Non-Traditional Wedding Ideas
Not all of us look to our wedding day and think of a white dress, a church, a romantic reception and the classic speeches. When planning your big day you want to ensure that it is a correct representation of who you and your partner are – sometimes the traditional is a little too stiff for some couples. There are a few different ways you can say your vows that allows you and your partner to express your love whilst still expressing your style.
Backyard wedding
Your ceremony doesn’t always need to be under the gaze of God in a church or chapel. The humble backyard wedding is an ideal choice for people who are looking for a relaxing day with a small group of friends and family. Just because you get married in your backyard doesn’t mean you can’t have an elegant wedding either. Some fairy lights, strategically placed flowers and a beautiful wedding arch can easily turn your backyard into a stunning outdoor setting.
The best thing about a backyard wedding is the party can start immediately! If you and your partner are easy going then a BBQ with some drinks and good music might be all you need for your reception. Not only is this a great option for those who want to break tradition but it also offers you an affordable, low key wedding.
Hand fasting ceremonies
Perhaps you and your partner are completely non-religious and are not particularly fond of the traditional exchanging of rings and vows. The neo-pagan ritual of hand fasting is becoming a unique alternative to the standard Christian ceremony. As the name suggests this ritual usually involves you and your partner being bound together with ribbon or a particular rope to symbolise your union. You can combine this ritual within standard ceremony or do away with all tradition all together and hire a pagan celebrant to preside over your day.
Forget about “–maids” and “–men”
Rather than the bride having her bridesmaids and the groom his groomsmen, why not mix and match genders according to friendships? A bride may have a close brother she wishes to have in her party or a best male friend that could replace the maid of honour. The same goes for the groom; perhaps he would prefer his sister be his best man! There are many ways to change up your ceremony and break with tradition, and mixing up the party is one of the easiest and often most surprising for the guests.