Let's be real in 2024. Not every couple is thrilled about the prospect of a big white wedding. While traditions stick around for good reason, some couples prefer to go the unconventional route and forge their own path for their nuptials.
And we say, game on. Having an unconventional wedding means making decisions that show off you and your soon-to-be's personality and interests in the details, so that you can have a night a night to remember. Here are some of our favorite unconventional wedding ideas for a standout wedding.
Plan a stand-out ceremony and reception with these unconventional wedding ideas.
1. Offer arcade games for entertainment.
If you and your partner are more likely to claim a high score on your favorite game than bust a move on the dance floor, consider setting up an arcade for your reception entertainment. This could include classic video games like Super Mario, Pac-Man, or Donkey Kong as well as themed pinball machines and even some outdoor lawn games. Make sure to include games that are nostalgic for the two of you and are available in co-op mode.
There are a few different ways to bring this idea to life, depending on the budget and the size of your party. You can opt to rent individual machines and set them up at your venue, or you can host your reception at a local arcade. Add to the vibe with popcorn or cotton candy for your guests to snack on.
2. Create a time capsule guest book.
Put a fun twist on the standard guest book by making it a time capsule. This time capsule will preserve a very special and important moment in your lives. Plan to open the time capsule on your anniversary 10 or 20 years later and look back at all the special memories.
In your invitation, let guests know that you are using a time capsule guest book so they can bring small mementos to contribute. Have guests write short notes and use a Polaroid camera to take pictures. Put other special items from your wedding as well as your bachelor and bachelorette parties. This could include invitations, menus, and party favors. You can also include more general items that are a key part of your lifestyle.
3. Hit the thrift store to bring your wedding vision to life.
Thrift and vintage shopping has never been more popular. If you’re an avid thrifter, why not head to your favorite local shops to find decor? With a little creativity, you can source glassware, wall art, or even centerpieces for your celebration. No two pieces at the thrift store are the same, so you’ll create a vibe for your wedding that’s kitschy and eclectic.
If you enjoy going thrifting with your friends, you can also search for one-of-a-kind bridesmaid’s dresses together. Give your bridesmaids a color scheme and let them find a dress that they love. This is a bit more challenging than thrifting decor, as it can take time to find formal options in the right color. However, your bridal party will look stunning in their vintage finds, and you’ll keep costs low.
4. Serve flights of your favorite local beverages.
Drink flights are a fun alternative to your traditional bar options. Flights are a selection of small-pour drink samples. They’re often used for beer tastings, but they can also work for wine and even cocktails. If you and your partner don’t drink, you could also opt for flights of specialty non-alcoholic drinks, like juices, teas or virgin pina coladas.
This approach allows your guests to try many different flavors without overindulging. Since flights take longer to drink, this will also minimize trips to the bar during busy periods. Drink flight boards also make a great wedding favor, with many custom engraved boards available on Etsy.
5. Incorporate your favorite seasonal holiday into your wedding theme.
Holidays like Halloween, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day are fun in their own right, but they also make great wedding themes. If there’s a holiday that’s particularly special to you and your fiance, set your wedding for that time of year and incorporate it into your theme.
Encourage guests to dress up for the holiday in question. This could mean wearing sparkles for New Year’s Eve or even wearing a (tasteful) costume for Halloween. Seasonal decor touches will also bring the theme to life. You can even incorporate some holiday traditions into your celebration. For example, if your wedding is during the Christmas season, you could use pine trees in your decor and gift-wrap small favors for your guests.
6. Ditch the dress for a pantsuit or jumpsuit.
Everyone should look and feel their best on their wedding day, but not everyone feels comfortable in an ultra-feminine dress. If that’s the case for you, opt for a white pantsuit or jumpsuit instead. These options are still sleek and formal, but give you more of an opportunity to express your personal style.
7. Use snack tray centerpieces.
Food is a crucial part of any wedding celebration, and you’ll want to make sure your guests don’t feel hungry at any point. Snack tray centerpieces are a fun way to keep everyone fed. Place multi-layered trays of savory snacks on each table prior to dinner, and swap them out for dessert trays afterward.
Miniature snacks are charming and cute, and you can make them look more visually appealing by adding small flowers and other decorative touches. This serves as an easy alternative to passed appetizers during your cocktail hour.
Host a Night to Remember With Your Unconventional Wedding
Don’t feel like you have to conform with your wedding day. Guests love weddings that reflect the bride and groom’s unique personality and ideas. Try these ideas out at your celebration to spice things up.
Want to try these ideas for your own wedding celebration? We’d love to host you at the Olde House. Book now
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