Breaking Wedding Norms: Unique Ideas for Nontraditional Weddings
Are you a couple who craves a wedding that's out of the ordinary? Tired of the standard green & white weddings? Everywhere you look on Pinterest it’s the same, tired images of colorless neutrals, rustic signage, and copy & pasted live-laugh-love decor. I don’t know about y’all but I am BORED with the standard quo. And you, my loves, are NOT boring — you are dynamic, effervescent, multipassionate kaleidoscopes!!! Your wedding should reflect that. It's our absolute favorite thing to help couples break free from the traditional wedding mold and let your magic shine with unique nontraditional ideas that will make your big day truly memorable! It’s time to get weird and think outside of the box.
Let’s outline some of our favorite traditions to ditch and our favorite fresh takes to implement on your wedding day.
To ditch
Traditional Dress Code: Of course you can’t go wrong with a classic white dress and dark tuxedo or suit — BUT, can you imagine how much more festive a fuscia tulle wedding gown with an elegant golden headdress and sequin veil would be?? Or maybe we’re talking a lilac suit with an emerald green tie & pocket square… I mean, come on!!! Stunning. Turn up the volume on your unique style. Because, be honest, are your favorite colors black & white? This is an element of your big day where you can get wildly creative. By weaving different colors, textures, and styles into your wedding wardrobe — you’ll craft a one-of-a-kind aesthetic that will ensure you look absolutely ICONIC in your wedding photos.
Traditional Wedding Ceremony: Put your own spin on the ceremony! This is the perfect opportunity to tell your story through ritual and ceremony. You can personalize this part of your wedding by writing your own vows, having a family member or friend officiate the wedding, or including cultural or religious rituals from your respective backgrounds. Get creative with who walks down the aisle in your ceremony processional (and how they do it!) — grandmas serving us flower girl vibes is our favorite thing EVER. Are there other ways in which you can involve your guests in the ceremony? Maybe passing the rings to be blessed by each of your guests, having various guests of honor reading passages or even singing a song! The sky is the limit.
Wedding Reception Activities: Again, you can’t go wrong with a classic dinner party and a phenomenal DJ dance floor moment. But, you can blow your guests minds by thinking outside the box! Switch up the order of events, make it breakfast for dinner, have a variety of food stations for guests to choose from, set up some interactive games or a silly photo booth to document the shenanigans. If you’re working within the constraints of noise ordinances, why not throw a silent disco? If you’re partying in the wilderness, perhaps you can designate a space for late night stargazing, or roast marshmallows over a bonfire!
To do
Themed Weddings: Let your imagination run wild
Step into a world of endless possibilities with a themed wedding that reflects your fantasies, hobbies, or favorite movie or book. From a spellbinding Harry Potter-themed wedding complete with wands, potions, and a Great Hall-inspired reception, to a mystical fairy tale wedding with woodland decor, fairy lights, and a whimsical dress code, we’re world building here! Incorporate uniquely inspired details, such as themed cocktails, custom signage, and specialty desserts that will transport your guests to a world of wonder and create a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Destination Weddings: Exploring the magic of faraway lands
Why settle for a local wedding when you can jet off to an enchanted location for your special day? Embrace the magic of a destination wedding and exchange your vows against breathtaking backdrops. Think grand castles, sparkling beaches, or towering forests. Whether it's a fairytale-inspired wedding in a European castle, a boho-chic elopement in a remote mountain hideaway, or a tropical beach wedding with barefoot elegance, let the destination be your muse and create a wedding that's truly wanderlust-worthy!
Elopements: Escape for an intimate and whimsical wedding adventure
Who says weddings have to be grand affairs? We love an elopement. This day is about the two of you, after all! Embrace the magic of intimacy with a whimsical elopement that's all about you and your boo. Say your vows in a secluded forest glade, on a misty mountaintop, or overlooking the rustic beauty of the Columbia River Gorge. Eat your favorite foods. Discover a beautiful new landscape. Dress to the nines and get silly while your photographer captures candid first moments of your joyful nuptials. The beauty of an elopement is you truly don’t have to please anyone but yourselves.
Cultural Weddings: Embrace your roots & celebrate your heritage
Celebrate your love story and your cultural heritage with a wedding that's rich in traditions and customs. Incorporate unique cultural elements, such as colorful ethnic attire, traditional music and dance, and authentic cuisine that reflects your roots. From a vibrant Indian wedding with ornate decor, henna tattoos, and a traditional baraat procession, to a mystical Celtic wedding with a handfasting ceremony, pagan rituals, bonfires, and Druidic symbolism, let your cultural heritage be the guiding star of your wedding journey.
High-End Touches: Elevated luxury
Going against the grain certainly does not mean you can’t luxuriate in glamour. Add an element of high-end elegance to your nontraditional wedding with exquisite details and opulent touches. Elevate your celebration with luxurious fabrics, fine dining experiences, exquisite floral arrangements, and personalized wedding favors. Create a glamorous and sophisticated ambiance with chic decor, mood lighting, and elegant stationery. Don't be afraid to indulge in the finer things and make your big day a timeless memory for all in attendance.
This is YOUR big day, and you’re no cookie-cutter couple.
Embrace your individuality and create a wedding that's truly reflective of your love story.
As a nontraditional wedding planner, I can help you bring your unique wedding vision to life with a touch of whimsy and luxury. Contact us to start planning your enchanting celebration today!
