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How to Spice Up a Traditional Wedding

Traditional doesn’t mean boring. While planning your traditional wedding, look for subtle ways to put your own stamp of individuality on the celebration. Traditional weddings in the United States have several main hallmarks, including a white dress, wedding cake, bridal procession, attendants, first dance, veil and bouquet. Whether your wedding takes place on a beach or in a cathedral, these elements are steeped in tradition.

Want to plan a wedding your guests will remember? Use the elements of a traditional wedding as a foundation to create a ceremony and reception that express your personal style. Early in the planning process, take time to write down some of your favorite things. These can include hobbies, movies, music or even colors. As you create your list, look for inspiration. If nothing strikes you immediately, put your list away for a few days and then come back to it.

If you’re not comfortable tweaking your traditional wedding and reception, consider having a unique bachelorette party to put a personal spin on your celebration. Skip the typical night on the town and get together with your girlfriends for a day at a spa, a fun cupcake party or an afternoon at a theme park. (Just remember to wear sunscreen.)

Many brides choose to stick with a very traditional wedding ceremony. Even if you follow a strict set of ceremonial traditions, you can instill some of your personality. Work with your officiant to choose readings and music that really speak to you on a personal level. Write vows with your spouse or add a few personal statements to the vows suggested by your officiant or faith. Honor deceased loved ones by saying a prayer or lighting a candle for those who could not be with you on your special day.

Your wedding reception gives you the most room for flexibility. The music and food can go a long way toward creating a unique atmosphere. Are you really into 1980’s movies? Try an 80’s-themed reception. Bring some inexpensive props from the party store and hand them out to guests once the dance floor fills up. Do you and your fiancé love sushi? Have a Japanese restaurant cater the reception. Decorate tables and place settings with bamboo and Asian-inspired décor.

Color can also create a big statement. If you love bold colors, try adding a colored sash to your white wedding gown or carry a bouquet of bright tropical flowers. Use your bridesmaids’ dresses as a way to express the colors you love. Remember, unique bridesmaids dresses add a fun element to weddings without interfering with conventional wedding traditions. Get together with your girlfriends and find fashion statements that express who you are.

The time of year you celebrate can also have a big impact on the tone of your wedding. Traditional weddings often take place in the summer, but it’s perfectly acceptable to have a winter, spring or fall wedding. Use the season as a source of inspiration for your color palette.

While your wedding day is all about celebrating the union you have with your fiancé, it’s also a day where you get to call most of the shots. Embrace the opportunity to really be you as you begin a new life with your spouse.