At a traditional wedding, the only reception activities are dinner and dancing. We love multiplayer classics that get guests up on their feet including Dance, Dance Revolution, Rock Band or Guitar Hero, but gamer couples (and guests) might have their own favorites they want to have on hand! You could even do something else instead of a wedding. The brides father is waiting to give her away to another man!!! Others may need you to arrange vendors and decor yourself. An all-white wedding cake will never go out of style, but a multi-dimensional brushstroke cake feels decidedly more creative. You can even shop for your wedding products. You dont have to be hosting a Halloween wedding to exchange vows in a cemetery. Impressive Non-Traditional Wedding Reception Ideas Shan February 24th, 2014 These original wedding reception ideas are sure to leave you inspired. Wedding Planning Tips & Tools. Many businesses and public locations are available for your event. Most important, you can save thousands of dollars by renting a non-wedding location. Traditional weddings come with the usual expenses. Some locations may need you to arrange vendors and decor yourself. If the idea of adding a couple of games to your wedding day sound like fun, by all means, have at it! Vows, rings, blusher folded back, kiss. Rent a poker table, set up 10 seats and hire a dealer for the night. Corn hole is the perfect lawn game for couples that want to make extra activities feel like a cohesive part of the overall wedding dcor. Retro aesthetics are still trending hot. And unreachable by others. Wood Plank Seating Chart Source: Lena Mirisola One of those people who wants a non-wedding wedding? Wedding Planning Tips & Tools. Another approach to wedding bingo is to encourage some ice-breaking by marking off the card with the initials of someone who matches a given description. Not literally, of course. Keep things exciting for years to come! There are so many ways to get creative with how your guests to take selfies and group shots together. Traditional weddings are old and are rooted in traditions from Western European culture. If you are nature lovers, consider any space on, above, or below the open ground. Flowers tend to be the go-to to dress a wedding reception table but using herb plants in terracotta pots instead will surely delight your guests. But be prepared. SALLY PINERA / Design by Michela Buttignol. State or National Parks. For our wedding, we had a non -religious ceremony and asked our officiant to develop a special script for us. If you are having second thoughts on that Times change and different types of weddings flourish. One of the most well-known Judeo-Christian wedding traditions is the unity candle. With its rustic charm and authentic cabins, you and your guests can transport yourselves to a weekend of classic camp adventures. Find out if there is an ethical community near you through the American Ethical Union. Our personal favorite right now? A non-white wedding dress is the unconventional choice for that bride that loves to stand out. Before the wedding, write down three to five prompts on separate pieces of paper (e.g., "the time we went to Spain," "the day I met you," etc.). (Since you'll be writing the dares, you can tailor the dares to your guests' comfort level.). Itll give them a chance to talk with attendees they may not already know, and will also ensure that the most important moments of your day are captured from all angles. Synchronized swimmers will add a touch of whimsy and theatrics to any wedding with a pool at the venue. The organ music intensifies. County clerks, for example. 9. 2. For example, guests could record a message on a special phone, write out postcards for a beautiful display in your home, have your guests take polaroids, or even have a typewriter for a vintage vibe. 7.2 Hiring a wedding planner. 6:15 p.m.: Introduction of the wedding party and newlyweds 6:20 p.m.: First dance - Song ideas 6:25 p.m.: Toasts - Get tips for a successful toast 6:40 p.m.: Blessing over the meal 6:45 p.m.: Dinner service begins (music volume is lowered) 7:30 p.m.: Father-daughter dance, followed by mother-son dance 7:40 p.m.: Bouquet toss (alternative options) & garter toss Such as who participates, the location, and what is said during the ceremony. The bride and groom each hold a lit candle and use it to light a third unlit candle, together as one. Thanks. Any aspect of the ceremony is available to change. Buy your own sparklers here. Check for adequate access to electricity, water, refrigeration, etc. The truth is, if you don't have dancing, chances are most folks won't even miss it. Unconventional venues often have more availability and flexibility when it comes to scheduling. . Have an ornate cake table with several single-layer versions or other desserts. Or maybe it's "picnic" and you have a bounce house and a piata and a cook out. In this post: Lessons from our non-traditional wedding's hits and misses that might help you come up with unconventional wedding ideas and activities of your own. She also went with a shorter reception length, because mid-day events don't usually involve dancing. When it comes to non-traditional wedding ideas, one that really stands out is a private vow exchange. But, the specifics of the ceremony and reception have changed a lot over time. 8: Indoor Games If you are having an indoor wedding without dancing, try games. As well as attempts to keep some innocence and mystery before the nuptials. In fact, weddings often feel the most special when theyre a unique blend of long-practiced customs and fresh details that are personal to the couple. S'mores Gather your guests around campfires or fire pits and enjoy these sweet treats. But this custom actually derives from an old age contract. I have also included information on other considerations. Cruise ship getaway. 3. As well as attempts to keep some innocence and mystery before the nuptials. Wedding Piata. This idea works best for a daytime reception with plenty of natural light and wood tables. Have each set of parents give away their son or daughter to the bride(s) or groom(s). At each guest's seat, leave a cute sheet with some trivia questions about the two of youthey could be multiple choice, true/false questions or fill-in-the-blank. My FW and I are hosting a second reception across the country from our wedding location to celebrate with guests and family who can't make the trip safely. Several online churches will ordain regardless of religion. Plus, it's X's and O's (i.e. If you do not get into the formality of a church ceremony and regular reception, keep scrolling. If you are having second thoughts on that Times change and different types of weddings flourish. Its ideal if you want your nuptials to be low-key and intimate. We also participate in other similar affiliate programs. 7.3 Photographer. The equipment is light and portable, and the classic game is easy enough for guests of all ages to play. Up the stakes with your photo scavenger hunt by turning it into a contest where you'll vote for the best photo in each category after the wedding. Realistically, the reception will end around 4:30 PM to allow for clean up, etc. Wedding favors can be one of the most enjoyable aspects of a wedding for both you and the guests. Some do not realize alternative wedding Non-traditional wedding venues are all around if you know where to look. Instead of giving away the bride, have each set of parents take in the future spouse. But what will really put a smile on your face when you take out your photos in a few years are the funny moments your photographer captured. Wedding Reception Timeline Includes: Cocktail Hour Invitation to Dinner Grand Entrance First Dance Welcome Toasts Dinner Wedding Party Toasts Parent Dances Bouquet and Garter Toss Cake Cutting Last Song Grand Exit Printable Wedding Reception Timeline Final Thoughts! Tarot Card Reader Abby Jiu Photography You don't have to be an astrology expert to enjoy an aura reading. Guests: Guests are seated. There are tons of options to choose from where . See 26-29 for some specific ideas. Classic games including Yahtzee, Uno, Scrabble and Life are all great options. If you want your wedding reception intros to be a little more non-traditional, feel free to move any of these around, but here is the typical order of introductions: Your DJ will introduce any grandparents first (or if they would prefer to stay in their seat, the DJ can acknowledge them to get things started) Parents of the bride Cocktail reception Skip the expensive linens and complicated place settings. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Instead, opt for an elegant, yet relaxed evening cocktail reception. Non-traditional wedding venues are all around if you know where to look. They split at the alter. Finally, don't forget the government-run facilities as well. Marriages may also be solemnized by a religious society, religious institution, or religious organization of this state, according to the regulations and customs of the society, institution, or organization, when either party to the marriage to be solemnized is a member of such society, institution or organization. Three Outdoor Wedding Themes We Love. Some locations may be prepared to handle an all-inclusive wedding. 10. Don't try to have the wedding that everyone else has. By: Lauren Gordon Enter Slideshow 1 / 50 ALL PHOTOS X Close The bride and groom open the dance floor with their first dance, and other traditional dances include dancing with their parents and the entire bridal party dancing. The responsibilities of a best man include supporting the groom throughout the wedding planning process and standing next to him on the day of the wedding. The ULC website has a state-by-state look-up. unconventional wedding planning ideas if you are on a budget, the bridal jumpsuits shopping section for inspiration, 76 Unique Non Traditional Wedding Venue Ideas, acrylic letters guest book alternative is on Etsy, 37 Cheap and Unique Wedding Favor Ideas for Guests, 35 Non-Traditional Wedding Ideas for Alternative Wedding Planning, 10 Non-Traditional Wedding Ceremony Ideas, How to Pull Off an Online Wedding from your Living Room, 37 Non-Traditional Wedding Favor Ideas Youll Adore, 75 Unconventional Wedding Ideas on a Budget. Youll still stand out but not in the traditional way. Contrast the Unconventional to the Traditional Wedding Ceremony. Your state must recognize the organization. If there are no obvious choices for a flower girl or ring bearer, omit them from the ceremony. And, in certain locales, learning how to line dance is exactly what the doctor ordered! Instead of best man and maid of honor speeches, have those in the wedding party share their best stories. There is a set order to things that is straightforward and easy to follow. Throwing Rice as the Couple Leaves Wedding Tradition For some time, people believed that rice was harmful to birds and stopped tossing it at the couple as they left. (Usually this involves a silly dance depending on the theme of the party.) This way, your guests will go for quality photos, not just quantity. While white is a great traditional wedding idea, there are many exquisite wedding dress styles that come in other colors. Wedding favors can be one of the most enjoyable aspects of a wedding for both you and the guests. If youre worried about visual cohesion in photos, request that they stick to a certain color palette, and choose monochrome bouquets to tie things together. See the bridal jumpsuits shopping section for inspiration. And that they file the autographed license within a designated timeframe. Whichever guests gets the most answers correct at their table can take home the centerpiece. Choosing a non-traditional venue allows you sometimes to save thousands. It's a great table game, especially for your friends' tables and bridesmaids and groomsmen (your grandparents might not always catch the occasional PG-13 humor). Tradition might be a part of your familys history, a style you have always admired, but it doesnt have to be the only part of your wedding. They can then mark off clichs or phrases during the speeches. Another non-traditional venue is a rooftop. Instead of the couple only, include the children in the vows, with hugs and kisses. ), Photo: Darinimages; Design: Wedding Boutique Phuket; Florals: Art of Flower; Chairs: M Luxury and Rento Phuket. Youll also be able to make the most of the outdoor space and sunset views to create a romantic ambience. I liked how you mentioned getting married in Vegas to save on the stress of planning the wedding. If youre a fan of spontaneity and want to forgo a big event, then invite your guests to an engagement party that will actually end up being your wedding. Get inspired by even more Star Wars wedding ideas here. We've already had a lovely Wedding Shower with games like guessing where our vacation photos were taken, and the . So pin it to your Wedding Ideas or Wedding Planning board now. Host your ceremony or reception after dinnertime so guests will have just enough time to socialize without feeling bored. The idea of renting a property through Airbnb and using that as a wedding venue seems wild enough. So show them how much they mean to you with a dedicated handwritten note for each person. Or carry something else that reflects who you are. Here are some alternative ideas for wedding party wear: Or go with other alternative wear. There are so many options when it comes to your reception layout. 12 Non Traditional Wedding Invitation Wording Ideas. Compare locations, explore vendors, and find your perfect match! You can create a hybrid wedding that blends traditions, or you can have a non-traditional, non-religious wedding that is all your own. But it doesnt have to be a traditional book. Food truck catering is the new trend for informal and sociable weddings. I should share this with her so she'll get her ideas on where to have her wedding. So, ensure your officiant checks with the local authorities to see if there are any additional requirements. If you are looking for a non-traditional wedding ceremony idea to make your special day a little more unique, we have you covered! Or hold your event at a unique non-traditional wedding venue. The new trend involves spending part of the day doing an adventure. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This option is so obvious I didnt even give it a number! It has also been influenced by different cultures and traditions outside of Europe, especially as people are now more exposed to alternative cultures. Everyone knows the infamous superstition that if you dont spend your wedding eve apart, then youll be faced with bad luck during your marriage. Thank you for all of the work that you have put into this website. My partner and I have two kids together and are planning on getting married over the summer. Weddings are full of emotions, laughter, and excitement. Change Up Your Wedding Ceremony Photo: Mirelle Carmichael Photography One of the most traditional parts of any wedding is usually the ceremony. Follow in the footsteps of Bianca Jagger who first stole the show with a bridal suit in 1971. Our favorite one is the Gold Reception package. Skip a full-on reception. While theres absolutely nothing wrong with going the traditional route, theres also no rule that says you cant stray from the norm. I am definitely pinning this to my Pinterest and will be bookmarking the website to use as a reference. Outdoor wedding cocktail hour games table tennis croquet or mini-golf giant garden Jenga bouncy castle connect four life-size chess sack race bowling pins ring toss limbo set Want to really make your wedding party happy? Combine your love of adreline-inducing activities with your special day. 1. For example, croquembouche, cannoli, homemade pies, cupcakes, a candy bar, parfaits, and individual cakes. If you plan to have a ceremony with a full contingent of family and friends present, read below. All thats required is a certificate-signing procedure conducted by a legally-sanctioned person. 17. Traditional wedding venues book up to years in advance. But if youre choosing an informal celebration and want everyone to feel relaxed then place some around your venue. Set up a self-serve drink station instead of a full-service bar. From heated games to laugh-out-loud moves, wedding games like this will be remembered by all present. It can help make things simpler on the day and keep costs down. A carnival classic, setting up a ring toss game is sure to bring out your guests' competitive spirit. Similarly, if you still want to keep bouquets but make them a bit different then go for mismatched arrangements. If you want non-traditional wedding ideas that are subtle, then opt for a bouquet alternative. Go non-traditional with your walk down the aisle. Those who serve often reflect that connection via the ceremony or reception location. Here are some unique locations ideas to inspire your own wedding reception or ceremony ideas. Women on the left, men on the right. Some do not realize alternative wedding planning flourishes in this age of individuality. Aquariums or Zoos. shop here. Ethical organization leaders are humanists that can perform wedding ceremonies. 8. For instance, create swirls, a semi-circle, or a ring around you and your partner. Its likely your reception celebration will continue on late into the evening. So why not skip this, and go with what you feel more comfortable with. For example, pet-inspired napkins, cocktail names, or illustrations around your venue. A Wedding Riff on Cards Against Humanity, 28 Bridal Shower Game Ideas to Play With Guests. Thats the brides familys side. 50 Offbeat Wedding Ideas for the Non-Traditional Bride If you want your day to be a truly signature one, there are plenty of subtle alterations you can make to classic wedding traditions.