Many couples who are in the process of planning their wedding feel extremely disconnected by all of the traditional aspects. More and more couples are stepping away from conventional wedding planning and instead are creating a unique celebration that’s a reflection of who they are. Rather than focusing on what you don’t want to include on your wedding day, start by figuring out what feels most like ‘you.’

If this sounds like you and you’re feeling unsure where to start, here are 10 wedding ideas I’ve put together for the non traditional couple:

Have a first look

Rather than waiting until the ceremony to see one another, consider having a first look instead. This option would also allow you to get the majority of your portraits together prior to the ceremony, freeing you to join your guests at the reception right away. This is a great option to ensure that you have ample time to visit with your guests without the need to pause after the ceremony. If you’re considering a first look, I wrote an entire blog post on it here.

Serve your guests a signature cocktail

What better way to infuse your personality than by serving your guests a signature drink? This is such a fun and unique way to welcome your guests into the reception. A signature cocktail will elevate the overall guest experience, serving your signature drink during your cocktail hour as a happy hour beverage will create a lively start to the evening and transitions smoothly into the rest of the evening with your regular bar menu.

Opt for no wedding party

For many couples, having a wedding party to stand up beside them is a time honoured tradition. Couples who are planning a non-traditional or simpler day are debating whether to have a wedding party at all. Choosing not to have a wedding party could stem from a number of reasons - it eliminates potential stress, it can cut down on costs for you and your party, and allows the day to be all about you. You may feel that you can’t narrow down your friends and want them to enjoy the day as guests instead. You can choose to involve your friends in other ways such as having them to get ready with you, or ask them to be MC’s during your reception or to officiate your ceremony. This can still create a really special and memorable experience.

Have a smaller guest list

In the last few years, the wedding industry has seen more intimate, smaller weddings than ever before. Having a smaller guest list for your wedding celebration will also help reduce your wedding costs as well as the stress involved in organizing a ton of people. By keeping your guest list limited to close friends and family, you ensure that your cherished loved ones are present and that your wedding day remains focused on meaningful connections. This way, you can fully enjoy your special day without it being monopolized by unfamiliar faces or distant relatives.

Choose an unconventional location

For some couples, it can feel like a struggle to plan their wedding day because they haven’t been able to find a venue that fits their style and overall vibe for the day. They feel disconnected from wedding venues that are setup to host a ton of people. When choosing a venue, it also may require a minimum spend or additional rules to be followed. If you’re feeling stuck in regards to your venue, start by thinking about a location or place that’s meaningful to you. It could be something unique like renting an air BNB for the weekend that can comfortably accommodate your guests. This way you can also bring in your own food and drink. I also adore when couples consider a backyard wedding, it can be your own or a rental but there is something so intimate about having all of your friends and family gathered close, you can even set up a tent in case the weather changes. Think about the type of celebration you want to have and then decide on your location!

Plan a unique dinner

So often couples feel like they need to host an elaborate 5 course meal for their guests because it’s expected rather than thinking about what they actually want to do. If you value having a sit down dinner with your guests, think about what you and your partner really love and go from there. For example: if you really love casual dining, consider a burger bar with all the different toppings. You could also opt for a grazing table or appetizers instead of a multi-course sit down meal. Explore your options to determine which route feels like a fit!

Have a friend or family member officiate for you

Consider having a friend or close family member to officiate your ceremony. You will still need a commissioner to sign your license but someone who is close to you can share personal stories about the two of you and you’ll likely feel more comfortable having someone that you know. If you opt for no wedding party, this is a great way to recognize the friendship of one of your mutual friends by giving them a specific and important role in the day. Your officiant plays a very important part in your day as they help to share your story with your guests while getting a front row seat to witness your vows and first kiss as a married couple.

Spend the wedding eve night together

Traditionally, couples part ways the night prior to the wedding and don’t see each other again until the ceremony. If this doesn’t feel right for you, then plan to spend the night together. You could have some alone time together prior to the day beginning where you can sleep in and have breakfast and cherish your last few hours before you’re married. This may be the only time you get to be alone the entire day! You’ll likely get a good night sleep and more calm nerves having your partner sleep beside you rather than without. You can still choose to spend the night together and part ways in the morning to get ready. Sometimes it's okay to forget tradition and if it feels right, go for it!

Plan an outfit change for the reception

If you’re the couple who loves to be on the dance floor or entertaining and hosting your guests, then consider an outfit change for your reception. A reception dress might sound excessive but it’s more practical in the sense that it allows for the bride to have a more casual look while still maintaining the vibe of the day. As a couple, you may feel more comfortable into the evening in a more ‘undone’ look. You may also find having a second look provides more ability to move and dance rather than feeling stuck in a large dress or suit.

Make it a wedding weekend and celebrate over multiple days

Oftentimes your friends, family and guests are traveling from all over for your wedding nuptials so why not make it a wedding weekend with festivities over multiple days? It also gives you an opportunity to spend time with all of your people while they are together in one place. You may also find that you feel less stressed on the ‘day of’ being that you’ve been with everyone a day or two prior. Consider having a welcome day following your rehearsal with appetizers or a signature drink. After the wedding is over, host a lunch or pool party the next day so that your guests can continue to enjoy the weekend. You can make memories over multiple days rather than just one day.

Make your wedding day full of traditions that feel like a reflection of you. The beauty of planning a wedding celebration that’s all about you is that you can pick and choose elements that reflect your style. It’s vital to craft a day that feels authentically yours, not someone else’s. If you’re a couple who values paving the way and adding unique touches to your day, why not explore these wonderful unconventional wedding ideas!

if you’re inquiring about your upcoming wedding or elopement, get in touch with me here.