Unconventional Wedding: Creative Ways To Make It Unique

Planning a wedding? Congratulations! If you're looking to break with tradition, there are endless ways to make your big day unique. From the venue to the vows, here are some ideas to make your wedding non-traditional.

First, consider the location. An unconventional venue can set the tone for a non-traditional wedding. Think outside the box: a museum, a rooftop, an amphitheatre, or even your own backyard. You could also go for a junkyard venue or a colourful Airbnb.

Next, shake up the ceremony itself. Write your own vows or include your children, pets, or grandparents in the proceedings. You could also incorporate unique cultural traditions, like jumping the broom or planting a tree. If you're not into flowers, try alternative bouquets made from lanterns, ornaments, or floral hoops. And feel free to ditch the wedding party altogether!

When it comes to attire, forget the white dress and tux. Opt for a colourful ensemble, a wedding suit, or a cosy jumper and floaty skirt. Let your bridesmaids express their style with mismatched dresses, and encourage the groomsmen to wear whatever makes them comfortable.

For the reception, how about a cocktail party instead of a sit-down dinner? Host food trucks, arcade games, or a bouncy house. Serve signature cocktails with a twist, like popsicles dipped in citrus-infused concoctions. And don't feel limited to a wedding cake—why not offer a cotton candy machine or a doughnut wall instead?

Finally, add some interactive elements. Create a playful guest book, like a LEGO structure or Polaroids. Have guests participate in a ring-warming ceremony or a meditation before the vows. And don't be afraid to walk down the aisle to an upbeat song!

Remember, it's your wedding, so feel free to make it your own. Get creative, have fun, and enjoy this special day that reflects who you are as a couple.

Ditch the suit and gown

If you're looking to shake up the traditional wedding dress code, there are endless ways to get creative and make your wedding stand out. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Go beyond white: White has long been synonymous with wedding dresses, but there's no rule that says you have to stick to this colour. Opt for a bold colour or pattern, or even a fun jumpsuit or three-piece suit.
• Mix and match: Instead of matching bridesmaids' and groomsmen's outfits, mix and match styles and colours. Let your wedding party express their own style and personality.
• Unconventional accessories: Accessorise with unique adornments, from bedazzled headpieces to printed pocket squares. You can also play around with unexpected shoes, like cowboy boots instead of classic bridal heels.
• Creative "bouquets": Have your bridesmaids carry something other than flowers, such as lanterns, ornaments, or floral hoops.
• Non-traditional venues: Choose a unique venue that reflects your personality. For example, a famous non-traditional wedding venue in Las Vegas is a "junkyard," offering a colourful backdrop for small weddings or elopements.
• Alternative fabrics: Create a custom fabric for your wedding outfit, or use it for tablecloths, backdrops, or other décor.
• Suit up: A chic, tailored suit is a classic choice for wedding guests and members of the wedding party. But more and more brides are choosing to walk down the aisle in these two-piece looks as well.

Host a backyard wedding

Hosting a wedding in your backyard is a great way to save money on venue fees and create a unique, intimate, and comfortable atmosphere for your special day. Here are some tips to help you plan the perfect backyard wedding:

Logistics and Planning:

• Power and Electrical: Rent generators to accommodate the extra power needs for lighting, sound systems, and food prep equipment.
• Toilet Facilities: Provide additional toilet facilities if your guest list is larger than 20 people. Consider upscale portable toilet trailers with amenities like lighting, mirrors, and sinks.
• Yard Maintenance and Setup: Plan yard maintenance in advance to allow time for plants to fill out and flowers to bloom. Ensure the ground is level for chairs, tables, and a dance floor.
• Insurance and Permits: Contact your homeowner's insurance to understand what's covered, and check with city officials about any required permits, noise ordinances, fire codes, and zoning issues.
• Notify Neighbours: Inform your neighbours about your wedding plans in advance, providing details such as the ceremony time and parking arrangements. Consider giving them a small gift, such as earplugs, as a token of appreciation.
• Trash and Recycling: Rent plenty of trash and recycling bins, and consider having someone monitor the bins throughout the event to ensure they don't become too full.
• Weather Plan: Prepare a backup plan in case of inclement weather. If your house is large enough, plan to move the event indoors. Otherwise, put a hold on a tent early, and ensure it's completely covered to protect against rain or harsh weather.
• Timeline: Work around the available light to ensure beautiful photos. Avoid downtime between events, and consider doing all photos before the ceremony to keep guests entertained. Be considerate of your neighbours and cut the party short if needed.

Space Planning and Design:

• Ceremony Setup: Choose a backdrop that highlights the natural beauty of your backyard, such as large trees or the house itself. Set up the ceremony space to make use of the shade or natural warmth, depending on the season.
• Reception Space: Tents are perfect for designating a reception space and hanging lights or floral installations. Alternatively, dining under the stars creates a romantic, open-air atmosphere.
• Cocktail Hour: Plan a cocktail hour to keep guests entertained while you take couple portraits and wedding party photos.
• Lighting: Use twinkle lights, string lights, lanterns, chandeliers, and votives to create a romantic ambiance and ensure safe navigation for your guests.
• Guest Comfort: Provide insect repellent, sunscreen, blankets, and hand-held fans to ensure your guests' comfort regardless of the weather.
• Rentals: Create a comprehensive rentals checklist to ensure you have everything you need, including food prep/storage equipment, tables, chairs, cutlery, glassware, napkins/table linens, lighting, and generators.
• Catering: Consult with your caterer about their equipment needs and kitchen space requirements. Ensure they have enough space to prepare and cook the food, and consider renting additional kitchen equipment if needed.
• Dance Floor: Rent a dance floor surface to define the party space and create a backdrop for photos.
• Décor and Colours: Choose colours that complement the natural elements of your backyard, such as earthy tones or vibrant pops of colour. Incorporate string lights, lanterns, and DIY décor like handmade signage or photo displays.

The weekday wedding

If you're looking to make your wedding stand out, choosing a weekday over the traditional weekend can be a great way to make your special day unique and memorable. Here are some reasons why a weekday wedding could be perfect for you:

It's Non-Traditional and Unique

A weekday wedding automatically makes your nuptials non-traditional and adds a cool factor to your celebration. It's a great way to showcase your individuality and let your personality shine through. By choosing a weekday, you're already setting your wedding apart from the majority of celebrations and creating a distinctive experience for you and your guests.

Cost-Effective and Budget-Friendly

One of the biggest advantages of a weekday wedding is the cost. Since Saturdays are the most popular and in-demand, they tend to be the most expensive. By opting for a weekday, you can take advantage of lower prices and added incentives offered by venues and vendors, who are eager to fill those less popular dates. This includes potential discounts on venue rentals, catering, photography, and other services, making it a budget-friendly option.

Dream Venue and Vendor Availability

Your dream venue and vendors are more likely to be available on weekdays. Popular venues and vendors are often booked months or even years in advance for Saturdays. However, by considering a weekday, you increase your chances of securing that sought-after location or photographer. You might even be able to book them at short notice, which is usually impossible on weekends.

Intimate Affair with VIP Guests

A weekday wedding almost always means a smaller guest list. This is because guests might have work or other commitments during the week, so only your closest friends and family will be able to attend. This creates a more intimate atmosphere, allowing you to spend quality time with your VIP guests and creating lasting memories with those who matter the most.

Travel and Accommodation Savings

Hotels typically have lower room rates during the week due to lower demand, so you and your guests can benefit from more affordable accommodation options. Additionally, flights and other transportation options tend to be cheaper on weekdays, making it easier on everyone's wallets.

Fun Themes and Special Dates

Weekday weddings open up opportunities for creative themes, like a "Taco Tuesday" celebration or a "Thirsty Thursday" cocktail affair. You can also choose a unique and memorable date, such as 2/2/22, which falls on a Wednesday. These fun twists will make your wedding stand out and give your guests a unique experience.

Planning Tips for a Weekday Wedding:

• Give your guests plenty of advance notice so they can request time off work and make necessary arrangements.
• Consider an evening ceremony to accommodate guests who work during the day. Keep rush-hour traffic in mind when setting the start time.
• If possible, run your chosen date by your VIP guests to ensure their attendance.
• Plan an earlier ending time, especially if your wedding falls on a night before a workday, so guests can wrap up the celebration on a high note.
• For destination weddings, schedule the wedding towards the end of the trip, allowing guests to enjoy activities and bond beforehand.

A weekday wedding can be a fantastic way to make your special day stand out. It offers cost savings, unique themes, and a more intimate atmosphere. So, if you're looking for a non-traditional twist, embracing the weekday wedding could be the perfect choice for you!

Host cocktails instead of a sit-down reception

Hosting cocktails instead of a sit-down reception is a great way to make your wedding non-traditional. Here are some tips and ideas to help you plan a unique and memorable cocktail-style wedding reception:

Venue Selection:

Choose a venue that can comfortably accommodate your guest list in a standing-room-only format. Cocktail-style receptions offer more flexibility in venue selection, as you don't need space for a seated dinner. Consider unique venues such as art galleries, historic homes, or small neighbourhood bistros. Restaurants and hotels are also great options, as they are familiar with this type of service and can provide in-house catering and rentals.

Food and Beverage:

Offer a variety of food options to cater to different dietary preferences and ensure your guests are well-fed. Serve an assortment of hors d'oeuvres, including both passed bites and food stations such as a raw bar or cheese display. Provide a full bar or offer a selection of Champagne, wine, and signature cocktails. Consider heartier options like sliders, pasta, baos, arancini, or dumplings to keep your guests satisfied.

Staffing:

Hire enough servers and bartenders to ensure your guests are well-served and to avoid long wait times. A balance of bars and passed service is ideal. Specify your desired reception style to your venue early on so they can help you determine the appropriate number of staff.

Dress Code:

If you wish, adjust the dress code to reflect the more casual nature of a cocktail reception. You can still combine a cocktail-style reception with formal attire if desired. If you have a bridal party, consider giving them a colour and allowing them to select their own gowns, adding a unique and personalized touch.

Lounge Areas:

Create designated lounge areas with comfortable seating, especially for elderly or less mobile guests. These areas can be placed away from the entertainment to provide a quiet space for guests to relax and mingle.

Entertainment:

Book entertainment suitable for the available space, such as a DJ or a small ensemble playing in the background as your guests mingle. If you have the room, you can even include lawn games or interactive food and beverage stations to encourage guest interaction and create a playful atmosphere.

Timing and Schedule:

Cocktail-style receptions are typically shorter than traditional sit-down dinners. Plan a detailed schedule for the evening, including key moments such as the first dance, food stations, cake cutting, and toasts from loved ones. Aim to serve hors d'oeuvres for the first hour, then open the food stations to keep guests engaged and avoid hunger.

Include your furry friends

Pets are family, so why not have them by your side on your wedding day? Including your furry friends in your wedding ceremony is a fun and heartwarming way to make your nuptials unique and memorable. Here are some ideas to involve your beloved pets in your special day:

Dress Them for the Occasion

Have your pets dress to impress! Dressing up your pets in festive attire or wedding-themed outfits can be a delightful addition to your ceremony. For dogs, consider a bow tie, a dress, or even a tuxedo to match the wedding party. For cats, a flower crown or a festive bandana can be a cute option. Just be mindful of their comfort and keep an eye on those sharp claws!

Walk Them Down the Aisle

Involve your pets in the wedding procession by having them walk down the aisle. They can accompany the bridesmaids, groomsmen, or even the flower girl or ring bearer. It will surely bring smiles to your guests' faces and make for adorable photo opportunities. Just ensure your pets are well-trained and comfortable with large gatherings.

Include Them in Your Bridal Party

Your pets can be more than just guests—make them a part of your bridal party! They can be your honorary ring bearer or flower girl, adding a touch of whimsy to the ceremony. If you have multiple pets, you can even assign them different roles. Imagine your dog proudly carrying the wedding rings down the aisle or your cat spreading petals before the bride's entrance.

Feature Them in Your Wedding Attire

Incorporate your pets into your wedding attire for a truly unique touch. You can have a veil embroidered with a depiction of your beloved dog or a pocket square customized with their silhouette. You can also wear a custom pin or a brooch featuring their likeness. It's a subtle yet meaningful way to keep them close to your heart on your big day.

Take Photos with Them

Capture precious memories with your furry friends by including them in your wedding photography. You can have them join you for engagement photos, bridal portraits, or even the getting-ready moments. These photos will not only be adorable keepsakes but also a way to showcase the special role your pets play in your life.

Create Pet-Themed Wedding Favors

Incorporate your pets into your wedding favors to give your guests a memorable memento. You can offer treats such as cookies or candies with your pets' faces on them. Alternatively, you can provide practical favors like koozies, hand sanitizer bottles, or stickers adorned with their likeness. Your guests will appreciate the creativity, and it's a fun way to celebrate your furry friends.

Including your furry friends in your non-traditional wedding is a wonderful way to showcase your love for them and add a unique twist to your special day. Just remember to consider their comfort and well-being throughout the festivities, and your pets are sure to leave paw prints on your hearts and your wedding memories!

Frequently asked questions