Give tradition a twist with these ideas for orchestrating a wedding ceremony that's completely, uniquely you!
Location: Think outside the church or temple. Look to places you like to go to have fun, places that are meaningful to you, or locations that relate to the theme of your wedding. Want a place you can transform into anything you want? Look for an art gallery, a loft space, or maybe an industrial warehouse. Want somewhere that already has a built in concept? Try a museum or a theme restaurant.
Setup: Walk outside the lines. Talk to your fiancé, your planner, or even your officiant about ways you might switch up the setup. You may arrange the seats in a circular fashion, so your guests feel a part of your ceremony in a new way. You might decide to do a two-step down the aisle. Maybe your wedding party does their entrance to the infamous sounds of “Get Ready for This.”
Content: When not in Rome…Think about incorporating a small element from a culture or religion that is not your dominant tradition- maybe lighting sage to prepare the sacred space, as in the Native American tradition, or a nod to
Hawaiian tradition by placing fresh flower garlands, or leis, around each other’s necks as a symbol of love and respect. Whatever you choose should hold some significance to you and/or your partner, but it can also be unexpected and symbolic. And, while you may choose to have your officiant describe what you are including to guests, you may also choose to include the elements in a more subtle way—perhaps you set up an altar for a purely visual display or maybe you offer a description of a chosen ritual in your program, instead of describing it out loud.
Timing: Cucumber sandwiches, anyone? Why not have a breakfast wedding? Or high tea? Have you considered celebrating your nuptials on a Wednesday evening? In addition to creating a memorable tradition all your own, you are also likely to garner significant discounts from vendors for holding your
ceremony on less popular days and hours, while ensuring that more
vendors are likely to be available.
Whatever you do, may it fill you with joy and create for the two of you, and for your family and friends, memories to be honored and treasured for years to come.
Rev. Dawn is a tri-lingual Interfaith Minister, premarital counselor, and writer. She has conducted workshops on goal manifestation around the country and her articles have been featured in Whole Life Times, LA Yoga Magazine, Awareness Magazine, and Oracle20-20.
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