I think we can all agree the “rulebook” to weddings that generations past have carefully held to has been thrown out the window, and personally..I say good riddance!  Couples spend their entire engagement planning and creating new ways to make their day different from any other wedding they’ve attended.  We’re all searching for some individuality in decor, something to make people remember the amazing time they had, anything to set us apart!  This is a post of some of my most favorite details done to perfection, surprises worth applauding, and moments that will have you wanting to hop on Pinterest and add to your secret dream wedding boards (don’t you dare deny having one!).

Unforgettable reception details and party favors

Nothing worse then seeing all your little party favors still sitting on the tables as your guests are leaving for the night right?  I’m always so excited to see details and favors that guests will be sure not to forget at the end of the night!  Check out the 200 completely unique ceramic cups that Stephanie and Nick made for their guests!  And two years later I’m still obsessed with the handmade piñatas at each table.

Alternative Guest Books

Often times I see client’s guests books filled with images from their engagement session along with signatures from their family and friends, and I love it!  Other times though, my clients just don’t see that fitting into their newlywed nest and they do something a bit different.  Wedding guitar anyone?

Ceremony Setup

Seriously though, how amazing are these ceremony inspirations?!  Make those “I Do” photos some of your favorites!  Check out this stained glass window that came from the grooms old family property.  We can’t all be that lucky but we can try!

Signage

Lets face it..its fairly pointless but goodness its cute!  And such a great way to bring personal style to any venue!   

Family First Look

Choosing to have your groom see you before the ceremony or as your walking down the aisle is a very personal decision to be made.  But I’m telling you, a first look with your dad, or your wedding party is ALWAYS a good idea.

Late Night Snacks

This has to be the best idea to ever hit weddings in my opinion!  Grilled cheese, french fries, cookies and milk, doughnuts, ice cream sandwiches, your guests will die!

But what if people get bored?  

So often I hear brides concerned that their guests aren’t having fun during cocktail hour.  Here are a few cute little additions to consider!

Little Moments, big surprises

Quick story of Kristine and Nick.  Kristine has an AMAZING voice, but she’s not one to let people hear her.  So when the officiant hands her groom a note letting him know the song he’s listening to as his bride walks towards him, was recorded by none other then his future WIFE he was done for, tears everywhere.  One of my all time favorite surprise moments.

Or Jared had the boat from their first date delivered to their wedding. Yes, these guys do exist outside of movies.

And Tasia and Luke, who surprised their guests with the BEST first dance of all first dances!!  It was like a little look into their love story.

Wedding Party Gifting

Hats off to Mark who had personalized bobble heads made of each of his groomsmen.  Or Nick who sewed each of his buddies a tie…