Getting married can produce a whirlwind of emotions. While there are plenty of details to sort out during the planning stages, you also want to make sure that you take time to think about your decisions. You might want to utilize some of the wedding traditions that are most important to you, such as rings and speeches and throwing bouquets, but you also may find it fun to create a wedding that’s unique to you.

Rethink the Reception

The reception, for example, does not have to be the same old affair. Forget about expensive venues and think about where you would prefer to be. If you love nature, maybe you would find it romantic to bring the reception outdoors. If the season is right, nothing is more magical than an event held amidst the captivating beauty of nature. Timing the start of your reception correctly can even allow you a view of a spectacular sunset before the stars come out to twinkle.

There are plenty of ways for you to arrange for an ideal outdoor reception. First, you’ll have to consider how big your invite list is going to be. Smaller crowds will provide you with more solutions with regard to space and can even offer a chance for an intimate gathering of close family and friends. A backyard with ample room, for example, can make for a delightfully personal environment to hold your reception. If you are anticipating a big turnout, on the other hand, you can consider having the affair in a converted barn or similar space. This is a choice with plenty of space to fit guests that blends together access to the outdoors with the convenience of having shelter should the weather become unpleasant.

I Have to Say I Love You in a Song

Besides the venue, you may want to think about how a wedding that’s unique to you can include little bits of yourself and your partner into the evening. If you have specific songs that make you think of one another, be sure to have the DJ or band play them throughout the reception. This is your evening, and while you want your guests to get up and dance, you also want to have moments where you can pause and appreciate the love you have for your new spouse. It is going to be easy for you to lose yourself in the chaos of the evening and in the rush of excitement that comes from taking the first steps of a journey with someone, so you’ll definitely find it is helpful to hear some beautiful songs throughout the night.

Incorporate Your Passion

Another way to personalize the experience is by customizing the tables where your guests will be seated. If you and your partner have hobbies, see if you can incorporate them into the mix. Are you or your partner a photographer? Include disposable cameras on the tables and develop the shots yourself afterwards. This will create a fun project for you to work on, and the end result will show you glimpses of your wedding from the perspectives of your closest loved ones. Whatever bits of yourselves you can work into the reception will help you to feel like your wedding is a reflection of the love that you have with your partner.

There will be plenty of traditions that you will want to incorporate into a wedding that’s uniquely you. Staying open to new ideas and looking for ways to personalize your reception can help you to get more from the overall experience. Find ways to show how deep your love for your partner is, and make the affair one that you can be proud of. In the end, this will all help you to look back and remember how magical your special night was.