I'm in a very privileged position, I get to attend a HUGE number of weddings each year. Whilst every couple is different, there are a few things that seem to appear very consistently at each one.
So, with lots of you firmly strapped into the wedding planning driving seat, I thought I'd throw some really unique touches you can add to your special day.
Wedding Cocktails
I love this idea, and I think with a little bit of homework (and a healthy amount of sampling) you and your partner could create a drink that's really unique. Maybe even have 2 cocktails? His and hers, with a recipe for each one on your table, so your guests can make their own after your big day.
For those guests who don't drink, and for the kids, a non-alcoholic option is always a great shout too!
Flash Mob
I'll be the first to admit this one is a little ambitious, but it's your wedding day, why the hell shouldn't it be ambitious?! How good would it be to catch your guests completely off guard with a seemingly impromptu performance from a band, choir or dance crew? I've not completely looked into the ins and out's of this idea, but a quick look at some videos on youtube from other couples does yield some awesome results and some incredibly shocked guests!
Guest book alternatives
Whilst I love guest books, they tend to end up in a box in a cupboard somewhere collecting dust. There are so many unique ideas that you can embrace that will stand the test of time. Have a quick look on sites like Etsy and Pinterest for some inspiration on this one. I've seen things like jigsaws, thumbprint trees and all sorts. The end result is ultimately something you can frame and display in your home.
First Dances
The general consensus when it comes to your first dance is to gently sway and pretend no one is looking. It definitely doesn't have to be that way. Within the industry, I'm seeing more and more choreography businesses that are cropping up to really help you nail your first dance. Failing that, get creative, there are tons of tutorials on youtube if you haven't quite got the budget to spend on choreography. Just because it's your first dance, it doesn't have to be a slow romantic song. Pick something upbeat.
Wedding Favours
I've touched on this one before, but it's time to ditch the sugared almonds! It's possible to get almost anything personalised these days, with sites like Vistaprint offering personalised versions of anything from stickers to mousemats! This all being said, with a bit of careful advanced planning, Aliexpress and Wish are a goldmine! One couple I worked with wanted moustache-themed tie clips for the gents as favours. The ones they'd chosen were £16 each on Amazon, but because they needed a few, they hopped on Aliexpress and bulk bought the very same product at just £2 per clip! Sites like Aliexpress and Wish operate from China, so the downside is that delivery can take in some cases a couple of months for your items to arrive, but the products are EXACTLY the same as the ones on Amazon, for a fraction of the price.
I'm all about different and unique wedding ideas, so hearing what you've all got planned and in the pipeline is definitely an excitement I want to share with you!
That's me signing off for this week!
Peace, Love and Photos.
Jono x