Why say “I do” in the same way that millions of others have had? Consider planning a unique wedding that will set your ceremony and reception apart from the rest. Distinctive ideas for your ceremony and reception include eco-friendly ceremonies, outdoor celebrations, island ceremonies, and picnics.
An unforgettable ceremony and reception can be held just about anywhere… even underwater if you so desire! There really is no limit to what you can do to make the big day an extra special event. Use one-of-a-kind decorations, favors, and foods so your big day remains imprinted in your memories and those of your guests for years to come.
The Eco-Friendly Wedding
A party idea that is perfect for the 21st century is an eco-friendly ceremony. As an increasing number of people become concerned about the environment, the eco-friendly ceremony is one of the most popular and ethical of innovative ceremony ideas.
Ideas that can be used for a green celebration include sending e-invitations instead of wasting paper sending out hundreds of paper invitations that are most likely going to get thrown away. Unique wedding decorations that are friendly to the earth are also available. Try using a green decoration or two such as a paper garland or festive banner made of recycled paper. Some companies also offer useful party products that are perfect for receptions such as biodegradable and compostable plates and bamboo and cornware eating utensils.
Other factors that can make your big day eco-friendly include avoiding destination weddings, which can be fun but are not eco-friendly because of all of the flying involved. Keep it local if possible and if you absolutely must have your ceremony in an exotic locale, consider inviting only a very small number of guests.
Also plan to have your ceremony during the daytime to avoid having to use so much electricity. Besides, ceremonies with natural lighting make for better photographs. Other unique ideas for an eco-friendly ceremony include wearing a “green” dress. Find a dress that is made with organic, fair-trade fabric. Better yet, buy a vintage dress or re-use a relative’s old dress. You can also opt to serve organic food at your reception to make it more eco-friendly.
Decorations and Ideas for Outdoor Ceremonies and Receptions
If you want to get outside and experience beautiful nature instead of being cooped up indoors, having a unique wedding outdoors is an excellent option. You won’t need to decorate the ceremony site because the leaves changing colors or flowers adorning the garden are enough to make the occasion picture-perfect. However, you can add a special touch by decorating the site with bouquets of sweet smelling flowers. Flowers can enhance the atmosphere and provide a little aromatherapy for your guests. At a night ceremony or reception, tiki torches can create a wild and magical atmosphere.
A unique ceremony outdoors can take place on the beach at sunset, in a garden at a park, in the forest, atop a cliff, or just about anywhere you desire. Be sure to rent a canopy tent because the weather is always unpredictable. When planning a ceremony outdoors, consider what season you like best. Choose autumn if you’d like the backdrop in your photos to be the reds, yellows, and oranges of leaves changing color or choose spring if you want colorful flowers and fresh bouquets from local florists to surround you.
Make no mistake about it. There are a number of wedding decorations and ideas you can incorporate into your ceremony and reception to make them one-of-a-kind. After all, this is going to be one of the most important events of your life. If you believe that the love that exists between you and your partner is truly special, why not make your ceremony and reception reflect that uniqueness and depth? This is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to unique wedding ideas but hopefully it will help you get started with planning a personalized celebration that is enjoyable, unforgettable, and elegant.
