Your wedding day is one of the most deeply intimate days of your life. Loved ones travel from near and far to witness your union, and the beautiful promise you and your partner will make to each other. Personalization is the new standard for wedding day celebrations. According to The Knot Real Weddings study, the majority of couples create at least one DIY item for their celebration, and 70% of couples have at least one signature wedding element that added personal touches to the ceremony. We asked celebrity stylist Micaela Erlanger about some of her favorite wedding personalization tips, and how couples can incorporate sentimental details into their special day.
A Hidden Message
When planning a wedding, every couple wants to create a memorable experience for their guests. At the end of the day, your special moment is meant to celebrate you and your significant other, so it’s important to weave in unique elements into your ceremony. “I love the idea of engraving your band with a personal note,” Erlanger said. “Something special that’s meant for only the two of you to know about.” Consider customizing your platinum wedding band with a hidden stone on the inside of the band, or adding something meaningful to another part of your look. “Don’t forget, if you don’t want to wear something outright you can sew it to the inside of your gown or to your bouquet,” said Erlanger.
Centerpieces
Decorations are a gorgeous way to truly immerse your guests in your captivating love story. While elaborate flower arrangements can serve as a stunning decoration, they wilt quickly and won’t last beyond the big day. Many couples choose to create centerpieces and other decorations themselves. Use your centerpieces as an opportunity to tell your story by adding personal elements to table numbers, or even making the centerpieces yourself. Add childhood photos that correspond with the table numbers, or give each table a special name that relates to your relationship.
Wear a Family Heirloom
Incorporating something old or something borrowed into your wedding day ensemble is a sentimental way to honor the past while looking forward to your future together. Heirloom pieces hold special significance, as they are unique to you and your family. “Platinum pieces are especially beautiful and versatile, because they shine and are durable,” Erlanger said. “Consider wearing jewelry that holds meaning. I love the idea of a special brooch worn in the hair on a comb or barrette, or a pair of beautiful earrings.” Antique or vintage diamonds and other gemstones can be set in platinum to ensure they appear as brilliant as the day they were when they were first received.
Photobooths, Filters and Hashtags
In the age of social media, it’s easier than ever to share photos and special moments with the world. Give your guests a chance to take photos home with them instantly with a photobooth station, or consider incorporating the amazing keepsakes into your guestbook. Set up a table with a blank guest book and supplies, and prompt guests to add their photos to the guest book and write messages that correspond with their photo. Designing your own Snapchat filter for the occasion allows guests to share their experience throughout the day. Wedding hashtags are also an increasingly popular way to gather photos from your guests and view them in one place on Facebook and Instagram. Many couples share their wedding hashtag with guests on social media, on their wedding websites, save-the-date cards, and even in the program.
Signature Cocktails
From the ceremony to the cocktail hour, there are truly endless ways to personalize the big day. Signature cocktails have quickly become a crowd-pleasing element of wedding receptions. Give your signature cocktails a clever name, and integrate your favorite ingredients and seasonal flavors to bring your drinks to life. Accompany the cocktails with custom signs that feature the name of the cocktail, ingredients, and even fun artwork.
Have Fun with your Shoes
The wedding dress reveal is always an exciting part of the ceremony, and every bride deserves to feel as unique and beautiful as possible —from head to toe. The wedding shoes can be bold, classic, colorful or even add “something blue” to the look. “Creating your look is already so personal, and so I believe it’s all in the details,” Erlanger said. “Have fun with your accessories — especially footwear! Since people are less likely to see under your big ball gown you can really have fun!” If you prefer comfort over heels, wear a pair of sneakers or sandals that show off your personality.
Bridesmaid and Groomsmen Gifts
The bridesmaids and groomsmen are also an important aspect of the ceremony. Express your gratitude for their role in your big day with a special gift that they can use and cherish long after the wedding day. “I love the idea of a really beautiful jewelry catchall — a place for them to put their jewelry and special pieces,” said Erlanger. Customize gifts like a catchall tray, flask, wine glass and more with a date or special message as a lasting memento.
Every love story is unique, and deserves to be honored with a ceremony and reception that truly captures the love you have for one another. Share the moments and details that made your wedding day special with us on Facebook and Instagram.
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