.
Do your vows in private during your first look
Sharing your vows privately before you walk down the aisle will make you both excited and emotional to officially tie the knot. You’ll be able to feel more present during the ceremony because you won’t be worried about saying the wrong thing or everyone watching you!
Have someone not in the wedding party be your witness
Traditionally, the maid of honour and best man sign your marriage license as a witness. Instead, choose a family friend, close family member, or someone special to you both. Whomever you choose, they’ll feel honoured to help you mark the next chapter of your life!
Having your guests sit wherever during the ceremony
Embrace guests sitting where they choose, rather than on traditional sides.
Create statement aisles for the ceremony
Not all ceremony aisles need to be straight! You can create a circle, curves, or any pattern you’d like.
Anyone can walk you down the aisle
Walking down the aisle isn’t only for parents! You can choose anyone to walk you down the aisle. Whether you choose a friend, aunt, uncle, cousin, mom, dad, or all of the above, pick someone who will support you. Pick two people maximum to walk with you!
The Decor and Details
Opt for a Bold Stone and Cut
You don’t need a clear cut diamond ring! More and more couples are choosing nontraditional wedding bands and stones. Choose a ring that fits your unique style that you’ll love for years to come. On that note, if a ring isn’t your style, consider some other options! Is a fancy watch more your style? Or, you could pick out a pair of your partner’s dream shoes to give to them. Focus on your partner’s wishes! There truly is no right or wrong.
Add Pops of Colour
Go bold with your colour palette while still being tasteful! Your flowers, dresses, and decor are great places to start. Who said you needed to wear a white dress down the aisle? Or a black tuxedo? Choose colours you and your future partner truly love!
Going Green is In
Being conscious of what you’re using at your wedding is trendy! Your wedding can be kind to the environment and beautiful at the same time. Try to rent items instead of purchasing. You’ll keep extra items out of the landfill! You could also opt for a ceremony and reception space all-in-one to cut down on extra mileage for guests. When searching for decor pieces, search for reusable or recyclable items like candlesticks or glassware. You can even take these pieces home as a reminder of your wedding and cherish them for years to come.
The People:
Spend the Night Together
Traditionally, couples have spent the night before their wedding apart. Wouldn’t it be amazing to spend the morning with your spouse-to-be on your wedding day? There’s no better way to calm any nerves than waking up beside your best friend and future spouse!
It can be hard to spend quality time with your new spouse on your wedding day! Spending the night before your nuptials together also gives you extra time together. Enjoy your morning together getting ready and helping each other get dressed.
Want to spend some extra time together on your special day? Here are some tips for you!
Invite your Favourite People
You might think it’s polite to invite your dad’s aunt or old friend you haven’t seen since high school. Everyone who attends your special day should be someone you’re excited about coming to celebrate you. It’s your day and your party! Invite your favourite people to help celebrate your love story and your next chapter.
Remember, your wedding should be one of the happiest days of your life! It’s important to reflect on what you and your future spouse truly want on your special day.
Searching for some untraditional wedding inspiration? Check out Katie and Rich’s cottage wedding weekend at Camp Timberlane.
Planning a wedding that goes against the grain? I’d love to be a part of your day! Let’s connect to see how I can make your dreams a reality!
