While some people prefer a more sedate and traditional wedding to celebrate what they see as a solemn occasion there are others who would rather take a step outside of tradition and do something that will not only take their guests by surprise, but have them talking about your wedding for months or even years to come.
When looking for something unusual to incorporate into your wedding ceremony or reception, it is always a good idea to take into account your venue and the guests you have invited. While you may want to surprise them; charm them even; you don’t want to offend them either, but it is your day, so why not make it a day worth remembering?
Go Tropical
Going tropical for your wedding – and especially for your wedding reception – can be a definite eye-opener. Bringing in tropical plants, parrots and Caribbean flavored music can lend a decidedly sultry approach to any wedding, or make it Hawaiian and let guests (or even the bride and bridesmaids) compete in a Hula dance .
Chinese Sky Lanterns
Bring the traditions of the orient into your wedding by releasing Chinese sky lanterns during your ceremony or reception. Having each couple in attendance release a lantern can lend a dramatic and touching moment to your day.
Choreograph your First Dance
Don’t just stand there and sway to the music – stun your friends with a professionally choreographed first dance that will take their breath away.
Bring in the Mimes
A mime troupe can be a staggeringly original addition to any wedding ceremony or reception, especially for the less traditional couples who have a wicked sense of humor. In a reception setting, mimes can be a great way to get the guests involved in the activities or get them laughing.
Furry Ring Bearers
If you are both dog lovers, why not include your best four-footed friends in your big day? Choose some glitzy collars and attach the rings to them, then have the maid of honor and the best man hold the leash for your furry friends.
Stage a Flash Mob
You’ve seen them on YouTube, the flash mobs that descend on different locations to startle people out of their complacency. Why not arrange for a flash mob to descend on your wedding or wedding reception? In a ceremony setting especially, this would be incredibly effective, with say, a traditional song being played, then taken over by something far more upbeat and celebratory.
The Wedding Piñata
While Piñata’s are usually used at birthday parties, a large piñata can be incorporated into your reception very easily. Fill it with surprises for your guests (such as gift cards, lotto tickets, some silver dollars, lots of candy and even more confetti. Let the bride, groom, best man and maid of honor take turns being blindfolded and taking swings at it until it bursts.
Gifts for your Guests
Having a gift ready for each of your guests as they arrive at your wedding reception can be a very different approach. It doesn’t have to be much; but make sure that it is wrapped uniquely and presented in an usual manner. Making “wedding crackers” instead of Christmas crackers is another way to do this, and will give your guests something to remember you by.
This article was written by Sarah Rigos, founder of the cash registry Starlight Registry.
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