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Ideas that can
Make Your Wedding
Distinctive
Pretty Disposables
Most of us have been to weddings with disposable cameras on the
tables, but look out for all the new disposable camera designs.
Personalized Ceremony Programs
You can include pictures of the wedding party so all of your guests
know who is who. Or include the story of how you met. Or perhaps
a poem or words to a song that have special meaning to you both.
Purposeful Postage
Let your stamps set the tone of the event: hearts, flowers, lighthouses,
sporting events, and so on.
Choosing Your Wedding Party
It is your wedding. If it is difficult to choose between your sister
and best friend as maid of honor
have both. Two flower girls
or junior bridesmaids are also popular ideas.
Themed Showers/Bachelor Parties
Ideas are endless here: For her--lingerie, candle party, kitchen
supplies (there are several companies like Tupperware and Pampered
Chef). For him--perhaps a tool party.
For that last night out with the guys or girls, consider some alternatives
such as going wine tasting, to a casino, or perhaps to a favorite
restaurant.
Welcome Gifts
A gesture of appreciation for your out-of-town guests is to have
a gift in their hotel room awaiting their arrival. Here are some
ideas: homemade cookies, fruit basket, flowers, or a scented candle.
(Don't forget to attach a note so the hotel doesn't get the credit!)
Bilingual Vows
If you are marrying someone from a different ethnic background,
lean and exchange your vows in each other's native language.
Walking down the Aisle
Traditionally your father has the honor, though many brides are
opting for one of the following: father and stepfather, father and
mother, just mother, or brothers or uncles.
The Story of Love
The officiant can tell the story of how you fell in love. Also,
you can have it done as a little book on each table. Nothing tells
the story better than a video or picture montage.
Don't Turn Your Backs
Have the officiant be the one with his back to the guests, so not
only can your guests see you better, they might also hear you better.
Fun Photos
As you enter the reception site, you may have a collection of pictures.
Here are some ideas: the bride and groom growing up, including their
courtship, family collages, or perhaps the parents' and/or grandparents'
wedding photographs.
Your Names in Stone
Consider incorporating a large stone carved with your names and
the date to be used as part of the decor for an outdoor wedding
or as a doorstopper upon entering the reception site.
An Arch of Love
On your invitations, you could request for everyone to bring a flower
to add to an arch, which you will walk through for the processional.
Table Titles
Each table can have its own title using an endless variety of themes.
Choose one that fits the two of you. For example, if you love music,
you can use songs or bands/musicians: "The Elvis or Love Me
Tender Table." Flowers and favorite movies are examples of
other fun possibilities.
Your Favorite Food
If you both love Italian food, have a pasta feast with all the trimmings
and Italian music to make the atmosphere just perfect.
Your Vows & Theirs
Plan for the officiant to request all the married couples that are
present to renew their vows along with the two of you. It can make
your wedding a real celebration of love.
A Marriage Dance
Call all of the married couples onto the dance floor (including
yourselves). After a couple of minutes, have the MC say "If
you've been married less than 1 year, 2 year, etc., please have
a seat" until there is one couple left on the floor.
Engrave Your Rings
Make the engraving something that is special or unique to the two
of you. "Of course I Will," for example, signifies your
answer to his marriage proposal. If fitting, the name of your song,
"For Always," could make a beautiful engraving.
Toss The Bouquet?
Some brides are choosing to present the bouquet to their mother,
new mother (in-law), grandmother, or another special person.
Will They Ever Wear it Again?
Yes, if you let each bridesmaid choose their own style of dress
(with your approval) as long as they stay within a specific color
scheme.
Guest Presentation
If your wedding is small, you can have a slide show with each guest
pictured and a few words on what they have meant to you. A collage
of the guests is a fun idea. Be careful, however, not to forget
anyone. Check your list. If you do not have time, this could be
a job for someone who really wants to help.
Announcements/Introductions
With so many details on your mind, you may want to thank your guests
and those who helped you during your planning. You might want to
give a simple introduction of guests who came a long way or who
are very special to you.
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