11 Unique Ideas for your Intimate, Non-Traditional BC Wedding
I get it — the traditional weddings we see plastered all over the internet aren’t for everyone. It’s nice to add in some of your own non-traditions to your wedding day. That’s why I’ve made this list of 11 unique ideas, so you can make your day more about YOU.
Spending the night before together
Sleeping separately is one of my favourite traditions for my couples to throw out the window. Imagine waking up on the morning of your wedding day to the love of your life, giggling and hyping each other up for the day ahead. I don’t know about you, but waking up to my husband is the best thing ever. Why wouldn’t you want that on one of the best days of your life?!
Getting ready together
I love how intimate and special it is when couples spend the morning of their wedding together. You can always get ready together without putting on your wedding attire, so you still have that moment of seeing each other fully done up for the first time.
Doing a First Look
While I totally understand wanting to see your partner for the first time when you’re at either end of the aisle, first looks are one of my favourite parts of any wedding day. It’s the perfect time to take a moment for the two of you and take each other in privately.
Need more help deciding if a first look is for you? Check out this blog —
Walking each other down the aisle
Maybe you don’t have someone you want to walk you down the aisle. Maybe you’ve only invited your chosen family. Or maybe you just know you want to do things differently. There’s no right or wrong when it comes to walking down the aisle — or any part of your wedding day for that matter. Make it special and unique and walk together instead!
Intimate dinner at a restaurant or café
Imagine having your reception at a cool brewery, restaurant, or café, then hitting the town with all your favourite people. If you’re having an intimate wedding, this is such a unique (and crazy affordable) reception option!
Non-traditional attire
Skip the expensive wedding dress(es) and/or suit(s), save a bit of money, and opt for a more unique look — there’s so many options for dresses online that are incredibly affordable (such as Lulus or Azazie) and the options for suit alternatives are endless! I love to use Pinterest for all my wedding inspo.
Have a friend or family member perform the ceremony
This is something I’m seeing more and more with my couples. They sign the papers and get “officially married” a day or two before their wedding day, then have a close friend or family member officiate the wedding ceremony. It’s such a great way to make your ceremony so much more personal and full of love.
Choosing a location that’s meaningful to you — whether that’s for engagement photos, wedding day portraits, or for your ceremony/reception
This is one of the best ways to make your wedding photos more meaningful. One of my couples had met in high school when they were cliff-jumping at Rattlesnake Point, so we went back there for their engagement photos. If there’s a spot that’s near and dear to your love story, let’s make it even more special and take your engagement or wedding portraits there!
A night before or morning-of couples photo session
Documenting the last few hours of being engaged and remembering the night-before or morning-of your wedding day would be so special. This can be added onto any wedding package!
Private vows/letters
I love when couples either read or write special love letters to each other. Write a letter to each other to read before you get ready, or read your vows to one another during your first look before the ceremony, whatever it may be I am HERE FOR IT!
My husband and I read our vows to each other when we had our first look, and I would do that over and over again. Hearing them for the first time when it’s just the two of you is so dang special, and getting the chance to hear them twice took a lot of pressure off during the ceremony.
Long table, family-style meal
Another great option for those small, intimate weddings. Gather your closest friends and family around a big table and have a family-style meal. Whether it’s an Italian feast, a pizza party, or whatever else your heart desires, I’d love to share it with you two!
