A wedding is a joyous occasion. The ceremony itself is usually a calm affair where everyone witnesses a beautiful moment take place. It is in the afters that the fun really starts though. Here the dancing begins, some cake is cut and the speeches take place. For many people, the afters is the really fun part of the wedding and they are just getting through the ceremony. It doesn’t have to be this way. If you are someone who is bored with the idea of a traditional wedding ceremony then you can spice it up. Here are a number of options.
Let’s dance
The first dance is usually at the beginning of the afters but it doesn’t have to be this way. You can incorporate the first dance as part of the wedding ceremony after the I do’s have been said. This is a great way to indicate to everyone that the fun has already begun. You may have also seen some dance approaches to walking down the aisle on the internet. An increasing number of couples no longer slowly walk down the aisle in a traditional fashion they now dance down it to their favorite music. This can be a great option if your wedding party features a lot of children as they will have a lot of fun with it. Yes, it is incredibly cheesy, some people will hate it, but if it is who you are, then embrace it.
The readings
The readings are typically pretty emotional if not a tad boring. There are two popular bible passages that everyone reads from. Instead, spice these up. Take a passage from your favorite book or movie. Children’s books tend to have some of the most beautiful passages about love and can provide a refreshing change.
The music
Similarly, everyone tends to choose the same hymns for their wedding music. Have some fun with the music. Play songs that are more upbeat and that are meaningful for you. Don’t get too bogged down by the words as it is the meaning the song has to you that counts (although try to avoid any break-up songs). A great idea here is to ask someone you know and love to sing a song. This is a beautiful way to involve more of your loved ones in the party.
A special moment
Do something that highlights the special bond you are making in a way that is unique to you. The traditional ceremony is that the bride and groom each separately light a candle. Together they then light one larger candle with their individual candles. This is a beautiful symbol of the bond they are entering. There are many similar ways to present this image though. You can pour different types of sand into the same bowl, you can mix different color waters, whatever you can think of.
It is important that whatever you decide you check it with the venue first. While you may want to have your wedding in a traditional church they may have an issue with some of your modern ideas. I know my local church will only play songs that are a religious theme. Similarly, they would likely frown on any dancing down the aisle (which they see as a significant place in the presence of God). However many other churches and venues are very open to a modern approach and just want to make your day perfect. Talk through options with your venue and whoever is presiding over the wedding. Ensure you check with them early so that you are not forced to change things at a late stage. Remember this is your day and you should do whatever makes it special for you.
