150+ Ways to Make Your Wedding Unforgettable

"Transformer" Dress

Believe it or not, the photos above feature the same exact dress! "Transformer" wedding gowns allow you to showcase different looks for the ceremony and reception (without having to purchase a second gown). Look for a style with a detachable skirt or chic overlay.

Search for your dream wedding gown!

Photo by Alan Melconian/Deja Vu Studios via Bridal Reflections

Mom's Dress: Revisited

Mom's wedding gown has sentimental value, but most brides prefer to wear a dress that reflects their own personal style (and doesn't have shoulder pads from the '80s!). The perfect compromise: This bride had a seamstress cut out the beaded flowers from her mother's dress, and she applied them to the bottom of her own veil.

Read about a bride who wore a 127-year-old wedding dress.

Photo Credit: Krista Mason Photography

Mom's Dress: Revisited

Photo Credit: Krista Mason Photography

Mom's Dress: Revisited

Or, wrap the bouquet handle in the same fabric as your mother's gown. This bride chose to honor her grandmother by incorporating her dress fabric and a pendant that she gave to her for the wedding day.

Photo Credit: Desi Baytan Photography

Hidden Message Close to Your Heart

Sew a secret message onto the underside of your gown—only you'll know it's there, but it will add a sentimental touch to your bridal ensemble. This bride cut fabric from three generations of family members' clothing into the shape of hearts. They were sewn into her dress so that she could "carry their hearts" with her.

Check out more ways to honor lost loved ones.

Wedding Planner: Jen Stiebel/SoCo Events

Hidden Message Close to Your Heart

Photo Credit: MK Loeffler Photography

An Ode to Their Profession

Personalize your photos, song list, or even the way that you're introduced into your reception with a nod to you or your husband's profession! Wear each other's firefighter jacket and hat, military beret or doctor's lab coat. Whether you choose just one element—a scientist could serve cocktails in miniature beakers or name them after chemical compounds—or go for a full-out theme, it will make your wedding that much more meaningful to you as a couple. 

Photo Credit: Kiss the Groom

An Ode to Their Profession

This back-to-school wedding gets an A+ for its execution and attention to detail.

Photo Credit: Tim Tab Studios

Did You See the Back of That Dress?

When it comes to real weddings submissions, we're suffering from a major case of whiplash—who could blame us with a back this divine? Whether the posterior of your dress is plunging, embellished, or in a keyhole shape, there's no better way to shock and awe guests as you walk down the aisle.

Check out more of our favorite dramatic dress backs here.

Photo by: Pat Dy Photography/Dress by: Veluz Reyes

Did You See the Back of That Dress?

Photo Credit: Paul Barnett

Did You See The Back Of That Dress?

Dress by Pnina Tornai. Browse more gorgeous styles from Pnina Tornai here!

Did You See The Back Of That Dress?

Dress by Stella York. Browse more gorgeous styles from Stella York here!

Photo Within a Photo

No wedding album would be complete without a shot of your gown in all its glory before you slip it on. It's resplendent as is—the light streaming through the windows casting a magical glow—but we've noticed more brides are adding mementos in the background. Add a blink-and-you'll-miss-it family photo, childhood keepsake, or other fun surprise.

Check out another adorable photo-within-a-photo here.

Photo Credit: Zenobia Studios

Photo Within a Photo

Photo Credit: Vanessa Joy Photography

When in Doubt, Say It With Your Shoes

In this Up-themed wedding, the couple wrote their names on the bottom of each other's shoes, in a nod to their other favorite Disney film, Toy Story. Take a cue from Woody and pals by scrawling a love letter for your sole mate.

Photo Credit: Randi Marie Photography

When in Doubt, Say It With Your Shoes

Squashing those "last chance to run!" jokes, once and for all. You're welcome.

More Showstopping Accessories

Your wedding is the one day in your life that you can wear a veil—we say go for it! From dramatic mantillas to quirky-vintage birdcages, it pulls together your whole look.

Find the perfect veil for your personality.

Photo Credit: K&K Photography

More Showstopping Accessories

This bride's necklace stole the show. If your gown is on the simpler side, style it with a dazzling crystal belt, chandelier earrings, or a thick cuff to add visual interest. (Dainty jewelry is just as lovely, but we're talking "unforgettable" here.)

Find accessories that fit your venue.

Photo Credit: Cory Ryan Photography

More Showstopping Accessories

Don't forget your groom's accessories! This Southern gent's personality shines through his patterned bow tie. Black-white tuxedo shoes and personalized cuff links would also be memorable—choose just one. You don't want to cross over into kooky territory.

Photo Credit: Alisha Crossley Photography

Creative Jewelry Shot

After springing for shiny new wedding bands, you'll bet they'll be part of your wedding footage. Photographers are coming up with crazy-inventive places to put your rings, including on your iPhone, a miniature picket fence (we kid you not), a Christmas tree, and more.

Photo Credit: Kessler Photography

Creative Jewelry Shot

Dating memorabilia—like handwritten notes, old photos, and other fun trinkets from when you first started dating—serve as a sweet backdrop for your new rings.

Photo Credit: Two One Photography

Creative Jewelry Shot

This couple immortalized their first dance song, "Wonderwall" by Oasis, with sheet music.

Photo Credit: Lily Stein for Jim Kennedy Photography

"In Dedication Of" Bouquet

Embroider your bridesmaid's initials on their bouquet ribbon to personalize their blooms. You can even select a special quote or Bible verse that is a reflection of your friendship, like this bride did.

Photography by Walters & Walters / Wedding planner: Ivy Robinson Weddings & Events

Highly-Anticipated First Look

Make an exciting moment even more emotionally-charged by blindfolding your groom before he catches a first glimpse of his beautiful bride. Don't want to break tradition? Hold hands with your backs turned, like this couple did.

Photo Credit: Ashfall Mixed Media

Highly-Anticipated First Look

Photo Credit: Bethany Ann Photography

Highly-Anticipated First Look

Debating whether to see each other before the ceremony? These sweet photos might convince you!

Photo Credit: Alively Photography

Announce the News in an Unexpected Way

Hosting a wedding weekend with scheduled activities for guests? Bring attractions to life with custom illustrations, so they know what they're in for (and have something to look forward to!). You can even choose to highlight your honeymoon destination on the map, like this couple did.

Photo Credit: Tonya Malay Photography

Announce the News in an Unexpected Way

If some of your fondest memories involve the silver screen and a bucket of popcorn, give guests a teaser with a funny movie poster.

Photo Credit: Kenneth Light Studios

Announce the News in an Unexpected Way

Use craft letters or a sign to add an extra dimension to your engagement photos. The photos serve a multitude of purpose: You can display them at your bridal shower, turn them into a guest book, or use them for your save-the-date.

Photo Credit: Jana Williams

Surprise Your Groom

Make your wedding day even more romantic by giving your groom a surprise he'll never forget. May we suggest boudoir photos? Nothing too racy—just enough to make him blush. Love letters or a small gift will always do the trick. Anything that shows how over-the-moon you are to be marrying the love of your life.

Photo Credit: Randi Marie Photography

Surprise Your Groom

Photo Credit: Perry Vaile Photography

Ultra-Stylish Bridal Party

If you want your bridesmaids to wear the same dress, add a playful feel with look-at-me-accesories, like these hot pink pumps.

Photo Credit: Archetype Studio Inc.

Ultra-Stylish Bridal Party

If you're going the mismatched route, let bridesmaids choose from two hues in the same color palette for a look that's still cohesive, like these gorgeous ladies. Check out more hot trends for bridesmaids.

Photo Credit: KT Merry

Make Wedding Prep a Party

Getting married doesn't mean you can't still enjoy the silly, childhood pleasures in life. Chief among them: Jumping on the bed with your best friend.

Photo Credit: Brad Ross Photography

Make Wedding Prep a Party

Give a short and sweet toast to your support group, confidantes, and friends throughout the years. "My heart is as full as my glass, when I drink to you, old friend." Cheers!

Photo Credit: Chris Jorian Fine Photography

Make Wedding Prep a Party

Photo Credit: Studio Eleven Photography

Make Wedding Prep a Party

Photo Credit: Pickerill Creative

Gifts They'll Actually Use

They patiently listened while you unburndened yourself of wedding stress. Without them by your side, the feeling of joy on your wedding day wouldn't nearly be so great. Repay them in kind with a present that expresses your gratitude. It doesn't have to be pricey jewelry or crystal trinkets you can't afford—just something with thought behind it, like these moniker flasks.

Photo Credit: J. Wiley Photography

Embrace Bridal Party Hijinks

Classic bridal party portraits are necessary, but after what feels like hours of standing perfectly composed, smiling just enough, we think you deserve some fun. Throw in a few creative wild cards to add variety to your photo album.

Photo Credit: Maria Vicenio Photography

Embrace Bridal Party Hijinks

Photo Credit: Jessica Svoboda Photography

Embrace Bridal Party Hijinks

Photo Credit: K&K Photography

Embrace Bridal Party Hijinks

Get 30 more fun ideas for bridal party photos here!

Photo Credit: Meg Courtney Photography

Prepare for the Unexpected

Lost? Confused? Can't find your pants? Don't even think about calling you-know-who.

Photo Credit: Brooke Courtney Photography

Prepare for the Unexpected

Don't repeat yourself 20 times about what time the bridal party should be ready to take photos. Instead, hand out one of these sweet cards. That way, a bridesmaid who has her own definition of time (there's always one...) will get the hint!

Photo Credit: Bartlett Pair Photography

Get Little Ones in On the Fun

Make the cutest members of your bridal party feel special, too! A princess-worthy handbag or activity kit can help keep them occupied and quell their nerves before their walk down the aisle.

If you have a flower girl or niece you adore, snap a priceless photo of them "wearing" your wedding gown on the morning of your big day. Years from now, at her wedding, you could gift it to her in a beautiful frame!

Photo Credit: From the Treetop Photography

Get Little Ones in On the Fun

"Here Comes the Bride" signs are still going strong! Add a personalized touch with a funny message ("Wait 'til you see her") or secret catchphrase you and your groom use ("Love you to the moon and back").

Photo Credit: Jason Crader

Get Little Ones in On the Fun

Paging security—this ring bearer's safety deposit box contains precious cargo.

Photo Credit: Kim Le Photography

Aisle Style

An aisle runner or flowers arranged in an intricate pattern turns a standard ceremony space into a spectacular one. Plus, they're more budget-friendly than you'd think, so you don't need much else (if at all) in terms of decor.

Photo Credit: Jaxon Wedding Photography

Aisle Style

Hosting a nighttime ceremony? This light-projected patterned floor is ultra-romantic.

Photo Credit: Rhee Bevere

Aisle Style

The road from just-met to husband-and-wife is filled with milestones; call out some of your favorites with a DIY aisle displaying dates and photos from the past. Get more stunning ceremony décor ideas here.

Photo Credit: The Other Sister Photography via Oh Lovely Day

Aisle Style

A fluorescent chandelier and vivid pink flowers are a fresh take on ceremony décor.

Photo Credit: Lily Stein for Jim Kennedy Photographers

Aisle Style

This basic chuppah exudes rustic charm. The suspended floral vases are a sweet touch!

Photo Credit: Ron Storer

Aisle Style

Photo Credit: K&K Photography

A Token of Appreciation

This couple met on an airplane and the groom proposed to the bride before skydiving out of one! In a nod to their favorite form of transportation, they made paper airplanes out of the programs.

Photography by: Heather Kincaid; Wedding planner: Gather Events and Occasions

A Token of Appreciation

Photography by: Heather Kincaid; Wedding planner: Gather Events and Occasions

A Token of Appreciation

Custom silhouettes or illustrations of the bridal party is becoming a hot motif for ceremony programs. Include the relationship of each bridal party attendant to you (e.g. best friend, coworker) along with any fun facts (e.g. did you know Jenna and Alison met in a yoga class?).

Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography

A Token of Appreciation

This double-duty program is a sweet choice for summertime brides.

Photo Credit: Keepsake Memories Photography

A Token of Appreciation

Photo Credit: Anne-Marie Bouchard

Wipe Away Tears of Joy

Weddings are rife with emotion; there's bound to be a few sniffles and mascara streaks. Prepare guests for a tearjerking-good time with miniature tissue boxes displayed throughout the church or a tissue enclosed in your ceremony program.

Photo Credit: Brookelyn Photography

Stop for a Kiss

Take the time to stop for one final display of affection with Mom and Dad. Just remind them that the officiant is waiting if they refuse to let go.

Photo Credit: Jeremy Beasley

Make Your Big Debut

Picture this: Your processional starts playing and it's time to approach your handsome groom. The doors swing open, and your guests gasp when they see how beautiful you look. No door? No problem: Set up a temporary door frame display to get the same effect in sunshine.

Photo Credit: Wren Photography

Make Your Big Debut

Photo Credit: Jacilyn M. Photography

Make Your Big Debut

Make Your Big Debut

We're envious of anyone who owns a horse and can ride it down the aisle. Straight out of a fairytale!

Photo Credit: Amber Davis Photography

Incorporate a Ceremony Tradition or Invent Your Own

Add cultural flair to your wedding ceremony. This couple followed the sacred Greek wedding rite of wearing "stefana" or crowns that are tied together. They represent the bond between the bride and groom. The priest places the crowns on the bride and groom's heads and the best man (or "koumbaro") exchanges the crowns three times. Learn about more wedding traditions from around the world.

Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography

Incorporate a Ceremony Tradition or Invent Your Own

Photo Credit: K&K Photography

Incorporate a Ceremony Tradition or Invent Your Own

Having a non-denominational ceremony? A sand ritual is a symbol of two families joining together as one on the wedding day. Get more ideas for planning an unforgettable ceremony, here.

Photo Credit: Rhee Bevere

Unique Ceremony Celebrations

These diehard Broncos fans added a fun twist to "I now pronounce you husband and wife..." by having the priest hold up a cheeky sign.

Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography

Unique Ceremony Celebrations

Colorful pom-poms were tossed as the newlyweds exit down the aisle. 

Photo Credit: Krista Mason Photography

Unique Ceremony Celebrations

Photo Credit: Krista Mason Photography

Unique Ceremony Celebrations

Nothing against rose petals, but how much fun do they look like they're having shooting confetti into the air?

Photo Credit: Ron Storer Photography

Unique Ceremony Celebrations

In lieu of having a receiving line or rice toss, this couple took a group photo with all of their guests, in which each person held a colorful balloon. Browse more photos from their fun Up-themed wedding in Walt Disney World.

Photo Credit: Ty Boyce of Disney Fine Art Photography and Video

Arrive in Style

We'll always have a special place in our hearts for limos, but for some couples, non-alternative options like trolleys, a horse-drawn carriage, or even a ski lift are more their speed. Your transportation should reflect the overall theme of your event. If you're considering an unusual vehicle for your arrival or departure, keep your dress style in mind: Pedaling a bicycle built for two in a ball gown might not be physically possible!

Photo Credit: Two One Photography

Arrive in Style

For as long as she can remember, bride Johsi's family has only ever owned Land Rovers. After her father passed, she held on to his last car. In honor of him, she featured a Land Rover as a prop in the pre-dinner drinks picnic area at her wedding.

Photography by The Simple Things Studio; Wedding planner: Victoria Cameron/Little White Wedding Co.

Arrive in Style

Photo Credit: Jacilyn M.

Arrive in Style

Photo Credit: J. Wiley

Arrive in Style

Get more wedding transportation ideas here!

Photo Credit: Nuno Palha

Make Wedding Photos More Fun

You already know the traditional must-have shots. Ask your photographer to mix it up! Some ideas we love: They can shoot your veil enveloping you and your groom, include fun props (like your marriage license) and capitalize on gorgeous backdrops (e.g. your silhouettes illuminated by sunset). Browse Photo of the Day for tons of inspiration.

Photo Credit: Sarah Kate Photography

Make Wedding Photos More Fun

Photo Credit: Lamb and Lark

Make Wedding Photos More Fun

Check out 50 must-have photos with your groom.

Photo Credit: {sugarlens}

Let There Be Light

Not sure whether to spring for LED lighting? It's worth the investment—incorporate just one color or switch between hues throughout the reception to evoke different moods. There's also tons of DIY lighting options you can explore, including renting chandeliers, hanging light-up lanterns, or assembling candles (more is more in this case).

Photo Credit: Shira Weinberger Photography

Let There Be Light

A starry night sky is projected onto the walls for a magical effect.

Photo Credit: A Magic Moment

Dance Floor Debut

When your DJ or band announces your names and guests rise to their feet, set the tone with a fun anthem, like this couple did (they chose "Party Rock Anthem" by LMFAO). Show off your best dance moves (and sense of humor) with hilarious props. Find tons of song recommendations for your wedding here.

Photo Credit: Disney Fine Art Photography and Video

Dance Floor Debut

Photo Credit: Meagan Ramirez/The Collective Photographers

Dance Floor Debut

Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography

Dance Floor Debut

Photo Credit: Joshua McCoy Photography

Kick Off Your Shoes

Encourage guests to check their Choos for a pair of flip flops to hit the dance floor!

Wedding Planner: Easton Events

Clever Escort Cards

Guide guests to their seat with escort cards that reflect your wedding theme, season, or story as a couple. For example, this bride loved rustic-elegant details, so her wedding planner hung her seating cards around a large, burnt-out tree. Inside the seating card was a little story the bride wrote about love, which was a nod to her profession as a writer.

Photo by: Halberg Photographers / Event design: Kelly Oshiro Design

Clever Escort Cards

Photo by: Halberg Photographers / Event design: Kelly Oshiro Design

Clever Escort Cards

One of our all-time favorite escort card displays.

Photo by Brett Matthews Photography/Florals by: Tantawan Bloom

Clever Escort Card

A visual escort display brings a playful wedding to life.

Display designed by Happy Menocal; Wedding planner: Patricia Lyons/Easton Events

Clever Escort Cards

At this wedding planned by David Tutera, butterfly die-cutes cards took flight atop a "field" of lavender.

Photo Credit: David Tutera

Clever Escort Cards

If you're having a super-sized group of guests, display a large scroll or sign that outlines their seating arrangements, rather than individual cards (which may take longer for them to find). At this wedding, the couple named each table after a lovely pairing, like spaghetti and meatballs.

Photo Credit: J. Wiley

Clever Escort Cards

Photo Credit: J. Wiley

Clever Escort Cards

Kirby and Steve wanted to do something a little unexpected for their escort plan, so custom stationery items were created to accompany their signature cocktails.

Photography by:Jeremy Beasley; Wedding planner:Little White Wedding Co.

Double-Duty Table Numbers

Give your guests something to talk about with double-duty table numbers! This one incorporated the couple's favorite snack to hold everyone over until the main course.

Alixann Loosle Photography; Wedding planner: Ashley Lloyd/Attention 2 Detail Events

Double-Duty Table Numbers

A popular choice with jetsetters, travel-themed numbers reveal some of your favorite destinations.

Photo Credit: Allen Taylor Photography

Double-Duty Table Numbers

Name each table number after a meaningful year with a photo featuring you at that age.

Photo Credit: Sun-Dance Photography

Double-Duty Table Numbers

Photo Credit: ERIC CRAIG STUDIOS

Tell a Fun Fact

Reveal a little-known fact about you and your husband or wife, like how you had to be rescued when you went canoing (a true story for newly-engaged couple Jason Sudeikis and Olivia Wilde).

Photo Credit: Etsy

Tell a Fun Fact

Photo Credit: Emily Steffen Photography/Captured Studios

Tell a Fun Fact

Photo Credit: Kellie Kano

Eye-Catching Centerpieces

Towering centerpieces, perfect for a high-ceilinged space, add drama and elegance to tables. This centerpiece features ivory roses, white hydrangeas, and white and pale-pink orchids, with cymbidium orchids on satin ribbons. Select in-season blooms to save. Browse 40 more stunning tall centerpieces here.

Photo by: Remy Grecco/Created by: LA Premiere/

Eye-Catching Centerpieces

Create an intimate environment with low clusters of lush blooms in a variety of interesting containers. Get 30 more ideas for low centerpieces here.

Photo by: Dana Siles/Created by: Tantawan Bloom

Containers Count, Too

Add visual interest to your tablescape with glittering candelabras, suspended tea lights, or vessels wrapped with branches to look as if they magically sprang out of the table.

Photo Credit: Rhee Bevere

Containers Count, Too

Photo Credit: Mango Studios

Containers Count, Too

Photo by: Elizabeth Messina/Created by: Lisa Vorce of Oh How Charming

Containers Count, Too

Photo Credit: Rhee Bevere

Dress Up Your Chairs

Embellish plain chairs with covers, signs, or flowers to mark your seats as the guests of honor.

Photo Credit: Plum Tree Studios

Dress Up Your Chairs

Photo Credit: Plum Tree Studios

Dress Up Your Chairs

This couple displayed their baby photos on the back of their dinner chairs.

Photo by: Katie Stoops Photography/Created by: Karson Butler Events

Don't Forget the Entrance Table

Many brides put the most thought (and biggest chunk of their décor budget) into the centerpieces, since that’s what guests will be staring at for most of the event. However, party planner Preston Bailey advises that entrances set the tone for the entire evening, so pull out all of the stops there.

Photo Credit: Rhee Bevere

Don't Forget the Entrance Table

Photo Credit: Pat Dy Photography

Don't Forget the Entrance Table

Photo by: Colin Miller/Event design by: Colin Cowie Weddings

Savor A Private Moment Alone

Many wedding coordinators will build in time for the couple to view their reception space before guests arrive. Sneak away to practice your first dance, take deep breaths before greeting loved ones and shout, "We finally did it!"

Photo by: Thisbe Grace Photography/Wedding planner: Jordan Payne Events

Savor A Private Moment Alone

Photo Credit: Kelly Stremmel Photography

Savor A Private Moment Alone

Photo Credit: K&K Photography

Savor A Private Moment Alone

We vote for a sweetheart table over a head table. They're incredibly romantic; you'll have the chance to hold hands with your groom and spend a few precious minutes alone in between all of the necessary mingling.

Photo Credit: Duke Photography

An Interactive "Guest Book"

Instead of settling for a regular spiral-bound notebook, this is a place where you can really use your imagination and get creative, even if you're having a more formal wedding. This couple asked loved ones to sign this wooden table with their wishes and remarks. After the wedding, they displayed it in their home, as a constant reminder of their big day!

Wedding Planner: Nancy Park/So Happi Together

An Interactive "Guest Book"

Wedding Planner: Nancy Park/So Happi Together

An Interactive "Guest Book"

Guests were instructed to choose a word that described the bride and groom in a dictionary, and sign their signature next to it. Their wedding planner, Heather Lowenthal from Posh Parties, provided markers and stamps, which made for an engaging experience.

Photo by: Nancy Cohn Photography; Wedding planner: Heather Lowenthal/ Posh Parties

An Interactive "Guest Book"

As a nod to this groom’s love of baseball, guests were asked to “autograph” baseballs.  The balls now sit in a display case next to the likes of Ted Williams and Yoggi Berra.

Wedding planner: Jen Stiebel/SoCo Events

An Interactive "Guest Book"

At this wedding, guests signed quilt squares which were later used to create a one-of-a-kind heirloom.

Photo Credit: J. Wiley

Say My Name

This couple took the custom monogram from their stationery and had it projected onto a seamless white dance floor. It was a stunning focal point at the reception!

Photo by: Jonas Peterson; Wedding planner: Gianna SanFilippo/Chic Celebrations

Say My Name

Another way to brand your wedding with your name is to use monograms for frosted plastic cups (containing your signature cocktail), ice luge, stir sticks, picks for appetizers and tags to hang from rearview mirrors (when guests receive their car from the valet).

Photo by: Paul Johnson Photography; Monogram designed by: Gourmet Invitations

Say My Name

A glowing neon sign is a chic city take on the classic monogram.

Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography

Crowd-Pleasing Entertainment

A marching band is an amazing way to get guests up on their feet, clapping to the beat!

Photo Credit: William Innes Photography

Crowd-Pleasing Entertainment

The classic board game Jenga keeps popping up in our real weddings submissions lately!

Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography

Crowd-Pleasing Entertainment

Photo Credit: Ron Storer

Crowd-Pleasing Entertainment

This wedding was all about fun! Guests were given chips as favors and they played all night on black jack and crap tables. 

Photo by: Renai Photography; Wedding planner: Karine France-Matsumoto/Seasons of Life Events

Crowd-Pleasing Entertainment

You or a tech-savvy friend can compile your favorite home footage throughout the years and weave it into a cohesive (read: short) clip about your love story.

Photo Credit: A Magic Moment

Crowd-Pleasing Entertainment

Hire a silhouette artist to handcraft silhouettes of your guests. Create two at a time so that they can take one home and leave one for you. Ask them to add a little note, just for fun!

Photo by Amelia Lyon Photography; Wedding Planner: Nancy Park/So Happi Together

Crowd-Pleasing Entertainment

A beloved college mascot made a surprise appearance at this bride's wedding.

Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography

Crowd-Pleasing Entertainment

When all else fails, you can never go wrong with fireworks.

Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography

Collect Guests' Snapshots

Are you and your groom as obsessed with Instagram as we are? Follow BG! Then, display a sign at your reception with a specific hashtag guests can use to track photos from your wedding. #awesome

Photo Credit: Hugh Forte

Animal Wedding Crashers

Is there anything more adorable than a four-legged friend at a wedding? Case in point: The photo above. Your pet is a member of the family, and there's lots of different ways to include them in your big day, such as bringing them to your engagement shoot or donating favors to the ASPCA foundation in honor of your beloved pooch. Get more pet-friendly wedding ideas here.

Photo Credit: Jose Villa

Animal Wedding Crashers

Photo Credit: K&K Photography

Animal Wedding Crashers

The most unique "wedding guests" award goes to these curious dolphins!

Photo Credit: Sarah Mac Photography

Animal Wedding Crashers

Photo Credit: Sarah Kate Photography

Bathroom Break

When guests make their way to the restroom, give them something to chat about with fellow patrons, like this adorable his/hers sign featuring the couple's baby photos.

Photo Credit: Luminaire Foto

Bathroom Break

Let guests know that they're welcome to freshen up using essentials you've provided—include miniature bottles of perfume, breath mints, and blotting sheets—with a display sign.

Photo Credit: Drew and Megan Photography

Give Thanks

It's important to express gratitude to all of the people who've shared in the joy of your wedding day. We've gathered some fun ways to give thanks before, during, and after your big day.

Photo by: Tikko Weddings/Planned by: White Orchid Productions

Give Thanks

Mr. and Mrs. Heinz gave out edible favors that reflected their iconic surname.

Photo Credit: Hoffer Photography

Give Thanks

Photo Credit: Emma Case Photography via A Practical Wedding

An Anniversary Time Capsule

Have friends and family members write letters to you—write one for your groom, and vice versa—which are sealed into a box. Open it on your one-year anniversary and read the notes aloud (ideally with a glass of bubbly in hand).

Photo Credit: Summer Street Photography

An Anniversary Time Capsule

Learn why more couples are incorporating a wine box into their ceremony.

Photo Credit: Love Me Do Photography

Tell a Story Through Food

Instead of selecting your typical crab cake for cocktail hour, design a menu that tells the story of who you are as a couple, relating back to places you were born, where you met, got engaged, and now, where you're getting married. For example, if your groom popped the question in Ireland, Guinness-battered fish would be the perfect snack! With customized signage at each station to tell your story, guests will love the symbolism of each item they snack on.

Photo by: Studio EMP Photography; Wedding planners: Meghan and Katie/Intertwined Events

Tell a Story Through Food

Photo by: Studio EMP Photography; Wedding planners: Meghan and Katie/Intertwined Events

Tell a Story Through Food

This crustacean-loving couple included a helpful how-to for guests.

Photo Credit: Shoreshotz1 Photography

Tell a Story Through Food

Have your chef recreate a secret family recipe to serve to all of your guests, like Grandma's famous cannolis!

Photo by: A Picture Life Photography; Wedding planners: Meghan and Katie/Intertwined Events

Tell a Story Through Food

Include a wedding menu with flair. This couple has a sense of humor, so they made their menu a bit silly by turning it into a story, which is a fun way to tell guests all of the food that's to come.

Designed by: Heidi Jimenez/Zenadia Design

Tell a Story Through Food

Designed by: Heidi Jimenez/Zenadia Design

Tell a Story Through Food

Your beer-loving groom will love you that much more on your wedding day if you let him do this!

Photo Credit: Jacilyn M.

Tell a Story Through Food

Photo Credit: Walter Wilson Studios

Tell a Story Through Food

Photo Credit: Walter Wilson Studios

Miniature Treats

Revamp comforting classics by serving them pint-sized. Try cookies and milk, macaroni and cheese, and ice cream on a cone.

Photo Credit: Carmen Ash Photography

Miniature Treats

Photo Credit: Rhee Bevere

Miniature Treats

Photo Credit: Rhee Bevere

Miniature Treats

Photo Credit: Photo Pink NYC

Miniature Treats

Photo Credit: Ely Brothers Studios

Express Yourself Through Cake

Design your cake to reflect your interests, home state, or even favorite pop culture references. This bride was a girl scout throughout childhood and even ended up working for the Girl Scouts of America organization as an adult, so her baker decided to do a girl scout-themed confection. Different kinds of cookies were gold-dusted and used on the cake. It was so pretty and true to the couple!

Photo by: Braedon Flynn Photography; Cake by: Sweet and Saucy; Wedding planner: Gianna SanFilippo/Chic Celebrations

Express Yourself Through Cake

This bride's favorite fairytale became the motif for this amazing cake design.

Photo Credit: Eye Wander Photo

Express Yourself Through Cake

If you just can't compromise, then you'll adore this half-baked idea.

Photo Credit: Shockley's Sweet Shoppe

Express Yourself Through Cake

Photo Credit: J. Wiley

Express Yourself Through Cake

For a glamorous wedding, the bride wanted to honor her new in-laws, so she used their cake topper from the 70's.

Photography by: Onelove Photography; Event design: Kelly Oshiro Design

Express Yourself Through Cake

Photography by: Onelove Photography; Event design: Kelly Oshiro Design

Express Yourself Through Cake

The groom's favorite superhero made an appearance in this otherwise-traditional cake!

Photo Credit: Jennifer Skog

Express Yourself Through Cake

A ring of light shows off cake details that otherwise might have been missed in a darker setting.

Photo Credit: Meg Baisden Photography

Express Yourself Through Cake

A rustic dessert table is the pièce de résistance of any Venetian hour. Learn how to make your own dessert table here.

Photo Credit: Ron Storer

House of Cards

Think outside the box when it comes to storing cards and other gifts you receive at your reception. One of our favorites: A miniature-sized replica of your new home!

Photo Credit: Clegg Farm Creations on Etsy

Do Not Disturb

Veni, vidi, vici: They came, they saw, they conquered.